ATHENS, Ga. — Claude Felton, a legendary UGA communications pro who has spent nearly half a century as a pivotal figure behind the scenes for the Bulldogs, will be retiring effective tomorrow, Jan. 31.
The University of Georgia Athletic Association made the announcement on Tuesday. Felton first started with UGA in 1979, was most recently a senior associate athletic director and for many years was the school's sports communication director.
A member of both the College Sports Information Directors of America Hall of Fame and a 2024 inductee into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, Felton "mentored countless individuals and has become a leader in college athletics" over the years, an Athletic Association release stated.
“Lots of time has gone by and some unbelievable experiences and memories have come my way,” Felton said in a statement. “I’ve worked with some terrific presidents, athletic directors, some of the greatest coaches and athletes in the history of collegiate sports, and legendary media on all levels from national writers and network television to radio stations and weekly newspapers around the state. I’ve been blessed with the greatest group of full-time staff members, graduate assistants, and undergrad students I could have imagined who have done remarkable work and are responsible for always somehow making me look good.”
The school's athletic director, Josh Brooks, described Felton in a statement as "one of the most influential figures in the history of Georgia Athletics."
“His honesty, humility, attention to detail and congenial spirit have elevated all of our athletic programs throughout his 45-year association with the Bulldogs," Brooks said. "I know his mentors Dan Magill and Vince Dooley would say ‘job well done,’ as they look back on Claude’s outstanding career. He has meant so much to me and so many others, and we wish him all the best during this next phase of his life.”
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