Many folks across the country, including a host of University of Central Arkansas supporters, were thrilled to see UCA Hall of Famer Charlie Strong's Louisville Cardinals give fourth-ranked Florida a beating in the Sugar Bowl.
It was a great example of a team (the Cardinals) that was well-prepared and wanting to be in the SuperDome vs. one that wasn't and with hearts and heads not in New Orleans — unless on Bourbon Street. And the Louisville roster was dotted with 34 players from Florida who had something to prove.
Strong, an assistant at several places (including Florida) paid a lot of dues before he got his opportunity as a head coach on a big stage. Louisville gave him the chance three years ago. He paid the institution back by reportedly spurning several other opportunities (including Tennessee) to remain in Louisville. Now, Cardinal football fans are celebrating the biggest football victory in school history.
He's building a solid program.
And it's good to see good folks who have worked hard and paid their dues reap the benefits.