Player Appreciation

[drew003]

Sometimes I think we fans forget the amount of personal sacrifice it takes to play football at Iowa. Certainly there are perks, but it take diligence to do early morning, year-round conditioning, film study, intense in-season practice schedule, spring ball, and I'm sure other commitments fans don't even know about. Meanwhile these kids are going through their formative years (18-23) in the public eye and their decisions are publicized. All the while they must also be students.

Some guys get a lot attention, playing time, and NFL careers. But other guys stayed the course for 4-5 years to simply play a roll on the team. Kids like Sandeman, Cheney, Troy Johnson, Koeppel, Hangman, O'Mera, Nordman, and numerous others I can't think of the top of my head. I'm sure it wasn't always easy, but as a fan I appreciate their efforts. Hopefully it was a rewarding experience and benefits these kids in their futures.

 

[imported_ankle23]

To be a student-athlete is a tough gig. To those who do it, and do it well, hats off.

 

[clim33]

Great points. I think it is guys like those mentioned above that really help drive sustainable results year after year. Kind of the "Rudy's" of Iowa Football. Work hard and make the great players greater.

Hats off to all the student athletes who have gotten the grades and stayed out of trouble.

Thanks for the great effort

 

[sergeanthulka]

+1 - and throw Jayme Murphy into the mix.

That's why, despite a program that appears to be in disarray, I will always be jacked up for Senior Day & for a bowl game. And, strangely, the meaning of it seems to sink in as I get older. It may or not be true, but I choose to believe that the vast majority of these young men are quality people - pouring their heart & soul into something that gives 4 generations in my family - another reason to come together. In the grand scheme of things, it's probably somewhat absurd & unexplainable. It's also why it hurts so bad when a player falls short of our high expectations...

Through thick & thin...love the Hawks!!!

 

[BALDIES7980]

IMO names are not needed. Having a scholarship athlete in my home makes it very easy to appreciate the time and effort it takes to compete.
THANKS! to all of them for the effort and disruption to their lives. And hopefully they all enjoy their time in thesport and hopefully it gives an advantage in their life.

 

[MoseSchrute]

Real big pat on the back to the guys who do all the work, and never get to play. They are still making the team better; but man, would that be hard.