AJC > Sports > Highschools > Blog > Archives > 2008 > July > 27 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USWhich city is Georgia’s 21st Century high school football Titletown?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
The city of Valdosta has won ESPN’s Titletown USA contest. The promotion made me wonder if Valdosta still deserves that title as a football town, even in Georgia, at least this decade.
Since this is a high school football blog, and since we concede that Valdosta is the all-time football Titletown in Georgia, let’s limit this to Georgia high school football in the 21st Century and call it High School Football Titletown XXI.
Which Georgia city should claim this title? I came up with a points system that goes something like this:
Region title: 2 points
Making the Georgia Dome semifinals: 1 point
Making a state final: 1 point
Winning a GHSA state title: 2 points
Winning a GISA state title: 2 points
To make things fair, I’m limiting the great big Atlanta to its city limits. No Marist or St. Pius to inflate the stats. That’s another county. I’m also including GISA schools, albeit with just one point for a region title and two for a state title.
Which city came out on top?
TODD’S TITLETOWN XXI TOP 10
1. Buford, 39
2. Columbus, 38
3. Valdosta, 36
4. Warner Robins, 36
5. Homerville, 31
6. LaGrange, 31
7. Folkston, 30
8. Macon, 29 (thanks to GISA)
9. Lincolnton, 29
10. Statesboro, 28
But I’m not ready to crown Buford because one-school towns probably should have their own category.
Below are my rankings. I left the point totals in parentheses for comparison.
1: Valdosta (36) — Still No. 1. Lowndes has won three state titles, and Lowndes and Valdosta have won seven of the eight region titles in 1-AAAAA, the state’s toughest league. Plus, even Valwood won a GISA region in 2006.
2: Warner Robins (36) — Warner Robins and Columbus are the only cities that can claim GHSA state titles from two schools this decade. Northside has won back-to-back titles in Class AAAA. Warner Robins won in 2004. If HoCo could just pick it up a little. Jeesh.
3: Buford (39) — Just one school, but the Wolves’ four state titles, six trips to the Georgia Dome and seven region titles are better totals than any other city in the state combined. Simply put, Buford is home to Georgia’s most decorated football team this century.
4 A-B-C-D: Homerville (31), Folkston (30), Lincolnton (29) and Kingsland (23) — Sorry to lump these together, but these are one-school towns that are really runners-up to Buford in that category. Throw in LaGrange (31) and Statesboro (28), cities that have two schools (but one that does all the title work). All these really should be in a separate category. Add Lilburn (26) to the list, as well.
5: Columbus (38) — Yes, Columbus. It’s the third-most populous city in the state, which helps, but Columbus is the only city besides Atlanta with four schools that have won region titles this decade (Shaw, Carver, Brookstone, Pacelli). All four were ranked in the final AJC Top 10 in 2007. And Carver (2007) and Shaw (2000) have won state titles.
6: Thomasville (24) — It’s hard to justify Georgia’s Rose City without a GHSA state title, but Thomasville is the only city that won three region titles in 2007 — Thomas Central (1-AAAA), Thomasville (1-AA) and Brookwood School (GISA’s 3-AA). And Brookwood did just win GISA’s AA state championship. The city has won eight region titles this decade.
7: Sandersville (27) — Washington County has won four region titles and made the Georgia Dome in 2006, but it’s the GISA school, Brentwood, that gives Sandersville a little extra push this decade. Brentwood won state titles in 2002 and 2003.
8: Roswell (15) — There isn’t a high volume in titles, but I like the variety. Centennial, Roswell, Blessed Trinity and Fellowship Christian have won region titles, and Roswell got the state trophy in 2006. All are Top 10 candidates in 2008.
9: Gainesville(14) — It’s a stretch, but this is the only Georgia city besides Atlanta with three schools that have multiple region titles this decade: Gainesville, North Hall, Riverside Military.
10: Atlanta (27) — I know what you’re going to say. There are no state titles here, but five of the nine city schools — Carver, Douglass, Grady, Mays and Washington — have won region titles. So have private schools Lovett and Westminster.
Kick off the debate: You’ve seen Todd’s Titletowns. Now send us YOURS. Tell us which Georgia city deserves the Titletown XXI designation and why.
Permalink | Comments (96) | Post your comment | Categories: Extra Point
Comments
By david
July 28, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
No question, the winningest high school football program in the country, VALDOSTA!!!
By TITLE TOWN
July 28, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this
The Valdosta Daily Times just announced that VALDOSTA, GA is the winner of ESPN’s Title Town.
By Buck Belue
July 28, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this
I know you ATL types hate it, but South Georgia football RULES, and Valdosta is the New York Yankees of HS Football!
By Watch um all
July 28, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this
Doesn’t Buford hand pick some of their top players? I mean most schools (not all) to some extent recruit a bit, but does that make them a power house? Are there different rules for city schools? Or am I way off? I cant help it, when you start comparing on this level, these things come to mind.
By Watch um all
July 28, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this
Buck, A Georgia team is a Georgia team. we are proud to call Valdosta our own! Oh, by the way being stuck there in between Florida and Georgia, two huge high school football states, I would think that would help a little. So power to ya, Camden is great too!
