Former Washington football coach Jim Lambright has died at the age of 77, the school announced Sunday.
The cause of death was not immediately known for Lambright, who played for the Huskies before later becoming an assistant and head coach.
“Coach Lambright was a legend at the UW, particularly when it came to playing the kind of physical, aggressive defense that his teams were known for,” Washington coach Jimmy Lake said. “He was always supportive of the program that he loved so much. His impact on Husky football will not be forgotten.”
Born in Everett, Wash., in 1942, Lambright lettered three seasons as a defensive end with Washington from 1962-64 and earned All-Coast honors in 1964.
He returned to the school in 1969 as part of Jim Owens’ coaching staff and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 1978 under Don James.
Lambright took over as head coach in 1993 and posted a 44-25-1 record in his six seasons at the helm. He guided the Huskies to a Pac-10 championship in 1995 and a win in the Aloha Bowl in 1997, beating Nick Saban’s Michigan State team in that game.
“I’m deeply saddened by the news of Coach Lambright’s passing. Coach Lambright is synonymous with Husky football and he gave so much to this program both as a player and coach,” Washington athletic director Jennifer Cohen said in a statement.
“My love for the University of Washington was sparked during Coach’s tenure on our football staff and I’m grateful for the impact he had on so many. I’d like to extend heartfelt condolences to his family, former players, teammates and coaches.”
