An Epochal Open Letter from Jimmy Rogers to Washington State Cougars, Fans, and the Cougar Community
Dear Washington State Cougars Family,
Today, I write to you as a coach, but also as a proud member of a community that has influenced me in ways I never could have imagined. This letter is from the bottom of my heart, expressing my heartfelt gratitude to Washington State University, dedicated Cougars fans, and the larger Cougar family for your love, trust, and steadfast support during my journey. It’s been nothing short of transformative.
From the moment I arrived onto campus and into the storied legacy of Washington State Athletics, I felt something powerful—a sense of solidarity, perseverance, and pride that permeates every hall, practice field, and game. That spirit has guided me through each stage of my coaching career and continues to motivate me every day.
Thank you, university leadership, sports department, and coaching colleagues, for believing in me. Your confidence and support have enabled me to develop, lead, and dream. You established a culture that values excellence while never sacrificing character or heart. That is the Cougar Way. You provided me the freedom to pursue my vision while always reminding me that the foundation of our success is our people—players, staff, and the devoted Cougar community that supports us.
To the players I’ve had the privilege of coaching, you are the foundation of all we do. You’ve entrusted me with your potential, dreams, and futures. You have taught me just as much as I have tried to teach you. Your tenacity, battle, and belief in one another fuel this program’s history, and it has been an honour to be a part of your adventures. The biggest reward has been seeing you grow—both on and off the pitch.
Thank you to our great fans and alumni for making every Martin Stadium game a memorable experience. Your enthusiasm, dedication, and voice in the stands mean everything to us. Whether it’s a blizzard in November or a bright September opener, you bring a palpable passion to the Palouse. You’ve made Pullman feel like home, and I carry your spirit with me whenever I put on Cougar colours.
And thank you to the entire Cougar community—from students and alumni to local families and lifetime fans—for welcoming me in and making me feel like one of your own. This community represents more than simply athletics. It represents tenacity, heart, and the refusal to give up even when the odds are stacked against us. It reflects all I want to be as a coach and a guy.
As I look forward to what comes next, I am filled with pride for where I’ve been. Washington State has been more than just a place to work; it has also served as a family, a mentor, and a home. I’ll always carry the Cougar spirit with me.
With thanks and Cougar pride,
Jimmy Rogers, Washington State Cougars