I’m a Gwinnett Parent
By Mark
July 28, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this
The reason Houston County hasn’t won is that they tend to gravitate to the scholastics rather than athletics. Notice in AYP Northside is now in their 2nd year.
By Truth
July 28, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this
Buck,
You’re acting like a bitter old woman since you left the Dawgs. Seeing all your old Dawg baseball records fall (like water) to Gordon Beckham.
I know, I know, it stings.
By sprtdog
July 28, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this
The decade is not over and don’t be surprised if Lowndes adds a few more state titles before 2011.
By george
July 28, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this
Mark, give me a break with the “Houston County and the scholastics” bit. They just haven’t measured up to the other two schools when it comes to athletics. At football games, they fall back on the mantra “at least our band is better than yours”. Unfortunately for HoCo, the band cannot put points on the board.
By BO08
July 28, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this
Buck Belue was one of our heroes in the 80s. Thanks, Buck.
By Cindy Prater
July 28, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this
Why did you not include college/university in this? Valdosta State University has won two national championships in football just in the last few years.
By Scooter
July 28, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
GISAc counts? Shouldn’t that be considered for the JV titletown contest?
By Gary
July 28, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this
Congrats to Valdosta for winning Title Town USA. Every home grown Georgian is proud of you. I would have to agree with Todd that Valdosta is still the king in high school football. They grow ‘em for football down in south Georgia. LOL!
By OneMoreDawg
July 28, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this
Where is Athens? In high school football Clarke Central was a force under Billy Henderson…won three state titles - ‘77, ‘79 & ‘85.
By Russ
July 28, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
I am not from South Georgia… in fact I grew up in the city of Atlanta, but I want to say Congrats to Valdosta, GA for being named the NEW Titletown!!! I may not live in V-town or anywhere near it but at least I can say I am from the state that has Titletown in it!!!
By Eponymous
July 28, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this
Congrats to Valdosta, and thanks for one of my fondest memories, beating you guys 6-0 at our field in the 1991 State semis…en route to a State Championship and USA Today Super Prep National Championship.
Go Grangers! LaGrange, GA, USA.
By No Dawgs Here
July 28, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this
What about Carrollton? Fine programs in that county. In the later 80’s Carroll County had the A AA and AA champs!! I don’t think any other county can lay claim to that!!
By No Dawgs Here
July 28, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this
What about Carrollton? Fine programs in that county. In the later 80’s Carroll County had the A AA and AAA champs!! I don’t think any other county can lay claim to that!!
By jw
July 28, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this
Wonder if Dalton could still be in the hunt? They seem to be the Atlanta Braves of high school football. They have a 46 year streak of winning seasons going. They win every year, year in year out, but can’t get the big one. Seems they are a now a little bit forgotten in the Georgia Football stuff since Coach Bill Chappell left several years ago. With a population shift, more love for soccer than football, seems they get a lot out of a little. Winners, year in and year out! It’s the biggest thing going in this area. NO community around here does Friday night as well.
Maybe not a title town in the way Valdosta is, but pretty decent all things considered. Put Dalton on the list!
By NY4LIFE
July 28, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this
What about the Crisp County Cougars out of Cordele, Georgia???
By NY4LIFE
July 28, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this
Crisp County had 3 DB’s back in the mid 90’s that changed HS football altogether. Those 3 alone should make Cordele TitleTown USA.
By MFG
July 28, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this
There’s really is no need for a “21st century titletown” —it’s only 2008.
Valdosta is the king when it comes to football programs in Georgia —there should be no question.
MFG -Gwinnett County (1970-2001)
By Lady T
July 28, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
VALDOSTA RULES!!
Class of ‘84….Marchin Cat!!
By Gwinnett alumn
July 28, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this
Watch um your right. How can Buford even be in the mix? Buford limits their enrollment so they don’t have play in a higher classification. Stacking the program with kids/players from outside the city, county limits. Yeah that’s how you measure greatness…
GO VALDOSTA-LINCOLN CO.!!!!
By golden herd
July 28, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this
He is only talking about titles this decade people. he didnt consider titles 20 or 30 years ago. some of you need to read before you speak.
By DJ
July 28, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this
I disagree with Valdosta being the 21st century titletown. Buford is hands down the best this century. However Valdosta takes the cake when you take ALL time best.
By Hal
July 28, 2008 1:40 PM | Link to this
Todd, Valwood’s ‘06 was the State Title… not just a region title.
By SGT CHRIS
July 28, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
Eponymous—-that was the highlight of my short football career!!!! the atmosphere of that game alone was worth getting run over by andre short, paul pickett, and walt harris everyday in practice lol!!!!!
By mike
July 28, 2008 1:54 PM | Link to this
even the alstar mvp came out of valdosta the night before the airing of the titletown coverage in valdosta a town of only 40 something thousand people the timing was awesome.
go blazevikecatiants
By Derek Bowen
July 28, 2008 2:41 PM | Link to this
Snellville should be on the list. I mean Im the AD at Shiloh and we finish last in every sport. There has to be an award for that, right? I mean before I took over we were middle of the pack in most sports, but now we are dead last in every sport. Thats what I can do baby! AD of the Year.
