AJC > Sports > Columnists > Archives > 2008 > February > 14 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USSome fans dishonor Dooley with honor
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mark Bradley
Even when Georgia tries to do right by Vince Dooley, someone will insist it’s wrong. It has been this way since 2003, when Michael Adams erred in forcing Dooley out, and it is, regrettably, that way still.
Dooley’s many friends and admirers did him a disservice in that supercharged summer of ‘03, when they overplayed their hand to the extent that the man himself had to ask them to stand down. (It was at the Bulldog Club of Atlanta’s meeting that year that Mark Richt, who had just orchestrated Georgia’s first SEC football championship in two decades, wasn’t given the privilege of speaking last. That went to Dooley, lending the night the feel of a political rally.)
By now, we know where the Dooley zealots stand: They love him and hate Adams. They’re entitled to those feelings, but they help nothing by seeking to create a “cause” where none exists. The school has moved to build a garden — Dooley’s a big gardener, as we know — featuring a massive statue of the coach, and also to rename the part of campus where most of Georgia’s sports facilities are housed the Vince Dooley Athletic Complex. A nice gesture, right?
Not enough, two of Dooley’s former players told the AJC’s Chip Towers. Too little too late, said Buck Belue, and in the wrong place to boot. And what, Jeff Harper wanted to know, about renaming the stadium for Dooley?
I haven’t been the biggest fan of Adams, but at such moments I have some sympathy for the president (who can be both ham-handed and imperious). His fight with Dooley damaged him beyond repair — he was booed heavily during halftime at the Sugar Bowl — and nothing he does now will ever placate the Vinceniks.
By reacting so adversely to what should be a warm fuzzy moment, Dooley’s advocates have all but guaranteed that there’ll be no edifice-renaming — whether it’s Sanford-Dooley Stadium or Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium — until Adams is gone. The president, see, retains a considerable amount of pride.
I’m on record as saying the big hedge-holder should eventually become Sanford-Dooley Stadium, but I cringe every time his forces conjure up some fit of pique. Dooley was a great coach and a splendid AD, and he remains a prince of a guy. That said, a man of such grace would be the first to remind folks that it’s unseemly to look askance at any honor.
The best course is always to smile and say thanks, which is exactly what Vince Dooley did. “For me personally,” he told Towers, “I’m just appreciative and really humbled by the whole thing.”
Be magnanimous in any victory, however small, and maybe the next president will see fit to do something bigger.
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Comments
By Roswell Ed
February 14, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this
What about
The Ray Goff Urinals
at
The Jim Donnan Bathrooms?
You could name the feminine product dispensers after
Jim Herrick Jr!!
By reality check
February 14, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this
In my opinion we need to move past the Adams/Dooley conflict. I don’t like the way Adams handles things, but the Board of Regents backed him and nothing is going to change that.
Dooley fans, and I am one of them, should act with dignity and let it go. To do otherwise brings us down to Adams’ level, or lower.
Dooley will always be well remembered. Adams will not.
By G'Vegas Dawg
February 14, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this
Second!!
By steve
February 14, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this
He will get his just due in time.Until then let us cherish the honor he has received.
By G'Vegas Dawg
February 14, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this
Is this article “to be continued”? Where does it say how he is dishonored? Another wonderful piece of sh…I mean work by the Atlanta Urinal and Constipation.
By GT
February 14, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this
Let’s take a little trip around college football and see if we can measure how other colleges have honored their coaches. You make a man a general even in a banana republic if he is the top banana and Dooley was the top banana in the Bulldog nation which is actually bigger economic wise than most third world counties. The problem Adams is having is there might not be a Georgia as we know it today if Vince Dooley and his administration had not existed. You don’t make him a lieutenant and tell him to live with it. The state of Georgia has two great sporting events, Georgia football and the Masters in Augusta. Could you imagine treating Bobby Jones the father of the event, a Tech man I might add, in this manner? As a Tech guy I didn’t enjoy Dooley as much as the boys in Athens but can tell you a Georgia man, Billy Payne, is the keeper of Bobby Jones’ legacy and doing a fine job, and even I can appreciate what Vince Dooley has done for this state. What a dull place this would have been without him.
By reserviorDAWG
February 14, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
I like the simplicity of Sanford Stadium. I have a lot of respect for Dooley, but could care less if his name is added to the stadium.
By Clay
February 14, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Again, Mark Bradley’s amateur attempt at sensationalism proves waht a poor journalist he is. Bradley quit trying to stir something up with your tabloid style columns.
By Clay
February 14, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Again, Mark Bradley’s amateur attempt at sensationalism proves what a poor journalist he is. Bradley quit trying to stir something up with your tabloid style columns.
By Clay
February 14, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Again, Mark Bradley’s amateur attempt at sensationalism proves what a poor journalist he is. Bradley quit trying to stir something up with your tabloid style columns.
By Clay
February 14, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Again, Mark Bradley’s amateur attempt at sensationalism proves what a poor journalist he is. Bradley quit trying to stir something up with your tabloid style columns.
By Clay
February 14, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this
Again, Mark Bradley’s amateur attempt at sensationalism proves what a poor journalist he is. Bradley quit trying to stir something up with your tabloid style columns.
By dawg in dacula
February 14, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this
People need to realize that Vince Dooley is GOD and we should rename the school for him - UVD! Wait, that might have a different meaning!
By James Ralph Dockery
February 14, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this
Tech named their B-Ball court Cremins Court, did he win a National Title or do more for Tech than Coach Dooley did for UGA? Why does this guy hate Coach Dooley so much? He’ll leave UGA one day and then someone will step up for Coach, but it would be nice for him to see that happen, he’s not getting any younger. Mr. Adams you will go down as one of the most hated people in GA history. Not just UGA history.
By reserviorDAWG
February 14, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this
Clay, I think you got your point across.
By BHF
February 14, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this
Mark,
This is a nice article. As a proud alum and fan of Coach Dooley, I agree that criticizing Adams’ motion to honor the coach only makes Dooley supporters seem unappreciative and bitter. After all, Coach Dooley is a man of such humble character that will be honored to have his legacy remembered in any manner the administration sees fit. I assure you he also does not want to again have his fans rally against the hierarchy of the University administation. We are all loyal bulldogs, so I ask Dooley supporters to take the high road and not cast a feeling of ungratefulness over Coach Dooley or the bulldog nation.
By GT2
February 14, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
Clay - you are friggin’ brilliant! A dawg no doubt.
By Phil
February 14, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
Why did Adams Fire Vince Dooley? Was it because he wasn’t a good AD? Can somebody answer that? I have been a dawg fan my whole life 40 years. Did Vince do something I don’t know about?
By shane #1
February 14, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this
i am a dooley fan,have been since the sixtys,but i like the idea proposed by adams and evans.i do not like adams,more for his giant ego and the way he has run the school than for his handling of dooley.however,i think we are stuck with adams for some time to come,so we might as well make the best of the situation and support uga.roswell ed,i know you sound like a jerk sometimes,but geez man,can’t you show a little respect for one of your own?
By Boots
February 14, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this
Personally, I thought the article was very appropriate. While I’m a big Georgia fan and truly respect Dooley’s contribution to the Bulldog tradition, we need to moderate the effort to deify him. The honor that is offered is appropriate and should be recognized as such.
Regarding Clay, what kind of mindless numbskull are you to keep hitting the damn button. Enough already!
By Dawghead
February 14, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
It’s difficult to stand by, biting your lip, when a jackass, who loves the sound of his own voice and the look of his own picture more than UGA, does not embrace the university’s most revered living contributor.
What ticks people off, is that while the mercenary Adams stands in the schoolhouse door, so to speak, on this issue, the opportunity to pay a truly just honor (at the stadium) to Vince Dooley while he is with us could pass.
