Special statue honoring Georgia Southern’s late mascot Freedom

STATESBORO, Ga. (WTOC) - A new statue is celebrating the life and legacy of a beloved mascot.

Following the passing of the live bald eagle mascot – the new statue is now on display for fans entering Paulson stadium at Georgia Southern.

Since the beloved bald eagle mascot’s passing in March, a special statue was patiently being built.

Hundreds of students, alumni, and people from the Statesboro Community came out to celebrate the unveiling of Freedom.

The mascot that resembled the spirit of Eagle Nation.

“Every time we saw him at the football games it was super fun. We love Steve and we love Freedom,” said Sophia Perry, GSU cheerleader.

Many in attendance came to show their love and support for Steve Hein.

Freedom’s handler for 21 years.

“It makes you feel good,” said Hein. “It makes you feel like you did something over those 21 years and I’m very proud of it. I’m very touched.”

Hein not only escorted Freedom to his flight every football game but worked with Freedom every day at the Wildlife Center on campus.

Now, he says he is happy to see his special connection to an eagle, has made this big of an impact.

“The attendance here and the people who are showing up is just filling me up,” said Hein. “I mean it’s a beautiful thing and more than anything else to be accepted and beloved as Freedom was.”

The statue now proudly stands at the entrance of Paulson stadium greeting fans through the gates.