By Todd Holcomb
July 28, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
Why did you not include college/university in this? Valdosta State University has won two national championships in football just in the last few years.
Maybe I should’ve, but it is a high school blog. That would’ve put Valdosta over the top for the decade.
Snellville should be on the list. I mean Im the AD at Shiloh and we finish last in every sport. There has to be an award for that, right?
Brookwood and South Gwinnett are contributing a little. Shiloh should get a point for David Pollack.
Todd, Valwood’s ‘06 was the State Title… not just a region title.
Sorry, give ‘em another point. So you’re telling me that Valdosta High ranks third in state titles this decade IN ITS OWN COUNTY? Wow!
I disagree with Valdosta being the 21st century titletown. Buford is hands down the best this century. However Valdosta takes the cake when you take ALL time best.
Based strictly on total titles, Buford is correct. But it’s harder to have all three of your schools winning big.
GISAc counts? Shouldn’t that be considered for the JV titletown contest?
That’s about right.
re: Athens & Carrollton
It’s this decade, not history.
By C tha 1
July 28, 2008 4:52 PM | Link to this
I think the only high school football program that can compete with Valdosta in terms of wins and loses is Lincoln County. Although they are a single A school if you don’t bring your A game they will hand you your A right back to you.
By T to the D
July 28, 2008 7:23 PM | Link to this
This exercise proves ‘tards can type:
GRIFFIN HIGH SCHOOL BEARS, more PRO’s than any HS in GA.
By Panola Rd's Finest
July 28, 2008 7:33 PM | Link to this
Not knocking you Todd Holcomb because you do an excellent job, but this is undebatable due to the IMMENSE overall TALENT in this state.
Georgia ranks in the top five as far as high school talent AND sending people to the pros. We could debate this all day which is what you intended but right now we are all proud and satisfied with VALDOSTA being the title town.
When MLK played them in the second round it was a BIG deal simply because they were VALDOSTA the team that no Dekalb county team had beaten. So with that
Congrats to the city of Valdosta, you deserved it.
By tommy
July 28, 2008 8:33 PM | Link to this
Go Waco and Brentwood — not only football but also both have won titles in basketball - track - weight lifting ( even beating Valdosta ) We may be small but we stand TALL
By Todd
July 28, 2008 9:00 PM | Link to this
Yeah. Great job focusing on academics Houston County. Too bad HoCo missed AYP this year as well. At least Northside has the athletics to turn to.
By Eagle Fan
July 28, 2008 9:53 PM | Link to this
Todd,
didn’t you get the email. Warner Robins is now Northside GA. Congrats to Valdosta. ESPN finally got something right.
By What? Buford ?
July 28, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
Buford is a “several town, several counties school”!! Most all of their staters (espclly the skill positions) are from OUTSIDE of the city limits,,,, plus they are a so called BIGtime program playing in the LITTLE league of only AA. I was soooo looking forward to Marist to drop,, but Marist decided to stay put,,, in AAAA(4a— region 6 no less) 2 levels ABOVE the level the state allows. Buford is a recuiting/ sandbagging program scared to step up!!! Always have been, always will be.
By jay
July 28, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this
what hate for buford! i can name other schools in metro atlanta that do the same thing buford does, the only difference is buford wins.
By Calling you out Jay
July 28, 2008 11:23 PM | Link to this
Jay,,, calling you out,,,,,, name a school,, or more that has kids from multiple counties and city limits that play AA.
By still caling you out Jay
July 28, 2008 11:38 PM | Link to this
Name a Metro school that is,,,, a PUBLIC CITY school playing AA with kids like hmmm,, the Case kid (Scott Case’s son) who could walk less than a quarter mile to North Gwnt. I met(someone who knows) Dallas Lee and know that he and Dillon were recuited and moved. The X-Duluth Runningback very recently transfered without moving out of Duluth,, Shall we back up to Hunter, or Walker, or that head hunter #30 safety a few years back (great player. I can’t remember his name). C’mon,, if the population qualifies for AA then how does Buford dress out 200 kids, have a college size line , and quality skill players year after year??? FYI,,, I just wish they’d step up and play some real competition for a change. Why not schedule some Brookwood, Tucker, Stephenson, MARIST, etc… heck,,, why not North Gwmt. or North Hall, or even Flowery Branch, or heck with such strong recuits why not scrimmage Ga.Southern ?? Step up out of the baby pool and swim deep
By mistermak
July 29, 2008 1:39 AM | Link to this
didn’t valdosta only win one game in 2006? that has to be considered in there somewhere!!!
By mistermak
July 29, 2008 1:45 AM | Link to this
Just to be sure I looked at the region standings for this decade and Valdosta finshed second 3 times and last once. Powerhouse? What’s up with that?
