Prep Zone

By Darryl Moore

July 28, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Valdosta is #1 !!!

By Mark

July 28, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this

Get your facts straight. Parkersburg WV was also featured and is driven solely by it 192 High School State Championships in 103 years.

By Ben

July 28, 2008 1:12 PM | Link to this

Parkersburg WV was ‘driven by High School Tradition’…so you may want to edit that part of your story. I think ESPN also mentioed Valdosta State as part of thier piece…so you may want to add that to your report as well.

By Herschel Talker

July 28, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

This entire ESPN promotion is stupid and absurd.

By Kathy

July 28, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

I went to school at Avondale and we always had a great football team in the mid sixties to mid seventies. If we made it to the playoffs or played for state titles Valdosta was always the school we feared.

By Mike F.

July 28, 2008 1:16 PM | Link to this

Having lived in Valdosta and attended VSU in the late 60’s early 70’s I have to agree whole heartedly. VSC as the university was known then was a regular conference champ in baseball and basketball, VHS was top dog in football and a power in other sports LHS was a football power and really good all round, Valwood was very competetive and Georgia Christian School in Dasher (just a few miles south of Valdosta) was a powerhouse in their classification. It was great going to the college and prep games because you almost always saw the local teams win and the reason was the support from the community. Lots of other towns and communities have had their turn in the spotlight but haven’t been able to stay there for all the years that the Valdosta-Lowndes County schools have. Valdosta is a great little city filled with wonderful friendly people and if I could have found a job in my field I would have never left.

By goober

July 28, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

Your headline writer had it wrong. Valdosta-Lowndes County is the King of ALL sports, not just high school. That’s what ESPN’s “Title Town” means.

And Mark, a congratulations would have been nice, instead of sour grapes about a team that didn’t win.

Thanks for the acknowledgement, Todd and AJC. We are proud to represent the entire state of Georgia with this award, including Atlanta.

By Scott

July 28, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

This award wasn’t based solely on high school sports. Valdosta State University also had a hand in this title as well as the enthusiasm and support of the community that loves all of its sporting teams.

By Cal

July 28, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Valdosta won fair and square. They deserve every bit of the glory. GO BLAZERS!!!!!

By jrh

July 28, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

Valdosta has always been a power house and has often been accused of recruiting for their high school team even to the point of finding jobs for parents who would bring their kids in to play ball. I have absolutely no proof of any of this information and maybe everybody is just tired of getting beat up on by Valdosta! They have always put a lot of suppor into all their sports and I do agree with ESPN’s selection.

By 21st century

July 28, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

Hey Kathy, That was 40 years ago and if I’m correct Avondale can hardly field a team anymore. I think they’ve won more than four games maybe once in the 20 years. Let’s all get the facts straight, Valdosta High School is ancient news and it’s time to move on to the present.

By Mick Yuille

July 28, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

This is not the right choice, because the VSU team isn’t even the best in division 2 right now. Grand Valley is way better than them. Sure VSU won last 2 of 4, but Grand Valley won last 4 of 6, and they did that in 4 out of 5 years from 2002-2006. Plus Grand Valley has won the director’s cup in 2004,2005,2006, and 2007, and runner up in 2002, and 2003. Plus they aren’t even the best high school, so this is absurd.

By TampaDawg

July 28, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

I didn’t even know Valdosta was in the running. What a great pick…..They have huge tradition down there and always put out great football teams. Before the whole Gwinnett crazy came about South Ga was where football was and still is today but not as heavy as Gwinnett is these days. Congrats Valdosta…..

Norcross High 05’

By SGT CHRIS

July 28, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Valdosta began winning football games before many of these schools had cities in which to reside in. so in that regard, I totally agree with the decision. There is only one name when it comes to high school football, and I am a Lagrange alum. Being on the field with valdosta alone is an experience in itself, so until SOME of you armchair quarterbacks can say that, let them have their day in peace!!

By Mark

July 28, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

No sour grapes here goober…just stating the writer didn’t have his facts straight.

