Bill Doba, Former Washington State Football Coach, Dies at 85

William Anthony Doba, a celebrated figure in Pacific Northwest college football who served as the Head Coach of the Washington State Cougars from 2003 to 2007, died on August 28, 2026, at the age of 85. His passing was confirmed by the university following a career that spanned over four decades in high school and collegiate athletics Former Pac-10 coach of the year Bill Doba dies at 85.

Early Life and Education

William Anthony Doba was born on September 7, 1940, in South Bend, Indiana, and raised in New Carlisle Bill Doba - Wikipedia. He graduated from New Carlisle High School in 1958 before attending Ball State College, where he played as a halfback and defensive back. His playing career was ultimately cut short by hip injuries, leading him to pursue coaching. He later earned a master’s degree in physical education from Western Michigan University Bill Doba - Wikipedia.

Coaching Career and Accomplishments

Doba began his coaching journey in the Indiana high school ranks, serving as an assistant at Goshen High School and later as Head Coach at Angola, Goshen, and Mishawaka high schools. He led Mishawaka to the big school state championship game in 1974 DOBA, BILL - IFCA HOF. In 1977, he moved to the collegiate level, serving as an assistant at Indiana University under Lee Corso, followed by coaching roles at Purdue University and The Citadel Bill Doba - Wikipedia.

In 1989, Doba joined the staff at Washington State University (WSU) under Mike Price. Over 19 seasons in Pullman, he rose from linebackers coach to Defensive Coordinator, where he was credited with architecting the formidable "Palouse Posse" defense. Following Price's departure, Doba was named Head Coach in 2003. In his inaugural season, he led the Cougars to a 10–3 record and a victory over Texas in the Holiday Bowl, resulting in a No. 9 national ranking and earning him the Pac-10 Coach of the Year award True Cougar legend; Former WSU football players react to death of beloved coach Bill Doba.

Personal Life and Legacy

Doba was known for his deep affection for his players and the Pullman community. He was preceded in death by his wife, Judy, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2006. He is survived by his three children: Scott, Kristen, and Beth Former WSU football coach Bill Doba dies at 85-years-old. Doba finished his head coaching career with a 30–29 record, including three Apple Cup victories over rival Washington Former Washington State Football coach Bill Doba dies at 85. He remains one of the most respected figures in WSU history, remembered for his defensive brilliance and his role in the program's most successful era.