Mark Richt and UGA recruits Jay Rome and Malcolm Mitchell pay tribute to deceased Valdosta High School football player (UPDATED)
UGA coach Mark Richt, along with two of his top football recruits, paid a special tribute to a deceased Valdosta High School football player (AJC file photo)
At least 10 people have forwarded me the same email this week about UGA coach Mark Richt and two of the state’s elite high school football players, the UGA-bound tandem of Jay Rome and Malcolm Mitchell, participating in a special tribute to a Valdosta High School student who died last month. Maybe you had it sent your way or saw it somewhere posted on Facebook.
Well it turns out that this email forward (author unknown) is true, said Rome’s mother, LaVerne Rome, who is the District Parent Involvement Coordinator for Lowndes County Schools.
James Eunice, 17, drowned while duck hunting in a nearby lake on Jan. 15 and his body was found two weeks later, according to the Valdosta Daily Times. Eunice was an honors student with a 4.0 GPA and played football this past season at Valdosta High with Rome and Mitchell. His funeral was held last Saturday.
In the email forward which has been making the rounds to many inboxes, it was said that Richt sent a letter of condolence to the family which was read at the funeral by Rome. Among other things, it was said that Richt acknowledged in the letter: how he had been contacted by Eunice about his plans to “walk on” with Georgia’s football team next year — and that Eunice had been added to the roster and officially “made the team.”
Then it goes on to say that Eunice’s family was presented a Georgia No. 23 football jersey with “EUNICE” on the back of it and “those gathered at the funeral … stood, applauded and cried.”
UGA sports information director Claude Felton could not be reached for comment. However, Rome’s mother told the AJC “for the most part, [the email letter] is fairly accurate. The only thing I saw incorrect was the statement that Jay read the personal letter to the family from Mark Richt. Jay did speak, but the Pastor actually read the letter. Jay and Malcolm Mitchell presented the jersey to the family.”
You can read the rest the email forward here.
On behalf of the AJC, many thoughts and prayers to the Eunice family for their loss. I can’t imagine anything worse than the death of a child.
UPDATED: The forwarded email was copied from this Opinion column called “Winning isn’t everything” by Randy Young in the Thomasville Times-Enterprise. (Click here to read)
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185 comments Add your comment
TechieMite
February 11th, 2011
2:58 am
First
Mark Richt is a classy man
DownInValdosta
February 11th, 2011
3:44 am
The story and email are accurate. I have been on Richt like many others for the dismal on-the-field performance this past season. It is a shame that it takes a death such as this to remind us that winning is not the only thing that matters. The gesture by Coach Richt was incredibly classy. My hat is off to CMR for representing the University in such a positive manner. I am sure that Valdosta Coach Gillespie would have had to coordinated this with CMR. Great job Coach. Your efforts both on AND off the field are appreciated.
Tater Tot
February 11th, 2011
4:09 am
Man, Thats really nice of what was done and hit me right there.
dawgerbrown
February 11th, 2011
6:05 am
It really is about more than just winning. We all lose perspective from time to time, it is sad that it takes something as tragic as the lost of a child makes us realize what is really important. Coach Richt is a class act. While we may get frustrated with what happens of the field at times, we can always be proud of the character he leads his life with.
Down in Albany
February 11th, 2011
6:24 am
Coach Richt is the kind of man that every father can trust their son with. That’s all you can ask for.
Palm City Dawg
February 11th, 2011
6:25 am
Richt is nothing but a class act. He is a great mentor and someone you would want your son to play for. There is more to this college football than just championships. I have and always will respect and honor the man.
Dawg Consultant
February 11th, 2011
6:41 am
This simply highlights was has been recognized nationally for over a decade now: Mark Richt is the best possible ambassador for this program. He is a championship caliber coach and given the time he will get the program to the top.
A sad reminder that this is ultimately only a game, and as they say “winning is not everything.”
rrich
February 11th, 2011
6:45 am
Mark Richt all I can say Is God bless you man… Thanks for staying with UGA even though we blast you and your character sad that it takes something like this to make us appreciate you
Character
February 11th, 2011
7:16 am
Maybe now some of you CMR haters will understand that winning is great but having great character is better!! One day football won’t matter any more, only what you did while here on earth will matter when we are all truly home!! Mark Richt would be the coach I would want my son to play for! Bill Shanks maybe you need to read the article!!!
Vick=Dog killing thug
February 11th, 2011
7:41 am
Would Nick Saban do something like that?
DownInValdosta
February 11th, 2011
7:45 am
http://valdostadailytimes.com/sports/x532734422/James-Eunice-a-Georgia-Bulldog
Link to article in Valdosta paper.
gtfanfrom1951
February 11th, 2011
7:55 am
We should remember that football is only a game. CMR is a class man and in the game of life is a winner. We are all just one second away from eternity are you ready. Jesus is still the only way to heaven. MayGod bless the Eunice family in their time of need.
SouthGaBrave
February 11th, 2011
8:02 am
Fantastic gesture from a fantastic man. Prayers remain with the Eunice family in this terrible time of loss.
how
February 11th, 2011
8:06 am
does a coach with this much character end up with so many losers getting arrested?
JT
February 11th, 2011
8:14 am
Vick, Saban and other coaches has probably done lots of similar acts of compassion and generosity that have gone unheralded. There’s really no call for that kind of comment here.
D A Double U G
February 11th, 2011
8:21 am
Proud to call Mark Richt UGA’s Coach.
Class Act
February 11th, 2011
8:28 am
I agree with JT, why can’t you guys refrain from Saban bashing and Richt bashing on an article like this? Do you not have any sense of human decency and respect for this kid’s family?
You need to take a hard look in the mirror, Vick and How………..
DMR
February 11th, 2011
8:31 am
When we stop thinking about wins and loses on the field. When the season is over and the stands are empty, we are reminded that there is life beyond sports. Sometimes it is not about sports, but sportsmen and sportsmanship. Taking an opportunity to pay respects and condolences to those that lost something more important than a “game”. To the Eunice family and friends, our heartfelt sympathies on your loss. To those who handled the loss with grace and class, we applaud, but more importantly, thank you.
Nick Saban
February 11th, 2011
8:32 am
@ Vick …..
_____________
Sure I do.
Plus, I win titles with my “dream teams.”
fanman
February 11th, 2011
8:40 am
is there any place to find the the full text of the letter?
south ga dawg
February 11th, 2011
8:52 am
The wins will come guys. Just be patient!!! Go Dawgs!!!
BG
February 11th, 2011
9:19 am
Mark Richt is a class act!
MHC Tiger
February 11th, 2011
9:23 am
I got a chance to meet Richt for the first time at Junior Day and I must say I was impressed with Richt the man. This was a very classy act.
Viva GwinneXico
February 11th, 2011
9:34 am
There’s been plenty of examples of the kind of man Richt really is. Some people say it while others actually practice it.
Its a shame that somebody has to email you stories like these. I never understand how stories like these are never heard of from you guys. If its an arrest or a kid’s scholly being revoked, you guys are all over UGA and Richt.
What’s your intentions Michael? I’m sure postive stories will get as many hits as negative ones. You guys disgust me.
ATL Fan
February 11th, 2011
9:56 am
Thank you Mark Richt for spending the time and making the effort to comfort this family. I feel certain that this family will treasure the jersey and letter you sent.
jsmooth
February 11th, 2011
10:01 am
I read this article yesterday and really choked up. Should I be surprised at the response by Coach Richt? No. Is it a wake-up call to all of us in regards to faith, family and football? YES. Coach, you are a honorable man, husband and father. I pray for the family of this young man in their loss. As the father of 3, I cannot imagine the hurt and anguish they are going through. In closing, Thank God that we have young men who are not embarrassed or ashamed to display their faith on and off the playing field!!
Ted Striker
February 11th, 2011
10:02 am
Viva GwinneXico — Nothing I’ve ever ready that was written by M. Carvell has suggested anything other than the fact he’s a class act. You’re entitled to disagree but your own comments shame you.
Dawg in Malta
February 11th, 2011
10:42 am
I’ll be one of the first to admit, I’ve been down on Coach Richt lately but this shows you the class of a man that he is!! I have three boys all involved in sports and would welcome Coach Richt to be their coach whether they win or lose! This shows you that it’s not always about winning…Thanks Coach Richt!!