By Kevin
February 14, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this
As a Tech fan I love seeing the puppies get the ‘ol newspaper across the nose. I may not enjoy the Tech loses, but this sure is fun to listen to. Adams may be a JERK, but at least he is giving Tech fans something to smile about. I’m sure you puppies will not mind Tech fans getting enjoyment out of this. For the record, Dooley is a good man and deserves better.
By Nate
February 14, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this
As much as I relish any pain and anguish that comes UGA’s way, you people need to stop b*$%#ing about this. The HOPE scholarship and Adams have helped turn UGA from a B rate party school into a decent public university. And you’re even better at football.
I guess you’ll be moaning about this until the myopic slack jawed troglodytes that school had been graduating move away or die off. It’s the war of northern agression all over again.
Count your blessings and be happy with what you have you greedy fools.
By Florida Dawg
February 14, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this
One popular sports talk radio personality in Jacksonville, said yesterday (2-13) on air that the Univ. of Ga has no class as to how they are honoring Dooley. He went on to say that Dooley “has done more the university than anyone has or ever will” and is very disapointed to learn that Dooley’s name will not be a part of the studium. I hope that comes after Adams is gone.
By mcdawg
February 14, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
Dooley was NOT fired nor was he forced out-he retired as AD picked his successor and then changed his mind-i don’t blame adams a bit on thatand i think its highly unfair to adams regardless of how imperious he can be or all the other things that grate people about his personality
By Gene
February 14, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
It is far too simple to reduce the issue to Dooley v Adams. Dooley is the main player in transforming UGA from the party school of the 1950’ to the respected institution it is today. To call Adams a loose cannon would be to flatter him. He has done nothing positive for the University. He is a slimy politician who owes his job to the most corrupt and ineffective governor the state has ever had. Adams has personally relaxed admission and behavior standards for football players because Adams realizes that if Richt starts to lose big, the financial fat cats will make changes. When this finally happens, it will take a very long time for the University to recover. Until then, expect more of the same.
By Roswell Ed
February 14, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this
Clay-
You are an idiot. All you need to do is hit post once. Look at the note underneath [Post].
I know—- we could rename the UGA library the Clay Memorial Library because obviously that is where he got his learn’n!!!
By Jen
February 14, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this
Dooley absolutely deserves having the field named for him - being a long time Dawg fan and UGA alum, I’d like to see Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium. I think the garden and statue are a nice idea and great tribute to man who has done much for UGA. It may be a little sour grapes - but I do feel there should be some tribute to Dooley where the masses gather to celebrate the Dawgs on the gridiron.
As far as Adams goes - you can count me among the many who boo him every time he prances up or down the stairs of sect 125 on his way to the field. He can burn in the dark pit of hell as far as I’m concerned.
By roy hobbs
February 14, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this
clay u r a king-sized d*******…they need a jan kemp bust at the 40 yard line for all to remember it’s just a game the pursuit of knowledge is once again p** on by the bulldog clay go get bent
By jane
February 14, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this
Dooley did more for all Georgia sports than anyone has ever done. A complex is the right thing because he was more than just football for the U. of Ga.
By redfish
February 14, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
If dooley would be honest about why he had so much success at UGA, he would ask that the Stadium be named the ERK RUSSELL SANFORD STADIUM.
By Bob Sacamano
February 14, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this
Mark, you hit the issue right on the button. Some of these guys (many of them bloggers) are such fundamentalists about Dooley they make the evening news on Al Jazeera look tame by comparison. We even have people trying to denigrate what Coach Richt has done here in Georgia in such a short time, because in their warped way of thinking, doing so honors Dooley.
Like you can’t honor both Dooley and Richt, no matter what Richt does, and he’s on a very quick pace to surpass Dooley where it matters, in wins, winning percentage, bowl wins, bowl trips, SEC Championships, and National Titles… heck, he already has more sUGAr Bowl victories than Dooley did. It’s not fair to Dooley, who would be the first to chastise these people. It’s not right, and it’s not the way a true member of Bulldog Nation should act.
Personally, I’ve come to Hunk Erdown’s way of thinking about the stadium. If we name it Sanford-Dooley Stadium, what happens when, not if, Richt retires after surpassing everything Dooley ever did? More wins. More bowl wins. More SEC Titles. A couple of National Titles. What happens then? The morning show guys on 960 The Ref here in Athens did a survey of college football stadiums and found the hyphenate stadiums pretty much only exist in the SEC. And we’re one of the only ones in the SEC without one. I kind of like that. Naming the athletic complex after Dooley is good, because it honors him as a coach *and as an AD.
The only thing I disagree with is that the statue should be at Sanford Stadium.
Serenity Now.
By Gary
February 14, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this
I agree that naming the sports complex after Dooley is an appropriate gesture. After all, Dooley’s accomplishments as AD with several national championships in non-football sports is an even greater accomplishment than his NC in football. But come on, the statue is about that football championship, not the golf or gymnastics or baseball or tennis, etc championships. Put it where those games were won and everyone saw run, Hershel, run. Sanford stadium. You don’t have to rename the stadium. Just honor the man by putting the statue where he made is mark for 25 years. One day 25 years from now, I hope its joined by another of Mark Richt. Not many schools are blessed with two such outstanding men as head coaches in football.
By Former Dawg
February 14, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this
I don’t know who Bradley is talking about. The Vince Dooley I know is not a great coach, a splendid AD nor a prince of a guy. He was a decent coach, a half-assed AD; and he was no sweetheart. He was petty, vindictive and selfish. Some honors are probably deserved due to his longevity; but, his name absolutely does not belong on or near Sanford Stadium.
By Dooley Field
February 14, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this
Why not Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium? I’m not crazy about hyphenations.
By charles corley
February 14, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this
goooooooooood morning/ vince and barbara are doing AAmco commercials and pay day loans will be next. there are somethings even a rat won’t do.
By DirtyDawg
February 14, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this
Count me as one that believes that Joel Eaves should also be included in the recognition - he was the catalyst that set UGA’s athletics back on track following the Wally Butts/Bear Bryant/Johnnie Griffith fiasco of the early ’60s (thanks a lot Furman, we’ll always remember your role in that).
And for those that don’t know what got into Adams in his obsession to get rid of Vince, do a little research and look for the ‘Dick Bestwick’ letter. It’s the one he wrote to Adams that called a spade a spade - namely that Adams is an ego-maniacal, arrogant, control-freak with a Napoleonic complex that can’t stand to have anyone around that doesn’t kiss is rear end on a daily basis. He was determined to get rid of everybody at the school that had any kind of positive reputation for excellence in anything - especially if he hadn’t appointed them which made them beholden to him alone. He’s a jerk of the first order and will always be such.
You may not like it Bradley, but those of us that believe in earned loyalty and showing appropriate appreciation for all the memories - not the kind that’s bought through intimidation and brow-beating - will always be ‘Vinceniks’ and proud of it…and don’t for a minute that Adams is trying to do anything to ‘placate’ us, or Vince. He just doesn’t care what any of us think - just as we don’t care what you think.
By Another former Dawg
February 14, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
Scrubs will be bitter, I guess.
By old timer
February 14, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this
Adams is wrong and his ego is too big to let him care. He takes their money and perks but doesn’t give a damn about the school or any employee. He would probably make a good modern day CEO at an airline.
By Clay
February 14, 2008 11:24 AM | Link to this
I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moronI am a moron I am a moronI am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron I am a moron
By GW
February 14, 2008 11:40 AM | Link to this
Adams was booed at the Sugar Bowl BEFORE the game during introductions of dignitaries, including Ray Nagin. You mean there will come a time when Adams WILL NOT be the UGA president? Somebody better tell him.
