Glena Goranson is the loving wife of famous NFL coach Pete Carroll. She has been by his side for almost five decades. While her husband makes headlines on football fields, Glena prefers to stay away from the spotlight. She is a former volleyball player, a devoted mother of three children, and the quiet force behind one of football’s most successful coaches. Pete Carroll calls her “the angel of my life.”
Detailed Bio Table
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Glena Goranson Carroll |
| Birth Year | 1955 |
| Birthplace | San Francisco, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Parents | Dolores and Dean Goranson |
| Siblings | Two sisters (Greta and Carla) |
| Education | University of the Pacific |
| College Sport | Volleyball |
| Husband | Pete Carroll (married 1976) |
| Children | Brennan, Jaime, and Nate Carroll |
| Grandchildren | Seven |
| Known For | Wife of NFL coach Pete Carroll |
Early Life and Education
Glena Goranson grew up in San Francisco, California during the 1950s and 1960s. She was raised alongside her two sisters, Greta and Carla. Her parents, Dolores and Dean Goranson, taught their children to value sports and education.
Growing up in an active household helped Glena develop a love for athletics. She learned teamwork and discipline from a young age. These qualities stayed with her throughout her life.
Glena attended the University of the Pacific, where she played volleyball at a competitive level. She was a talented player who showed great skill on the court. Her time at university was important not just for her education but also for her personal life. It was here that she met the man who would become her lifelong partner.
How Glena Met Pete Carroll
Glena and Pete Carroll first crossed paths at the University of the Pacific. While Glena played volleyball, Pete was a football player. Both were student-athletes who shared a passion for sports and hard work.
Their connection grew stronger over time. They started dating while still in college. After several years together, the couple tied the knot in 1976. This was Pete’s second marriage. He was briefly married to Wendy Pearl from 1973 to 1975 before finding lasting love with Glena.
Since their wedding day, Glena has been Pete’s biggest supporter. She has stood by him through every coaching job, every victory, and every challenge.
Supporting Pete Carroll’s Career
Being married to an NFL coach is not easy. The job requires constant travel, long hours, and plenty of stress. Glena has handled all of this with grace.
Pete’s coaching journey started in the early 1980s. He worked with several teams, including the New York Jets and New England Patriots. Later, he built a powerhouse program at USC, winning two national championships. In 2010, he became head coach of the Seattle Seahawks.
Throughout all these moves, Glena stayed by Pete’s side. She created a stable home for their family. Her support allowed Pete to focus on his career without worrying about things at home.
One fun fact about Glena shows her caring nature. During Pete’s time at the University of Arkansas, she helped babysit for assistant coach Monte Kiffin. That baby grew up to be Lane Kiffin, who later became a well-known college football coach himself.
Children and Family Life
Glena and Pete have three children together: Brennan, Jaime, and Nate. All three have grown into successful adults.
Brennan Carroll followed his father into football coaching. He currently works as the offensive coordinator for the Arizona Wildcats. Before that, he was part of the Seahawks coaching staff.
Jaime Carroll chose a different path. She is a real estate professional and mindset coach. She also served as president of Compete to Create, a performance institute founded by her father.
Nate Carroll also works in football. He serves as the senior offensive assistant coach for the Seattle Seahawks. Like his brother, Nate has built a career in the sport his father loves.
The Carroll family continues to grow. Pete and Glena now have seven grandchildren. Family remains at the center of their lives.
Pete’s Emotional Tribute to Glena
In January 2024, Pete Carroll announced he would step down as Seahawks head coach after 14 seasons. During his press conference, he became emotional while talking about his wife.
“I’ve been blessed with, like, the rarest of best friends and mentor, loving partner, the angel in my life,” Pete said with tears in his eyes. “This is worth crying for. Glena, nobody would ever understand how significant… She’s been the angel of my life, and I owe you everything.”
These words showed the world just how important Glena has been to Pete’s success. In January 2025, Pete took a new job as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. Once again, Glena will be there to support him.
Private Life and Philanthropy
Glena prefers to keep her life private. She rarely gives interviews or appears in the media. This choice has helped her family maintain a normal life despite Pete’s fame.
However, Glena is active in charitable work. She and Pete support various causes that help young people and communities. Their foundation works to make a positive difference in society.
Glena’s style reflects her personality. She is known for her simple and elegant fashion choices. On game days, she often wears white outfits. Her understated approach matches her preference for staying out of the spotlight.
Conclusion
Glena Goranson may not seek the spotlight, but her impact on Pete Carroll’s life is huge. For almost fifty years, she has been his rock, his supporter, and his best friend. Together, they have built a beautiful family and shared countless memories. Glena’s story reminds us that behind every great leader, there is often a loving partner who makes everything possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long have Glena Goranson and Pete Carroll been married?
They got married in 1976. As of 2025, they have been together for nearly 49 years.
2. Where did Glena Goranson go to college?
She attended the University of the Pacific, where she played volleyball.
3. How many children do Glena and Pete Carroll have?
They have three children: Brennan, Jaime, and Nate Carroll.
4. What does Glena Goranson do for a living?
Glena keeps her professional life private. She is mainly known for supporting her husband’s career and being involved in family and charitable activities.
5. How many grandchildren does Glena Goranson have?
Glena and Pete Carroll have seven grandchildren together.
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