Chris Hatcher

Former Head Coach

Georgia Southern University

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.