Coach Richt makes a motivating promise

Georgia coach Mark Richt made a promise to Troup offensive lineman Chris Burnette: If you’re the valedictorian, then I’ll be at your graduation to hear your speech.

“Richt said he was proud of me, and if it happens, he’ll be there,” Burnette said. “I was honored he said that to me, especially with all the coaching responsibilities he has.”

“That would cool to have Coach Richt at graduation. He is like a celebrity, and it would be a wild atmosphere with him there.”

With Coach Richt’s blessing, Chris decided against enrolling early at Georgia so he could stay at Troup to compete for the No. 1 academic honor. Burnette has a 5.012 GPA and slight lead over two others in the valedictorian race. He has made straight A’s since kindergarten. I think he is going to be a great addition to the Offensive line and perform at a high level both on the field and in the classroom.

“I was already very motivated, but Coach Richt saying that gives me even more,” Burnette said. Coach Richt told Burnette he has never recruited a valedictorian during his coaching career.

Welcome to the Dawg nation, Chris!