Feb. 15
Where has all the time gone? I think about how it has flown by, and it amazes me. I can remember back to West Virginia coach Gale Catlett's time as an assistant under several highly regarded coaches -- Adolph Rupp, Lefty Driesell and Ted Owens.

In the 1980s Catlett had seven straight seasons with 20 or more wins.

Catlett received quite an education before moving on to his own successful head-coaching career. First, he spent six seasons at Cincinnati (1972-78), including a Sweet 16 trip in 1975. Then it was back to his alma mater at West Virginia. During his playing days with the Mountaineers, New Jersey Nets general manager Rod Thorn was Catlett's roommate and teammate.

Catlett has been on the sidelines at West Virginia for more than two decades. Now he is stepping down and retiring as a head coach. Catlett was involved in college athletics as a player, assistant coach and head coach for four decades, baby!

There is no doubt Catlett has tested time while displaying a great deal of emotion and love representing his alma mater. He gave every ounce he had, and he perspired like you wouldn't believe, trying to bring fame and glory to the Mountaineer program. He led West Virginia to eight NCAA tournament bids, including the Sweet 16 in '98. In the 1980s he had seven straight seasons with 20 or more wins.

Succeeding with the Mountaineers lately hasn't come easily. The transition to the Big East conference was tough. Spending a season without a home court was also a challenge.

Over his career, Catlett has won more than 550 games as a head coach. When you look at the wins and losses, it doesn't tell you enough about the knowledge Catlett possesses. If you ever sat down and spoke with him, he would give you a wealth of information about the game he gave so much to.

I wish him nothing but the best in his retirement. I hope he has health, happiness and success in anything he wants to do. Thanks for all the memories and great moments you gave to college basketball, coach Catlett.