I propose that Pitt should consider making available retired jersey numbers to players who have the ability and attitude to properly honor the player who wore the retired jersey.
I'm not suggesting that there will ever be another Marshall Goldberg; or Tony Dorsett; or Hugh Green. I'm not even suggesting that the player wearing the retired number necessarily play the position of the former great. I'm offering a way for the former player to be further honored for an entire season.
For example, this season, I would like to see George Aston wear number 89 while playing Full Back. If there's one player who embodies the qualities that Iron Mike Ditka possessed, George comes the closest to any I've seen play at Pitt.
To take it one step further, I'd rather see a "Ring of Honor" where these former players are recognized, instead of "Retied" numbers; while being selective with the players who get to wear those numbers in the future.
No freshman should be eligible. I'd like to say only seniors would get the honor, but most of the guys who would be likely would be three and done, so I'd suggest third year and beyond.
I'm sure there would be plenty of years where there wouldn't be someone wearing a "Ring of Honor" jersey, but where it's appropriate, as in George's case, I'd like to see it implemented.
I'm not suggesting that there will ever be another Marshall Goldberg; or Tony Dorsett; or Hugh Green. I'm not even suggesting that the player wearing the retired number necessarily play the position of the former great. I'm offering a way for the former player to be further honored for an entire season.
For example, this season, I would like to see George Aston wear number 89 while playing Full Back. If there's one player who embodies the qualities that Iron Mike Ditka possessed, George comes the closest to any I've seen play at Pitt.
To take it one step further, I'd rather see a "Ring of Honor" where these former players are recognized, instead of "Retied" numbers; while being selective with the players who get to wear those numbers in the future.
No freshman should be eligible. I'd like to say only seniors would get the honor, but most of the guys who would be likely would be three and done, so I'd suggest third year and beyond.
I'm sure there would be plenty of years where there wouldn't be someone wearing a "Ring of Honor" jersey, but where it's appropriate, as in George's case, I'd like to see it implemented.
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