MGCCC creates Mississippi Bowl set for Dec. 2008

On Dec. 7, 2008 the Mississippi Gulf Coast will feel the excitement of the state’s community and junior college football as the first-ever Mississippi Bowl takes place on the Mississippi Gulf Coast in Harrison County. South Mississippi will play host as one of the state’s top community/junior college teams goes up against another selected national team in the state’s only community college bowl game. Three fun-filled days of local entertainment, food, and football will welcome the teams and their families, friends, and special guests.

“The purpose of the Mississippi Bowl is to host the state championship team from Mississippi and the highest nationally ranked available team from across the nation,” said Chris Calcote, Gulf Coast athletic director. “We think the Coast is a perfect venue for this type of event. Each year, our state has some of the best community and junior college teams in the country, so what better way to showcase their talents than through this game.”

In 2007, Gulf Coast went 12-0 and was named NJCAA Co-National Champions. The Bulldogs defeated Kilgore College (Texas) 62-28 in the C.H.A.M.P.S Heart of Texas Bowl Dec. 1, 2007 in Copperas Cove, Texas. Gulf Coast also defeated Jones 20-17 in the MACJC State Championship game Nov. 10, 2007. Jones’ Bobcats finished the season 9-2 and ranked No. 5 in the nation. However, the Bobcats were not invited to a bowl game, despite losing both games to Gulf Coast by a combined total of nine points. In 2006, Gulf Coast was also left out of the post-season despite going 7-2 and finishing the season ranked No. 8 in the nation.

Organizers hope the Mississippi Bowl will give the state’s community and junior college teams the proper reward for an outstanding season.

“As the Mississippi Bowl gains popularity with community colleges, it is likely to become host to the NJCAA’S National Championship Game,” said Dr. Willis Lott, Gulf Coast president. “We’re actively looking for corporate sponsors to partner with us and play an important role in welcoming national teams, administration, family, friends, and guests to the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”

All revenues of this association are for the benefit of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Foundation and student scholarships. The Mississippi Bowl payout for each team will be $10,000, compared to the $7,500 per-team payout from other bowl organizations.