Did you know that “9 Fun Facts About Hotdogs” states that “According to the National Hot Dog and Service Council, Americans purchase 9 billion hot dogs per year from grocery stores.” “In addition and including the hot dogs that are consumed at restaurants or ballparks, the NHDSC estimates that the total number of hot dogs consumed in one year would be approximately 20 billion hot dogs.
Another interesting fact is that the most expensive hot dog costs $2,300 and can be found at the 230 Fifth Restaurant located in New York City. This luxurious hot dog is made out of top-quality ingredients, including Japanese wagyu beef, and topped with onions, caviar, and sauerkraut. This hot dog also has to be ordered at least 48 hours in advance.
During peak hot dog season, which is from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Americans are expected to consume 7 billion hot dogs. According to “ 25 Hot Dot Facts for 25 Years,” states that “ On Independence Day, Americans are expected to enjoy 150 million hot dogs which will stretch from D.C. to L.A. more than five times.”
A standard beef hot dog consists of 190 calories, offers 7 grams of protein, and 30 percent of the daily value of vitamin B12. The longest hot dog known to date was 668 feet which are long enough to stretch over two football fields. The average weight of a fully loaded baseball park hot dog vendor’s bin is 40 pounds, and baseball parks first started selling hot dogs back in 1893.
In conclusion, hot dogs are one of the most popular foods to eat and have been around for thousands of years.
The 2008 College World Series was one of the most improbable and inspiring stories in college baseball history. It featured a Cinderella team that defied all odds and expectations to win the national championship.
That team was Fresno State, a No. 4 seed in the regionals that barely made the postseason with a 33-27 record. The Bulldogs had to overcome injuries, adversity, and powerhouse opponents to achieve their dream.
They started their journey by upsetting No. 1 seed Long Beach State and No. 2 seed San Diego in the Long Beach Regional. Then they stunned No. 3 national seed Arizona State in the Tempe Super Regional, winning two out of three games on the road.
They arrived in Omaha as the lowest-seeded team to ever make the College World Series. They were dubbed the “underdogs to wonderdogs” by their fans and media.
But they were not done yet. They faced No. 6 national seed Rice in their first game and won 17-5, scoring 11 runs in the fifth inning. They then beat No. 2 national seed North Carolina 5-3, thanks to a clutch two-run homer by Steve Detwiler in the eighth inning.
They lost their next game to Georgia 4-3, but bounced back with a 19-10 rout of Rice in an elimination game. Detwiler hit two more homers and drove in six runs in that game.
They advanced to the best-of-three championship series against Georgia, a No. 8 national seed that had won its first three games in Omaha.
The Bulldogs lost the first game 7-6, despite rallying from a 5-0 deficit and taking a 6-5 lead in the eighth inning. Georgia scored two runs in the bottom of the eighth to retake the lead and held on for the win.
The Bulldogs faced elimination again in the second game, but they did not give up. They scored six runs in the second inning and never looked back, winning 19-10. Detwiler hit his fourth homer of the series and drove in four runs, while Tommy Mendonca hit his record-tying fourth homer of the College World Series.
The stage was set for a winner-take-all game three on June 25, 2008, at Rosenblatt Stadium.
The Bulldogs took an early 2-0 lead in the first inning on a two-run single by Alan Ahmady. Georgia tied it up with two runs in the third inning on a double by Gordon Beckham and a single by Rich Poythress.
The Bulldogs regained the lead with two runs in the fourth inning on a sacrifice fly by Danny Muno and an RBI single by Erik Wetzel. Georgia cut it to 4-3 with a run in the fifth inning on a sacrifice fly by Matt Olson.
The Bulldogs added an insurance run in the sixth inning on a solo homer by Detwiler, his fifth of the series and his third of the championship series. He became the first player to hit five homers in a College World Series.
The Bulldogs held on to their 5-3 lead until the ninth inning when Georgia threatened to tie or win the game. The Bulldogs brought in their closer, Brandon Burke, who had saved four games in the postseason.
Burke gave up a leadoff single to Olson, who advanced to second on a wild pitch. He then struck out Bryce Massanari for the first out. He walked Lyle Allen to put runners on first and second. He then got Joey Lewis to pop out to second for the second out.
The final batter was pinch-hitter Robbie O’Bryan, who represented the go-ahead run for Georgia. Burke got ahead of him with two strikes, then threw a slider that O’Bryan swung at and missed.
Strike three. Game over. Fresno State had done it.
The Bulldogs stormed out of their dugout and piled on Burke near the mound, celebrating their historic achievement. They had become the first No. 4 seed to win the College World Series and only the second team from outside a power conference to do so since 1954.
They had also set several records along the way, including the most home runs (14), most runs (84), and most hits (115) by a team in a College World Series.
They had also captured the hearts of baseball fans across the nation with their grit, determination, and joy.
Grant Johnson is a senior here at Defiance College and will be graduating with a degree in Molecular Biology and a minor in Chemistry. Aside from being an exemplary student, he is also involved in just about everything possible on campus. He plays basketball, is a part of SAAC, FCA, APO, the Service Leaders Program, the Campus Activities Board, is the Senior Representative on Student Senate, is an RA, and a Student Ambassador. Grant also recently joined the Defiance College Men’s Choir. And if that wasn’t enough, he also started a podcast called Three Dudes in Their Twenties with his two friends Adam Tobin and Will Garlock in his spare time. I would like to know what kind of coffee he drinks because that stuff is magical.
When I sat down to talk with him, Grant said that if he had to describe himself in one word, it would be grateful. He said that “a lot of small things have built up through my life and I can reflect back on those.” He went on to talk a little bit about his academic career and how much he is grateful for the professors and staff that have helped him, as well as all the coaches that have made his time here at Defiance College the best experience it could be. Grant also talked about the amazing experiences such as his McMaster trip to Panama or being on the basketball team.
Because he’s a senior, Grant had a chance to reflect on some of his favorite memories, but also some of his mistakes or things that he wished he had done differently. When I asked him if he could give advice to his freshman self, he said that “there is a lot of sacrifice and dedication, which I was already used to doing throughout my life, but I would just emphasize to myself to be ready to wake up everyday and not everything go perfect. Just keep being determined on your journey and keep your goals in the back of your mind through it all.” Grant certainly did keep his goals in mind because he just released yesterday that he will be attending the Ohio University Heritage College of Medicine, so if you see him, make sure to say congratulations!
