Caldwell receives ovation from print media at annual gathering

In Birmingham, Ala., the night before his appearance at SEC Media Days, Vanderbilt Head Football Coach Robbie Caldwell was so unrecognizable among the public that he received a tip from a restaurant patron when he held the door for him. After his performance in front of media the following day, Caldwell’s time of being mistaken for a doorman is likely over – at least by anyone who follows SEC football.

Making his debut in front of the national media July 22, Caldwell left every room and hallway at the Wynfrey Hotel in Hoover, Ala., buzzing about the newly minted coach of the Commodores. Showcasing his sense of humor and humility, Caldwell stole the show – even receiving an ovation following his appearance in front of the print media.

Caldwell was named Vanderbilt’s head coach July 14 when Bobby Johnson announced his retirement from college football citing personal reasons. Caldwell has been the assistant head coach and offensive line coach for the Commodores for the past eight years. He has spent more than three decades in the college ranks.

“He’s earned this position, and we’re 100 percent behind Robbie and the rest of the staff,” said David Williams, vice chancellor for university affairs and athletics.

In a letter to Commodore fans on July 16, Caldwell wrote, “The last 48 hours have indeed been a whirlwind for our coaches and the student-athletes on the Commodore football team. At the same time, I think every Vanderbilt fan should know how incredibly excited I am to have the opportunity to coach the 2010 football team. Our players share my enthusiasm.”

The Commodores will play their opening two games of the 2010 season under the lights in Vanderbilt Stadium. The season opener against Northwestern on Sept. 4 will kick off at 6:30 p.m. Vanderbilt’s first game against an SEC opponent – Sept. 11 vs. nationally ranked LSU – will kick off at 6 p.m.

For more information on games and tickets, call (615) 322-GOLD or visit www.vucommodores.com.

Posted 08/01/10