Washington football coaching legend Don James, 80, had two surgical procedures to treat “gastrointestinal issues,” according to a statement from the family released Thursday through the UW athletics department. He was said to be resting comfortably at Virginia Mason Medical Center after being admitted Monday.
Doctors believed the surgeries were successful, according to the release. The family issued the statement to stem speculation about James’ health.
James was the most successful coach in Washington’s modern era, compiling a record of 153-57-2 after transforming a moribund program. James quit in protest over sanctions from the Pac-10 Conference for rules violations, and did not resume coaching. The Huskies have yet to regain the success of the James era.
James was healthy enough two weeks ago to addreas the 2013 Huskies during training camp, something he has done for a number of years.