How soon will the University award an honorary doctorate degree to Tim Brewster for his public relations skills? Since being named the Gophers football coach in January, Brewster has made a series of PR moves endearing him to the public, media and special interest groups such as the Minnesota High School Football Coaches Association.
Last Friday night Brewster and his staff hosted over 400 high school football coaches for a fish fry and Gopher scrimmage. Brewster was at his best. He announced he was becoming a member of the association, an organization that promotes and serves the interests of football in the state. His players impressed the crowd, too, when they lined up and shook hands with the high school coaches.
Don Swanson, an association board member, said prep coaches want to feel like they have a voice with Gopher football and to be recognized. Speaking of former head coach Glen Mason, Swanson said many coaches “never met him in 10 years.”
Swanson said he was “surprised by the large number of coaches” who came to the Friday night event. He was expecting more like 100, rather than 400.
Swanson, association executive director Ron Stolski, and many coaches from various parts of the state have already met and been impressed with Brewster. They love his messages including that the Gophers aren’t just about the University or metro area, but they represent the state. “He’s a good guy,” Swanson said. “He loves his job. . ..”
Brewster is 24-7 in his efforts to reach people. Later this spring he or a member of his staff will visit each football high school in the state. He wants every Big Ten Conference quality player from the state to attend Minnesota. Swanson said Brewster talked Friday night about how it bothers him to see Minnesotans play at Wisconsin or Iowa. “There’s no reason to leave the state of Minnesota and go represent anyone else,” Brewster told Sports Headliners Sunday.
Starting at 6 p.m. on Friday at the Bierman Building on campus, Brewster is hosting a free reunion for former Gopher football players. The event will include a meal and program. He said football alumni can attend without making a reservation, but those looking for more information can call the football office, 612-624-6004.