The Washington State Cougars football program is built on a foundation of resilience, dedication, and community. Over the years, the Cougars have faced tragic losses—of beloved coaches, promising athletes, and dedicated fans. As the team looks toward the future, it also takes time to honor those who have left a lasting impact on the program and its people.
Mike Leach: The Architect of Cougar Football’s Reviva
Few figures in college football were as influential as Mike Leach, who led Washington State from 2012 to 2019. Known for his unfiltered personality and brilliant football mind, Leach revolutionized the Cougars’ offense with his “Air Raid” system, producing some of the most prolific passing attacks in school history.
Under Leach’s leadership, WSU went from a struggling program to a perennial contender, appearing in six bowl games during his tenure. His 2018 squad set a school record with 11 wins, capped off by a victory in the Alamo Bowl. He coached and developed star quarterbacks like Gardner Minshew, who went on to play in the NFL, and his influence extended far beyond the field—mentoring players and leaving a legacy of determination and innovation.
Leach passed away on December 12, 2022, due to complications from a heart condition. His death sent shockwaves through the college football world, with former players, fellow coaches, and fans paying tribute to his unique personality, intellect, and impact on the game. Washington State honored Leach with a moment of silence, special helmet decals, and a dedication to carrying forward the culture he helped establish. His legacy remains deeply embedded in Cougar football.
Tyler Hilinski: A Tragic Loss That Sparked Change
One of the most heartbreaking losses in Washington State history was the death of Tyler Hilinski. A talented quarterback with a bright future, Hilinski was expected to be the face of the program after showing tremendous potential in 2017. He led the Cougars to a thrilling triple-overtime victory against Boise State, demonstrating his leadership and toughness.
However, in January 2018, just weeks after the Cougars’ bowl game, Hilinski was found dead from an apparent suicide. The devastating news shook the WSU community to its core. It was later revealed that Hilinski had chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease linked to repeated head trauma. His family and teammates were left searching for answers, and his death became a rallying point for greater mental health awareness in college athletics.
In the wake of his passing, Hilinski’s parents founded Hilinski’s Hope, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting mental health awareness in student-athletes. The foundation has helped start conversations about mental health, offering support programs at various colleges across the country.
Washington State has continued to honor Hilinski in numerous ways:
- The team wore his No. 3 jersey in a game the following season.
- The annual “Hilinski’s Hope Game” raises awareness for mental health in sports.
- Players and fans continue to remember his bright personality, leadership, and love for the game.
Hilinski’s passing was a tragic reminder that mental health matters just as much as physical health, and his legacy continues to inspire change in college athletics.
Zion Bischoff: A Young Fan Gone Too Soon
While coaches and players form the backbone of a football program, the passion of the fans is what truly makes it special. Zion Bischoff, a 13-year-old WSU fan, embodied that passion. A lifelong Cougar supporter from Pullman, Washington, Zion dreamed of one day playing for the team he adored.
Tragically, in November 2024, Zion lost his life in a car accident near Rosalia, Washington. His passing deeply impacted the local community, as he was known for his love of football, his kindness, and his unwavering support for WSU.
To honor Zion, the Washington State Cougars wore “ZB” patches on their jerseys during a game that month, ensuring his spirit was present on the field. The tribute was not just about a single game; it was a reflection of how Cougar football is more than just a team—it is a family.
A Lasting Legacy
These losses serve as reminders of the deep connections that football fosters—between coaches, players, and fans. The Washington State Cougars continue to carry forward the legacies of those they have lost by playing with heart, perseverance, and dedication.
- Mike Leach’s impact will be felt in every pass thrown in the Air Raid system.
- Tyler Hilinski’s memory will continue to fuel conversations about mental health and well-being.
- Zion Bischoff’s spirit will live on in every young fan who dreams of wearing the Cougar uniform.
Football is more than just a game—it is a shared experience, a bond that lasts beyond wins and losses. As WSU moves into the future, it does so with a deep sense of gratitude and remembrance for those who helped shape its history.
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