Jacksonville - A parade of former Florida State players made their way to Jacksonville University for Tuesday's Gator Bowl practice; many just hoping to share a moment with retiring Seminoles' coach Bobby Bowden.

Former 'Noles Todd Fordham and Sam Cowart, both of whom call Jacksonville home after lengthy NFL careers, talked about the importance of bringing their sons to meet their coach at practice or Friday's Gator Bowl game against West Virginia.

"I just wanted to come and at least experience one more Florida State practice under his tutelage," said Fordham, an offensive lineman for the 'Noles from 1993-96. "To get to go to his last game, I told my (four) boys I was taking them to the game. 'We're going to the game somehow. This is coach's last game and I want you to be a part of that.'"

"I'm going to bring my son out tomorrow to have the opportunity to meet Coach Bowden for the first time," said Cowart, a Jacksonville native and FSU linebacker from 1993-97. "I tell a lot of people, just the experience of playing for Coach Bowden, Coach (Mickey) Andrews and Chuck Amato ... if I had the opportunity to do it over again, knowing what I know now, I'd go right back to FSU."

Martin Mayhew attended Tallahassee Florida High, but doesn't get the chance to visit too often as general manager of the Detroit Lions. Mayhew was a standout cornerback - and outstanding student - for the Seminoles from 1984-87, which put him at the forefront of FSU's dynasty years and later enjoyed an eight-year NFL career.

"I had the chance to spend a little time with Coach Bowden ... to just thank him for being an inspiration to me," said Mayhew. "I've been watching him from afar the past few years, but I have seen this program really take root during the time I was here and shortly thereafter, to become a great program. It's tough to see him go, but I just have tremendous respect for him and everything he's done from the school."

Bowden keynote speaker at FCA breakfast

Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden was the keynote speaker at Tuesday's Fellowship of Christian Athletes breakfast, which was held at First Baptist Church of Jacksonville and included the entire FSU and West Virginia teams.

"I'm studying for my finals," Bowden said, holding up his bible. "I'm not as young as you all. I don't know when graduation is coming, but I'm trying to be ready."

West Virginia coach Bill Stewart spoke, as well as several players who offered testimonials.

Bowden has a long-standing relationship with the FCA. The organization annually presents the Bobby Bowden Award to a college football player who excels on the field, in the classroom and serves as a "faith model" in the community.