When Arkansas introduced Tony Vitello as an assistant baseball coach and recruiting coordinator four years ago, he called it “arguably the best assistant job in the country” while acknowledging he would like to be a head coach someday.
That day finally has arrived for the son of a high school baseball coach who describes himself as “married to the game.”
Tennessee athletic director John Currie introduced Vitello as the Volunteers’ new baseball coach Friday at Lindsey Nelson Stadium, on the field where Vitello will try to resurrect a program long dormant when it comes to success.
“Sitting on the bench watching my dad’s teams, it’s what I always knew I wanted to do,” Vitello, 38, told a crowd that included university officials, fans and current and former Tennessee players.
“There’s no question I wanted to be ready and prepared before I do it. I’m grateful for the opportunities. There really is no one day you’re going to be ready. You just need the chance.”