Tradition is something that is a huge part of Georgia Southern University Athletics, and on Feb. 18, 2012, GSU lost a tradition that is special to many students here, but especially athletes.

On the corner of Tillman Road and Kennedy Street stands a historic restaurant by the name of Snooky’s, and this restaurant has seen it’s fair share of local stars and national figureheads come through it’s doors.

One of these people is none other than former player of this university and current head coach of the men’s basketball team Charlton Young. Snooky’s has also been a hotbed for both coaches and athletes here alike. Erk Russell would go to Snooky’s on Fridays and have coffee there.

Young recall’s that Snooky’s was a special place, and that when campus closed down for winter break he ate breakfast, lunch and dinner there.

Over the years, Young said, “The cooks and workers there at Snooky’s were like family to the athletic department. They sure cheered us up when we lost, and celebrated with us when we won.”

”As a coach, I would go there to read the paper and talk with Bruce,” Young said. “I would go in there more after losses than wins because the waitresses and Bruce would be good to me.”

His favorite meal to get there, as a player, was the grits, eggs and bacon.

“The bacon was so good at Snooky’s that I’d have to put a couple pieces in his pocket for later, I’d eat it like candy,” Young said.

This historic restaurant is not only known for its food, but also walking inside of it you get the sense of a lively atmosphere that makes you feel at home. Young himself has a picture hung on the walls of the restaurant.

“When Bruce put a picture of me with the breakfast crew, that was one of my most memorable moments.”

The smell of freshly prepared food and friendly service also make a trip there memorable.

Freshman business major Arin Dhanani was there for the first time.

“When I found out they were going to close, I had to go experience it at least once. I’d heard a lot about it but never got the chance to go until now,” Dhanani said.

Owner Bruce Yawn announced about a month ago that Snooky’s would close after Saturday, Feb. 18.

On Yawn’s announcement, Young said, “He’s been working sunup to sundown for forty-one years. He deserves a break.”

Eric Bruns, freshman chemistry major, said, “It’s a shame that they’re closing, but I’m glad I got to try it.”

On Friday and Saturday locals and students alike visited to pay one last visit to a place that is more than just a restaurant — it’s a piece of this town and part of coming to GSU. While it will be sad that Snooky’s will be closed, people can reflect on the memories that were made and the good times that were had.