The auditorium erupted into applause no more than five words into Mark Coyle’s first time talking to the media as Syracuse University’s newest athletic director.
“Are you more a like Jake Crouthamel or Daryl Gross?” a reporter asked, referring to the past two Syracuse athletic directors.
“I’m more like Mark Coyle,” he said confidently, which led to a deafening roar of cheers.
The 10th athletic director in school history spoke to the media, Board of Trustees, members of SU administration and Orange head coaches for about 15 minutes on Monday morning. He discussed the state of Syracuse football as well as inheriting a basketball program marred by NCAA sanctions.