College Sports

Georgia’s bulldog mascot, UGA VI, passed away last week of congestive heart failure. He died at his home in Savannah.

Now normally I would probably not write about a mascot… especially one at a rival school. But Uga is different.

Uga (the name is pronounced uhg-uh, and is a reference to Georgia’s school initials, UGa), is probably the best known mascot in the nation. He has been proclaimed the nation’s best by no less than Sports Illustrated. The lineage, English bulldog, is secure, according the the University.

Uga VI was heavier than any previous Georgia mascot at 65 pounds. He outweighed his dad by 20 pounds. He first took the field for the Bulldogs when he was less than a year old, in 1999. During his tenure, Georgia’s football team won two SEC Championships (2002 and 2005)and had a record of 87-27.

But football was not the only arena where Georgia saw success during Uga VI’s reign. All told, 19 of Georgia’s 33 national championships came during this period.

Here are some quotes on the passing of Uga VI:

“This is a very sad day for the entire Bulldog Nation. Uga has always been such a strong figure associated the University of Georgia nationwide. Uga VI was a damn good mascot and a damn good dog. He was an outstanding representative of our fine institution.” Athletic Director Damon Evans.

“Uga VI served with extraordinary courage and heart as a beloved University of Georgia mascot. He was a true symbol of the toughness and competitiveness of our athletic teams, and was a rallying figure for the entire Bulldog Nation.” University of Georgia President Dr. Michael F. Adams

“Uga VI was indeed a damn good dog. Alumni of all ages had a special relationship with him, and he always drew a crowd of alumni faithful, whether at the Sugar Bowl, the Homecoming Parade, or simply walking into Sanford Stadium before leading us to victory. We will miss him and all he stood for.” Trey Paris, President of the Georgia Alumni Association

Like all previous Uga’s, Uga VI will be buried in a marble vault in the Southwest corner of Sanford Stadium, Georgia’s football stadium, with his predecessors.

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