Topic: Danny Wells on Pruett...

[W0lfman]

Danny Wells

Pruett, Beilein, Baisi, Miller, Cottrell, clocks

Quote of the week: Former Marshall offensive lineman Joey Stepp on being recruited by former Marshall coach Bobby Pruett: “My visit came when me and my father came up here just for one day during spring practice. After that, I instantly made one joke that Coach Pruett could sell a dead chicken to a farmer. ... He was honest as he can be. ... I mean, his all-around character, the way he motivates people. The way he has respect for everyone. He’s just a heck of a guy.’’

Pruett probably could have sold a dead fowl or two to members of the media who more often than not were charmed into the palms of his hands.

Pruett was one of the few Division I coaches who didn't require a formal appointment for a visit. Many times I just strolled into the area near Pruett's office and told his secretary I was there.

It wasn't long before Pruett came out and waved me into his office. As far as I know, he was that way with all reporters.

He was always good for a story and more often than not WVU was worked into the conversation in one form or another. He probably made more enemies than he intended by constantly razzing WVU for not meeting Marshall on the football field.

But he couldn't resist jabbing the needle.

Pruett doubtless is one of the few head coaches who was called two different names in the press. In Huntington, he was Bobby. His restaurant in Huntington carries the name “Bobby Pruett's Steakhouse.”

But the Charleston media always stuck with Bob.

Regardless, Pruett has earned a peaceful retirement. Let's hope he enjoys it.

http://wvgazette.com/section/Sports/2005031250

[Huffnagel]

I recently had the oppurtunity to speak with Joey Stepp's dad and he said the same thing. He told me after the first visit to Marshall and his conversation with Pruett, he was sold. He also stated that he told Joey that Marshall was his school and where he wanted him to go. And we all know the rest of the story.

[Mako]

I mentioned to GreenSteve the other day that one of the reasons Marshall has gotten such good press over the last few years is Pruett's undeniable charm and his accessibility to the media.  An ESPN Radio guy said that Pruett gave reporters his cell phone number and always returned calls.  Now, I don't think reporters ever sit down and think, "gee, I'm going to give the Herd some positive coverage because Coach Pruett is such a swell guy."  However, being accessible keeps you in their mind and that willing accessibility makes it more difficult to write a negative story.  Media relations 101 folks.