A negative view of college football is that the too much money is spent on the athletes, their schooling is curved in favor of the teams importance, and that there is just too much emphasis on the games themselves. The Texas Longhorns are not just another football team. Yes a lot of time and money go into the the practices, games, and equipment but a lot of time and money go toward maintaining involvement with the community and its diverse range of fans. The Longhorns show respect, encouragement, support, and a heart for the community that gives to their efforts too.
As of late, the football team and other Longhorn sports have been supporting research for breast cancer during the month of October in a program called Horns for Hope. A past member of the football team, Ryan Russo, was personally affected by this cause. His mother was diagnosed with cancer his sophomore year of college with an aggressive form. Although sick she continued to visit in Austin, attend games and eventually the cancer was treated. Although he has graduated he continues to run in Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and encourages others to do so too.
The teams want to educate the largest crowds possible and have incorporated ways of doing so like hosting rallies and special practices. Pink UT Longhorn shirts were printed as a means to make money for the cause and to make more people aware of the program. To learn more about Horns for Hope visit the Texas Athletics website at http://www.texassports.com/.
On another note the football team welcomed the 163rd Battalion from Fort Hood to practice this past Wednesday. These soldiers have been stationed in Iraq and were excited about attending. Derek Lokey, who played a major part in setting up the invitation, said "I'm just honored they wanted to come to practice because they're the real heroes." It is a really unique way to show the soldiers that they appreciate what they are doing for our country and a way to provide them with something fun to do in the Austin community. The experience was really great for the soldiers who have been long time Longhorn fans. The soldiers were actually able to watch some of the games in Iraq and flew a flag after one of the games that they presented to Coach Brown. Coach Brown said "Because of their fight for freedom, it allows us to play a game."
Last week the Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas came to the practice of the Texas Longhorns football team. Suzanne Shepherd, a board member of the association, said "For our community to have this opportunity to meet and take a picture with them is tremendously inspiring to us." The players really enjoyed getting to know all the kids, it was such a great experience for the team and for the children.
The Longhorns are not just another football team with players who are all about the fame and the game, they are dedicated members of society who act as role models and try to reach out to all members of the community. Longhorns give back.
