Longtime trainer Weber takes on new role with UA
After serving as the Arkansas Razorbacks head trainer for 35 years, Dean Weber is moving to a new role within the athletics department as Director of Equipment Operations, according to a UA press release.
Since coming to the UA in 1973 from North Carolina, where he served as Dean Smith's basketball trainer, Weber had a unique working relationship with players, coaches and even the media.
Weber exercised tough love with the athletes as well as a dry, cutting wit that made him very popular.
When returning to visit after graduation, some players avoided seeing certain coaches, but many players made a special effort to visit with Weber, who always worked with the player's best interest at heart.
The coaches that Weber worked for from Frank Broyles, Lou Holtz, Ken Hatfield, Jack Crowe, Joe Kines and Danny Ford all praised Weber for his ability to return injured players to the field in an efficient but safe manner.
Weber only tolerated the media. His goal and a reporter's were rarely congruent. But as a member of the media, one had to respect his ability, care for the athletes and loyalty to the coaches and the program.
Thank you, Mr. Weber.