59bulldawg
February 11th, 2011
10:47 am
Although I have often criticized the coaching and team direction in Athens during the last few years, never once have I held anything but the highest respect and admiration for Coach Richt as a person.
kingster
February 11th, 2011
10:52 am
That was wonderful what CMR did and the UGA, that was kind and very good of them to show their love a good young person 1st and a football player 2nd, my praise go out to UGA for the Class they are showing.(I’m from Valdosta, and we take football very serious, but at the end of the day we are all are only human)
BILLY JACK
February 11th, 2011
10:52 am
Rome and Mitchell are the new breed of UGA football players along with this whole recruiting class.They are quality kids and are very grounded.You are a credit to the university-Valdosta and this state- we are very proud of both of you.
Dbalcer
February 11th, 2011
11:33 am
My condolences to the family of James Eunice. Coach Richt has been a great coach and knows how to grow men of character. I am glad that this story reminds some of the haters why character is as important as wins and not mutually exclusive.
BIG DAWG
February 11th, 2011
11:44 am
Thank you BILLY JACK for recognizing Mitchell and Rome with CMR. I agree with your thoughts exactly. The U. of GA may not win championships every year, but with CMR, it produces champion people. These are mostly overlooked in favor of those that don’t think and get into trouble. The problems off the field at UGA have to be solved AT HOME, BY PARENTS TEACHING VALUES AND THE DIFFERENCE IN RIGHT AND WRONG. Before any kid gets to college, he should have a good set of values, and quite simply, that starts with parenting.
59bulldawg
February 11th, 2011
11:54 am
I debated whether or not to say this above. I feel it’s extremely important to add here. We all know that Coach Richt is “under the gun” this season. Chances are he may not be here in 2012 if he doesn’t get it done on the field in 2011. In terms of character they don’t come any better than Coach Richt. He is the genuine article and I think he represents my alma mater extremely well. And that is what makes my next statement difficult to express. I love Coach Richt but I love the University of Georgia, and specifically, in this case, the University of Georgia football program more. I want Richt to succeed in his profession and that profession is head coach of a major university football program. Success as such is not judged just on building character in the players coached. It substantially involves consistently winning. It involves keeping the players in line. And it involves being an exceptional judge of talent, both on the staff and on the field. No one can argue that Richt has not been overall successful during his time in Athens. But that level of success has been trending downward in recent years. It first began about midway through his tenure here where every year, between the bowl game and the next season, 5-10 players would get in trouble and end up being suspended, kicked off the team, or transferring. Then the losses began to come more often. More and more each season we seemed to do less with more. We had the talent . . . it just wasn’t being developed. The 2011 season will have a lot riding on it . . . for both our team and Coach Richt. To his and the staff’s credit, they did a fantastic job of recruiting. But they have done a fantastic job of recruiting pretty much every year he’s been coach. Now they have to develop and coach it like there is no tomorrow! As much as I have complained about the coaching and team discipline in recent years, deep down, I really don’t want Coach Richt to go. I want him to stay . . . but stay and win! I don’t want a “soft” team. I want a team that will knock you on your keester! I want a team that will play with good sound fundamentals and great discipline. I want a team that understands the tradition of Georgia football and will represent that tradition so well that even when they lose, fans and alumni will still be proud of their effort. But as much as I respect and admire Coach Richt as a person . . . as much as I appreciate his truly beautiful gesture to the young man in Valdosta . . . as much as I’d like for him to be our coach as long as he wants . . . those feelings will not override my feelings for the program and doing what’s best for it. Georgia football is well represented by Coach Richt but the program is bigger than the man. I just want the program to click on all cylinders.
From Where I Sit
February 11th, 2011
12:02 pm
This was a great gesture from CMR!
GOD Bless him and his family as well!
bobby
February 11th, 2011
12:12 pm
a true class act he is what uga needs as head coach he is great for the program and the man they need to lead this program. i hope uga kick tail this year.
falconfever74
February 11th, 2011
12:54 pm
59bulldawg cmon man this is not the blog site for that. coah richt is a great man a winner and a champion in character. people amaze me you want to throw this man under the bus because of 2 bad years. 2 years where we started 2 quarterbacks who had never started a sec game. this year learning an entirely new defensive scheme without the defensive personnel to make it work. you are quick to criticize the guy that brought respect back to athens. remember ray goff and jim donnan! all of this after 2 years. coach richt i give you a standing oviation for what you done for that fam and for the valdosta community. and please sir continue having world championship class and character……… go dawgs
falconfever74
February 11th, 2011
1:03 pm
uga you cant get a better man. Tha fact is he really cares for people its no recruitment game or media stunt coach richt loves people
59bulldawg
February 11th, 2011
1:25 pm
falconfever74 . . . I think my comments were gracious enough. Don’t be blinded by the “good man” argument. I agree that he is! He’s exceptional! It just takes more than that to be a good coach! I’m not saying win at any cost . . . but it is a vital component of the job. Otherwise we should abolish football and start a boys home. And BTW the problems extend back beyond the last two years.
59bulldawg
February 11th, 2011
1:31 pm
Also . . . forgive me if I have made the wrong inference . . . but sir if you have had Falcon fever since 1974 you are an incredibly patient man . . . much more patient than I.
GT92
February 11th, 2011
1:42 pm
Class act! Puts our little rivalry in perspective, doesn’t it. My condolences to the Eunice family.
Johnny Too Good
February 11th, 2011
2:13 pm
showing morality and values are the reason Richt has my support
http://www.youtube.com/thatsjohnanderson
GTFan
February 11th, 2011
3:04 pm
I know half of us are UGA, and Tech fans, but football is just a fun game. And, the rivalry is just old fashioned hate. But, I have to applaud Mark Richt for going the extra mile and being a honorable man. My condolences go out to the Eunice family.
Tom in ATL
February 11th, 2011
3:11 pm
Just so you know -
This Tuesday night – Mark Richt, Chappy, and DeAngelo Tyson drove from Athens to Statesboro (About 3.5 hours one way) – spent several hours as the Guest Speakers for the Joseph Home for Boys – which is where DeAngelo grew up. The event raised enough money to get that Home out of debt and pay off their mortgage. Richt was engaging and so humble – talked about his faith and convictions – held a Q & A for the nearly 400 people in attendance – signed autographs and took pictures – then hopped in his car and drove back to Athens. 7 plus hours roundtrip to support a bunch of people he doesn’t even know. He did this a few days after finishing up recruiting – when most people would be taking a much needed vacation and break.
Go ahead and bash the man if it makes you feel smarter or superior. Mark RIcht is what is right about College Athletics – and I am so glad he is the Coach of UGA.
BullDawgRick
February 11th, 2011
3:11 pm
Heartfelt condolences to the Eunice family… I cannot imagine the heartbreak & pain this family is feeling & will feel forever.. I have children 13 – 23 & I have to say, this made me say extra prayers over them.. CMR is a class Christian man & I have to believe this is just a par for the course thing for him, but touching none the less!!
Bulldawg
February 11th, 2011
3:31 pm
59Bulldawg-
You perfectly articulated my thoughts. CMR is a great man – period. But he is also THE football coach of THE Univ of Georgia. As a fellow alum, I expect to win, every time my team steps on the field – period.
And that’s all there is to it.
Fred
February 11th, 2011
3:32 pm
59bulldawg@11.54:
Very well put. CMR is a very fine man and I would be proud to have him as my child’s youth leader or Sunday School teacher. However he’s getting them millions to coach football, not teach Sunday School.
It does not surprise me in the least that CMR acted the way he did in regards to James Eunice. That is the man of character he has always shown himself to be. Kudo’s Richt.
Michael
February 11th, 2011
3:32 pm
First? What?
Dawg in Alabama
February 11th, 2011
3:34 pm
He’s the only coach I ever want. Condolences to the Eunice family.
Raleigh Dawg
February 11th, 2011
3:45 pm
Stewart Mandel wrote an article on SI.com saying that CMR was able to recruit the best talent in Georgia because the recruits did not either believe that he was on the “hot seat” or did not care. I think it’s more than that. A lot of these recruits recognize that CMR is a father figure who will have their backs through their college careers as long as they make the effort to stay out of trouble and their parents entrust their kids to him. They would rather have him for 1 year as their coach than have a “winner” somewhere else be their coach but not their mentor for 4 years. If my son was ever good enough to play D-1 football, I would send him to a coach like CMR rather than Urban Meyer or Nick Saban. Just saying.
beebee
February 11th, 2011
3:54 pm
test
Another story that did not make the papers
February 11th, 2011
3:55 pm
http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_college_uf/2011/01/ian-lockwood-dies-less-than-a-month-after-receiving-outback-bowl-game-ball-from-gators.html
beebee
February 11th, 2011
3:59 pm
It’s a gesture just about any coach in America would do.