By Gerald Barnes

July 28, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

There is no other town more deserving of this honor. I would like to direct you to a book called: The Road to the Big’s in which Valdosta is given full recognition as part of a larger story about kids, sports, and the greatness of America. Google: roadtothebigs

              GB

By swamprat

July 28, 2008 1:44 PM | Link to this

Guys, wait a minute. The article said “TITLE TOWN USA”, not football capital. And it is not just Valdosta High School, it includes other sporting venues, which is mentioned in the article. A couple state records were not mentioned in the article. Lowndes girls basketball team in the 70s and 80s won 126 consecutive games and 5 state chaMpionships. Also, a private school south of Valdosta, Dasher, boy’s basketball team won 125 consecutive games, also in the 70s and 80s, also with 5 state championships. I know because I was living there when that happened and attended every one of Lowndes’ home games during that strecht. They also forgot to mention that Lowndes football team has won the 5AAAAA state championship three of the past 4 years and including 2006 and 2007. Valdosta and Lowndes have also won several baseball championships. SO, CONGRATULATIONS TO VALDOSTA AND LOWNDES COUNTY FOR SUCH A HIGH AND DESERVING HONOR. VALDOSTA - MY HOME TOWN.

By Markysha

July 28, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

Congrats to VSU!!!! I can honestly say that I’m proud to be a BLAZER!

By SGT CHRIS

July 28, 2008 1:53 PM | Link to this

hey swamprat—-I would consider valdosta a FOOTBALL CAPITAL as well hehehe

By wayne

July 28, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

There are two high schools in Lowndes county. Valdosta-the city-is no longer the great program or the best in the area. That distinction now belongs to Lowndes COUNTY High school. Is Valdosta getting the award or is Lowndes County? Besides, it only counts if you won a championship recently. Last year does not count, unless you are ESPN. Only television can ruin a good thing.

By SGT CHRIS

July 28, 2008 1:56 PM | Link to this

IM WAITING ON EA SPORTS TO DO A HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL GAME IN THE MOLD OF THEIR NCAA FRANCHISE

By Matt

July 28, 2008 1:57 PM | Link to this

Jealousy is a disease 21st century. They are always in the playoffs. If I remember they barely lost in the semi’s last year. You should put on a jersey or meet me somewhere. Get your stuff straight if you want to talk sh*t.

By Marcus Johnson

July 28, 2008 2:00 PM | Link to this

To the person who said Grand Valley was better than VSU; did they EVEN make the championship game last year? The answer is no, and we went on to beat the team that beat them!

Besides, VSU was just part of the equation. Add to the fact that Lowndes has won a number of championships and Valdosta HS is the WINNINGEST PROGRAM IN THE NATION, and it is easy to see why ESPN chose us to be the winners.

Don’t hate, just CONGRATULATE!

By Tommy

July 28, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Valdosta what a great pick. I am proud grad of VSU and spent the better part of the 90’s there and and lived there again for a couple years the earlier part of this decade. It’s a well deserved award for an area with such a great tradition in sports

By michael

July 28, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this

of course valdosta is title town, i went to vsc!

By Billy

July 28, 2008 2:08 PM | Link to this

Very well deserved! Congrats Valdosta!!

By Atlchris

July 28, 2008 2:11 PM | Link to this

Not only has Valdosta/Lowndes Country won all those football titles in high school football, they’ve also won in college. Also, not only have they won those titles in high school football, they’ve done it against the best of the best teams in the State of Goergia(# 4 in college prospects).

By BigTimeGaTechFan

July 28, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this

Very stupid of ESPN: Title Town is Green Bay’s nick name, what the …. is ESPN thinking, could they not come up with something different. ESPN has lost it.

Nothing against Valdosta, congrats and very worthy, but don’t call it Title Town. Here we go with ESPN trying to make news instead of of reporting it.

By Rich

July 28, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this

Hmmm….Boston or Valdosta…tough choice

By Mike Bobo 17 INT

July 28, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Valdosta!!!!

You know who to win titles vs. statistics and you should be proud!!!

Nice!

By Reeze

July 28, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Valdosta ,truely deserving award…..Good that ESPN gave the award to local home grown athlete’s rather than college or Pro athletes …..I am shocked , I didn’t think Valdosta had a chance going up against the other finalists ,…..not that Valdosta didn’t deserve it ,but going against the likes of Columbus Ohio and the others…Incredible!…Finally the state of GA is getting the recogniton for it’s athletes thats long overdue.

