Statesboro, Georgia, September 29, 2025
News Summary
Georgia Southern University has unveiled a life-size bronze statue titled ‘Freedom to Soar’ at Allen E. Paulson Stadium, honoring its beloved bald eagle mascot, Freedom. The impressive statue, designed by students and faculty, features an eight-foot wingspan and weighs 385 pounds, mounted on a 6,000-pound pedestal. Freedom, who passed away at 21, was a cherished symbol of strength and pride for the university community. The unveiling included speeches and collectible items to support the Center for Wildlife Education.
Georgia Southern University Honors Beloved Mascot with Life-Size Bronze Statue
Statesboro, Georgia – On September 12, 2025, Georgia Southern University celebrated a heartwarming event as it unveiled a stunning life-size bronze statue titled Freedom to Soar at Allen E. Paulson Stadium. This beautiful tribute honors the university’s cherished bald eagle mascot, Freedom, who passed away at the age of 21 on March 29, 2025.
Freedom has a special place in the hearts of many. Rescued as a nestling from Maitland, Florida, the eagle had a permanent beak injury that sadly kept him from being released back into the wild. Arriving at Georgia Southern in 2004, Freedom quickly became a powerful symbol embodying strength, pride, and the True Blue spirit of Eagle Nation.
The newly unveiled sculpture is truly a sight to behold, boasting a wingspan of approximately eight feet and weighing in at an impressive 385 pounds. The statue sits atop a custom cast and polished concrete pedestal that weighs a hefty 6,000 pounds, firmly anchoring the artwork in place.
Designed with creativity, the plinth reflects an image of Freedom soaring over the stadium, echoing the unique terracing of the seating area inside. This captivating design is a testament to the artistic vision and dedication put into the project by an eclectic team of students, faculty, and staff who began the restoration and preparation work in April 2025.
Some of the key contributors included Master of Fine Arts student Tanner Maxey, Associate Professor Matt Mogle, and studio technician Jason McCoy. Additionally, Steve Hein, the executive director of the Center for Wildlife Education, lent his expertise throughout the project, ensuring a fitting homage to Freedom’s legacy.
The landscape and installation process was skillfully managed by Georgia Southern’s Division of Facilities Planning, Design and Construction, who collaborated with Dabbs Williams General Contractors to create a scenic setting for the statue.
Attention to detail is evident in the statue, which is intricately designed down to the number of feathers along the edges of Freedom’s wings. The dedication ceremony featured speeches from important attendees, including Georgia Southern’s President and a State Senator, both recognizing Freedom’s significance and impact within the community.
Standing proudly alongside the Erk Russell statue, this new installation unites two enduring symbols of Eagles football at the Gene Bishop Field House. The project was made possible through generous donations from community members, including Mitch and Antonia Kincaid, as well as support from the university’s staff and contractors.
The unveiling ceremony was a joyous occasion for everyone involved, concluding with the distribution of Freedom collectible pins and limited-edition stadium mugs. Proceeds from these items will help benefit the Center for Wildlife Education and the Lamar Q. Ball Jr. Raptor Center, further preserving Freedom’s legacy.
As a symbol of the collective effort and affection of the Georgia Southern community, this statue invites all to carry forward Freedom’s inspiring memory. Attendees were encouraged to keep his story alive through various tangible keepsakes that promote his incredible legacy for generations to come.
FAQs
When was the statue of Freedom unveiled?
The statue was unveiled on September 12, 2025.
What is the significance of the statue?
The statue honors Freedom, the university’s beloved bald eagle mascot, who passed away on March 29, 2025, at the age of 21.
What are the specifications of the statue?
The sculpture has a wingspan of approximately eight feet and weighs 385 pounds. The pedestal it sits on weighs 6,000 pounds.
Who contributed to the project?
Key contributors included Master of Fine Arts student Tanner Maxey, Associate Professor Matt Mogle, and studio technician Jason McCoy, along with consultation from Steve Hein.
What was distributed during the ceremony?
Attendees received Freedom collectible pins and limited-edition stadium mugs, with proceeds benefiting the Center for Wildlife Education and the Lamar Q. Ball Jr. Raptor Center.
Key Features of Freedom Statue Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Unveiling Date | September 12, 2025 |
| Wingspan | Approximately 8 feet |
| Statue Weight | 385 pounds |
| Pedestal Weight | 6,000 pounds |
| Contributors | Tanner Maxey, Matt Mogle, Jason McCoy, Steve Hein |
| Proceeds Benefit | Center for Wildlife Education, Lamar Q. Ball Jr. Raptor Center |
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Additional Resources
- Grice Connect: Freedom to Soar Unveiled
- Wikipedia: Georgia Southern Eagles
- Georgia Southern Athletics: Eagles Drop Sun Belt Opener
- Google Search: Georgia Southern University
- Georgia Southern Athletics: Statue Unveiling of Freedom
- Google Scholar: Georgia Southern University
- WSAV: Questions Linger for Georgia Southern
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
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