ajcsportstalk

By NICK

September 8, 2006 11:32 AM | Link to this

Without a doubt one of the very best on and off the field. Thoughts and prayers to his family.

By Ben

September 8, 2006 11:34 AM | Link to this

Damn good Dawg, damn great Eagle.

By GW

September 8, 2006 11:35 AM | Link to this

It is ashamed Coach Russell never earned the big $$$$ in coaching. There are those that can’t hold his bucket in coaching that have gotten rich standing on the sideline. Erk was the best motivator of all time.

By Eric

September 8, 2006 11:36 AM | Link to this

As an Appalachian State fan…before I knew what I-AA football was…he was I-AA football. He helped defined the division, and the program that plays on the banks of “Beautiful Eagle Creek”.

Only a handful of men have first names that are synonymous with a particular College Football Program…Bear, Knute, Woody…Erk…

By NORWOOD

September 8, 2006 11:37 AM | Link to this

A great man, not only as a coach but a teacher about life. We will hold his family close to our hearts and keep them in our prayers.

By LC

September 8, 2006 11:38 AM | Link to this

I grew up watching the Eagles and ‘Big Bad Erk’. He will be greatly missed.

By Deborah Adams

September 8, 2006 11:40 AM | Link to this

He was to football in Georgia what Bear Bryant was to Alabama. He will be sorely missed. He will always have a place in this Eagle fan’s heart.

By Bald is Beautiful

September 8, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this

Simply put, Erk was the best college football coach to ever wear a headset in this state.

What he accomplished at Georgia Southern was nothing short of miraculous.

In a way, it’s too bad one of the so-called “major college” powerhouses didn’t hire Erk, because then the entire country could have witnessed his coaching genius.

As it is, Eagle and Bulldog fans can testify to Erk’s greatness. His legacy is the building of a Georgia Southern program that is one of the most successful in the country at any level.

Erk was a man, he was a legend, and he will be sorely missed.

By joe t

September 8, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this

As a Georgia Southern alumni, i can only state that we have lost a “legend”. Coach Russell was a “mans’ man” who was the ultimate motivator. If you ever saw Coach Russell on campus he always had time to chat with you whether you were one of his players or not. Being a student there during the “Hambone” days, I was fortunate enough to see him at his best in the twilight of his career. Well miss you Coach!! Thanks for everything!

By Mark McClellan

September 8, 2006 11:42 AM | Link to this

By Mark Kelly, Jasper, TN

September 8, 2006 11:42 AM | Link to this

This is a tremendous loss for everyone associated with college athletics. Erk Russell will always remain one of the most outstanding coaches and outstanding people to ever coach in Georgia.

Like so many people who have followed Georgia and Georgia Southern football through the years, I am heart-broken. I am especially upset because Brian Van Gorder went to such lengths to reconnect Erk with the Georgia Southern program after the rift with Mike Sewak.

I could write more, but the last visual image I have of Erk is of him giving a defensive lineman a thumbs up after Georgia Southen beat UMass in a playoff game. The kid just lit up with pride. What a motivator. What a man.

He will always remembered and missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.

By Chris

September 8, 2006 11:43 AM | Link to this

GSU Football can be defined by one man. He was a great motivator, a caring coach, and a figure that will never be forgotten. GO EAGLES!

By Michael

September 8, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

Erk was the best. I’m proud to have been at Southern for his last years coaching. Words can’t begin to express what he meant to the school and the community. No matter how the Eagles fare this year or down the road, they will always be Erk’s team.

By Harry

September 8, 2006 11:45 AM | Link to this

He may have played at Auburn, but he was the original Junkyard Dawg!

By Bryan Hill

September 8, 2006 11:47 AM | Link to this

Erk meant more to Georgia Southern than just football, he is Georgia Southern thru and thru!

By john cox

September 8, 2006 11:48 AM | Link to this

erk was a great leader and inspiration to all who were around him or knew about him. he will be sorely missed in the community and in the world of sports. my deepest sympathy goes out to his family and friends. as a friend, admirer, and supporter, it is truly a sad day. GOD BLESS ERK RUSSELL.

By JR

September 8, 2006 11:49 AM | Link to this

We have lost a great man. He made friends out of fans, and men out of boys. He made this world a better place.

By Jay

September 8, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this

The mighty Coach was a great man that inspired boys to become men. He will forever be seared in my mind as just that. My thoughts and prayers go to his family, friends and the players who were lucky enough to play for the legend.

By Hirsch Bressler

September 8, 2006 11:51 AM | Link to this

He was what the game was all about - the game of football and the game of life - A rare and wonderful man. He will be missed.

By Jill

September 8, 2006 11:52 AM | Link to this

Erk was the best. God Bless and be with his family in this time. The state has truly lost a grand man.

By Robert Daniell

September 8, 2006 11:53 AM | Link to this

It’s a sad day for Georgia and Georgia Southern!!!!! I used to go to Athens to see Georgia play when I was a kid 1964, 1965, and on and on….I would do my best to get up high enough on my tip toes, to peer over the sacred Hedges, to get a good look at the man who was my hero at Georgia…… and will always be my Hero at Georgia!!!!! I remember 1990, I was in Athens for the Georgia/Kentucky game and they introduced the 1980 national championship team (10 yr. Reuninon) and Erk got an ovation that was unending and then they introduced the head coach Dooley….it was almost embarrasing…..no comparison whatsoever in the two recognitions. I like coach Dooley, but I loved, and will always love, Coach Russell. He was a Coach’s Coach and a Player’s Coach!!! His players would walk into fire for him and I would have too!!! Coach Dooley was veeeeeery fortunate to have him on his staff those 17 years. Remember, Georgia won, back in those days, on guts, determination, and defense. this world may never see the likes of a Erskine Russell again. God bless you Coach and your family!!!!

