Sad but true. She is one of a kind, won an unbelievable number of games and championships and did it all with grace and dignity. She is going to be coach emeritus, but she will be missed by millions. Pat Summit Retires
Just read this news a few minutes ago. She will be remembered for her achievements and her classy manner. I wish her the best in her fight against all odds not being in her favor.
Yep... Health issues have forced Pat's hand. She will be seen courtside for years to come but we Tennessee fans could see the intensity falling off. As I tell my instructors, your health is the most important thing. Take care of yourself Pat. Let the stresses of the game go and enjoy the spotlight of the success that others will stive to attain for decades to come.
Watching Pat on the bench during the Notre Dame/Tenn game it was clear that Pat needed to retire. She's one of the all time greatest, the game owes her a lot and I hope somehow they can find a way to slow down this terrible disease for her and others afflicted with it.
Yes JO'Co... she was... and will hold that distinction for at least the rest of her life. It will take longer than that for anyone to have a chance of surpassing her accomplishments. Tennessee has had a lot of good people in sports. We have had a few great people. The term “best of all time” has eluded us except for when it comes to Pat. General Neyland was great but not the best of all time. Peyton Manning was and still is great, but not the best of all time. Pat was… and is.
I second all the above comments....when the talk turns to greatest coach of all-time, any sport, any era, male or female, Pat's name has to be included in the discussion. I had the pleasure of meeting her on several occasions, an extraordinary woman, very charismatic, whose personality always dominated the room. The kind of top-tier character, intellect and force of personality that had she been in business, she would have been a Fortune 500 CEO. Had she gone into politics, she would have been President, instead she simply chose to be the best that ever was..... Take good care Coach.....
I read a USA Today article this morning that said every player who completed her eligibility under Summitt graduated. That's a 100% graduation rate over her entire career. Absolutely amazing. Here is a snippet from the article:
Kudo's to the UT Admin for finding a place for her in the program, it shows the respect that she's earned and deserves.