Seattle Pacific University Athletics

During a span of five decades, he gained a unique view of Seattle Pacific. Moreover, Dr. Wes Lingren used his 360-degree perspective as an athlete, coach and administrator in quietly shaping the future of Falcon athletics.

Lingren’s association with the Falcon program began in 1950 with a two-year hitch to play varsity basketball and tennis. However, his greatest contributions came upon his return to campus in 1962. He joined the faculty as a chemistry professor, yet also poured his energies into coaching tennis. His final two men’s teams each placed among the top seven in the nation and produced a charter Falcon Legend in Bob Thompson.

As the NCAA faculty athletic representative for 25 years, Lingren was a gracious and respected ambassador for athletics on campus. During a pivotal period in the development of intercollegiate sports, he helped set the course for the addition of women’s varsity teams and presented the case for upgrading and expanding facilities.

Since retiring as a professor emeritus in 1997, Lingren has begun researching the history of SPU athletics, volunteering for the Alumni Office and the Athletic Department, and playing doubles when he and his wife, Merrilyn, are not away from their Bellevue home.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS (1963-97)

• Two men's tennis teams finished among the nation's top seven.

• Interim athletic director.