OK. I said it. Losing a few football games is not the end of the world!

My son is a Senior at the University of Georgia and like most students, he sits in the student section at all the home games and supports his Dawgs.  He was hoping for a winning season; but right now, the Dawgs aren't doing so well.  UGA is currently 1-3.  One only has to read the local sports section to understand that there are a lot of unhappy fans out there.  So the Dawgs may not have a winning season.  They may not even go to a bowl game this year.  But more important than football ....

Will the players (and other students associated with the football program) stay focused on their studies in spite of their losses?   

You may be a football enthusiast.  But for the students that are part of the football program, they are also pursuing their educational goals.  While they want their team to win every football game, it won't be the worst thing that will happen if they don't have a winning season.  Ensuring the players receive their college degrees must outweigh a couple of hours playing football on Saturdays in the fall.  Except for a rare few who may end up playing football professionally, winning a game over Arkansas or South Carolina will only be memories discussed with their families over Thanksgiving dinner in ten or twenty years.  Finishing school will impact their livelihood for years to come. 

Education first and football second.  Let's not lose sight in what is really important.  

College sports give many players the opportunity to continue their education through scholarships.  It boosts the town's revenue when there are home games.  A college athletic program does have its advantages.  But losing a few games is not the end of the world.  Sports fans, get a grip.  There is always next year.  Pull for your Dawgs and enjoy the popcorn, beer, and the opportunity to scream at the TV for a few hours.  But in the end, let's be sure that these players get educated and do well in life in spite of losing a few games of football.

Go Dawgs!!