Few coaches have a wardrobe as recognizable as Jim Tressel. In a recent interview on the Double-A Zone’s Campus Connection, Tressel shares his thoughts about academics and athletics and gives a reason for his infamous vests. The interview followed a benefit dinner for the Wilson Football Museum in Ada, Ohio—the hometown of Tressel’s parents. 

Click here to listen to the interview. 

An excerpt follows:

Q.We’re here tonight to celebrate Wilson football and to talk about the Wilson Football Museum. Why is the history of football important to you? 

A. It’s such a part of our culture here—those of us that grew up in Ohio—and of course really in the entire country. Football is that one sport that’s American. It’s not played anywhere else very well…every leather football that’s made in this country is made right here in Ohio, right here in my mom and dad’s hometown. 

Q.In your speech you emphasized academics and how your student-athletes are giving back. Can you tell me how you emphasize that with your team and why that’s important to you? 

A. One of the first things we do in recruiting is make sure they understand that if they come to Ohio State, it’s going to be more than just about football. Really football is the given. That’s their favorite subject. That’s their passion, but we make sure they know before they come that we’re going to be involved in a lot more than just that. With our love of football, we can make a difference in other areas and we can also be the best student we’re capable of being.