Ohio State Buckeyes Loses A Legend: Nancy Darsch

On November 2nd, it was sadly announced that former coach of Ohio State Nancy Darsch has passed away at the age of 68. She was battling Parkinson's disease. According to the Ohio State website, Nancy was legendary and was a two time olympic winner for the years 1984 and 1996. She was a woman that was tough, athletic, humble but also loving and encouraging, as many mourn the loss of her.

“Darsch began her collegiate coaching career in 1978 as she served as an assistant coach for the late great Pat Summitt at Tennessee. Alongside Summitt, Darsch helped the Lady Vols make five trips to the Final Four. In 1984, she was an assistant with Summitt for Team USA as it won the gold medal at the games in Los Angeles. She was also on Tara

VanDerveer’s staff during the 1996 Olympic games in Atlanta when that team reclaimed the gold medal in a dominating performance, winning all eight games by an average of nearly 30 points per game.” It was almost as if she was a good luck charm ! Her presence definitely set tone.

It’s safe to say that she set an amazing example for young women who are interested in sports as she coached some of the best female olympic participants and won twice herself. She shows that women can accomplish things as long as they are driven and focused.

As the news of the death of the legendary coach began to spread, others who knew her said some kind words on her behalf. "We are grateful for Nancy's leadership as a pioneer of this game," the Liberty said in a statement. "Her contributions to the advancement of both collegiate and professional women's basketball and her passion for the game will forever be felt."

"Nancy was a trailblazer, coach and mentor. I was lucky to have such a caring and kind coach," former Ohio State star Katie Smith said in a statement. "She loved what she did and the people she shared it with. Always had a smile on her face, a fun comment to make you laugh and a playful punch on the arm. She will be dearly missed. Rest easy, Nancy."

Nancy will be missed dearly, and was remembered by ESPN as a “trailblazer, pioneer, and promoter.” She was also the first coach to win a WNBA game, talk about making history! Her

legacy will live on.