Rick Bowers
Inducted in 2009

Warden High School 1980-present
Warden Middle School 1976-1980

Rick Bowers grew up in Bellingham and wrestled at BHS for Hall of Fame coach George Yonlick. After graduating from Western Washington University, Bowers moved to Warden in 1976 and coached at the middle school for three years. In 1980 Rick became the head coach at Warden High School, a position he continues to hold today. Over the past 29 years Bowers has developed Warden into a state power in the A/B division. The Cougars have a current record of 26 undefeated first-place league finishes, 17 district championships and Bowers won his 478th dual victory this past season. Warden has won eight Dream Dual championships.

In 1983 Warden became the first “B” team to win the A/B state title. Six more state championships have followed along with 17 other top-ten finishes including four runner-up trophies. The Cougars set a state record in 2004 when they scored 237 points at the state tournament. Bowers has coached 145 state placers which includes 25 champions and 22 finalists.

Bowers has been selected as the state Coach of the Year four times and was the NFHS Sectional Coach of the Year. Bowers has made wrestling more than a sport in Warden, it is an extended family throughout the community. Anne, his wife of 38 years, is the wrestling cheer coach. Their two sons wrestled and two daughters cheered for the cougars. They have four grandchildren.

Nominated by Valerie Hernandez and Brent Cox, Warden HS