Today's Pat on the Ass goes to my hometown of New Martinsville, WV. I drove through there and some other local villages today and could not believe the signs. Every business with a marquee had "Home Town of WVU Coach Bill Stewart" or "Congrats Coach Stew". He'll likely drive through late this week and be very touched.
Bill Stewart started coaching in nearby Sistersville WV in the mid 70's, back when they were the top small high school football team in the US. HS coaches don't make enough money to cover their costs let alone hundreds and hours of dedication to the kids. They have to love what they do, and love the kids. It really was a fairytale ending last night, as the players accepted trophies on national TV and endorsed Stewart as their choice, a man who had not even thrown his hat in the ring, knowing they would likely go after a big name. The school listened, although Stewart had already done the job of selling himself with his brilliant job of getting the team ready the last few weeks. It couldn't have happened to a nicer guy.
