The University of West Virginia received news today of the passing of beloved coach and West Virginia native, Bill Stewart. Stewart suffered an apparent heart attack while playing golf in the West Virginia Hospitality and Tourism Association annual event with former West Virginia Athletic Director Eddie Pastilong, according to multiple reports.
Stewart was rushed to the Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital in Weston where his family and friends received the tragic news.
Stewart took over as interim coach in 2008, replacing Rich Rodriguez. Stewart made an impact on the Mountaineer faithful, leading the team to victory over Oklahoma in the 2008 Sugar Bowl. West Virginia named Stewart the new head coach shortly after the game.
Stewart struggled in West Virginia football standards in the years to come. From 2008-2010, Stewart lead his team to three straight 9-4 seasons and a 1-2 record in bowl games. His lone bowl win came in 2008 in the Meineke Car Care Bowl.
Drama struck the West Virginia staff last year when it was announced that Dana Holgorsen would take over Offensive Coordinator duties and become head coach in 2012.
After rumors leaked that Stewart was planning to smear Holgorsen’s name, Stewart decided to resign before the 2011 season began.
The fans and members of the Mountaineer football are mourning the loss of one of their own. West Virginia’s anthem has been known as “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” Well Stewart does not have to worry anymore, that’s exactly where he went.
Photo Credit: Google.com
Discussion about this post