Former Mercer Island High School football coach honored in Bothell

For over 30 years, the Mercer Island High School football team was directed by head coach Dick Nicholl. He spent years in education, helping guide not only young football players, but students in general.

In honor of those contributions he made, Nicholl was inducted into the Wall of Honor at Pop Keeney Stadium on Aug. 16. The Northshore School District annually honors alumni, staff and volunteers from the community who have gone above and beyond.

Nicholl graduated from Bothell High School and played football for the University of Washington and Western Washington University.

George Selg, one of the co-founders of the event, said Nicholl was chosen for more than just his contribution to the sports world.

“Dick is someone we’re honoring, but beyond just sports, it’s Dick’s passion for youth and youth programs,” said Selg.

Nicholl will be honored during the ceremony for his work both on and off the football field.

“I’m just really happy they are honoring him,” said Gary Snyder, Nicholl’s former athletic director at Mercer Island High School.

The event began last year as a way to honor outstanding individuals who have made a difference in the community. But, Selg said, it’s also a call to action for youth, hoping to encourage them that they, too, could someday be on the wall.

Nicholl helped the Islanders to six league titles during his tenure and retired in 2007 with 177 wins. He was inducted into the Pacific Northwest Football Hall of Fame in 2009. He taught Spanish at Mercer Island High School for 34 years.

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