Morris, other UA coaches in Omaha to lend support

Arkansas coach Chad Morris watches his players Saturday, March 10, 2018, during practice at the university practice field in Fayetteville.

— Chad Morris always wanted to experience the College World Series.

He got an up-close view of the stadium Monday night, but he'll have to wait for another day to see a game in Omaha after Arkansas' game against Oregon State was postponed until Tuesday.

"I always wanted to come here and I’m obviously a big fan of college athletics this time of year," Morris said. "You could be on vacation somewhere and you’d be watching it on TV, but this is incredible.

"Kind of what I felt all along since I got here is that there’s so much passion and excitement, then you put this fan base in this setting, it’s above and beyond what anyone could imagine. This place is cardinal red and it’s incredible."

Morris was one of several Arkansas faithful in the ballpark Monday night. An eyeball estimate from the press box showed Arkansas red outnumbered Oregon State orange by about 10-to-1.

In addition to Morris, Arkansas gymnastics coach Mark Cook, women's golf coach Shauna Taylor and swim coach Neil Harper were seated in a suite with UA chancellor Joseph Steinmetz. Morris said he can't attend Tuesday's game, but a spokesperson said Arkansas basketball coach Mike Anderson is scheduled to make the trip. Anderson also was in attendance for Friday's semifinal game against Florida.

"We’re just excited about coming out and supporting as we have all year long," Morris said. "But to be able to come on this stage and lend our support for what Coach (Dave) Van Horn has done and what this team has done has been phenomenal.

"I’ve just texted him (Van Horn). He and I have been texting back and forth and just wishing him luck. I’m trying not to bother him. I know what it’s like to be in those situations. It’s just a quick, simple text and he’s just been gracious enough every time I’ve texted him to text me right back. I just want him to know we’re all supporting and pulling for you."

Morris said the baseball success has helped in generating exposure to football recruits.

"We’re in a dead period right now, but what it’s done for us has gotten our logo out nationwide," Morris said. "On a grand stage like this, so many recruits are blowing up my phone over and over and over. ‘Coach, are you there? What’s it like?’ It’s been really neat to get the exposure out."