Thanks, Tommy

Aug 27th 2008 - Written by: John Webb

January 29, 2008

Mr. John Webb

XXXXXXXXXXXXX

Dear John,

I have heard that you are experiencing some health problems. I sure hope everything is going OK. I’ve got to get you well before our Alabama game in Atlanta. We’ve got a chance to be pretty good next year.

Recruiting is going really well. This could be the best year that I’ve had in the ten years that I have been at Clemson. If we can land one or two more down the stretch, it could be a special year.

I also wanted to let you know that you will be in our thoughts and prayers over the next few months as they continue to run further tests. Our prayers are that God will give you and your family strength during this difficult time…

Sincerely,

Tommy Bowden

Head Football Coach

August 27, 2008

Dear Coach Bowden,

Your letter was unexpected, to say the least. You have no idea how much your kindness lifted my spirits when I was in so much pain. I feel like I owe you an update now.

The Duke football team may not kick tail and take names, but the doctors at Duke sure do. Accordingly, I am happy to report that I feel good and I will see you in the Georgia Dome at 8pm on August 30, 2008.

Were it not for the road trips to see the Tigers play at Duke, we might not have found parking so easily on my visits to the doctor – so I never want to hear my wife complain again about going to away games.

You were right; recruiting was going really well. And you did close it out in a big way on National Signing Day. Anyone who has been to a scrimmage this summer can attest to that. I’m really looking forward to seeing the next generation of Tigers distinguish themselves.

Thanks for the signed hat. Though it’s embarrassing to admit it now, I wore it when I was laid up in bed – like I was some giddy 8-year-old. Now it is being retired to a shadow box in my office at home.

I will always pull for the Tigers, but even more so because you are our coach…not because of wins and losses, but because hundreds of us have “Tommy” stories that reveal your character. Just win, coach – in our hearts we long to pull for a genuine role model like you.

So, no worries, Tiger Nation and Coach Bowden; I am back like cooked crack and I will be at the Alabama game, loud and proud. You will probably be able to pick me out on the television broadcast – I will be the one wearing orange.

Thanks, Tommy Bowden.

Go Tigers!

Regards,

John Webb

If you would like to comment on this column then you can email John at sectionHrowJ@gmail.com.

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