When USC baseball stars Lonnie Chisenhall and Nick Fuller became guests of the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, I wasn’t really surprised.
It was just a matter of time before the baseball team had a run in with the law. Ray Tanner, Steve Spurrier and Dave Odom all seem to have eyes for upstanding players. But in less than six months all three have seen some of their prized recruits in legal hot water.
What truly was devastating, even to the most experienced journalist, was Tanner’s reaction to his players shortcomings.
Normally a calm, composed customer, Tanner found himself holding back tears, speechless and even in need of a moment to gather his thoughts as he addressed the media on Tuesday.
I’ve been working for newspapers since I was 15. I’ve tried to maintain a professional attitude about every situation relating to my job.
But as Ray Tanner cried for the lost causes that were Chisenhall and Fuller, I just wanted to hug the guy.
Tanner didn’t deserve this. He has been nothing but an ambassador for the university and has been a beacon of success in an athletics department that has known very little.
When I came back from spring break, I was a refreshed journalist ready to jump back into school and work. Though I didn’t see this kind of thing coming from these guys, it really can take the wind out of your sails to see something like this happen.
Coach, keep your head up. Get back to winning that national title USC fans are dreaming about. And know no matter how professional I act, if you ever need that hug, I’m here.
--Alex Riley
Sports Editor and official softy of The Daily Gamecock
4 comments:
Alex -- was this perhaps a fraternity prank? Is the university going to be dismissing them? Is their case being handled criminally in Richland County or by the university?
I love how Riley's blogs are the only ones that ever get comments.
That's why the Free Times named him best sports writer in the city.
Well the photographers got one complement
Compliment!
Compliment!
Compliment!
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