Former Seahawks running back Dan Doornink passed away on Saturday at the age of 70, the team announced Sunday afternoon. It’s a tough day for any fan who remembers his seven seasons wearing the green and blue for the Emerald City’s own. Doornink was traded to Seattle from the New York Giants before the 1979 season and quickly became a fan favorite with his relentless effort.
The Kingdome Classic That Showed Us Everything
Doornink was a seventh-round draft pick by the Giants in 1978 out of Washington State University, but he truly found his home here in Seattle. Over his seven seasons with our beloved Hawks, he averaged 3.5 yards per carry and 5.5 yards per reception, racking up 15 rushing touchdowns and 11 receiving touchdowns. But the moment every 12 remembers, the one that tells you everything about the kind of player Dan was, came in the 1984 Wild Card game. It was against the Los Angeles Raiders at the legendary Kingdome, and Doornink absolutely exploded for 123 rushing yards, helping the Seahawks clinch a massive 13-7 victory. He even caught a touchdown in the AFC Championship Game loss to the Raiders the season prior. That grit, that fight, that’s what defined him on the field.
Dr. Dan’s Incredible Second Act in Washington
What makes Dan Doornink’s story even more amazing, and why he’s more than just a stat line, is what he did after hanging up his cleats. He went on to graduate from the University of Washington with his Doctorate of Medicine. Think about that: from the Kingdome turf to medical school. After earning his degree, Dr. Dan returned to his hometown of Yakima, Washington, to practice medicine. He wasn’t just a great player, he was a dedicated member of our community, giving back to the place that shaped him.
Today, we honor a true Seahawk, a Washington man through and through, who left an indelible mark on the field and in life. His legacy of determination and service reminds us what it means to be truly Seattle. We’ll always remember those 123 yards and the man who brought them to life.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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