The bad start to the football season for The University of Georgia is causing some serious personnel changes in Athens. No, Mike Bobo is not out as offensive coordinator. Mark Richt is still in charge, but a very important change is about to be made.
A new Uga mascot will make his long-awaited debut at the Oct. 16 game against Vanderbilt in Sanford Stadium, Sonny Seiler told the Atlanta Journal Constitution today. Seiler, of Savannah, owns the line of white English bulldogs that have served as Georgia’s mascot since 1956.
The plan is to hold a “collaring” ceremony for Uga VIII before kickoff of the Vanderbilt game. He said UGA President Michael Adams, new athletic director Greg McGarity, Seiler family members and interim mascot “Russ” will participate in the ceremony.
Uga VII died unexpectedly on Nov. 19, 2009, of heart-related causes.
Russ, UGA VII’s 5-year-old half-brother, has been serving as fill-in mascot while the Seiler family identified and readied the next Uga. Russ was said to be too old to be considered for the role of Uga VIII. Russ had a 3-4 record as its mascot — 2-0 at the end of last season, but a disappointing 1-4 so far this season, so a change had to be made.
Let's wish the best for Uga VIII, on the field and off. If this Uga doesn't work out, we may have to look at replacing Seiler as the official breeder.