Saturday, June 05, 2010

Email announcement of John Wooden's death by UCLA Chancellor

As you may know the greatest UCLA coach, John Wooden, passed away on Friday. As a UCLA alma mater, Mr. Wooden will be missed. I received this email from the UCLA Chacellor late Friday:


Subject: Coach John Wooden
From: "Chancellor Gene Block"
Date: Fri, June 4, 2010 11:59 pm
To: ******@******.com
Priority: Normal


To the Bruin Family:


With the passing of John Wooden, we have lost a true giant and a gentleman, an
individual who was perhaps more closely identified with UCLA than any other person
in our university's history. Coach Wooden was an unparalleled motivator and an
inspiration to people throughout the world. Those of us who were fortunate enough to
meet him will forever be touched by his unfailing wisdom and generous spirit.


Coach Wooden's record of hundreds of victories and 10 national titles established a
gold standard of achievement in college athletics. Both on the court and off, he was
a teacher, role model and mentor who guided his players and generations of UCLA
coaches and student-athletes to become champions in life. His lasting influence has
extended far beyond the campus to include leaders in academia, business and
government.


The renowned Wooden Pyramid of Success-a copy of which hangs in my office-encourages
us all to value cooperation, loyalty and team spirit. The Pyramid remains one of the
most recognized blueprints for competitive excellence, in any pursuit.


Coach Wooden and his beloved wife, Nell, were treasured members of the UCLA family,
and the Nell and John Wooden Court at Pauley Pavilion is a lasting testament to
their place in our hearts.


John Wooden's remarkable legacy will stand forever at UCLA. Today, as we mourn his
loss, we also extend our deepest sympathy to his daughter, Nan, his son, James, and
his entire family.


The university flag in front of Pauley Pavilion will be lowered to half-staff, and a
public memorial is being planned. Please visit the UCLA homepage
(http://www.UCLAlumni.net/UCLAhome?email=K6EH) for further information, as well as
links to news articles and remembrances of Coach Wooden.


Sincerely,


Gene D. Block
Chancellor

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