By Lauren Kirschman | McClatchy News Service
SEATTLE — Jim Lambright, who spent nearly four decades as a player, assistant coach and head coach for the University of Washington football team, died at the age of 77, his family confirmed Sunday.
Lambright was the Huskies’ defensive coordinator under head coach Don James from 1978 through 1992 and helped lead UW to the 1991 national championship. Lambright became the Huskies’ coach when James retired in 1993 and held that position until 1998. He compiled a 44-25-1 record during that time, winning a Pac-12 championship in 1995.
“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,” UW head coach Jimmy Lake said in a statement. “He was always supportive of the program that he loved so much. His impact on Husky football will not be forgotten.”
Lambright was named defensive coordinator before the 1978 season, helping UW win six Pac-8 and Pac-10 titles under James. When James retired before the start of the 1993 season, Lambright was immediately elevated to head coach. His teams went 7-4 in both 1993 and 1994 and then won a share of the Pac-10 title in 1995, going 7-4-1 overall and 6-1-1 in conference.
Lambright was born in Everett on April 26, 1942, and grew up in Snohomish County. A 1960 graduate of Everett High School, Lambright came to the UW to play for head coach Jim Owens. He lettered from 1962-1964, playing on UW’s 1963 team that won a conference title and went to the Rose Bowl. He earned All-Coast honors as a defensive end in 1964. Lambright also earned the Guy Flaherty Most Inspirational Award, UW football’s oldest and most prestigious team award.
“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,” UW athletic director Jennifer Cohen said in a statement.
“My love for the University of Washington was sparked during [Lambright’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.”
After graduating from UW, Lambright worked as an assistant coach at Fife High School and Shoreline Community College before joining Owens’ staff with the Huskies in 1969. He worked under Owens for six seasons before being retained when James was named the Huskies’ head coach in 1975.
Lambright’s family suggests donations to the University of Washington Medical Center or, in this time of need, any local charity or cause supporting efforts to suppress the COVID-19 crisis, including first responders, local hospitals and local businesses.
