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