By Sick and Tired
February 14, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this
Please leave the name of Sanford stadium alone. I am a fan of Coach Dooley but the stadium name has been the same since 1929. We have had great coaches and players in the years after its naming. Why change that now? Dooley deserves the honor he is recieving. And make no mistake it is an HONOR to have the athletic complex at a storied university named after you. Leave the name of Sanford Stadium ALONE. Also do a little reading on who its named for. What do you people think it will be named after another fifty or so years Sanford-dooley-Richt-smith-jones-fred stadium. Get a grip on yourselves…Really…..sheeeeesh.
By W
February 14, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this
That statue is fugly and honors no one!!!
By ED IN ELLIJAY ALUM 78
February 14, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this
HOW THE HELL DOES MICHAEL ADAMS STILL REMAIN AS OUR PRESIDENT??? MAYBE WE SHOULD DEMAND A NEW BOARD OF REGENTS, WHO DO NOT HAVE THE BALLS TO FIRE ADAMS!!!!!! I BOO EVERY TIME ADAMS GIVES AWAY THE CROWN TO THE HOMECOMING QUEEN.I HATE THE SOB!!! TREATING DOOLEY THE WAY HE HAS IS SHAMEFUL!!! I DO NOT WANT THIS TO GO AWAY UNTIL ADAMS IS GONE!
By AltamahaDawg
February 14, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this
I belive that President Adams handled the PR about as poorly as a person can, shooting himself in the foot, but this re-writing of history pretty unhealthy. To read some of the comments and even a few of the written accounts in various papers, you would think that Dooley was just cruising along , and all of a sudden Adams unexpectedly fired the man.
Did coach Dooley not previously set a timetable for his own retirement, ask and receive an extention as it got closer to that date, and only when was not granted the “one more year” second extention, when the crap hit the fan? Selfish egotistically need to run the university as he was hired to do aside, wasn’t that the truth?
By Dubya is right
February 14, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this
That statue sure is one cartoonish and ugly statue. It’s hideous.
By mach5dawg
February 14, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this
Sanford Stadium should remain Sanford Stadium. No hyphen. No “Dooley Field.” Long before Dooley they were playing football at UGA, and Sanford got the stadium built.
Also, what happens after Richt supasses Dooley? Does it becomes Sanford-Dooley-Richt Stadium? Or, Richt Turf on Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium?
By UGASlobberknocker
February 14, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
I can remember back in the 1980s when Mark Bradley was the premier writer at the AJC and damned good. WHAT HAPPENNED? He has been clueless for at least a decade now. Mark, stick with KY basketball they could use your sage advice.
As far as Adams/Dooley I think I am pretty typical..a UGA graduate who not only buys season tix every yr with a substantial contribution, but also contributes significantly to the alumni assn. Im not a lunatic fringe fan. But I absolutely abhor Adams. He is an imperious, arrogant, jealous meglamaniac, who dissed the biggest icon we have. How does he expect people to respond? Im surprised the insecure little elf has not called for Larry to retire (after all he is more popular than Mikee) or put UGA VI to sleep (also more popular and looks a lot better). Coach Dooley has more class in his little toe than Adams has ever had. I was at the Sugar Bowl and Adams got what he deserved, probably LESS than he deserved. Dawg fans just absolutely hate him for very good reason and nothing is going to change that. When he leaves, it will be a very happy day in the Bulldog Nation. I think we should commision a statue of Adams, then place it at the equestrian center..in the manure bin. but maybe not..dont want to insult the horse sh#t.
By alum
February 14, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
Adams is not the president of a sports franchise, he’s the president of the school. THE SCHOOL. You know, classes, students, higher education, things tied to “University.”
It doesn’t matter that Adams’ focus is to increase the value of a Georgia degree, the redneck sports fans want Dooley Stadium!
Sorry, this time the baby doesn’t get his bottle.
By AltamahaDawg
February 14, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this
Ed, just how I was taught, but I dont care what sort of grudge I might hold for man I’ve never met, about events that I really don’t know the details…..I would NEVER EVER boo during the Homecoming queens moment of glory. Its her moment, not mine to prove to the world how important I think my feeble opinion is.
And if that were My daughter I can assure you I would search you out and cram a coke down your pipe.
By True Dawg Fan
February 14, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this
GREAT ARTICLE!!! Let me start by saying the alum that continue to “boo” Adams look like true jackasses… put it behind you. Adams has elavated UGA on the academic front and is a big supporter of the athletic programs. My problem with Dooley was that he refused to schedule national non-conference games outside the south. Not to mention 1984 -89 were not memorable years. In fact, UGA football started to take BIG steps back. At least Damnon is agressive in non-conference scheduling (already have my flight booked to Phoenix for the ASU game). This type of scheduling will only help our national exposure. Let’s go ahead and dedicate the Dooley garden or statue. Move forward and stop worrying about the past.
By Homer Scott
February 14, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
Where will the statue of Jan Kemp go? She’s one up (rightfully so) on ole Vince ‘The Tefelon’ Prince. How many ‘under 650 on the SAT’ football players did VD get into school?
By TDone
February 14, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
What about a statue for Jan Kemp? I mean, she made Dooley play by the rules (finally).
By Bob Sacamano
February 14, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this
Hey, alum, the faculty at Georgia hate Adams’ guts for the very same reasons that the football fans do: his humongous ego and his imperious attitude towards the school. He’s like the evil Emperor from those Star Wars flicks. And the students, well, we hate him even more for his ridiculous plus minus system which doesn’t reward you for getting an “A” but punishes the hell out of you for getting what used to be “B’s.” It should really be called the minus system. And he dictated that to us without any input from our impotent Student Council or from the students or faculty (who also hate the plus-minus system).
He’s a class-A control freak jerk. There’s an old saying that if everyone hates your guts, then well, it might just be you.
By CDM2
February 14, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this
Let me see if I get this right.
Former players and fans that want to honor their friend, coach and mentor in a manner in which men of his achievement have been honored historically, should “let it go”.
While the President of a higher institution of learning, should stick with his ”Pride” on the matter.
Hmmmmm, from an outsider, it kind of looks childish on the part of the person who wants to hang on to his prideful decision for pride sake.
Dr. Adams (Ph. D. - Doctor of Philosophy), “Do The Right Thing!” Come on teach us all a lesson in humility.
By ......................BuLLdawg
February 14, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this
BEIRUT, Lebanon - The chief of Hezbollah told throngs of supporters at a funeral for slain commander Imad Mughniyeh his group would retaliate against Israeli targets anywhere in the world after accusing the Jewish state of killing the militant.
Israel ordered its military, embassies and Jewish institutions overseas to go on alert earlier in the day, fearing revenge attacks for the car bomb that killed Mughniyeh Tuesday night in Damascus. The former Hezbollah security chief was one of world’s most wanted fugitives, accused of masterminding attacks that killed hundreds of Americans in Lebanon in the 1980s.
While Hezbollah supporters bid farewell to Mughniyeh, tens of thousands of their pro-Western political opponents filled a downtown Beirut square to mark former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri’s 2005 assassination. The opposing gatherings reflected Lebanon’s divided soul and fearing clashes, authorities deployed thousands of troops. But by early evening, there were no reports of violence.
Hezbollah and its Iranian backers blamed Israel for killing Mughniyeh but Israel denied involvement. In a videotaped eulogy broadcast on a giant screen to thousands attending the south Beirut funeral, Nasrallah said Israel had taken the fight outside the “natural battlefield” of Israel and Lebanon.
“You have crossed the borders,” he said. “With this murder, its timing, location and method — Zionists, if you want this kind of open war, let the whole world listen: Let this war be open.”
Thousands gathered in a hall in the Roueiss neighborhood of Beirut where Mughniyeh’s coffin lay draped in a Hezbollah flag. A band played Lebanon’s national anthem and the guerrilla group’s anthem. Outside in the rain, tens of thousands more stood in silence.
