Western Washington head coach Dominguez overcame life-threatening heart ailments, built successful coaching career
Tony Dominguez lay bedridden for two months at Seattle Children鈥檚 Hospital. At 14 years old, he was diagnosed with a rheumatic heart condition. At one point, doctors gave him 24 hours to live.
Twenty-six years later, Dominguez walks into the Cameron Indoor Stadium as the head coach of Western Washington University for a preseason scrimmage against Duke.
Dominguez鈥檚 heart condition prevented him from playing basketball, but it didn鈥檛 stop him from finding success in coaching it. Dominguez spent 17 years as an assistant coach at 草榴社区 before being named head coach this season. He considered stepping down after last season, but just like when he persevered with his health, his determination and persistence was rewarded.