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The Savannah Country Day football program proudly upholds the Stuart Sligh Jr. Tradition, established in memory of Stuart Sligh Jr., who tragically lost his life in a car accident in 2012. On Thursday, August 8, the Savannah Country Day football program had the honor of hosting Stuart Sligh Sr. on campus. He shared the inspiring story of his son, Stuart "Stu" Sligh Jr. '14, with the varsity football team and coaches as announced on Savannah Country Day's Instagram social media page.

This visit continues the Hornet football program's tradition of honoring and remembering Stu, whose life was defined by kindness and sportsmanship. His legacy is honored through the retirement of his jersey number, #5, and a football player is chosen to wear #5 for the season that respresents Stu's values. Barton Mixon, a senior at Hornet, has been chosen to wear this prestigious jersey for the second consecutive year.

Photo (l-r): Head Coach Roc Batten, Bart Mixon, Stuart Sligh Sr.

In 2021, former SCDS head football coach John Mohring sought to pay tribute to Stuart by awarding the #5 jersey to a Hornet football player who exemplified Stu's five core values: Faith, Family, Character, Class, and Commitment. Additionally, the player had to meet specific football criteria, including attending 90% of summer workouts, participating in a summer football camp, demonstrating leadership recognized by the coaching staff, earning a place on the academic honor roll, and being named to the all-region football team.

Stu Sligh Jr., was an honor student, a dedicated football and baseball player, and an avid outdoorsman. His academic achievements, leadership, commitment, and character left a lasting impact on the SCDS community. His #5 jersey was retired in recognition of his contributions.

Though Stu's #5 jersey remains retired, Coach Roc Batten proudly announced Barton Mixon, Class of '25, as the player chosen to represent #5 on the field this season. Mixon embodies the values Stu lived by. The entire SCDS football team was present to celebrate Stu's lasting influence and the values that continue to inspire our team.

PHOTO CREDIT: Savannah Country Day School Athletic Department Instagram website.

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