Tony Vitello makes strong statement about coaching at Tennessee
Tennessee Vols baseball coach Tony Vitello celebrated his 200th win at UT this weekend
Tennessee Vols baseball coach Tony Vitello celebrated his 200th career win at UT on Friday night in Knoxville.
Tennessee's 8-2 win over Gonzaga pushed Vitello's record to 200-79.
Rod Delmonico (1990-2007) is the all-time leader in wins at Tennessee with 699, followed by Bill Wright (1963-1981) with 408 wins. Vitello's 200 wins rank third all-time at UT.
After Tennessee's win against Gonzaga on Friday, Vitello reflected on his time in Knoxville.
The St Louis native, who will turn 45 later this year, told reporters that part of the reason he's had so much success with the Vols is because of the loyalty of his staff.
Vitello said there's been plenty of chances for members of his staff to leave, but they've chosen to remain at Tennessee.
"Pretty damn proud this group has stuck together," said Vitello. "There’s been a lot of under-the-table offers and over-the-table offers. Different things coming up and I think we’re all loyal to this university. I think we’re loyal to Knoxville. I think we love working for each other. And I think the kids like being around the whole group because if it’s not a happy marriage the kids can smell that out as well as anybody."
It's obvious that Vitello loves Tennessee. I mean, the guy is constantly at Vols sporting events cheering like a die-hard fan. Whether he's on the sideline at a football game or sitting courtside at a basketball game, Vitello's always in Orange and White and he's always supporting UT athletics.
There truly is a "family" feel at Tennessee these days. And Vitello is a big part of that.
