Athletic Network: Firefly Digital made the Athletic Network work

Many of the companies and individuals who contribute to the quality of life in our community are recognized in various and sundry ways by the media. My purpose is to make your readers aware of one company’s contribution which goes beyond the Lafayette community and the Acadiana area.

When the Athletic Network (www.athleticnetwork.net) was established in May 2002 to build a data base and Web site for current/former athletes/support groups, Mike Spears of Firefly Digital immediately stepped up to the plate and offered their talents, time, and energy. Shortly thereafter, they became the host of the Athletic Network. Thousands of former athletes and support groups (cheerleaders, dancers, coaches, trainers, managers, etc.) have since been reconnected with each other and with the university.

The AN Web site also contains information on all of the teams and documents some of the history and traditions of our athletic program. In addition to the History and Photo Gallery links, information (which no historian could provide) is contained in the profiles which have been submitted by former and current athletes and support groups.

The charitable attitude and actions by Firefly Digital allowed the Athletic Network to dream, plan and grow, knowing that their cooperative agreement with us was for the long term. Our team of sponsors, UL coaches, network captains for over25 networks make for exciting growth. The AN web site quickly outgrew its humble beginnings and Firefly Digital came to the rescue and spearheaded a re-organizational effort.

On Dec. 17, the re-organized Web site was unveiled at a brief ceremony at the UL Alumni Center. Special to this unveiling was the site dedication to Bill "Blackjack" Landry and Julien Carl "Dutch" Reinhardt. The site dedication includes a link for Living Memorials.

Firefly Digital has raised the bar for other companies in Lafayette by sacrificing profit in order to give back to the community. We thank Firefly for their special gift and encourage others to continue to seek unique ways to help our community – even if we have to move the borders worldwide.

Ed Dugas
Coordinator
Athletic Network
Dec. 20, 2003