It's offical: Baldwin's a Hog

Daniel Baldwin, Arkansas Razorback. I don't know about you, but just saying or hearing it gives me goosebumps. But then, I am a sports guy and I can't expect everyone to get as fired-up about it as I am. But it is official, and although he is redshirting this year to maintain another season of eligibility, former Piggott Mohawk Daniel Baldwin is a member of the Arkansas Razorback football team.

The move came last month as the team worked to reduce to their NCAA mandated roster numbers, and as they filtered through a number of punters and place kickers. Once room had been made on the roster Daniel was officially invited as a walk-on to join the team.

Those who were lucky enough to attend the Hogs season opener in Little Rock may have noticed that #29 on your roster was defensive back Daniel Baldwin of Piggott. How cool is that?

Baldwin's longtime coach and mentor, Michael Harrell, recounted how Daniel had called him with the good news and how he had included photos of his helmet and locker. What kid doesn't dream of seeing his name on a locker in the Razorback football facility?

Of course this is just the first step, and in today's competitive world of big time college football no one is guaranteed that they'll be around for long. But Daniel has made that step, and fulfilled a lifelong dream in the process. As Harrell noted as he told the story, "if anyone can do it, Daniel can."

At this point all we can do is wish him the best of luck as the looks to continue the tradition of great Mohawks such as Gary Adams, Tommy Dixon and Link Fuller who have gone on to wear the colors of the University of Arkansas.