Our 1984 Florida Gators

Atlantic Logistics’ Close Connection to a Long-Awaited Homecoming

After 40 years, the 1984 Florida Gators football team is finally receiving the long-overdue recognition they deserve. This squad, which won the school’s first SEC title, later had their championship stripped due to NCAA violations related to recruiting practices. Despite the controversy, the team left a lasting legacy in Gator football, with over 20 players going on to play in the NFL.

You might be wondering why Atlantic Logistics is writing about this significant moment in Gator history. For those who don’t know, we have two proud Gators on staff who were part of that 1984 team and have remained close friends and colleagues for the past 40 years. Ray Criswell, a Logistics Specialist, was an All-American punter, and Johnnie Greene, our Chief Operating Officer, served as an equipment manager for the team.

In 1984, the Gators faced major challenges, including the resignation of head coach Charley Pell after three games due to the scandal. Despite this setback, interim coach Galen Hall led the team to a strong finish. The Gators defeated Kentucky 25-17, clinching the SEC title that was later rescinded because of recruiting violations under Pell’s leadership.

For many years, all references to this team were removed from official records, including their spot on the SEC Champions board at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. However, this year, on October 19, during the game against Kentucky, the University of Florida will finally honor the team on the field at the end of the first quarter—an emotional moment for a group that had their hard-earned success taken away.

Reflecting on this recognition, COO Johnnie Greene said, “This means a lot to me because I saw firsthand the hard work each member of that team, including Ray, put in to win that championship on the field. I’m really happy for Ray and his teammates to finally get the acknowledgment they deserve.”

This long-awaited recognition is not only vindication for the players and coaches but also for the staff and fans who stood by them. It’s a powerful reminder that, despite the controversy, the 1984 Gators made history on the field and deserve to be remembered for their hard-fought success.

ABOUT ATLANTIC LOGISTICS

‍Atlantic Logistics provides expedited truckload and partial service on flatbeds, stepdecks, lowbeds, vans, and reefers throughout the United States and Canada. Moving over-dimensional/over-weight freight with specialized equipment, Atlantic Logistics is an approved Department of Defense and General Services Administration broker, qualify as a woman-owned business, and are members of the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA), the Transportation Marketing & Sales Association (TMSA), and the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) and the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA).

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