Gwinnett Daily Post

LAWRENCEVILLE - Vince Dooley, legendary former University of Georgia football coach and athletic director, will be in town Wednesday talking Bulldog football and signing autographs at the Aurora Theatre.

Dooley will be promoting two of his newest books, "Dooley's Playbook: The 34 Most Memorable Plays in Georgia Football History" and "Hairy Dawg Journeys Through the Peach State," as well as a work in progress about gardening.

In "Playbook," Dooley - along with artist Steve Penley - takes a look at some of the most exciting plays in Bulldog history dating back to 1929, the year Sanford Stadium was constructed.

The children's book "Hairy Dawg" takes readers on a trip to Georgia's premier tourism and entertainment venues such as the Augusta National Golf Course and the Georgia Music Hall of Fame.

"The book tour is exciting," Dooley said. "It gives me an opportunity to visit fans of all ages ... I am looking forward to seeing the Aurora Theatre and many friends in Gwinnett County."

Dooley, an Alabama native and Auburn University graduate, began his 25-year coaching career with UGA in 1963. Under his guidance, the Bulldogs won 20 bowl games, six Southeastern Conference titles and a national championship (1980). He also served as athletic director from 1979 until 2004.

In addition to his accomplishments with the university's sports teams, Dooley was also a standard-bearer for academic excellence and has helped raise millions of dollars for the university and for charities such as The Salvation Army, the Heart Fund and Boy Scouts of America. Dooley also remains active in the fight against multiple sclerosis, juvenile diabetes and homelessness.

Fans are encouraged to bring cameras and previously purchased books to be autographed, but outside memorabilia such as collector's items will be limited. Books, artist's prints, game day caps and other items will be available for purchase.

SideBar: If you go

· What: Vince Dooley book signing and meet and greet

· Where: Aurora Theatre, 128 Pike Street, Lawrenceville

· When: 2:30 to 5 p.m. Wednesday