Dedicated Indiana Fan Celebrates ‘Privilege’ of Witnessing National Championship
Gene and Judy Hedrick, dedicated fans of Indiana football, have held season tickets since 1959. Their journey through the highs and lows of Indiana football has spanned decades. They witnessed a dismal stretch in the early years, but memorable moments made the experience worthwhile.
Historic Seasons and Milestones
- 9-2 Season (1967): Indiana’s first trip to the Rose Bowl.
- Holiday Bowl Appearance (1979): Led by head coach Lee Corso after an 8-4 season.
- 1980s and 1990s: Under Bill Mallory, Indiana boasted six winning seasons and bowl games.
- Recent Challenges: Since 1997, the team has struggled, often ranking at the bottom of the Big Ten.
Turning Point Under Curt Cignetti
Things changed dramatically with head coach Curt Cignetti. He led the Hoosiers to a remarkable 11-2 record in his first season. The following year, Indiana achieved an unprecedented 16-0 season. This included impressive victories over top teams such as:
- Ohio State
- Oregon
- Alabama
- Miami
These accomplishments culminated in Indiana’s first national championship, a feat few fans dared to believe possible.
A Privilege to Witness History
Following the championship win, Gene Hedrick shared his feelings of joy and gratitude. “It’s a privilege, actually,” he stated. He reflected on how long he had waited for this moment and remembered friends who had passed away, wishing they could have shared in the celebration.
Gene acknowledged the strong community around Indiana University, emphasizing, “They’re really great people at Indiana University, and that’s what makes a good university.”
Reflections on the Journey
Despite the years of disappointment, Gene had maintained a hopeful attitude. “You always just think, wait till next year,” he said, but he never truly imagined witnessing the national championship. His admiration for Coach Cignetti was evident as he highlighted the coach’s ability to achieve what many thought impossible.
The Hedricks’ commitment to Indiana sports is evident; they have also held basketball season tickets for decades, allowing them to celebrate various national titles in that sport.
As lifelong supporters, Gene and Judy Hedrick exemplify the passion and perseverance that true fans hold for their teams, making Indiana’s national championship victory a personal triumph in their sports journey.
