The latest “Raising Canes” episode is certainly must-see-TV for all Miami Hurricanes enthusiasts—as it’s a quality story that tugs at heartstrings, but also due to the impact it’s had on a team that’s struggled on occasion this season.
By now everyone knows the story of little Carter Hucks—who spent a week with the Canes between a loss to Georgia Tech and a win over Cincinnati, where he was named team captain and served as necessary, reality-check inspiration.
Hucks is battling Fanconi Anemia and will require a bone marrow transplant. As a result, the Make-A-Wish foundation arranged a week at “The U”—which might’ve been more beneficial to Miami players and coaches than Hucks, who took the whole thing in stride and certainly lived in the moment.
“Being a Hurricanes is fun,” said Hucks to the media in a staged press conference prior to the rout of the Bearcats.
While fans are certainly backed up over years of losing and a 4-3 start to a season that had high expectations, “The Hucks Effect” could serve as a reset for a team that needed a shift in perspective after some tough losses.
The underlying message in this piece—echoed by running back Duke Johnson, wide receiver Phillip Dorsett and cornerback Tracy Howard—to have fun and remember why they’re playing the game.
Each of them seemed to connect with Hucks, recalling their passion for the game at his age, while having a genuine appreciation of his whole demeanor—never too high or low, taking it all in and having a legitimate cool about him.
We mentioned here recently that the Cincinnati prep week could have an impact on Miami’s remaining games. The Hurricanes took care of business against the Bearcats, but how will they handle what comes next?
Will “The Hucks Effect” continue carrying over—with player and coaches utilizing the off week wisely before a road trip to Virginia Tech, where Miami has only won twice since 1995? The staff needs to do their part on the game-planning front, but these Hurricanes also must deliver; playing with passion, intensity and purpose.
There may not be as much to play for conference-wise with two ACC losses already, but these kids shouldn’t have any struggles getting motivated to play ball. Not after a week with Carter Hucks.
Quality stuff, 3 Penny Films—keep it up and for more on figuring out how to be a bone marrow donor, please visit www.BeTheMatch.org.