Georgia Tech had two noteworthy visitors to practice Monday, two men written into the history of the athletic department. Former athletic director Homer Rice and longtime trainer Jay Shoop came separately to watch the Yellow Jackets train on Alexander Rose Bowl Field.
During the practice, Collins visited with Shoop, who mended Tech athletes for 29 years (1987-99, 2002-17) and is in the school’s sports hall of fame. Rice, who led one of the most successful eras of Tech athletics (1980-97), stopped by later with wife Karen. Collins introduced Rice to the team.
“That was awesome,” Collins said of Rice’s visit. “This is the first time he’s come out and stayed and watched practice. I introduced him to all the guys afterward and they went up and introduced themselves and paid respect and honor to him.”
Collins said that at the end of his first stop at Tech (1999-2001), when he was looking for a job, Rice came to his aid.
“He helped me with advice, some care, some good things and I’ll never forget all that he means to me,” Collins said.
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