John Bridgers (1990) - Florida State Athletics Hall of Fame

John Bridgers

Induction:
1990

As Florida State's Athletic Director from 1973 to 1979, John Bridgers achieved many things for the Seminole Athletic Department, leading it from mediocrity to the top of the ladder. Named to the prestigious NCAA Division IA Steering Committee during his time at FSU, Bridgers instigated and worked to conclusion the cancellation of a $370,000 debt on Doak S. Campbell Stadium as well as many other outstanding debt responsibilities. He was primarily responsible for FSU's admission to the Metro Conference. In addition, Bridgers made the decision to schedule night home football games which increased attendance by almost 100 percent and brought Auburn, Georgia Tech, South Carolina and Tulane to the football schedule. Under Bridgers, Bobby Bowden was brought in as the Head Football Coach. During his tenure with FSU, the Seminole football team went from an 0-11 record in 1973 to an 11-1 mark and a trip to the Orange Bowl in 1979. In the 1977-78 season, the football, basketball, and baseball teams all received post-season invitations, a feat claimed by only one other school that year and few in college athletic history. In addition he saw cross-country, indoor and outdoor track and field, and golf Metro Conference Championships. Bridgers was the unquestioned leader during a period of Florida State's greatest leap in college athletic stature nationwide.