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Monday, Nov. 23, 2009

Hatcher makes statement on firing

Former Georgia Southern head football coach and Macon native Chris Hatcher released the following statement Monday about his dismissal from the Eagles’ program Saturday:

“I was informed after our win on Saturday that I would no longer be the Head Coach at Georgia Southern. I am sad and disappointed, but have no regrets. I took this job with excitement and determination. We set out to rebuild a program and were well on our way.

“This is an excellent University and I am proud to have had an opportunity to be a part of it. The fan support and passion here is second to none. Statesboro is an excellent place to live and raise a family. We have some great friends and great memories from our time at Georgia Southern and they will stay with us always.

“We came here with a plan and, as a staff, we worked tirelessly to execute that plan. I am proud that we leave the Georgia Southern football program in better shape than we found it when we got here.

“I feel for our seniors. They have given everything they have for Georgia Southern. They laid it all on the line. I hate for them to leave with this in their hearts.

“I feel for the younger players. We sold them on a vision. We brought in three excellent signing classes. These are quality young men who will succeed.

“I feel for our fans. I think the fans know that it takes more than a couple of years to rebuild a program. The fans want results, but I truly believe they knew they were just around the corner.

“I may not understand the rationale behind the decision to let this staff go. I am clear on this though: I appreciate the opportunity to have coached here and I sincerely wish the members of the team nothing but success in the future.

“Tough times don’t last but tough people do. Chris Hatcher is as tough as it gets. I will be back on the sidelines soon and I hope Georgia Southern fans root as hard for me as I will be rooting for them.”