It’s sad and tragic.
He’s a good, decent, even great man. But what he did doesn’t set him apart from
every other coach out there.
Honestly, while some of you are saying Richt is the ONLY coach for you,
as SOON as the Bulldogs lose 2 or 3 games in the first half of next season,
you’ll be right back where you left off with the Fire Richt crusades.
You who now say football isn’t everything….come fall it will be everything.
Otherwise you would not be concerned with 6-7 seasons or losing constantly to
Florida or losing to the Miss. States and Colorados of the world.
UGA Tard
February 11th, 2011
4:09 pm
Better him than the duck!!
zgoldatl
February 11th, 2011
4:14 pm
As a Tech fan, I just want to say I find this to be a truly great gesture. Puts sports in perspective. In times of need and loss, gestures such as the one Coach Richt made, can truly brighten an otherwise bleak time in ones life. I will never support the bulldogs in any athletic event, but I wish every Uga player fan, and alumni a long, happy, and prosperous life. My prayers are with the Eunice family, and all of the young mans friends. As someone who has lost too many people way too close to me in, very sudden manners, I can simply say, I feel your pain, and I hope that G-d may hold y’all extra close in these coming months. Coach Richt, while I do not support you on the playing field, I admire you as a man. Class act.
phil
February 11th, 2011
4:39 pm
Proud to have him as the coach when I hear about things like this. A good, good man. That said, we have to win some football games too or he’s gone.
ColumnDawg
February 11th, 2011
4:43 pm
No one is questioning the class or faith of Coach Richt. This is a touching story and Richt should be commended for it. He did however have many students get arrested the past few years and that also reflects on him.
However, all that matters in the long run is that he produce a winning program and some championships. That’s what pays the bills and gets people in the seats in Athens! He is the nicest coach in the SEC maybe America. But he hasn’t been to the SEC championship game in forever and if he doesn’t win it this year he is gone! No matter how nice he is.
biggdawgk
February 11th, 2011
4:45 pm
I am not ashamed to admit this blog made me tear up.
John
February 11th, 2011
4:47 pm
Winning with character and class and 9 out of 10 against Tech…. Losing with character and class and 8 out of 10 against Florida…
When it’s all said and done does it really matter about the wins against Tech or the losses against Florida, dont get me wrong, I want to win as much as any Georgia fan out there, but this is a simple reminder that there is something more important than a score of a game that is here today and gone tomorrow. Trophies gather dust; impacting lives of men with character last a lifetime…
Go Dawgs!!!
Dawg 1
February 11th, 2011
4:47 pm
I know CMR has his fair share of critics and even some haters. But you can never take away this side of the man. He is a good man and quietly does many-many things that you will never hear about and I’ll just leave it at that.
Herschel Talker
February 11th, 2011
4:50 pm
No doubt that Mark Richt’s performance on the field merits him being fired. But his performance off the field is tremendous. Kudos to him for such an amazing gesture.
More to life than football
February 11th, 2011
4:56 pm
I truly pity people who post a token comment about well it’s a nice gesture but and then proceed to babble about how CMR need to win a championship or UGA needs to boot him.
It’s obvious these people have never loved anyone and even sadder have never been loved. They desperately hope a fleeting championship will fill that void in their life that the rest of us filll with friends and family.
how
February 11th, 2011
4:56 pm
if i was paid $3 million plus a year to produce mediocre results, i could get very generous as well
GTechie
February 11th, 2011
4:57 pm
As a Valdosta native, I had heard news and many updates regarding this boy’s disappearance and the painful search efforts of the entire town. So many people mourned the loss of a good young man with a lot of potential…
As a non-UGA fan (GT grad), I have nothing but respect for Richt and his team for this!
BehindEnemyLines
February 11th, 2011
5:01 pm
It’s a great gesture, no denying that at all. To deny that it’s also great p.r. for someone who badly needed it would be incredibly naive.
how
February 11th, 2011
5:04 pm
i’m just saying that the highest-paid state employee in Georgia should be at least this generous with his time and attention. he’s very, very well paid to be a leader on and off the field. there are dozens of other selfless volunteers in every community who make contributions like this every day – in churches, organizations, and clubs. but they don’t pull down 3.5 million a year. Coach Richt – this is exactly what you should be doing, and it’s sad that so many seem awestruck that you would.
mpk7441
February 11th, 2011
5:14 pm
I am a huge Dawg fan now proudly representing in San Antonio. I too have at times been very frustrated with the coaching, however this article is written to only pass on a wonderful truth that many already know; CMR is a man of great character. period. It is not an invitation for those seemingly always negative folks who say, yea yea great guy but he can’t beat Florida..fire him… Let our hearts be filled with pride and the knowledge that UGA has the very best man possible wearing the Red and Black….
.
ER
February 11th, 2011
5:14 pm
how – Shut up already. Obviously you hate UGA and CMR and that’s fine. Please wait for another blog to post your mindless dribble on…… You have a lot of class there, too bad it’s all LOW!
suwaneedawg
February 11th, 2011
5:15 pm
It amazes me how s many freaking idiots come on here and make comments that show nothing but immaturity and ignorance at it’s highest level. And the sad part is some of these type of comments come from so called Dawg fans. I can understand the ignorance of a UGA Tard, I mean the tard explains him to a tee but, the people who say I am a dawg fan and it is all about the wins and character means nothing, you are idiots. It gets real tiring to come on these blogs and see the stupidy and before anyone says “well suwaneedawg, stay off” I can’t. I come on here and feel sooo much better about myself because of your character flaws and ignorance that I just have to tune in. For that, I thank you.
More to life than football
February 11th, 2011
5:18 pm
@suwaneedawg
Amen my friend
More to life than football
February 11th, 2011
5:19 pm
@5150
I truly try to not let people like you provoke me, but the world would be a better place if you were not in it.
Barkin'Dog
February 11th, 2011
5:23 pm
ColumnDawg – February 11th, 2011 4:43 pm
However, all that matters in the long run is that he produce a winning program and some championships. That’s what pays the bills and gets people in the seats in Athens! He is the nicest coach in the SEC maybe America. But he hasn’t been to the SEC championship game in forever and if he doesn’t win it this year he is gone! No matter how nice he is.
When you’re only 15… I guess 5 years does seem like “forever.” You’re a PUTZ!
Ramguy
February 11th, 2011
5:23 pm
This was a classy move by the players and CMR. Good for them. My hat’s off to them. However when Fall rolls around Richt had better win ballgames. Not trying to throw a wet blanket on this great deed but only trying to be real. If the Dawgs go on another losing streak next year, all these kind of feel good stories like this in the world aren’t going to help him. The same people who have his back now will turn on him quickly.
dagrapevine
February 11th, 2011
5:25 pm
i think mrs.rome is with the valdosta city school system,not the lowndes school system.what most on here dont realize is coach richt had a 30 second encounter with james and remembered their conversation some 3 1/2 weeks later.no one knew he was going to do this and he took it upon himself to do it.
james walked the walk of faith and shared his faith on a daily basis.there was never any doubt he loved jesus and he was a soul winner.
now thats a testimony!
Barkin'Dog
February 11th, 2011
5:31 pm
5150 UOAD —
From now on, I refuse to read ANYTHING you have to write… I’ll just ignore it. And I encourage all of the civil, decent-character folks on these blogs to do the same.
Your handle should be banned, as well as anything else you try. You’re a worm of the largest degree. now go crawl back in that hole you dwell in.
Smiling Jack
February 11th, 2011
5:32 pm
“Would Nick Saban do something like that?” Most certainly he would as would Urban Meyer. Give us a break you petty jerks. You don’t have a corner on compassion, class or morals. Judgemental jerks.God bless the Eunice family in their time of loss and sorrow.
Barkin'Dog
February 11th, 2011
5:46 pm
5150 UOAD —
I don’t give a rats arse what your blog name is, or what it stands for. It’s what you say, without thinking — or too much DRINKING! Such as the corrections you have to post after writing and posting without looking at what you wrote. I don’t care about spelling or typos either… just the content of your message, and the content of your character.