Nasrallah — himself in hiding because of fears of assassination since the 2006 summer war with Israel — warned Israel that its alleged killing of Mughniyeh was a “very big folly” which will be avenged.
By Jay
February 14, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this
This is actually an article befitting Terence Moore and for the first time EVER, I would have actually agreed with Terence, as I do here with Mark. You Vince zealots will NEVER be satisfied. You’re similar to fundamentalists in that you would never be happy until Adams was literally hanging on North Campus and Vince was the new school president. And trust me, we would not want that for our fine academic (yes academic, not football) institution.
By Jacobsky
February 14, 2008 1:19 PM | Link to this
You Dooley lovers sound like a bunch of stupid whiny b1tches. This is a great honor. He’s done much more for the Athletic Dept as a whole than football. This is the right thing, if even. So shut the fvck up already.
By J.Bartlett
February 14, 2008 1:21 PM | Link to this
Vince Dooley’s UGA fame was not due to to his horticultural skills, but rather his excellence as a football coach and AD. As a minimum, it should be “Dooley Field” at Sanford Stadium.
By ESPN Announcer
February 14, 2008 1:22 PM | Link to this
“So what’s going on with Britney?”
By UGA GRADUATE
February 14, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this
8 dollars!!! That thar is a whole ours werk fer me.
By Truth-Tell
February 14, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
Erk Russell and Hershel Walker put Dooley on the map.
By alum
February 14, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Bob S, there are two sides to every story. For academic exercise, make Adams’ arguement. Adams has to serve the board of regents so you better believe there’s a method to his madness. When CMR came on as coach there was a players only meeting complaining that he was too hard on them. CMR proceeded to elevate the football team to new heights, the same way Adams has elevated the university. Toughen up. You will not accomplish anything significant in life if you worry about being laughed at or hated. Adams is stronger standing on his own than the entire redneck sports fan contingent. An “Impeach Bush” bumper sticker has more political impact than the Dooley Stadium set.
By Rev. Dudley Doright
February 14, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
I would recommend a statue of Hershel Walker carrying Vince Dooley piggy-back!
My guess is that would more accurately depict the route to success taken by Vince Dooley.
By Tech FAN
February 14, 2008 2:17 PM | Link to this
HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE HEE
Clay must have been a valedictorian at UGA.
By 59bulldawg
February 14, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
Damn!!!! It’s rough in here today! Like I said on another blog what’s been proposed thus far is a good start. I personally like the name Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium. With that name you’re still playing “Tween the Hedges” and the stadium name is left untouched. I’d even be willing to leave the statue where it is … thereby placating most Dawg fans who want to honor Vince but disagree as to how much and where. Whether anything more happens is in large measure up to Adams. But even if anything more doesn’t happen during the remainder of his tenure … he won’t be president forever. As for whether some of us dishonor Dooley with our zealous efforts on his behalf, well I guess folks can take anything to the extreme. But Mark I suspect if you ever had an opportunity to solicit an opinion on this from Barbara, Deanna, Debbie, Daniel, or Derrick they would probably be less embarrassed by the support than they were at their husband’s/father’s treatment by the university that he so ably served for a significant portion of his life.
By scooter11
February 14, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this
Tech Fan is enjoying a tickle pile right here on our blog. Now THAT’s entertainment.
By MV7
February 14, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this
While your at it rename the Georgia Dome and field to Patrino Field @ Vick-Mora Dome. Seems about as fitting.
By reply to 59bulldawg
February 14, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this
Are you kidding me? I do not care what the Dooley family thinks of their father/husband’s treatment. UGA is larger than the Dooley family. Let’s ask the Dooley family about Vince’s loyalty when he flirted with Auburn weeks before the 1981 Sugar Bowl. Take away Walker (once in lifetime player) and he had three SEC rings in 25 years. The point is… let’s keep it in perspective. Walker and Erk were more instrumental.
By observer
February 14, 2008 3:31 PM | Link to this
OK.
It’s only a game, at a university. Not a university, at a game.
A university is run by a president the president’s priorities should not favor football; however, at UGA that seems illogical? When the president thought that sports could continue on with their success with a new AD, he took that action. And look you’re still good at football. Yeeeaaaaah!
A great coach should be honored and the president wants to honor him. Done. Let this stuff go dawg fans. There are bigger issues to worry about in life.
By Ken
February 14, 2008 3:34 PM | Link to this
Herschel won the 1980 NC and the SEc from 1980 thru 1982. Without Herschel, Dooley would have won only 3 SEC crowns in 25 years. That’s an average coach at best. As AD, Dooley hired Goff and Donnan. He obviosly wasn’t looking for a coach who would post abetter record than he did. AS AD, he wanted to give Donnan one more year to see if he made “substantial improvement”. Without Adam’s interference, we might not have Richt as coach today. As an alumnus of UGA (BBA & MBA), I would like to see the stadium name left as is, with no changes whatever.
By Bryan G
February 14, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
lol…I love the “how good would he be without Herschel” people.
Well, how about Spurrier without Wuerffel (sp?)? How about Carroll without Leinart? How about Beamer without Vick? How about Ole Miss without Archie?
I mean, you can do that with almost any coach or school except FSU or Penn State. Come on people, that’s ridiculous.
Dooley recruited Herschel Walker and got him to play. Yes, that was by far his most successful stretch. The fact is that he still did win a NC and 6 SECs and 201 games.
Was Dooley one of the best coaches of all-time? No. But he’s certainly one of the 2-5 best SEC coaches ever when you consider his entire record. The others (Neyland, Bryant, Jordan, etc.) have their names where they belong.
It’s time we put Dooley’s where his name belongs. On a house that he built.
By Boots
February 14, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this
Since the remains of Louis Grizzard are spread on the 50 yard line, at least that’s what I’ve been told, then the stadium should be named the Louis Grizzard Memorial Resting Grounds at Sanford Stadium.
At least, the Grizzard family should be consulted before you go and rename his resting site or attach another name to it.
By alum
February 14, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
Some facts on Georgia financials (for those who think Adams is somehow running the school into the ground):
Georgia received $96.9 million in donations last year (a 24 percent increase over 2006’s total of $77.8 million).
Gifts and pledges for athletic purposes totaled $36.5 million (of which $25.5 million was for seating priority).
So if you think those 34 cent donations keep Adams up at night, you also think Georgia did not make Dooley rich.
By Frank Lane
February 14, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this
Mark, I hope you read this and have someone do the research. I am pretty sure that if one looks at Dooley’s cumulative recored as a head coach both before and after Irk Russell as an assistant, that he did better with Irk than without him.
If one also looks at Irk Russell’s record with and without Dooley, I am pretty sure Irk did even better without Dooley than he did with him, even in you included Irk’s record at Grady high school when he was only 27.
If this analysis bears out, it would suggest that Irk Russell was the genius coach, not Vince Dooley. Please check this out.
Frank Lane
By wes
February 14, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this
This “prince of a guy” you speak of hired Jim Harrick.
Dooley is a loser.
By KingGator
February 14, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
I’m no UGA fan, but Vince Dooley deserved alot more respect than was bestowed upon him by the former pres. of the school. Keep in mind, UGA has one of the premier athletic programs it has mainly because of Vince Dooley. You, Mr. Adams, are just enjoying the spoils, and collecting your big fat check.
KG
By bob sackoshitto
February 14, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
Da I qoute Seinfeld I’m so clever master of my domain yadda yadda yadda your so good looking soup natzi can u spare a square
By greekdawg
February 14, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this
alum- It’s embarassing when a UGA alum shows his butt, but you just did. I don’t know when you went to UGA, but I remember one deck, people sitting on the grass shoulders, the bridge and RR tracks. Now look at what we have and make a point when you get your head out of your butt to check who the FB coach and Athletic Director was during those years. We made VD rich? Try the other was around. SHUT UP!
