The Blueprint

Let me first introduce myself. My name is Wilkerson Given. I am from Birmingham, Alabama and I graduated from Furman. Growing up in the south, I have always loved the outdoors and Alabama football. I do not, however, eat most southern food, which is probably why I’m still alive. Although southern food is great and my mom has the best recipe for cheese grits in the world, I don’t eat it. I am also not a heart breaker.

            

My decision to want to pursue post collegiate running came midway through my senior season. After a hard working summer and fall cross country season under the direction of Coach Gary and Coach Neal, my appetite to compete and succeed grew tremendously. Although I have always had a competitive nature, seeing how consistent hard work in the right direction can pay off really made me want to continue and push to be the best I am able. Starting a new event my senior year also generated excitement and the possibility for big improvement. Thus after talking to Coach Gary and expressing my desire to go catch my dream (chasing implies you will never reach your goal), he kindly took me into the group. 

            

Alright, enough about me. Let’s talk Furman Elite and briefly about what is up with the FBS and FCS (Furman is in the FCS, otherwise no one cares). Furman elite is having a great year so far. Having recently moved into the heart of fall training after several weeks of buildup, the group is working hard and getting focused. With the increase in size of the group, the intensity and passion is undoubtedly more palpable. Every person (or dog, what’s up Brail) in the group brings something uniquely positive and when added together, great things are bound to happen. As they say, there is power in numbers. This year is looking to be unbelievably believable.

            

As for college football, things are looking up as well. Furman put up somewhat of a fight against LSU and Alabama is in their rightful place in the rankings. The second place position, however, is open for debate. FSU? Oregon? Ohio State? Doesn’t really matter but if it were based on band prowess, Ohio State would be a lock. That band is incredible. I am certainly hoping for an Alabama, Ohio State title game but everybody in the country loves Oregon so whatever. 

On to the next one,

Wilkerson