Jim Tressel - a Great Football Coach, a Classy Guy

When you think of NCAA football coaches, "classy" is generally not an adjective that comes to the forefront of the descriptions. However, when I think about the best way to describe Ohio State Buckeyes head coach, Jim Tressel, this is precisely the first word that comes to mind.

The Buckeyes are undoubtedly a powerful football team on the field, but as great as it is to see Robiskie pull in a Todd Boeckman pass, or see that solid effort play after play from each of the linebackers, I am equally as interested in those quiet moments off the field, when the cameras catch those candid moments of both players and coaches. In Jim Tressel's sweater-vested helm at The Ohio State University's football program, I have been awed at the way he handles himself with class and dignity. He is humble; never running up the score against opposing teams, but at the same time, showing great aggressiveness called for in the games against arch-rival Michigan.

As a coach, the numbers speak for themselves- his winning percentage is right at the top with a small population of great coaches out there. When it comes to respect however, Tressel by far exceeds the rest of the competition. While we catch other coaches mouthing some downright nasty phrases on camera, and see others like Joe Paterno constantly complaining (or going after) the referees, this has never been the case with Jim Tressel; he will defend his team to the end, but he will not disrespect someone else in the process. He gives articulate interviews, and doesn't rudely wave off reporters as I have seen Lloyd Carr do many times. He is just simply a soft-spoken, stand-up guy.... who happens to be able to lead a football team to greatness. The respect that he shows his players makes them want to be better, both on and off the field. That is not to say that Tressel has not endured his share of controversy since becoming head coach- players with some violations more serious than others, but even through sorting out the aftermath, Tressel remained respectful and honest about each situation.