We have come a long way in a short period of time, as far as our athletic programs are concerned, the donations have not been what many would have hoped, but that will change as we comtinue to grow and develop our programs. And yes our facilities are a major part of that equation and with time our fan base will continue to grow and the fund drive will follow suite.

The SBC is a good fit for us right know, it is a young conference (football) with growth potential and will allow us to grow at a pace that will only benefit us in the long run.

You are right Talon, with time the Shula Bowl will be a much bigger game then it is right now - as both FIU & FAU will continue to develop. In 10-15 years, both teams will have had time to establish themselves and the Shula Bowl will reflect that.

IllinoisOwl, make a good point that there is much to do, before talks of moving to a different conference, facilities is only part of that equation, but a major part. We need to be carefull that we don't take to big of steps to soon. We can continue to think big, yet continue to take those small steps and those larger ones will be there in time.

Talon, Illiowl, and Bytor. I wholeheartedly t agree with you and your points on these issues of the Sun Belt and growth. Both our programs are very young, and time is on "our" side, I believe. It is very important our programs keep improving all around, without unnecessarily focusing on one area, that might affect another. We have found a home in the SBC, and we have to make the most of it, growing alongside with it, and if/when necessary, then move on. As far as the Shula Bowl goes, I guess I'm the eternal optimist (and sometimes I doubt my optimism), but I dream of seeing this rivalry as something real big, first in South Florida, then the state, and then who knows…..

Ditto Fanatic, we don't really have to look that far north to see how a rivalry can grow (UF and FSU) I see the same (well I may not but some of the youngsters might) happening here in the south. I know you guys are stirring it up with Miami but this is going to be the show even if the teams go to different conferences.