JACKSONVILLE, Ala. — Jacksonville State University (Jax State) is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the Loring and Debbie White Football Complex, a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as the new home for Gamecock football. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on Saturday, July 27, 2024, marks a significant milestone in the university’s commitment to athletic excellence and the development of its student-athletes.
Loring and Debbie White have been longtime supporters of Jacksonville State University and Gamecock Football. Loring, a native of Prattville, Alabama came to Jax State as a freshman member of the football team in the fall of 1974 and spent four years with the Gamecocks before graduating in 1978 with a bachelor’s degree in education.
Loring White expressed his motivations behind the donation, stating, “We’ve been very blessed, and we like to give back when the opportunity is there. It’s an honor to have your name put up there, but that’s not why we do it. I’m more interested in each one of those current players seeing and hearing about someone who’s been in their shoes. And if I can go to Jacksonville State, spend four years, get an education, and come out of there and do what I’ve done, they surely should be able to do the same thing.”
The Loring and Debbie White Football Complex boasts cutting-edge amenities, including administrative offices, a spacious weight room, modern locker rooms, team meeting spaces, and a fully equipped sports medicine center. Designed to enhance the overall experience for student-athletes, the facility aims to support their physical, mental, and academic well-being.
Dr. Don Killingsworth, President of Jacksonville State University, highlighted the enduring impact of the Whites’ contributions, saying, “Loring’s tenacity, dedication, and work ethic, which he demonstrated as a student-athlete here at Jax State, have continued to guide him throughout his career. We are immensely grateful that his steadfast dedication to his alma mater has never wavered.”
The event officially opened the Loring and Debbie White Football Complex just two days before the start of the preseason. The 2024 Jax State football toured the facility for the first time on Sunday before commencing practice on Monday morning.
Athletics Director Greg Seitz remarked on the significance of the new facility: “This complex represents a new era for Jax State football. The Loring and Debbie White Football Complex is a game-changer for our program. It provides our players with the resources they need to train at the highest level and prepare for competition. We are grateful for the Whites’ unwavering support and commitment to our team.”
For more information about the Loring and Debbie White Football Complex and Jax State athletics, please visit jaxstatesports.com.
