OT? My onfield experience at 2004 Rosebowl. Falk, Songgirls!

This is my first post so please be gentle!

I've been a member since the early days of this blog but rarely post. I have been wanting to post this but never had 100 points.

Graduated from UM in 1996

This is a 100% true story.  It is one of the best times of my life and it still seems surreal and like a dream.

My childhood friend had a connection with the football program for many years. We are still friends to this day. He knows I am a fan. He called me up and asked me if I wanted to go to the game and be on the field. He had been in LA for a few days and was bored as his work was complete for the most part. Of course I said yes. This was about week before the game.

I bought a airplane ticket and was in LA the next evening and was scheduled to leave the morning after the game. He said he could take care of lodging. When I arrived I found out I was staying at the same hotel as the players/coaches. He introduced me to Lloyd Carr and Jon Falk. Falk was definitely a character! He asked what I was doing while there and when I replied nothing he barked to my friend, "good! Frank,bring him to work tomorrow Joe is sick." I was stunned and said that I didn't think I was qualified and he replied," You have degree from Michigan? You will be fine. There's no free lunch here!" The next day I was at practice handing out equipment.It was amazing to see them practicing and I couldn't get over how everyone was a giant! The players were massive.

The day of the game arrives and my friend gives me my onfield pass and said he would see me after the game as he had to work. I asked what I was supposed to do and the only thing he said was make sure you stay out of the way and that Jon told him to have me help after the game. I was so grateful for the amazing experience I had over the last few days I said of course I would help.

The game itself was pretty good and was a treat to see eye level on the field. First half thought we could still win, 2nd half the wheels fell off. I made sure to stay at least 30 yards from the team. Basically I stayed in the corner endzone leaning against the wall during the game. You can see me in the broadcast.

 During the game the USC songirls would periodically come around and perform their dances. One time I noticed one was looking at me. I winked and she gave me a smile. Towards the end of the game they came around again and I approached her and started chatting her up. She asked what I was doing after the game and did I want to go to a party? I thought about it for a split second and, knowing I was supposed to work after the game with my friend, said of course I want to go. She gave me the address.

I found my friend after the game told him my luck and that I will not be helping. He said Jon will be annoyed if I don't help. I told him that was his problem and that I'm leaving.

The party was amazing with all her songgirl friends. We had a great time and ended up getting busy. I was up until 5:30am and my flight was at 8:30. I told her I have to go to catch my flight. She said why don't you stay the weekend and go back monday? So that's what I did and that weekend was one of the the most memorable of my life. She was a really amazing person and we are friends on facebook.

I contacted my friend later and asked if Falk noticed that I was not there. He said yes that man doesn't miss anything. He told me that he explained the situation later and Falk's reply was, " He left us to go hang out with a songgirl? Well I guess I can't blame him as if I was 30 years younger and unmarried I would have made the same choice!" I later sent a note to Jon thanking him for the amazing experience. I received a 5 word response. " You owe me 3 hours"

This story still brings a smile to my face!