By Brittney

July 28, 2008 2:19 PM | Link to this

I don’t think so. After doing research Valdosta ruled Georgia, but not the US. There were other towns featured that had more wins. Apparently Valdosta has just dedicated the last week to online voting, which will of course get them a win! If it were based on actual winning, no… they do not deserve it!

By THE BANDIT

July 28, 2008 2:22 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Valdosta.

By Brittney

July 28, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

I don’t think so. After doing research Valdosta ruled Georgia, but not the US. There were other towns featured that had more wins. Apparently Valdosta has just dedicated the last week to online voting, which will of course get them a win! If it were based on actual winning, no… they do not deserve it!

By Mike bobo-Outback Bowl MVP

July 28, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

I see my # 1 fan is back. How many passes in a row did I complete that day ? How many yards did my offense get against the mighty gaytors last year ?

Congrats Valdosta.

And to my biggest fan, enjoy the beatdowns this year. UGA RULES !!!!!

By Gerald Barnes

July 28, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

There is much more to the Valdosta story than is presented in this article and the comments on this page. The town, its fans, its resources, even its existence, are all improbable.

Again, I invite everyone to read The Road to the Big’s to get a more complete understanding of this exceptional town. Google: roadtothebigs

             GB

By abrown

July 28, 2008 2:45 PM | Link to this

Are all of you people reading the article?!?! Pleae re-read the article. It’s about the CUMULATIVE titles won in that particular town vs another town. It’s not about VSU-vs Grand Valley State. Or this school-vs-that school. All the titles in a particular town added together folks, that’s all!

Good grief Charlie Brown….

By Out of choices

July 28, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

I went to high school and played football at Tift County High. It is true that they have won that many titles….so in ignoring the rules and “recruiting high school players from across the nation by finding their fathers jobs” is the way you want to view a title holder by all means Valdosta is your man. Don’t get me wrong….they were and are good…just dishonest.

By jared

July 28, 2008 2:52 PM | Link to this

i agree with the decision that Valdosta is the number one sports town. I live in metro atlanta, and ever since i can remember Valdosta has been winning, and winning big!!

By JimmyRay

July 28, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

ESPN is starting to really suck! I can’t believe they took time away from reporting about Brett Favre to even have this silly little titletown CRAP!!

By Wes

July 28, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

Congrats to Valdosta. They can thank the high schools’ phenomenal history and success. Its great seeing teams work their way to the top rather than trading, recruiting, and dishing out millions of dollars to players who play for a money and not love. GA may be getting the recognition it deserves for its athletes!

By Are you kidding

July 28, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

Yes - titletown USA is a little place that 99% of the country has never heard of before. ESPN continues to be a joke of a network. What a crock!

By Big Daddy 1

July 28, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

ESPN SUCKS!

By Jea

July 28, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

All the hating up here is ridiculous. Apparently very few of you knew the guidelines for the award:To nominate a town, city or municipality, submit an essay or video explaining why your town should be crowned TitleTown USA. Judges will consider pride, passion, performance, heritage, history and tradition. This is what got cities nominated, not just performance. You can’t be mad at Valdosta; a- because people actually thought to get it nominated and b- you didn’t get enough votes for your city b/c your city didn’t vote. It is not that serious. BTW, as a Valdosta alum, Lowndes did not make Valdosta hince the ongoing rivalry. Lowndes is second fiddle and always will be especially considering Valdosta’s consecutive record.

By BravesFan79

July 28, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

I know firsthand Valdosta recruits kids out of middleschool to come play there. I was friends with a girl who had a older brother who was a BIG guy and all i know is they packed up the whole family and moved to valdosta from Douglasville…. JUST to play highschool football.

By Paul W

July 28, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

To “Out of Choices”- shame on you for showing your sour grapes. My children went to Tiftarea and competed with Valwood, who hasn’t contributed much to this award lately, but I still recognize what that town has done.

One of my daughters is a VSU cheerleader and the other dates a former State Champion from Valdosta High, so I am proud of the award, and I’m proud that the Title is in Georgia. I attended the Valdosta-Lowndes football game in 1976 and I still have never seen anything like it.

