It was an enjoyable evening at the Civic Center Friday night as thousands of fans came to hear and see Bobby Bowden, but mainly to show appreciation and welcome him back to Florida State. The evening started off with a video montage showing pictures and clips from throughout Bowden’s coaching career at Florida State. Charlie Barnes emceed the event with the Marching Chiefs serving as the backdrop. The highlight of the evening, for me at least, was when several dozen former players joined Bowden on stage as the crowd was able to witness a “pre game” speech from the Coach himself. The players were instructed by coach to take a knee and he proceeded to give a generic, but entertaining speech to the former players. From there, Bowden took a seat on a bar high chair while Barnes asked Bowden questions about his career that were usually led up to by an introduction from Barnes and video footage. The evening culminated with Bowden leading the Marching Chiefs in the Fight Song and Warchant. It was the perfect opening to a very special weekend honoring Bowden and welcoming him home.
