We're Here

Now my only prior experience with a charter flight was in the mid 1990s when I squeezed into a small nine-seater for a bumpy ride in the night (back-to-back nights to be exact) to and from Orono, Maine. I still remember the automated mesage blaring "flying too low, flying too low, flying too low" as we landing at 2 a.m. that morning long ago. The pilot's response to a bunch of terrified faces after we landed: "Oh don't worry, It always does that."

Well my opinions of charter flights has changed as of today. Whisked by bus from campus to a quiet area adjacent to the main portion of Bradley Airport, the entire Hawks traveling group (including band, cheerleaders, players, coaches, administrators) arrived in two different stages around 9 a.m. The bags were automatically loaded from bus to plane, so the first benefit was apparent: no bothering with luggage. After individual security checks, each individual walked right onto the plane. Much to my delight, this was a regular Delta aircraft, just like I'd step onto traveling commercially. But this plane had no strangers. It was all Hartford.

The New York City-based flight crew was friendly and accommodating. Taking a step back in time, we actually were offered food and beverages on the plane continuously.The flight of just over three hours landed about 12:10 Central Time. Buses arrived to transport us to the Embassy Suites in Baton Rouge.

Weather, you ask? Sunshine and temperatures in the mid 70s are forecast for tomorrow and that all important day, Saturday. The team is practicing this afternoon and will go to dinner at a local restaurant later on. The fun starts tomorrow with the official NCAA Press Conference and on-site practice that each team here takes part in.

By the way, back to the plane for a second. Advice to Danielle Hood...don't quit your day job.