I was so sad to learn that Big East commissioner Mike Tranghese will step down from his post after the 2009 season.

Tranghese has been a class administrator for many years, first serving as an assistant to Hall of Famer Dave Gavitt. Back in 1979, Gavitt had the vision and creative ability to form the Big East. That was a major plus for conference schools, giving them added TV visibility. ESPN provided great exposure on a regular basis.

Gavitt had the foresight to make it happen and the league gained so much publicity and notoriety. Then Tranghese, who was tutored by Gavitt, kept building and building on what was initially started.

Tranghese did a phenomenal job leading the conference expansion to 16 teams. He was a vital player in the formation of the BCS. Gavitt did a great job getting Tranghese prepared to become a commissioner.

There is no doubt that Tranghese became one of the power players in college athletics. He did everything with a passion and love for intercollegiate athletics. What made him special was his integrity, loyal to his people and his dedication.

He will be missed. Lets hope he is utilized as a consultant along the way by many people within the college athletic community.

Thank you for a job well done. Mike, you gave us some great basketball and football in the Big East. Trust me, you will be missed but you will not be forgotten.

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in December 1979. Send him a question for possible use on ESPNEWS.