Ohio Stadium was filled with emotion, nostalgia, and reverence on Saturday night as the Ohio State Buckeyes welcomed back former head coach Jim Tressel in a grand celebration that honored his enduring legacy. Fans, alumni, former players, and university officials gathered to pay tribute to one of the most iconic figures in Ohio State football history.
The event, billed as “A Night with Tressel,” drew more than 70,000 people to the Horseshoe, many of them donning scarlet and gray in tribute to the coach who led the Buckeyes to national glory in the early 2000s. The night was highlighted by a moving halftime ceremony featuring the legendary Ohio State Marching Band, whose powerful performance brought the crowd to its feet and left many in tears.
A Triumphant Return to the ‘Shoe
Jim Tressel, who coached the Buckeyes from 2001 to 2011 and led the team to the 2002 national championship, was greeted with a deafening ovation as he emerged from the tunnel to midfield. Surrounded by former players, including Heisman winner Troy Smith and wide receiver Ted Ginn Jr., Tressel stood visibly moved as the crowd chanted “Thank you, Jim!”
“I am overwhelmed,” Tressel said in his remarks. “Ohio State has always been more than just a school or a football program to me—it’s a family. To stand here again in this stadium, with all of you, is an honor I will never forget.”
University President Dr. Kristina Johnson and Athletic Director Gene Smith both praised Tressel’s contributions to the university—not only on the field, but also in the classroom and community.
“Coach Tressel embodies the values of this university,” Johnson said. “Integrity, leadership, and a deep commitment to student success.”
The Marching Band’s Stirring Tribute
Perhaps the most emotional moment of the night came during the tribute performance by The Ohio State University Marching Band. Known as “The Best Damn Band in the Land,” the band delivered a powerful medley of fight songs, fan favorites, and special arrangements linked to Tressel’s most memorable games.
The centerpiece of the performance was a moving rendition of “Carmen Ohio,” Ohio State’s alma mater, performed in a hauntingly beautiful arrangement that filled the stadium with emotion. As Tressel looked on from the 50-yard line, the band formed a massive script “Tressel” across the field—eliciting tears from the coach and a thunderous ovation from the fans.
“It was absolutely incredible,” said Troy Smith. “Coach Tressel gave everything to this program, and seeing the band honor him like that—it brought back so many memories.”
A Legacy Remembered
Tressel’s legacy at Ohio State remains deeply respected. During his tenure, he compiled a record of 106–22, won seven Big Ten titles, and posted a 9–1 record against archrival Michigan. More than just wins, however, Tressel was known for his leadership, discipline, and commitment to academic excellence.
Throughout the evening, video montages played on the jumbotron, showcasing highlights from his career: the 2002 Fiesta Bowl win over Miami, dramatic victories over Michigan, and heartfelt moments with his players. Many former Buckeyes took to the stage to share stories of how Tressel shaped their lives, both on and off the field.
“Coach was like a second father to me,” said linebacker A.J. Hawk. “He taught us to be better men, not just better athletes.”
Looking Ahead
Although Tressel stepped away from coaching more than a decade ago and recently retired as the president of Youngstown State University, his presence at Ohio Stadium reminded everyone why he remains a beloved figure in Buckeye Nation. There is now renewed talk among fans and university officials of further honoring Tressel—possibly with a statue outside the stadium or the naming of a facility in his honor.
As the night concluded with a fireworks display and a final performance of the Ohio State fight song, Tressel stood on the field surrounded by family, friends, and former players. With tears in his eyes and a hand over his heart, he saluted the crowd one last time.
“Once a Buckeye, always a Buckeye,” Tressel said, his voice cracking with emotion. “I am forever grateful.”
The night served not only as a tribute to a great coach but as a reminder of the deep bonds that unite Buckeye Nation—across generations, through triumph and challenge, and always with pride.
