BAKERSFIELD, CA – With great sadness, the Renegade Athletics family has lost a true pioneer in the Kern County community, Andre Eddington, also known by many as "Andre the Magician."

Eddington served as an assistant equipment manager for over 50 years for the Bakersfield College football team. "Everyone talks about the uniqueness of Bakersfield College and one of those components is the people at BC, and Andre would be a prime example of that person. He made BC a better place," said former Head Coach Jeff Chudy.

The former assistant equipment manager had many challenges, including a disability of impaired hearing, but you would have only known if you knew him personally. Andre turned his challenges into opportunities to impact people with acts of service and a willingness to always make someone smile. He performed at many community members' kids' birthday parties doing magic shows and saved a special magic show for the Renegade football team each season.

Those that knew him best described him as invaluable to Bakersfield College. His enthusiasm to help anyone was uplifting. It did not matter if you were a coach or player, he had a contagious quality that brought out the best in everybody. That quality stood out to former players as they enrolled in a sign language class on campus to communicate with Andre more. "He inspired many players, including myself. He was like a big brother," said former player and coach Ken Calvin. "I knew Andre as a kid because of the magic shows he did in the community, but as a freshman in college, I knew he was special to the football program. Everyone respected his humbleness and positive energy he brought daily to practice and games." Calvin maintained a personal relationship with Eddington as he got older and invited him to barbecues at his house often.

His cousin, Michael Bowers, spoke about how involved he was with Bakersfield College, so much so they called the school his second family. "He was passionate about the team, the community and loved BC. He ushered most of his family in Memorial Stadium and represented the Renegades to the fullest." Eddington lived with so much passion and always showed it to others. Even when Bowers got a position in Congress, his cousin was unbelievably happy for him.

Andre "the Magician" left an impression on many and brought awareness to help change other people's life who had a disability. His legacy will live on at Bakersfield College.

A memorial service has been set up for the honorary Renegade by Andre's daughter and cousin on July 22, 2023. The service will take place at the Historic Union Cemetary (20 Potomac Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93307) at 10:00 am. Those that knew him are invited to come and share stories of his life with others.