As he starts saying goodbye to Defiance College and all the students, faculty, and staff, he wants to say thank you to everyone he’s met here and for all the experiences he’s had here. He wants to thank the college for “everything it’s done for me. It’s really shaped who I’ve become to this day, and I think it’s really going to propel me through my future life and future career, whether that’s my profession or all the above. Father, Husband, all those things. All I can say is I was happy to be a part of Defiance College. I’m really thankful.”
As always, come to graduation on May 13 to support Grant and his fellow seniors as they
celebrate the hard work they’ve put in over the last four years!
Junior Riley Alcorn catches a pop fly against Alma College.
Defiance College 7 vs Alma College 6
The Defiance College Yellow Jackets took on Alma College in a midweek double header at Sal Hench Field. In the first of two games Alma took the lead in their first at bat in the top of the inning, Danielle Dumoulin doubled to score Taylor Griffith and then Julia Duncan reached first on an error that scored Danielle Dumoulin (2-0). The Yellow Jackets tied the game at two in the bottom of the first inning. Junior Brooke Silcox hit a sacrifice fly that scored senior Marissa Roberts on an error by Alma (2-1). Then freshman Ali Mowen reached first on an error and then advanced to second while senior Josilyn Guzman scored (2-2). Brooke Silcox added to Defiance’s lead by smashing a homerun over the fence in left center (2-3). Alma regained the lead in the fifth inning after Aynslee Kountz hit a home run over the left field fence to score herself and Taylor Griffith (4-3). Again the Yellow Jackets answered in the bottom of the fifth inning. Senior Lily Linke was walked with bases loaded forcing sophomore Kelly Limbaugh to score (4-4). Then Ali Mowen drove the ball up the middle for a single that scored Josilyn Guzman and Brooke Silcox (6-4). Alma scored in the sixth inning off of a wild pitch that scored Avery Vos (6-5). Alma tied the game in the top of the seventh inning Emma Frasier reached on a fielder’s choice that scored Aynslee Kountz (6-6). In the bottom of the seventh inning Defiance regained their lead to end the game. Ali Mowen reached on a fielder’s choice that scored Brooke Silcox (6-7). The Yellow Jackets had five hits in the contest including a double from Marissa Roberts and a homerun by Brooke Silcox. Laney Grimwood, Ali Mowen, and Marissa Roberts each had one while Brooke Silcox recorded two. Josilyn Guzman and Laney Grimwood each had a stolen base as well. Two pitchers saw action in the first contest of the day. Starting pitcher junior Riley Alcorn went 4.1 innings in the circle for Defiance facing 20 batters. She threw 90 pitches and 56 strikes. The next Yellow Jacket pitcher was junior Savannah McCoy who tossed 2.2 innings and faced 12 batters. She threw 53 pitches with 35 of those falling into the zone.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Alma (Mich.)
2
0
0
0
2
1
1
6
6
3
Defiance
2
0
1
0
3
0
1
7
5
4
Defiance College 3 vs Alma College 2
Junior Brooke Silcox attempts to throw out a runner against Alma College.
In the second matchup between Defiance College and Alma College the first two frames remained scoreless. The Yellow Jackets then gained the lead in the bottom of the 3rd inning and never looked back. Junior Laney Grimwood reached on a throwing error that scored sophomore Destiny Coil (0-1). A single by senior Marissa Roberts then scored Laney Grimwood from third base (0-2). Freshman Ali Mowen helped round out the scoring for the Yellow Jackets in the bottom of the fourth inning after hitting a sacrifice bunt to score sophomore Kelly Limbaugh (0-3). Alma tried to make a comeback in the top of the seventh inning. Danielle Dumoulin singled to drive in Aynslee Kountz (1-3). Then a wild pitch allowed for Jessica Eva to score (2-3). Defiance had five hitters all record one hit including: Laney Grimwood, Marissa Roberts, Anika Craft, Lily Linke, and Destiny Coil. Lily Linke and Destiny Coil each had doubles. There were 3 stolen bases in the contest: two by Anika Craft and one by Brooke Silcox. Sophomore Anika Craft threw a whole game in the circle for the Yellow Jackets, pitching 7 innings and facing 25 batters. She threw 85 pitches and 56 of those fell into the strike zone. Defiance committed 1 error.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Alma (Mich.)
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
4
1
Defiance
0
0
2
1
0
0
X
3
5
1
Ohio Wesleyan University 14 vs Defiance College 12
Freshman Blake Bowman launches a pitch into the strike zone against Ohio Wesleyan University.
The Yellow Jacket baseball team took on the Ohio Wesleyan University Battling Bishops in a non conference tilt on Wednesday night at Rutter Field. The Bishops started off the game strong by scoring in the top of the first inning. Sammy Stoner tripled to score Ryan Stefancin which was followed by a Dj Neff double to score Sammy Stoner (2-0). The second inning also saw scoring from Ohio Wesleyan. Tyler Monaco started the scoring in the inning by singling to score Noah Brazytis (3-0). Then Dj Neff hit a two RBI single that scored Ryan Stefancin and Tyler Monaco (5-0). Lastly, Zane Vintense singled to score Sammy Stoner (6-0). The Yellow Jackets scored in the third inning to shorten the Bishops lead. Junior Trent Murdock hit a double into center field which scored senior Alex Morr and freshman Ethan Jenkins (6-2). Then sophomore Gunner Gregg doubled to center field to score senior Josh Vischer and Trent Murdock (6-4). Lastly, Gunner Gregg scored after senior Dylan King attempted to steal second base. (6-5). Ohio Wesleyan added to their lead in the fifth inning after a single by Jack Bates scored Zane Vitense (7-5). The Yellow Jackets then scored in the bottom of the inning to cut the Bishop’s lead back to one when senior Hunter Bostater singled allowing Trent Murdock to score on an error (7-6). In the top of the sixth inning Dj Neff scored on a throwing error (8-6). In the bottom of the sixth inning Defiance moved into the driver’s seat. Josh Vischer singled to drive in Ethan Jenkins (8-7). Next Trent Murdock doubled to score Josh Vischer and Alex Morr (8-9). Lastly, Hunter Bostater singled on a fielder’s choice while senior Austin Horning scored (8-10). The Bishops rallied in the top of the seventh. The inning started when Ryan Stefancin singled to score Tyler Monaco (9-10). Dillon Ysseldyke singled to plate Ryan Stefancin and Blake Pettit (11-10). Then Zane Vitense singled to score Sammy Stoner (12-10). Defiance tied the game back up in the bottom of the eighth inning. Trent Murdock singled to plating Josh Vischer (12-11). Then