For the second time in three years, rain postponed Georgia Southern University’s Day One celebration last Monday night, turning the traditional start of the fall semester into Day Six. After students completed their first week of classes, the event was held at Paulson Stadium on Monday, Aug. 26.
    The annual celebration is a pep rally to kick off the new academic year and teach Georgia Southern traditions to the newest members of Eagle Nation. Special guests included Georgia Southern President Brooks Keel, Student Government Association President Garrett Green, Eagles head football coach Jeff Monken and Athletics Director Tom Kleinlein, along with the Southern Pride Marching Band, Freedom, Gus the mascot and the GSU cheerleaders.
    Tailgating before the event included a performance by country singer/songwriter and 2002 GSU alumnus Eric Lee Beddingfield. He was also an Eagles linebacker, whose football career ended because of an injury.
    Each year, alumni and members of the community are invited to join students, faculty and staff for the celebration.