Gridiron Glory: A History of Savannah State University Football
Savannah State University's football history is a tapestry woven with threads of tradition, resilience, and community pride. From its humble beginnings in the early 20th century to its current standing in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), the Tigers' football program has been a source of both excitement and challenges for the university and its supporters.
Early Years and Development
Savannah State University, originally known as Georgia State Industrial College for Colored Youth, first fielded a football team in 1902. These early teams laid the foundation for a program that would become deeply intertwined with the university's identity. The Tigers' gridiron efforts quickly became a focal point for student life and alumni engagement.
Transition to NCAA Division I FCS and the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC)
In 2000, Savannah State made a significant leap, transitioning to the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). This move marked a new era for the program, as it joined the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). During their time in the FCS, the Tigers faced both triumphs and tribulations, compiling a record of 80-137. The MEAC provided a competitive landscape, exposing the team to a broader range of opponents and challenges. In March 2010, Savannah State officially joined the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.
Return to NCAA Division II and the SIAC
In 2019, Savannah State opted to return to NCAA Division II and rejoin the SIAC. This decision reflected a strategic shift, allowing the program to realign with its historical roots and regional rivals. The SIAC, with its emphasis on tradition and community, provided a welcoming environment for the Tigers to rebuild and revitalize their football program.
Memorable Moments and Achievements
Throughout its history, Savannah State football has produced numerous memorable moments and achievements. The program's largest margin of victory came in 1992, with an astounding 87-0 triumph over Miles College. These moments serve as reminders of the team's potential and the heights it can reach.
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Black Football Classics
The Savannah State Tigers regularly participate in one or more black football classics each season, including the CSRA Football Classic and the Joe Turner Classic. These games provide a platform to showcase the team's talent and connect with a broader audience.
Challenges and Setbacks
Like many college football programs, Savannah State has faced its share of challenges and setbacks. In 2006, the program was placed on probation for three years by the NCAA, highlighting the importance of maintaining compliance and integrity. These experiences serve as valuable lessons, shaping the program's approach to governance and player development.
Key Figures and Personnel
Over the years, Savannah State football has been shaped by the contributions of numerous coaches, players, and administrators. Wesley McGriff, a class of 1990 alumnus, exemplifies the program's impact on individuals who have gone on to achieve success in the broader football world. McGriff, who played at South Carolina State for one year before transferring to Savannah State, started at outside linebacker for three seasons and was named the conference’s 1989 Male Academic Athlete of the Year. He has had a distinguished coaching career, including positions in the National Football League with the New Orleans Saints and with multiple schools from the Southeastern Conference. He was Savannah State’s interim head coach for three months in spring 1993.
Coaching Changes
The program has seen a number of coaching changes throughout its history. Robby Wells was named head football coach in December 2007. However, the university fired coach Lemon in November 2007.
Individual Game Highlights
Several individual games stand out. In one game, backup quarterback Czavian Teasett threw for 316 yards and three touchdowns, leading Southern to a 42-10 victory over Division II-member Savannah State for the program's first victory under coach Terrence Graves. Felix Harper threw five touchdown passes, and Juan Anthony Jr. had 140 receiving yards, as Alcorn State defeated Division II-member Savannah State 42-17. Jack Chambers threw two touchdown passes and ran for the go-ahead score as Georgia Southern overcame four lost turnovers to beat Division II-member Savannah State 24-19. Duane Nichols' fourth-quarter fumble recovery in the end zone gave South Carolina State a 21-17 victory over Savannah State. Marquell Cartwright, Kylil Carter, and Jeremiah Martin combined to rush for 280 yards and three touchdowns, carrying North Carolina A&T to a 28-12 victory over Savannah State. Jose Romo-Martinez kicked three field goals, and Delaware State won its second-straight game after starting the season with seven consecutive losses, beating Savannah State 25-6. D'Vonn Gibbons threw two touchdown passes, and Rashad Saxton ran for 118 yards and a score to help Savannah State beat Norfolk State 32-3.
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Traditions and Community Engagement
Savannah State's football program is deeply rooted in tradition and community engagement. The annual Homecoming game is a highlight of the year, drawing alumni, students, and community members together to celebrate Tiger pride. The Homecoming parade, campus activities, and alumni events create a vibrant atmosphere that showcases the university's spirit.
