Though she retired last spring, Coach Gina Buggy, Hon. will continue to leave indelible marks on our community. In recognition of her impact on countless students, EA's varsity field hockey field will henceforth be known as Buggy Field.
In addition to the field renaming, a scholarship fund in Coach Buggy's name has been established by loyal parents and alumnae. Awarded to a multi-sport female athlete who demonstrates characteristics similar to those of Coach Buggy - hard work, a selfless spirit, and a true love for competition - The Gina Buggy Scholarship Fund will help bridge the financial gap for deserving female athletes to attend EA.
These two honors celebrate the thirty-four-year legacy and impact Coach Buggy has had on the athletic program at EA. As the school's first female Athletic Director and longtime field hockey coach, Coach Buggy mentored and inspired hundreds of athletes and nurtured the school's reputation for good sportsmanship and winning teams.
Read more about Coach Buggy's illustrious career.
"When we talk about the ideal teacher-coach-mentor at EA, we often describe someone who lives the Stripes and exemplifies our motto," said Head of School Dr. T.J. Locke. "We think of someone who always puts students' best interests first, who genuinely loves working with young people, who demonstrates humility and selflessness, and who motivates everyone around them to be their best selves. I can think of no better way to describe Gina Buggy."
For Coach Buggy, the establishment of a scholarship in her name was both exhilarating and humbling. "I have witnessed first-hand the tremendous impact an Episcopal education can make on the life of a young person," she said.
For Buggy, the newly-named Buggy Field is the place on campus where she created some of her fondest memories, especially watching the remarkable sunsets with her players at the end of each fall season. "When Dr. Locke announced the naming, I was shocked, proud, and emotional," she recalled. "I love that the field is used frequently and serves a variety of sports teams. I hope every athlete who plays on this field creates lasting bonds and lifelong memories half as rich as the ones I experienced while coaching field hockey here at EA."
A formal dedication of the field is forthcoming. You can make a gift in honor of Coach Buggy (online), or you can support the scholarship fund by contacting Carter Learnard P '18 '22 at cleanard@episcopalacademy.org or 484-424-1760.