In a few weeks, I plan on packing up the family pick-up truck (that sounds so West Virginia, doesn’t it?) and head south to Florida. It’s going to be a few days of fun in the sun and relaxation before watching West Virginia take on Georgia Tech in the Gator Bowl.
I’m not quite sure why I purchased tickets to the game. Sure, it’s a good deal. I secured midfield seats in the upper deck for an affordable price. OK, I’ll be eating bread and water for a few days, but it could be worth it. You see, I’ve never seen West Virginia win a bowl game. The Mountaineers are 0-3 when I attend bowl games.
The first one that I attended was in 2002 when West Virginia took on Virginia in the Tire Bowl in Charlotte, N.C. My ex-wife and I headed down and took in the game. We left midway in the fourth quarter, assured of taking the drive of shame, that long drive home knowing you’d pass victorious Virginia fans.
In 2004, we went to Jacksonville, Fla., for the Gator Bowl. Midway through the fourth quarter, again, we were packing up after a loss to Maryland. In 2005, again in the Gator Bowl, this time against Florida State, you guessed it, left in the fourth quarter with a loss assured.
The trip is more about going for some relaxation than it is about going to watch a football game. Don’t get me wrong, the football game is going to be great and I believe the match-up favors West Virginia. But, I need a chance to put the breaks on and say “It’s time to stop for a second.”
After a year of running fast paced and full speed ahead, I need a chance to step back and recharge. This may be the last chance that I get for awhile and I’m taking advantage of it, you can guarantee. I’ll spend a few days with a friend in Tampa and then drive over on the day of the game.
I’m looking forward to this game, the week off, and of course another start to a year in the sun.