Hunter Bostater singled to score Austin Horning (12-12). The Battling Bishop’s Dj Neff blasted the ball over the left field fence to score himself and Sammy Stoner in top of the ninth inning (14-12). The Yellow Jackets recorded 18 hits in the contest. Austin Hornung, Gunner Gregg, Dylan King, Tyler Dehan, and Ethan Jenkins all had one, Alex Morr and Hunter Bostater had two, while Trent Murdock recorded 4 and Josh Vischer paved the way with five hits. Gunner Gregg and Tyler Dehan each had a stolen base. Six Yellow Jacket pitchers saw action on Wednesday night. Starting pitcher freshman Blake Bowman threw 2 innings, facing 15 batters and throwing 42 pitches with 29 of those being strikes. The next pitcher was sophomore Jeffery Varga; he pitched 2.1 innings, facing 10 batters, and throwing 34 pitches with 19 of those being strikes. Then sophomore Tyler Sickmiller came in and pitched 1 inning, facing 6 batters. He threw 30 pitches with 18 of those in the strike zone. Next was senior Cohen Nies who also threw 1 inning, facing 9 batters and throwing 36 pitches where 21 were strikes. The second to last pitcher was junior Johnny Hammerstein who spent 1.1 innings on the bump. He faced 5 batters and threw 20 pitchers with 13 of those being in the zone. The last pitcher to see action was sophomore Sam Thombs, he threw one inning for the Yellow Jackets. He faced 8 batters, throwing 30 pitches with 19 of those falling into the zone.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Ohio Wesleyan
2
4
0
0
1
1
4
0
2
14
18
1
Defiance
0
0
5
0
1
4
0
2
0
12
18
4
Anderson University 12 vs Defiance College 3
The Yellow Jackets traveled to Anderson University on Friday to kick off a three game series. Defiance College started off with a quick lead in the top of the first inning. Senior Hunter Bostater singled to score senior Josh Vischer (1-0). However, the next three innings were dominated by the Ravens. In the bottom of the second inning Griffin Wolf hit a sacrifice fly to score Justin Reed (1-1). Then in the bottom of the third inning Justin Reed doubled to score Tyler Smitherma which was followed by a Trey Dorton single to score Justin Reed (1-3). In the bottom of the fourth inning Tyler Smitherma walked with bases loaded to force Grahm Reedy to score (1-4). This was followed by a Justin Reed grand slam to clear the bases, this scored himself, Tyler Smitherma, Charlie Jones, and Connor Gordon (1-8). Then in the top of the sixth inning Defiance added their last few runs of the game. Senior Alex Morr singled to score sophomore Tyler Dehan and freshman Ethan Jenkins (3-8). Anderson sealed the game in the bottom of the sixth inning. Trey Dorton doubled to score Jed Downham and Griffin Wolf (3-10). This was followed up with a triple by Grahm Reedy to score Trey Dorton (3-11). Lastly Grahm Reedy scored on a fielding error (3-12). The Yellow Jackets recorded 11 hits in the contest. Trent Murdock, Hunter Bostater, Gunner Gregg, Austin Hornung, and Ethan Jenkins each had one, while Alex Morr, Josh Vischer, and Dylan King each had two. Three pitchers spent time on the bump for the Yellow Jackets. Starting pitcher senior Cohen Nies went 5.1 innings, facing 33 batters. The next pitcher was junior Jeremy Russo who went 1.2 innings and faced 10 batters. The last pitcher for the Defiance was sophomore Damarius Taylor who pitched 1 inning and faced 3 batters.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
1
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
3
11
2
Anderson (Ind.)
0
1
2
5
0
4
0
0
X
12
16
0
Defiance College 4 vs Anderson University 2
In the second game of the three game series between Defiance College and Anderson University the Yellow Jackets jumped to an early lead and maintained it, scoring in three consecutive innings. In the top of the first inning senior Hunter Bostater doubled to right field to score senior Josh Vischer (1-0). Then in the top of the second inning Josh Vischer reached first on an error to score sophomore Tyler Dehan (2-0). Then junior Trent Murdock hit a sacrifice fly to score freshman Ethan Jenkins (3-0). Then in the third inning senior Austin Horning doubled to left field to score sophomore Gunner Gregg (4-0). Anderson University scored for the first time in the bottom of the sixth inning when Jed Downham doubled to score Justin Reed (4-1). The Ravens again scored in the bottom of the eighth inning when Grahm Reedy hit a sacrifice fly to score Griffin Wolf (4-2). The Yellow Jackets recorded 10 hits in the game: Josh Vischer, Hunter Bostater, Jacob Hild, and Tyler Dehan all recorded one, Trent Murdock, Gunner Gregg, and Austin Hornung each added two. Two Defiance pitchers saw action in this game. Sophomore Sam Thombs pitched 7 innings and faced 34 batters for the Yellow Jackets. The final pitcher was sophomore Jeffery Varga who pitched 2 innings and faced 6 batters.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
1
2
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
10
2
Anderson (Ind.)
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
2
8
2
Anderson University 12 vs Defiance College 2
In the last game of the series between the Defiance College Yellow Jackets and the Anderson University Ravens, Defiance College opened the scoring in the first inning. Senior Josh Vischer singled to left field to score senior Alex Morr (1-0). Anderson quickly answered though in the bottom of the first inning Tyler Smitherma singled to score Connor Gordon to tie the game (1-1). Then Griffin Wolf singled to score Charlie Jones (1-2). Anderson tacked on two more runs in the bottom of the second inning when Trey Dorton scored on a wild pitch and then an error, followed by a fielding error to score Luke Renard (1-4). The Yellow Jackets scored again in the top of the fourth inning after sophomore Jacob Hild singled to score Josh Vischer (2-4). The Ravens dominated the rest of the game in the bottom of the fourth inning Grahm Reedy homered which was followed by a Justin Reed single that scored Connor Gordon (2-6). They struck again in the bottom of the sixth after Justin Reed hit a sacrifice fly to score Charlie Jones and then Griffin Wolf homered to score himself and Tyler Smitherma (2-9). In the bottom of the seventh inning Connor Gordon singled to score Trey Dorton, followed by a Charlie Jones single to score Grahm Reedy and Luke Renard (2-12). Three Defiance pitchers saw action in the contest. Starting pitcher freshman Blake Bowman threw 3.1 innings and faced 22 batters. The next pitcher was sophomore Tyler Sickmiller who went 2.2 innings and faced 11 batters. The final pitcher that saw action was junior Johnny Hammerstein who faced 5 batters.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
2
8
3
Anderson (Ind.)