By joe informed
July 29, 2008 6:19 AM | Link to this
I DNT NO IF IM WRONG ABOUT THIS BUT STEPHENSON HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE SHORT TIME THEY BEEN AROUND HAS REALLY MADE A NAME FOR ITS SELF.I MAEN THEY MAY HAVE NOT ONE A STATE TITLE IN FOOTBALL YET BUT WE HAVE I THINK LIKE WE HAVE LIKE 5 OR 6 REGION TITLES, BEEN TO THE DOME, IN THE PLAYOFFS EVERY YEAR, AND ALWAYS HAVE ALEAST A FEW GOIN TO COLLEGE AND LOTS OF D-1 PLAYERS FRM OUR SCHOOL.ALSO JUST THE OVER ALL PROGRAM STATE TITLES WITH GIRLS BASKETBALL 2, TRACK STATE TITLES AS WELL AND BOTH THEM HAVE MANY REGION TITLES TO GO BEHIND THAT.ALL THIS IN JUST 12 YEARS.SO TELL ME IF IM WRONG!!!
By joe informed
July 29, 2008 6:19 AM | Link to this
I DNT NO IF IM WRONG ABOUT THIS BUT STEPHENSON HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE SHORT TIME THEY BEEN AROUND HAS REALLY MADE A NAME FOR ITS SELF.I MAEN THEY MAY HAVE NOT ONE A STATE TITLE IN FOOTBALL YET BUT WE HAVE I THINK LIKE WE HAVE LIKE 5 OR 6 REGION TITLES, BEEN TO THE DOME, IN THE PLAYOFFS EVERY YEAR, AND ALWAYS HAVE ALEAST A FEW GOIN TO COLLEGE AND LOTS OF D-1 PLAYERS FRM OUR SCHOOL.ALSO JUST THE OVER ALL PROGRAM STATE TITLES WITH GIRLS BASKETBALL 2, TRACK STATE TITLES AS WELL AND BOTH THEM HAVE MANY REGION TITLES TO GO BEHIND THAT.ALL THIS IN JUST 12 YEARS.SO TELL ME IF IM WRONG!!!
By joe informed
July 29, 2008 6:19 AM | Link to this
I DNT NO IF IM WRONG ABOUT THIS BUT STEPHENSON HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE SHORT TIME THEY BEEN AROUND HAS REALLY MADE A NAME FOR ITS SELF.I MAEN THEY MAY HAVE NOT ONE A STATE TITLE IN FOOTBALL YET BUT WE HAVE I THINK LIKE WE HAVE LIKE 5 OR 6 REGION TITLES, BEEN TO THE DOME, IN THE PLAYOFFS EVERY YEAR, AND ALWAYS HAVE ALEAST A FEW GOIN TO COLLEGE AND LOTS OF D-1 PLAYERS FRM OUR SCHOOL.ALSO JUST THE OVER ALL PROGRAM STATE TITLES WITH GIRLS BASKETBALL 2, TRACK STATE TITLES AS WELL AND BOTH THEM HAVE MANY REGION TITLES TO GO BEHIND THAT.ALL THIS IN JUST 12 YEARS.SO TELL ME IF IM WRONG!!!
By joe informed
July 29, 2008 6:19 AM | Link to this
I DNT NO IF IM WRONG ABOUT THIS BUT STEPHENSON HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE SHORT TIME THEY BEEN AROUND HAS REALLY MADE A NAME FOR ITS SELF.I MAEN THEY MAY HAVE NOT ONE A STATE TITLE IN FOOTBALL YET BUT WE HAVE I THINK LIKE WE HAVE LIKE 5 OR 6 REGION TITLES, BEEN TO THE DOME, IN THE PLAYOFFS EVERY YEAR, AND ALWAYS HAVE ALEAST A FEW GOIN TO COLLEGE AND LOTS OF D-1 PLAYERS FRM OUR SCHOOL.ALSO JUST THE OVER ALL PROGRAM STATE TITLES WITH GIRLS BASKETBALL 2, TRACK STATE TITLES AS WELL AND BOTH THEM HAVE MANY REGION TITLES TO GO BEHIND THAT.ALL THIS IN JUST 12 YEARS.SO TELL ME IF IM WRONG!!!
By bufordsooner
July 29, 2008 6:43 AM | Link to this
to calling out jay-nice rumors not true Buford city is in two counties.50 players on varsity last year, 11 on j.v. scrimmaged flowery branch last two years, won’t post scores two embarrassing. North hall on schedule this year. North Gwinnett will not play all time series 30-5-1, yes all players from team that tied were shot. Played in 5A jv league last year, undefeated. Same transfer and move-in rules as rest of state. herbstreit two years in a row. Buford-“enough said”
By BigPerm
July 29, 2008 6:47 AM | Link to this
still caling you out Jay - Quite ignorant comments you make their little buddy! If you’re gonna talk junk at least have the details. Omar Hunter played at Buford all the way through youth league by the way. Every school has tuition players if they’re the least bit good. What parent wouldn’t want their child at a school where they’ll get a great education and have multiple scholarship opportunities in many sports. There are GHSA rules and regulations governing these “transfers”. You and I both know that everyone’s looking to knock down the giant, so if there were infractions, Buford would be penalized.Buford plays in the classification that best makes sense for all sports at the school. They do have more than football by the way.Again GHSA has a lot to do with what classification Buford plays in. As far as playing North Gwinnett, Brookwood, etc…they won’t schedule us….the AAAA & AAAAA schools have nothing to gain in it. Texas, North Hall, & Thompson are on the schedule this year. So come on down to Tom Riden Stadium one Friday night and enjoy the show you Hater!