I played HS football in Middle Georgia in the mid-seventies- won 2 Region Championships- but I must admit, if they had scheduled us against Valdosta High during that time, I would have refused to get on the bus. So let’s give them their due.

Way to go Valdosta.

By RamblinLonghorn

July 28, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

God, this is just as stupid as the “Who’s Now?” idiocy they aired a while back.

ESPN Extremely Subjective Poll Network

By Tiffany

July 28, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

As a proud 2004 graduate of Valdosta State University, I am happy Valdosta won the TitleTown USA honor. I too didn’t think it had much of a chance up against other bigger cities but Valdosta is definitely deserving of the honor. Now, if VSU would only have had that nice parking garage and apartment style dorms when I was there. :)

By Babies

July 28, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this

I cannot believe the people crying on this blog. Congrats to Valdosta. Let it be. Good lord, hard for people to be happy for others.

By TacoBellManager

July 28, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

I mean absolutely zero disrespect to Valdosta or anyone who lives there or who has played for any of its championship teams. But this series — trundle out a bunch of people to cheer for a studio set — was utter crap. If ESPN wants to put undignified kewpie-doll cheerleading on the screen, that’s its prerogative I suppose, but seeing everyone else stage a pep rally for the Worldwide Leader was just sad.

By stan

July 28, 2008 3:11 PM | Link to this

I’ve been to valdosta football games during the glory years of the late 70’s and early 80’s.. I felt like it was special when I attended the games.. I know the opposition thought that is was a specail place

By Paul W

July 28, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this

These haters are showing their knowledge of HISTORY- this is a well deserved award.

By THE Truth

July 28, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Congratulations to Valdosta, GA and Lowndes County for being the great championship-making machine you are.

All Georgia is proud of you!

By Here's a choice

July 28, 2008 3:14 PM | Link to this

Stop being sour! I’m glad a small town in South Georgia beat out all of the larger cities that were in the running. Be proud of a city in our state, don’t fish for negative aspects, bask in the positive ones.

By Jea

July 28, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

abrown nice response and britney you need to calm down.

By SportsFan

July 28, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

H.S. football Stats. I know this award is for all titles of all sports, but I just wanted to point this out… Is this wrong?

1.Valdosta Wildcats Georgia 829-188-34 2.Washington-Massillon Tigers Ohio 774-226-35 3.Male-Louisville Bulldogs Kentucky 771-291-35 4.Little Rock Central Tigers Arkansas 766-281-48 5.Mount Carmel Red Tornado Pennsylvania 755-273-59 5.Highlands-Fort Thomas Bluebirds Kentucky 755-222-26 6.McKinley-Canton Bulldogs Ohio 750-305-42 7.Parkersburg Big Red West Virginia 735-270-33

as of 12-16-06

By not VSU

July 28, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

Sorry Valdosta State fans —this title belongs to Valdosta High School —don’t try to lump your unworthy selves into the mix!

By Todd Holcomb

July 28, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

Parkersburg WV was also featured and is driven solely by it 192 High School State Championships in 103 years.

Sorry. Story is updated.

Also, I hope everyone understands that this is about sports titles overall and not limited to one sport. Valdosta High’s football team is the most famous sports outfit in Valdosta, but the success of Lowndes and Valdosta State in football and Lowndes High’s 122-game winning steak in girls basketball were critical in getting this award.

By Go Team Go

July 28, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

Congratulation to Valdosta

As a ‘99 VHS Grad & ‘03 VSU Grad, I am very proud of my hometown.

Go Valdosta Go

Our Winning Tradition Lives ON!!!!

By THE Truth

July 28, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

are you kidding? @ 3:03

Nobody’s kiddin’, kumquat.

ANYBODY that plays or played competitive HS football has heard of the Valdosta HS Wildcats. Now, add to that SUBSTANTIAL tradition the recent multiple state titles won by Lowndes HS and the D-II National titles won by Valdosta State University and you’ve connected the dots to Title Town USA!

By Hitman

July 28, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

I’m so happy ESPN made the right choice and named Valdosta Title Town. I’m so proud to have graduated from VSU. And for those of you that disagree, you’re just jealous because we won and you lost. But we knew we were going to win all along, because we always win. That’s why we got the award.

