BYU Women's Football Clinic

Marcus's dream came true when he said, "Jenny, sign ups for this year's BYU Women's Football Clinic are beginning. You should go," and I replied, "Ok." "Really?" He was so excited. The stipulation was that I found someone to go with me. I'm not that die hard of a fan that I'd go to this clinic alone. So, Telisha Packard, a friend from here at BYU, signed up with me. For $25 I was guaranteed a "free" t-shirt, tour of the stadium, and time with the coaches and players. As thrilling as this sounds, when yesterday, the day of the clinic, rolled around, the last thing I wanted to do was go. Samantha's been rough, to say the least, and I didn't think I had the energy to go. Marcus told me I didn't have to go, trying to ease my pain, but how could I not? "No, I do have to go. We paid 25 bucks. I can't waste that." So, I reluctantly went.

Four hours later, I came through the door and told Marcus that was the best $25 he had ever spent on me! I loved it! I highly recommend every woman, who has the chance, attend next year's clinic. It was so so so fun. During those 4 hours, we ...

toured the press box * toured the stadium locker room * shook Bronco's hand * got Bronco's signature on my "free" shirt * got Max Hall's too * listened to Bronco speak to us * Q&A with Bronco * Q&A with about 10 players * ate a sandwich and BYU's yummy mint brownies * ran drills with coaches and players * received tips from Coach Tidwell, Hill, Doman (yes, Brandon Doman), Weber, and Reynolds -- and players -- I don't remember all of who was there

Maybe it doesn't sound thrilling to all, but it was. Take my word for it. The oldest woman there was 88 years old! Holy cow! I was impressed. This year was the highest attending camp with a count of 450 women. I'm sure there will be more next year, and if we would be in Provo next year, I'd be there. My biggest regret of the entire evening was not having my camera. So sorry, no great pictures of us with Unga, Pitta, Nixon, or Hall.

Besides running the drills (and being told I had the best 3 point stance in the camp -- thank you Coach Weber and Tidwell) the best part of the clinic was listening to Bronco speak. He is inspiring. I am impressed with his attitude and his outlook on football. The actual game is secondary to how he wants his players to be as men. He's a man of integrity, and I really believe that as he is instilling lessons of character in his players, he's not only creating great football players, but extraordinary leaders who represent the church. I appreciate and respect him for it. This makes me even sadder to leave Provo and miss the football season next year. I can't imagine how Marcus must be feeling if I'm sad. I have to admit, I never quite understood his obsession with BYU football. It's just a game. I've always loved going to the games, but really, when the game was over, that was it for me. But last night, at the end of the camp when we were watching the 2007 highlight video as we sat on the field, I got goosebumps, and I think I kind of get it. It's more than a game. Well, I guess we'll just have to find out who, in our new ward, has Dish Network and invite ourselves over for the games! That may be awkward, but it may just be worth it.