Robert Daniell Metter, Georgia

By Kelly

September 8, 2006 11:56 AM | Link to this

As a Alumni of GSU and Dawg fan, my heartfelt condolences go to the Russell family. I was a freshman his last coaching year. I would sometimes see Coach Russell at Snooky’s and he always invited me to sit down and eat with him. He is in my humble opinion one the of the greatest coaches to ever coach.

By Michael Gibbs

September 8, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this

Georgia Southern Tuition - $7,000+ Georgia Southern 2006 student enrollment - 16,000+ Georgia Southern Alumni - Over 50,000+ in the US Georgia Southern Head Coach Erk Russell - PRICELESS

What Erk Russell meant to Georgia Southern and the Statesboro community is PRICELESS. He will truely be missed!!!

By Chuck

September 8, 2006 11:57 AM | Link to this

I was a student assistant for the Sports Information Director from 1981-1984, when GSU football was reborn. I will always remember Erk as the motivator he was, but also as a pleasant, approachable man who did not let his success affect his attitude toward others. He was a class act and will be sorely missed.

By Ury

September 8, 2006 11:58 AM | Link to this

Erk will be missed.

His contribution to Georgia Southern University cannot be put into words. He was the face of the school and of course the football program.

Without Erk there would be no Ga Southern football legacy.

Thanks for the memories.

God Bless his family during this time.

By Shaun

September 8, 2006 12:00 PM | Link to this

College football has lost a great icon and coach. He was Georgia Southern Football. GATA Erk!!!!!

By Chief

September 8, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

“BIG TEAM, little me”, Erk Russell. 1989 - 25,000+ fans - 15-0 - Perfect. Today Coach Russell left us to join the Master. We already miss the gentleman: Erk Russell.

By Sam Pathak

September 8, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Russell family. Erk was one of the greatest coaches in the history of football. You will be missed by many!!

By wills olive

September 8, 2006 12:01 PM | Link to this

Fly high great eagle you are and one of a kind. we will miss you. greatest coach ever. a real gentlemen and loving person. long live COACH ERK. Fly high fly high

By kevin Butler

September 8, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

the best damn coach I never got to play for…one spring practica with him and I would have run through a wall for him…. the game of Football lost a piece of it’s Foundation today. Heavens’ defense just got a little tougher!

By louis freedman

September 8, 2006 12:05 PM | Link to this

The greatest coach ever.He could get more out of a player than anyone.Coach was also the nicest guy you will ever want to meet.I will surely miss him.

By RJ

September 8, 2006 12:05 PM | Link to this

The Bulldawg Nation mourns the loss of a great coach and, more importantly, a great man.

By James Denny Moore

September 8, 2006 12:06 PM | Link to this

The heart and soul of the Junkyard Dawgs !

God Bless.

By Scott

September 8, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

First off, my prayers go out to the Russell family. I know they will receive an outpouring of support over the coming days.

As a GSU alum, this is a very sad day. The shock of the sudden nature of the Bald One leaving us is rough. What Erk did for GSU is really immeasurable. Heck, if not for Erk, GSU may still be GSC. He was such an inspiring person. I don’t think the word “revered” is strong enough to describe what people thought about Erk.

To all the fans of both the Eagles and the Dawgs, a big loss.

I’ll be at GSU’s opening game tomorrow and I’m sure there will be a slightly dampened spirit and plenty of stories being shared.

By wayne

September 8, 2006 12:10 PM | Link to this

My momma went to Grady High and, at least while his health was good, Erk would actually go to the Grady reunions. I really doubt all these millionaire coaches out there now would do this type of thing once they retire. He was a class act all the way.

By JIMMY FLANAGAN

September 8, 2006 12:14 PM | Link to this

ROCKWOOD INN, LEXINGTON RD. ATHENS THURSDAY & FRIDAY AFTERNOON GAME PLANS. CIGARS & BEER (JUNKYARD DAWGS). THOSE WERE THE DAYS MY FRIND I THOUGHT THEYED NEVER END!!! ROCKWOOD OWNER MRS. YOUNKIN

By Norman Greenberg

September 8, 2006 12:14 PM | Link to this

The Memory of this man will last forever.

By gdawginkalamazoo

September 8, 2006 12:14 PM | Link to this

Prayers to the Russell family. He wasn’t just a Damn Good Dawg, he was one of the BEST DAMN DAWGS ever!

By BirdDawg

September 8, 2006 12:18 PM | Link to this

Oh my God.

I’m in total shock.

What happens Saturday doesn’t matter anymore.

Right now, at this moment I don’t care about anything else.

We’ve lost a legend. Vince’s right hand man. Leader of the Junkyard Dawgs.

Erk is gone.

By Julie Durham

September 8, 2006 12:20 PM | Link to this

My husband played for Erk from ‘82-‘86 and then was blessed by being able to coach as a GA with ERK. Your question IS TOO LIMITING for Erk’s influence. The mens lives he touched has a much GREATER IMPACT than just FOOTBALL. Most of these former players are GENTLEMEN because of ERK. They are motivated to “DO RIGHT” because of ERK. Their wives are blessed because of ERK. The sadness I feel right now has nothing to do with the LOSS of a great FOOTBALL coach in Georgia, but the LOSS of a truly GREAT SOUTHERN GENTLEMAN!!!