By Clint
July 29, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
Todd Holcomb with the AJC….you stink!!!! Why are you trying to dirty the water by putting your own opinions to who should recieve TitleTown. The fact of the matter is Valdosta won it and you should be happy being from Georgia!! It’s not all about High School football, even though in your mind set it is. Yes, it was Valdost High School that put us on the map and Yes it was and is Lowndes High School that has keep us there the past 8 or 9 years, but don’t forget about our Blazers they drove the final nail in the coffin for us!!!!
By Cat4Life
July 29, 2008 12:50 PM | Link to this
Well put Clint! Too Mistermak. I notice that you have comments about Valdosta’s recent performance. Keep digging and you will find that these kids played the best that Uath and Florida had to offer followed by competing in the toughest region that GA football has to offer. Name one school that does not prepare to play any Valdosta or Lowndes county team and I’ll show you a loss. Now that’s the mark of a powerhouse program. I’ll take any one loss team out of Valdosta and place them up against your best undefeated team any day. No that’s a powerhouse program. Not to mention that Valdosta High School has one of the smallest enrollments out of all schools in it’s region, but still demands repect. Why are we having this debate? Because you and others want to be a powerhouse program.
By mikemike
July 29, 2008 2:04 PM | Link to this
I LIKE TO SEE CAIRO SYRUPMAKER PLAY VALDOSTA AND LOWNDES.
By BigPerm
July 29, 2008 2:15 PM | Link to this
mikemike would like to see East Jones County vs. West Atherton….nice match up
By swamprat
July 29, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this
JUST AS A REMINDER IN CASE MANY OF YOU DON’T KNOW IT: lAST DECEMBER, VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY FOOTBALL TEAM WON THE NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP IN DIVISION II ON A SATURDAY AFTERNOON AND THAT SAME NIGHT, LOWNDES BEAT NORTH GWINNETTE HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE 5AAAAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP. HOW MANY TIMES HAVE THAT EVERY HAPPENED EVER IN THE HISTORY OF FOOTBALL. PROBABLY NEVER EVER. ALSO, VALDOSTA STATE UNIV. WON THE DIVISION II CHAMPIONSHIPS 2 OF THE PAST 4 YEARS AND LOWNDES WON THE 5AAAAA GA. STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS 3 OF THE PAST 4 YEARS AND THE LAST 2 YEARS IN A ROW. HOW MANY TIMES HAVE THAT HAPPENED IN THE HISTORY OF FOOTBALL? PROBABLY NEVER EVER. AND THERE ARE STILL UNINFORMED AND MISINFORMED MISFITS OUT THERE THAT CAN’T ACCECPT THE FACT THAT A LIL’ SMALL TOWN WITH A POPULATION OF JUST OVER 40,000 PEOPLE AND WITH A COUNTY POPULATION OF 70,000 SOMETHING, WON SUCH A PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL HONOR IN A NATIONWIDE SELECTION PROCESS CONDUCTED BY AN OUTSIDE SOURCE. YOU SHOULND’T BE COMPLAINING AND RIDICULING VALDOSTA FOR WINNING THIS AWARD. YOU SHOULD BE EMAILING ESPN TO COMPLAIN AND SEE HOW MANY OF YOU GETS AN ANSWER TO YOUR EMAIL. GO AHEAD, EMAIL ESPN. OTHERSIDE, S-H-U-T-U-P-.
By tommy tillman
July 29, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this
ESPN got it right!! How many national titles did Buford win?
By Big Foxx
July 29, 2008 5:17 PM | Link to this
In terms of state championships, Valdosta is Ga’s Titletown. They have won most. But as a former Red Devil, I think Lincoln County deserves a little more respect. I know we are a small school but we have won 16 state championships. Headcoach Larry Campbell is the winningest coach in GA Football history with over 400 victories. We have to be a close second.
By Still calling out Buford fans
July 29, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this
None of you have yet changed my mind,,, and none of you have yet to NAME A SCHOOL (much less schoolS) who is PUBLIC and plays AA. I agree that Buford is a solid program,,,,,, but they play in the little leagues. Call Coaches throughout Dekalb Co. and I’ll bet that they’ll gladly accept a game. I watched Tucker scrimmage you folks,,,,, and Tucker only played staters for ONE QUARTER,,, and still had more yards, points, and first downs. Again,, I challenge Buford to step up,, call SW DEkalb, Tucker, Stephenson, MLK, and MARIST. Oh yeah good ole Marist,,, they too qualify for AA yet they play AAAA in the toughest region no less,,, go ahead call Coach Chadwick and come on down. True COMPETITORS ENJOY COMPETITION
Jay name those schools you spoke of earlier……. still waiting,, still hating!!!!
By slalom1
July 29, 2008 8:50 PM | Link to this
TODD, Thanks for the #4, but LaGrange has 3 high schools: LaGrange, Troup, and Callaway.
