Make a Smilebox slideshow

What a Weekend!

There are no words to describe the awesomeness of the past weekend. As most of you know (especially if you are a facebook or twitter friend of mine!), we celebrated my dad's retirement and an unbelievable time it was.

Schedule of weekend events included:
Thursday afternoon- SHOUT OUT to my dad on ESPN's "PTI"/Pardon the Interruption

Friday- Football/Athletic Department Luncheon, AF Academy tour of new athletic facilities (for older alums who had yet to see them) led by my dad, casual dinner out where ex-players already in town were able to tell stories about my dad and catch up before the big night

Saturday- alum tennis tournament, a huge success and fun for all!, football game, and the big dinner at the press box that night. Didn't see many who weren't brought to tears and/or laughter throughout the evening!

Sunday- brunch back at the Gugat home, farewell to those who attended and dinner that night for those still in town

Monday- casual lunch at the golf course for a few remaining close family and friend of my dad's

All of this made for a busy weekend but, well worth it to understate thing. My sisters and I are so thankful that the heartfelt dedication from many that went into putting this special time together. Such effort and generosity gave way to memories that will go unmatched to any that we, or most importantly our wonderful father, will have.

Saturday started with a bang as the ex-players brought a tear (or two or more) to my dad's eye through the eagerness, excitement, and loving energy that they brought to the courts that morning. Players ranging from the class of '72 to current paired up for a doubles tournament unlike any that the great Academy tennis facilities have ever seen.

Later that night, every speaker amazed us with their out-pour of emotion and shared love for our dad. All in attendance were touched, the room a combination of uncontrolled tears and hearty laughter throughout the entire program. About 250 attended, and many who wanted to be there but could not, sent sentiments of sincerity that, too, were moving.

My dad was honored because of his success as a winning coach (the winningest in AFA history, btw!) and for his great contributions to the Academy's Athletics and school as a whole. We are extremely proud of this. More so, though, we are proud of him as a person. I truly know no other better being than my dad. And what a lucky thing that is.

I left last weekend saddened, a bit depressed to be honest, that his "era" at the Academy is ending. But, I also smile quickly when thinking about what a legendary and awesome era that was. Also smiling because, with this new found retirement thing on his hands, we have my dad that much more to ourselves. Let the good times roll...

We love you, Dad/"Coach". I can speak for so, so many when I simply say, "Thank you for being you".

Whatta WEEKEND!!!!