Random comments from Meet the Jacks.
First, to get the bad out of the way, the knee injury that Alize Ward suffered was really, really bad, bordering on gruesome. It was much more than a "simple" MCL or ACL as described by Carthel while visiting with him after the event. Not only is Ward out for the season, but this could be career threatening. Recovery is 15-18 months. Hate it for the young man that probably was going to get drafted. Of course, tough for the team also. Ward was described as not being just the leader of the defense, but the leader of the team. It was a non contact injury.
Onward. It was a very well attended event. The Rotary Club and the Fredonia Hotel did an excellent job. This is our first, so I don't have previous experience to compare it to. Ivey and Carthel are consistent in message and passion. They are both very comfortable in front of a crowd, and working a crowd. The seniors were introduced and brought on stage. Ward, of course, was not there. Josh Weeks, the grad transfer TE from UTEP was not there. Don't know why.
We sat with three players. Two true freshmen and one sophomore transfer. They are a long snapper, OL, and a kicker. Very consistent comments from all three. They love Carthel and the staff. They speak highly of Ivey, so that means he is around. Spoke well of Sports Performance including S&C and nutrition. Part of east college cafeteria was set aside just for the athletes. They recalled fried food being available once. No pizza, etc. The trip to the Texans game was a very much appreciated experience. All three young men were engaging, answering and asking questions.
It was good having Larry Centers there. He is not a polished public speaker, but he did fine.
I know there was at least one other participant in this forum in attendance. Comments about what I have missed are appreciated.