Have a blessed day.
ATLNole
February 11th, 2011
5:50 pm
Richt has always been a class act and I wish the Eunice family, Richt and the Dawgs nothing but the best.
True Georgia Fan
February 11th, 2011
5:55 pm
I have stayed a Mark Richt fan all along. This just reinforces my faith in him as a human being and as a coach. Coach Richt sent an autographed picture of himself to my daughter when she was terminally ill. It was then that I realized that winning is not everything. I am glad that others can see that now. Coach Richt is a winner on the field and in life. He is truly a father figure to so many of the Georgia players. Go DAWGS!
icedawg
February 11th, 2011
6:01 pm
I am glad that Coach Richt and his staff do not read the blogs. It is mostly venting, or more so, hyperventilating from people who have an opinion and want to convince themselves that they are experts on a particular matter. Like this.
Coach Richt is a man of of the highest integrity and great compassion as this gesture showed. He is a proven winner. The last few years have been disappointing to everyone, including him. He will eventually turn it around.
Buford T. Pusser
February 11th, 2011
6:03 pm
I am a diehard Tech fan but this only reinforces what I knew about Mark Richt all along, he exudes class and is a good Christian man. I hope this silences some of the critics calling for his ouster. There is more to life than a football game. He just reminded us of that.
The Sheriff is humbled.
jfdawg
February 11th, 2011
6:05 pm
I had to ask Coach Richt for a letter one time, for a young person who was down and out, I ask him to encourage him, and low and behold, I received a letter and so did that young person. Folks, having coaches make young folks succeed is the game. Yes, I have said before, I am a donor and want to win when I am in my seats. But, it is actions like this tragic loss, that shows that we need to temper, and work together to achieve. With the direction and help of Greg McGarity, we are on the right track. Yes, he will right the course, and we will win again. Thanks for CMR for the words of encouragement, my coach, is my heroe and I could not tell you how many games we won over the four years. But, he has supported my family all my life. As Larry would say “Get The Picture” may this young person rest in peace, and when he looks down on Sanford Stadium in September, may he have the best seat in the house…CMR will not forget you….
dawggirl
February 11th, 2011
6:09 pm
Is a shame that the real author was not hard to find if you use Google but he is not be recognized in this blog.
http://timesenterprise.com/opinion/x353714385/Winning-isnt-everything
ugab
February 11th, 2011
6:25 pm
Mark Richt is a class act. All fans want is wins. MR wants to win. I don’t want another coach. Its going to take more than 1 season to get this football team on the righ track. Injuries are a part of football. Young men making mistakes and learning from these mistakes is not a bad thing. Players leaving early for the NFL is not a bad thing. Money talks! MR is the man for the job.
UGA Student
February 11th, 2011
6:30 pm
I had the pleasure of being at the funeral to see this first hand. Talk about a wave of emotions taking over the service, the letter and jersey completely overwhelmed us all.
I wrote the Red and Black (The UGA Student newspaper) about this two days after the funeral, but sadly it was overlooked and no one ever acknowledged this great thing. Thanks to the AJC for highlighting this. Thank you Coach Richt, and I know the Valdosta community thanks you as well.
Roger
February 11th, 2011
6:36 pm
Damn good man, First Class all the way, there are some things better than wins and losses and OUR COACH is the man, thanks Coach for showing life is more important than a bunch of bums getting pissed about someone not getti\ng enough touches or we don’t blitz enough, You go above and beyond what many coaches don’t, Thanks,
rosgator
February 11th, 2011
6:37 pm
Its time for UGA players to step up and “police” themselves and get the heat of CMR. I cannot control my one 21 year old. So i know he cannot control about 90 kids in a town like Athens. Its far different from Tuscaloosa, Auburn and even Gainesville FL and ATL is short drive (see former AD file). The kids in the UGA program need to “man up”.
SuperB
February 11th, 2011
6:38 pm
Pure class and heart
Johnnyboy says
February 11th, 2011
6:44 pm
Had someone read a letter and then presented a jersey to the family at the funeral ?????…. And you guys are proud. You are probably right when you say, “I bet Saban wouldn’t have done that” ! I bet he wouldn’t either ! Just a bit tacky, don’t you think ?
Douglas
February 11th, 2011
6:47 pm
To the Alabama fans saying that we should not bring up what would Saban do in this situation: I’m sorry guys but he may be a great coach when it comes to coaching but when it comes to how he treats players: he is not great at that. To recruit someone and then discover they did not live up to his expectations and then to ask them to take a medical scholarship is reprehensible and disgusting. When things have not worked out for some of the UGA players, Richt has always honored their scholarships. That is classy: Saban is not. Saban is equal to the statement Michael Douglas said in the first Wall Street Movie: Greed is good.
rosgator
February 11th, 2011
6:48 pm
And one more thing. what UGA needs is a Fella with attitude like Nick Fairley or Brandon Spikes. Dawg nation you all may whine about those two; but in your hearts you know its what every team needs both on the field in in the locker room.
10SEConds
February 11th, 2011
7:01 pm
Mark Richt exemplifies the best instincts in the university, the state and the program. I remember what one television announcer told America after the ‘80 title (when I was a student): “Vince Dooley is a credit to his profession.” That made me almost as proud to be enrolled at UGA at the title itself. The same can be said of Mark Richt, and one day, it will be in the same circumstances. I’ve said it before. It’s not worth winning a title if your team doesn’t do it based on the program’s traditions and values.
GT 65
February 11th, 2011
7:03 pm
Thanks Coach Richt for having moral character and caring for other. I have watched your years at UGA and have alot of respect for you. Thanks for being a Christian Coach. Win are lose in this world you will be a winner in the next. God Bless.
May James rest in peace..I know he was a Christian and my prayers are with his family.
5150…I’m also praying for you. You really need to wake up.
Mike
February 11th, 2011
7:08 pm
A class act from one of the classiest coaches in football. God bless CMR! I’m glad he is UGA’s coach and hope it stays that way.
Deepdiver
February 11th, 2011
7:09 pm
Mark Richt is a classy man soon to be without a job!
Robin
February 11th, 2011
7:15 pm
I live in Valdosta, but I was not fortunate enough to meet James Eunice. However, I followed his story from beginning to end, and I was heartbroken for his family when it ended as we feared. Thank you to Mark Richt for reaching out to them. I cannot imagine their pain.
GT fan
February 11th, 2011
7:18 pm
Richt is the best thing going for uga football…be careful what you wish for…you could get someone worse. I’m a GT fan but Richt is 1st class all the way.
b
February 11th, 2011
7:22 pm
Thank you, Coach Richt.
God bless the Eunice family
UThe
February 11th, 2011
7:25 pm
Wherever your treasure is, there your heart and thoughts will also be.
Bitter daws fan
February 11th, 2011
7:30 pm
after spending five years in the desert—well life is never to be taken for-granted. live every day like it could be your last.
Ps: long and safe journy our falling young dawg–
sissyuga
February 11th, 2011
7:32 pm
Wow, how thoughtful and heartfelt. What a special way to pay tribute to a precious child.
memphisdawg
February 11th, 2011
7:41 pm
The man is pure class. He actually took the time during the week of the Florida game in 07 (the touchdown celebration game) to write my dying father a letter. At the time my dad was going through chemo and his spirits were down. The letter told him that the Georgia family were praying for him and that he should keep fighting. Finish the Drill. It meant so much to him and for a little while he gave that cancer hell.
Tech Man
February 11th, 2011
7:41 pm
God bless CMR and God bless the family
ALLDAWG
February 11th, 2011
8:26 pm
God Bless this family. Burying a child isn’t the natural order
and these folks need to be lifted up.
tell me again
February 11th, 2011
8:30 pm
If CMR can have 8 good years out of 10 every decade in the toughest conference in the country and be the man he is – I’ll take that any day of the week. This story cuts to the core of what we SHOULD be concerned with….real life……not wins and losses. If my son were a div. 1 recruit there is no where and no one I would rather have coach him period, end of story. I know football is a business and it is all about the money – but this article just shines the spotlight on how totally screwed up our priorities and attitudes have become in this day and age. It’s nice to win…It’s essential to live a good life and to become the human being you are capable of being. My hat is off to CMR……..DGD!
wdm
February 11th, 2011
8:32 pm
Mark Richt is a good guy. He is an awesome coach. UGA administration would be foolish to let a bunch of snout nosed, 18 to 30 year old over testeroned, fair weathered fans and jealous sportswriters run off the likes of Coach Richt.
