In the wake of a heart-wrenching 39-31 double-overtime loss to the Texas Longhorns in the Peach Bowl, Arizona State University’s head coach, Kenny Dillingham, addressed his team and the broader community with a poignant open letter.
Dillingham began by expressing profound pride in his players’ resilience and determination throughout the season. He acknowledged the sting of the recent defeat but emphasized that the character and unity displayed by the Sun Devils were far more significant than the final score.
“This loss hurts deeply,” Dillingham admitted, “but it does not define us. Our journey, marked by unwavering commitment and brotherhood, is what truly matters.”
He extended heartfelt gratitude to the seniors, whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in elevating the program to new heights. Dillingham also recognized the unwavering support of the fans, crediting their energy and passion as a driving force behind the team’s success.
“To our seniors, your legacy is etched into the fabric of this team,” he wrote. “To our fans, your belief in us has been our foundation. We owe you everything.”
Looking ahead, Dillingham reaffirmed his commitment to building a program rooted in integrity, hard work, and excellence. He called upon his players to channel the pain of the loss into motivation for the future, urging them to embrace the challenges that lie ahead with renewed vigor.
“We will rise from this,” he declared. “Together, we will turn this pain into progress, and this setback into a stepping stone toward greatness.”
In closing, Dillingham shared a personal reflection on the emotional toll of the game, noting that such experiences, while painful, are integral to the growth and development of both the team and its individual members.
“Moments like these test our spirit,” he concluded. “But they also forge our character. We are Sun Devils, and we will emerge stronger than ever.”
Dillingham’s heartfelt message resonated deeply within the college football community, prompting a supportive response from Colorado head coach Deion Sanders. Sanders commended Dillingham’s leadership and the Sun Devils’ performance, stating, “You represented all of us from the Big 12 well, my brother. We are proud of you and your team. God bless you all. You’re awesome Coach of the Year.”
This gesture of camaraderie underscores the respect and admiration that Dillingham and his team have garnered throughout the season.
For a more in-depth perspective, you can watch Coach Dillingham’s emotional post-game remarks below: