Virginia Tech Coach Frank Beamer Starring As A Pitchman For Local Companies

Virginia Tech football coach Frank Beamer "has become the area's No. 1 pitchman of products," and he "comes off as a likable salesman whom people trust," according to Randy King of the ROANOKE TIMES. Beamer is "pushing everything from wireless communication services to leaf-free guttering systems." Roanoke-based PR firm Access Inc. President Todd Marcum said, "You virtually never find anyone who doesn't like Frank Beamer ... even the dyed-in-the-wool UVa fan. Is he the greatest actor? He's not bad ... I've seen a lot worse college coaches. His true value is his sincerity." Virginia Gutter Inc. has "seen sales soar since launching TV commercials the past year with Beamer as spokesman." The company's owner, Ryan Boitnott, said, "I think he is the No. 1 celebrity in the state of Virginia. And he's not controversial, like a politician would be or somebody else. ... It's unbelievable, the response I've got from having him as a spokesman." Among his appearances, Beamer has "starred in three 30-second spots for Waynesboro-based nTelos." Beamer said of being a spokesperson, "To be honest with you, I don't feel very natural at that. I don't think that's one of my real, real pluses." But King notes the "results have been overwhelmingly positive." Steve Treser, creator of Camp Sauce, a meat and vegetable marinade, said, "Our sales have about doubled because of Frank" (ROANOKE TIMES, 9/30). The chart below lists Beamer's sponsors.