Firebrand
February 11th, 2011
8:34 pm
How has this not made national news? I want to thank the gentleman from Thomasville for bringing this out into the light for everyone to learn from. I am a grown man and really not a big Georgia fan, but damn, that made me tear up. I cannot believe you idiots that actually can say that he ‘better win’ or else he’s done. Did you not just read that?? UGA people, you better be holding on to a man like that with all you got in you. There ain’t many left like that.
Sherrie
February 11th, 2011
8:34 pm
This is the reason we want Mark Richt as our coach. What a wonderful man and mentor to these young men although some do not always follow his leadership……but that is their choice. Love ya. Coach!!!
wally
February 11th, 2011
8:39 pm
I foR one hve made some very bad remarks about the coaches of the Georgia Football team after CMR remarks ont the death of this young gentleman I must above all apologize for the statements I made. Asking for the firing of coach Richt and Mike Bobo. I ask the Bulldog family for forgiveness. Let us forget the past and have a great 2011 footbaall season whether we win or lose. GO DOGS
not a tare
February 11th, 2011
8:41 pm
I bet if these two youngsters had not of signed with the puppie dawgs, Richt would not have given this youngster one thought.
Tares are everywhere, especially in Valdosta.
jumbeauxtiger
February 11th, 2011
8:45 pm
An awesome gesture and a class act by Coach Richt.
Geaux Tigers
Ole Yeller Dawg
February 11th, 2011
8:47 pm
In this day and age, with so much corruption around, this restores my faith in my fellow man that we have a coach (Mark Richt) who is not afraid to display his beliefs while being called-out by the nonbelievers and naysayers!
The article (by Randy Young) was very well written and spot on……” Winning isn’t everthing”…..it’s really sad that a young life had to be lost (James Eunice) to teach us this lesson and awaken the Bulldog Nation .
My condolences go out to the Eunice family……you have lost a son, a brother, a loved one. I can only imagine your pain. I for one, will always remember James Eunice (DGD) as the one who gave his all, to enlighten and remind me that “winning isn’t everything”, I can only hope the rest of the state of Georgia will get the message too!
I salute you, Coach Mark Richt, for a job well done “Sir”!!!!
For the bone heads out there who don’t quite get it…….I forgive you, for you do not know, what you do.
Kramer
February 11th, 2011
8:53 pm
I would love 5 minutes with 5150. You may not always be able to teach respect but I bet I could beat it out of him. Scum of a human being.
dawgs10
February 11th, 2011
8:59 pm
reading all of the heart warming statements about Coach Richt causes me to smile and feel good about our coach. and then People like columndawg and phil posts something stupid. there is always “that person”.
Hit A Single
February 11th, 2011
9:03 pm
Just another example of what many Coaches like Coach Richt do in some tough times. Coaches touch the lives of so many young people, but they are criticized and bashed by people that don’t have a clue. My thoughts and prayers to the family and the Valdosta community. And I have said it from day one that Coach Dooley made one great hire in the hiring of Coach Richt. Thank you for everything you do Coach Richt.
Barkin'Dog
February 11th, 2011
9:47 pm
I wasn’t going to mention it until I read other posts about Coach Richt’s kindnesses. I wrote him about 3 years ago when my Navy son was in the Persian Gulf on the USS Harry S. Truman. He was a little down, and homesick, so I asked Coach to write him a note of encouragement, and he did. My son couldn’t believe it… it meant the world to him to get a letter from his favorite coach. I can’t thank him enough.
Snoop Dawg
February 11th, 2011
10:03 pm
Mark Richt is obviously a very nice man. He is also a very good recruiter.
These are nice, but we pay him three million dollars a year to be a good coach. You can buy a bus load of preachers and salesmen for $3M. What we are paying the money for is for a top notch college football coach. He is not a good coach.
UGA will not win another SEC championship as long as Mark Richt is the head coach.
Firebrand
February 11th, 2011
10:04 pm
You know what, I’ve been thinking about this thing, and Mark Richt reminds me of one of those old generals who was so rooted in his faith that he had no hesitation putting himself directly in the line of fire because he knew deep down that because whatever happened was part of His plan and that meant it was all going to be allright. He’s the kind of man that historically foot soldiers have wanted to lead them into war. An old fashioned kind of faith and leadership by example. I ain’t gonna say what team I follow because I’d catch heck for it, but I’d be honored to have my kid play for this man.
Skitty Fritty
February 11th, 2011
10:06 pm
If my 11 year old son gets the opporunity to play College football then I know who will get my endorsement.
Firebrand
February 11th, 2011
10:08 pm
Hey Snoop, did you know that Richt is the winningest coach percentage wise that UGA has ever had? Better than even the legendary Dooley, who would’ve been an average coach if somebody named Herschel hadn’t come along. If UGA gets rid of Richt he’ll be swooped up by an even bigger program in a heartbeat, and he won’t be the one coming off looking like an idiot in the process either.
Snoop Dawg
February 11th, 2011
10:10 pm
Any of you blathering hankies old enough to remember the movie “Marjoe”???
Lance
February 11th, 2011
10:18 pm
My wife and I are season ticket holders, but we aren’t huge contributors or anything. My wife’s brother played for UGA under Ray Goff. In 2003 she was in an auto accident and lay in a coma for 10 days before being admitted to the Shepherd Center for 10 weeks of rehabilitation. Mark Richt wrote her a detailed letter giving her words of encouragement as she participated in her therapy. He wrote some things that he said he tells his players when they are beaten down and tired. An autographed football followed a few weeks later. He didn’t have to do all of that. We have never even personally met him. He had nothing to benefit from doing what he did. He is just an unbelievable human being.
Snoop Dawg
February 11th, 2011
10:21 pm
Hi there Brotha Firebrand.
Listen, what if Richt’s record over the past ten years is better than any other UGA coach’s? What about his record since Donnan’s recruits matriculated? Or after Van Gorder left after Richt didn’t give him a decent raise? The past four years have shown a steady decline each year in almost every single statistic until we are now cellar dwellers with a losing record. Those are the facts.
Georgia is such a rich pool of high school football talent, only an idiot could not win at the state’s flagship univerisity with such a football tradition (7th best winning record, 4th best bowl record).
Ever heard the old adage that the numbers don’t have to be right, but they have to add up? Richt’s numbers don’t add up. Any objective analysis shows that he is a substandard coach, leader, disciplinarian, or strategist of football. That being said, he is an honorable religious man who has shown that he can recruit talent.
He has demonstrated that he cannot coach up raw talent.
So, when you add it up, I do not agree with you that he will be “swooped up by an even bigger program.” He would be suited for a mid-level team in the ACC, however or something similar.
The bottom line is that Richt cannot get us to the promised land. No more championships for UGA while he is head coach.
I don’t know about you, but I love the Dawgs. I consider them as symbolic of me. I have worked hard and demand nothing less than the best. So should the Bulldog Nation. Richt isn’t it.
If so many UGA graduates are OK with perpetuating a mediocre program while paying Richt about $3 Million a year–about $100 per year for every student at the UGA– then I believe that a lot of diplomas need to be recalled, because these folks evidently didn’t learn very much while in college in Athens.
Firebrand
February 11th, 2011
10:33 pm
Snoop, I think your love for the FOOTBALL Dawgs is clouding your vision of what is a high priority and what ain’t. I am not a Georgia fan, per se, but I am a fan of doing the right thing. You have a winner at UGA on AND off the field, and if you’d trade him for ANY other coach in the SEC right now you’d prove the point of the author of this story. The sense of what really matters has been so screwed because of the shallowness of Americans in 2011 that it really makes you wonder how close to hell our handbasket really is.
Tom in ATL
February 11th, 2011
10:34 pm
Snoop -
Perpetuating mediocrity? UGA went 6-7, and 8-5 the year before that. BUT Perpetuately for 8 years prior Mark Richt led this same team into the top 10 year after year after year. Did he suddenly forget how to coach? It’s alot easier to build, then sustain. That’s why Nick Saban and the like jump ship every 4/5 years. If you commit to something long-term – guess what – you’re going to have ups and downs. And it’s sure easy to kick someone when they are down isn’t it?
What happened to Urban Myer when he lost Teebow? Spurrier just won his first SEC EAST title in what – 7/8 years at USC? Auburn just won the National title – but they have lost 4 of their last 5 games to UGA. The son don’t shine on the same Dawgs Arse everyday. Grow up and quit whining when the going gets tough.