By darylj

July 28, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

yes parkersburg wv was in the running but when you consider that Parkersburg has a population of 280,000 compared to Valdosta’s 48 -50,000 the comparioson ends there. with 5 times the population its the spirit of valdosta which holds them above the rest! two 15,000 seat stadiums in a town of 50,000 30 state titles combined with valdosta-lowndes high in football and 6 national titles in valdosta high school then add 40 national titles with Valdosta state College? who can doubt the claim that Valdosta is titletown

By jevaris

July 28, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Figures a white school would be picked…wait until Obama is president and we’ll be front and center. Southwest Dekalb should have been there as well.

By Hank

July 28, 2008 3:42 PM | Link to this

Too bad Valdosta cant beat any of the Florida High Schools they play.

By thogwummpy

July 28, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

As an Atlanta native and VSU grad; kudos to my “second hometown” on winning this ESPN honor. Debate all you want, but living down there for four years and seeing the attitude up close—-there is no doubt that small town is something special. Maybe this next football season; the Blazers will start to get their fair due in the AJC Sports section! All Georgians should be proud of their little powerhouse down the South.

By jds

July 28, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

this might not bet the dumbest thing i’ve ever heard, but it is in the team picture.

By Brittney

July 28, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Calm down? Um… ok, then. I forgot to congratulate Valdosta on the win. I honestly don’t hate any of the teams in Valdosta. Don’t really care either. I just saw the news and knew what I know and that’s that. Have a great day!

Oh, and Congratulations Valdosta again. :o)

By Brittney

July 28, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

Calm down? Um… ok, then. I forgot to congratulate Valdosta on the win. I honestly don’t hate any of the teams in Valdosta. Don’t really care either. I just saw the news and knew what I know and that’s that. Have a great day!

Oh, and Congratulations Valdosta again. :o)

By Steve

July 28, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

What a joke. Valdosta residents had to stuff the ballot box, because no one in the country even knows of Valdosta except that people that travel from Atlanta to Florida or vice versa. Division II championships? Wow. Put any of the teams up against UGA, Florida, or any of the other SEC power house teams, and VSU will get their a** handed to them every time.

This promotion is almost as bad as the “Who’s Now?” crap they used to fill time on sportscenter last year. That’s all it means.

By Brittney

July 28, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

Calm down? Um… ok, didn’t know I was uptight. I’m not hatin on anyone. I have stats written down of all schools in this little comptition and I as stating a fact. Tell some of the haters to calm down!

By Supes

July 28, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

I live in GA but this is a joke.

Title Town USA is Boston (right now)

Pats, Celts and Sox are all winners and title winners, Bruins are playoff bound and their college team BC is pretty good in both football and basketball. Give the award to the place where in the last 5 or so years teams have dominated.

By Go 'Dosta

July 28, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Valdosta and very well deserved!

The people of Valdosta filled the stadium for a 15 second clip on ESPN showing their passion and pride. The people of Valdosta/Lowndes County view the state championships as their birthright.

Give them congratulations and don’t try to belittle their award because of jealousy. No other place in this state even comes close, so hats off to them for representing our state so well.

Its a good thing for the rest of us that Valdosta High School and Lowndes County High School do not merge; they might make the competition settle for 2nd place.

Two kids at VSU. Go Blazers as well!

By Nicole

July 28, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

I’m proud to say I went to VSU. I heard about VSU, VHS, LCHS…..Valdosta all together long before I enrolled. Great programS….NOT just football… so much negativity on here…but its ok… i guess you have to understand a lil history and actually see some it for yourself to give props where its due. GO BLAZERS!!!!!

By ROBERT

July 28, 2008 4:02 PM | Link to this

DEFINITELY YES!! VALDOSTA IS THE SOUL OF ATHLETICS. WE HAVE KIDS IN FLAG FOOTBALL RUNNING HIGH SCHOOL PLAYS. I REMEMBER COACH NICK HYDER COMING OUT TO OUR PRACTICES WHEN I WAS STILL IN BOY’S CLUB FLAG FOOTBALL. WHEN I WAS IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, EVERY FRIDAY, THE WILDCATS CAME TO OUR SCHOOL AND HELPED US WITH OUR SCHOOL WORK. YOU COULDN’T HELP BUT TO DREAM OF BEING A WILDCAT ONE DAY. I GOT TO PLAY FOR COACH HYDER FINALLY BEFORE HE DIED AND IT WAS A DREAM COME TRUE. YOU WOULDN’T APPRECIATE IT UNLESS YOU KNOW AND APPRECIATE THE GAME AND ITS HISTORY.