By Blake

September 8, 2006 12:21 PM | Link to this

“Built like a Bulldawg and Soared like an Eagle!

You only had to know the man to know what kind of legacy he left for the entire state of Georgia.

As a kid growing up in Athens we would sit in the “track” endzone during pregame and watch Erk headbutt his players. That is still unbelievable to me!

He walked in our weight room my senior year of high school wearing a suit and smoking his trademark cigar. He instantly commanded repect and attention from a room full of high schoolers. Motivation was his first name.

My prayers go out for his family and to every one who loved him.

By Darrell Huckaby

September 8, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this

If there are any football players in heaven—-the’ll be “getting after their a_ _ es” from now on. Erk Russell was the best there evr was at what he did. There will never be another like him.

By Marcus

September 8, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this

Every flag in Statesboro should fly at half mast for the entire football season.

God Bless the Russell Family.

By GSU_Alum_88

September 8, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this

It’s amazing that we can all atest to this man’s kindness. I only met him once and it was as everyone has said. He was kind and caring and overlooked no one. God’s blessing to his family.

By brent

September 8, 2006 12:22 PM | Link to this

TEAM me

By Don Hudson

September 8, 2006 12:23 PM | Link to this

This Great man was the turning point in my life. A poor, small runt from Warner Robins, and the scholarship that he gave me set the tone for the rest of my life. Being associated with him and GSU inspired me to be the teacher and coach that I am today. If you look around the state of Georgia, you will see great high school coaches and many of them derived from Georgia Southern Football. He made you want to be great. Failure was never an option because you thought that you would be letting him down. He created Champions! He breed men.

Much love and GOD bless the Russell family!

By Ed Lorenz

September 8, 2006 12:29 PM | Link to this

As a former sports editor for the Statesboro Herald, I spent countless days on the banks of “beautiful Eagle Creek” while Coach Russell directed practices. He was as genuine and sincere a human being as I ever knew. He carried his authority with perspective - humility and humor - underpinning the lives of hundreds of young men.

In my 15 years in radio and newspaper, Erk was the only personality I ever interviewed in a shower - and probably the only one who could have pulled it off with such aplomb. He had agreed to an interview and the practice ran long, but before his next engagement he invited me into the lockerroom while he cleaned up. I sat on the bench and noted how unique, forthright and humble he was. And how he encouraged a young writer as he encouraged his players.

God bless the man. God certainly blessed us with him. My prayers are with his family - now so legion for having known him.

By Eagle Girl

September 8, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

Erk wasn’t coaching in my college years (99—03)but he was still a legend. I remember seeing him in the Food Lion on Fair Road and creeping over to see what was in his buggy. I was just in awe that he ate food like the rest of us!

What a great man. He brings the Dawgs and Eagles together.

By Jerald Sargent,Sr

September 8, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this

I had the pleasure of being a freshman in 1964 under coach Doc Ayers. I remember Coach Russell’s bald head and he use to use me as a battering ram I had big strings on the front of my shoulder pads and he butted me with his bald head and it brought blood. Last saw him when the Class of ‘64 went on field at UGA and had our pictures made with him and Coach Dooley. Go You Ole Dawg He phrased the “Junk Yard Dawg” from Croce’s song “Meaner than a Junk Yard Dawg” Will alway remember and know he has to be in heaven….. My prayers and thoughts got out to his family

By Ed Lorenz

September 8, 2006 12:34 PM | Link to this

As a former sports editor for the Statesboro Herald, I spent countless days on the banks of “beautiful Eagle Creek” while Coach Russell directed practices. He was as genuine and sincere a human being as I ever knew. He carried his authority with perspective - humility and humor - underpinning the lives of hundreds of young men.

In my 15 years in radio and newspaper, Erk was the only personality I ever interviewed in a shower - and probably the only one who could have pulled it off with such aplomb. He had agreed to an interview and the practice ran long, but before his next engagement he invited me into the lockerroom while he cleaned up. I sat on the bench and noted how unique, forthright and humble he was. And how he encouraged a young writer as he encouraged his players.

God bless the man. God certainly blessed us with him. My prayers are with his family - now so legion for having known him.

By Dan

September 8, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

The Eagle has landed.

By Billy

September 8, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

I met Coach Russel back in the early 90’s on Amelia Island where he had a home. We met at the golf course. He and I spoke of mutual friends(former players under him). He was nothing but kind and considerate. I am in shock as is my brother when I called him at work. I have nothing but complete respect for him and deepest regrets for his family.

By Victoria

September 8, 2006 12:39 PM | Link to this

SnookPAC will miss its Chairman, who hasn’t had a bad hair day since 1958.

The most famous bald Eagle in Georgia history.

“We made him famous.” Bruce Yawn

“The secret to success: Get a lead and hold it.” Erk Russell.

By j

September 8, 2006 12:40 PM | Link to this

Erk Russell’s legacy is THE GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY. He put the school on the national map and his legacy will live on forever.

By Scott

September 8, 2006 12:44 PM | Link to this

Erk Russell was one of those larger than life figures that you never thought would die…and now he has…sad day.

