COLUMBUS — “A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they shall never sit.”
This Greek proverb was recited by Columbus Soccer Organization director Tom Velek ahead of kickoff of the new recreational season Tuesday. The season was preceded by a dedication ceremony and the unveiling of a sign in honor of the late Roger Short, for whom the soccer complex is named.
Short spent many years working with the Lowndes County Recreation Authority, serving as director for 12 years until his retirement in 2014, and then as director for Lowndes County recreation from 2017 until his death in 2022.
As director, Short spearheaded many projects, including the soon-to-open Lowndes County Sportsplex on Highway 82 and the eponymous Roger Short Soccer Complex, where the sign was dedicated in his honor.
“He was a huge part of the program, and a huge part of bringing this complex to Columbus,” CSO board member Jessica Tackett said of Short. “This is a really big deal for the children here, so to see all of this come to fruition and to dedicate this complex that he had such a big part in building is really emotional.”
The complex is set to host yet another season of growth for Columbus rec soccer, with more than 400 children signed up to play and many more set to play in competitive teams for the area’s clubs. It’s a complex that serves the community well, and one which now honors the man who helped build it.
“You just have to look around and see the hundreds of kids involved in soccer and all other kinds of sports to know that Roger Short spent his entire adult life being an advocate for all kinds of recreation,” county administrator Jay Fisher said. “This is a testament to that for generations who come around, who may not have known Roger, but know they’re playing at the Roger Short Soccer Complex.”
Roger was survived by his wife Pamela, who, along with many other family members, was present at the ceremony. Pamela made a statement at the dedication expressing her thanks for the honor of Roger and his legacy.
“This gesture means more to me and my family than words can adequately convey,” Pamela said of the dedication ceremony honoring her late husband. “It is a beautiful tribute to his passion for soccer and his dedication to our community. Your thoughtfulness in recognizing his contributions is deeply appreciated, and it brings us comfort to know that his memory will live on through this meaningful dedication.”
Pamela also thanked the Lowndes County Board of Supervisors and Recreation Department for their decision to rename the complex, and had just one more thing to say before the games begin.
“Play ball!”
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