Deseret News | Willie Cowden's legacy keeps on growing

Reader comments
Doug Robinson: Willie Cowden's legacy keeps on growing

Aaron | 9:27 a.m. May 20, 2009

favorite coach comment over the Brighton intercom "anyone that would like to "run, jump or throw things, come on out to track tryouts after school"

Camille Curto | 1:11 p.m. May 20, 2009

What great memories of Willie. He truly was one of a kind, honest, and 'real.' He made a huge impact on everyone he came in contact with.

Pat | 1:22 p.m. May 20, 2009

The article described Willie perfectly...we miss him a lot...His four kids would sure have made him proud!

Comments continue below

EG | 2:54 p.m. May 20, 2009

Great article on a great man! Aaron's comment was right on the money with Coach's announcement over the intercom for those interested to come out and "throw things" meet out on the track/football field. I was a football player who didn't really care much about track but I went out and "threw things" and had a great time! Coach Cowden taught us all so much about life through athletics and just by his example. I am a better person for having been on his track team. Thank you Coach Cowden or as we used to call him because of his beard "The Fury One"

Stan Olsen | 9:17 p.m. May 20, 2009

A well deserved tribute to a great track coach and a great person.Thanks to Doug Robinson for reminding us of the real heroes in life and in sports.

Mike | 9:57 p.m. May 20, 2009

Coach Cowden's impact on my life has stretched over many years and I am grateful that I was able to be coached and taught by him. I appreciate the article about a person person who was truly amazing.

Dave McCallister MM | 10:31 p.m. May 20, 2009

Now an educator myself, I often express things I learned from coach Cowden to my students. Many of his teachings have become integral parts of my teaching philosophy and practice, and will continue to influence my teaching. The three years I spent under his watch gave me some of my most valued lessons and memories. Bill's emphasis on academics first should be an example to coaches and students everywhere.

DRLL | 8:39 a.m. May 21, 2009

Thanks for the wonderful article about Coach Cowden and his legacy. He bettered the lives of many students and athletes and Brighton High, and he always stood up for the principles he believed in. We are so glad that so many people have reached out to help his family and to let his kids know what kind of man he was. "Yifter is still running."

Tom | 9:58 a.m. May 21, 2009

Coach Cowden had an endless supply of cryptic motivational mantras he drilled into his athletes. He would recite my favorite the day before a big race: "The hay is in the barn."

The way he lived his life, Coach Cowden always kept his barn full.

Richard Olsen | 9:58 a.m. May 21, 2009

Thanks to Doug Robinson for the outstanding article about Willie. I think you captured his energy and legacy of dedication, courage, intelligence, and fun, amply carried on by his wonderful wife and children and former students.

Stephen | 4:16 p.m. May 21, 2009

This is truly an excellent article. The only thing that isn't true is that he ran high school track. I know this for a fact because I am his brother and the only sport he played in high school was golf.

Tia | 9:47 a.m. May 22, 2009

I love you Cowden's! You are an amazing family and I look up to you guys so much.

Rob Colledge | 3:21 p.m. May 24, 2009

There's not a week that goes by that I don't think of Bill. He was my 8th grade English teacher in the 70's and one of our basketball coaches. One of the most important influences in my life, a beautiful person. Glad I tripped over this article.

Becky Cowden | 12:00 p.m. May 25, 2009

Doug Robinson caught the essence of Willie for sure. It has been wonderful for the kids and me to read these comments and receive phone calls about this article.
The Eagle Scout project by Jake and Matt Cowden mentioned in the article will be held in downtown Holladay at 8am on Saturday, July 11. This year we are combining it with the annual Willie Walk and 5K Run. We are putting the information on common running web pages or you can email rebecca cowden at gmail and we'll send you an electronic flyer.
Thanks to Doug and all of you for your memories and kind words. The kids are interested and pleased that their dad is remembered as someone who influenced people for good and made a difference.

Alan Cunningham | 2:52 p.m. May 26, 2009

These are the type of columns that Doug excells at and should continue to write. Forget the negative stereotypes about overpaid and self-centered athletes, their coaches and owners.

Kevin | 8:42 p.m. June 9, 2009

I never met Willie, but I ran in the wake of those who had been touched by his influence. I heard many great things, and was influenced indirectly by his council and wisdom (running and otherwise). It was a great honor that I had to help host the Willie Walk in the past and I will be at the race this year!

e brooks | 5:40 a.m. June 10, 2009

my association w/ Willie Cowden was mostly a passing one too. even so, he's been a great positive influence on my life. his example gives me inspiration and courage, as a runner and teacher. thanks for remembering him here!

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