2
2
0
2
0
3
3
12
17
0
Transylvania University 6 vs Defiance College 0
The Defiance College softball team traveled to Kentucky for a Saturday conference doubleheader against Transylvania University. The Pioneers got off to an early start scoring 3 runs in the bottom of the first inning. Annie Schuck singled to center field, scoring Abby Frazier (0-1). Hadlee Carter scored on a wild pitch (0-2). Ending the scoring in the first inning for Transylvania was Stella Wulker who tripled to score Annie Schuck (0-3). Transy scored again in the third inning off of an Annie Schuck home run that scored herself and Hadlee Carter (0-5). The Pioneers scored one last time in the bottom of the fourth inning when Annie Schuck singled to the shortstop to score RyAnn Tharp (0-6). The Yellow Jacket offense only recorded 3 hits in the contest. Laney Grimwood, Marissa Roberts, and Ali Mowen all had one hit apiece. Josilyn Guzman and Kelly Limbaugh each had a stolen base as well. Two Defiance pitchers saw action in the first game of the day. Junior Savannah McCoy started the game pitching 1.2 innings for the Yellow Jackets. She faced 12 batters and threw 58 pitches 26 of those being strikes. Junior Riley Alcorn finished out the game, facing 19 batters in her 4 innings pitched. She threw 59 pitches with 37 of those falling into the strike zone.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
#16 Transylvania (Ky.)
3
0
2
1
0
0
X
6
10
0
Transylvania University 7 vs Defiance College 0
The second game of the day Transy also jumped to an early lead. In the bottom of the first inning Taylor Senter singled, scoring Abby Frazier (0-1). The Pioneers added to their lead in the bottom of the second inning when Kennedi Stacey reached home on a wild pitch (0-2). A fielding error in the bottom of the third inning allowed for Annie Schuck to score (0-3). The consistent scoring of the Pioneers continued into the bottom of the fourth inning. Emily Hestand tripled to score Abby Frazier and Addy Mack (0-5). Then in the bottom of the fifth inning Addy Mack bunted for a single to score Stella Wulker (0-6). Lastly, Reagan Rouleau hit a sacrifice bunt to score Emilie Teall (0-7). Sophomore Anika Craft pitched the full 6 innings for the Yellow Jackets. She faced 30 batters, throwing 116 pitches with 67 of those falling into the zone.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
#16 Transylvania (Ky.)
1
1
1
2
2
0
X
7
7
2
Men’s Track & Field All-Ohio Championships
The Men’s Track and Field team competed at Ohio Wesleyan University in the All-Ohio Championships on Saturday where they tied for 11th place. Junior Ron Scott competed in the discus event and threw 32.22 meters. Freshman Isaac Miller competed in the long jump recording a distance of 6.12 meters which was enough to earn him 12th place. Senior Ja’Qway Janvier ran the 100-meter dash with a time of 11.33 seconds. Freshman Marlon Brown ran the 200-meter dash with a time of 22.39 seconds earning him a fifth place finish and a new PR. Marlon Brown also competed in the 400-meter dash earning a second place finish. Lastly, the 4×100 meter relay team consisting of Ja’Qway Janvier, Isaac Miller, Marlon Brown, and Gavin Maratea earned a fourth place finish with a time of 42.92 seconds.
Women’s Track & Field All-Ohio Championships
The Women’s Track and Field team competed at Ohio Wesleyan University in the All-Ohio Championships on Saturday where they received 11th place. Senior Lisa-Maria Markau competed in the 100-meter dash earning a new PR and third place. Sophomore Hailei Haynes also competed in the 100-meter dash finishing with a new PR and ninth place. Lisa-Maria Markau also competed in the 200-meter dash earning a new PR. Freshman Shyla Pemberton competed in the 200-meter dash finishing in 26.63 seconds to get her a new PR. The women’s 4×100 team made up of Hailei Haynes, Lisa-Maria Markau, Shyla Pemberton, and Shanti Elkins finished with a time of 50.17 seconds to earn them third place.
(Next Week April 17th – April 23rd)
*Home Events are indicated in purple*
(Wednesday, April 19th) Softball vs Manchester
Location: Manchester University
Time: 3:30pm and 5:30pm
(Friday, April 21st) Baseball vs Earlham University
Location: Earlham University
Time: 6pm
(Saturday, April 22nd) Baseball vs Earlham University
Location: Earlham University
Time: 12pm and 3pm
(Saturday, April 22nd) Softball vs Hanover University
Location: Sal Hench Field
Time: 1pm and 3pm
(Saturday, April 22nd) Men’s Track & Field at the Otterbein Twilight
Location: Westerville, Ohio
Time: TBA
(Saturday, April 22nd) Women’s Track & Field at the Otterbein Twilight
I am excited and proud to introduce you to Marsha P. Johnson. Marsha was born on August 24, 1945, in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Marsha was an African American transgender woman and revolutionary LGBTQ rights activist.
One of the main events that Marsha was known for was that she was credited for being an instigator in the Stonewall riots. Growing up as a child, Marsha dealt with many challenges due to her Christain upbringing.
After graduating high school, Marsha moved to Greenwich Village in New York City. While she was in New York, she was homeless and prostituted herself to make ends meet. Throughout her struggles, she found joy as a drag queen amidst the nightlife of Christopher Street.
In order to save money, Marsha made most of her costumes herself. She quickly found success and was an influential and inspirational person in the LGBTQ community, where she served as a “drag mother” She helped the homeless and struggling LGBTQ youth and toured the world as a successful drag queen with the Hot Peaches. She was known for her outlandish hats and glamorous jewelry. She was also very fearless and bold.
Despite her difficulties with mental illness and numerous police encounters, whenever she was asked what the “P” in her name stood for and when people pried about her gender or sexuality, she answered back with “pay it no mind”. Sadly on July 6, 1992 at the age of 46, Marsha’s body was found in the Hudson River off the West Village Piers.
The police ruled that she had committed suicide despite claims from her friends and other members of the local community that she was not suicidual. However, twenty-five years later, Victoria Cruz, a crime victim advocate of the New York City Anti-Violence Project, reopened the case.
Johnson’s story is featured in Pay It No Mind: Marsha P. Johnson (2012) and The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson, and Happy Birthday Marsha (2017).
