COLUMN: Let’s keep Morrill around

Editor,

I was alarmed to read an article by Andy Katz, one of ESPN’s college basketball pontiffs, reporting that Stew Morrill is first on the short list of candidates to replace Rick Majerus of the U.

I believe that Morrill has done amazing things for the basketball program here at Utah State, and we should do everything that we can to retain him. The U will likely offer him more money than we can match, but we must acknowledge that Morrill’s contribution to the school and community warrants at least some salary increase. If we combine that with rabid support from students and the community over the remainder of this season, I am certain we can show Morrill that Logan is the place for him.

Utah State is quickly becoming a great program and even more opportunity will present itself when we join the WAC. I don’t doubt that we can become the most well-know and best basketball team in the state (we’re already the best, but not everybody knows it.)

Whether or not you support college athletics in general, the surging sea of blue in the Spectrum on game night is concrete evidence of the significant impact Morrill has had, bringing pride and recognition to our university that reaches far beyond the hardwood of the court. We gain national exposure through his efforts, and the players he coaches are well-regarded as quality individuals.

Let’s show our appreciation to Morrill and do everything we can to prevent the U from stealing our coach away!

John Visser