Glena Goranson is widely recognized as the devoted wife of Pete Carroll, the spirited and successful head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, but her own story reaches far beyond that role. She is a woman whose life reflects quiet strength, humility, and deep dedication to her family. While Pete has spent decades under the bright lights of football stadiums, Glena has built a life of balance and meaning away from the spotlight. Her presence has been a constant source of support and stability through every high and low of her husband’s long career.
To truly understand Pete Carroll’s journey, one must also understand the woman who has stood by him for nearly five decades, shaping not only their family but also the sense of groundedness that defines his leadership.
Profile Summary
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Glena Goranson Carroll |
| Birth Year | 1955 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 70 years old |
| Birthplace | California, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | University of the Pacific, Stockton, California |
| Degree | Physical Education |
| Occupation | Former Educator, Philanthropist |
| Spouse | Pete Carroll (m. 1976) |
| Children | Brennan Carroll, Jaime Carroll, Nate Carroll |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm) |
| Weight | 130 lbs (59 kg) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Net Worth (approx.) | $5 million |
| Religion | Christian |
| Known For | Wife of Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll |
| Residence | Seattle, Washington, USA |
Early Life and Background
Born in 1955 in California, Glena Goranson grew up in a close and supportive family that valued kindness, education, and perseverance. From a young age, she showed an interest in sports and outdoor activities, developing an athletic mindset that would later become a key part of her identity. Her childhood environment encouraged curiosity and independence, helping her grow into a confident and self-reliant woman.
Though information about her parents and siblings remains private, it’s known that she was raised with a sense of discipline and appreciation for teamwork—values that would guide her through life. The California lifestyle, with its emphasis on fitness and community, helped shape her early worldview. She learned the importance of staying active, maintaining balance, and working toward goals with quiet determination.
How Glena Looks and Her Current Age
Glena Goranson is a graceful and elegant woman who carries herself with confidence and warmth. She has a fit and healthy appearance that reflects her lifelong love for sports and an active lifestyle. Standing about 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing around 130 pounds, she maintains an athletic build even in her seventies. Glena has blonde hair, bright blue eyes, and a kind smile that shows her gentle nature. Born in 1955, she is 70 years old as of 2025, yet she continues to stay energetic, positive, and youthful in both spirit and appearance.
Education and College Years
After finishing high school, Glena attended the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, where she majored in physical education. Her time at the university would prove to be a major turning point in her life. Known for her dedication both in the classroom and on the volleyball court, Glena became part of the university’s strong athletic community. She excelled as a student-athlete, balancing her studies with her passion for sports, teamwork, and leadership.
It was here that she first met Pete Carroll, who was then a young football player with dreams of coaching. The University of the Pacific provided the perfect setting for their paths to cross—two determined student-athletes, both driven by ambition and a shared love for competition. Their friendship quickly grew into a bond that would define the rest of their lives.
How Glena Met Pete Carroll
The story of how Glena met Pete Carroll is simple yet meaningful. Both were deeply involved in their respective sports at the University of the Pacific, and the campus athletic community often brought athletes from different teams together. Through shared practices, campus events, and mutual friends, they got to know each other. Their relationship blossomed naturally, built on mutual respect, humor, and shared goals.
At that stage, Pete was still figuring out his path, uncertain of where football would take him, while Glena was focused on completing her education and pursuing a life in fitness and teaching. She saw potential in him long before fame entered the picture, and her belief in his abilities gave him confidence during uncertain times. Their love story grew through the simple moments of college life—late-night conversations, training sessions, and shared dreams of building something meaningful together.
Marriage and Family Life
In 1976, after years of dating, Glena and Pete Carroll got married, beginning a lifelong partnership that has now lasted nearly fifty years. Their early years together were marked by constant change, as Pete began his coaching career with positions at small colleges before working his way up to the NFL. These years required frequent moves, long hours, and financial uncertainty, but Glena faced every challenge with patience and optimism.
She created a sense of home no matter where they lived, offering Pete the emotional support he needed to chase his coaching dreams. Life as a coach’s wife meant adjusting to new towns, new teams, and an unpredictable schedule, but she handled it all with quiet strength. Behind every coaching victory and career milestone, Glena was there, holding the family together, making sure their children had stability, and giving her husband the peace of mind to focus on his career.
Who Is Pete Carroll?
Pete Carroll is a well-known American football coach, best recognized as the longtime head coach of the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. Born on September 15, 1951, in San Francisco, California, he built a reputation for his energetic personality, positive coaching style, and strong leadership. Before joining the Seahawks, he coached in college football and the NFL, including a successful run as head coach at the University of Southern California (USC), where he won two national championships. Under his leadership, the Seahawks won Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014. Known for his optimism, competitive spirit, and ability to motivate players, Pete Carroll is one of the most respected and successful coaches in modern football history.
The Carroll Children
Glena and Pete Carroll have three children—Brennan, Jaime, and Nate—who have all built successful careers inspired by their parents’ love and guidance. Brennan Carroll, born in 1979, followed his father into football and is now the offensive coordinator for the Arizona Wildcats. Jaime Carroll chose a business path and co-founded Compete to Create, a company that helps people improve performance and mindset. Nate Carroll, the youngest, works with the Seattle Seahawks as a senior offensive assistant coach. All three share a close bond with their parents and reflect the strong values of family, hard work, and kindness that Glena and Pete have always taught them.
