Glena Goranson is best known as the longtime partner of legendary NFL coach Pete Carroll. Their marriage began in the mid-1970s, long before Pete’s career reached national fame. Over the years, Glena has stood beside him as his most trusted support, guiding their family through the highs and lows of football. This story explores her early life, their marriage, their three children, and the impact she had on Pete’s life and career.
Quick Bio Table of Glena Goranson
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Glena Goranson (also known as Glena Carroll) |
| Birth Year | 1955 |
| Birth Place | San Francisco, California |
| Nationality | American |
| Age (2024) | ~69 years old |
| Education | University of the Pacific |
| Sports Background | Volleyball player at the University of the Pacific |
| Marriage | Married Pete Carroll in 1976 |
| Children | Brennan Carroll, Jaime Carroll, Nate Carroll |
| Pete Carroll Daughter | Jaime Carroll, former USC volleyball player, content developer |
| Grandchildren | 7 (reported) |
| Known For | Wife of NFL coach Pete Carroll, lifelong supporter, strong family role |
| Residence | United States |
Early Life of Glena Goranson
Glena Goranson was born in 1955 in San Francisco, California. She grew up in a supportive home where education and sports played a key role. During her youth, she showed great interest in athletics. At the University of the Pacific, she became a student-athlete and joined the women’s volleyball team. This passion for sports would later connect her to Pete Carroll, who was also a student at the same school.
Glena’s years at Pacific shaped her values of teamwork, dedication, and resilience. These traits became central to her life as she transitioned from student life to becoming the wife of a rising football coach.
How Glena Met Pete Carroll
The love story of Glena Goranson and Pete Carroll began on the college campus. Pete was a football player, full of energy and ambition, while Glena was a volleyball athlete admired for her calm yet determined personality. Their shared interest in sports made them close, and soon they began dating.
After several years of a strong relationship, Glena Goranson and Pete tied the knot in 1976. This marriage marked the beginning of what would become one of the longest and most steady unions in the NFL world.
Pete Carroll and Wife: A Marriage Built on Trust
The Pete Carroll marriage has lasted for almost five decades, a rare achievement in professional sports. As Pete moved through jobs at Arkansas, Iowa State, Ohio State, USC, and eventually the NFL, Glena was always there. She took on the role of not only wife but also caretaker of their family.
At a 2024 press conference, Pete Carroll called Glena Goranson “the angel of my life.” His words reflected the love and respect he has carried for her throughout the years. Their bond is often described as one of deep loyalty, patience, and partnership.
Pete Carroll Family: Children of Glena and Pete
The Pete Carroll family is large and sports-oriented. Together, Glena Goranson and Pete raised three children:
- Brennan Carroll – Born in 1979, he followed his father’s path into coaching. Brennan worked as a graduate assistant at USC before moving into professional coaching. Today, he is the offensive coordinator at the University of Arizona.
- Jaime (Jamie) Carroll – Born in 1982, she is the only Pete Carroll daughter. Like her mother, Jaime played volleyball at USC. Later, she worked with Compete to Create, a performance institute co-founded by her father, and now contributes as a content developer at Amplify Voice.
- Nate Carroll – Born in 1987, Nate grew into football coaching as well. He became a senior offensive assistant with the Seattle Seahawks, working directly under his father for several seasons.
Who Is Pete Carroll’s Daughter?
Many fans often ask, “Who is Pete Carroll’s daughter?” The answer is Jaime Carroll, the second child of Pete and Glena Goranson. Unlike her brothers, Jaime did not pursue a career in coaching. Instead, she leaned toward media, leadership, and digital development.
Her time at USC volleyball mirrored her mother’s sports background, but her career journey shows her independent vision. Jaime plays a strong role in highlighting the importance of teamwork and personal growth, echoing the values that her parents modeled.
Pete Carroll Wife Age and Life Today
Born in 1955, Glena Goranson age in 2024 is about 69 years old. Despite being in the shadow of her husband’s fame, she has carried her life with grace and dignity. She avoids the spotlight, choosing instead to focus on family, grandchildren, and supporting Pete’s journey.
Together, Pete Carroll and wife Glena now enjoy the role of proud grandparents. Reports suggest they have seven grandchildren, making their family circle even stronger.
Glena Carroll: Her Married Name
Although many know her as Glena Goranson, in private and family circles she is sometimes referred to as Glena Carroll. This name reflects her deep connection to Pete’s legacy and the life they have built together. Whether as Goranson or Carroll, she remains central to the coach’s identity and family life.
A Strong Partner in Pete’s Career
In the early years of coaching, salaries were small and the work was demanding. Glena Goranson took on responsibility at home while Pete focused on building his career. Her patience allowed him to grow into one of the NFL’s most respected coaches.
One famous story recalls that while Pete was a young assistant at the University of Arkansas, Glena babysat Lane Kiffin, the son of Monte Kiffin, who would later become a coaching legend himself. This simple act shows how Glena was woven into the early world of football.
Public Recognition of Glena Goranson
For decades, Glena Goranson chose to stay away from media. But in January 2024, when Pete stepped down as head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, he publicly expressed his gratitude. In tears, Pete thanked Glena, calling her the heart of his journey. Fans and journalists alike were touched by his words, and for many, it was the first time they saw how much Glena meant behind the scenes.
This rare spotlight moment reminded everyone that the story of Pete Carroll cannot be told without honoring his wife, Glena Goranson.
Legacy of the Carroll Marriage
The story of Pete Carroll and wife Glena is more than a sports marriage. It is a tale of endurance, patience, and unity. In a field where careers are unstable and stress levels are high, they built a home that kept their children grounded and their marriage strong.
Their nearly 50 years together stand as proof that fame and success are best enjoyed when shared with someone who believes in you fully. Glena Goranson gave Pete that belief every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who is Glena Goranson?
A: She is the wife of NFL coach Pete Carroll, married since 1976, and a former volleyball player.
Q2: How old is Pete Carroll’s wife?
A: Glena Goranson was born in 1955, making her about 69 years old in 2024.
Q3: Does Pete Carroll have a daughter?
A: Yes, Jaime Carroll is Pete and Glena’s daughter, a former volleyball athlete and media professional.
Q4: How many children do Pete Carroll and wife have?
A: They have three children: Brennan, Jaime, and Nate Carroll.
Q5: What is Glena Goranson known for?
A: She is best known as Pete Carroll’s wife and the supportive force behind his coaching career.
Conclusion
The story of Glena Goranson is the story of love, loyalty, and quiet strength. While Pete Carroll built a career that brought championships and headlines, Glena built the foundation that allowed him to succeed. She remains the answer to the question, “Who is Pete Carroll’s wife?” — not only in name, but in legacy.
Her journey shows that behind every great leader is often a partner who believes in them unconditionally. For Pete Carroll, that partner has always been Glena Goranson.
Curious for more? Dive deeper on our site now! News Care
