Fresno State Football

I think it comes to no surprise when I say that the world’s greatest artists are known to be found in some of the biggest cities in our country. When we think of LA, New York, Nashville, etc… we think of creativity. We think of the best of the best of artistry… and it is no secret that they all congregate in those cities. 

But despite the fact that the bright lights shine on these places… do you know where many of these great artists and creatives actually originate?

Small towns.

Which means right where no one is looking— is the very place that gold can be found.

Fresno State Football has taken this truth to heart. But instead of artists, they’re looking for their athletes. Beyond the fact that Fresno State is the largest state school in the California Central Valley, and serves over 25 cities, the student athletes are referred to as “Pride Of The Valley” for more than just the fact that they represent Fresno. It’s because many of them were born and raised here. 

As a Division I program of this size, having 25% of their players from the Central Valley not only shows Fresno State’s commitment to the student athletes in their home town— but also, the amount of small town, home-grown talent that exists right under its nose.  The idea that some of the best talent in the country can be found right in their backyard is a belief that the leaders of the Fresno State Football program have taken to heart. And made their mission. Championing their home community is not something they do as an extracurricular to playing football… playing football is how they champion their community.

I had the honor of spending the 2021 season with these young men and this staff and I want to put it very plainly on record: They made me better. Their pursuit of a family culture was evident. Their faith led everything they did- praying together and alone before each and every game- and I found myself growing personally and feeling a part of something bigger, just by being with them. This group was different. And when the men were asked what made this year so special, they expressed their devotion to their teammates and the emphasis they put on building relationships with one another.

The 2021 Fresno State Football team was talented. In a way that brought Fresno true pride that it needed and wanted to feel again. But they also made a difference in a single life through their professionalism, dedication to their “art”, willingness to lead with their faith, commitment to their relationships, and gratitude for all staff that surrounded them. And I’m just one person.
So I wonder how many more around me and in the stands felt the same?

To the athletes and staff who were part of Fresno State Football’s 2021 season, thank you.