Bulldogs & Buddies:
Game Day Magic at UGA with the Georgia Bulldogs
There’s something electric about an SEC football game day. As they say—if you know, you know. The University of Georgia Bulldogs, consistently ranked among the nation’s top college football programs, has a loyal fan base that transforms every home game into a celebration.
For the last 12 years, the UGA football program has partnered with esp (Extra Special People) to bring that same game-day excitement to many who will never get to experience the real thing. The partnership began in 2013 under Coach Mark Richt with a simple cookout and has grown into what many participants now call “the best day ever.”
UGA football goes all out to make Bulldogs & Buddies a true VIP experience. The day kicks off with a spirited pep rally—cheerleaders, the dance team, Hairy Dawg, and the pep band filling the air with energy and school pride.
“We sign up for this event the moment it becomes available,” shared a group of UGA cheerleaders. “It’s a highlight of our season—we love being part of it.”
Participants enjoy autographs, photos, and plenty of laughter with their esp buddies. Much like a campus tailgate, the atmosphere feels like a homecoming—smiles, hugs, and joyful reunions all around. Many volunteers are UGA students, which adds to the authenticity of the college game-day experience.
And if the day ended after the band played the fight song, it would already be unforgettable. But Georgia football takes it even further. Coach Kirby Smart and his team are deeply committed to making the experience extraordinary for these super fans.
“I think it's really valuable for the players, many of them have never been asked to give back. This is one of those opportunities where our guys feel like they’re part of a greater community.”
After running sprints, the players invite participants to rush the field—a thrilling moment as fans of all abilities race toward their favorite Dawgs. The young men in their gear look like Titans; it could be intimidating, but for their gentle and kind demeanor. Kneeling to meet fans eye-to-eye, their smiles reveal hearts as big as their reputations.
Jaden Harris, a recent transfer, said he was grateful to be part of Bulldogs & Buddies. “Volunteering brings me joy,” he shared—and it showed in every interaction. Coach Smart, along with stars Gunner Stockton and Lawson Luckie, stood surrounded by a sea of esp fans, giving each person their full attention as they signed autographs and posed for photos.
Laura Hope Whitaker, esp CEO and proud UGA alum, reflected on the meaning behind the day:
“From our perspective, it’s a midseason heart reset—a reminder of what really matters. Regardless of how the Bulldogs perform or what they’re ranked, the 200 individuals we bring show up with unfiltered love, swag, and big cheers.”
Laura recalled one year when former quarterback Aaron Murray participated the day after a tough loss. She offered to postpone, but he refused.
“I need this now more than the kids do,” he told her.
It was a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of Bulldogs & Buddies – a day designed to give joy to esp participants that, in turn, fills every volunteer’s heart just as full.
Want to get involved with esp?
You can make a difference across all esp locations or right in your community. Click HERE to learn how.
