Pete Carroll—former Seahawks maestro and the new Las Vegas Raiders head coach—has a résumé NFL dreams are made of: a Super Bowl ring, multiple Pac-10 championships, and enough energy to outpace the Energizer Bunny. But behind this coaching genius is a woman who’s not just his biggest fan but the backbone of his legacy: His Wife

In a heartfelt January 10 press conference, where Carroll announced his transition to an advisory role for the Seahawks after 14 seasons, the 73-year-old football icon gave a shout-out to the MVP of his personal life: “Glena, nobody would ever understand how significant [you are]… She’s been the angel of my life, and I owe you everything.” Cue the collective NFL nation’s tears.

But who exactly is Glena Goranson? Let’s dive into her story, how she’s supported Pete through his gridiron rollercoaster, and why she might just be the Raiders’ new secret weapon in spirit.

Who Is Glena Goranson?

Born in San Francisco, California, in 1955, Glena Goranson isn’t just Pete Carroll’s better half; she’s the original playmaker in his life. Raised alongside two sisters, Greta and Carla, Glena attended the University of the Pacific, where her volleyball skills put her on the map. While Pete was busy tackling his early coaching dreams, Glena was spiking her way into his heart.

The couple first met at college, where they fell in love before getting married in 1976. Across four decades of shared life, they have raised three children together. They now have seven grandchildren, plus their careers experienced numerous successes and failures.

While Glena prefers to keep her career private, she actively functions as the person who maintains unity among the Carroll family. Whether it was supporting Pete through his early NFL struggles or celebrating his USC glory days, she’s been there for every touchdown and fumble.

Their bond? Rock-solid. As Pete himself said, “She’s been through all of the stuff that we’ve been through, and how important she is… Nobody gets it. She’s just been the angel in my life.”

How has Glena Goranson been the biggest supporter of her husband?

If Pete Carroll is the quarterback of their relationship, Glena Goranson is the ultimate offensive line—protecting, supporting, and paving the way for him to shine.

Pete’s coaching career hasn’t always been a smooth ride. From his early days with the New York Jets to his USC dynasty and eventual Super Bowl glory with the Seahawks, Glena has been his constant. When Pete brought his USC culture to Seattle, Glena was there, cheering on his vision to “celebrate people’s extraordinary uniqueness.”

Let’s talk about the Carroll family huddle. Pete and Glena have three kids—Brennan, Jaime, and Nate—who’ve followed their dad into sports and coaching. Brennan is the offensive coordinator for the Arizona Wildcats, and Nate serves as the senior offensive assistant for the Seahawks.

Jaime, the family’s only daughter, is making waves as a content developer and mindset coach. And guess who kept this powerhouse family grounded? Glena. During Pete’s farewell as Seahawks head coach, he became emotional reflecting on Glena’s unwavering support: “I’ve been blessed with the rarest of best friends… She’s been through everything.” Her belief in Pete has been as strong as the Seahawks’ famed Legion of Boom defense.

So, while Pete’s busy leading the Raiders’ locker room and making those signature sideline fist pumps, let’s not forget the woman who’s been by his side through it all. Glena Goranson isn’t just the wife of a coaching legend—she’s the heart of his legacy.

As Caroll once said, “This is worth crying for.” And honestly, Glena’s impact on his life and career deserves a standing ovation from every NFL fan. Here’s to the Carrolls—proof that behind every legendary coach is an even more legendary partner.