I have read Coach Tressel's book The Winner's Manual as a sophomore in college, which I thoroughly enjoyed and found extremely inspirational. Last month, Coach Tressel spoke at the Central Ohio Public Relations Society of America Luncheon. Coach Tressel spoke about the five Rs in public relations. He was captivating, and even though he isn't a public relations practitioner, I believed that he possessed a good grasp of the practice.
However, I can't help but be a little disappointed...
1. I don't think Tressel and the OSU camp have handled this crisis extremely well.
2. If the accusations are indeed true, and Coach Tressel knew of these NCAA violations, this hurts the credibility that Tressel has established over his years of coaching and mentoring.
USA Today columnist Christine Brennan had no problem addressing Tressel's hypocrisy. Brennan was quick to point out that the football coach recently released "his latest book, Life Promises for Success: promises from God on achieving your best, is a collection of 'inspiring readings and Bible promises designed to encourage those seeking to success in every area of life.'"
Tressel has built strong relationships with his internal and external publics based on his "firm belief" on the importance of honor and integrity, something that as a PR guy, I have always applauded. However, this week's events aren't watering the beautiful garden that Tressel has tended to for several years now.
My approach on this situation is not quite as extreme as Brennan's. However, OSU needs to step it UP!! They have possession of the ball, but could lose this game if they throw the ball away. Tressel is a public relations practitioner's dream, because of the relationships he has formed and nurtured. It would be unfortunate if that all goes to waste.
