Factor 3: Instill “Bulldog Pride” in Georgia’s (and especially Atlanta Metro Area) Youth
Outside of the Grace of God, the Colonists of America’s Revolutionary War were victorious because they believed in their cause and had vested everything (financially, physically, spiritually, and emotionally) into the cause. On the other side, no personal investment would be realized by the average British foot soldier for his effort in the fighting. His main goal was to stay alive (only self-interest) and the Hessen (Germany) mercenaries only sought financial reward (self-interest). Neither the Redcoat nor the Hessen had any emotion attachment to the cause.
The Atlanta Metro Area looks upon its self as an entity in and of its self. Most Atlanta n’s migrated from outside of the Georgia Stateline. Their attitude is that they don’t need Georgia – Georgia needs them. And with that mindset, high school football players – and a lot of HS coaches – view UGA as just another out of state university in pursue of their talent. There is no link to the Bulldog tradition. There is no loyalty to UGA and its traditions. And at a frightening speed that mindset and ignorance of is spreading to Columbus, Augusta, Valdosta, Warner Robins, and Georgia’s remaining football talent pools.
The UGA athletic department, coaching staff, alumni, and current players – along with previous players must stop the hemorrhaging and reignite Bulldog Pride across the state and with in the bounds of the Atlanta Metro Area. UGA must reclaim its flagship role and as a source of pride for all Georgians – native and implanted. Granted Atlanta will be a tough nut to crack, but as a great dictator once said – “If we win the minds of their children, we won the battle.”
The UGA coaching staff and athletic department need to strike up an immediate love affair with high school coaches across the state. Mend any damaged fences, cuddle any wounded egos with local politicians, spread a little loving throughout those communities, encourage former Bulldog players get involved within their communities and visit area coaches and players, and show an interest in their local programs These alums could give their personal testimony of how being a former Bulldog has opened doors for them in life. And by all means, stop charging fans for their autograph when they appear at community and UGA sanctioned functions. And most important, reclaim Georgia’s youth- the preteens. Again, if you win them over, the ground work has been laid for your future.
If you’ve developed a pool of talent which has Georgia football first in their heart. The “Me First” mentality will not be an issue. And an abundance of young talent will be biting at the bit to be apart of the next Senior Class to assume ownership of their Georgia Bulldog team.