From all Michigan State Spartans,
Thank you, Mark Dantonio.
You have been a component of Michigan State since 2007, and you inspire Spartans to "Reach Higher." Under your coaching, we have had 100 wins, 3 Big Ten Championships, college bowl championships and appearances, 26 players sent to the NFL, and a winning culture at MSU. You have created an outstanding program for Michigan State, something students, alumni, and fans are eternally grateful for.
Your success is because of your character, drive, and hard work. The staff under you has been consistent, which leads them to building relationships with the players, and furthering their development. You hold everyone accountable for their actions. A great example of this is when you dismissed players from the team who were involved in sexual assault cases. You push your players to be the best men they can be on and off the field.
During games, you focus only on the game and the team. You don't have outbursts or temper tantrums like a child. When odds aren't in our favor, you improvise and adapt to the situation. During press conferences, you hold your head high and speak with honesty. On social media, you don't start fights with other teams and their coaching staff. You only put out positivity.
It's remarkable how you've been able to turn around a team within a year's time. I have never seen a team come back from a 3-9 record so quickly. We reversed the record, therefore, ending up with a 10-3 record and a Holiday Bowl championship win. I commend you for this, Mark Dantonio. This helped bring hope and joy to the hearts of many.
If you would like some advice for the years to come, it would be to keep doing what you do. The past 11 years have been a turning point for Michigan State as a football program, and a university. I couldn't imagine how proud you must feel; not many NCAA coaches can say they have accomplished as much as you have.
I'm writing this to you not only as a tribute to your 100th win at Michigan State, or the winning of the Holiday Bowl, but because you are an inspiration to me. I admire your kindness, persistence, and the way you approach adversity. You have shown me that no matter what life throws at you, you can be successful. What you do every day reminds me that, "Who Will? Spartans Will." This message has helped me in my academic career, as well as other aspects of my life.
On behalf of the university and fan-base, we cannot thank you enough, Mark. You are such an asset; you deserve to be recognized for all the greatness you have put out into the world. Continue to "Reach Higher," and we will be there with you every step of the way.