The last two seasons, while successful, ended in bitter disappointment when UCD was denied playoff bids both times.
The lack of a bid after the just-completed 2023 season was especially disappointing, given that Sac State was selected despite having just lost to the Aggies.
"I thought we were in, but I was wrong," said Hawkins at the time.
"My dad told me that life's not fair, and neither is football, so that was something that was out of our control."
At last week's football banquet to conclude the 2023 season, Hawkins told his players, "Sometimes life throws you a curveball, but you have to deal with it and make something positive out of it. Everything happens for a reason, so find that reason. Get up in the morning, put your boots on and start walking."
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