HALL OF FAME INDUCTION

So last night at my alma mater, Stanford University, I, along with 6 other former student/athletes from 5 other sports, was inducted into the Stanford Athletics Hall of Fame. It really is an outstanding honour and one that I would've not quite envisioned receiving due in a large part to the rich history of athletes that Stanford has had throughout the years. When you have athletes like John Elway, Tiger Woods, and John McEnroe also as former athletes, you just never know if your accomplishments will measure up.

There was a reception at first, followed by a dinner and then the induction ceremony followed and I'm telling you they did it BIG! Stanford spared no expense on the night and I'd guess that there were about 200 people there. The food was great, the company, even greater and to be able to share a night like this with my family and friends was the greatest!



Each inductee had to give an acceptance speech and I think mine went pretty well.


My former Stanford coach Brooks Johnson (he was also my coach this past year) flew all the way from Orlando to attend the ceremony and that really meant the world to me. I can only hope that I was able to convey to him in some small way all that his belief and faith in my ability has meant to me over all these years.



Aside from that, I just really had a good time. Today, Stanford is playing USC in a home game and they are going to recognize the inductees first at a tailgate and then at half time by presenting us to everyone down on the infield. I'm looking forward to that.

You know sometimes you don't even realize that others hold you in such high regard and it's only on nights like this that you can actually sit back, smile and appreciate all that you have accomplished in your career and be proud. I think it's easy to get so caught up in the "doing" that we forget to take the time to be thankful for all the blessings that have been bestowed on us along the way. Well, last I was definitely able to do that. Thank you Stanford for such a memorable night!

Me and my brother


Me and fellow inductee, Ed McCaffrey (3 superbowl rings with the Broncos and 49ers)


Me and my parents


Jumping at one of my first "professional" meets at Stanford back in the day


I invited my friend Jerry Rice to come


Stanford media guide picture from waaaay back, Lord have mercy, lol!


Me and the host for the night, legendary Stanford tennis coach, Dick Gould


Me and my bro again


The Hall of Fame Award (...it actually lights up, but you can't see that in the picture)