VANDALS
UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO
THE AKEY FAMILY Daniel, Molly, Robb, Jack
Akey recognizes the passion not only the players but boosters, alums and friends have for the Vandal athletic programs. He’s responded in kind. “People are very passionate about this program,” Akey said. “When they see me and my staff are equally passionate about the program, they will respect that. “I’m committed to being here and I’m excited about what we can do. I didn’t take this job to be someplace else. I took this job to be the head coach at the University of Idaho.” Akey spent 10 during the summer of 2009 visiting with U.S. troops in Afghanistan. It left a lasting impression on him and today he serves as co-chair of the University of Idaho’s Operation Education – a program that provides educational opportunity to veterans. During his journey to a Division I head job, Akey has traveled hundreds of miles. The distance between the last few was only eight miles. He arrived at Washington State University as the defensive line coach in 1999 and fell in love with the area. When he was given the added responsibility of defensive coordinator for the Cougars in 2003, Akey came to appreciate the many positive aspects of the Palouse. “I’ve been up here nine years, and I think it’s the perfect place to build a family,” said Akey-. “I also think it’s the perfect place to build a family of a football team. We have the ability to eliminate the distractions of the city, so when we bring players in here they can focus on what’s important to them and that’s getting their degree and being the best player they can be.”
PERSEVERE 54
FOOTBALL 2010