Monday, May 24, 2010

2010 Tri-Cities Cougar Golf Classic Shines Bright



Now that the dust has settled on the 25Th Annual Tri-Cities Cougar Golf Classic, it's time to reflect on what a special day it was. With presenting sponsors Sterling Savings and Sun West Sportswear, the tournament returned to its roots at beautiful Meadow Springs Country Club in Richland. The die-hards of old turned out in forces playing golf and waiting to get a sneak peek of what to expect in the coming years. New Athletic Director Bill Moos was the featured guest and he didn't disappoint. As usual, Moos had a few stories to tell and kept the sellout crowd in stitches. Those in attendance included legendary quarterback Jack Thompson, who was accompanied by his son Tony, a former tight end for the Cougars. His main target in college, current receivers coach Mike Levenseller was also there, as well as longtime Tri-City Americans' coach Don Nachbauer (pictured above second from left).

It's a new era in Cougar athletics. Moos reminded the Cougar faithful that he only had two losing seasons in football in 17 years as an athletic director at Montana and Oregon. He increased fund raising tremendously at both schools and set the tone for what they are today. He plans to do the same at WSU. And given the way he worked the room and turned some heads, it won't take long.

Cougar fans haven't seen many standing ovations of late, but they got plenty at Meadow Springs. Hats off to Tournament Chair Tammy Mulholland, who put on a very successful event in its first year back at Meadow Springs, and she accomplished what the tournament was set out to do; raise money for the athletic department, generate enthusiasm, and make sure everyone had a good time.

Like Bill Moos, she didn't disappoint either.