To the Fresno State Family:
Once a Bulldog, always a Bulldog.
I’m writing today not just with pride, but also with purpose: to express some thoughts and wishes for the future of our program, which is now in the skilled hands of Coach Matt Entz. As someone who has lived and breathed Bulldog football for more than a decade, I’ve witnessed what makes our town unique: tenacity, loyalty, and an unwavering desire to exceed expectations.
Dear Coach Entz, I admire your journey and the model you now set for others. Fresno State football isn’t only about talent – it’s about tenacity. It’s about proving every Saturday that we belong on any American field. It’s also about teaching our young men to play like professionals – on the field, in the classroom, and in life.
Playing like a pro requires attention to detail in every practice rep, choice off the field, and connection with teammates and coaches. That’s where the growth takes place — not in game-day glory, but in the quiet work that no one notices. It’s about developing character as well as muscle. When you teach a young guy how to manage adversity, how to lead, and how to carry himself with pride and humility, you are developing not only a good player, but a future pro in every way.
This program has always represented opportunity. We didn’t always have the flashiest buildings or the largest budgets, but we did have — and still have — a blue-collar ethos. That cannot be lost. It’s what garnered us national recognition. It’s what got us into the locker rooms of NFL teams. It’s what made Fresno State football both feared and respected.
Coach Entz and the present staff, lean into it. Develop these young guys beyond the playbook. Invest in leadership, well-being, and personal development. Encourage them to improve every day, because Bulldog football deserves nothing less. And don’t forget that when you invest in our community, it will return tenfold. The Valley supports its own.
To the fans, alumni, and Valley families, your love and commitment are still the beating heart of Bulldog football. Never stop showing up. Never stop believing. Our student-athletes understand your enthusiasm and bring it with them on every play.
Fresno State’s next chapter is still being written. Let us make it tougher, smarter, and stronger than ever. Let’s keep playing like professionals. And let us continue to show the country what it means to wear Bulldog red.
Go ‘Dogs, always.
With respect and pride.
Pat Hill, former head coach at Fresno State Football.