John '90
February 11th, 2011
10:35 pm
Like several others posted, I too teared up reading this piece. Incredible. Makes me even prouder to have MR as the coach at my alma mater. He lives the life of a follower of Jesus Christ. I work in the news business. Reading between the lines, this story came out because it had to. The truth always does. It’s beyond me how people can wedge the woes of the team on the field into such an inspirational story that speaks so much more to life, the fragile nature of it and the depth of a person’s heart. Prayers for the Eunice family. This is a clarion call. May God Bless.
Bama Fan #2
February 11th, 2011
10:36 pm
Mark Richt is a great guy and I wish Georgia wins every football game this season!!!
Just_Another_Man
February 11th, 2011
10:46 pm
What a display of class by someone I consider to be one of the best. As a parent I cant even imagine the feelings that the Eunice family is feeling. I can say this, as one of the members of the law enforcement community who was part of the recovery effort, I’ve never met a better group of people than the Eunice Family. They were so gracious, loving, and kind at a moment when I know their hearts were breaking. They were trying to comfort others in the midst of their toughest hour. It makes me, a grown man, cry like a baby. What a well deserved gesture to the family and to the memory of a wonderful young man.
Apostle
February 11th, 2011
11:14 pm
There are more important things in life than football.A very nice gesture on Richt’s part.
macrotech
February 11th, 2011
11:35 pm
Good form Coach Richt….good form!
BobbyDodd21/20
February 12th, 2011
12:03 am
Way back to Dynamite Goodloe in Valdosta, everybody whomever jocked up heard of Valdosta,..to this matter by Coach Richt, the families will never forget the Coach’ and others efforts..RIP
Snoop Dawg
February 12th, 2011
12:09 am
Tom in ATL:
If your theory of it being so hard to sustain a championship program, then UGA should follow a strategy of changing out coaches every 4-5 years. That’s what is expected in any other profession where such an obscene salary is given to those at the top.
Don’t patronize me. I don’t know who you are or what you have accomplished, but I would advise you to honor our tradition and demand better coaching than Mark Richt has given. He has cheated a lot of Georgia talent. You might say just look at all the successful NFL players. I say there should be many, many more. The recruiting ratings support me, not you Tom.
So get a hold of your emotions, get your head screwed on straight, swear off the Koolaid, and use your brains if you value your univerisity’s winning heritage. That is, if you actually have a degree from UGA.
hind tit
February 12th, 2011
12:32 am
After reading all these blogs for the last three years a movie came to mind called Facing The Giants. I think it was about a high school football team and it’s coach and the troubles and trails they had to endure on and off the field. Mark Richt had a small but very moving part addressing and encouraging the coach and team. I’m ashamed to say looking back over the last three years Richt has been Facing The Giants called the bulldog nation. He’s been ridiculed,slandered,called stupid called a thief and every unthinkable,hateful thing that could be said about a human being yet he’s never fired back or said anything bad about anybody or anything said about him. No one held him down and shoved money in his pocket against his will. If you have never seen this movie i recommend watching as it will leave a lasting imprison on anyone that watches it. An encouraging word to the coach and team I’m sure would be greatly appreciated.
christophorm
February 12th, 2011
1:14 am
Even though it’s right to pay players a salary for risking their health, for life, so fans and drunks can cheer and eat chicken wings,CMR would never do it because it’s breaking the rules, even though some do and it’s still cheating, as they hold up the NC trophy.Duck hunting has been the cause of death of atleast two young lives in south georgia, in the last few months.when CMR figures out this kid nick marshall from wilcox co. is alot like charlie ward talent wise, it’s going to be on.
BDJ
February 12th, 2011
1:52 am
@ Bulldawg: “You perfectly articulated my thoughts. CMR is a great man – period. But he is also THE football coach of THE Univ of Georgia. As a fellow alum, I expect to win, every time my team steps on the field – period.
And that’s all there is to it.”
What kind of a morally-deficient idiot are you and those like you who would insert your inane thoughts about winning football games in a thread about a coach and some players trying to console a family who lost a child/brother/cousin/friend/what-have-you.
You and your kind make me want to vomit. It’s a freaking game. Your whole ego is lamenated to the team of your choice’s win/loss record.
Get a freaking clue, loser. You aren’t one of MY fellow alums, that’s for sure. The folks I went to school with have bigger brains and hearts than that. I love UGA football as much as any alum who ever set foot in a classroom at UGA, but it is only a game that lasts for 60 minutes. After that, it’s back to chopping wood and carrying water….
Let go of the win-loss record and get a real life.
dawgman
February 12th, 2011
2:27 am
NOBODY had questioned cmr’s faith, his strength as a Christian, and the genuine “goodness” that he possesses. if I was starting a Sunday School class he would be my “dream teacher”.
like it or not, he is judged a failure or a success by w’s.
if we lose the opener next season, let’s see how far this good will toward cmr goes.
#5 win% among active coaches
February 12th, 2011
2:29 am
Enter your comments hereSnoop who are you going to get better cmr only problem was being too loyal to martinez fixed then installing new defense last yr i think you were the guy who took your ball and went home in the middle of the game almost feel sorry for you almost
HD27
February 12th, 2011
3:40 am
I know Richt doesn’t do stuff like this for publicity, but I couldn’t believe after reading this article this morning, that it made ESPN tonight. Goes to show you can’t judge people, because I was wrong when I said a story like this this would never make ESPN. HA! God bless you CMR, and God bless you too Bill for the great post! KUDOS!
Norwegian Bulldog
February 12th, 2011
7:31 am
Thanks coach Richt, for representing UGA so well, you are a class act.
Sugar Hill Dawg
February 12th, 2011
7:50 am
As the dad of three (21, 19 & 15), I find it impossible to express my sadness for the family of James Eunice. The gesture by CMR was truly meaningful. I have no doubt it brought a degree of comfort to the young man’s family. I coached in Gwinnett County during my teaching career – until you’ve walked in the man’s shoes, you have no idea how close the relationships become between coach and player. I still have contact with many of my formers players – I’m glad I had some measure of influence in their lives. Keep up the good work Coach!
birddawg
February 12th, 2011
8:04 am
CMR may not be a National Champion at UGA ( yet ) but he has always been a National Champ when it comes to being CLASSY. Go Dawgs.
If UR smart
February 12th, 2011
8:06 am
Nice. Now that’s how you build a program. CMR is to be commended.
wolfbait67
February 12th, 2011
8:16 am
took a while to read as I wiped my eyes………damn good article and damn good man……..AMEN
Nick
February 12th, 2011
8:37 am
Mark Richt is so classy. What a class act. I’m sure he’ll have the backs of all incoming student athletes when they get arrested and he lets them keep playing because having a good football program is what will save his job.
This isn’t even the first classy thing Richt has done this week. When Wayshaun Ealey didn’t show up for a punishment run, in addition to having been arrested previously, Richt went ahead and suspended him in the meaningless early offseason instead of kicking him off the team. THAT IS CLASS PEOPLE. You can bet Wayshaun Ealey will be in the backfield on Saturdays, even with his impressive track record of arrests and insubordination. Class.
Keep the program classy Mark.
Terry
February 12th, 2011
8:55 am
Nick, I guess you never do anything wrong, next time you make a mistake at work, maybe, they should just fire you, instead of giving you a chance to do better.
Nick
February 12th, 2011
8:58 am
If I got arrested and my job asked me to do something as an act of repentance, and I didn’t show up, I would be fired on the spot.
I do plenty of things wrong. Getting arrested isn’t one of them. I don’t because I know there are consequences…Unless you A. play for the University of Georgia football program and B. are good.
UGAgirl Fan
February 12th, 2011
9:10 am
TO bulldawg59 :”It involves keeping the players in line. And it involves being an exceptional judge of talent, both on the staff and on the field. No one can argue that Richt has not been overall successful during his time in Athens. But that level of success has been trending downward in recent years. It first began about midway through his tenure here where every year, between the bowl game and the next season, 5-10 players would get in trouble and end up being suspended, kicked off the team, or transferring.”