GATA Erk…

By Larry Bowman

September 8, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this

We have lost a great coach and gentleman. My prayers go out to the family during this time. No doubt he is a legend and will be missed my many. God bless you.

By 59bulldawg

September 8, 2006 12:48 PM | Link to this

Simply put I loved that man! He represented everything good about football in the South. He was Papa Dawg … a class act in every way and as long as I live I will always remember his “junkyard dawgs” and the wonderful ways he motivated our team. God bless you Erk. We’ll miss you.

By Slo

September 8, 2006 12:51 PM | Link to this

Erk talked to all the kids at the Statesboro Recreation Department before our season started around 1981. I was on the 8th grade team and he was just revitalizing the football team. GSC at the time hadn’t had a team since the 40s. All I can remember from the his speach was his presence and his t-shirt which he discussed, “BIG TEAM little me.” We could use more of that in today’s game.

When Erk came to GSC enrollment was just over 6000, and now I see its around 16000. The football team brought Championships and the students followed. And, eventually, GSC got University status. I am sure Erk helped speed up that process.

He touched so many… he will be sorely missed.

Eric Slorahn

By youcantspellwinnerwithoutWR

September 8, 2006 12:54 PM | Link to this

There are so many things we wouldn’t have at GSU without Coach Russell - those six (soon to be seven) national championship flags, Paulson Stadium, “Beautiful Eagle Creek”, a growing and expanding campus, and all that - but the thing we would have missed out on the most is Erk Russell the man: the giant motivator, the encourager, the teacher, and the guy who kicked your butt when he knew you needed it. We all have lost a great friend. God Bless the Russell family.

By Jason Eubanks

September 8, 2006 12:55 PM | Link to this

Erk Russell was a hero to me as a kid. Growing up playing football I attended his football camp for years. He was motivator and someone I have always admired.

By John

September 8, 2006 12:55 PM | Link to this

As a former student athlete at “GSC” he was Ga. Southern. He was Statesboro. He was Snookies! Great man. He was always pleasant, always w/ a smile and a wave. Greatest Erk moment for me: He came to talk to the soccer team before our first away game. It was foggy that day and as he came from the football fields across Beautiful Eagle Creek we all agreed he “emerged” from the mist. He just appeared! A rousing speech of which he knew squat about soccer but he was awesome! He even asked Coach if he could cuss to his team. A true gentleman. The world is a little sadder, Heaven is bursting! He will be missed.

By Blake Giles

September 8, 2006 12:57 PM | Link to this

Erk Russell may have started out as an Auburn Tiger and may have finished as a Georgia Southern Eagle, but in my mind he was a Georgia Bulldog. In researching a book on the 1980 national championship, of which he was the defensive coordinator, it was my good fortune to visit with many Georgia players from that team. As I expected, the defensive players had wonderful comments about Coach Russell, but even the offensive players remembered him fondly. Chris Welton was a rover on that 1980 team. He is said to have been one of the brightest players on the team, though that did not prevent him from being caught in the infamous purloined pig escapade. “When I talk about Erk, people think I am going to say he was mean,” Welton told me. “You never played for him because you were scared of him. He didn’t raise his voice. He was like a good parent. You played for him because you didn’t want to disappoint him.” “He could look at you and make you feel like you were Superman,” said Mike Fisher, a walk-on cornerback who made an interception in Georgia’s title-clinching win over Notre Dame. “You felt elevated when you were around him.” The players eventually came to admire and respect and like Vince Dooley, but they all connected with Coach Russell right away. Indeed, whenever I had the good fortune to be in Erk’s presence, he had the ability to make you feel like there was no place in the world that you would rather be than with him. He loved funny stories and loved to tell them, and he did so on the field. He understood that football practice could disintegrate into drudgery quickly. If he could lighten the mood with a funny story, then so much the better. “He had the funniest jokes,” recalled Greg Bell, another defensive back from the 1980 team. “He kept us motivated. He took a bunch of guys who were kind of plain and turned them into the Junkyard Dogs.” “He and Lewis Grizzard had the same brain,” said former defensive lineman Tim Crow. “He would be a great dad. In fact, seeing him is just like seeing my dad.” Those big TEAM, little me shirts are everywhere. That was his idea. Coach Russell said that if he and Woody Chastain had been smart enough to trademark the shirts, they could have been millionaires. “I guess Woody is a millionaire,” he laughed. He loved to tell the Robert Miles story from that 1980 team. Miles, who is on the athletic staff now, was buried behind some talented tight ends when he was switched to defense. The offensive coach, Bill Pace, Doc Eldridge’s late father-in-law, made a disparaging remark about Miles, which was watered down for the book as follows: “Robert Miles was a pansy.” Use your imagination. Anyway, Erk capitalized on that comment the week before the 1980 opener when Georgia played Tennessee, which by then had hired Pace as its offensive coordinator. “I got a telegram from Tennessee’s Bill Pace,” Erk said before calisthenics that Monday. “It says, ‘Robert Miles is a pansy!’” It was the perfect comic relief, and the following week, Erk had a telegram from the Texas A&M coach that said, “Robert Miles is a pansy!” And so it went each week. The same telegram, the same punch line. If Erk was late wn Erk Russen Erk Ruith his ruse, the players would ask, “Coach, did you get a telegram this week?” Until the week before the Notre Dame game, as the team broke for the holidays, Miles reversed the ribbing. “Coach, I got a telegram from Dan Devine. He said, ‘Erk Russell is a pansy!’” He was more than merely a funny man. He was a crafty football tactician, who took parts of an ancient defense and manufactured something called a split-60, old even then, and extinct now. He used to say he got the leftovers from the offense, though it would be hard to call such stalwarts as Jake Scott, Bill Stanfill, Ben Zambiasi, Scott Woerner and Jimmy Payne leftovers. But no matter the talent he was dealt, his defenses were tough, hard-nosed units who surrendered ground grudgingly. It was after an uncharacteristically poor 1974 season that he came up with the moniker Junkyard Dogs, a name which has hung around for years. The Notre Dame game was the last game Erk coached as a Bulldog. Georgia Southern started its program, and they could not have selected anyone better suited for the job. But Erk coached one other game before he went to Georgia Southern, and that was the G-Day game in the spring of 1981. I had the good fortune to be the media coach for that game, which we won, 31-13. We had a freshman kicker on the team named Kevin Butler and I let him attempt a 65-yard field goal as the game ended. I always told Erk that he could count the national spring football championship among his titles too. The Eagles of Georgia Southern have every right to claim Erk as theirs, but Erk was the kind of man that everyone claimed as theirs. Everyone who ever met him is surely glad they did.