By mr. nice
February 14, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this
Without #34 Walker and Erk Russel, Vince Dooley would not have been even a mediocre coach.
By mr. nice
February 14, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this
Without #34 Walker and Erk Russel, Vince Dooley would not have been even a mediocre coach.
By Phil
February 14, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this
If I were Vince Dooley, I’d want that statue as far away from the stadium as possible.
It looks absolutely ridiculous.
By Bob Sacamano
February 14, 2008 5:37 PM | Link to this
Alum,
You conveniently forget about Adams’ misappropriations of funds. The six-figure salary for the job his wife performed that was about as honest a job as that Bomar kid, you remember, the QB from Oklahoma? Or about the Costa Rica resort he had built for “students” to use for study abroad, but was used mostly by high money boosters.
Adams could give two craps about academic performance. He’s a slimy, two-timing politician who uses the Campus rent-a-cops as his personal gestapo, who continues to disregard any and all complaints about his “leadership” from faculty and students, who implements policy on his own whim and without input from others, except maybe his yes-men cronies on the Board of Regents, and who puts money matters before students and their rights and issues. In fact, he frequently has no problem with stepping all over the students. If you wanna involve students in the sports argument, how is it that UGA has the second-largest stadium in the SEC and has something like the 9th smallest student allotment of tickets for football games? Please explain that to me, alum. How is it that you can’t squeeze in about 25,000 students into a 93,000 seat stadium? I personally don’t believe that’s asking too much, but Michael Slimey Adams apparently thinks so.
This goes well above and beyond football, alum. Michael Adams is hated for many reasons beyond the petty rivalry he had with Dooley. And he’s brought everything on himself. He’s as bad as Rumsfeld was. We could have this thing in Iraq almost over if Rumsfeld had just listened to his damn generals in the first place, listen to the guys who actually know what they’re talking about. But no, his massive ego had to be fed, so we did things his way, and now, a war which should be winding down needed a Surge last year that was five years too late to get to the point where we have real progress in the region. Unfortunately, if a cut and run guy like Obama gets elected, the Surge would have been for not. And it was all avoidable if the moron SecDef had just listened.
Kind of like Michael Adams. If he didn’t need constant glorification of his massive ego on a daily basis and actually listened to others, specifically students and faculty when they want to voice criticism, he would not be the hated man he is today. He would be a beloved president. Instead, he is persona non grata by everyone but, well, you I guess. It didn’t have to be this way, but it is. He brought all of this negativity on himself because he refuses to believe he isn’t the smartest man in the room, or he didn’t want smart guys whom he didn’t hire voicing credible opinions. He wants to be surrounded by his yes men and his back slappers, and that is that.
You need to step out a bit, alum, and open your damn eyes. Let the truth filter in a bit. This is so far beyond a stupid statue and garden it’s not funny. It’s just damn sad. And it didn’t have to be this way.
By jim
February 14, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
Adams is a schmuck. Put the statue outside th e stadium where it belongs. Put another one in the garden
By Dick
February 14, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this
Dooley doesn’t deserve anything. He worked for a pay check and may I add a darn good one at that.
By TDOG
February 14, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this
We don’t need any more Dooley stuff reminding us of the past and his one year wonder. What I remember is lots of controversy with students getting free passes and teachers getting shafted because Dolley was the man. Let the past be. Give the man his due in the annals and lets try to get some lasting history going with the man we have now. If they put a statue up for Dooley will Richt put a black jersey on it to stir up the gang he is assembling?
By AltamahaDawg
February 14, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this
Bob, I’m sure you are a hoot at the local county zoning meetings.
By Bob Sacamano
February 14, 2008 7:29 PM | Link to this
AltamahaDog, I’ve never been to a county zoning meeting. I don’t think it’d be my cup of tea. And since I’ve never been, what you said is a little lost on me. Don’t know whether it was a complement or a scathing burn, so I don’t know how to properly respond, whether with a thank you or a smart-a* comment. So… sorry?
By T-bone
February 14, 2008 7:38 PM | Link to this
For those of you that say…”let it go”, or….”this will blow over in time”….forget it. This is a bigger fight than the the war between the Yankees and the Americans in the 1860’s. The Bible says pride goeth before the fall….and brother, Adams ain’t gonna make it here. He might as well wear a Gator shirt and Tech nerd cap, cause, dang it, he ain’t one of us. Perhaps Adams’ thrice poor judgment is not worthy of the current state of unmerciful criticism and permanent “hanging in effigy”…..on second thought, hell yes it is.
By Floyd
February 14, 2008 7:56 PM | Link to this
I shore do hate to say this hear, butt even Auburn has got more sense in how to handle footbawl heros than usens. They know how to name there stadiiium and footbawl field. Makes me wish I had gone to Auburn to get my edukation youall hear me. Adams aint noting but embarrest our state.Dooley was one of the greatest coachesin the SEC! I shore am glad he got us a good caoch fore he got fired. I jest got one word to say to Adams boooooooo.
By bob bender
February 14, 2008 8:19 PM | Link to this
problemm with all this is that you can’t possibly fit all the egos involved inside the stadium, much less name the stadium after them. ihave no doubt that all of this is a classic tale of the presidents office resenting the athletic department being able to tell the presidents office who’s boss. happens all the time. a little humility goes a long way. but i get the feeling that there isn’t too much of that in a place where most fans go to the game drunk and then collectively shoot birds at the opposing fans. georgia deserves all the trouble that comes its way. in fact, i appreciate adams to some degree for putting the arrogant fans in their place.
By Bob Sacamano
February 14, 2008 8:31 PM | Link to this
Hey, T-bone… you’re a moron. Yankees and Americans? Seems as if someone lives in a personal fantasy land. I suggest you take this to heart… the southern states lost their rebellion. They did. It isn’t halftime. They’re not readying the next offensive. It’s over. Done. And the US is a better, stronger country for it. I can just about guarantee that the world is much better as well. Think about all of the horrors that wouldn’t have been stopped if not for a strong United States. Nazi Germany, anyone?
Also, I know people in the South usually have to be pulled kicking and screaming into the present, being the last people in the world to hold on to slavery, being the next to last people in the world to hold on to the kind of apartheid known as separate but equal Jim Crow b.s., so T-bone, I suggest you read a few history books by someone a lot smarter than you (someone with at least an 8th grade education will do) and join us in the present. Guess what? Glorious Dixie wasn’t quite a glorious as you think it was. And not just for the slaves, but for the vast majority of poor, white farmers as well. There was definitely a kind of aristocracy in the antebellum South only seen in Europe. Yes, in the North, there was economic inequality as well, but there was soon to be an emerging middle class that would never have existed in the South. So, hypothetically, lets say the South won their rebellion to keep their slave-based economy intact without interference, what logically would have happened through the years? Well, logically, as the disenfranchised would have grown and the aristocracy become more isolated, along with the fractured confederate government (which failed in the U.S. after the American Revolution, where the states were more powerful than the central government, which is why we have a Constitution, not Articles of Confederation) which would have no real power to govern or national military, socialism or communism would be embraced by the poor, white, illiterate farmers in the South who would then turn to the slaves as their natural allies against the aristocracy. In the end, the result would have been a socialist / communist uprising and blood bath that would have made Russia’s October Revolution or the French Revolution look like a dainty tea party.
Don’t try and spread your ignorance on a blog monitored by a history major, T-bone. You’ll lose every time. Have fun at your next Klan rally, idiot.
By uga95
February 14, 2008 8:35 PM | Link to this
I’ve said it before…Sanford-Walker stadium is the only hyphenated name I would ever accept!! Otherwise, leave it alone!! Herschel is the one that took us dawg fans to the promised land!!
