Seattle coach Lou Tice inspired many greats

Seattle native Lou Tice spent much of his life challenging others to make this a better world. He continued that mission until his death last Sunday at age 76.

Tice was a football coach in the early 1970s at Kennedy High School in Burien, Wash.

It was then he and wife Diane co-founded the Pacific Institute, a corporation specializing in positive messages and leadership development.

Based in West Seattle, they grew the company to the far reaches of the planet, working with private businesses and governments. Tice’s primary work, though, continued to be with athletes and coaches.

He became a mentor to former Washington football coach Jim Lambright, who later went to work for Tice. Current Husky coach Steve Sarkisian worked with Tice and wrote, “He served to motivate and bring out the best in others.”

Tice told me in a 2009 interview he wanted to change the “bullying” style of the old guard coaches like Woody Hayes.

“It takes a lot of courage to take the approach of treating somebody with dignity and respect, and high expectations, and still holding them accountable” Tice said. “So it’s not an easy switch for any of us.”

Years ago Tice invited coach Pete Carroll to his ranch in Eastern Washington where they developed a strong friendship. In 2002 they formed “A Better LA,” a non-profit foundation aimed at reducing violence among young people. A similar project started in Seattle last year.

Carroll said of Tice: “He’s helped me figure out my own approach and my philosophy. He’s helped people change their ways, their culture, their attitudes about things in all walks of life.”

Lou Tice was also an avid race-horse owner, going back the Longacres track in Renton. His thoroughbred, Assessment, was named Emerald Downs top horse in 2009.

A memorial service celebrating the life of Lou Tice will be held April 13 at 10 a.m. at St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Seattle.