Auburn University recently hosted its inaugural Victory Day, an event designed to celebrate athletes with special needs, and it featured a memorable moment with head football coach Alex Golesh. During the festivities, Golesh took the time to acknowledge his roots by giving a shoutout to his high school, Dublin Scioto High School, located in Dublin, Ohio.
The event, held on August 30, involved participants from Auburn's EAGLES special education program alongside Lee County Special Olympians. As Golesh addressed the media following the event, he was approached by EAGLES student Kaili Blauwkamp, who requested to conduct an interview. Golesh graciously accepted, leading to a charming exchange that highlighted his connection to Dublin Scioto.
When asked about his high school, Golesh proudly stated, "I went to Dublin Scioto High School, in Dublin, Ohio." Blauwkamp's surprised reaction, "Oh wow, that’s far!" prompted Golesh to reminisce fondly about his time at the school. He added, "Yeah. Home of the Irish. Big win last Friday night... It’s been a long time since I was there, but yeah, congrats to them." This reference was in regard to Dublin Scioto's recent victory over Briggs, where they secured a 42-36 win on August 28.
Golesh, who played linebacker during his high school years and earned three letters at Dublin Scioto, has maintained a strong connection to his alma mater. His interview with Blauwkamp was not only a heartwarming moment but also a reflection of his commitment to uplifting young athletes. He took the opportunity to discuss his decision to join Auburn, stating, "I chose Auburn because it’s the best place in the entire country and we’re going to win national championships," which elicited cheers from the audience.
In addition to sharing his enthusiasm for Auburn, Golesh revealed his unique pregame meal, which consists of spaghetti with butter, loaded with parmesan cheese, accompanied by two pieces of steak. This personal tidbit added a light-hearted touch to the interview, showcasing Golesh's approachable personality.
Golesh's involvement in the Victory Day event is a testament to his dedication to inclusivity and community engagement. He brought this concept from his previous position at the University of South Florida, aiming to create a memorable experience for all involved. The event featured Auburn cheerleaders and members of the pep band, who rallied around the athletes, allowing them to participate in football drills and score touchdowns throughout the evening.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Golesh stated, "It gives us a chance to give back to some really cool fans. It gives our players a unique perspective of how fortunate they are. We get to share this stadium tonight with a bunch of really special athletes and we get to go play football on Saturday." His words encapsulate the spirit of Victory Day, emphasizing the importance of community and the joy of sports.
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