Tampa’s USF Bulls Prepare for Final Bow in Aloha State
On December 22, 2024, the University of South Florida (USF) football team arrived in Honolulu, Hawaii, for the Hawaii Bowl, where they are set to face the San Jose Spartans. This matchup marks the culmination of a season that demonstrated resilience and growth under the leadership of head coach Alex Golesh. The Bulls, with a record of 6-6, will be looking to exit the season on a high note against a formidable opponent with a 7-5 record.
A Cultural Welcome
Upon their arrival, the players were greeted with the traditional Hawaiian leis, symbolizing hospitality and friendship. The term “Aloha” signifies not only a welcome but also a farewell, aptly capturing the bittersweet mood surrounding the final game for key players.
Celebrating Achievements
As the Bulls prepare for their game, two standout players, Sean Atkins and Kelley Joiner, reflect upon their careers at USF. Both arrived in 2019, and through their perseverance, they have transformed from underdogs to team icons. Coach Golesh praised their dedication, stating, “These guys have paid the price and they deserve the biggest rewards.”
Atkins currently holds the USF record for career receptions with 189 catches and is just 74 yards away from breaking the career receiving yardage mark of former player Andre Davis. Last season, he achieved a significant milestone by becoming the only player in USF history to exceed 1,000 receiving yards in a single season, totaling 1,054 yards.
Joiner has also made his mark, leading the team in rushing this season with 766 yards and 11 touchdowns. With 76 rushing yards needed, he aims to surpass Matt Grothe and Rafael Williams to become the fourth all-time leading rusher in USF history.
Overcoming Adversity
Both players have faced their own struggles during their time at USF. Atkins, an undersized walk-on initially, has worked diligently to prove himself on the field. He expressed his journey as surreal, saying, “Everything that kind of came after that, it’s just a blessing.” His aspirations for a career in the NFL highlight his tenacity and growth as a player.
Joiner’s path has been equally fraught with challenges, including injuries and changes in coaching staff. Despite these hurdles, he has emerged stronger than ever, stating, “I feel pretty good about how my career at USF played out.” He credits his development to the support of coaches and teammates and expresses excitement at the prospect of closing the chapter in Hawaii.
Building Lasting Bonds
As their time with USF draws to a close, the bond between Atkins and Joiner is evident. They shared a moment of reflection on Senior Day and expressed gratitude for their experiences and camaraderie. Both players emphasized the importance of their college journey, filled with friendship and shared trials.
Looking ahead to the Hawaii Bowl, Joiner conveyed their collective goal: “We all want to get that victory.” The game not only represents a chance for the Bulls to secure another bowl win but also serves as a celebration of the progress they have made as a team.
Aloha, but Not Goodbye
As the Bulls gear up for their anticipated matchup against San Jose State, the sentiment of Aloha resonates deeply. While they will bid farewell to their college careers, the legacy Atkins and Joiner leave behind at USF will not be forgotten. It signifies the heart and dedication they embodied and the foundation they helped establish for future players. Once the final whistle blows in Hawaii, the memories forged in Tampa will always remain their home.
