Just days from now, the University of Georgia will be the center of focus for three of the most popular events of the Olympic Games. Stegeman Coliseum will be the site of the preliminary rounds for men's and women's volleyball and the medals competition for rhythmic gymnastics. Sanford Stadium will host the medals events for men's and women's soccer. Several hundred thousand visitors are expected to visit the campus for the Games, and as many as 3.5 billion people are projected to watch the televised matches. The opportunity to host these exciting venues will showcase the university to the world.

The economic and cultural impact of the Olympic Games on the university and the Athens community will be significant. Economic forecasters in the university's Selig Center for Economic Growth have estimated a short-term economic impact for the entire state in excess of $5.1 billion, and, as a major venue site, the Athens community will realize a substantial share of this benefit. Statewide, new doors will open for foreign markets, and increased investments and visitor spending will bolster and expand businesses.

The international exposure afforded the campus during this time is certain to produce inquiries about the university and could lead to additional exchange programs for students and faculty with overseas universities. This will greatly assist the many international programs at the university and will give it a tremendous competitive advantage over other universities seeking global exposure.

The opportunity to host Olympic competitions is rare, indeed, and the university has undertaken careful planning to make these events enjoyable and successful. We extend a special welcome to our Olympic guests, and we are anxious to ensure that they carry home happy memories of their visit to the University of Georgia and to the Athens area.

Charles B. Knapp
President
The University of Georgia

It seems only a short time ago that International Olympic Committee President Juan Antonio Samaranch made that now famous announcement: "The International Olympic Committee awards the 1996 Olympic Games . . . to the city of . . . At-lanta."

It has been six years since those words were heard around the world. Little did we really understand at the time what that would mean to Atlanta, to the state of Georgia, the city of Athens and most especially to those of us at the University of Georgia.

To our many thousands of visitors who will be on our campus during the Games, a hearty welcome. We are anxious for the interaction, the cultural exchange and the opportunity to serve as a host for the world's most magnificent sporting event.

Little did we dream the extent to which our university would be participating in this truly magnificent event. With three Olympic sports being played on our campus, we are the largest venue outside the city of Atlanta. All those members of our university community can share in the pride of what we have accomplished, but also the anticipation of what we are about to experience.

To all, a sincere wish that you will find your own special feeling and special meaning of what the Olympic experience is all about.

Vincent J. Dooley
Athletic Director
The University of Georgia