In 2015, the Marsha P. Johnson Institution was established. Its mission is to defend and protect the human rights of transgender and gender non-conforming communities.
To finalize, Marsha is honored as a Stonewall instigator, a drag queen, an Andy Warhol model, an actress, and a revolutionary trans activist.
Sports have a unique ability to bring people together, to unite them around a common cause or passion. Throughout history, sports have played a significant role in helping Americans cope with crises and difficult circumstances. Whether it’s after a natural disaster, a national tragedy, or a pandemic, sports have a way of uniting people and giving them hope.
After the 9/11 attacks, sports played a crucial role in helping Americans heal and come together. Major League Baseball postponed all games for a week following the attacks, but when play resumed, it was with a renewed sense of purpose. Fans were united in their grief and determination to overcome the tragedy, and players wore special American flag patches on their uniforms to show their solidarity. The World Series that year between the New York Yankees and the Arizona Diamondbacks was particularly emotional, with fans in New York using the games as a way to come together and show their support for their city.
Similarly, after Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans in 2005, sports provided a much-needed distraction and source of hope for the city. The New Orleans Saints, who had been displaced by the storm, played their first game back in the Superdome on September 25, 2006, during Monday Night Football, and the entire nation watched as the city came together to support their team. The game was an emotional rollercoaster, with the Saints winning on a dramatic last-second play, and fans crying tears of joy and relief. The team went on to win its first-ever Super Bowl in 2010, providing the city with a much-needed boost of morale and pride.
More recently, sports have played a critical role in helping Americans cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. When the NBA suspended its season in March 2020, it was a wake-up call for many Americans, signaling the severity of the situation. But when the league returned in a bubble format in July, it provided a sense of normalcy and hope for fans. The NFL and MLB also adjusted their schedules to accommodate the pandemic, and although games were played without fans in attendance, they provided a much-needed distraction for millions of Americans stuck at home.
Beyond national tragedies and disasters, sports have also played a critical role in bringing Americans together around shared passions and interests. The Olympics, for example, is a time when Americans set aside their differences and come together to cheer on their country. The 1980 “Miracle on Ice” hockey game, in which a team of amateur American players defeated the heavily favored Soviet team, is still remembered as a moment when sports brought the country together in a way that transcended politics and ideology.
Similarly, the annual NCAA basketball tournament, also known as March Madness, provides a shared experience for millions of Americans across the country. Fans fill out brackets and cheer for their favorite teams, creating a sense of community and shared experience that spans across geographic and social divides. Even in a year when the tournament was canceled due to the pandemic, fans found ways to come together virtually, through online simulations and video chats.
Of course, sports are not a panacea for all of the country’s problems, as they can also be a source of division and controversy. Political protests by athletes, for example, have sparked heated debates about the role of sports in society, and issues like racism and inequality have brought attention to the ways in which sports can both reflect and reinforce societal problems.
But even in the face of controversy and division, sports have a unique ability to bring people together, to unite them around a common cause or passion. Whether it’s after a national tragedy, a natural disaster, or during a pandemic, sports provide a much-needed distraction and source of hope for Americans. They remind us that we are all part of something larger than ourselves and that we can overcome even the most difficult circumstances when we work together.
The power of sports to unite Americans can also be seen in the way they can bring together people from different backgrounds and communities. For example, youth sports programs in inner cities can provide opportunities for young people to connect with each other and with positive adult role models, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. Sports can also provide a common ground for immigrants and refugees to connect with their new communities and for people with disabilities to find acceptance and support.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the role that sports can play in promoting social justice and addressing systemic inequalities. Athletes have used their platforms to draw attention to issues like police brutality, racial profiling, and unequal access to education and healthcare. Sports organizations have also taken steps to address these issues through initiatives like diversity and inclusion training for coaches and players and investments in underserved communities.
Ultimately, sports are much more than just games or competitions. They are a reflection of our shared humanity and a powerful force for bringing people together. Whether we are cheering for our favorite team, supporting our community’s youth sports program, or standing up for social justice, we are all part of a larger sports community that has the power to unite us and inspire us to be our best selves.
In conclusion, sports have played a critical role in uniting Americans in times of crisis and difficulty. From national tragedies like 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, sports have provided a much-needed distraction and source of hope for millions of Americans. They have also brought together people from different backgrounds and communities and provided a platform for addressing social justice issues. As we continue to face new challenges and uncertainties in the future, we can look to sports as a source of inspiration and strength, reminding us that we are all part of something larger than ourselves.
I would like to introduce you to Tracy Armey. She is the senior career coach. She will have been at Defiance College for 21 years in July. She came to Defiance College because where she was currently working closed. She then needed a job and saw they were hiring at the college so she applied and got the position. Her favorite part about working at Defiance College is the students and the relationships she can build with them. While growing up, Tracy lived in Liberty Center, Ohio and she is currently still living there. Tracy attended Northwest State Community College for her Bachelor’s in Medical Secretarial. Then she attended Defiance College for her Bachelor of Arts in Student Affairs and Leadership Studies.
To get to know Tracy more personally, I asked her some personal questions. Her favorite TV show to watch is All American. She has a mini goldendoodle named Murphy. Tracy is more of a movie person and her favorite movie is Hoosiers. She thinks that the three best words to describe herself are passionate, caring, and friendly.
Tracy Armey can be located in the Library in room 214.
The Defiance College Softball team traveled to Adrain, Michigan on Monday night for a two game matchup against Adrian College. The first two innings were silent for both teams, however, Adrian scored first in the third inning. The bulldogs took a two run lead after Paige Stein drove the ball into right field, earning a double, and scoring Meghan Lupu (1-0). Following an error by Defiance Paige Stein scored (2-0). The Yellow Jackets rallied to score their single run in the seventh inning. Senior Josilyn Guzman singled into left field, scoring Savanah Bergman (2-1). Defiance College recorded 9 hits in the contest: Ali Mowen and Destiny Coil each had one, Brooke Silcox and Josilyn Guzman each had two, and Natalee Cooper led the Yellow Jackets with three. Savannah McCoy went the full six innings on the mound for Defiance, throwing six innings and facing 25 batters. She threw 91 pitches, 54 of those being strikes. The Yellow Jackets had one error in the contest.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
9
1
Adrian (Mich.)
