The International Bowl, yesterday, between the University of Connecticut and the University of Buffalo demonstrated that you can be successful without winning.
Sure, I'm a biased alum who remembers the antics in the stands were better than the the "action" on the football field at UB at the close of the 1960s. But, this team really gave me a sense of pride to say, "I graduated from UB." I even called a couple of cousins I hadn't talked with for quite a while to remind them of the game, one graduated from Uconn and the other's brother is a fellow alumni. (I forgot he did not have the privilege of going to SUNY at Buffalo.)
The team was successful in showing a school, known for its academics and research, can also field a first class football team. And to have this team, on the 50th anniversary of the 1958 team unanimously rejecting a bowl bid because of its racist conditions, play its first bowl game was sensational. The ethic of the coaches and players demonstrate the underlying integrity of UB continues today. Not only did the team, students and alumni win in a renewed sense of belonging and pride, the university got plenty of positive publicity.
Thank you Head Football Coach Turner Gill and your team for a successful season.
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