University of Tennessee Athletics
Turning Over the Reins
September 03, 2001 | General
Aug 23, 2001
Turning Over the Reins
As you read this column, the orderly transition of power within our organization has again taken place. After my two-year term, I am pleased, relieved and excited to introduce you to our new President, Wendell Anderson. Of course, before I turned over the reins, in "Clintonesque" fashion I have pilfered the "T" Club of furniture and souvenirs, pardoned all of those who have told stories excessively beyond the truth of their athletic exploits (about 82% of our membership) and relocated my post-presidential office in the boiler room of Stadium Hall. I am still trying to adapt to not hearing from Judy Constantine several times a day.
Of course, I will still be around. As with any organization, the finest role is that of past president. As others have done and continued to do, I now get to sit in the back of the room and heckle the current leadership. Additionally, I will still get the opportunity to be involved on behalf of all lettermen as a representative to the University of Tennessee Athletic Sport. I am honored and appreciative of Coach Dickey's trust in me in making this appointment and hope to serve the interest of the department and particularly those of all lettermen past and present in that position.
Enough about that. Let's talk about Wendell. For those of you who do not know him, Wendell played football in the late 1970's for Coach Johnny Majors. He was a local kid, having graduated from Gibbs High School in 1977, who saw most of his time on special teams and occasionally in the offensive back field. For those of you that played for Coach Majors, you will be familiar with Coaches highest compliment which he bestowed on Wendell his senior year stating, "I'd get in a fox hole with this guy anytime." Of course, if this scenario played out today, neither Wendell, myself and many of our members could even jump out of the foxhole once the battle was over.
Wendell received his degree from UT in business management in 1981 and is married to the former Suzan Howard and has two sons, Lincoln and Timothy. After a career in sales and management for a local commercial building maintenance and cleaning service, Wendell recently started his own company, New Era Service Corporation. He and his employees have been quite successful.olvement for the athletic department by our membership. Additionally, Wendell along with myself and many others on our Board feel it is imperative to involve all past athletes regardless of background. sport or age in our organization. As many have said, strength is in numbers and our numbers continue to grow. We have become a voice which is listened to not only within the athletic department, but within the entire UT community. I know that Wendell will provide dynamic and lighthearted leadership for our group and I urge you to support him as you have supported me and other past presidents during their tenure.We have accomplished a lot over the last two years. I am confident we will accomplish much more.
Go Vols!
Don Bosch
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