Doba back on job at WSU after wife’s death

PULLMAN – His boss offered him a leave of absence and his staff had been prepared to replace him at Pac-10 meetings.

But Bill Doba is already back at work – and has been for more than a week.

The Washington State University head football coach’s wife of 43 years, Judy, died April 21, and despite the suggestions from those around him, Doba opted to return to the WSU football office a week later.

“I threw it out there,” athletic director Jim Sterk said of his offer to take time off. ” ‘You’ve got a veteran staff. These are people who (can do the job).’ … But I think the job is good from that standpoint. He can dive right back into it. He’s got 125 little kids to keep track of and nine coaches.”

Doba traveled to Phoenix for Pac-10 coaches meetings early this week, and was back in the office again by the time the week was through.

“It’s good to be back into things,” he said Friday after viewing film in his office. “It’s not a pleasant thing to do. She was great.”

The Doba family kept matters regarding Judy’s health private during her four-year struggle with cancer.

Since returning to work, however, people in the athletic department have observed Doba to be upbeat and enthusiastic on the job.

“It’s just a tough situation for him,” Sterk said. “But both of them – Judy even more than Bill, I think – were adamant about him working. I think he feels that way, and as she said, ‘You’re in it for the long term.’ “

Prior to his wife’s death, Doba had mentioned in conversation with colleagues that he would probably throw himself into coaching completely in the event of her death. With the willing assistance of those around him, Doba appears to be doing just that.

“I think he feels supported, and he’s told me that, that it’s a great place to work and live,” Sterk said. “Also, he felt supported when the death occurred. That’s the kind of community (it is).”