By Scott Z

September 8, 2006 12:58 PM | Link to this

At my time at Southern I was fortunate to have been associated with the football team. Although my time was after Coach Russells many of the people I was associated with had spent many hours on the practice field with him. They had such great stories to tell about him. Every now and then he would come by the field house and visit. As a very green freshmen I was in great awe of him. I would also go and eat at Snookys with a good friend of mine, who was close to Coach Russell. He would come in and eat with us. The last time I saw Coach Russell was last summer when my family was on our way to Amelia Island for vacation. He ate with us and answered all of our questions about the Island. He was a FANTASTIC coach a SUPER human being and he will be missed!!!!

By REW

September 8, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

Great man, great coach, great motivator, and a great big heart. He will be sorely missed.

By john

September 8, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this

The original “Junkyard Dawg” will be missed.. thank you for all of the wonderful memories!

By Bugger

September 8, 2006 01:14 PM | Link to this

Erk motivated his UGA and Georgia Southern players to great heights. It wasn’t the “Beautiful Eagle Creek” water that was magical. It was Erk himself. Yet, as great a coach as he was, he was a better man. Caring, genuine and humble. As good as you can imagine.

By Cuz

September 8, 2006 01:14 PM | Link to this

The whole state of Georgia will go into mourning. I am lowering my Georgia logo flag to half-mast. We have lost a man who meant so much to two seperate programs that without his guidance would never have attained such National Recognition.

Who can forget the site of that man on the sidelines with blood streaming down his bald head after banging his head against his players helments for motivation. I am recalling this from memory so forgive me if I paraphrase, When asked if banging players helments was painful he replied, “No, they got helments”. Thinking of his players, not himself.

He gave so much of himself and although I only ran into him a few times at UGA, I feel like I have lost a member of my own family.

Thanks Erk for everything.

DAM GOOD DAWG, DAM FINE EAGLE

By Flint Matthews

September 8, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

One of my life’s greatest blessings was playing for the legend that was Erk Russell. He was the master of motivation. His greatest attribute was his genuine caring and concern for each individual player. I hope St. Peter stocked up on the cigars. He’ll need alot to celebrate that life.

By Edward Eaves

September 8, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

Coach Russell, Thank you, I love You! Edward

By T. Pate

September 8, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this

Just ain’t got the words…

By Brett

September 8, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this

I always enjoy looking at the picture my Grandfather has of me when I was a kid sitting on Erk’s knee at a UGA fan weekend. Unfortunately Erk had already resigned his coaching duties at GSU by the time I got there, but you could always feel his presence and influence in the ‘Boro. Even without ever having any interaction with him, you could always sense how truely great he was! Georgia Southern would never have been what it is today without him! You will be missed Coach Russell! God bless you and your family!

By USAFCCF

September 8, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this

Bear Bryant now has the SECs best defensive coordinator with him. Erk Russell is a Souther icon and will be missed by all. God Bless him and his family

By Cary

September 8, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

Coach Russell coached my dad at Grady High School. I met him in 1978 while attending UGA. I approached him after practice inquiring about walking on as a kicker. The first thing he asked me was how my “daddy” was. He probably hadn’t seen or spoken to my dad in 30+ years, yet it was the first thing he asked me. He was an inspiration to many and a true gentleman’s gentleman. Oh boy, will he be missed. UGA should dedicate this season to our beloved coach.

By Jen

September 8, 2006 01:27 PM | Link to this

GATA Erk! Be worthy as you run upon this hallowed sod,for you have dared to tred where Champions have trod.

SO worthy Erk, so worthy - You’ll be missed - but remembered as a Damn Good Dawg!

By Pratt Hill

September 8, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this

I called my Daughters and could barely tell them the news about Erk. They both broke down crying and then I received a text from my young son who has never texted his Dad. The text read “Erk Died”. He was a man that was like a Father to everyone he knew. Our family will truly miss him.

By Angie

September 8, 2006 01:29 PM | Link to this

I will never forget lunch between classes at Snooky’s, listening to Erk and his buddies reflect on the world! It’s a sad day for Georgia Southern to lose an icon that can’t be replaced.

