I’ve been truly blessed with amazing colleagues, coaches, athletes, media, fans and an abundance of friends that I have amassed from around the nation through my years. I cannot amply thank all of you for the lifetime of experiences.
I have to specifically thank the leaders who I have worked with including Bill Olsen & Don Russell who hired me, Tom Jurich, Vince Tyra & Josh Heird. I appreciate them allowing me to play a tiny role in the operation & development of our athletics department over the years.
And I’m so honored & appreciative for the adventures I’ve shared with basketball head coaches Denny Crum, Rick Pitino, David Padgett, Chris Mack and Mike Pegues, as well as their staffs & players -- from the walk-ons to stars. The journey has been beyond memorable.
I owe so much to my current staff and many more over the years, especially my assistant Kathy Tronzo, who is approaching 50 years at UofL. It has been a privilege to work with so many talented & loyal people to try to amplify the great accomplishments at UofL.
After planning this for a while, the arrival of Kenny Payne made re-think my position. He’s a terrific person and is assembling a wonderful staff that will lead our Cards back to national prominence, & will do it with a kind heart.
And while I’m retiring from my current position, I expect to still be around to support Kenny and our basketball program in some role. But it’s time for me to be a bit selfish.
My wife Donna and sons Alex & Brady & grandkids have too often tolerated my absence, & I hope to make up some of that time now. I’m still at UofL a couple months, but am looking forward to grabbing a beverage this fall & cheering the Cards on from the stands. Stop by to say hi.
@KKcards
Congratulations on a great career Kenny! I absolutely loved seeing you at the games. You always have a great energy! Selfishly, I don’t want to see you go because you’re irreplaceable, though if your heart’s telling you it’s time, it’s time. Thank you for all of your dedication!
@KKcards
One Kenny enters. One Kenny departs. Symmetry is beautiful.
@KKCards
is the best in the biz. Thanks for all of your polite support and constant info flow, Kenny Klein!
#GoCards