Oh, “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd playing at THON.

Between your powerful lyrics and your four-minute guitar solo, you never fail to get the Bryce Jordan Center rockin’.

To keep the Olympic spirits alive, you blast through the speakers and remind us that USA hockey battles Canada for the gold medal tomorrow. Not only do you get us feeling patriotic, but you unite us in a strong rock ballad.

Throughout my three years, whenever you blast through the BJC, it warms my heart and wraps me in a familiar hug. To see the stands light up and start yelling, “Won’t you fly high, free bird,” is a magical sight on top of an already magical weekend.

You cause spectators to stop what they’re doing, put down their phones, and sing their heart outs. The letter holders spring alive again and start dancing. Any slouched backs and fading eyes instantly spark back into action.

You put life back into those who need a boost, a hand on the back that sings, “‘Cause I’m as free as a bird now.”

Ronnie Van Zant’s angelic voice carries hope and perseverance throughout the stands, the floor, and everywhere in between. With Bob Burns on the drums, it acts as the heartbeat of the song. Ed King’s bass sends shockwaves down your spine. Lastly, Allen Collins, on the guitar, serenades you into the perfect mood for a 46-hour weekend.

Thank you to whoever plays “Free Bird” each THON; you keep us going more than you know.

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