President and First Lady Host Appreciation Dinner for Wildcat Football Team
By: FVSU Office of Sports Information
November 19, 2009
The mood was extremely festive in Fort Valley State University’s (FVSU) Pettigrew Center last night as FVSU President Larry Rivers and First Lady Betty Rivers showed their appreciation for the job done by the 2009 Wildcat Football team. The First Couple sponsored an exclusive dinner to thank the FVSU football players, coaches, and support staff.
The Wildcats finished the season with a 7-4 record and remained ranked in the top 10 in the NCAA Division II Super Regional Poll for most of the campaign. In his remarks to the players and coaches, President Rivers said, “The progress that you made was truly impressive. After a 1-2 start, you really finished the season strong. While the back-to-back homecoming and Fountain City Classic games kept the entire campus in a frenzy, I was ecstatic that we won both games. Nothing made me happier than the way you played against our old nemesis to the south of us (Albany State). We hit a drought against them, but thanks to you, not anymore! Gentlemen, you represented Fort Valley State University well. For that, I am grateful.”
The President’s comments were similar in tone to those made by Wildcat Head Coach Donald Pittman. According to Coach Pittman, “Our mantra this season was to finish strong. If we had played each game like the last one against Albany State, this team would have been undefeated. During our first season, my coaches and I made a few mistakes that we’ve learned from. Going forward, we will be the team to beat not only in the conference but in Division II. It’s a real good feeling knowing that we’ve set a good, solid foundation. I’m ready for next season already. After beating Albany, I started to hear my name called when I walked in various shops and places around Fort Valley. Now I really like walking around town.”
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