LA MIRADA, Calif. — Former Biola University star athlete, coach, athletic director and president emeritus, Dr. Clyde Cook passed away suddenly on Friday night in his home in Fullerton. He was 72 years old.

Over his 50-plus years as a member of the Biola Community, Dr. Cook occupied numerous positions at the University including serving as Biola's seventh president—a position he held for 25 years.

Prior to that time, however, Cook was a star athlete and one of the “founding fathers” of Biola's athletic programs.

After being named the CIF basketball Player of the Year in 1953, Cook was offered athletic scholarships to 13 different major universities, but turned them all down to attend Biola. He proved to be a truly gifted athlete, leading the Eagles' basketball squad and setting numerous scoring records—some of which are still around to this day.

Cook served as the basketball team's head coach during his senior season and became Biola's first Athletic Director after graduating, holding that position from 1957-60.

In addition, he helped begin Biola's baseball and track and field programs, coaching both for a number of years.

Cook's athletic ability set him apart as a leader and gave him a platform for ministry that took him to dozens of countries with “Venture for Victory.”

In his final year as the president of the University in 2007, Cook was honored at halftime of the Biola basketball team's regular-season finale in February. During the ceremony, he became the first Biola basketball player to have his number retired.

“Dr. Cook was long loved by this community and has truly impacted the world for the Lord Jesus Christ through countless lives,” said Biola President Barry H. Corey. “We will miss him dearly.”

More details regarding the memorial services will be announced in the days ahead.