VCU...Final Four

So I graduated from a state school over 15 years ago...it is a University, but not one that is, well, shall we say a household name. I used to say the name of the school to people and they would be like where is that? I would break it down, talk about their accredited communications program and kinda leave it at that. I have always been proud of my alma mater, can't say I have filled the coffers of the alumni association with big dollars, but I represent the brand and that accounts for a little bit.

On the statistical side, the school is not tiny, it has about 20,000 students, but most are local kids...or maybe they go to the Medical College attached to the University. Still, it is a great institution, just has not gotten the notoriety of those schools with gigantic sports programs, like say a Georgetown or Kansas for that matter. But in the last week, the entire world has become aware of the school with the long name, and came face to face with the fact that maybe...just maybe fairytales do come true. I am talking about what has now become the "improbable" run of the Smart (Coach Shaka Smart) led Virginia Commonwealth University men's basketball team to the 2011 Final Four.

In the midst of 2 weeks and 5 games, the Rams have entered the hearts and minds of the nation by showing up to the big dance, and well-not looking to leave. They beat USC in the first four, the first time there was a first four and well solidified that this will not be the last time. They then beat Georgetown-I mean whipped them, and simultaneously beat the notion that this mid-major should have ever made the tourney. They then smacked Purdue-a #3 seed and folks began to say, "wait a minute, who the hell are these guys busting my brackets?" And at last the Mighty Kansas falls...black and yellow baby.

So we are going to the Final Four. The little school with the long name, my alma mater. No longer will I have to repeat myself several times when folks ask-where did you go to undergrad again? Yeah, this is for the mid-major, state school, Pell Grant receiving degreed professionals who went to a good, yet relatively unknown University. You got alot on your backs running Rams, carry the load as best you can. Regardless of win or lose though, I got bragging rights til March of next year...and beyond. Go RAMS!!!