The Wolfpacker: An Independent Magazine Covering NC State Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/503388
10 ■ THE WOLFPACKER We had another beautiful day for our annual Kay Yow Spring Game. Year after year, Wolfpack Nation proves its commitment and generosity, and this year, more than $16,000 was raised for the Kay Yow Cancer Fund and Kay Yow Scholarship Endow- ment. It is a true testament to the passion and support of our fan base that our spring game is such a great success. One of my favorite things about being the head coach at NC State is our annual alumni reunion. It is very special to see 400- plus men of all ages (and shapes!) from all walks of life come together to celebrate one thing they have in common: Wolfpack Football. The passion for this program runs deep in the blood of these men, and I am so proud to be a part of it. It is our goal every spring to improve each day and to stay healthy. For the most part, I think we accomplished both. We only get 15 practices in the spring, and it is crucial for us to make the most out of every opportunity. This spring was very different from my previous two years because we entered spring practice with great momentum after the success we enjoyed at the end of last season. Winning four of our last five games gave us great motivation and enthusiasm going into winter workouts and spring practices, but I was happy to see that our team wants more. I challenged the players before we started our winter work- outs to push themselves farther than they ever had. I told them that although we accomplished a lot between year one and year two, if they want to keep improving they will have to sacrifice a little more. Our mantra this offseason has been to "Raise the Bar." We cannot do the bare minimum if we want to get to the championship level. Everyone has to be totally committed and give a little more. The bar was set last year, and now we have to raise it. Raising the Bar does not just pertain to the football field, but in the classroom and in life as well. Our players are heading into finals, and with their commitment to their academic work, I expect us to have one of our highest semester GPAs ever. I challenge our guys to improve in everything they do. Be- ing a champion is a mindset that goes beyond the football field. Being a champion is a lifestyle, and we have to be totally com- mitted to it. Raise The Bar! 1Pack1Goal, Coach Doeren ■ From Head Football Coach Dave Doeren