By Ricky Harris

September 8, 2006 01:32 PM | Link to this

Erk will be greatly missed, but he left a legacy of memories that will never be forgotten, I am a better man for not just playing for him but being in his prescence. My son is now a red shirt eagle and he informed me this morning that Coach Russell visited with this years team yesterday to provide words of encouragement, incredible man, he will be sorely missed for generations to come. As an eagle I will cherish the time with him and try to impart some of his invaluable wisdom, “DO RIGHT”-

By Rick Jordan

September 8, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this

I have read so many great comments about Coach Russell and what a gentleman he was and all of his great accomplishments in coaching and in life. I have been fortunate to know Coach and Rusty and Jay over the years and I concur. His football exploits pale in comparison to his life exploits. Erk Russell was a great American and they’re not many left. Rest in Peace my friend. May the Lord Bless and Keep His Family.

By Marc M

September 8, 2006 01:41 PM | Link to this

It is a real shame that a fabulous man like Erk Russell had to end up at a junk heap of a “school” like Georgia Southern, land of 120 degree temperatures, 900 SAT freshmen and second-tier, hayseed alumni. He deserved better than that.

By jim

September 8, 2006 01:44 PM | Link to this

TEAM me

By kevin jackson

September 8, 2006 01:48 PM | Link to this

In 1992, I was granted the privilege of running the weekly programs for the UGA Bulldog Club of Jacksonville. I had always thought that if I had that responsibility I would want Coach Russell to speak at the first meeting of the year. So, I embarked on getting in touch with him by calling the Ga Southern athletic department. They told me he was at his condo in Fernandina, and they gave me the telephone number. He answered the phone immediately. I was one nervous cat. I had grown up as a kid in the sixties and seventies listening to Larry Munson, and during those years as a kid, I was only able to attend one game a year, and that game was the Florida game, since I grew up in South Georgia. So, my image of Coach Russell included a bloody forehead. I attended UGA from 1980 to 1985, and I was a big fan of Erk Russell. I hated, as all of his did, to see him leave. In my opinion, he WAS Georgia football more so than anyone. I know I’m rambling, but to cut to the chase, Coach Russell not only agreed to come speak to our club, he talked with me for app. thirty minutes on the telephone that day. He spoke with me as if he had known me his entire life, and he had no earthly idea who I was. What a genuinely nice man! He will be missed not only by UGA and GSU faithful, but also by ANYONE who ever had the pleasure of meeting him!

By Bugger

September 8, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this

Erk’s passing leads the Web site of one of the nation’s largest newspapers and the Web sites of two universities (Auburn surely can’t be far behind) and people are pouring out their hearts on this site and elsewhere. That should tell us all a lot about the man’s legacy.

By Jasom

September 8, 2006 01:53 PM | Link to this

Everybody loved Erk! No words can explain this day. He was suppose to live forever and stand in the endzone while watching GSU play football at paulson. I have no other words. I’m still in disbelief

By gadawg

September 8, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

I grew up in Statesboro living there from 1979 until 1994. He was a UGA icon but a GSU legend. Everyone in town went to eat at Snooky’s every morning just to walk by and tell coach good morning. He put GSU on the map and w/o him that university is not anything close to what it is now and the same goes for the Statesboro community. He will be missed and thanks to him the town adopted the saying “One more time” to get Erk to stay at GSU over going back to UGA when Dooley stepped down. He stayed and led them more titles.

I think they should consider changing the name of Paulson Stadium.

By John

September 8, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this

God bless Erk Russell and the entire Russell family. He was a man of class and many of us will sorely miss him. Working as sports editor of the George-Anne at Ga. Southern, meeting Erk Russell was one of the highlights of my time spent in Statesboro. A truly enigmatic man.

Eagle Nation is grieving this day. Go Eagles!

By CD

September 8, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this

I have a ball from quaterfinals game of the 1989 Championship Season. 15-0. I’ll now frame it with Erk’s picture.

By sad

September 8, 2006 02:05 PM | Link to this

Mark M… Your words do not belong on this BLOG. Erk loved Georgia Southern, and would be sad to see someone insult a school that he helped so much. You moron.

By Dennis

September 8, 2006 02:07 PM | Link to this

What a sad day. Erk’s credentials as a college football coach are unparalleled! And as a Georgia Southern grad who met the man on several occasions, I can honestly say that you could not meet a nicer person.

And how ironic his death would be today - with Coach Vangorder, another former Defensive Coordinator from Georgia - set to begin a new era of Ga. Southern football tomorrow.
Erk Russell is a coaching legend, and he will be greatly missed.

By Jerry

September 8, 2006 02:11 PM | Link to this

I still vividly remember back in 1980 Erk roaming the halls of my high school in an attempt to recruit one of the seniors. Myself and all my freshman buddies stood in awe as THE MAN strode by. I had the opportunity to briefly play for him at Southern and he had some of the most memorable lines: Just One More Time and You Gotta Have A Bad Case of the Wants are the 2 I remember most. He’s the only coach I’ve ever known who could get you excited about practicing during 2 a days in 95 degree heat with the ‘Boro humidity bearing down on you. That’s the kind of coach he was. In the 90’s I used to send him nice cigars in exchange for his autograph on certain items; He always sent them back signed with a nice note attached. That’s the kind of man he was.

By AB Adams

September 8, 2006 02:16 PM | Link to this

To: Marc M. This is suppose to be a tribute forum for a great, great man. It is not for assinine opinions on a fine school like Georgia Southern from a complete idiot. You sir, are an embarrasment. You obviously never knew Coach Russell…or knew what he stood for……..

