Statesboro is gearing up for the much-anticipated return of the Georgia Grown Bowl, as announced by Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper. Set for a 7:00 PM start on October 18 at the Allen E. Paulson Stadium, the match-up between Georgia State University and Georgia Southern University isn't just a game – it's a nod to the state's top industry, agriculture. Fans can expect a full day of activities, including a pre-game farmers market that begins at 3:00 PM, featuring local foods and vendors from across Georgia.
In a union of sports and agriculture, the Georgia Grown Bowl fosters a sense of community across an industry that contributes over $91.4 billion to Georgia's economy each year. "We’re thrilled to once again partner with Georgia State and Georgia Southern to feature one of our state’s great rivalry games in the second annual Georgia Grown Bowl," Harper stated on the Georgia Department of Agriculture website. The event showcases how athletic competition and agricultural production can be part of the same conversation, emphasizing their shared contribution to the state's well-being.
The celebration will not be limited to the field of play. Georgia Grown branding will be visible throughout the stadium, with LED boards, jumbotron segments, and other promotional materials highlighting the symbiosis of agriculture and college football. Chris Davis, the Director of Athletics at Georgia Southern University, acknowledged the initiative, saying on the Department of Agriculture website, "Agriculture is the heartbeat of South Georgia; it fuels our economy, strengthens our communities, and reflects the work ethic and pride that define this region."
Support for the event goes beyond the boundaries of the stadium, with stakeholders highlighting the importance of farming to the state's identity and economy. Charlie Cobb, Georgia State Athletics Director, expressed his appreciation for the partnership with the Department of Agriculture, noting Harper's initiative in promoting farming. "We hope our rivalry with Georgia Southern will provide great competition and a means for farming families across Georgia to know we appreciate them," Cobb told the Department of Agriculture.
For those eager to witness the action up close, tickets are available through the respective universities' ticketing platforms. Whether it's to cheer on the teams or to delve into Georgia's agricultural scene, attendees are in for a day filled with spirit, competition, and local pride.