By Cairo

July 28, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Yes. I agree the championships tell it ALL. It said in ALL categories. I think 900 plus puts them at the top. As a VSU/VSC Alum I am proud of my college alumn town. GO BLAZERS!!!

By R. E. H.

July 28, 2008 4:04 PM | Link to this

Living in this region of the state it’s always been accepted here that there weren’t any other towns in the state that was even close, I played against more than a few from there in the 70’s who went on to star at UGA. mY FIRST H.S. baseball game was against the eventual state champs. It wasn’t bad enough that I was 15 playing left field at this level, but against the best there was almost scarred me.

By shankit

July 28, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

Hank You are partially correct. VHS’s overall record is 829 wins 188 losses, best record of any team in the country. 3 of the 188 losses were against Florida teams. However, if you go back 12 of the wins were against Florida teams. VHS quarterbacks also have a 6-0 record against the Gators going back to Belue, Lastinger and Talley, including a Cotton Bowl and National championship. One of the wins was against Lincoln who by the way won the Florida State Championship that year with only one loss to VHS. I guess that made VHS Ga. and Fla.state champions.

By A.S.

July 28, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Holy Smokes!

After watching the piece of Valdosta I thought they deserved TitleTown. They have amazing great football teams and records!

However, knowing ESPN I was thinking it would end up being NY or Boston.

GREAT WIN FOR THE BOYS IN GEORGIA!

By Buck Belue

July 28, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

I even had that Yankee John Kincade vote 127 times online for Valdosta.

By Jea

July 28, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

What a smart observation Steve, how about if VSU played the NY Giants… boy, what a game.

By John

July 28, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this

After 30 plus years in the computer industry in the Atlanta area I moved to Valdosta in January of 2006 to be near my grandkids. In April of 06 I lucked up and purchased season tickets to Lowndes HS football from a holder whose son had just graduated , 44 yard line, 2nd row end seats. What a great investment! HS football here is like college football, talked about all year long. The crowds are great and it is a wonderful family atmosphere. Visiting teams are respected and everyone has fun no matter who wins. And these country boys know how to HIT! Just ask North Gwinnett. ESPN not only looked at sports but also how the community was involved and that is how Valdosta walked away with the prize.

By Yasmine-Valdosta

July 28, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

GO VALDOSTA TITLETOWN USA! I am a proud graduate of VHS Class 0f 1993 and VSU Class of 1998 & 2001. A proud player of both softball teams. All of our pain, passion, sweat, tears, determination and tenacity has been fully acknowledged. Thanks ESPN for recognizing true champions! Some said we would never make it. But Hyder taught us NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER QUIT! Valdosta-The Land where Champions are BORN!!!!

By Chris

July 28, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

This is so gay. New York or Boston are DEFINETLY titletown USA this test will be bolded= Come on ESPN! Dont turn gay on me!!!

By THE Truth

July 28, 2008 4:19 PM | Link to this

Todd, I guess we can now forgive ESPN & Herb Crackstreit for the substantial slight to UGA football last season?

I didn’t think so.

By dale

July 28, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

Kirk Herbstreit named Boston title town, but an hour later he changed it to Valadosta to go along with the other folks.

He said it was very scary almost having to back up his own assertions.

By Really?

July 28, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this

Of course we all know this is BS. Right?

Right?

Cities have nicknames. Beantown, The Windy City, The City of Brotherly Love. It happens.

Detroit is HockeyTown, New York is The Big Apple and Green Bay is Title Town. It’s as simple as that. I don’t know how this confounds so many people. These towns got these nicknames organically, because people started using them more and more. Then it was commonplace.

The names weren’t granted by a cable television network. In fact, if I may say so, that just seems stupid. It seems like ESPN might have just been trying to…what’s it called? Oh! Boost ratings. Maybe they were trying to boost ratings during the slow summer months.