By alum
February 14, 2008 8:48 PM | Link to this
Greekdawg. You remember the old days and look what we have today. One hundred percent right. So you’re saying since Dooley was the figurehead during that time he should be lauded. By that rationale, Adams has presided over the most lucrative and academically successful time in UGA history. Bring out the statue.
After Herschel, there was nothing. Dooley was coach and AD for the 20 years Georgia football was dormant. He wanted to keep Donnan.
I don’t even like Adams. But I’d just as soon vote Clinton be added to Mount Rushmore than add any name to anything. Some thing are best left alone.
By art
February 14, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Who gives a s—t if Dooley is remembered? Most people in Georgia could not care less about that jerk coach or the equally obnoxious Michael Adams. In fact, no self-respecting college graduate from a reputable institution (Duke ‘77; Duke Med ‘81) wants their tax money squandered on a statue to a LIVING person. Let the jerk croak, then name a street after him. Don’t waste taxpayers’ money “remembering” some fool whose only legacy is a bunch of dumb jocks and one championship. Maybe we should remember the Jan Kemp controversy of the 1980s?
By T-bone
February 14, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Oh brother…I’m on a sports blog and get a history lesson from a dude who was probably on the debate team at Dartmouth (and couldn’t throw a frisbee 12 feet). By way of clarification, you have me correctly pegged as a redneck (its a badge of honor, pal), but I’m not into the Klan or their (now history tainted) beliefs. I enjoy and respect all races. But with all due repect, you could use a good dose of Lewis Grizzard reading, and I’d bet the farm you didn’t grow up within 800 miles of Georgia (God’s country). Regardless, thanks for your inpu and I enjoyed the interchange.
By T-bone
February 14, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this
Oh brother…I’m on a sports blog and get a history lesson from a dude who was probably on the debate team at Dartmouth (and couldn’t throw a frisbee 12 feet). By way of clarification, you have me correctly pegged as a redneck (its a badge of honor, pal), but I’m not into the Klan or their (now history tainted) beliefs. I enjoy and respect all races. But with all due repect, you could use a good dose of Lewis Grizzard reading, and I’d bet the farm you didn’t grow up within 800 miles of Georgia (God’s country). Regardless, thanks for your input and I enjoyed the interchange.
By art
February 14, 2008 9:07 PM | Link to this
Let’s put a statue of Dooley in front of Sanford Stadium bending over to kiss the A— of a statue of Jan Kemp, a woman who tried to make education the priority at UGA, not sports. That’s something the taxpayers SHOULD be proud of.
By bullcrappie
February 14, 2008 9:12 PM | Link to this
1 national title in how many years…
hey just repaint you sign from 1980
…We beat Hawaii and should be #1 my #$%…
but could not beat UT
LOL
By Bob Sacamano
February 14, 2008 9:22 PM | Link to this
Nope. I didn’t call you a redneck, T-bone. I have many a redneck friend, and none of them have your, well, delusional world view. So, I’m sorry for the Klan crack, it was a little rude. I’m always happy to impart a history lesson, even of the “if” variety, which is always sketchy because “if” never happened, what happened happened. But if you study history you notice the patterns it follows and its cyclical nature. The South should be happy as hell it lose its rebellion. What would have been waiting in its future would have been very scary. And Red. And I grew up right here. Well, not here in Athens, but I’ve lived all the life I remember somewhere in Georgia. A few somewheres. As for Lewis Grizzard, I’m well-read of his verse. But unlike you, I realize that Lewis Grizzard, God rest his soul, was a master satirist. As in satire. I’m guessing you take his work far much more literally.
By alum
February 14, 2008 9:30 PM | Link to this
Bob S. Adams is excelling at the job he was given to do. Raise Georgia’s academic and financial standing. If he steps on some toes and greases some wheels, so be it. He’s the CEO and that’s how business is done. I don’t even like the guy myself, but I’m glad we have him working for us.
Sorry about the student tickets, but that’s just supply and demand. See Duke hoops and Penn St football. The team’s winning and everybody wants a piece. When I was in school (and VD was AD) you could have fit the entire student body in the empty seats at Sanford on gameday.
By Florida Dawg
February 14, 2008 9:37 PM | Link to this
I’ve been following UGA football for 40 years and i actually don’t know what Sanford did. Can anyone tell me? Not trying to be a smart a*, I just don’t know.
By T-bone
February 14, 2008 9:54 PM | Link to this
Bobby S, (can’t say I’ve heard of any Sacamanos around here…I’ll stick to my initial bet that you were born within 200 miles of the Canadian border),
Anyway, we’ve gotten off the subject, which is that Michael Adams is on the way out. He’s bright, well educated, a proven fund-raiser and, though I to admit it, he has a history of hiring well (the Harrick debacle was way overstated…$300??, puh-leaze….and he could outcoach Felton or Tubby blindfolded). However, no quantity of “good attributes” outweigh an ego and self-serving appetite like Adams has. He has brought on himself his forever severed relations with the Dawg Nation. Prez, start the healing process…pack it in. Go back to Centre College and try to regain some respect….from somebody….anybody.
By art
February 14, 2008 9:57 PM | Link to this
Name the stadium after JAN KEMP. Dooley just abused the system and graduated a bunch of buffoons who couldn’t read or write. It was JAN KEMP who set UGA on the right path. Immortalize her, not this s———d Dooley.
By The Wizard
February 14, 2008 10:12 PM | Link to this
Let the current honor for VJD stand. Add Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium when we get a new President. Go ahead and bronze Adams now and put his “statue” outside the University’s garbage depot.
By Mr. Contrast
February 14, 2008 10:22 PM | Link to this
It’s GREAT being a Georgia Bulldog. We’re hacked about Adams whereas Teck fans are hacked about their worthless football program. I say let’s keep both of these “problems” going ad infinitum!!!!!! (means forever, Einsteins)
By You can't take HW out
February 14, 2008 10:24 PM | Link to this
Morons, H. Walker did exist at GA for 3 yrs. You can’t say “Take out HW & he was——”. HW was there. That is like saying ” Take our R.Ball & he was——”. Yes, Ball was at Tech for 4 yrs. also. Both of these Guys will always be a part of history. You can’t change it, it happened.
By art
February 14, 2008 10:30 PM | Link to this
Let the taxpayers of Georgia have the final say on this issue. The fact that over $1 million is being spent on this idiot coach jsut to placate some equally idiotic UGA fans makes this the taxpayers’ business.
By FLA DAWG
February 14, 2008 10:47 PM | Link to this
Mr. Bradley,
The contradictions in your “journalism” are so numerous it’s hard to know where to begin.
“Even when Georgia tries to do right…, it’s wrong” - We “Zealots” would like Dooley’s name added to the stadium and the statue placed in the stadium. It is ADAMS who has nixed that - NOT GEORGIA!
We “Zealots” have created a “cause” where none exists!? May I remind you he was forced to retire ONE YEAR early. How can any fair-minded person go along with that insult after everything this man has done for UGA?
According to you we should be “warm and fuzzy” because Adams has given Dooley a backhanded tribute?
You’re on record as saying you’d like to see the stadium named Sanford - Dooley but you cringe when you think of his “forces” conjuring up some form of pique. By all means Mark, say what you feel but don’t be man enough to fight for it. Your statement is one of cowardice.
The president, see, retains a certain amount of pride. What!? He retains pride by insulting a man who is regarded as one of the best coaches in SEC history!?
The stadium will eventually be named after him - So, yeah - let’s just wait until the man is DEAD and THEN name it after him - right?
The response Dooley gave Towers was one from a class act man who is trying to make the best of an embarrassing situation. But hey Mark, don’t analyze this point - it might go against whatever dumb point(s) you’re attempting to make.
