[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 90 (Tuesday, June 16, 2009)]
[House]
[Page H6830]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF COACH JIM OWENS

  (Mr. DICKS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. DICKS. Mr. Speaker, today in Seattle, a memorial service is 
taking place for the University of Washington's legendary football 
coach, Jim Owens, who passed away on June 6, leaving a legacy that 
extends far beyond Husky Stadium where he coached for 18 years. In 
fact, that legacy extends here to the Nation's Capital because I was 
one of the many individuals he recruited, coached and counseled on and 
off the field, and we remained friends for nearly 50 years.
  He was a remarkable leader, assuming the job of head coach at the 
university at the age of 29. It was said that he brought a work ethic 
and a coaching style that would have intimidated a Marine Corps drill 
instructor. That was accurate. I can say that from personal experience. 
He had high expectations, and he could be tough. He once told me I was 
fine on defense as a linebacker, but I was the weakest weak guard on 
the team.
  Most of all, he was a real leader, and he was successful. Three years 
after arriving at the University of Washington, he produced a Rose Bowl 
championship team, defeating Wisconsin, 44-8, in the 1960 Rose Bowl. I 
was proud to play for him the next year when we repeated a Rose Bowl 
victory over Minnesota, 17-7.
  He was a great coach. Though he will be missed, his lessons will 
endure long beyond his death. Our prayers go out to the entire Owens 
family. They have lost a wonderful husband and father. His players will 
never forget him.

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