By Calling you out Jay
July 29, 2008 10:56 PM | Link to this
where’s those, “i can names other schools folks from Buford” ?
If Buford is such a GIANT, then why play AA ? Giants play against other giants like those in region 1-AAAAA, or those in region 6-AAAA,, ,, so come on UP to the land(regions) of giants. Great job to the JV,,, how’d the 9th grade team fair against S.Gwntt?
By the way,,, NO other PUBLIC schools DO NOT have TUITION !!! Who paid for those recuits’ tuition ? Alumni ? Sounds like Buddy Curry and the likes might be chipping in up ‘round dem parts up yonder north of the city!! y’all welcome for some competition any time you’re ready !! The kiddie pool sure is shallow!!
By Ashley
July 29, 2008 11:22 PM | Link to this
Well I remember last year when North Gwinette came south for the state championship. All the hoopla over their top college prospects. When the game started all I saw was Jr. College prospects. North Georgia football is slow and prodictable. Lowndes ran only three ofensives plays the whole game. They ran one play 44 times and never stopped Lowndes. So all I see is north Georgia winers here. They should be proud that a city in Georgia won the Title Town USA competition. After all Valdosta has 449 titles to count for it. That is in football, baseball, basketball, track, tennis, and swimming. With Lowndes, Valdosta, Valwood, Open Bible, Georgia Christian, and Valdosta State. There was even one by a older and closed school of Dasher High. So be proud of the city of Valdosta and Lowndes County for winning the trophy of Title Town USA 2008. Just think of great it will be for this area and the state of Georgia. Then again the Atlanta area thinks it is better than any of the South Georgia area. When in fact the whole state has to show there pride in their sporting endeavors. They should be proud of the young people who go out on the field to play on game nights. I sure am proud of them for there athletic and academic achievements.
By Watch um all
July 30, 2008 12:22 AM | Link to this
Buddy Curry, Scott Case kid Cody, kids from Duluth, come on, my kid is one of the best OL, FB around. every school around here knows him and what he can do. yet, it has been a freakin nightmare to keep him in his school because mom lives here and dad lives there. no favors were handed out in gwinnett. It had to be handled the hard way. no money to fork over here. money counts! doesnt make you a winner though.
By Watch um all
July 30, 2008 12:24 AM | Link to this
oh by the way, cody case grew up playing for north gwinnett youth football.
By mistermak
July 30, 2008 1:15 AM | Link to this
I still don’t understand how a team that only had one win 2 seasons ago can be considered a powerhouse. Even Camden beat them for the state championship on their own feild in 03. Valdosta sux!!
By yo
July 30, 2008 1:21 AM | Link to this
For all of you outside the city of Valdosta who participated by voting for us a GREAT BIG THANK YOU! Question? Did the AJC ever run an article on this prior to the voting letting the state of Ga. know this was happening? I never saw any thing and if not I am extremely disapointed in the AJC for not doing so. Please tell me I am mistaken.
By yo
July 30, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this
mistermak have you ever heard of Lowndes? It is in the city limits of the city of Valdosta. The school that is.
By still caling you out Jay
July 30, 2008 7:50 AM | Link to this
Still looking to see if you can name those schools. I’D SAY Lovett would be your best guess,,,,, however it is a PRIVATE school.
Buford is like a big kid at Six Flags scared to ride anytjing other than the Looney Toons rides,,,, and freaks out on the Dahlonega,,,, you kids get out of that baby pool !!!
By jason
July 30, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this
Congrats Valdosta, and Lowndes County. Born and raised in Cairo, Ga. I know all about the history and tradition of your football programs. Valdosta High did have alot to do with the noterity and respect you have been shown, but you as a whole deserve the credit, and the adulation. I always wanted Cairo to play either Valdosta or Lowndes; to be apart of the tradition. I am proud to be from Cairo, and to graduated from CHS. Proud of our own tradition. But, playing one of these schools, priceless…
By bufordsooner
July 30, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this
to still calling out Jay, Buford like all city schools can accept students from outside the city limits. In Buford’s case, basically the students pay the city tax that all residents pay. Gainesville, Marietta,Decatur, Commerce etc. Have the same options.Class designation is determined by the student population not ability of the teams. That of course is a dual edge sword. Some of the best teams in the state are from lower classifications than 5a. Have your opinion,please, but get the facts straight.
By Todd Holcomb
July 30, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this
Todd Holcomb with the AJC….you stink!!!! Why are you trying to dirty the water by putting your own opinions to who should recieve TitleTown. The fact of the matter is Valdosta won it and you should be happy being from Georgia!! It’s not all about High School football, even though in your mind set it is.
I didn’t offer my opinion on who should receive TitleTown. Fact of the matter is that I believe Valdosta should’ve won, and I am happy about, being from Georgia. I just thought it would be interesting on a high school football blog to argue which city is Georgia’s High School Football TitleTown this decade. And in the end, I selected Valdosta.
TODD, Thanks for the #4, but LaGrange has 3 high schools: LaGrange, Troup, and Callaway.
Callaway has a Hogansville mailing address. I’m not sure how close it is to the city. Of course, they all play their games in LaGrange.
