Mississippi State University football head coach Mike Leach passed away on Monday following complications from a heart condition, the university announced.
The university said in a statement, "Mike was a giving and attentive husband, father and grandfather. He was able to participate in organ donation at UMMC as a final act of charity. We are supported and uplifted by the outpouring of love and prayers from family, friends, Mississippi State University, the hospital staff, and football fans around the world. Thank you for sharing in the joy of our beloved husband and father's life."
While the college football world mourns the loss of the coach affectionately known as "The Pirate," the coaches and athletics directors at Alabama and Auburn shared messages honoring Leach as a coach and person.
Alabama football head coach Nick Saban called Leach a friend who "always" made him smile.
He said, "Mike Leach was a friend, and we are deeply saddened by his unexpected passing. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Mike over the last several years. I never knew quite where our conversations were going but they always made me smile. He was an offensive innovator who always did things his way and was admired for it. His teams were well-coached and extremely challenging to defend. They played with poise and toughness, which is a credit to his leadership. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Sharon, their children and the entire Mississippi State family."
Greg Byrne, the athletic director at Alabama, described Leach as "one-of-a-kind."
First met Coach Leach over 20 years ago. Both having grown up in the Northwest, we talked about the beauty of Big Sky Country. Later spent a day w/him in Key West where he showed me around. He cared about people and made you think. A one-of-a-kind man. We will miss you, Mike.🙏 https://t.co/l4oSzA1MTC
— Greg Byrne (@Greg_Byrne) December 13, 2022
Auburn put up a memorial for Leach in their football facility, and associate head football coach Carnell "Cadillac" Williams said he was praying for "peace and comfort" for the Leach family.
Auburn honoring the memory of Mike Leach in new football facility. pic.twitter.com/ZAyG5cQg7D
— Brian Stultz (@brianjstultz) December 13, 2022
Our prayers are with the Leach family and the entire Mississippi State community. pic.twitter.com/PFtyToRUHz
— Hugh Freeze (@CoachHughFreeze) December 13, 2022
John Cohen, Auburn's athletic director who recently came over from Mississippi State and worked with Leach, provided a heartfelt message regarding his former employee, saying he "made the world a better place."
My friend Mike Leach…a pioneer, intellectual giant, provocateur and fearless warrior.
— John Cohen (@JohnCohenAD) December 13, 2022
A great man who impacted so many lives, including my own. Sharon, the entire Leach family, and MSU are in our hearts and prayers.
Rest In Peace Mike. You made the world a better place. pic.twitter.com/6jWAP8Uip4
Auburn basketball head coach Bruce Pearl took to Twitter to remember Leach.
Condolences to the entire Bulldog Family and the College Football World. Coach was one of the very best to ever coach the game and he made a difference in the lives of so many, particularly his players and family. Another reminder for us all to do the best we can, while we can. https://t.co/qarhtpdsVF
— Bruce Pearl (@coachbrucepearl) December 13, 2022
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email trent.baker@1819news.com.
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