Baldwin County School District Unveils Anderson Bentley Jr. Track Signage at Braves Stadium

The Baldwin County School District officially revealed the new Anderson Bentley Jr. Track

signage at Braves Stadium during a packed Track Meet on Friday, March 14th. This long-anticipated event celebrated the life and legacy of legendary coach Anderson Bentley Jr., whose contributions have shaped Baldwin County athletics and the broader community for over five decades.

This dedication follows the official naming announcement in 2024, which we reported last year and was covered by the Union Recorder and by Friendship Chronicles Magazine of Omega Psi Phi Inc. Georgia (OPPGA).

Anderson Bentley Jr.: A Legacy at Baldwin County School District

Coach Anderson Bentley Jr., a 1969 initiate of the Chi Epsilon Chapter at Albany State College (ASC), has been a cornerstone of the Baldwin County School District since arriving in Milledgeville at just 22 years old. Initially aspiring to become a pediatrician, Bentley’s path shifted when he accepted a role at Baldwin Middle School as a supply teacher and coach.

"God had a plan," Bentley shared with Friendship Chronicles. "I fell in love with teaching immediately."

Bentley went on to become certified and build an illustrious career as head football coach, athletic director, head basketball coach, and long-serving track & field coach.

Reflecting on the stadium dedication, Anderson Bentley Jr. said, "This is the most honored thing that has ever happened to me in my lifetime. It is a tribute to my work for the past 50 years. I have tried to excel in everything at Baldwin."

Braves Stadium Track: A Community Tribute

The Baldwin County Board of Education formally approved the naming at its January 9, 2024, meeting, after a heartfelt presentation by Athletic Director Dexter Ricks, Sr..

“This presentation wasn’t just about Baldwin High athletics,” Ricks said. “It was about the community as a whole. You know how it is when you have people who come into your life and change your life and become mentors... He is definitely one of those for me and everybody he touched.”

Braves Stadium, now bearing Anderson Bentley Jr.’s name, stands as a symbol of the lasting influence he’s had on generations of Baldwin students, families, and the local community.

50+ Years of Mentorship and Coaching Excellence

During his tenure at the Baldwin County School District, Anderson Bentley Jr. mentored hundreds of students, often coaching the children—and now grandchildren—of his original athletes. Even after his retirement in 2002, Bentley returned to the district in 2013 to revitalize Baldwin’s track program.

At 76 years old, Bentley continues to serve as a role model and source of inspiration for Baldwin County’s youth. A prostate cancer survivor, he credits his faith, family, and passion for coaching with fueling his commitment to making a difference.

"I get energy from the kids I coach," Bentley said. "Coaching gives me something to do and keeps me actively involved. I don't take it lightly."

Honoring Anderson Bentley Jr. at Braves Stadium

The official unveiling of the Anderson Bentley Jr. Stadium signage at Braves Stadium is a significant milestone for the Baldwin County School District — it is a celebration of leadership, mentorship, and a lifelong dedication to service.

As Baldwin County students continue to compete and grow on this track, they will do so under the proud legacy of Coach Bentley, who has made an indelible mark on Baldwin athletics and the hearts of everyone he’s coached.

13WMAZ's coverage of the 9th Annual Anderson Bentley Track Meet