Savannah State University's Homecoming
Savannah State University's Homecoming is a cherished tradition that dates back decades, celebrating Tiger pride, community, and legacy. The history of Savannah State University (SSU) Homecoming is deeply rooted in tradition, pride, and community spirit. Founded in 1890 as Georgia State Industrial College for Colored Youth, SSU is the oldest historically Black public university in Georgia. Over the years, Homecoming has become one of the university’s most anticipated events, bringing together students, alumni, faculty, staff, and the local Savannah community for a week-long celebration. Homecoming at Savannah State dates back to the early 20th century, when the institution began organizing events to engage alumni and celebrate school pride. Initially, Homecoming activities were modest, often revolving around the annual football game, a tradition that continues to anchor Homecoming celebrations to this day.
Homecoming Football Game
The football game is central to SSU's Homecoming. SSU's Tigers football team, established in 1902, began competing in intercollegiate football during Homecoming in the early years. The Homecoming game became a focal point for alumni to return to their alma mater, rally behind the Tigers, and relive the sense of school pride they felt as students. The game, typically held on Saturday of Homecoming week, draws a large crowd of students, alumni, and community members.
Coronation
The Coronation of the Homecoming King and Queen is a long-standing tradition at Savannah State, where students elect their representatives to reign over the festivities. This ceremony has evolved into a grand event, emphasizing elegance, pride, and student leadership.
Homecoming Parade
A hallmark of SSU's Homecoming is the parade, which travels through the streets of Savannah and the campus itself. The parade features floats, student organizations, marching bands, local businesses, and community leaders. It has historically served as a link between the university and the broader Savannah community, showcasing school pride and inviting the city to join in the celebration.
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Campus Activities Board Events
Savannah State's Homecoming week is filled with activities organized by the Campus Activities Board (CAB). Events such as the Step Show, Stroll Off, pep rallies, concerts, comedy shows, and bonfires have become iconic parts of Homecoming, engaging students in a variety of ways that reflect the vibrant culture of SSU.
Alumni Engagement
SSU’s Homecoming is not just a student event-it has become a critical time for alumni to reconnect with their alma mater. Over the years, Homecoming has evolved into a significant reunion for alumni, with various events designed specifically for them, including alumni mixers, class reunions, and the golf tournament. The university’s Alumni Association plays an integral role in organizing these activities, ensuring that alumni remain actively involved in the university’s life.
Evolution and Modernization
Over the decades, SSU’s Homecoming has grown in scale and participation. The week’s events have expanded to include career fairs, coronation balls, ecumenical services, and community service projects. Tailgating has also become a beloved tradition, with alumni and students gathering to enjoy food, music, and fellowship before the football game. In recent years, SSU has integrated modern elements such as social media engagement, large-scale concerts, and celebrity appearances, enhancing the appeal of Homecoming for current students while preserving its historical essence for alumni.
Community Partnership
Savannah State’s Homecoming has always been more than just a campus event. It has become a significant occasion for the city of Savannah, with local businesses, residents, and organizations actively participating in the parade and other activities. The partnership between SSU and the city underscores the university’s impact on the region and its role as a key cultural and economic force in Savannah.
Current Significance
Today, SSUs Homecoming is a dynamic celebration that honors the university’s rich history and traditions while embracing the future. It is a time when the university comes alive with events that cater to all generations of Tigers, fostering a sense of belonging and unity among students, alumni, and the wider Savannah community.
Notable Players
Savannah State has produced several players who have gone on to professional careers, including Shannon Sharpe, a 1989 First team All American, former NFL player with the Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens, three-time Super Bowl champion, and former NFL's all-time leader in receptions (815) by a tight end (record now held by Tony Gonzalez). Other notable players include Troy Hambrick. These athletes serve as inspirations for current players and demonstrate the potential for success that exists within the program.
The Ted A. Wright Stadium
The Savannah State Tigers play their home games at Ted A. Wright Stadium. This stadium has been the site of countless memorable moments, providing a venue for fans to gather and support their team.
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