USF Football Coach Alex Golesh Celebrates American Dream with New Citizens

TAMPA — USF football coach Alex Golesh had a special moment on Friday morning as he witnessed 48 immigrants from 28 different countries being sworn in as U.S. citizens at the Bulls’ indoor practice facility. For Golesh, who immigrated to New York from Moscow at the age of 7, the naturalization ceremony was a reminder of his own journey to becoming an American.

Golesh’s parents worked odd jobs to make ends meet when they first arrived in the United States, and their hard work ethic left a lasting impression on him. From a high school defensive line coach to now the head coach of a growing football program, Golesh has embodied the American dream of putting your head down and working hard to achieve success.

Despite the ongoing challenges in the world of college football, Golesh chose to spend his morning celebrating with the new U.S. citizens, sharing his story and congratulations with them. The judge presiding over the ceremony praised Golesh as “the embodiment of the American spirit,” a sentiment that Golesh found humbling and nostalgic.

The event brought back memories of Golesh’s own family’s naturalization ceremony, where they received their U.S. passports and the freedom to go anywhere they wanted. Now, Golesh hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams in the greatest country in the world, emphasizing the importance of hard work and determination.

As the new citizens embark on their journey in the United States, Golesh’s presence at the ceremony served as a reminder of the opportunities that await them. With a nod from Golesh, the men and women in attendance were encouraged to embrace their new status as U.S. citizens and make the most of the rights and privileges that come with it.