0
0
2
0
0
0
X
2
6
1
Adrian College 4 vs Defiance College 3 (9 innings)
The Defiance College softball team also came up a little short in their extra inning thriller against the Adrian College Bulldogs. The game remained scoreless until the eighth inning when Defiance scored off of a freshman Ali Mowen sacrifice fly that scored senior Marissa Roberts (0-1). The Bulldogs retaliated in the bottom of the inning to send the game into a ninth inning. Adrian scored off of a Meghan Lupu single that scored Genna Marasco (1-1). The ninth inning led to more runs from Defiance. Sophomore Amber Krause blasted the ball over the fence to plate herself and fellow sophomore Destiny Coil (1-3). However, the Bulldogs rallied in the bottom of the inning to score as well. Hailey DeChalk tripled to score Paige Stein (2-3), this was followed by a Peyton Russell single to score Maggie LeVeille (3-3). The Bulldogs scored the winning run off of a Karson Bagelmann single that plated Ava Ferrarelli (4-3). The Yellow Jackets had 8 hits: Natalee Cooper and Amber Krause each had one, Anika Craft, Brooke Silcox, and Josilyn Guzman each had two. Multiple Yellow Jackets recorded extra base hits: Brooke Silcox had a double, Josilyn Guzman added a triple, and Amber Krause threw in a homerun. Laney Grimwood and Josilyn Guzman also had one stolen base apiece. Anika Craft threw all 8.2 innings for the Yellow Jackets. She threw 167 pitches, 98 of those being in the zone, facing 37 batters. Defiance committed one error in the contest.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Defiance
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
3
8
1
Adrian (Mich.)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
3
4
5
2
Bluffton University 5 vs Defiance College 2
Freshman Joseph O’Neil throws a pitch to a Bluffton batter on Monday night.
Defiance College Baseball wrapped up their three game series with Bluffton University at home on Monday night. After a scoreless first inning the Beavers put numbers on the board in the second inning. Ezra Deitering singled to score Nick Diana which was followed by Austin Francis’ double that scored Diana (2-0). The Yellow Jackets plated their first run in the bottom of the fourth inning after an error by Bluffton to score Jacob Hild (2-1). Defiance tied the game up in the bottom of the fifth inning when junior Mitchell Roever bunted to move senior Alex Morr to third, a throwing error allowed Morr to score (2-2). However, the Beavers regained their lead in the sixth inning Austin Francis was walked with bases loaded to force Nick Diana to score, then a single by Grant Hovest scored Ezra Deitering (4-2). Bluffton sealed the deal in the top of the ninth inning when Jack Towell singled to score Grant Hovest (5-2). Mitchell Roever, Austin Horning, Jacob Hild, Josh Vischer, and Alex Morr each recorded a hit to bring the total hits for Defiance to five. Ethan Jenkins added a stolen base and Jacob Hild added a double. Three pitchers saw action for the Yellow Jackets on Monday night. Joseph O’Neil spent 5.2 innings on the mound throwing 97 pitches, 52 of those were strikes, he faced 26 batters. The next pitcher to see action was Blake Bowman who tossed 56 pitches, 35 of those being strikes in his 2.2 inning outing. He faced 13 batters. Lastly, was Johnny Hammerstein who rounded out the game throwing 0.2 innings. He faced 2 batters, throwing 11 pitches, 6 of those being in the zone. Defiance Recorded one error.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Bluffton
0
2
0
0
0
2
0
0
1
5
11
3
Defiance
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
2
5
1
Manchester University 2 vs Defiance College 0
Junior Johnny Hammerstein hurls a pitch against a Manchester batter on Friday night.
In the first game of a three game series with Manchester University the Yellow Jackets came up short. The game remained scoreless until the fifth inning when Manchester struck. Mitchell Baker hit a sacrifice ground ball to score Austin Knowles (1-0). Manchester scored again in the seventh inning after an Aidan Stevans single that scored Austin Knowles (2-0). Mitchell Roever and Trent Murdock were the only two Yellow Jackets to record hits with two and one respectively. Two Yellow Jacket pitchers saw action on Friday. The first being senior Cohen Nies pitching 7 innings facing 29 batters and throwing 100 pitches with 66 of those being strikes. The second pitcher to see action was junior Johnny Hammerstein who pitched 2 innings, facing 7 batters. He threw 22 pitches with 15 being strikes.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Manchester (Ind.)
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
2
5
0
Defiance
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
1
Manchester University 10 vs Defiance College 5
Sophomore Gunner Gregg attempts to throw out a Manchester runner on Friday.
The Yellow Jacket struck first in their second game on Friday against Manchester University. In the second inning, Defiance College opened up the scoring when senior Dylan King reached on a fielder’s choice to score senior Josh Vischer (0-1). In the top of the fourth inning Manchester’s Joel Kennedy homered, plating himself and Rocco Hanes (2-1). In the fifth inning the Spartans moved into the driver’s seat, plating three runs to lengthen the lead. Mitchell Baker singled to drive in a run off of an error to score Jared Holley (3-1). Then Aidan Stevans singled to score Cole Filson, followed by a Zach White sacrifice fly to score Mitchell Baker (5-1). In the fifth inning Defiance scored again when junior Trent Murdock singled to score junior Mitchell Roever (5-2). The Spartans answered that one run by putting up their own in the bottom of the fifth. Harrison Pittsford homered to score himself and Joel Kennedy (7-2). Trent Murdock again instigated a run in the seventh inning when he tripled to score sophomore Gunner Gregg (7-3). In the top of the ninth Manchester extended their lead farther. Rocco Hanes doubled to score Aidan Stevans (8-3). Then Joel Kennedy hit a sacrifice fly to score Zach White and advance Rocco Hanes to third. Hanes then scored on a wild pitch (10-3). The Yellow Jackets attempted to rally in the bottom of the inning. Trent Murdock doubled to score Gunner Gregg and Mitchell Roever (10-5). The Yellow Jackets recorded 12 hits in the contest: Josh Vischer and Ethan Jenkins each recording one, Gunner Gregg had two, Mitchell Roever added three, and Trent Murdock led the way with four. Trent Murdock recorded a double and a triple as well as Josh Vischer recorded a double. Four Defiance Pitchers saw action in the second game on Friday. The starting pitcher was freshman Joseph O’Neil who pitched 5 innings and faced 22 batters, he threw 71 pitches with 50 of those being strikes. Junior Johnny Hammerstein tossed one inning in this contest, and faced 5 batters. He threw 19 pitches with 14 of those being strikes. The third pitcher to see action was sophomore Jeffrey Varga who threw 18 pitches with 11 of those being strikes in his 2 innings pitched. He faced 8 batters. The Last Yellow Jacket pitcher to see action was sophomore Tyler Dehan who pitched 1 inning, facing 6 batters and throwing 21 pitches with 10 of those being strikes.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Runs
Hits
Errors
Manchester (Ind.)