ESPN got it right!! How many national titles did Buford win?
ESPN’s contest was something different. It measure all sports for all-time. Here, we’re talking high school football this decade. I still settled on Valdosta, but it is worth noting that Buford has as many titles this decade as Valdosta and Lowndes or Northside and Warner Robins combined.
Todd, didn’t you get the email. Warner Robins is now Northside GA. Congrats to Valdosta. ESPN finally got something right.
I like that. But is Valdosta about to be Lowndes City?
By Dan
July 30, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
Enough of this South Georgia/ North Georgia stuff. Good football teams win regardless of what region of the state they play. In this decade, it is split 4-4 for AAAAA state championships. Parkview has won 3, Lowndes 3, Camden 1 and Peachtree Ridge/Roswell 1. That seems pretty even to me. And I distinctly remember a certain Brookwood team in 1996 drilling Valdosta 45-23 in Valdosta for the state championship.
With that being said, I’m glad that Valdosta won. If Boston or New York won Titletown USA, I was going to boycott ESPN forever!
By still caling you out Jay
July 30, 2008 9:16 PM | Link to this
Yo Jay,,,, still waiting. Hey Bufordsooner,,,, I can’t help but notice that there’s NO DENIAL by any of you Buford folks as to the recuiting. My point is that Buford can and should compete in a higher class than AA,,,, espclly if the towns’ folk are throwing words like “GIANTS” around. I’d love to see them play some other good programs rather than dominate against cellar it dweller programs,,,,, it’d be great for Ga highschool football to see top teams playing other top teams,,,, even little 5-6 year olds get tired of the baby pool and head for the deep end. Step up !!!
By BUFORD24
July 31, 2008 1:46 AM | Link to this
If i am not mistaking which i am not all of buford’s non-region games are against teams that are in higher classifications. Don’t hate cause no one wants to play us. What the hell you talking about step-up? And as to scrimmaging Tucker what in the world are you talking about STILL CALLING OUT BUFORD FANS, we must have watched two seperate scrimmages because we did really well against them. get your facts straight homie.
By mistermak
July 31, 2008 4:20 AM | Link to this
I get so sick of hearing about Buford!! Let it go already!! They are only a AA school any way who cares about that?!!!
By BigPerm
July 31, 2008 7:39 AM | Link to this
mistermak, quit your crying. Of course you’re tired of hearing about Buford. The winning teams get most of the coverage. Just get ready for your freshman year at Podunk High School and quit whining!
By Shut up ALREADY !!!!
July 31, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this
Buford did really well against Tucker,,,,,, yeah,, after the first quarter when Dat Tuck had all the starters on the sidelines,,, Buford did well against a bunch of 9th-10th graders. I agree with “calling out Jay”,,,,,, nobody denies that your GIANT team is a team made up of MOSTLY OUTSIDE RECUITS,,, and I doubt “NO-ONE WILL PLAY BUFORD”. Have you tried scheduling with any Dekalb County schools ? ,,,like Chamblee, Marist, Tucker, SW Dekalb, Stephenson, MLK, or Dunwoody ? I’m willing to bet your GIANT team has NOT even attempted to play any of them. GIANTS, huh? funny ,,, I guess a big-kid in the baby pool does look out of place,,, kind of like a GIANT,, go rent the movie “The ANT BULLY” it’s very fitting for you buford lil giants !!!!!!!!!
By bufordsooner
July 31, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this
Dear “MR. Shut UP Already” Thank you so much for your keen insight into highschool football and how just because of a schools size it limits their football team. Buford has and does play big schools,they are just another football team they canbe good be good or not. Don’t think there aren’t any good teams in smaller classifications? Call Charlton or Dublin you’ll find out. And lastly someone from Tucker talking about recruiting, take a deep breath, pause reflect, even you will have to admit how funny that really is!
By Vince
July 31, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this
Valdosta High may not be the Valdosta High of Wright Bazemore or Nick Hyder but Lowndes High under Randy McPhearson has become as lethal as old Valdosta High. So, Buford and any other North Ga team Martin stadium and Lowndes High are ready when you are.
By Vince
July 31, 2008 11:26 AM | Link to this
To Buford and all north Georgia teams: Martin stadium and Lowndes high are ready when you are.
By Habadoo
July 31, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Valdosta. Great Program!!*Buford, New but great program !!!
*Tattnall Square Great Program Equal to Buford Except State Championships TSA is like 14 out of the last 15.
*Statesboro Great Program. Only public school in town still playing AAAAA Competition. Areas like Statesboro the recruiting is not so easy without relocating. I was blessed to play football all over Ga. North Ga., South Ga., West Ga., East Ga, Alabama, Tennessee, Texas and Florida. I played for Private and public schools we won 3 region championships, 2 State championships and one national championship at 3 different schools. Recriuting is a fact of high school football and continues after high school. The recruiting is a great tool when done within the rules. I must say the toughest football is played in South Georgia.
By bufordsooner
July 31, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this
Vince, would love to come play either school. Fans of Buford would flock to see those games. Valdosta is truely deserving of the “titletown” award and it would be an honor to play there. Getting these three storied programs together would be an event every football fan should relish.
