Waco, TX— In a moment that went beyond football, strategy, and headlines, Baylor Bears Head Coach Dave Aranda walked away from the sidelines and into the spotlight of something far more profound: love. In a highly emotional and poignant statement, Aranda spoke about the woman who has been by his side through every victory, tragedy, and unsure moment: his beloved wife, Dione Aranda.
“It is with profound passion,” Aranda continued, “that I communicate what words frequently fail to convey. Dione, you are our home’s heartbeat, the quiet power that drives all I do, and the greatest blessing I’ve ever experienced.
Aranda is known for his reserved and austere approach on the field, and he rarely reveals personal comments in public. But in this rare letter to Dione, he ignored the script and talked with honest candor about the unbreakable friendship they’ve enjoyed for years.
He spoke to her as his “rock” — the one who has endured late hours, the demands of a collegiate football career, and the often unrelenting scrutiny of coaching life. “You’ve carried the emotional weight of this journey when I couldn’t,” he said in an email. “You reared our children with grace and affection while I was engrossed in video games. You have buoyed me up when I have doubted myself. “You believed in me when I did not believe in myself.”
Aranda recalled their early days, when they had long discussions about religion and purpose, and they made quiet commitments not only for a life of love but also for mutual improvement. “I think back to when we were younger,” he said. “We did not have much, but we had vision. We had each other. That was enough—it still is.”
The letter went on to outline Aranda’s hopes for the future, which included not only continuing success on the field, but also more moments of calm, connection, and joy with Dione. “My greatest hope is not another championship,” he made clear. “It’s that we continue walking this life hand-in-hand, with the same devotion that’s carried us this far.”
He also commended Dione’s position as a mother, stating, “You’ve taught our daughters to be strong, compassionate, and loyal.” And our son sees in you the kind of love that allows him to be both compassionate and confident.”
Aranda concluded the message by writing, “There are many things in life over which I have no control, such as the outcome of a game, the bounce of a ball, or the opinions of others.” But one thing is certain: I love you. I cherish you. And I will always be grateful for the opportunity to share this life with you.
In a world that frequently focuses on victories and headlines, Dave Aranda’s letter reminds us of something deeper: that behind every strong leader is sometimes an even stronger collaborator. For Aranda, Dione is more than simply his wife; she is his home.