STATESBORO – Georgia Southern University unveiled a bronze statue Friday evening honoring Freedom, the university's iconic live bald eagle mascot who inspired generations of Eagle Nation from 2004 until his passing this spring.
The ceremony, held outside Bishop Field House, brought together university leaders, state officials, donors, alumni and fans to celebrate Freedom's enduring legacy.
"Freedom wasn't just a mascot. He was a symbol of strength, unity and that True Blue pride that defines Georgia Southern," said Georgia Southern President Dr. Kyle Marrero. "From his first flight over Paulson Stadium to countless commencements and parades, Freedom represented our spirit and inspired thousands across the state and country."
Marrero traced the origin of the tradition back to a 1990 playoff game, when a TV announcer mistook a circling turkey vulture for a bald eagle. That moment, paired with alumnus Harry Matthews' vision and the dedication of falconer Steve Hein, ultimately led to the creation of the Center for Wildlife Education in 1997 and Freedom's first flight at Paulson Stadium in 2006.
State leaders also recognized Freedom's impact. Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives Jon Burns and State Sen. Billy Hickman presented resolutions passed earlier this year honoring Freedom's life and legacy.
Athletic Director
Chris Davis emphasized the emotional connection fans and visitors shared with the eagle.
"When Freedom soared above Paulson Stadium, it was never just a pregame ritual. It was a reminder of who we are: a family bound together by resilience, strength and True Blue pride," Davis said. "At road games across the country, fans from opposing teams would ask to take photos with him. Freedom connected people. He reminded everyone that our traditions at Georgia Southern are something truly special."
Davis also thanked Steve Hein, Freedom's trainer and caretaker, calling him the eagle's "closest companion for so many years."
The statue, made possible through the generosity of Mitch and Tonya Kincaid, was designed under the guidance of Jeff Garland, acting dean of the College of Arts and Humanities. It now stands as a permanent reminder of Freedom's place among Georgia Southern legends such as Coach Erk Russell, Tracy Ham and
Adrian Peterson.
To continue Freedom's legacy, Georgia Southern announced new commemorative items, including collectible pins and limited-edition stadium mugs featuring Freedom's likeness. A portion of proceeds from mug sales will benefit the Center for Wildlife Education and the Lamar Q Ball Jr. Raptor Center.
"His legacy is not confined to stone or bronze; it lives in every fan who wears blue and white, in every student who joins our family, and in every generation that learns what it means to be an Eagle," Davis said.
Among the dignitaries were Speaker Jon Burns and Senator Billy Hickman, David and Fayebeth Ball and their family, Regent Everett Kennedy, members of the University and Athletic Foundation Boards, members of the Alumni Association Board of Directors, Mitch and Tonya Kincaid, Eli Daniel, on behalf of Congressman Rick Allen, and Tangie Reese-Johnson, member of Statesboro City Council.
The evening concluded with the unveiling of the statue, followed by applause and photographs with the Kincaid family, the Hein family, and Wildlife Center staff.
Georgia Southern football takes on Jax State Saturday at 7 p.m. inside Allen E. Paulson Stadium. Fans are welcome to take photos with the new statue at any point moving forward.
