Former Tampa Bay Storm Coach Tim Marcum Dies at 69

It is definitely a sad time for fans for the Arena Football League’s Tampa Bay Storm. Former Tampa Bay Storm Coach Tim Marcum passed away at a Hospice in Citrus County on Thursday.

Marcum was the winningest coach in Arena Football League history, and led the Storm to three championships in his time with the team.

Bill Wickett, executive vice president of marketing and communications for the Tampa Bay Lightning told the Tampa Tribune on Thursday that Marcum had been in failing health for months. He also went on to speak about Marcum’s legacy.

"“Anybody that knew Coach Marcum knew he was larger than life,” Wickett said. “He lived and breathed the Arena Football League and the Tampa Bay Storm. He sold the game more than anybody else. That’s a huge legacy.”"

Marcum spent 16 years with the Tampa Bay Storm. During that time he earned a 156-79 record and guided th Storm to 3 AFL Championships.

Tampa Bay Storm President Derrick Brooks issued a statement via the Official Tampa Bay Storm site regarding the passing of the former coach.

"“We were saddened to learn today of the passing of coach Tim Marcum. As the winningest coach in league history, a seven-time ArenaBowl champion and a three-time ArenaBowl champion as coach of the Tampa Bay Storm, his legacy and place in our game will not be forgotten. He will be missed greatly by everyone involved in the Arena Football League. Not only will I miss him as a coach, but I will also miss him as a friend. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones.”"

Marcum was inducted into the inaugural class of the Arena Football League Hall of Fame in 1998.