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A spirit that is not afraid

Letter from the Editor | Plainsman sports edition

Toomers Corner after Auburn Men's Basketball beats Michigan State to advance to the Final Four on March 30, 2025.
Toomers Corner after Auburn Men's Basketball beats Michigan State to advance to the Final Four on March 30, 2025.

I believe in a sound mind, in a sound body and a spirit that is not afraid and in clean sports that develop these qualities. 

– George Petrie, coach of Auburn’s first football team

I love this line of the Auburn creed, especially because it’s where The Plainsman derives its motto. The values speak of the strength and integrity which founded one of our most renowned programs and which govern our university. Not only does our newspaper play into these qualities, but each and every athlete represents them as well. 

If there’s something Auburn will always stand behind, it’s our sports. Even in heartbreaking losses, you will still hear fans saying, “It’s great to be an Auburn Tiger” or “War Eagle anyways.” Auburn fans love Auburn, to its core, in wins and in losses. 

Athletics are an incredible part of the culture and draw of Auburn. They unite people. They give people pride, excitement and hope. They utilize the full capacity of human physicality. They celebrate hard work and reward excellence. Every once in a while you’ll get a miracle or a spectacle that will leave you in awe for years to come. 

Our heart behind this sports edition is to recognize the best men’s basketball team Auburn has ever seen and also to celebrate all Auburn athletes for their dedication and talent. It takes a village to create something as special as Auburn Athletics, and we’re lucky to be the LOVELIEST on The Plains. 


Sami Grace Donnelly | Editor-in-Chief

Sami Grace Donnelly, senior in English literature, began writing for the Plainsman in the fall of 2021. She has served as a columnist, writer abroad, Opinion Editor, managing editor and is now Editor-in-Chief of the Plainsman. 

sgd0023@auburn.edu

@samigraced


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