By Trent Champagne

For the Potts family, going to Quincy University means more than being a Hawk.

Troy Potts is currently in his second year at Quincy University. He serves as the manager of the Quincy University Men’s Basketball team while appearing on the Dean’s List as well.

Troy followed in his father’s footsteps when deciding which school he was going to. 

John Potts is a Quincy College alumnus. The school became a university in 1993. He was the first recipient of the Oakley I and II Scholarship in 1975. John was also the first graduate of the Communication department from Quincy College. 

There has been plenty of change since John graduated from Quincy College. The most change in his eyes has been the increase in Quincy’s tuition. 

“Tuition, mine was $2,300 a year. So much has changed, especially in athletics, technology, housing, and dining,” John said.

The Potts family resides in Quincy. With Troy being a key member of the Quincy Hawks basketball team, John comes back to campus quite often. 

For a long time, John was a sports writer for the Quincy Herald-Whig. He covered the 1979 NAIA National Soccer Championship where the Quincy Hawks defeated Rockhurst 1-0 in the final game, capturing their ninth NAIA National Championship. The Hawks finished that season with a record of 16-5-3.

“I’ve never left. I have followed men’s basketball since 1967, when I was 12. I’ve covered many athletic events as both a student and as a sports writer for the Herald-Whig. QU has always been a part of my life,” John said.

John followed his mother’s footsteps when deciding which school he would go to.

Ardath Potts is also a Quincy College alumna. Like her son, she lives in Quincy as well. Quincy has always been a special place for her. 

“It is absolutely wonderful that both my son and grandson chose to go to my alma mater,” Ardath said.

Like John, when Ardath comes back to campus to watch her grandson manage the team, she feels at home.

“Because I’ve lived in Quincy all my life, and have always supported Quincy College, I don’t feel that I’m coming back. It feels like I’ve always been here,” Ardath said.

Troy is hopeful to become the third generation to become a Quincy University alumni. Having his father and grandmother attend the same school brings him joy.

“It’s great to know I’m attending a university that both my dad and grandmother attended,” Troy said.

During basketball games, Troy sits in the middle of the team bench, keeping statistics for the game. He also serves as the top assistant coach for Quincy University Men’s JV team. While he is not on the bench, Troy sets up practice, does the laundry for the team, as well as many other duties.

Family is one of the most important aspects to Troy’s experience at Quincy University.

“It’s awesome to come to a place everyday where it’s so important for me and my family,” Troy said.