Actually there was nothing wrong at all this weekend but I figure many of you would not read this if it sounded like I had something positive to say about athletics. I have never been so impressed with UTC on game day. From the minute everything started at the field things were smooth. Not smooth in that nothing went wrong, but smooth in that surprises and unexpected issues were solved quickly and simply. The field staff and crew were tight and professional, security was present, effective and polite, and the UTC staff fit right in with the Finley Staff. The feeling that it was going to be a good day was present before the game even started. Who knows how much weight these types of things carry on game day but I am a person who believes in such things and believe that UTC set the field for a “W” and Rodney Allison delivered. 

I can say with certainty to all other faculty members who might have experienced hesitation in the past with regards to supporting these events, that you should come out and see a game. The crowd is there, the feeling is there, the organization is there. We had a big time atmosphere, a big time staff, and a big time game. UTC has arrived, and I was very proud when I left.

Don Harris did excellent work with promotions and they fit with little disturbance into the flow of the game. I should not have singled Don out as all of the AD staff worked very well together and with others but Don is the person who has the unfortunate task of being the closest to my toes when it comes to time and some of you know that I can be a little forthright on occasion. So Don… in public and in front of everyone… good job.  I'm still playing whatever I want though. 

Could it be that we are starting to find our identity? Who knows? What I do know is that I enjoy watching people work that are good at their jobs and Saturday was full of great examples. From the skybox, to the gates, to the field, to the players, UTC was a shinning example of efficiency and a fan friendly experience. If you do not come out next time you will miss much.

Stuart

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