It was a sunny autumn day in 1985, and I was just ten years old. I stood outside the iconic LA Coliseum with a group of other kids from Pauma Elementary School. We were there for our very first college football game, thanks to my mentor, Bud Bradford, who had invited us along with his wife Penny and son Brad. College football was a tradition for them – Bud had been an alum at Stanford University, and Penny had gone to USC.
As we approached the gate, the electric atmosphere within the Coliseum reached us, the sound of the crowd’s roar splashing across our faces. The air was thick with the aroma of fresh popcorn, and the colorfully clothes people in a hurry to get inside the venue through the gates. But it was the sight of a radiant golden Corvette next to the tunnel that leads into the field that stole the show, glistening under the Californian sun, its license plate boldly declaring “JUICE.”
I couldn’t resist approaching the car, marveling at its dazzling exterior. Lost in admiration, I pondered who could be the fortunate owner of this magnificent beast. Suddenly, a tall African man in an impeccable suit interrupted my thoughts.
…it was the sight of a radiant golden Corvette next to the tunnel that leads into the field that stole the show, glistening under the Californian sun, its license plate boldly declaring “JUICE.”
–Robert Larios
“Son, that beauty is mine,” he declared with a deep, smooth voice. I looked up in surprise, meeting the gaze of this tall man β to me he was the man from the Hertz Television commercials. He extended his hand towards me, “I’m OJ Simpson, pleased to make your acquaintance,” with a big smile from ear to ear. “Here for the game? Who are you cheering for?” He asked. I said, “I am not sure, the team that is going to win?” “Smart answer!” He chuckled. “Put up your fingers like this”, he put his fingers up like the peace sign. “Do that during the game, and you will see who the winner will be. Fight On, little man!”
Stunned and in awe, I found myself shaking hands with someone famous. Of course, at the time, I didn’t know he was also considered to be one of USC’s all-time greatest athletes and beloved by Los Angeles at the time. In that moment, amidst the cheers and the excitement, my heart pledged allegiance to the USC Trojans forever. That shimmering golden Corvette, and its owner, became the indelible memory that defined my inaugural college football experience and my love for USC.
In an intense clash on November 23, 1985, USC emerged victorious over UCLA with a 17-13 score.
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Here are some leadership and life lessons that can be learned from my experience:
1. Generosity and kindness can lead to unforgettable experiences for others.
2. Mentors and positive role models can introduce young people to new experiences and traditions.
3. Traditions and values can be passed down from generation to generation.
4. Paying attention to the small details can make an experience more memorable and impactful.
5. Approachable and friendly behavior can make a difference in someone’s life.
6. Famous personalities and celebrities can influence others through their actions and attitude.
7. Finding common ground can bring people together, regardless of their background or status.
8. Engaging with people and being open to new experiences can create treasured memories.
9. A positive attitude and a sense of humor can make all the difference in how people perceive you.
Robert Larios 