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A Championship Story: One Employee's Travels to College Football’s Biggest Game

bethanylane
Employee
Employee

Tom Lewis (second row, third from the left) his freshman year at the University of GeorgiaTom Lewis (second row, third from the left) his freshman year at the University of GeorgiaOn Monday, Jan. 10, thousands of Georgia and Alabama college football fans will cheer on their teams in the 2021 National Championship game. For Georgia alum, and Southwest Airlines Captain and Sr. Manager Assistant Director of Operations, Tom Lewis, this event will be an extra special one.

 

Tom Lewis on Media Day his senior year at the University of GeorgiaTom Lewis on Media Day his senior year at the University of GeorgiaTom was a part of Georgia’s football team when they played in the Sugar Bowl for the 1980 National Championship. The Georgia Bulldogs won and brought home the National Championship trophy. Tom states how lucky he was to be in the right place at the right time for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. After his football days ended, Tom learned to fly and eventually landed at Southwest.

 

Now 42 years after being part of Georgia’s championship run, a new and exciting opportunity has opened for Tom. This past weekend, he was able to help some of his fellow Georgia Alumni make it to Indianapolis for the Bulldog’s next National Championship game. Thanks to Southwest chartering flights for Georgia and Alabama fans, Tom was able to fly fans on a Southwest charter from Atlanta to Indianapolis to watch their team play for another title.

 

Tom and his son at the 40th reunion of the 1980 National Championship teamTom and his son at the 40th reunion of the 1980 National Championship team

Tom’s love for his alma mater has also passed down to the next generation as his son will be representing the team and Lewis Family during the game and as a Member of Georgia’s Redcoat Marching Band.

 

While this is sure to be a thrilling matchup, you can be certain that Tom will be cheering for the Bulldogs.