Stanford and San Jose State honored the late Bill Walsh on Saturday, September 15, 2007 when the two teams faced off at Stanford Stadium. The game, which was renamed "The Bill Walsh Legacy Game," is just one way in which both Universities honored the legendary coach. "A Tribute to Bill Walsh" included many activities and remembrances that recognized Walsh's contributions to both Stanford and San Jose State.
"We are very excited to honor our friend, mentor, and colleague, Bill Walsh," said Bob Bowlsby, the Jaquish & Kenninger Director of Athletics at Stanford. "Coach Walsh had a profoundly positive influence on sports in the Bay Area and across the nation. He also inspired a generation of coaches and athletes to achieve at the highest levels."
"Bill truly transcended the game of football. His style of coaching and play was revolutionary, but his principles of teaching are everlasting," said San Jose State Athletic Director Tom Bowen. "On behalf of San Jose State University, we are honored to be part of this very special dedication in celebration of Bill's tremendous legacy."
In addition to renaming the game in Walsh's honor, there was a moment of silence during pre-game festivities, followed by a video tribute. At halftime, Walsh's wife, Geri, and members of the Walsh family, in an on-field ceremony, joined Bowlsby and Bowen.
Both Stanford and San Jose State were wearing "BW" decals on their helmets throughout the 2007 year. Cardinal coaches were also wearing a "BW" patch on their shirts and Cardinal players had a "BW" patch on their game jerseys. San Jose State coaches had "BW" patch on their game shirts.
Stanford also honored Walsh with the Bill Walsh Leadership program and The Bill Walsh Award. The leadership program includes all aspects of Stanford's staff development program, a student-athlete mentorship program and an overall quality improvement program, all of which fall under the umbrella of the Bill Walsh Leadership Program.
