Florida State University, located in Tallahassee, Florida, and Georgia Tech, based in Atlanta, Georgia, are at a distance of 400km from each other. In the US, this translates to a fierce rivalry match between two colleges that will draw crowds filling the Aviva Stadium on the upcoming Saturday.
Given the strong state of the US economy, it’s telling that 27,000 supporters can afford accommodation, food, and drinks at peak August pricing in Dublin along with an average ticket cost of €150, and still remain elated.
The 10th iteration of the Aer Lingus College Classic isn’t just a game anymore. It has evolved into a weeklong extravaganza of business and entertainment, turning into one of the most profitable tourism attractions of the Irish summer.
Transporting the teams is a huge feat in logistics. Each team requires a jumbo jet to carry around 300 people, inclusive of players and staff.
Most players are young scholars with no prior travel experience outside the US. Florida State and Georgia Tech had to procure a total of 85 and 70 passports, respectively, for their players and staff.
The teams are also importing food items and various condiments unattainable in Ireland. It’s surprising there’s no outlet in Dublin where one can purchase Tabasco.
The last time Georgia Tech played on Irish soil was in 2016 where they claimed victory against Boston College. The team, also known as the ‘yellow jackets’, is predicted to lose to Florida State by around 11-12 points. They are bringing a supporter base of 11,000 people.
Mark Smith, a Georgia Tech supporter, conveys the significant achievement of defeating Florida State as akin to the rare appearance of Halley’s Comet. The challenge lies in the consistent performance of Florida State, which features a robust team year after year.
Irish neutral supporters are likely to root for Georgia Tech as one of its players, David Shanahan, a former Kerry underage player, who is currently pursuing business administration, hails from their county.
Joshua Robinson, a defensive lineman, shares the team with his colleague. Samantha, Robinson’s London-born mother, is brimming with pride and anticipates the event as a familial homecoming. She proudly states, “We’re expecting 15 relatives from London tonight, including my siblings, nephews, nieces, and cousins. I couldn’t be more proud of my son.”
Similarly, the Flanagan family, who matriculated from Florida State University and also travelled to Ireland, suggest Irish roots as per their surname. The team’s track record is impressive, boasting victories in 13 out of 14 matches last season. Tommy Flanagan echoes this triumphant spirit. “Our team isn’t just made up of excellent coaches and players, but also brings an enormous passion, not exclusive to the Florida State but extending to our Irish origins,” he shared.
He further praised the Irish folks, claiming, “The Irish public, not only in Dublin but also across the entire country, is incredible. Let’s cheer on the lads. Érin go Bragh.”