I guess I’m a Vincenik because I’d like to see Dooley have his name attached to the stadium and the statue placed there - it’s better than hiding behind a laptop and trying to have it both ways like a coward. Your piece exudes conflicting statements and sideline journalism (at best). You should be ashamed.
By Chuck
February 14, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this
Adams has brought credibility to Georgia with academic standards that were low before he arrived. Add that to the luster of Dooley’s work and Mark Richt and you guys have prosperity.
None the less, the more you football fanatics squeak, the more the school looks like a football factory. And I bet Vince Dooley would expect some class from his supporters.
By Chuck
February 14, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this
Adams has brought credibility to Georgia with academic standards that were low before he arrived. Add that to the luster of Dooley’s work and Mark Richt and you guys have prosperity.
Nonetheless, the more you football fanatics squeak, the more the school looks like a football factory rather than a university of higher learning. I bet Vince Dooley would expect some class from his supporters.
You folks act like Vince Dooley was Coach Bud Wilkinson or Coach Bryant. If not for Herschel’s three years, The Dooley record looks average compared to your own Mark Richt.
By allenlaw
February 14, 2008 11:29 PM | Link to this
I also think many of us older guys forget that long after Dooley’s coaching days were over, his major contribution to UGA was his astonishing performance as AD. It was Dooley behind national titles in “minor” sports and it was the money from his programs that funded so much of the athletic life of the University. Honoring him by naming an athletic center after him recognizes more than just his coaching, it recognizes his leadership and service to the student body and the University.
He quit coaching 20 years ago, but never quit serving. Let’s honor the whole man and all his work, not just coaching.
By art
February 14, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this
Allenlaw:
Dooley also served during the time of Jan Kemp, a teacher who exposed the damnable underbelly of UGA sports which Dooley cultivated. During his tenure as coach, UGA had one of the worst records of graduation among its football players in addition to having some of the stupidest in the SEC. It was a culture for which Dooley himself was responsible. He should have been railroaded out of UGA with Fred Davison and others. It was because of a league of blind faithful that he kept his sorry job and was even “promoted”. His legacy is damnable. Take your hero-worship somewhere else.
By Gen Neyland
February 14, 2008 11:57 PM | Link to this
My Dad fought in the European and Pacific theaters in WWII…They won’t rename an ocean for him but he’s still my hero…Dooley will be remembered. His accomplishments will not go unrewarded in the days yet to come. As I said before, Time Loves A Hero (The Feat) and time is on the side of Dooley, not Adams…Then comes the Richt era….
By Charlie
February 15, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this
Vince Dooley’s record was 2-4 against the best coach in the SEC(Bryant). Let’s look at those numbers.
1964 he losses to a great Alabama team lead by Joe Namath 3-31 (which won the NC). This is Coach Dooley’s first game as a head coach.
In Dooley’s second year he pulls off the upset of his career in Athens against Bama with a dramatic flea-flicker pass to win 18-17. The 1965 Alabama team went on to win another NC that year. But Dooley’s team had the lone mark against their record.
Dooley’s 1972 team lost to Bama 7-25. Bama was ranked #3 in the country when they played and ended up #7 nationally for 1972.
In 1973 Dooley lost to Bryant’s team 14-28 in Tuscaloosa. Bryant’s Crimson Tide would go undefeated until losing 23-24 to Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl. Losing by only 14pts one of Bryant’s best teams was an accomplishment.
Bama came into Athens in 1976 and took one of the worst beatings in Bryant’s SEC career. Dooley’s team dominated the line of scrimmage in the game. The Bama QB (Rutledge), was hounded most of the game and only passed for 76 yards.
In Dooley’s final game against Bryant’s Crimson Tide he lost a hard fought game 10-18 in Tuscaloosa. Bama finished 2nd in the AP & UPI.
If you take away Dooley’s first year (1964), he gave Bryant’s teams a handful even if his record was 2-4. And those two wins were outstanding wins. Vince Dooley has always represented himself with class while competing like a Bulldog.
Just my view.(from a longtime Bama supporter)
By fayncDAWG
February 15, 2008 5:58 AM | Link to this
This needes to be put to rest RIGHT NOW! I sort of lean to being pro-Dooley and anti-Adams. But such as it may be, the Dawgs have an exceptionally good football program and tradition. Let’s not create negativity with this issue which will likely result in this fall’s team underachieving. I say again, let this issue linger and this championship caliber team will have a 9-3 record.
By vandylawdawg
February 15, 2008 6:57 AM | Link to this
If you are going to rename the stadium, I think the name should be Sanford-Walker stadium because herschel did more to create Dooley’s golden era than anything Dooley did himself.
By Dawgoneit
February 15, 2008 7:41 AM | Link to this
“I just want a University that the football team can be proud of.” Paul Bryant
By Clay
February 15, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this
Don’t blame me for the AJC’s technical difficulties. I posted once. The AJC duplicated it. Their techs must be from the North Avenue School.
By NJ Dawg
February 15, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this
Has it occurred to anybody here that Adams has a university to run??? No offense, but there’s a lot more to UGA than the football team; some people go there for (gasp!) an education, and while he’s no Chuck Schultz, Adams has done a fine job. Everybody calling for Adams’ head over the Dooley fiasco either didn’t attend the UNIVERSITY in the first place or didn’t get much of an education, given how misplaced their priorities are.
By beachdog
February 15, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this
Leave it Sanford Stadium.
As good as Dooley was, the current head coach is ten times better.
beachdog
By Chris Jackson
February 15, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
Screw Vince Dooley hewas never the coach Pepper Rodgers was Rodgers made that b*******
By LSUfan
February 15, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
leave the stadium named as it is…Dooley is the reason Georgia has played catch-up in the SEC for years. If he were the coach today, with his historical record, would you be wanting to re-name Sanford after him? Hell no, he’d be gone!!!
By daledog
February 15, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this
Where is Richt’s name going to go? Honestly. He’ll probably put 15-20 years service in as HC, then where does his name go? Set the precedent now to leave the stadium and field alone.
Do Notre Dame or Michigan even entertain this renaming crap?
By Josh Tucker
February 15, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this
My name is Josh Tucker. I attended the IU/Wisconsin game last night and I wore a Bring Back Bobby shirt that I was asked to remove on 2 different occasions. I was told that it was very offensive, never being told who it was offensive too. I actually know it was offensive to Mr. Greenspan because the second time I put it back on I saw him gesture to the security guard and then he came over and told me to remove the shirt. I was told during a 10 minute conversation that I was going to be arrested for wearing a shirt that simply said Bring Back Bobby.
Now here is my point, they handled my situation about as bad as they have handled the whole Greenspan/Sampson era at IU. I’m a life long Hoosier fan and love coach Knight. My very good friend Sherron Wilkerson played for him. I thought it was time for him to go when he was fired. I think now it is time to bring him back, as the AD. The regime we have now has 0 respect for Indiana University. If they did they would step down. Please help put the power of the press to great use and help restore IU basketball. My phone number is 502-819-9100 if you would like some quotes or if you have any information you could provide. I will be at the Michigan St game with my shirt on and will not remove it this time.
Kindest regards,
By UGARLM3
February 15, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this
You Dooley people are ridiculous. You honestly think the old ball coach is the reason Georgia is no longer a party school? Give me a break. He was a football coach and an AD. He was a great coach and a mediocre AD (Jirsa?) If you people had your way, we would still have Donnan because that is who Dooley wanted. What we got out of losing Dooley was gaining Richt. I wouldn’t back out of that deal for anything. Thank you President Adams.
By gdog
February 15, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this
Nobody cares about Indiana basketball.
