Willingham's Head Was Worth $100K To Husky Booster

The Seattle Times breaks the story of just how diseased college sports fans have become. The newspaper got about 1,000 emails that Husky fans sent to University of Washington president Mark Emmert, athletic director Todd Turner, and coach Ty Willingham through a public records request.

At least 100 emails, say Times reporters Nick Perry, Bob Condotta, and Ken Armstrong, included threats of withholding financial support. But an email from Ed Hansen, founder of Frontier Bank and three-time mayor of Everett, took the cake:

By this letter I hereby pledge to contribute a minimum of $100,000 towards a law school scholarship within 90 days, conditioned upon the termination of Ty Willingham as football coach.

In addition, I hereby pledge a second $100,000 towards a law school scholarship within 90 days, conditioned upon the termination of Todd Turner as athletic director.

Also, I do not intend to contribute any further funds to the athletic department as long as these two gentlemen are employed by the University.

Emails of support came from Seahawk Shaun Alexander: "I want to tell you how pleased I am with the direction of the program and the character of the guys Ty has been bringing in...let him finish what he started."

And from former Seahawk Jeff Kemp: "This man has changed lives and the reputation of UW football player culture (of which there were too many sad embarrassments before). He is building a foundation, and winning will result."

And from former Washington athletic director Mike Lude: "Todd, Congratulations on standing tough. In my view you made the right decision. Ill Ligitamus Non Carberendum (Don't let the bastards wear you down) Warmest best wishes and a Merry Christmas!!!!!!!"

Turner was fired, Willingham was not. Hansen, who told reporters he never expected the email to go public, says he'll donate the $100,000 to the law school. So at least some good has come out of this. Ick.