Ross, Ireland give billion reasons to re-hire Sparano

BY NICK ST. DENIS

The Miami Dolphins fired coach Tony Sparano Monday, holding a press conference with owner Stephen Ross and general manager Jeff Ireland to officially announce the termination and answer questions.

In doing so, Ross and Ireland convinced us all that Sparano is the perfect fit for the Dolphins' vacant coaching position.

Here are some quotes from the press conference:

Stephen Ross:

"(Todd Bowles) will replace Tony Sparano who really has been a wonderful person. He’s done a wonderful job with the Miami Dolphins. And it’s a lot of regret that I feel..."

"Tony has really worked tirelessly for this team. He’s built a great foundation. I think the team as you all know by the record is not indicative of I think what the team is capable of. The foundation is there to build a winning team."

"Tony has also, I got to tell you, I’ve never met a man who really loves his players and really is committed to these players. I think he really tried in the best way he could to develop the Miami Dolphins."

"As you know Tony has put his heart and soul in this team."

"It’s always a tough decision when you try to replace a good man. Tony is really what I would call an excellent man and certainly has put a total effort into this position."

"I think Tony (Sparano) gave his full effort. I think the results speak for themselves."

Jeff Ireland:

"I think you’re looking for the best candidate out there, a guy that’s been in the trenches before for some of the same qualities that I saw in Tony (Sparano)."

"... it’s a difficult day for me. He’s a friend of mine. He’s been a colleague of mine from before we got here together. And I’m not happy about being a part of this decision."

"My hat's off to Tony Sparano for building that foundation he developed a lot of players around here, we did a lot of good things together."

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