By doggonegadawg
February 15, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
Even if you believe, as I do, that Coach Dooley squandered at least two possibly three opportunities for additional national championships, all this latter-day Dooley bashing is totally unjustified. One need only look at the overall accoplishments of all the athletic teams during his tenure and UGA was easily top five in the nation. All these snot-nosed, still wet behind the ears Johnny-come-latelys aparently have no clue as to what state the football program was in before his arrival. If the decision is to eventully call it Sanford-Dooley Stadium, I would have no problem whatsoever. Thank you, Vince Dooley!
By KyKy
February 15, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
Dooley disrespected himself and his legacy the minute he started hawking products for sale…
By uga1989
February 15, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this
Never mind that Georgia was hit with six major infractions cases during Dooley’s 25-year tenure, or that the Dooley had previously agreed to the retirement date this whole uproar began with.
Seeing as Vince ran for Senate (while he was still coach) I think he was simply politically outmanuvered. If he had scratched Adams’ back and squelched that retirement dustup in 03 he may very well have been getting his own back scratched by the school president today.
By Former Dawg
February 15, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
If you really are “Another Former Dawg, then you will know that no scrub ever got to know Dooley at all, much less well enough to know about him. Regrettably, I got to Dooley plenty well; and, I was not impressed.
By daledog
February 15, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this
Kind of like the state of Georgia football when Richt arrived?
By daledog
February 15, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
Georgia hadn’t won the SEC in 5 years before Dooley took over.
By Fergit H!
February 15, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this
Mark Bradley surely must be frustrated that staffing changes, honors, etc. at UGA don’t turn out to please him - former Lexington Herald hack that he is.
By Chris
February 15, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this
If they’re going to name the stadium after anyone, it should be Herschel Walker. He saved Vince’s job.
By Ramblin Wrecker
February 15, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this
I personally don’t like Pres. Adams all that much. He seems like a power monger, a guy who loves the sound of his own voice and all that. I think Vince Dooley had done enough for UGA athletics that he earned the right to leave at his own discretion. So the 2003 debacle was a power play by Adams in my opinion.
But that said, I can see this from multiple sides. Since when did our society start naming places after people who haven’t passed away yet? I mean, Dooley is still here and can speak for himself, so why does he need a facility named after him to honor his memory, when he aint gone yet? So to me, this discussion is all a bit premature. I heard some comparison to the renaming of Hartsfield Airport to honor Maynard Jackson (who did a great deal to help make it the busiest airport in the US). But that didn’t happen until Jackson died. I think that is how it should be.
But on the other hand, if anything is going to be named after Vince Dooley, I think it wouldn’t be that big a deal to name the stadium after him. After all, Sanford is not likely a name recognized by most UGA fans anyways. His involvement in fund raising for the original stadium is what gained him that honor, but he did nothing on the field itself to contribute to UGA football legend. So if he had to share a nameplate, I don’t think it would be a tremendous disservice to the English professor.
In reality what they should do is sell the naming rights to Coca-Cola so they can have another $50 million dollars to go recruit some more Clarke County community service workers.
“Who let the dawgs out?” Clarke Co. sheriff, that’s who.
By J
February 15, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this
While Adams does leave a lot to be desired in terms of interpersonal relationship abilities, all of this hyperventilating by UGA fans does nothing to help the school. After all, the U does stand for “university”, which is defined as: “An institution for higher learning with teaching and research facilities constituting a graduate school and professional schools that award master’s degrees and doctorates and an undergraduate division that awards bachelor’s degrees.” You’ll notice football isn’t mentioned in there anywhere.
Don’t get me wrong - I love college football and basketball. Especially the latter. But I don’t put my alma mater’s NCAA basketball championship on my resume; I list the education I got there. Sports are fun and games and a pleasant diversion (or should be those things, anyway), but education is vitally important in this life. UGA fans should try, for once, to not lose sight of that.
By Brenda
February 15, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this
I’m happy to see that they’re at least acknowledging Coach Dooley’s accomplishments in some way. I, too, would have preferred to see the stadium include his name. Perhaps having the whole athletic complex named for him is a nicer honor; who knows? The problem I have is the amount of $ they’re spending on the statue. Couldn’t that be put to better use????
By austindog
February 15, 2008 2:21 PM | Link to this
It has nothing to do with my opinion on the merit of Dooley or Adams, I just don’t want name of the stadium or the field changed.
By newteamgear.com
February 15, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this
At least there is something to talk about besides the falcons
By AltamahaDawg
February 15, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this
Austindog, what’s your problem? Either get in with the Adams hatefest to the degree it spoils Dooley’s fine honor, or trash the coach and let the president completely ruin the university with this obvious attempt of compeltely ridiculing him.
Please pick a counterproductive side and go with it.
By Workinlkeadawg
February 15, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this
TO Nate—You don’t even know. Wher’d you say your from again?
By Paula
February 15, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Don’t change the name of the stadium.
Mr. Adams, Jim Harrick is on the phone.
By AltamahaDawg
February 15, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
“sanford is not likely a name recognized by most UGA fans anyway”???? Just the 100,000 or so that have read, studied, prabably have the DVD that details the story of Dr. Sanford building the place.
By AltamahaDawg
February 15, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this
Hey ,you know where there is some really good info on Dr. Sanford, and the stadium, and all things UGA football history??? Down at the ol’ Butts-Mehre Heritage Hall. That’s an interesting name isnt it? 2 favorite football coaches as I understand it. You know that would make a great place to honor other coaches as well.
(I heard that Fred Davidson was just trying to stab Wally Butts in the back by only naming the trophy building after him?) Or was Vince Dooley behind all that? Hmm Interesting.
By AltamahaDawg
February 15, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this
This is a slap in the face?
“Nowhere can you find a better college football facilty than Butts-Mehre Heritage Hall, an 85,000 square foot complex which serves as the every day home of the Georgia Bulldogs. Named after two of Georgia’s most famous football coaches, Wallace Butts and Harry Mehre, and completed in 1987 at a cost of more than $12 million, this facility is unsurpassed anywhere in the United States.”
“It also houses the Larry Munson Trophy Room, a display featuring awards and trophies Georgia football has gathered through the years. “
“the area serves as the Georgia Bulldog Hall of Fame.”
“Probably the most exciting aspect to the average fan is this space. Here, in the rotunda under the domed roof, are many exhibits and memorabilia tracing the long and proud heritage of all Georgia’s athletic programs. In addition, recently upgraded touch-screen displays containing video highlights of Georgia’s football history offer the chance to relive great Bulldog moments.”
“As home to Georgia’s athletic offices, Butts-Mehre Heritage Hall stands as a monument to the longstanding Georgia Bulldog Athletic Tradition.”
By Less Concerned Jacket
February 15, 2008 9:58 PM | Link to this
Like Bobby Dodd at Georgia Tech, I’m not sure any one human being in the history of Georgia Football meant more to the program than Vince Dooley.
Dooley did for UGA what Dodd did for Tech, but he did it in what’s commonly referred to as the modern era. Flip the coaches and eras and the state of Georgia might be different today.
After years of Tech dominance, Dooley reestablished standards and cemented the proliferation of the State’s dominant school. Today, it is obvious that Dooley’s achievements are well received in the state of Georgia. Attendance and graduation aside, UGA is clearly the school of choice relevant to Football supremacy among the basic and content lesser educated individuals of the state.
You do not find such allegiance in other states, but then again Auburn, Miss. St., and others continued to compete in the late 70’s and 80’s. Georgia Tech did not, almost deciding to discontinue their program before the hire of Homer Rice. Tech’s rebounded nicely, but it will take many years if not lifetimes to reverse what Dooley meant to UGA and the state of Georgia.
Decision makers at UGA would be lacking reasonable thought if they failed to make Sanford Stadium, Dooley Field. I’m a Tech Man, but even I recognize greatness and what Vince Dooley did and continues to do for UGA.
DO THE RIGHT THING PEOPLE!!!!