Disability Awareness Week on Campus

It was Disability Awareness Week on campus this week. I've attended Disability Awareness events in the past on campus but really  didn't realize the significance of the event. I just knew there was free food and prizes on campus one day and I was all for it. This year was different. I'm grateful that attending this event was extra credit for a couple of my classes this year because I probably wouldn't have known about it. I am rarely at the heart of the campus nowadays being a senior and all and having all my classes in the Coliseum. However, I am glad that I got a chance to participate. There were a lot more vendors and tables this year than in the past and also a lot more people getting involved. I participated in making a pbj blind folded, wheeling myself up a steep hill to get a lunch tray and wheeling back down, and a full court wheel chair basketball game. The wheel chair basketball game by far was my favorite. I had a lot of fun, but at the same time it made you realize how much different life is for people with disabilities. I have a new found respect for people with disabilities and appreciate their toughness and getting through the day despite their disability.

University of West Georgia Homecoming! Valdosta vs UWG?

West Georgia Wolves

West Georgia Braves

In 2005, my freshman year at West Georgia, I was introduced to a new city, new people, a new football culture, and  most of all a new rivalry in Valdosta States football team. Valdosta State had always been a premier football program in the GSC and at the D-II level period. From my first day at football camp I was made aware of how deep the Valdosta State vs. UWG rivalry was . It was like the theme for motivation for the entire season. The Blazers were coming off a 13-1 2004 season, and reigning NCAA D-II National Football Champions. We finally face off the final game of the season. The final score, West Georgia 29- Valdosta State 15. We knocked them off their high horse. We won that Peach Basket.The attendance at the game was 5,616, full house I assume. Unfortunately I was red shirted and didn't travel with the team. Nonetheless, I felt every bit a part of the win. Blood, Sweat, and Tears was shed on that practice field  with this team. That 2005 West Georgia Brave football team was special and I applaud every single one of them and was glad to have been a part of it and a part of West Georgia history.

I said all that to say this. Was the decision to play West Georgia's arch rival Valdosta State on Homecoming a good decision? Its a known trend that you play a sub par team for the easy win to compliment with the homecoming festivities. I was anxious to see the result of the game and the show out of the crowd. I only got to see 15 minutes of the game because I had to work. However, it was a great turnout and it was a clear, sunny, cool day. I'm sure West Georgia did well in ticket sales for this game. Speaking of ticket sales, thats one element that makes this decision a good one. Knowing that West Georgia beat Valdosta last season in a tough 23-20 bout, in addition to knowing its the most anticipated game of the season,why not schedule them on homecoming?
When I got off of work and found out the final score of the game I was shocked to see they got beat 42-7.   http://www.uwgsports.com/news/2012/10/6/FB_1006121205.aspx?path=football
I wish I could have stayed so I could give my own personal analysis of the game, but the bills have to be paid.lol. Despite the ugly homecoming loss, it was a good homecoming week.You can't beat catching up with old friends, football, and good food fresh off the grill.