Reflections: Pough looks toward future after 22 years at SC State

Past, present and future gathered Saturday for the SC State Buddy Ball Dinner, Dance & Roast at the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center to honor retired football coach and athletics director Oliver “Buddy” Pough.

In August, Pough announced that the 2023 football season would be his last as head coach at South Carolina State. He finished his career with 151 total victories and is the all-time winningest coach in the history of SC State University.

“(This event) shows that we had some good relationships (at SC State), and enjoyed each other,” Pough said following the event. “We worked our fannies off trying to be successful all these years, and did a lot of good things for the program. Not just wins and losses, it was about the kids and relationships. It was a great run, I had a great time and hopefully the people associated with me enjoyed the ride and had a good time too.”

Former players, opposing coaches and other dignitaries shared stories that highlighted Pough’s character not only as a coach but as a husband and father. Joe Thomas Jr., who played for Pough at SC State before having a successful NFL career, said he is grateful for his former coach.

“(As a freshman) I was a walk-on and I’m just thankful you allowed me to be part of the team,” Thomas said. “(Pough) was not only a great coach but also a great mentor. He was a man that I saw do things the right way.”

Former North Carolina A&T head coach Sam Washington said Pough displayed those traits not only with his players but also with his coaches.

“We often talk about how (Buddy) mentored, influenced and developed players,” Washington said. “But he did the same thing with us coaches. The way he poured his heart out to that group was simply amazing, despite his competitive spirit.”

SC State board Chairman Douglas Gantt talked about Pough’s generosity not only monetarily but also with his time and talent.

“Buddy Pough represents the best of what God promises,” Gannt said. “He’s always been willing to give more than what it takes. I would like to thank him on behalf of the board of trustees for all he’s done for this university.”

Though Pough was the guest of honor, he used his time at the microphone to not only reflect on his 22 seasons at SC State, but to look toward the future.

“I realized that (this night) isn’t just about me but about the university and the athletics program,” Pough said. “The fact that it’s changing from one person to another, so this is as much about (Chennis Berry) as it is about me, we’re looking forward to seeing what we can do to make this thing go.”

Berry, who was hired as the school’s new football coach, was in attendance Saturday along with new athletics director Nathan Cochran.

“I’m excited about those guys,” Pough said. “Gannt, Cochran, Conyers, Berry … you guys are going to get this place rocking and rolling. I’m betting on you guys.”

As he wrapped up his speech, Pough reflected on his 27 years as a head coach at the high school and collegiate level.

“In 27 years you touch a lot of lives … good, bad and otherwise, you never know for sure,” Pough said. “We have some NFL guys but the ones I’m most proud of are the school teachers, coaches — just good men that we produced. This is a special place and it’s been a pleasure to be the head guy here for as long as I’ve been here.

“I don’t know who got the best end of this deal. … Y’all say y’all got a good deal, I can definitely say I got a good one. I have a wonderful opportunity to look forward and continue to support South Carolina State. Bye.”