Legendary Coach Thom Budge

Legendary high school football coach Thom Budge passed away yesterday at the age of 65.  Budge led the Bonneville Lakers for 31 seasons from 1975 to 2005, amassing the second most wins in Utah high school football history.  At the Laker helm, Budge won fourteen region championships and one state 4A title in 1980.

His success, however, is not the story.  He was a man of integrity, a man of loyalty, a man of honesty, a man of faith.  He will be remembered by those who played for him as unwavering, old-fashioned, disciplined, a leader.  Coach Budge was a fierce competitor, despite rarely raising his voice.  His mere presence commanded your respect.  Unassuming, he didn’t like the spotlight or the accolades.

Countless young men owe a great deal to this gentle giant.  More than a coach, he was a teacher.  Teacher of life’s lessons such as sacrifice, hard-work, perseverance, humility, and more. May his legacy continue to be felt by those in our football community.  He represented this game with honor, won the right way, left us having “Paid the Price” to better the lives of others.  Thank you Coach Thom Budge!