Apart from his immediate family and close friends, R.C. Slocum, the former coach of Texas A&M, has never openly shared a personal memory of George H.W. Bush, the former President of the United States. Slocum recently mentioned that the current timing, following the passing of President Bush and with his presidential library located on the A&M campus, is fitting to reflect on his interactions with him.
In 1988, just a month after George H.W. Bush assumed the presidency, Slocum was appointed as the coach of the Aggies. Serving from 1989 to 2002, Slocum achieved a remarkable 123 victories, making him one of the most successful coaches in the program’s history. During his tenure, Slocum guided the Aggies to clinch four conference titles.
However, despite his accomplishments, Slocum was relieved of his coaching duties in December 2002 after a mediocre 6-6 season. Looking back, Slocum expressed his disappointment with the decision and believes it was unjust and not well-founded.
Shortly after, Slocum received a call from none other than George H.W. Bush, inviting him to play golf at the Shadow Hawk Golf Club in Richmond, Houston. While the golf outing was the initial pretext, the real purpose was a heart-to-heart conversation that unfolded between Slocum and Bush.
After their golf game, Slocum and Bush retreated to a secluded table in the resort away from other guests. Bush empathized with Slocum’s disappointment, drawing parallels to his own experience of being ousted from office after his first term. He encouraged Slocum to exhibit his true character to the American people during this challenging time. Bush, who held Slocum in high regard, believed that this moment presented an opportunity for Slocum to showcase his integrity and resilience to others.
