MSU Unveiled Statues of Legendary Coaches

Legends Plaza: Hurt and Banks Unveiling & Dedication Ceremony

BALTIMORE, Maryland -- Morgan State University unveiled statues of legendary coaches Edward P. Hurt and Earl C. Banks Thursday at Hughes Stadium.

The statues are located between Hurt Gymnasium and MSU's Student Center between the front entrance of Hughes Stadium and the University Student Center, features six-foot bronze statues of Hurt and Banks resting on four-foot pedestals.

Athletic greatness is one of the historical pillars of Morgan State University's worldwide reputation for excellence. The University's new Legends Plaza, inspired by the artistic vision of alumnus George Nock, honors two head coaches who were largely responsible for leading Morgan scholar-athletes to those stellar achievements on the field of play.

Beginning in 1929, Edward P. ("Eddie") Hurt compiled an incredible record of success as Morgan's football, basketball and track and field coach, leading his teams to 33 CIAA championships and producing two Pro Football Hall of Famers and an Olympic gold medal winner. Earl C. ("Papa Bear") Banks succeeded Hurt as Morgan's head football coach in 1960 and added his own chapters to the program's volume on victory. Under Banks, the Bears won five CIAA Championships, went to four bowl games, were unbeaten in three regular seasons and had a 31-game winning streak. They also sent two more NFL players to the Hall of Fame. Both Banks and Hurt placed the highest value on good citizenship and high moral character and demanded that their players meet that standard on and off the field.

Legends Plaza, a nearly 2,000-square-foot enclosure located in the Morgan Commons area. The memorial will also include bronze plaques honoring other Morgan sports legends placed along a 30-foot fence between the two anchoring statues.

MSU Public Relations contributed to this release.