I read with interest “Chip” Malafronte’s column concerning George DeLeone in the New Haven Register on Jan. 16, 2013. I was privileged to work with George when he was head coach at Southern Connecticut State University. I found him to be knowledgeable, hard-working and a coach under whose direction you would want your son to play football. The material was not always good and often lacked those innate skills which help to win ball games. Nevertheless, what impressed me the most was Coach DeLeone’s determination to inspire his teams to play above their ability level. In particular, I remember the last game against a far superior Central Connecticut State University when Coach DeLeone literally willed his team to victory. When George was at Syracuse University with such players as Donovan McNabb, he was considered a top offensive coordinator, especially with his innovative option offense. What a difference having outstanding material makes! When the Miami Dolphins were having a tough season, I wonder if their fans were overjoyed to see Nick Saban leave? Now Saban is considered a genius with Alabama’s great material!
Joseph Orsene
Cheshire