Simply because they decide that they want to pretend to give a city a new nickname (while stealing it from another city), doesn’t make it legitimate.

Seriously, people. Valdosta?

By dale

July 28, 2008 4:30 PM | Link to this

Chris, were you trying to bold something? Man you’re dumb.

By dbenford

July 28, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

ESPN is ridiculous. While I am glad this is gven to a GA city I couldn’t help but gag on every “TITLETOWN” segment, much the same as I did the “who is now” segment. ESPN has become such the corporate behometh that I pretty much dismise them. They have way too much power over the voting of the finals standings in Colege football

By Jea

July 28, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Really? with all do respect Valdosta is and will always be Winnersville, don’t get it twisted. Regardless to whatever ESPN decided to name their award, we are still Winnersville.

By Schasta in Valdosta

July 28, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Guys at the top; Ben and mark, you need learn how to read. This article clearly states that Parkersburg WV WAS driven by its High School titles.

By lindsay

July 28, 2008 4:38 PM | Link to this

WHY IS EVERYONE SO MAD AT ESPN??…IF YOU WANTED YOUR CITY TO WIN, YOU SHOULD HAVE VOTED..LIKE VALDOSTA AND OTHER CITIES IN GEORGIA DID! IT WAS THE VOTES ON TOP OF THE TITLES THAT MAKE VALDOSTA TITLETOWN!!

By Not a Native

July 28, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

The funny thing is everyone is saying that this town or that town should have won. The facts are that voting was open to everyone in the USA and that the title is given based on this voting. Towns ten times the size of Valdosta could not get enough of their own citizens to get behind thier teams and that is why they ARE NOT title town. I am not a native of Valdosta, but I have lived here for quite some time. I have never seen a city so CRAZY about football. This is why they are title town, not just because of their records… . ALSO an interesting note —in the movie REMEMBER THE TITIANS that school was the 2nd runner up to the national title. Who was #1? VALDOSTA!!! Way to go Title Town! I am proud to be a part of this great city.

By lindsay

July 28, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

WHY IS EVERYONE SO MAD AT ESPN??…IF YOU WANTED YOUR CITY TO WIN, YOU SHOULD HAVE VOTED..LIKE VALDOSTA AND OTHER CITIES IN GEORGIA DID! IT WAS THE VOTES ON TOP OF THE TITLES THAT MAKE VALDOSTA TITLETOWN!!

By Derrick

July 28, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

Too one-sided, they have only made an impact in one sport (football)!

By shankit

July 28, 2008 4:40 PM | Link to this

Our thanks from the Valdosta community to the Atlanta Journal for spoiling ESPN’s announcement this evening at 6:00 pm. You would do better reporting on your Loserville sports teams. I can’t hardly wait for Terrence’s comments about why Valdosta shouldn’t have won this title.

By Blazer08

July 28, 2008 4:44 PM | Link to this

“By not VSU

July 28, 2008 3:22 PM | Link to this

Sorry Valdosta State fans —this title belongs to Valdosta High School —don’t try to lump your unworthy selves into the mix!”

Without Valdosta State the city of valdosta would be just another run down south Georgia city. VSU brings in millions of dollars of revenue and provides the local high schools with the funding it needs to continue the traditional football powerhouse valdosta has become. Valdosta State has also been on national tv multiple times in the past couple years, valdosta high school has not been on TV since cable companies started broadcasting in color. This achievement is for everyone in valdosta not just a single high school that has done nothing in the past decade except replenish the population inside Lowndes County Prison.

By The Notorious RIG

July 28, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

Valdosta, GA…”In my mind, I’m already there!”

P.S. King James was a legend on the hardwood at VSU.

By sadsa

July 28, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

Valdosta? F*** awesome.

By Jea

July 28, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

lindsay and Not a Native, i could not agree more.

By Butterfly

July 28, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

I think it’s great for a community like Valdosta to win the titletown award. I also believe that the reason why we won is b/c we have so many ppl that wanted this that ppl never stopped voting :-). Great job VSU!!!

