Jim Tressel, the former national championship-winning head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, has taken on a new role—this time, in politics. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has appointed Tressel as the state’s new lieutenant governor, filling the vacancy left by Jon Husted, who recently moved to the U.S. Senate.
DeWine spoke highly of Tressel’s leadership abilities and deep ties to Ohio.
“He has the experience, the leadership qualities, and the deep understanding of Ohio that make him the right choice,” DeWine stated. “I trust his judgment completely.”
Tressel, 72, was enjoying retirement after stepping down as Youngstown State University’s president last year. The offer came as an unexpected turn in his life.
“I was caught off guard,” Tressel admitted in an interview with The Columbus Dispatch. “I thought the governor was just stopping by to watch my grandkids play basketball.”
Encouraged by his wife, Ellen, Tressel embraced the opportunity.
“She told me, ‘It looks like there’s still more for you to do. Ohio has given us so much—this is a way to give back.’”
With a career that has spanned coaching, education, and now politics, Tressel continues to leave his mark on the state he calls home.
