PULLMAN, Wash. – Spirits were high as Washington State University welcomed a new head football coach to the Cougar family on Tuesday. Kirby Moore was introduced at a packed event in Martin Stadium, marking a new chapter for WSU football.
Cougar legend Jack Thompson expressed his enthusiasm for Moore’s appointment.
“I like everything. I like his philosophy I like his young approach to it all,” said Thompson.
Thompson also appreciated Moore’s local connections.
“I’m excited I’m excited about the fact that he’s from Prosser he and his wife Kayla are from Prosser and Kayla’s grandparents live in the Palouse!” said Thompson.
Kayla’s grandparents, Bill and Bertha Paul, shared their excitement about the couple’s return to the Inland Northwest.
“I screamed when I heard and then started crying. But they were here within a couple days after we heard so that was awesome, we didn’t have a long wait – it’s been cool. Just the excitement of them coming back here and then getting a coach job it’s just great,” said Bill and Bertha Paul.
The couple mentioned one issue they now face.
“We need new Coug gear!” said Bill and Bertha Paul.
The event was filled with Cougar fans from various backgrounds, all eager to welcome Moore.
Trey Funk and Xander Piatt, WSU alumni, shared their thoughts on the new hire.
“I think it’s a great hire I’m personally a Yakima Valley native where Kirby’s from so I think that that’s great news for me and my family you know we’re really stoked when the announcement was made so excited for the next era of Coug football,” said Funk and Piatt.
Thompson is hopeful for stability after recent changes in coaching staff. “It’s time to step up and step out and be leaders in the Pac-12. And I’m just telling all the Cougs in Spokane we need you, we need to own the Inland Empire again,” said Thompson.
“GO COUGS!”
The excitement is palpable as the WSU community looks forward to the future under Moore’s leadership.
