The bill, S. 928, is a Senate Resolution introduced to recognize and honor the "Great Eight" football players from South Carolina State University for their significant contributions to collegiate athletics and their lasting impact on the state's history. The resolution highlights the achievements of these eight athletes—John Alford, Edwin Bailey, Charlie Brown, Robert Geathers, William Judson, Angelo King, Chris Ragland, and Leroy Robinson—who excelled during a time when African American student-athletes faced systemic barriers. Their legacy is celebrated not only for their athletic prowess but also for their roles as symbols of leadership and resilience within the community.
Additionally, the resolution connects the legacy of the "Great Eight" to the cultural heritage of the Gullah Geechee people, emphasizing the importance of recognizing historically overlooked contributions to South Carolina's cultural fabric. The resolution culminates in a formal acknowledgment by the South Carolina Senate, expressing appreciation for the dedication of the "Great Eight" and their influence on the state. A copy of the resolution will be presented to each member of the "Great Eight" as a token of recognition.