More than 2,000 Richmond County fifth graders packed Christenberry Fieldhouse on Tuesday morning for Augusta University’s annual Richmond County Education Day. The students created one of the loudest and most energetic atmospheres for the Augusta University men’s basketball team as they defeated Paine College 73-57.
An early look into college life
Richmond County School System Athletic Director Scott McClintock said the event gives students an important early look at college life.
“There’s a lot of excitement out there, and a lot of these kids have never been to a college basketball game,” McClintock said. “They get the opportunity to come to a college campus. This may be the only time they get to come to a college campus.”
He said his favorite part each year is watching students fully immerse themselves in the game-day environment.
“Just the excitement on the kids’ faces,” he said when talking about his favorite part of the event. “There’s nonstop cheering, and AU does such a great job of having the kids involved in the game.”
A memorable experience for every fifth grader
McClintock said the one thing he hopes the students take away from the event is the memory of experiencing something new.
“These are all of our fifth graders in the district… they all get the opportunity to come do something new,” he said. “Just being here with their friends, having a great time, and experiencing this arena.”
A growing partnership
Augusta University Director of Athletics Ryan Erlacher said the partnership with Richmond County continues to strengthen and remains one of the program’s most meaningful community traditions.
“Each year, our athletics program looks forward to hosting the Richmond County Education Day game,” Erlacher said. “The excitement, energy, and environment are electric, and the fifth graders in Richmond County are beyond fun to be around.”
He said the collaboration reflects AU’s commitment to connecting with the community.
“The partnership between Richmond County Education and Augusta University is one our program and student-athletes take great pride in,” Erlacher said. “This event continues to grow and offer more opportunities for local students to be exposed to life on a college campus, student engagement, and supporting their local team.”
Erlacher added that the response from schools remains overwhelmingly positive.
“The feedback from the students, faculty, and staff has been phenomenal,” he said. “We are incredibly grateful to all the teachers, staff, and administrators in Richmond County who play a vital role in making this event such a memorable experience for so many.”
Jaguars defeat Paine College 73–57
The Jaguars used a strong second half to pull away. After a shaky first half, the Jags tightened their defense up and took better shots on offense. With halftime adjustments, Augusta University would come back after trailing by double digits. They would close out the afternoon defeating Paine College 73-57.
