Ad Disclosure
Georgia announces passing of Frank ‘Sonny’ Seiler, patriarch of ‘Uga’ mascots
Published:
Georgia football announced the passing of Frank “Sonny” Seiler on Monday. Seiler was the patriarch of the legendary line of “Uga” mascots.
We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Frank W. “Sonny” Seiler, the patriarch of the long line of Georgia Bulldog mascots known as “Uga.”
Our thoughts go out to the Seiler family during this time.
#DGD pic.twitter.com/frgsHPuSai— Georgia Bulldogs (@UGAAthletics) August 29, 2023
Seiler and his wife started the mascot tradition by bringing their English Bulldog to the opening game of 1956. Since then, Seiler and his family have raised a continual line of mascots for Georgia, including the present mascot “Uga XI.”
“I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Seiler family on behalf of the entire Bulldog Nation,” UGA President Jere W. Morehead said in a statement. “Sonny’s contributions to the University of Georgia as a student and alumnus were innumerable, and his loyalty to his alma mater was unmatched. His legacy will live on forever in the history and traditions of this great institution.”
Seiler was a Georgia graduate and a distinguished attorney in Savannah. Among many honors, the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame presented Seiler with the Erk Russell Spirit Award, which recognizes contributions to sport that mirror the enthusiasm that Russell brought to coaching football.
Seiler was 90 years old.
Bryce Lazenby covers college football for Saturday Down South. A Nashville native, his previous stops include FanSided, Dimers, and The Leaf-Chronicle.
