(AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Urban Meyer’s out of left field resignation yesterday sent not ripples but a tsunami throughout the Gator Nation as walled off memories of prior years flooded back: Steve Spurrier’s Surprise followed by the disasterous years of Ron Zook and then Billy D’s bizarre defection to the NBA, quickly recanted in a wave of What Did I Just Do?
Sad? Sure. Concerned? Some. But regardless of future outcome, enormously proud of not just the brand, but the type of brand, he expertly stitched together for the school in just a few short years.
Win at any cost? No. Win with class? Absolutely. Coach Meyer and his recruits redefined championship caliber and in so doing raised the bar for years to come. What a ride its been, especially for those of us who recall the mocking meaning behind “Year of the Gator”, expressed as in wait ’til next year.
Regardless of how the next chapters turn out, alumni now know what its like to be associated with a school athletic program unlikely to be matched again for character and accomplishment. And if it never happens again, at least it happened once. Thanks to a guy named Meyer and to those whose talent he was able to interpret and inspire.
Since posting this comment Coach Meyer reconsidered his resignation to explore a third solution rather than the all or none he’d announced. He’ll use a leave of absence to evaluate his health, his focus and his athletic calling.
I hope he returns. But if he doesn’t, he’ll still have provided my alma mater with the best ride anyone could ask for, and along with Billy D. a solid gold reputation that goes beyond corporate team sports to the very heart of the matter: character, teamwork and accomplishment.