by Rose Broyles
SAN DIEGO-CALIFORNIA Friends, family, fans, players and coaches gathered at Viejas Arena on the San Diego State University campus to pay their respects and admiration to Don “Air” Coryell. He was the football coach who pioneered the “passing attack” offense that would be used in the NFL in years to come. Coach Coryell died on July 1, of a lengthy illness at Sharp Grossmont Hospital with his family by his side. He was 86 years old.
The memorial was led in procession by Pastor Miles McPherson, a former San Diego Charger along with guest speakers who included Hall of Famers John Madden, Dan Fouts and Joe Gibbs, Jim Hanifan, and Fred Dryer. All shared their fond memories and condolences to the Coryell family who were also in attendance.
John Madden sharing stories of Don Coryell with the audience. Photo by Rose Broyles
An emotional John Madden had to compose himself before beginning his eulogy as he talked about Coryell’s influence on his and his colleagues’ success, “You know, I’m sitting down there in front, and next to me is Joe Gibbs, and next to him is Dan Fouts, and the three of us are in the Hall of Fame because of Don Coryell,” Madden continued, ”There’s something missing.”
The crowd erupted in laughter as each speaker revealed Coryell’s wild antics behind the scenes.They recalled his crazy driving, his passionate outbursts during games in an out of the locker room as well as their admiration for his generosity and good natured spirit.
They celebrated the “mad scientist” who was their coach, their mentor and their dear friend.
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