Gattuso Named Big East's Top Recruiter by Rivals

Feb. 13, 2008

      PITTSBURGH-Pitt assistant head coach Greg Gattuso has been named the Rivals.com "Big East Recruiter of the Year" for his efforts in helping the Panthers lure the conference's top recruiting class.

      Rivals.com highlighted an assistant coach for their recruiting prowess from seven conferences, including each of the six BCS leagues. Gattuso was lauded by the website for "(pulling) off a huge upset when he reeled in cousins Cameron Saddler and Shayne Hale from Gateway."

      Gattuso "was a huge part of Pitt's success in Western Pennsylvania," Rivals added, also mentioning his role in helping to recruit quarterback Tino Sunseri (Central Catholic), linebacker Manny Williams (Clairton), defensive back Antwuan Reed (Greater Johnstown) and tight end Mike Cruz (Bishop McCort). 

      Gattuso, who in addition to his assistant head coach duties also oversees the defensive line, enters his fourth season on the Panthers' staff.

      Rivals also lauded Pitt offensive coordinator Matt Cavanaugh on its Big East Top 10 Recruiters list, crediting him with helping the Panthers attract standout wide receivers Jonathan Baldwin (Aliquippa) and Mike Shanahan (Norwin) as well as running back Chris Burns (Wilmington Area).

      Anticipation is already gearing up for the 2008 football season. Pitt returns 17 starters from last year's youthful team, which closed the year with a stunning 13-9 victory over rival West Virginia in Morgantown. Several "early bird" Top 25 listings are mentioning the Panthers as a team to watch both in the Big East and nationally.

      Season tickets for the 2008 Panthers are now on sale. Call (800) 643-PITT or go online at www.PittsburghPanthers.com.

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