Editor’s note: DawgNation reached out to the 2018 signees to see if they would write a short essay detailing what it means to them to be a member of the Georgia Bulldogs. Thankfully, we’ve found several willing to share their story. The second submission comes from 6-foot-7 Marist (Atlanta) tight end John FitzPatrick.
I remember going in the living room to tell my parents that I was going to play for Georgia. We had talked about when I made my choice to call all the schools that offered me to let them know, and then I could tell Georgia.
I called the schools, and what I began to realize is how much respect other schools had for the Georgia program. They told me, “Well, if you are not coming here Georgia is a great place with great tradition.”
That made me feel much better about my choice.
We went over to Georgia and told the coaches how much I appreciated the opportunity and that I wanted to be part of a national championship team, so I would be committing to Georgia.
Since that day I can honestly say I have never thought that I made a bad choice.
I knew it was big when I had little kids coming up to me after my high school games and asking if they could take a picture with me. When I went to dinner, people stopped me and said they were happy for me and proud I stayed home.
I was not born in Georgia, but I’ve been here since I was a baby and have always been a Dawgs fan since I can remember.
I know and understand the responsibility that comes with playing on this team and just want to contribute any way I can.
Coaches always say they prepare you for what happens after you stop playing, and I believe Georgia gives me an incredible opportunity for that.
See you soon!
Go Dawgs!
John
#RareBreed18
Check out the rest of the DawgNation “On the Way” series: