Former UM safety Ray Vinopal will transfer to Pittsburgh

3/24/2011
BY RYAN AUTULLO
BLADE SPORTS WRITER

Former University of Michigan safety Ray Vinopal will transfer to Pittsburgh, according to a newspaper report and postings on Vinopal’s Facebook page.

The news comes a day after Michigan coach Brady Hoke revealed Vinopal had departed the program because of family reasons.

At Pittsburgh, Vinopal will be reunited with former Michigan defensive backs coach Tony Gibson, who was hired this offseason to oversee Pitt’s cornerbacks. Two other former Michigan assistants, Calvin Magee (co-offensive coordinator) and Tony Dews (tight ends), have also joined the staff of new Pitt head coach Todd Graham. 

Vinopal’s hometown newspaper, The Vindicator of Youngstown, first reported news of the transfer Thursday morning.

In response to a commenter on his Facebook page, Vinopal wrote, “I’m headed to Pitt to play ball.”

Vinopal started the final six games of the 2010 season as a true freshman. He had 33 tackles and one interception.