I am sure that by now you have heard about 93K day, and if you haven’t then you probably aren’t likely to read this blog. But just in case you didn’t know, Georgia’s new head football coach, Kirby Smart, has challenged the UGA fan base to pack Sanford stadium with 93,000 people for next week’s annual spring game on Saturday April 16th. At first, this might seem a little ridiculous. I mean 93,000 people to watch a glorified scrimmage? But when you think about it, maybe it’s not ridiculous at all. In fact, it might prove to be a fantastic idea and a new spring tradition here in Athens. Personally, I’m excited about it, and our tailgate group has plans to tailgate on campus before kickoff. At this point, we are expecting over 50 people, but I hope to see more. I know that coming to Athens is not easy or cheap for many families, but if you are a dawg fan then I really hope you can make it happen. With that in mind, I decided to write a blog on the subject, and identify 10 good reasons people should attend G-Day.
- Be a Fan and Be a Good One-The first one is easy enough. Just ask yourself these questions. Are you a dawg fan? Do you love Georgia football? If both your answers are yes then what the hell man? Bring it on!
- New Life in the Program– There is a new man on the job, and in case you hadn’t noticed, he is working his butt off for you. He is working hard to change the culture around the team and the fan base. He needs as much support as he can get. And now he has asked for the support so let’s give it to him.
- Tailgating is Fun– Tailgating is one of the great traditions in college football, especially in the south. It is hard to explain why we enjoy it so much, but we just do. I encouraged my group to tailgate for this game and we are looking forward to it. I encourage you do to the same. I just hope the weather cooperates because it sure didn’t in the fall.
- Athens in the Spring – The game is on April 16th, and April is a damn fine month to be outside. Here in Athens, the azaleas are blooming and the color green has returned. With a little luck, the 16th will be a great day. Or as Jeff Danzler would say, “A Chamber of Commerce Day”.
- Recruiting- Recruiting is crucial to any sport at any school, and recruits want to go where the energy and support are tremendous. There is a good reason the same schools and programs seem to win the most games. It’s because they care the most. I’m not saying that we have to go overboard. But a little more positive energy can go a long way.
- The Cost- You know what else is great about G-Day? It’s free to go in the stadium and watch. It may cost you money to come to Athens, but it won’t cost you anything to get in the stadium. G-Day is a great chance to take your kids in the game and let them enjoy all the hoopla. You don’t need a ticket or a UGA student ID. Just show up.
- New Head Coach and Staff– There is a whole new staff in charge of the team, and next Saturday will be your first chance to see them and the new look of the team. Granted, it won’t be the same as a real game, but it will be worth seeing. In fact, ESPN thinks it is worth televising so why not come see it in person.
- New Recruits and New Players- G-Day is always a great chance to see some ofthe young players. This year many fans will be anxious to see Jacob Eason for the first time. But there are a lot players that the fans have not seen play. For example, the rising sophomore class is always important come spring time because come next fall they are expected to contribute.
- Lots of Things to Do- The G-Day game is not the only activity going on next Saturday. The stadium will open at 1pm, and at 1:15 there will be a UGA alumni flag football game. The Dawg Walk will be at 2:45, and there is rumor of a short pre-game concert. Later in the day, the Diamond Dawgs play South Carolina at Foley Field.
- Get on the Band Wagon or Stay the Hell Off – During the Richt era, we saw some good and some bad. But by the end, too many fans were disinterested and fed up. But there were also fans that supported Richt no matter what. Well next Saturday none of that should matter anymore. It is time for all the fans to get on the same page. And next Saturday is a great day to start. Look at it this way. There is no way that Georgia can lose.
In closing, be a good fan and come have a good time. Go Dawgs!
Link to G Day Information G Day Information