Delta State University

Parker Field-McCool Stadium has been host to many historic moments in Delta State athletics history. Some of the greatest athletes to have played college football have stepped foot on Parker Field, but one Statesman in particular has left a lasting legacy.
 
Billy Dorgan, Jr., was a standout place kicker for the Delta State University football program from 1999–2000. He helped the Statesmen to the 2000 Gulf South Conference and NCAA Division II National Championships. He owns the DSU and GSC record for point-after-touchdowns kicked in a season record with 71 in 2000. He ranks third on the single-season scoring list with 110 points, and his 128 career points scored is 11th on DSU’s all-time list. He kicked 81 career PATs, ranking him fifth on the career PATs list.

Dorgan, Jr., set the DSU record for field goals made in a season with 13, but none were more important than the game winner that beat Southern Arkansas, 30-28, in 2000. The Statesmen trailed 28-27 in the final minutes. DSU’s final drive stalled at the SAU 36-yard line. Dorgan kicked a 43-yard field goal with 47 seconds remaining to keep the Statesmen undefeated at 7-0.

While Dorgan had a record-setting career as a student-athlete, his contribution to future student-athlete success is what leaves a lasting impression.
 
Just behind the south end zone overlooking the football field, is Delta State’s premier multi-purpose academic and athletic facility, the Billy Dorgan, Jr. Student Performance Center. 

Designed as a facility where student athletes could continue their success on the field and in the classroom, the Billy Dorgan, Jr., Student Performance Center became a reality thanks to a $1 million donation by Billy and Patty Dorgan, Sr., in the spring of 2002. The Dorgans’ great generosity was due in large part to Billy Dorgan, Jr.’s great academic and athletic experience at Delta State University from 1999–2000.

The state-of-the-art complex totals 15,605 square feet. A free-weight area, a general exercise area, and storage make up the first floor of the center. Two academic labs, a conference room, coaches’ and athletic director’s offices are on the second floor.

The Dorgan Center was completed on Feb. 18, 2005, and is used by all 13 DSU athletic programs.