Response- He cannot babysit them 24/7 he can only give them the rules and regulations and then penalties for breaking them, it is of THE PLAYERS free will to do what they want! That is the reason for players being suspended, kicked off the team or transferring- DUH?!!!!!! CMR was doing his job-enforcing it! It was the player’s fault not the Coach’s, unless you expect him to hire a Babysitter for them, Players have a freewill. Just like you are given a Drivers License and you are given limits to follow, it is your choice- or you deal with the law if you do not!
CMR is making the changes and I have supported him every season, no matter if it was winning or losing because I believe in him, UGA is not bigger than him as you quoted. He has what it takes and will do it but with bandwagon fans, which you seem like that do not support him unless it is a winning season, where do the players and him get inspiration from? I mean Fans, true Fans like myself do not jump ship and we encourage and send positive suggestions-not “you need to be fired”!!!!! What he did with that letter was awesome and incredible and will go along way in a positive direction. Just saying my opinion which is I support CMR and always will, he is a blessing and I believe in him and the 2011 season-GO UGA!!!!!!!!
kershdawg
February 12th, 2011
9:16 am
In an era where winning seems to be all that’s important, as a graduate of UGA, I am so thankful to have a coach representing our great university that truly cares about people. Always a fan of you and what you represent CMR! I am so sorry for your loss Eunice family!
mcdaviddawg
February 12th, 2011
9:20 am
While everyone is celebrating how wonderful this is, and it is a nice thing for sure. What I want to hear is some special effort for what he is paid 3 mil . There the story is far from complete. HE’s had a great year of spinning for which he’s tops. The recruiting now given as heavily due to Bobo as Richt spent most of the recruiting season allowing the wonderful recruits to visit him in his office. The man con’t or won’t coach and no amount of bing the good “preacher” will change that. Fire Richt. Thank goodness this should be his last year. And yes I would rather have Saban.
BILLY JACK
February 12th, 2011
9:28 am
NICK-THE WORLD WOULD BE ALOT BETTER WITHOUT PEOPLE LIKE YOU-FEEL FREE TO JUMP OFF THE NEAREST BRIDGE-IM SURE YOU ARE SOME BITTER TECHIE WITH NO LIFE.FOR YOU TO CHIME IN ON THESE 2 PLAYERS AND THIS GREAT MAN SHOWS WHAT KIND OF PERSON YOU ARE.
excessive celebration
February 12th, 2011
9:54 am
Yes Richt is a heck of a nice guy. We didn’t need this one incident to prove that. The question is do we want a nice guy or a championship? It seems dawg fans are split on this issue. Do we want a coach or a sunday school teacher? I want a championship and some national respect to go along with the top ten recruits, facilities, fan base, and hype. Its a do or die year, no questions about it. I’m tired of being a laughing stock on the feild and in the media. Rich has respect as a nice guy, we couldnt afford him, but maybe he could speak at our church sometime. Football is entirely different, when you step on the field nice guys get pummeled.
vikesalot
February 12th, 2011
9:55 am
Jay Rome’s mom Laverne graduated from Lowndes High School in 1983 where she was also a cheerleader. She works for Lowndes County Board of Education. Even though she wears black and gold these days, she still bleeds crimson and silver!
Tech Guy
February 12th, 2011
10:05 am
Mark Richt is a good person who represents UGA and the State of Georgia in a honorable way.
Firebrand
February 12th, 2011
10:53 am
McDavid, you sir, are McIdiot. Did you lose a lot of money in a bet or something? Read the ink fella, you currently have the winningest head football coach the University of Georgia has ever had…EVER. Not Butts, not Dooley, not Donnan. I mean, what part of that do some of the people who are hollering for this man to be fired not get? Hey, as far as I am concerned, go ahead and get rid of him. But like I said before he ain’t gonna be the one coming off looking like a fool. Seems like plenty of the Bulldog fans already have that part down pat. What’s going pay off in the long run for the players? Winning a ring or being a good man? I know plenty of men who have won your coveted championships who aren’t worth a crap as human beings. Who wins that race?
FaithfulDawg86
February 12th, 2011
11:39 am
I have always maintained, and always will, that I would rather lose with class than win with crass. Mark Richt is a compassionate and caring human being who also happens to be a great football coach. Hats off to CMR, and I hope we keep him for many, many years to come.
Reality Bites
February 12th, 2011
11:53 am
Total Class Act…grats to UGA …. and Im a die-hard Tech fan. One of best stories Ive heard about in a long time.
give me a break here....
February 12th, 2011
12:04 pm
i am sure there are players that die every year that want to play for uga…. even as a walk on! so tell me…. how many of those young men got the same treatment?
is there any co-incidence the mark richts does this for a recruit who plays for a talent rich fb program?
while his sentiment was probably genuine i am positive there were other motives for doing this as well.
as they say… all is fair in love and recruiting.
answer me this bullfrog fans….. it is a common axiom that states a fb program takes on the character of the man/men who leads it. enter reverend richt…..
why is it that if this is true then a large body of uga thugs get arrested every year? something is not right here and it is not just the kids.
John Boehner
February 12th, 2011
12:08 pm
i cry all the time. does anybody doubt how much i LOVE the middle class an the poor? they should enshrine coach richt an i together in that special place for special people.
LMAO tooooo funny!
Firebrand
February 12th, 2011
12:17 pm
Break, these are not ‘kids.’ They are adults and THEY should be held accountable for their decisions and actions, not their head coaches. If a 19-year old football player decides to hold up a bank is that his coaches fault? Hell no! Whats the difference between that and driving drunk? Stop making excuses for young men choosing to act like children. If they drink and drive or beat up their girlfriends or generally act like a thug, we can’t blame them because ‘they are from a bad family situation and/or their head coach should’ve been doing a better job monitoring them.’ Am I missing something? I’d bet you don’t have a problem with the hundreds of NFL and NBA players who have fathered children out of wedlock either, do you? Oh but I forgot, most of them have championship rings, so they have a mulligan in regard to acting like a decent human being. Give me a flipping break. Man, if some of the people posting in here don’t validate the point of the original column I don’t know what does.
firebrand duh
February 12th, 2011
1:04 pm
i see the dont mess with uga police are deleting posts …. just because. its a shame they dont do that to uga fans who diss other schools on other blogs.
firebrand it is good to see that you hold no figures of authority to any kind of standard. here is hoping you have no kids of your own.
Dawg Whisperer
February 12th, 2011
1:10 pm
Coach Richt is simply living the faith for which he is frequently criticized. It cuts both ways but a Christian who practices what he believes will alternatively impress and infuriate many who do not necessarily share the same Christian faith. While I’m sure coach Richt appreciates the many kind comments relative to this situation, I’m certain he would have been perfectly content if his act of genuine kindness was not publicized. The reward comes from a personal relationship with Christ. Coach Richt is an ambassador for Christ first that translates secondarily to UGA. Good job coach and prayers go out to the family.
perk
February 12th, 2011
1:17 pm
hey NIck and MacDavid: time to go apply your hemmoroid medicine
Dawg Whisperer
February 12th, 2011
1:17 pm
Give me a break…. since you asked, the reason for second chances is predicated upon coach Richt’s faith in Christ who is the original author of forgiveness and second chances!
Firebrand
February 12th, 2011
1:59 pm
Hey Duh…ironic nick there buddro.
I have kids. One is 20, one is 14. The 20 year old is an adult, the 14 year old is not. If the 20 year old gets arrested, while I am going to be upset ultimately he is the one who will have to face the music, not me or my wife. Not so with the 14 year old. It’s called ‘the law.’ Might be a new concept to you, Duh. Might want to check it out.
ER
February 12th, 2011
2:01 pm
@Dawg Whisperer
Well said my friend!
sean
February 12th, 2011
2:03 pm
CMR is a class act!!!
DIT
February 12th, 2011
2:03 pm
I second that Dawg Whisper. Hit the nail on the head!
Brainiac(Dawg for life)
February 12th, 2011
2:09 pm
Why must you blast M. Carvell and other AJC writers? Michael stated as plain as can be stated that he got his info from some of those closely associated with this dreadful situation and did his best to get the whole story. I’m quite sure CMR did not want to call a press conference and reveal what he had done. That would be all some of you NEGATIVE NUTS would want is to cause CMR more grief because you would portray his actions as “Kissing up” to the sports community for future accolades to help him get the top players to sign with UGA. That is not the Richt way so just back off and allow the family and friends of the Eunice family a little time to adjust and deal with their loss. In my opinion it is a loss to society when a person such as this, regardless of age is taken from us before their time.
