SMU'S HERITAGE HALL AT FORD STADIUM

[MrMustang1965]

While I appreciate the effort that has been put into Heritage Hall so far, it could be vastly improved upon.

This past week I visited the University of Alabama at Tuscaloosa campus and saw the Paul 'Bear' Bryant Museum. Incredible! It not only pays homage to one of the greatest coaches in football history but the museum also highlights the history of football at UA since its inception. If you've never been to this museum, make the effort if you're ever in that part of the country! It's well worth the $2 admission fee!

While I walked thru the museum, all I could think about was how SMU could put together a museum that would be just as good - if not BETTER! - than this one...considering all of our history...good and bad.

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"Winning ain't everything...but it's a lot more fun than the alternative!" S.M.U. SPIRIT: IT STARTS NOW!

[Bergermeister]

I believe there is a significant stash of memorabilia to establish a first-rate Heritage Hall museum. It is my understanding that there is a master plan but funding is the roadblock at this juncture. The initial phase is terrific and an indication of what it can (and will) be. Mustang alums and fans need to know how to contribute memorabilia and dollars to put Phase II on the fastrack. An organized campaign would get the ball rolling and we know the Mustangs will answer the call.

[Tradition Pony]

I would be happy to contribute to Heritage Hall, but have heard nothing from the ath. dept. to indicate that it is a priority. If the school made a genuine effort to complete the museum, I think that they would find that several alums are interested in donating. I know of no good reason why SMU should not tip its hat to the past like other major college programs do. It helps keep former athletes interested and builds a foundation for athletic success in the future.

[The Q]

That place should be overflowing with items from the SMU (and pro) careers of Doak Walker, Kyle Rote, Don Meredith, Eric Dickerson, Craig James, Kerry Levias, Michael Carter, Russell Carter, Jerry Ball, Louie Kelcher, Putt Choate, Chris Bordano .... the tradition of excellence is huge at SMU, and should have a dominant presence on campus, particularly in Heritage Hall.

[Bergermeister]

I hope someone can get the ball rolling. This would be one more opportunity for former players, alums, and friends of SMU to get involved and make a contribution to a high-profile project. The large contributions would be important, but the $25 - $50 - $100 donations could help get this done. Heritage Hall should be a destination.

[giacfsp]

It should be a very high priority. You would have to think that a recruit who comes in and is overwhelmed by Dickerson/Doak memorabilia would have to be impressed.

[DiamondM]

There are already ambitious, high tech, multi-media plans drawn up for Heritage Hall. Problem is money.

[Johnny Rock]

How much money is needed? Someone must have an approximate figure. There are several alumni and current students that would donate $25-$100. Although not much, it could add up fast. We also could get a group together to raise money at football games. I would donate my time to help with this process. We need to get this great project finished soon. We also need a tribute to Bennett and his staff at the current display with information on their past achievements. This would be great for current fans and for recruits. Does anyone have any thoughts on fund raising events for Heritage Hall?

[DiamondM]

Problem with money is, frankly, that so many other aspects of the program need the cash infusion first. We don't get enough for the Mustang Club now, and the university is hurting in more than just athletics. Tapping into the same exact funding sources to create a sports memorabilia room is difficult in the current state of the economy. People aren't going to give more, just divert what they would normally give to the Mustang Club or other SMU needs to Heritage Hall. As much as I love to see the vision of Heritage Hall become a reality, it is so much less of a priority than adequately funding several other aspects of the athletic department (and the university as a whole).

[Bergermeister]

I think it is important. I believe it should be given some sort of priority status. People have money and I'd bet they'd be willing to fork it over for this purpose. This is something "tangible" that has significant meaning to a lot of supporters of SMU. A fundraising effort is well worth a try.... "nothing ventured, nothing gained."