The Florida State Seminoles made sure to honor their late former coach Bobby Bowden before they opened the season against Notre Dame on Sunday.
In a rather touching tribute for the legendary figure, the Florida State University unveiled a painting of Bowden created by artist Steve Skipper. The said painting showed the former football coach looking in the distance thinking, while the background showcased several moments from his coaching career.
As a heartwarming gesture, Skipper also included an image of Bowden and his wife, Ann, in the bottom left corner of the painting. Ann and daughter Ginger Madden were present to witness the presentation of the painting.
Artist Steve Skipper unveils a painting he was commissioned to create by legendary head coach Bobby Bowden and his family. Ann Bowden and daughter Ginger Bowden Madden are looking on. pic.twitter.com/D34SVXsNAx
— Warchant.com (@Warchant) September 5, 2021
The tributes didn't stop there, of course. Before the game against Notre Dame, Florida State revealed their new design for Doak Campbell Stadium which honors Bobby Bowden.
At the center of the FSU field were his name and logo highlighted by the coach's signature hat.
Florida State honoring their late great coach Bobby Bowden tonight. pic.twitter.com/ubCtC8AMSa
— Darren Rovell (@darrenrovell) September 5, 2021
It’s Bobby Bowden night in Tallahassee. A legend whose statue can actually remain standing. Gone less than a month ago. You guys gonna bet against FSU on Bobby Bowden Day? Not me, @PicksCentral. FSU +7.5. pic.twitter.com/T5bUiDk0B6
— Brandon Walker (@BFW) September 5, 2021
Bobby Bowden passed away last August at the age of 91. As The New York Times reported, his health has suffered greatly since contracting COVID-19 in 2020. He also apparently endured pancreatic cancer before his shocking passing.
While he is gone, though, the College Football Hall of Famer will always be remembered for his contributions to the game and to Florida State. During his time coaching the FSU Seminoles, he recorded 315 wins along with 12 ACC titles and two national championships. Simply put, he was the catalyst that turned the program into a powerful team.
Bowden stepped down as FSU coach in 2009 after 34 years of leading the team.
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