Here is an email I sent to one of the state reps in Austin, what do you think? waste of time? or worth the chance that our voice my be taken into consideration.
Dear, Representative Dan Branch
Sir I am writing you in regards to the recent events that have been taking place within college athletics and Texas collegiate football in particular. As was reported last summer, there has been a movement afoot to separate the four current Texas schools that reside within the Big Twelve Conference: The University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, and Baylor University. Currently the events are focused on separating Texas A&M University from its fellow Texas schools and placing its athletics within the SEC: South-Eastern Conference. I am sure there are good and valuable reasons why such changes are being discussed by certain university officials, but I must rise up a voice opposed to such a course. The four Texas Universities listed above have over one hundred years or more of tradition involving collegiate sports competition. The Schools also share similar academic missions, work together on various research initiatives , and all have a great reputation for educating the youth of our beloved State of Texas.
I am a recent graduate of Baylor University class of 2008, my father XXXX is also a proud graduate of the same. Many family members have also attended state universities and among them are included my Sister, Uncle, Grandfather, and others who have graduated from the University of Texas at Austin. Many other relatives have also attended Texas A&M and Texas Tech. Our memories of the friendly atmospheres and great rivalries between these schools are long and deep, and tearing them apart would be a sad blow to our family and friends. What has always set Texans apart is our ability to stand together and work with each other towards a common goal. This has fostered a unique Texas culture within this state that we should be very proud to have created. I hope that as a well-respected representative in Austin you will also raise up a voice to keep these institutions together. Even if this simply means calling other state Representatives or Senators to offer a friendly voice that keeping these schools together is in the best interests of both the academic institutions themselves but also the people of Texas now and in the future. A move to break up the historic relationship between these schools would have serious monetary implications and could cause the loss of millions of dollars for the local communities near these universities. Many businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and others could be greatly affected, not to mention the athletic departments of the universities themselves and most importantly the students. Please let your voice be heard on this important matter and know that we stand behind you on this issue and are thankful for any support you may be able to bring to bear.
Sincerely,
XXXXX
