Once a year the observer’s livelihood requires that he transport his butt to Las Vegas for the annual trade show of the national association that employs him as a consultant. Fun city? Maybe, if he weren’t working 10 to 12 hours a day, rushing to meetings between non-stop rush throngs of people, and getting abused by slot machines during rare breaks between duties.

Time was precious, Internet access $14.99 a day, forcing Card Game down the priority list. The five days are mostly a blur. Never so happy to get back to Louisville.

One of the rewarding things during the trip was the growing recognition of the success of the UofL athletic program. The observer wears Cardinal gear, of course, He was frequently engaged by strangers in airport terminals, on flights, hotel lobbies, casino floors and elsewhere by people wanting to chat about UofL winning the NCAA basketball championship. Some recalling UofL’s win over Florida in the Sugar Bowl. Others noting UofL’s upcoming entry into the Atlantic Coast Conference.

A couple of years ago, people would ask if the Cardinal logo was for the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team or the Arizona Cardinals football team. This time around they were asking about the University of Louisville. National recognition was never so apparent.

A Michigan State fan on the flight home was especially grateful that UofL had defeated arch rival Michigan during the final game. “Louisville was really a fun team to watch, the embodiment of what people want to see in college athletics,” he said.

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By Charlie Springer

Charlie Springer is a former Louisville editor and sportswriter, a public affairs consultant, a UofL grad and longtime fan.

One thought on “Home again for a UofL fan”
  1. Likewise, a Gonzaga fan was very cordial and congratulatory. Also cleared up how to pronounce Gonzaga, with a long A in second syllable, not the oft heard “ah”ga. Go Cards!

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