By Penguin

July 28, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

Gimme a break! Valdosta State University? Nobody’s ever heard of it. Definitely NOT powerhouse college sports! How utterly hilarious. How many former athletes are now in the pros? Who do they play? Definitely not nationally ranked teams! OMG! ESPN really screwed up this one.

By Josh

July 28, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

There is no doubt that Valdosta GA. has produced many of the countries finest athletes and by far has the most close nit fan base in the country. A pure power house.

By Bobby Colton

July 28, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

All I got to say is I’m glad I’m not a betting man. If that was the case, I would be on the street with no money, car, or food. I never dreamed that Valdosta would’ve had even a microscopic chance. This is a joke. Valdosta is Titletown USA? May I laugh now or later?

-Bobby-

By shankit

July 28, 2008 4:55 PM | Link to this

Blazer 08 and the comments from someone else. Neither of you represent this community with your slanderous remarks towards VHS and VSU. Both are fine institutions and have prevailed in spite of support from the likes of you two. Take your argument some where else and get off this web site, and let the people of this community enjoy this day.

By APRYLE

July 28, 2008 4:57 PM | Link to this

I am so excited that Valdosta’s finally getting recognition. CONGRATS!!! GO BLAZERS!!! VSU ALUMNI 04

By SF

July 28, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

ESPN’s Titletown was an idiotic bit designed to fill time during the slowest sports month of the year.

Congrats Valdosta, you just won a beauty contest at fat camp.

By Tomahawk Kris

July 28, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Who cares about West Virginia. Nothing buy trailer parks and meth labs.

By Tomahawk Kris

July 28, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Who cares about West Virginia. Nothing but trailer parks and meth labs.

By cspen

July 28, 2008 5:00 PM | Link to this

Congratulations Valdosta! Great people! Great town! Great Spirit! Valdosta all the way!!!!

By Bobby Colton

July 28, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this

What a joke!

By Old VHS foe

July 28, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

If you’ve ever been there, if you’ve ever played there, if you’ve prepared and contemplated the tradition and power behind the team you’re up against, then you like me will congratulate Valdosta on a well deserved earning of “Title Town”. On 4 Friday nights, ending 33 years ago, it was like stepping out of high school football into the college ranks. I can’t really say that I’ve been to a college game since that held a light, all things considered. I played on an opposing team that sent 3 players to the NFL, one who now possesses 4 SuperBowl rings, and still to this day, the games against Valdosta were defining events. There is no atmosphere like it. Congrats to storied program and Town.

By Andy

July 28, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

Congratulations to the city of Valdosta for this outstanding acomplishment. This town has exemplified excellence, sportmanship, and class for the Southern Football Experience and many other sports for High School and College for many decades. My son had the priviledge 0f playing against both Valdosta High and Lowndes a number of years ago and I remember the feeling walking into those football stadiums in awe. There is no greater place on the planet than Valdosta, Ga. and I agree 100% that they are TITLE TOWN USA. It all about tradition and living it !! You make us Georgians proud !!

By K

July 28, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

I wasn’t going to write anything directed at one individual, but after reading the post from Jevaris I have to. “Figures a white school would be picked…” What are you talking about? First of all, it wasn’t a school that was picked, and second, other than private schools, there isn’t a school in Valdosta that could be called a “white school.”

As for everyone complaining about the big cities that didn’t get the title. Here is the thing about Valdosta: It is driven by sports and by titles. When most people think about Boston, NY, LA, or the other larger cities, the first thing they think about is not sports. Is Valdosta known about all over the country? No, but when you find people who do know about it, you can bet that they are going to be talking about the sports history and all the titles.

When you have a town where 10% of all the people show up for the taping of the contest, or more than 25% of the town shows up for a single football game, then you know it is something special. All the big cities already have numerous other things they are known for, quit complaining about not winning this one, because Valdosta is TitleTown

By steve

July 28, 2008 5:06 PM | Link to this

I have nothing against Valdosta. They certainly have enjoyed a lot of success over the years.

However, I just think this “Title Town” promotion from ESPN is incredibly stupid and pointless. How many more promotional gimmicks can this network come up with?

I have long gotten tired of ESPN and its endless need for silly promotions. Why can’t they just cover sports anymore?

By Eddie

July 28, 2008 5:09 PM | Link to this

I think they made the right choice. I agree Valdosta should be