USF football players traded their roles as athletes to become ambassadors, opening the doors to their indoor practice facility to 40 special olympians for an event called “Victory Day” on Aug. 20.

Head coach Alex Golesh took part in a similar event at Iowa State as a tight ends coach and recruiting coordinator. Seeing its huge impact, he introduced it to Tampa. This was the first time the Bulls held this event, and it signifies the end of fall camp for the Bulls.

As each participant entered the facility, a member of the USF football team greeted them, standing by their side as buddies for the night. 

Each duo went through six different activity stations. One station featured drills for ball-carrying, skills and coordination. Another allowed them to take fully geared-up media pictures, mimicking the ones showcased on the jumbotron during games. Other stations included practicing hand-offs and throwing the ball.

Some participants and players turned these activities into a friendly competition, challenging each other to see who could throw the farthest. 

At one point, the players and participants played a mini-game. As each participant scored, USF’s HOT band, cheer team and dance team, the Sundolls, celebrated with the same enthusiasm as a regular season game. 

Head coach Alex Golesh said this was his favorite night of the year, and he plans to make it an annual tradition. 

Since Aug. 1, the Bulls have been practicing and preparing for the upcoming season. Golesh said it was humbling to see how his players were engaged throughout the event.

“We’ve just worked for three and a half weeks and it’s been straight [football]. So it’s a way to reflect for the night and take a step back, count your blessings and appreciate what we do have here,” he said.

Junior defensive lineman Rashad Cheney Jr. said he felt the joy produced from that night inspired the team.

“All [we’ve known] is football for the last three or four weeks…and to just bring a smile on everybody’s face, it’s a great opportunity,” Cheney Jr. said.

After being busy from early morning to night, sophomore offensive lineman Mike Lofton said he’s happy to see new people enjoy their time and smile. 

He said it brings happiness to his heart to see the team is making a difference.

“It’s a very humbling experience for me and some of my teammates as well. Our coaches always say you have to be where your feet are and this is an eye-opening experience for me especially,” Lofton said.