Quotes about McDonnell

By The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Contact)

“Honestly, I thought I’d retire before he did. I figured he’d coach forever. It’s hard to believe.”

— Former Arkansas NCAA champion Wallace Spearmon Jr.

“It’s a sad day for the Razorbacks, but it’s only fair to John and his family that he share some time with them. He’s done so much for Arkansas, and now it’s time for him to enjoy the rest of his life.”

— Former Arkansas NCAA champion Alistair Cragg

“I’ve been very fortunate to have him in my life. He’s so humble and such a great guy with a great heart.”

— Former Arkansas NCAA champion Seneca Lassiter

“It’s very emotional. This has been our lives for all these years. It’s been a tough decision, but I left it up to him.”

— Ellen McDonnell, John’s wife

“The toughest thing in coaching is to repeat. But not for John. He just kept repeating.”

— Former Arkansas Athletic Director Frank Broyles

“The unprecedented success of his cross country and track and field programs has resulted in tremendous recognition for the state, the university and the Razorbacks.”

— Arkansas System President B. Alan Sugg

“He never did things in half-measures. He did everything like he cared deeply about it.”

— Former Arkansas All-American Frank O’Mara

WHAT THEY SAID IN 1998

“John McDonnell is the Bear Bryant of track and field.”

— Frank Broyles

“John has never rested on his laurels, nor has he allowed his team to rest on their laurels. He keeps them truly motivated, and if he sees people acting real cocky ... he’ll take them down a peg or two real fast.”

— Former Arkansas All-American Naill O’Shaunessy

“That man is sort of obsessed with continued success.”

— Frank O’Mara

“He always says the same things, that the athletes are the ones who win the championships, not him. His unselfishness is what has made him the best that ever was.”

— Former Arkansas NCAA champion Joe Falcon