0
0
0
2
3
2
0
0
3
10
10
0
Defiance
0
1
0
0
1
0
1
0
2
5
12
1
Manchester University 2 vs Defiance College 1 (10 innings)
Senior Hunter Bostater prepares to hit the ball.
The Defiance College Baseball team finished up their three game series with Manchester University on Saturday. The Yellow Jackets came up on the short end of an extra inning battle after tying the game with Manchester up in the fifth inning. Manchester started the scoring out in the first inning Joel Kennedy hit a sacrifice fly ball to score Aidan Stevans (1-0). The game remained scoreless until the Yellow Jackets struck in the fifth inning when senior Alex Morr singled into right field which scored sophomore Tyler Dehan (1-1). Manchester scored last in the tenth inning, Mitchell Baker hit a sacrifice fly that scored Mitchell Cobb (2-1). Two Defiance pitchers saw action on Saturday. The Yellow Jackets recorded 5 hits in the contest: Trent Murdock, Gunner Gregg, and Tyler Dehan each with one while Alex Morr recorded two. Morr also had a stolen base. Starting pitcher sophomore Sam Thombs went 8 innings and faced 29 batters, throwing 102 pitches with 72 of those being strikes. The last pitcher for Defiance was sophomore Jeffrey Varga, he was on the bump 2 innings and faced 8 batters. He tossed 21 pitches and 11 strikes.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Runs
Hits
Errors
Manchester (Ind.)
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
7
1
Defiance
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
5
0
Defiance College 12 vs Bluffton University 1
Junior, Natalee Cooper attempts to tag out a Bluffton runner at home.
The Defiance College softball team opened up their two game series with Bluffton University in a big way on Saturday. Defiance started out strong in the first inning scoring 7 runs. Senior Lily Linke reached first on a fielder’s choice, then junior Brooke Silcox scored on a throwing error. (1-0). Sophomore Destiny Coil singled up the middle to score senior Josilyn Guzman (2-0). Junior Laney Grimwood followed up with another single up the middle to score Lily Linke (3-0). Then sophomore Amber Krause continued the pattern with another single up the middle to score Ali Mowen (4-0). Next junior Natalee Cooper hit a sacrifice fly to score Destiny Coil (5-0). Lastly, a double by senior Marissa Roberts cleared the other runners off the bases, plating Amber Krause and Laney Grimwood (7-0). The Beavers scored their lone run in the third inning when Julia Tegeder was hit by a pitch, forcing Bobbi Adams to cross the plate (7-1). The Yellow Jackets ended the scoring in the third inning. Brooke Silcox singled to score Amber Krause (8-1). Then Lily Linke singled to score Brooke Silcox and Marissa Roberts (10-1). Lastly, Destiny Coil doubled to drive in Lily Linke and Josilyn Guzman (12-1). The Yellow Jackets put 11 runs in the book: Marissa Roberts, Lily Linke, and Laney Grimwood each with one, Brooke Silcox, Destiny Coil, Ali Mowen, and Amber Krause each added two. Savannah McCoy went the full 5 innings for the Yellow Jackets. She faced 25 batters and threw 89 pitches with 50 of those being strikes. The Defiance College Yellow Jackets ended this game quickly by run ruling Bluffton to end the game in five innings.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
Runs
Hits
Errors
Bluffton
0
0
1
0
0
1
5
2
Defiance
7
0
5
0
X
12
11
0
Defiance College 10 vs Bluffton University 2
Sophomore Anika Craft throws a pitch to a Bluffton batter on Saturday.
The second game for the softball team was just as successful as the first ending in five innings as well. The game remained scoreless until the fourth inning. Defiance sophomore Amber Krause grounded out to score sophomore Kelly Limbaugh (1-0). Bluffton took their only lead of the game in the fifth inning when Kryshel Dales singled to score Mia McCartney (1-1). Then the Beavers scored the go ahead run when Bobbi Adams singled to score Kryshel Dales (1-2). The Yellow Jackets dominated the bottom of the fifth inning to end the game. Senior Josilyn Guzman singled to score junior Brooke Silcox and senior Marissa Roberts (3-2). Freshman Ali Mowen singled to score Josilyn Guzman (4-2). Sophomore Destiny Coil blasted the ball over the left field fence to plate herself and Ali Mowen (6-2). Laney Grimwood scored after a fielder’s choice allowed Anika Craft to reach first and forced a throwing error (7-2). Sophomore Jessica Leggett scored on a wild pitch (8-2). Marissa Roberts hit a sacrifice fly to score Anika Craft (9-2). Defiance sealed the deal when senior Lily Linke singled to score Brooke Silcox (10-2). The Yellow Jackets recorded 13 hits in the contest: Anika Craft, Lily Linke, Ali Mowen, Laney Grimwood, and Amber Krause each recorded one, Marissa Roberts, Brooke Silcox, Josilyn Guzman, and Destiny Coil each added two. Anika Craft went the full 5 innings for Defiance throwing 80 pitches with 53 of those being strikes as she faced 23 batters.
Final
1
2
3
4
5
Runs
Hits
Errors
Bluffton
0
0
0
0
2
2
6
3
Defiance
0
0
0
1
9
10
13
0
Men’s Track & Field at the Warrior Open
The Defiance College Men’s Track & Field team competed at the Warrior Open on Friday. Several members of the Men’s team found success. Senior Ja’Qway Janvier ran the 100-meter dash for the first time. He ran it in 11.18 seconds earning him 10th place. Marcus Frye also competed in the 100-meter dash running it in a time of 13.07 seconds. Marcus also competed in the javelin throw, throwing it 28.30 meters. Gavin Maratea ran the 200-meter dash finishing with a time of 23.84 seconds earning him a new PR and 32nd place. Ron Scott competed in the shot put and discus. He earned a new PR in the discus throwing it 33.22 meters.
