What Does This All Mean?

This Spring a record 22 NFL scouts came to campus for JMU’s pro day. Last weekend two Dukes were selected in the NFL Draft. Four more will head to camps after signing free-agent deals. Those are good numbers for a FBS program. For an FCS program they’re extraordinary. So the obvious question is, what does this all mean for the JMU football program? Obvious questions usually have obvious answers. In this case, I think it’s clear that this is going to be a big boost to recruiting.

Mickey Matthews has already proven that he can bring talent to the ‘Burg. He’s been doing it for years. His recruiting pitch has probably focused on selling kids on joining a winning program that is 82-50 under his leadership. At a school that is fully behind the football program and is building what will unquestionably be the best stadium in FCS football. A program that has won a National Championship and plays in the premier FCS conference in the land. A conference who’s members have won 4 National Championships in the past 7 years. Now you’re telling me that Matthews can also sell recruits on the fact that the program is on the NFL’s radar and players have a legit shot at going pro? Things are about to get really interesting.

So, now the question is, what does this mean to all of us? It means that now is the time to get on board and fully support the program. And it just so happens that we have three great ways to do that. Join the Duke Club, order season tickets, and for those of you in the NoVa/DC area, go to the Coaches Caravan.

Todd and I both finally became season ticket holders last season. Looking back, we have no idea why it took us so long. Season tickets are a relative bargain coming in at about the cost of a ticket to a single NFL game. And for you old guys who might be skeptical, it is nothing like when we were in school. There is tailgating. Great tailgating and even better football. So go buy your tickets. But guys, don’t try to be cool and sit on the student side because you “like to party” and “hang out with hot chicks”. You ever have a college girl call you cougar or DILF? No, right? Because those words don’t exist in their lexicon. They think you are creepy. And you know what? So does everyone else. Just sit with the rest of us old guys and enjoy the game.

Finally, all of you in the NOVA/DC area should go to the Coaches Caravan at Boulevard Woodgrill on May 6. This is basically a happy hour with a chance to chat with some fellow JMU fans, coaches, & athletes. It’s sponsored by the NOVA Duke Club and there is going to be a great silent auction where you can bid on football tickets, a chance to “run through the smoke” with the team into Bridgeforth, autographed helmets and more. Plus Todd and I will be there. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Email novadukeclub@gmail.com for more info and we’ll see you there.