Thursday, June 17, 2010

The Izzo watch is over and thankfully for Michigan State fans, the veteran coach has decided to stay put.

Not lured away from the promises of $6 million a year and a chance to perhaps coach the best player in basketball, Tom Izzo made it official Tuesday night that he would return as the Spartans’ basketball coach.

The reaction was swift and loud, fans throughout the state and country were glad to have Izzo back in the fold.

We would have to agree with those fans.

Izzo is more than just a basketball coach at Michigan State.

He is a positive role model for not only the players and students he represents at Michigan State, but for the entire country.

This is a man of integrity in a sport that quite often fines little honor among thieves.
You can tell by the comments of MSU athletics director Mark Hollis and president Lou Anna K. Simon just what Izzo means to that university.

“Coach Izzo is more than a basketball coach. He positively impacts everything he touches, much of which is outside the job description of coaching basketball. With traits such as hard work, dedication, perseverance and attention to detail, he’s a symbol of what we should possess as we work together for the financial recovery of our great state.

During difficult times, the people of our state turn our focus to these kinds of people … Joe Louis, Al Kaline, Barry Sanders, Bo Schembechler, Steve Yzerman, Magic Johnson and Tom Izzo. Coach Izzo is a natural resource of the state of Michigan,” Hollis said.

Simon added, “Tom’s integral role and respect at MSU earned him the right to take the necessary time to reach his decision. Like others, I wanted the good news earlier, but the wait was worth it. Tom did what Tom does best: he devised a rigorous and thorough game plan that put him, his family, and this university in the best position to win. His decision is a winner for all of Team MSU, the state of Michigan, college basketball, and intercollegiate athletics in general.”

So let the rejoicing begin Spartan fans.

Izzo is back and now it is time for Michigan State to focus on the future, which will include many more successful seasons under his direction.