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Current Issues With Dr. Phillips

Current Issues With Dr. Phillips

Nov. 22, 2005

The true strength of Clemson’s football program is its people. That is evidenced in many ways. For example, our attendance this year has been excellent.

The tailgating atmosphere here is indicative of great spirit — people enjoying one another. I have come to fully realize and appreciate that game day at Clemson is more than just a football game to our people. They truly enjoy being at Clemson, being with friends and making new acquaintances.

Inside the stadium their spirit and support has been tremendous. Their support has allowed our team to be in each and every game this season. I think it is noteworthy that Tommy Bowden has thanked our fans after each home game.

It is noticeable that when we have the ball, our people tone it down to help our offense. When we do not, there is considerable noise cheering on our defense. Fans give an opportunity to get better and play at the highest level.

Our football team is challenged every year, of course. This year, however, university President Jim Barker challenged our fans before the season to show good sportsmanship and to welcome visitors to our campus. And our supporters responded to that and have shown great sportsmanship to our visitors.

For our game with Florida State, I saw a sign in a parking lot that read: Welcome Florida State Fans.

In another phase of our program, we have good support from our people in fund-raising for our WestZone construction project. I believe our fans know that project is the cornerstone of improvement with our football program and the total sports program.

As a result of that construction project, our fans faced new parking challenges this year. With their cooperation, parking lot problems have been kept to a minimum. I am thankful for their patience and understanding.

I would be remiss if I did not mention that we have had people working here for many years who have provided an environment and setting that people enjoy. I want to express appreciation to our people on campus, in the community, and all contracted services who help create and manage this outstanding game-day atmosphere at Clemson.

We have good people here who work hard. They have provided an enjoyable time for our fans. That is one of the reasons that people enjoy coming back year after year. We are fortunate.

In Solid Orange,Terry Don Phillips

Past ColumnsNovember 16, 2005November 9, 2005November 1, 2005October 25, 2005October 19, 2005October 11, 2005October 4, 2005September 26, 2005September 21, 2005September 5, 2005August 23, 2005August 4, 2005July 26, 2005June 28, 2005May 23, 2005April 25, 2005April 4, 2005March 16, 2005February 23, 2005February 15, 2005February 9, 2005February 1, 2005January 25, 2005January 18, 2005January 11, 2005January 6, 2005December 15, 2004December 7, 2004November 30, 2004November 17, 2004November 10, 2004November 3, 2004October 26, 2004October 21, 2004October 11, 2004October 4, 2004

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