By mikemike
July 31, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
Well everyone know i a syrupmaker but who forgot about Thomas County Central won about 10 states champion game in south ga back 2 back really ok they was the best in Ga.
By mikemike
July 31, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this
Well everyone know i a syrupmaker but who forgot about Thomas County Central won about 10 states champion game in south ga back 2 back really ok they was the best in Ga.
By mikemike
July 31, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this
Well everyone know i a syrupmakers fan but why did everybody forgot a Thomas County Central Yellow Jackets who won about 10 states title back 2 back
By Ashleigh
July 31, 2008 4:46 PM | Link to this
Thomasville by far!!!
posted by a Thomas County Central student
By HeySoose
July 31, 2008 8:09 PM | Link to this
Waaa Waaaaa Waaaaa ! Valdosta is #1. Just because you’ve won a few state titles the past 4-5 years does not a decade make. Freaking whiners.
By Trailer Park Pete
July 31, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
Winder! Winder! Winder!
By Shut up ALREADY !!!!
July 31, 2008 9:40 PM | Link to this
Bufordsooner,,,,, why travel to Lowndes when Gwntt, Dekald, Cobb, and North Fulton have plenty of competition. But I must admit,, that i too would love to see a Buford vs. Lowndes, or NS-Warner Robbins, or Walton, or Marist, or many many others,,, even ECI(single A), or Dublin. The point is simple,,,, Buford is too BIG and well recuited to be in the lower level of play. It’d be awesome if Ga let all the champs battle it out for ONE TRUE STATE CHAMP !!! Strong program=true,,,,, giant==false !!!!!!! However,, i think the whole recuiting and helping parents PAY for tuition takes away from unity of community. It’s like, “look at our recuits this year !” followed by, “yeah and i hear there’s a kid from EAST COBB coming next year,, and his cousin from South Gwmntt.”
By Reeze
July 31, 2008 11:01 PM | Link to this
Yes could you just imagine Buford scheduling non-region matchups at NSWR or Lowndes , there would be 10,000 plus in attendance……Buford is a “big time program” that seems to shy away from the big times….I want to see them in middle or south Georgia for once
By Dekalb Football
July 31, 2008 11:36 PM | Link to this
I hear ya Reeze. You’re right “on” with the SHY AWAY part. I guess you’re the voice of “Reeze-on”. Corny i knoww but couldn’t resist. I follow Dekalb football mostly,, but good ball is good ball. Just think what Conrad could continue to do and for how long a Dynasty could last if kids ALL OVER Houston County could PAY to attend,,,, and surrounding counties to boot??? I tip my hat to middle Ga as well as South Ga,, What a game (come back) last year by NSWR ! Dat Tuck on deck!!!
Buford shouldn’t be so boastful and arrogant when the strength of their team comes from OUTSIDE their city, and county.
Have NSWR, Lownds, or Warner Robbins call Buford for a game. Tell ‘em, “don’t be shy.”
By true viking
July 31, 2008 11:42 PM | Link to this
I am very happy to see the negative and positive comments about Valdosta, Ga. winning title town usa because it shows that Valdosta is now on the map. Not only do the state of Ga. know about us, thanks to ESPN the whole nation (no the whole world) know about Lowndes High, Valdosta High, Valdosta University and all other high schools in Valdosta, Ga. Being a graduate of 1992, my daughter a future graduate of 2012 and my son graduating this year as an All-State and All-Region Corner Back from Lowndes High (KELLY DAWSEY #15) I could not be more proud that the city of Valdosta won such a hugh sports honor. Thanks to all that voted. And big ups to all the haters
By mistermak
August 1, 2008 3:52 AM | Link to this
Buford Buford Buford!! Enough already!! You guys are really proud of your ‘buford’!! It seems you are fanatical about it. Is it the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning? It is just ‘high school’ football!!! Any way Camden would whip Buford’s a__!!! I love venting on here!!
By Vince
August 1, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this
In that Corky Kell classic, why not invite Lowndes, Buford, Valdosta, NSWR, Lincoln Co. and Tattnall Square and settle this. It would sure be more interesting than watching Atlanta pro teams take their daily beating.
By kevius bass
August 1, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this
it seems like americus High school Panthers always seem to get left out of conversations whem it comes to titles and talents but they have won 6 championships from 1962 to present………
By slalom1
August 1, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this
TODD, Callaway is in Troup County, and their district includes part of the “old” LG district. The school is located about 5 miles from LG. But, you are also right in that ALL of the Hogansville students are in the Callaway district. By the same token, all of the West Point, Ga. students are in the Troup district.(Still in Troup County) The gripe I have with Muscogee County and Gwinnett County is that districts do not matter, as long as transportation is not an issue. In Troup County, you must reside in the district of the high school you attend.
By Title town
August 2, 2008 12:21 AM | Link to this
title town = Hickory Flat
By Mr. Cat
August 4, 2008 8:17 PM | Link to this
mistermak i really don’t think Valdosta cares what you think. you or the rest of georgia. to be honest with you valdosta is reloading so lookout.