If someone were to ask me what similarities I saw between football and fishing, my initial response would probably be “None!” Thinking more about it, however, there are quite a few.
Hear me out.
Both are American-born sports … at least when it comes to bass fishing. Like football, it originated in this country. At the competitive level, both are extremely demanding — each requiring hard work, discipline, preparation and a solid game plan with near perfect execution.
In either sport, a player must be adaptable and quick to adjust if he hopes to succeed. Even when a player thinks he’s fully prepared, some intangible can suddenly create an unexpected challenge.
In either sport, a competitor will experience wins and losses, successes and failures. It’s just part of the game.
Seasonal success
My 2017 Elite Series campaign reflects this. I got off to a very rocky start at the season opener on Lake Cherokee, where I zeroed the first day of competition. Day 2 went much better, as I was able to put 18 pounds of fish on the scales and somewhat redeem myself. Even still, the damage was done.
I’ve been battling my way back from it ever since, finally finding some success in the second half of the season. The northern swing went well, and Arkansas was good before that. I finally found my stride and it feels good.
Just like a string of wins in football, you’re somehow more confident and better prepared for what lies ahead. That’s where I am now, and I can’t wait for next season of the Bassmaster Elite Series to get here.
Players from the past
Yesterday I received a call from an old friend — Florida Gator All-American Andy Bean.
In his prime, Andy won SEC and NCAA National Championships in collegiate golf for the University of Florida. From there he went on to a successful career as a PGA professional, winning numerous tournaments there as well.
I met Andy in the 90s, at an ESPN Bass & Golf Classic — a benefit event that combined a round of golf with bass fishing in a competitive format. We were paired together, and we hit it off from the start.
After that, Andy and I continued to fish together — making numerous trips to the Everglades for snook, and fishing for big bass on private phosphate pits in central Florida, where he had access. I had made a friend for life.
Andy is a huge supporter of UF athletics, and when he called to see if I wanted to attend a closed practice session for Gator football, I jumped at the chance.
‘Wait ‘til next year’
When I attended UF, the football program wasn’t nearly as successful as it would become in the 1990s and 2000s. Prior to that, a good season would end at 7-3 with a modest bowl bid. That all changed when Steve Spurrier and Urban Meyer made their mark on the program. Now, anything less than 10-2 is considered a failure.
As expectations remain high, that adds to the pressure for current coach, Jim McElwain. Gator Nation wants to regain its status as a football powerhouse, and they want it yesterday!
Observing McElwain and his staff directing drills was impressive. Team morale was strong, too, as was their work ethic. It was motivating. Something else I noticed was the intensity and desire of the athletes — some wanting to become starters, others just hoping to make the roster.
If the University of Florida football team continues to work hard and stay on track, I’m certain they’ll regain their status as one of the nation’s best programs. And likewise, if I do the same, maybe I’ll experience similar success.
Watching them work has certainly inspired this Gator.