Legendary manager Dick Cullen served as a coach for both boys and girls soccer teams at Mead High School from 1985 to 1995. His tenure marked a stretch of immense dominance on the pitch across the Spokane region and beyond. During Cullen’s head coaching career, from the fall of 1984 to the spring of 1996, the Panthers of Mead High School soccer teams collectively won over 400 games, owning the eastern region of the state throughout the regular season.

When it came to the postseason, Cullen’s teams won 11 consecutive Greater Spokane League (GSL) championships, totaling 22 League Championships across both boys and girls soccer. His squads qualified for the WIAA State Soccer Tournament 20 times, finishing in second place on 12 occasions. Cullen also helped capture one State Championship, leading the girls program to the top of the podium in the fall of 1993.

Throughout his tenure, Cullen was recognized with a variety of GSL Coach of the Year honors, demonstrating his exceptional leadership and coaching skills. In 1993, following his championship with the girls program, he was honored as the Inland Empire Junior Coach of the Year, highlighting his immeasurable impact on all levels of junior sports.

After he finished coaching, Cullen remained a major contributor to Mead athletics, taking his talents to more administrative pastures. In 2012, he received the prestigious WIAA District 8 Athletic Director of the Year award, underscoring his contributions to athletics beyond coaching. With Cullen as its athletic director, Mead High School’s programs earned 12 GSL All-Sports trophies and seven 4A All-Sports Awards. They also took home four consecutive 4A Scholastic Cups. During this time, Cullen also served as the director of coordination for both girls and boys soccer in the Greater Spokane League.

Other colleagues and observers in Washington state athletics have noted Dick Cullen’s strong advocacy for his athletes and coaches. GSL secretary and WIAA District 8 representative Herbert T. Rotchford commended Cullen’s daily demonstration of passion, care, authenticity, and equity. Former Ferris High School soccer coach Robin Crain also had glowing praise for his former opponent.

“Dick’s teams would always be prepared, and his players would go the extra mile for their coach,” Crain said. “Dick was always gracious and considerate of his opponents in both victory and even the very rare defeat.”