Mississippi plans bowl game
JUNIOR COLLEGE FOOTBALL
From special reports

On Dec. 7, 2008, Kilgore College and other junior college football programs will have another option, another bowl game with which to conclude their season, as the Mississippi Bowl takes place on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

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 in the CHAMPS Heart of Texas Bowl on Dec. 1 in Copperas Cove, KC's second straight trip to that bowl game. The Rangers had a good season under first-year head coach J.J. Eckert, making it to the Southwest Junior College Football Conference championship game.

Organizers hope the Mississippi Bowl will give 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.

The closest bowl nearby is the Pilgrim's Pride Bowl, located in Mount Pleasant. KC played in the first-ever Pilgrim's Pride Bowl in December, 2004.

For information on possible sponsorships, contact Misty Maaya, Gulf Coast director of Institutional Relations at (601) 928-6236, or e-mail her at misty.maaya@mgccc.edu.