Bill Tindall : Father, Husband, Coach, Legend
Every once in a while you meet someone who quite literally changes your life. In my life, one of those people was Bill Tindall, the incredible coach and mentor who brought me to the University of Washington in 1990, not just because he saw a 17 year old with a glimmer of talent and a dream of playing golf at the next level, but because he saw a young man he could help shape and develop for the future. Bill recruited me my senior year of High School in Palm Springs, CA and I was fortunate enough to have him as my college coach at the University of Washington for 2 years. He challenged me, tested me constantly and pushed me to improve - mostly because I needed it. Good coaches know the importance of tailoring the message for the individual, and in our short time together Bill recognized my strengths, weaknesses, and my opportunities for growth. It's Coach T (or Billy T as we liked to call him) that I have to thank for helping me find my way into the clothing business after college, for reinforcing the values of 'proving it everyday', and that only thru hard work and commitment can you hope to achieve the results your after. These principles I carry with me everyday and they continue to shape me into the person I am. Thank you Bill, I'm beyond appreciative of the effort and support you gave to each of us along the way ... you will missed, but never forgotten. - Scott Morrison
Bill Tindall passed away on December 15, and both Bob and I thought it was worth sharing an excerpt about Bill, written by our friend Alan Murry, currently the Head Coach at the University of Washington Men's Golf Team:
"Bill is one of the most popular and beloved people in golf, especially in the Northwest. He leaves behind a legacy and career in golf that will be unparalleled. Golf has an uncanny ability to attract amazing human beings to it, that love the game and all it stands for. Bill Tindall was certainly an amazing human being.
Bill coached at the University of Washington from 1984 until 1992. He was the first Husky Men’s Golf Coach to earn Pac-10 Coach of the Year in 1988. Bill was renowned for developing people’s skills, their character and professionalism throughout his time in golf.
Bill served as the Head Professional at Broadmoor Golf Club for 22 years, before moving to Aldarra Golf Club as it was being established. Bill also was the Director of Golf at Tumble Creek Golf Club in Suncadia, amongst others before returning for a final stint at Aldarra when he was 70.
Bill was a tremendous player and played in 10 USGA Championships, including winning the US Junior Championship in 1960, playing in the famous US Open - the Massacre at Winged Foot and making the cut in 3 appearances at the Senior US Open Championship. Bill played on the PGA Tour for a season also competing in over 30 tournaments.
Bill golfed for the Huskies from 1963-65 and was part of the 1963 Conference Championship winning team. A true Husky Legend in every sense of the word.
Anyone that was fortunate enough to spend any time with Bill will remember him as one of the most affable, kind-hearted, warm person you could ever want to meet. He was a true joy to be around."
Our thought and prayers are with his wife, Linda, his kids and their families and friends at this difficult time. A proud Husky that had a great impact on all of us, whether you knew him, worked with him, played for him as a Husky or with him in a tournament or for a casual game. Golf and humanity has lost one of its greatest ambassadors.
Thank you for the great example you set for us all on how to treat people with compassion, humility and kindness."