Women’s Track & Field at the Warrior Open
The Defiance College Women’s Track & Field team competed at the Warrior Open on Friday. Several women also participated in the meet. Lisa-Maria Markau competed in the 100-meter dash recording a time of 12.67 seconds to earn her 10th place. Hailei Haynes also ran the 100-meter dash ending with a time of 13.22 seconds earning her a new PR. Lisa-Maria Markau, Shyla Pemberton, and Shanti Elkins all ran the 200-meter dash, placing 8th, 12th, and 18th respectively. Brianna Snider competed in the 800-meter dash as well as the javelin throw. She earned 19th place in the javelin throw. Lexi Coward competed in the 800-meter dash, finishing with a time of 3:16.39 which is a new PR for her.
(Next Week April 10th – April 16th)
*Home Events are indicated in purple*
(Wednesday, April 12th) Softball vs Alma College
Location: Sal Hench Field
Time: 3pm and 5pm
(Wednesday, April 12th) Baseball vs Ohio Wesleyan University
Location: Rutter Field
Time: 4pm
(Saturday, April 15th) Baseball vs Anderson University
Location: Don Brandon Field
Time: 12pm and 3pm
(Saturday, April 15th) Softball vs Transylvania University
Location: Hall Field (Lexington, KY)
Time: 1pm and 3 pm
(Saturday, April 15th) Baseball vs Anderson University
Location: Don Brandon Field
Time: 12pm
(Saturday, April 15th) Men’s Track & Field All-Ohio Championships
Location: Ohio Wesleyan University
Time: TBD
(Saturday, April 15th) Women’s Track & Field All-Ohio Championships
I would like to introduce to you Alesia Yakos-Brown. She is the Associate Professor of Social Work and the field coordinator. She has been at Defiance College for 21 years. Her first year she was an adjunct professor and then became full time in 2002. She was on the social work advisory board for Defiance College and one of their faculty members needed a medical leave and the college was looking for some volunteers to teach some courses. Professor Yakos-Brown took the offer to teach some classes at Defiance College. She had taught some classes previously at the Lake Campus of Wright State. Her favorite part about working at Defiance College is working with the students.
It was a struggle for her to answer the question on what her favorite class to teach is. She said she really enjoys teaching all of her classes for different reasons. Some of her 200 level classes, such as cultural diversity and social problems, get some different perspectives from different majors in those classes, so she enjoys teaching those classes. She attended Defiance College to obtain her bachelors degree in social work and psychology. She graduated from Defiance College in 1986. In 1990 she graduated from the Ohio State University with her MSW in social work focusing on clinical practice of child and family services.
To get to know Professor Yakos-Brown a little more personally, I asked her some personal questions. Her favorite superhero is Batman. Her favorite author is Barbara Ehrenreich. Some of her hobbies include traveling, yard work, and watching movies. Her favorite genre of movies is mysteries. Her favorite subjects in school were life sciences like biology and social studies.
In the storied history of college football, few moments have captivated audiences quite like the Kick Six. It was a moment that defied logic, transcended the sport, and became a cultural phenomenon. It was a moment of pure bliss for Auburn fans, a memory they will cherish for the rest of their lives. While it was a moment of disbelief for Alabama fans, a nightmare they still can’t wake up from.
On November 30th, 2013, the college football world watched in awe as Auburn and Alabama clashed in the annual Iron Bowl. The stakes were high, as they always are in this heated rivalry. But no one could have predicted what was about to happen. With just one second remaining on the clock and the score tied at 28, Alabama lined up for a game-winning field goal. As the ball flew through the air, many thought the kick was good initially, but fans quickly recognized that the kick was short as the ball started falling closer to the ground. Just before the ball hit the ground, Auburn cornerback Chris Davis shockingly caught the ball in the back of the end zone. What happened next was nothing short of miraculous. Davis ran the ball 109 yards back for a touchdown, avoiding multiple tackles and outrunning the entire Alabama team in the process. The stadium erupted into pandemonium as Auburn fans flooded the field, leaving Alabama fans stunned.
The Kick Six was not just a moment of triumph for Auburn but a moment that symbolized the spirit and magic of college football. It was a reminder that anything can happen on any given play, and that the impossible can become possible in the blink of an eye. It was a moment that united a fan base, that provided hope for future success, and it was a moment that will be remembered for generations to come.
But how did we get to this point? What led up to this incredible moment in Auburn football history? To understand the significance of the Kick Six, we must first look back at the season that preceded it.
The 2013 season was a rollercoaster ride for Auburn fans. After a disappointing 3-9 record the previous year, expectations were low. But under the leadership of head coach Gus Malzahn, the Tigers started the season strong. They won their first three games and went on to beat Ole Miss and Texas A&M in back-to-back weeks. But it was their matchup against top-ranked Alabama that would define their season.
Alabama entered the Iron Bowl as the overwhelming favorite. They were the reigning national champions, and their dominance over college football was undisputed. But Auburn had other plans. They kept the game close throughout, and it all came down to that fateful final play.
As Davis returned the missed field goal for a touchdown, the Auburn sideline erupted into pandemonium. But the celebration was far from over. The play was reviewed to ensure that Davis had not stepped out of bounds or committed a penalty. Once the call was confirmed, the party continued. Auburn fans stormed the field while Alabama fans sat in stunned silence.
For Auburn, the Kick Six was more than just a win. It was a moment of redemption and vindication after a tough season the previous year. It was a moment that announced to the world that Auburn football was back, that they were a force to be reckoned with once again, and it was a moment that would forever be etched in the memories of Auburn fans.
Years later, the Kick Six remains one of the greatest moments in college football history. It has been replayed countless times on television, and it is still a topic of discussion among sports fans everywhere. But for Auburn fans, it is more than just a moment in time. It is a symbol of hope, perseverance, and never giving up, even when the odds are stacked against you. And it is a reminder that even in the darkest of moments, there is always the potential for greatness.
The Kick Six has also had a lasting impact on the sport of football itself. It has influenced the way coaches approach the end of games, particularly in situations where a field goal attempt is the difference between victory and defeat. Some coaches now opt to keep their offense on the field to prevent a potential return, rather than sending out their special teams unit.
The Kick Six also helped to cement the Iron Bowl as one of the greatest rivalries in all of sports. For decades, Alabama and Auburn have battled it out on the gridiron, with each game carrying its own significance. But the Kick Six elevated the rivalry to a new level. It created a moment that will forever be associated with this storied matchup, a moment that will always be a part of its history.
In conclusion, the Kick Six was not just a great sports moment, but a moment that transcended the sport itself. It was a moment that united a fan base, that provided hope for future success, and that will forever be etched in the memories of those who witnessed it. And while Auburn fans may never experience anything quite like the Kick Six again, they can take solace in the fact that they were a part of something truly special.