By Eugene

September 8, 2006 02:18 PM | Link to this

“Bend but don’t break.”

By Beth C.

September 8, 2006 02:19 PM | Link to this

I worked in the GSU football office as a student during Erk’s reign. He was the nicest met I ever met. Over 20 years later, he would say hello and call me by my name every time he saw me. He was a great man, a great example, and there will never be another Erk Russell. God Bless.

By Bugger

September 8, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this

Yeah, Mark. Remember the man. Do right.

By Bear

September 8, 2006 02:21 PM | Link to this

You knew when you were in his presence that he was “larger than life”. He always stopped and talked to my young sons as he walked around our neighborhood, and never refused anyone needing an autograph or favor. I will forever treasure the memories of Coach Russell…he made Statesboro and GSU what it is today. What a man…what an example of what a man can and should be…what a life. We love you, Erk…thanks for everything you did for all of us.

By Edgar Smith

September 8, 2006 02:24 PM | Link to this

I am fortunate enough to have diplomas from both Georgia Southern University and the University of Georgia hanging on my wall. As an alumnus and a fan of both programs, it is a sad day for the Dawg/Eagle. Thoughts and prayers to his family and may his seat at Snooky’s always be left open.

By Steve

September 8, 2006 02:26 PM | Link to this

Honestly, with all the great pictures of this great man that are out there, don’t you thank that the AJC.com folks could come up with a better one for the front of their website than a picture with Jim Donnan. C’mon AJC, use your imagination. Find another picture to memorialize this man on the front of your site!

By Brian Boozer

September 8, 2006 02:29 PM | Link to this

Erk Russell put Georgia Southern University on the map. The only reason that Statesboro and GSU have grown thru the years is simply because this man had a vision to create a respected program from nothing at all. He is responsible for every one of our great traditons and he is the reason why my family makes the 4 hour drive to south Georgia every fall Saturday. Coach Russell was larger than life. God bless his family and be with them during their loss. GATA

By Hunk Erdown

September 8, 2006 02:30 PM | Link to this

A poet named Edward Markum said it best:

**There is a destiny that makes us brothers,

None goes his way alone.

All that we send into the lives of others,

comes back into our own.**

Coach Russell died a rich man… rich in the love of the people that he touched throughout his life.

God Bless you Erk, you and Lewis Grizzard save me a place up there.

By Angie

September 8, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

He was the “Bear Bryant” of Football for the state of Georgia and he will be GREATLY missed!!! I went to school at Georgia Southern and he was the nicest man!! I will remember him always with the greatest affection!!!

By Palmetto State Dawg

September 8, 2006 02:33 PM | Link to this

I am just in shock as I have just found out about Coach Russell’s passing. I am just overwhelmed with sadness. My wife & I will be attending the GA-USC game tomorrow in Columbia, and I can’t even think about that after learning that Coach Russell has died. The best story I ever heard about Erk was when the Dawgs were down to Tech back in the late 60’s at Grant Field. At halftime Erk was trying to get his defense fired up for the second half, and he glanced over at the letters GTAA, which stood for GA Tech Athletic Assoc. He told the guys to move the A & the T around and make it GATA….meaning Get After Their A*! They did just that, and beat The Nerds. I will cherish my autographed picture that I have of Coach Russell bleeding from his head. God bless the Russell family. By the way, Marc M, you’re an idiot.

By JakeScottWannaBe

September 8, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

My, oh my, take it easy, Coach Russell.

By J

September 8, 2006 02:36 PM | Link to this

Just Do Right

By Ed Smith

September 8, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this

I’ve been a Tech fan since the early 60’s, but I have to say that I respected and admired Erk as much as any football person I have ever known of. He was a man’s man, and you could see how much his players loved him. We’re going to miss him, and sadly they don’t make em like that anymore.

By Kermit

September 8, 2006 02:44 PM | Link to this

If you would’ve told me that the President had gotten shot it wouldn’t have hit me this hard. There is no single individual more responsible for the growth of Statesboro and GSU than Coach Erk Russell! Coach, people that don’t even know you, owe you. Today, my heart truly bleeds blue.

By Flip Dreger

September 8, 2006 02:52 PM | Link to this

The original bald-eagle himself is gone…Statesboro, Southern, UGA, and the whole college football world has lost an icon…The legend will go on, though.

GOD BLESS ERK…ONE MORE TIME!!!!

By jim

September 8, 2006 02:57 PM | Link to this

Sounds like Mark M flunked out of GSU and got a job cleaning out locker rooms for the local high school. LOSER!! GO EAGLES!!!!

By Paul Coleman

September 8, 2006 03:01 PM | Link to this

Quick ERK Story: I left work early one Saturday to haul to Statesboro to catch a 3:00 football game. I was in dirty work clothes, but I had an old Georgia Southern Football T-Shirt(From around 1987-88)behind the seat of my Truck. It was gray and had several holes, but I thought I’d pull it on since it was cleaner than my work shirt. I was parking my car right at 3:00. I slung open the door, because I was hurrying to try and see the kick off, and I nearly knocked my door right into Coach Russell. He was walking through cars trying to get to the gate as well. I apologized for almost hitting him and told him I hoped he enjoyed the game. He said it should be a good one and walked on. He then turned around and said “nice shirt”. From anyone else, I would have figured they were being smart. From Erk, it meant thanks for sharing the same love for this team and school that I do. Erk was a busy person, but never too busy to stop and make someone feel special. I really cannot put what Erk meant to me into words, but sharing this memory helps. May God Bless the Russell family during this time. Thank you for sharing your Husband and Father with the rest of us.