A Life Beyond the Spotlight
Glena Goranson has always preferred to live a quiet and private life, even though she is married to one of the most famous coaches in the NFL. She avoids social media, interviews, and public attention, choosing instead to focus on her family and personal happiness. Glena only appears at important events, such as Seahawks celebrations, charity fundraisers, or family gatherings, where she supports her husband with grace and humility.
Her calm and grounded personality has helped her family stay balanced despite the pressures of fame. By keeping her life simple and private, Glena shows that true happiness comes from peace, love, and strong family values rather than public recognition.
Community and Philanthropy
Glena Goranson has always believed in helping others and giving back to the community. Alongside her husband, Pete Carroll, she co-founded A Better Seattle, a program focused on supporting young people, reducing gang violence, and promoting education and mentorship. The organization works to create safer and stronger communities by providing guidance and opportunities for at-risk youth. Glena plays a key role behind the scenes, helping to organize events and support local initiatives. Her kindness, compassion, and dedication to making a positive difference have earned her quiet respect, showing that her impact extends far beyond football and into the lives of many who need hope and support.
Character and Influence
Those who have observed Glena’s life describe her as the heart of the Carroll family. Her patience, empathy, and inner strength have played a major role in Pete’s success. Her calm personality provides the perfect balance to Pete’s energetic and passionate nature. Over the years, Pete has spoken publicly about how much her support has meant to him, especially during tough moments in his coaching career.
After the Seahawks’ heartbreaking loss in Super Bowl XLIX, Pete mentioned that Glena helped him process the defeat and reminded him to look at the bigger picture. Her ability to offer perspective and stability during turbulent times has been one of the keys to their lasting marriage. She is known for being deeply thoughtful, choosing her words carefully, and always focusing on what truly matters—family, gratitude, and resilience.
Personal Life and Interests
Glena Goranson lives a peaceful and private life centered around family, health, and community. She enjoys staying active through outdoor activities like walking and hiking, a habit that reflects her background in sports and physical education. Glena also loves reading, gardening, and spending quality time with her children and grandchildren. Even though her husband’s career has brought fame, she prefers a simple and quiet lifestyle, focusing on personal happiness rather than public attention. Her calm nature, positive attitude, and love for healthy living show her balanced approach to life and the values she continues to share with those around her.
Age, Family, and Stability
As of 2025, Glena Goranson is about 70 years old. She and Pete have been married since 1976, celebrating nearly fifty years of life together. Their relationship stands as a rare example of longevity and commitment in the fast-paced world of professional sports. They have faced challenges, long separations during football seasons, and the pressures of media attention, yet they’ve always come through stronger.
Their home has always been a place of warmth and comfort, where family comes first and fame takes a back seat. Pete Carroll, who is now in his seventies as well, continues to credit Glena as his foundation and inspiration. Their partnership has become a symbol of enduring love built on trust, patience, and mutual respect.
Net Worth and Achievements
Financially, the Carroll family has achieved great success thanks to Pete’s coaching career. Pete Carroll’s estimated net worth is around $80 million, and Glena’s individual net worth is believed to be about $5 million. Yet, for both of them, wealth has never been the measure of success. What they value most is their family, their health, and the impact they’ve made through their community work. Glena’s greatest achievements are not the ones captured in headlines but those reflected in her family’s unity and the positive influence she’s had on the people around her. Her quiet success lies in her ability to remain true to herself while supporting others in reaching their potential.
Legacy and Life Lessons
Glena Goranson’s story is a testament to the power of quiet strength and lasting love. Her life shows that success does not always come with fame and recognition—it can also be found in the way one nurtures family, builds stability, and uplifts others. She has been the steady force behind one of the most respected figures in football, yet she has never needed public praise.
Her influence is seen in her husband’s leadership style, her children’s achievements, and the positive example she continues to set for those around her. Through her grace, patience, and dedication, Glena has built a legacy that goes far beyond sports. She reminds us that true greatness often works silently behind the scenes, shaping lives and inspiring others through love, integrity, and humility.
Conclusion
Glena Goranson’s life is an inspiring story of devotion, balance, and quiet determination. From her early days as a student-athlete to her decades as a supportive wife, mother, and philanthropist, she has lived a life guided by values that never fade with time. Her journey alongside Pete Carroll proves that every success story has a foundation built by unseen effort and unwavering support. While Pete’s name will always be associated with football excellence, Glena’s name stands for something equally meaningful—loyalty, strength, and compassion.
Her ability to stay grounded in a world full of noise makes her story both unique and timeless. For those who look beyond fame, Glena Goranson’s life offers a beautiful reminder that the quietest voices often have the most lasting impact.
FAQs About Glena Goranson
1. Who is Glena Goranson?
Glena Goranson is the wife of Pete Carroll, the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks. She is known for her quiet strength, supportive nature, and active role in her family and community.
2. How old is Glena Goranson?
Glena Goranson was born in 1955, which makes her 70 years old as of 2025.
3. When did Glena Goranson marry Pete Carroll?
Glena and Pete Carroll got married in 1976 and have been together for nearly five decades.
4. Do Glena and Pete Carroll have children?
Yes, they have three children—Brennan, Jaime, and Nate Carroll—each of whom has built successful careers inspired by their parents’ values.
5. What does Glena Goranson do?
Glena is a former educator and philanthropist. She is actively involved in community work, including co-founding A Better Seattle to support youth development.
6. What is Glena Goranson’s net worth?
Glena Goranson’s estimated net worth is around $5 million, while her husband Pete Carroll’s net worth is about $80 million.
