Warner Robins Day in Macon

MACON, Ga. — On Aug. 27, the City of Perry had the opportunity to participate in one of America’s most popular sports, and last weekend, the City of Warner Robins had the chance to do the same.

On Sept. 17, Mercer University held “Warner Robins Day” at Five Star Stadium in Macon, the second showing in a series of community partnerships at home games.

Multiple groups from the city participated in ceremonies, such as the national anthem and the halftime show. Veterans High School sent their marching band and cheerleaders to the game as well.

Mayor LaRhonda Patrick had the honor of tossing the coin. She said this was her first Mercer game attending, among many firsts that day for the Mayor and her family.

“It was a neat experience. I had never been on a college football field before, and I had my husband and my son with me, so it was a family affair. Everyone was so kind. The entire Mercer athletic team was amazing. I’m just so thankful to have had the opportunity to experience that on Warner Robins day,” Patrick said.

After the coin toss, the Mayor had a gift for the head coach and head referee.

“I coined the head referee. So I gave him one of our city coins and a handshake,” Patrick said. “After I exited the field so they could start the game, I found the head coach for Mercer Bears and I also coined him with the Warner Robins official coin. That felt really good to thank them both and to give them a little token from the City of Warner Robins.”

Events like Warner Robins Day signify a larger partnership within the Middle Georgia area, as Patrick explained: “It shows how connected to the areas that surround us. I’m big on supporting and advancing our entire region, not just in the city limits of Warner Robins. Interacting with [Macon] and Mercer University shows that even though we’re separate, we’re still part of the same. I like opportunities like that.”

Mercer University took the opportunity to win against The Citadel. After no score in the first half from either team, Mercer quarterback Fred Payton connected with wide receiver Ty James for two touchdown scores in the third quarter.

With just under three minutes left in the game, Mercer scored again, this time, on a field goal from kicker Devin Folser.

Mercer took the win, 17-0. Their next home game will be against Western Carolina University on Saturday, Oct. 8 at 4 p.m.

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