East Georgia College experienced history in the making on October 22, 2009 as the College's inter-collegiate athletic program "kicked off" in style. After receiving approval from the student body and University System of Georgia Board of Regents earlier this year, the athletics program has moved full-force ahead. The program will initially include men's and women's basketball, women's fast-pitch softball and men's baseball. The first home basketball game will be held in the EGC gym on November 16th.
To commemorate the occasion, Coach Vince Dooley, former Head Coach and Athletic Director at the University of Georgia, came to campus to meet with the athletes, students, faculty, and staff and presented an autographed basketball, baseball and softball to the College. While here, he visited Emanuel County beginning with a tour and reception on campus, followed by a book signing at Daniels' Chevrolet, Buick, GMC Trucks, and a dinner at McKinney's Pond Restaurant.
Made possible by two very generous donors - the Daniels' and Dr. and Mrs. Harold Harrison, there was much excitement surrounding the Coach's visit. He was welcomed to campus by faculty, staff and students, including members of the basketball teams and the cheerleaders. The book signing was a tremendous success as he continually autographed books and memorabilia from 3:30-6 p.m.
Later, he joined over 125 EGC supporters and dined on McKinney Pond's legendary fried shrimp and catfish. Following dinner, he recalled his 40 years in college athletics. He highlighted many memorable plays made during his tenure and fondly recalled the players that made them. He shared great memories of Barry Young, Greg (Muddy) Waters and Bill McWhorter, former UGA players that Emanuel County calls our own.
Mixed with the anecdotal stories and remembrances, Coach Dooley had a strong message about leadership and what it takes to develop a successful athletic program. He was very complimentary of East Georgia College and Emanuel County and provided assurance that the College and the community have what it takes to make the EGC athletics program a success - leadership, support and well-rounded athletes.
The EGC Bobcat Basketball home games will begin on November 16th with opponent Albany Tech. The women's game starts at 5:30 p.m. followed by the men's game at 7:30 p.m. in the EGC Gym. The East Georgia College Staff Council will be sponsoring a spaghetti dinner prior to the games. All members of the community are encouraged to attend this inaugural game and be a part of history in the making. Go Bobcats!
East Georgia College, a two-year associate degree-granting unit of the University System of Georgia, is a student-oriented, non-residential, access and opportunity college serving east-central Georgia and is fully accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097.
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