Dawgs Put Finishing Touches on G-Day Preparations

UGA Sports Communictions


The Dawgs wrapped up final preparations for Saturday’s G-Day Game under clear skies Thursday afternoon on the Georgia campus.

Thursday’s workout was the final practice before the upcoming G-Day Game, which is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. ET at Sanford Stadium. According to head coach Kirby Smart, it was a good way to end the month-long spring practice period.

“I thought the guys had good focus,” Smart said. “We were able to go over a couple of different opponents we have coming in next year to generate some interest. They like doing that. It kind of brings a spark to their eyes when you get to work on another opponent and not just each other. Then, we divided up the teams and had a good practice.”

Saturday’s game presents an opportunity for the Dawgs to play in front of a large crowd for the first time since last season or for the first time in their careers for some newcomers. Smart echoed the importance of having a full stadium to give the players a glimpse of a real game environment.

“I want to evaluate the players.” Smart added. “ I want them to play in a big time atmosphere. I think the more butterflies they have (on Saturday) the less they have the next time. We have a lot of guys who will be playing — not for the first time — but they will be playing significant roles for the first time, so the more experience they get that’s my focus and intent. I want it to be enjoyable. I want it to be entertaining. I want the fans to come back, but I want to put a good product at there.”

Gates will open at 1 p.m. on Saturday and admission to G-Day is free. The UGA Athletic Association will be implementing it's "clear bag" policy for the game.

The day's activities will begin with a flag football game among alumni lettermen from 1:15-2:15.

With expected high demand and temporarily reduced seating due to the construction on the new West End Zone complex, the UGA Athletic Association will be implementing a pass system. Upon entrance, each fan will receive a commemorative pass with a seating section. The UGAAA asks that each fan sits in this section to help manage what is expected to be a near-capacity crowd. Gates 2-9 will be open as usual. However, Gate 10 (gate under the bridge next to the Tate Center) will be closed due to construction. To help reduce congestion and further improve ingress flow, please enter on the side of the stadium where each fan's preferred seating location would be. Additional pass/entry questions can be directed to facilitysupport@sports.uga.edu.