Spike Dykes
Spike Dykes
Full Name and Common Aliases
Spike Dykes' full name was James Douglas Dykes Sr., but he is commonly known as "Spike" to his fans and colleagues.
Birth and Death Dates
Spike Dykes was born on February 26, 1946. Unfortunately, we do not have a recorded date of death for him.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Spike Dykes was an American football player and coach, best known for his tenure as the head football coach at Texas Tech University from 1999 to 2002.
Early Life and Background
James Douglas Dykes Sr. was born in Littlefield, Texas, on February 26, 1946. Growing up in rural West Texas, Spike developed a passion for sports from an early age. He played high school football at Littlefield High School before attending Abilene Christian University (ACU) on a scholarship.
At ACU, Dykes was an All-American defensive tackle and graduated with a degree in physical education. After college, he began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at the University of Texas-El Paso (UTEP). Over the next few decades, Spike held various coaching positions, including stints at UTEP, Wichita State, and New Mexico.
Major Accomplishments
Spike Dykes' most notable achievement is probably his tenure as head football coach at Texas Tech University. During his four-year stint from 1999 to 2002, the team showed remarkable improvement, finishing with a winning record in three of those seasons. Before taking over at Texas Tech, Spike had also coached at UTEP and New Mexico.
Notable Works or Actions
One notable aspect of Spike Dykes' coaching career is his emphasis on developing young players. He was known for his hands-on approach to the game, often working closely with his athletes to improve their skills. This dedication earned him respect from both players and colleagues alike.
Another significant contribution Spike made during his tenure at Texas Tech was establishing a strong recruiting presence in West Texas and the surrounding areas. By focusing on local talent, he helped build a loyal fan base and laid the groundwork for future program success.
Impact and Legacy
Spike Dykes' impact on college football extends beyond his coaching record. He inspired countless young athletes to pursue their passion for the sport, leaving behind a legacy that continues to be felt today.
The lessons Spike taught on and off the field are still remembered by those who played under him or interacted with him during his career. His ability to connect with players from diverse backgrounds helped build a sense of unity within the team.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Spike Dykes is widely quoted and remembered for his down-to-earth, old-school approach to coaching. He was known for being straightforward and honest in his assessments, often sharing words of wisdom that transcended the sport itself.
Colleagues have praised Spike's dedication to developing players and building strong relationships within the team. These traits not only earned him respect from peers but also contributed significantly to his enduring popularity among fans.
The quotes attributed to Spike Dykes reflect a man who prioritized values such as hard work, teamwork, and perseverance. His legacy serves as a reminder of the lasting impact one person can have on others through dedication and passion for their craft.
Quotes by Spike Dykes
He and I will be at the game, but no, we won't be sitting on same side of the field, ... And besides my son, Sonny, is the co-offensive coordinator/wide receivers coach at Texas Tech.
We don't need to get all sideways on this incorporation deal -- we don't need to rush into anything.
With all due respect, it's not like beating TCU, ... It's like Boston College beating Notre Dame or Michigan State beating Michigan. The Texas game is what everything is gauged by here in the state. It's the biggest game for Texas Tech. It's our chance to beat the big boys, to show that the little old college in western Texas can play some football too.
I think he's popular in the coaching community because he is different, ... You've got a guy here who's not afraid to do what he wants and doesn't care what anybody thinks. I think sometimes they think he's crazy, but crazy like a fox.
It has been a long time coming. But a lot of schools can say that, a lot of great football schools. Not many get a chance to do this. You can have a great team and be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Look at Auburn last year.
He'll look at a player's demeanor on film and decide what the player had for dinner and how he's feeling and what his girlfriend told him last night,