I've retired my sarcastic name for this article
February 12th, 2011
2:19 pm
Tech Guy — thanks for adding a touch of class from the other sideline. When it comes to the safety of young people there is (shoudn’t be) any distinction from Dawg, to Gator, to Jacket, to Tiger.
Dawg Whisperer –Brilliantly stated
give me a break here….–why don’t you give us a break and go away. Yes, UGA has had more off field issues than is acceptable. I don’t think anyone is saying otherwise. Yet, I don’t see the correlation between that and the nice gesture by CMR. Has it dawned on you that this young man’s family may be reading this thread? Congratulations on adding salt to a very painful, open wound. Nice job!
I've retired my sarcastic name for this article
February 12th, 2011
2:20 pm
Let me correct my comments to Tech Guy–When it comes to the safety of young people there is NOT (shouldn’t be) any distinction from Dawg, to Gator, to Jacket, to Tiger.
Apologies.
I've retired my sarcastic name for this article
February 12th, 2011
3:13 pm
I’ve had a few minutes to go back and read many posts from this thread. How sickening. 5150, give me a break here, and many others are exactly what is wrong with college football. How can you let your venom for another team allow you to pour your sour outlook on a fine gesture? Christian or not, UGA or not, football coach or not, what CMR was a fine gesture. I may be a bad sport when it comes to winning and losing, but I would respect any coach that takes 10 minutes to help console a grieving family. No way would I let my dislike for UF, UT, AU, SC, GT, or any other team make me think anything other than that was a nice thing for the coach to do.
5150, give me a break,– why did you click on this article in the 1st place? What were you thinking? “Oh, a nice article about CMR.” No, you saw it as just another opportunity to spit venom at a man just because he happens to coach a team you don’t like, regardless of whether this grieving family reads it.
When it comes to wins and losses, coaches and teams are fair game. When it comes to them being human, it is another story.
Everyone who has maligned CMR on this forum should be absolutley ashamed of themeselves, and find some way to apologize to the family of this young man.
I could never dream of criticizing a coach from another team for having an act of benevolence.
Dawg For Christ
February 12th, 2011
4:50 pm
Well, the bulldawg59 comment about sums it up! His view is right and wrong! So what exactly is a win? If your counting football wins, coach Richt will always have a counter on him. What have you done for me lately view. Win the game regardless. What Coach has is a heart that belongs to his Lord! While the rest of the bulldog nation is counting wins, he’s trying to develop young men by teaching them about their Creator. The football wins gets everyone excited. It means more money. Job security. Happiness among the Dawg nation. All of that is great stuff, the only problem is…. It does not last! Mr Eunice just did what the rest of us will do. He stepped off into eternity. Every Dawg will perish . This includes The great Vince Dooley, Hershel Walker, David Greene, David Pollock, Kevin Butler, Eric Zier, AJ Green, Matthew Stafford and even James Eunice. See when they meet their Creator, the question want be how many football games who won or how many good games you played while you attended UGA. Rather, what have you done for my Kingdom??? One win is a lie the other win is TRUTH. The lie is the one we all loved by the natural man. The Truth is one seeker by one who’s heart belongs to God. Rest assured Coach Richt wants to win and compete at the highest levels! But you can also rest in knowing this new heart is craving the opportunity to share Christ with his men that bear the red and black. He will win either way. If he keeps the job, Christ!!! If he looses the job, Christ! Reminds me of the Apostle Paul in Phil 1. My prayer for our coach. Poor out to these men! So when the AJ Green’s of the world step off into eternity the Dawgs want matter! But rather the Christ that lives in coach Richt got poured into him, that’s all that will matter! It’s not popular now, but later it’s all that counts. I would rather win later!! After all it’s just a game and it doesn’t mean I don’t want to win them. I just see the big picture.
Whisky Breath
February 12th, 2011
7:58 pm
CMR does these things for the publicity. Don’t pat him on the back. Pray for the family.
59bulldawg
February 12th, 2011
9:30 pm
I don’t believe Richt does these type things for publicity. I believe he is truly a man of Christian conviction. I think that is a good thing. But I don’t believe the University of Georgia or any major university football program in America will give him a pass for lack of consistent success on the field because of his actions off the field. That’s not hate. That’s not a win at all costs philosophy. And that’s not mixed up priorities. It’s simply reality. If you’re a welder and can’t consistently make a good weld, the fact that you may be a good Sunday School teacher will not be the primary factor in determining whether or not you will remain employed as a welder. Every nice thing said about Richt on this blog is true. I agree wholeheartedly. But if a decision has to be made at the end of the 2006 season it will be made first and foremost on what he has accomplished on the field and heavily tilted toward what he has done recently. That’s just the nature of the profession he chose.
59bulldawg
February 12th, 2011
9:44 pm
Sorry … that should have read 2011 season.
Firebrand
February 12th, 2011
10:56 pm
59, does one sub par season make a coach? Thank God the internet didn’t exist in 1977 or 1979 or your Dooley would’ve never had his 1980-1983 run, because the fans would’ve run him and Erk Russell out of town. Why am I even in this argument? I’m not a UGA fan!! You all go ahead and run the best coach you’ve ever had out of his job, the laughter you’ll be hearing won’t be directed toward him I promise you that!!
Big D Dawg
February 13th, 2011
1:06 am
I can’t believe it took the AJC fish wrapper this long to find out about the story. I was passing it around since 2/8 last week when I read it in the Thomaston paper online.
59bulldawg
February 13th, 2011
5:30 am
Firebrand you give this blog way too much credit. It’s more than one subpar season unless you only believe a losing season can be subpar. As for the possibility of Georgia running off the “best coach we will ever have” you should see that as an opportunity for your school. If it happens you should immediately fire your own coach and go for it!
Firebrand
February 13th, 2011
12:21 pm
59, I hate breaking it to ya, but you take Herschel Walker out of the equation and Georgia isn’t a whole lot better than a moderately successful program over the last 40+ years, much less a perpetual national contender. I think the UGA people have a very overinflated view of their own value, but thats from the outside looking in. I just know that good men are hard to find these days, and a good man who is a head coach is an even rarer bird. Like I said, I have no dawg in this hunt, so go ahead and run him off and sell your soul to the devil like so many of your SEC brethren have. I guess even integrity isn’t as important as winning a stinking ring. Like I said, the more some folks respond here the more the point of the original column is validated. I’m out to tend my own backyard…you UGA folks have at it.
59bulldawg
February 13th, 2011
3:28 pm
Firebrand, for someone without a “dog in this hunt” you surely do like to comment on our pound. Thanks for your enlightenment. Trouble is it don’t have a thing to do with Richt. Even more funny is your tone. All you defenders praise Richt for being such a good moral man … praise his Christian beliefs … and then proceed to attack those who disagree with you in the most un-Christian manner assuming that we are all stupid, care only about winning, or are all going to hell. If anyone has an overinflated opinion of themselves I suggest it is you sir. I know it’s a free country and people are free to read and write whatever they like, but if you dislike the Bulldawg nation so much and my comments especially, I suggest “tending your own backyard more often. Or at the very least limit your comments to topics concerning your own team. Yeah I know your handle is firebrand which indicates someone who likes to stir things up. But again that’s ironic for someone praising character and Christian virtue. Or is it you’re someone who likes to claim it but never practice it. But thanks for your opinion none the less. Unfortunately … I hate to break it to you … it’s no better or no worse than mine or anyone else who posts a comment on these blows.
59bulldawg
February 13th, 2011
3:30 pm
Sorry that sentence should read blogs. Autocorrect on a smart phone is not always so smart.
guenstige flugreisen
February 13th, 2011
5:14 pm
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appreciates CMR
February 14th, 2011
8:17 am
Whiskey Breath,
Get another shot of rot gut, and maybe the stupid fog will clear from your head. I would bet the biggest contribution you will make to mankind, is when you end up in jail or when you are pushing up daisies.
ty
February 15th, 2011
8:34 am
Did you actually feel someone wrote the email as a farce??? Did it take receiving it 10 times to convince you that this actually happened??? Wow!!!!!
bill jackson
June 27th, 2011
10:53 pm
…..Contrary to what some of you may want to preach…or even believe if you tell yourself enough times ….there is nothing more important than winning …to say there is a more lofty goal than winning is the mantra of second place ….I have heard richt himself say …( after a loss )I’m proud of our team …they never gave up ..they fought to the end ….did he find some satisfaction in that ? I hope not ………