By Marc M

September 8, 2006 03:09 PM | Link to this

I apologize. My comments were out of place. Erk WAS a great man and did a lot for those he came in contact with.

My bad.

By GSUBass

September 8, 2006 03:09 PM | Link to this

I only met Coach Russell once in my life while I attended Georgia Southern, but the comment he said to me will stay with me my whole life.

I’ll forever see him leaning against the fence behind the endzone smoking his cigar.

By mathew

September 8, 2006 03:11 PM | Link to this

erk’s legend will not only be in the prettiest stadium in america but it flowed through the campus at southern like eagle creek, with the water he claimed was miraculous.

he was a good man. he ‘just did good.’

By RxDawg

September 8, 2006 03:15 PM | Link to this

From a GSU and UGA alumni, RIP “bald eagle” we will miss you.

By Vic Barocas

September 8, 2006 03:22 PM | Link to this

A STATE CHAMPION Football Coach at Grady High School. After that, his defenses dominated at UGA. All those “defenders” shaving their heads out of “respect”. A Gentle-Man. He will always be remembered so fondly. A Real Legend can now be just that - A Real Legend!

By nick f.

September 8, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this

Recent GSU grad stopping in to tell a story. When I went to GSU as a high school senior to tour the campus, my dad came along for the tour. After an hour or so, my Dad started asking the tour guide if Erk was still around, and the tour guide said he was still a very public figure in Statesboro. Five minutes later, we were walking toward the GSU bookstore and Erk popped out from around the corner! We introduced ourselves and told him what had happened and he got a rise out of it, was very nice to us (though I don’t remember exactly what he said.) Continued to see him around Sboro for my whole college career, always kind of a thrill. (I also saw him in the Food Lion on Fair Rd. one time.)

By Michael Johnson

September 8, 2006 03:25 PM | Link to this

JUST ONE MORE TIME I wish Coach Russell was going to come in to Snooky’s and announce to the roundtable, “Good afternoon gentlemen…and you too, Michael.” I was a bum when I started eating with that group, but I credit him, in part, with my turnaround…I wanted so much to please him. He had that affect on all that knew him. I cannot possibly express just how sad I am right now. I’ll never forget TIMBUKTU, The “War Department,” the “Pick Pocket,” or any of the rest.
I wonder if Lewis Grizzard has already written a column about Heaven gaining one more great soul today…Just One More Time.

By lance

September 8, 2006 03:28 PM | Link to this

Mark M. You have a lot of class. All of it being LOW.

By The Man

September 8, 2006 03:31 PM | Link to this

Mark M likes men.

By The Man

September 8, 2006 03:36 PM | Link to this

Marc M also likes men

By Raymond Gross

September 8, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this

Coach Russell was a father to young men who needed one. A mentor to those who strived to be great. A friend to everyone he met, and a coach that every athlete should have the HONOR of playing for!!! To the Russell family, our prayers are with you and coach Russell will never be forgotten!!! GATA

By Gerald

September 8, 2006 03:38 PM | Link to this

When they change the name of the stadium, it should never be Russell Statium . simply Erk’s Place … a better man I have never known

By Charles S.

September 8, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this

Mark has apologized. Coach Russell would have wanted that to be accepted and to move on.

By Andy

September 8, 2006 03:43 PM | Link to this

Thank you Erk. You made my Saturdays in Statesboro fun every week. GATA. RTH.

By Joe

September 8, 2006 03:49 PM | Link to this

Bama fan here, not a Georgia fan; with that said I still had so much respect for Erk as a coach and from what I have read on these post, as a man too. Godspeed Coach.

By Jason C

September 8, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

Thank you Erk for putting GSU on the map, three NCAA national titles and for being just a good human being. GATA

Marc M you ignorance about GSU is only surpassed by your stupidy and total lack of class. If your behavior is what it takes to not be a hayseed or second rate alumni then I take your classes comments as a compliment. You might want to update your ill concieved notions about GSU also it is not 1985.

By Mike

September 8, 2006 03:57 PM | Link to this

True legend. You would be hard pressed to name a coach to have won (2) National Championships. Well, Erk won (3) in 7 years. The first championship in his 4th year of a brand new start-up football program!! His genius in football will truly be missed. Erk, the man he was, will never be forgotten. Mark M’s comments are disresptful to Erk, his family & friends and to the many GSU fans that were fortunate to share in Erk’s legacy. His opinion is insulting and not appropriate for this blog. Erk, thanks for everything.

By godawg

September 8, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

“Another Saturday tradition which has meant so much to me over the years can be stated very simply. There ain’t nothin’ like being a Bulldog on a Saturday night - after winning a football game! I mean like whipping Tennessee’s a$$ to start with, then ten more and then another one. That is the plan. There is no alternate plan.”

-Coach Erk Russell

Thanks Coach. That’s still the plan plus two more.

By JD

September 8, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

Coach Russell lived the golden rule; he always treated others like he wanted to be treated. There will never, ever be another Erk Russell.

By Clay

September 8, 2006 04:00 PM | Link to this

The best damn good Eagle ever.

Erk may have been the last 4 year letterman at Auburn in school history and won a national championship with