HATTIESBURG, Miss. - On September 3, 2026, the Southern Miss football team made a special visit to the DuBard School in Hattiesburg, an event that highlighted the strong community ties between the university and the local area. This annual event, known as Black and Gold Day, allows the football team and coaches to interact with students, sharing enthusiasm for the upcoming season.
Dr. Alison Webster, the director of the DuBard School for Language Disorders, explained the significance of the event. "Black and Gold Day is our traditional day of inviting the football team and coaches over to experience what it's like to be in our school and learn from our students, as well as the smallest Eagles on campus, to be able to share their excitement for the upcoming first home game," she stated. This initiative not only fosters school spirit but also strengthens the bond between the students and the athletes.
Southern Miss head football coach Blake Anderson emphasized the importance of community engagement, noting how the children at DuBard look up to the players. "These kids are the ones that are looking, wearing their jersey, buying their jerseys, taking pictures. You want to be just like them one day. It’s great to give back to the community that gives to us number one," he remarked. Anderson's personal connection to the cause is evident, as he has children who have faced challenges similar to those experienced by students at DuBard.
In his comments, Anderson shared, "I have kids of my own. We’ve had reading disabilities. We’ve had speech delays. This is all especially important for me, because they’re right down the road. They’re part of the fabric of who we are. And I think the success stories just are awesome to hear down the road. And we’ve seen some of them even in and around our program at times." His heartfelt remarks underline the commitment of the Southern Miss football program to support local initiatives and inspire young students.
The visit comes just two days before the Golden Eagles kick off their season at home against Alcorn State on September 5, 2026. This game marks an important moment for the team, as they aim to build momentum for the season ahead. The excitement generated from events like Black and Gold Day can serve as a motivational boost for the players as they prepare for their first matchup.
Overall, the interaction between the Southern Miss football team and the DuBard School exemplifies the spirit of community involvement that is crucial in college athletics. As the Golden Eagles gear up for their season, their engagement with local schools reinforces the importance of supporting youth and fostering a positive environment for all students.
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