LUBBOCK, TX (KCBD) – Former Red Raider head football coach Mike Leach was given the “Heart of a Champion Award” during the Oklahoma State game on Saturday.
The distinction was given by the American Heart Association and the Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards.
Coach Leach left a lasting impact on the game of college football and was known for his courage, fearlessness, and character.
Bailey Butler with the American Heart Association says that’s something rooted within Lubbock.
“The community rallies around Mike Leach. That will never, I think that will be a forever thing,” Development Director Bailey Butler said. “We cherish our memories with him. I think about growing up here. I think about The Pirate. I think about how exciting of a time it was, ’08 and Crabtree.”
Coach Leach’s daughter, Kimberly Betty, says it’s touching how much love the people of Lubbock have for her father.
“To know that the Lubbock community just embraces still so wholly…it means so much to me. It’s a place that I hold such fond memories. The smells of the stadium hold such fond memories,” Betty said.
Betty accepted the “Heart of a Champion Award” on her father’s behalf during halftime of Saturday’s game. The entire Leach family will be recognized at the Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards in Houston.
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