Atlantic Cape Community College honored its history before a big men's basketball win Tuesday night.
Bobby Royal Sr. served as coach and athletic director in a 38-year career that ended with his retirement in 2012.
Many returned to the school's Jonathan Pitney Gymnasium in Mays Landing on Tuesday to witness a presentation that included a framed No. 55 jersey signed by the team.
“We are here tonight to honor a remarkable individual who has left a mark on, not only this college, but on our community,” said Dr. Natalie Devonish, vice president of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude and recognition to Mr. Bobby Royal Sr. for the profound impact he has had.”
A formal gathering in the STEM Building with Royal’s family, friends, former players and coworkers was held prior to the presentation.
Royal reminisced about his time at the school, recalling past student athletes and thanking his wife, Carmen, and family members in attendance for their support.
“This is a real honor and surprise to me," he said. "It means that there are some really good people, nice people that remember all of the hard times that we had in terms of creating this basketball program here. I am hoping that because of something I have done that the program will continue to grow.
"I wish the world of luck to the coaches, athletic director and all of the people that run this program because athletics is a great asset for this college,” he added.
Royal stressed the importance that a robust athletics program plays in the overall health of institutions of higher education and the student athletes who participate.
“It’s an inspiration for the students to go to this college," he said. "Athletics is inspirational and important for the growth of colleges and universities. Academics are very important too, but also the athletic programs help the students grow.”
Current coach, Allen Ragland, talked about the impact Royal has had on his life.
“I am here because of you," Ragland said. "You have been my mentor since I was 11, 12 years old. This is a dream job for me because I know how much work you put into this program and community. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t thank you in my heart and spiritually.
"My goal is to bring that national championship here and to continue helping these students graduate the way that you always wanted them to do," he added. "I thank you for all that you have done and continue to do for me.”
Royal wasn't just a coach, "he was more like a father," said Pleasantville native Wayne Dozier, who played for Royal from 1998 to 2000.
“Bobby set the tone for me as soon as I came in the door," said the business administration graduate. "Every step of the way when I first came to Atlantic Cape, Coach Royal took me under his wing. Anything I needed.
"He had an open-door policy at all times whether it be about school, life or home," Dozier added. "He was always that father figure.”
Roger Lolillo, who recently retired as a Wildwood police officer, played for Royal from the beginning.
“We were so fortunate because, when I started, we didn’t have a head coach," he said. "Then, he came walking in the door looking dapper with his nice suit and hat on, and he said he’s going to be the coach. From week one, he took a liking to me and we just built a bond for the next two years. I considered him like a second father. He always looked out for me. I owe a lot of my success to him.”
The current team of Buccaneers then capped off the evening with a 108-81 victory over Rowan College of South Jersey.
Photo provided by Atlantic Cape Community College
