University of Nevada Las Vegas

Athletic Department Staff (1985-2016)

Fondly known as “Pooch,” Paul Pucciarelli was an innovator in his field while serving in the athletics equipment department for more than three decades. He first came to the Rebels as UNLV football was in Fresno under head coach Harvey Hyde preparing to play in the California Bowl against Toledo. Two seasons after becoming full-time, Pucciarelli moved into the role as head of equipment and was named Director of Equipment in 1999. A leader in his profession, his final title was Assistant Athletics Director for Equipment & Purchasing as he had elevated his position into one that oversaw the not just the management of equipment but also directing the business side of outfitting all 17 Rebel sports programs. Serving under eight head football coaches, he will forever be credited with working with legendary head man John Robinson in introducing the now-famous UNLV arch logo after Robinson was hired at the school in 1999. After 31 seasons, which included seeing him design and manage the equipment center in the Lied Athletic Complex during the mid-1990s, Pooch retired in 2016 and earned Emeritus status, which is provided by the campus to recognize distinguished service to the University. Now, after making countless players, coaches and staff look good in Rebel Red, Pucciarelli is set to wear the high of honor of being a new member of the UNLV Athletics Hall of Fame.