Florida State University head football coach Jimbo Fisher recently penned a letter in praise of Tallahassee. The note was originally written for The Huffington Post as part of that site's Love Letters series, which features appreciations of American places by luminaries such as chef Mario Batali, reality TV star Bill Rancic and writer Ann Patchett.
With HuffPo's permission, we're reposting Fisher's letter here:
Dear Tallahassee,
You are everything that we love about Florida and more. Sun-drenched days and miles of white sand beaches are just a short car ride away from the tranquil southern charms of downtown.
You are a city steeped in history. Spanish explorer Hernado De Soto camped here almost 500 years ago and Florida's oldest historically black University, Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University, opened its doors in 1887. Hundred-year-old live oaks covered with moss create miles of canopy roads to explore.
You are a capitol city, which means you become frantic each spring when lawmakers come into session. The Historic Old Capitol is open year around with exhibitions offering a glimpse into the state's past.
The word Tallahassee comes from a Native American word meaning "old fields," but when I walk onto the field at Doak Campell Stadium, I see a proud history and tradition of Florida State University Seminole fans.
Eighty thousand people cheer as Chief Osceola throws his spear into the center of a beautiful new brick stadium. I see seats filled with locals and out-of-town visitors whose passion for football means so much for the university, but it also helps the local and state economies thrive. Winning on the football field is more than just sports on Saturday; it brings people together in support of their beloved FSU, and because of the boost to the economy, it means job opportunities for future Seminole graduates.
My pride for Tallahassee and Florida State goes beyond today's football field. I'm reminded of those who graduate and whose career paths have taken them to the National Football League or into an academic life or local business owner. A few have been awarded the distinction as Rhodes scholars!
Candi and I are also in awe and thankful to Tallahassee for the compassion this community has shown my family in these brief five years. The outpouring of generosity has been phenomenal. Tallahassee's citizens have rallied around our 7-year-old son Ethan, who was diagnosed with a rare disease, raising more than $500,000 through Kidz1stFund to search for a cure for Fanconi anemia.
It all comes together beautifully in this city called Tallahassee. With fans, football and a community that has embraced my family, we are honored to call you home.
Love,
Coach Jimbo Fisher
