Initial Plans Announced for Erk 100 Celebration
5/18/2026 12:45:00 PM | General, Athletic Foundation
New license plates for Erk Russell Fund members unveiled
STATESBORO - The Georgia Southern Department of Athletics and the Georgia Southern Athletic Foundation have announced preliminary plans to celebrate Erk Russell's 100th birthday.
"We are excited to celebrate what would have been Coach Erk Russell's 100th birthday and honor a man whose impact on Georgia Southern reaches far beyond wins and championships," said Director of Athletics Chris Davis. "Erk built a culture of toughness, belief and pride that still defines Eagle Nation today. The Erk 100 is a celebration of a legendary coach, but more importantly, it is a celebration of a legacy that will forever live in Statesboro and throughout Georgia Southern Athletics."
The Erk Russell Fund is the lifeblood of Georgia Southern Athletics, supporting scholarships for student-athletes in all 17 sports. By joining the Erk Russell Fund for as little as $60 annually or $5 monthly, you help provide an education for many students who may not otherwise be able to afford it. To learn more about the different levels of the Erk Russell Fund, go to soaraboveall.com.
Whether you feel led to give $100, $1,000, or $10,000, every gift honors a legend whose 100-year legacy continues to inspire generations of Eagles. Click here to join or give: gseagles.com/erf
Each year, Erk Russell Fund members receive an exclusive license plate as a symbol of their commitment to supporting Georgia Southern student-athletes. This year's license plate incorporates the Erk 100 logo along with his famous quote, "One More Time," from Erk Russell's very own handwriting. The license plate design pays tribute to Coach Russell's lasting legacy that honors 100 years since his birth (1926-2026).
On Oct. 31, the Eagles host App State for one of the most anticipated games of the season, highlighted by Erk 100 and a stadium-wide White Out. Launching later this summer, Erk 100 is a celebration honoring the enduring legacy of Erk Russell on what would be his 100th birthday on July 23. More than just a tribute, this initiative is a chance to reconnect our community with the toughness, pride, and championship standard he built. Through special events, storytelling, and fan engagement, Erk 100 will celebrate the man who defined our culture and inspire a new generation to carry his legacy forward.
Further details are to follow.
