It’s early and I’m out here the porch, thinking about Shawn. Up to now, I’ve tended to focus more on the way things ended last year, with sadness and regret. But Coach Clark and his teams provided some amazing accomplishments I’ll always cherish.
Many will point to winning in College Station, hosting College Gameday, or “Miracle on the Mountain #2” when we beat Troy that day as their favorites.
My cherished memory was on October 21st, 2023. Shawn was speaking to the team after a tough loss at ODU. The team had suffered other tough losses up to that point (UNC, Wyoming, Coastal) and the wheels could’ve easily come off. If you can find it, listen to Shawn’s speech to the team after that game.
That was the turning point for the entire season: the team bought into his plan, kept grinding and went on to win six of the last seven, including the Cure mud bowl in Orlando. No, we didn’t end the season ranked or win the SBC. But for me, it was a magical season and I’ll always be grateful to Shawn and the team for those memories.
Prayers for Coach Clark
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Bootsy
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AEwiththebraids
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Re: Prayers for Coach Clark
I've been busy with class but once I get a second, I plan to either get some chalk and draw a big 61 outside the rock. Or spray paint in the tunnel.
Re: Prayers for Coach Clark
Beautiful post, Bootsy.
My favorite memory, and one that keeps repeating in my mind, was the on-field interview after the JMU win at their place the same year. Coach said that the Conference championship "still runs through Boone" and reflected on the belief the team had in itself that was built after that ODU game. His wife, son and daughter were next to him, beaming. Seeing his daughter fighting back tears, full of pride and love for her father, was so touching. I have a daughter her age. Thinking about it now hits me so hard. God bless his family.
My favorite memory, and one that keeps repeating in my mind, was the on-field interview after the JMU win at their place the same year. Coach said that the Conference championship "still runs through Boone" and reflected on the belief the team had in itself that was built after that ODU game. His wife, son and daughter were next to him, beaming. Seeing his daughter fighting back tears, full of pride and love for her father, was so touching. I have a daughter her age. Thinking about it now hits me so hard. God bless his family.