Prep Zone

By SportsFan31313

December 9, 2008 11:28 AM | Link to this

I believe that will be great for the best interest of both Schools. It’s neutral territory for both schools, more stadium seats for fans etc. My opinion is that all Finals should be played in the Dome.

By the real OLD GOLD

December 9, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

I kinda like it. The Dome is a fair, neutral site, and an awesome atmosphere for the players. Plus you get two games for the price of one on Friday, or three for the price of one of Saturday. GO CALHOUN YELLOW JACKETS!

By Jay Blaisdell

December 9, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

Way to big a venue. All the cheers, the chants and the wonderful ambiance that is high school playoff football gets swallowed up and lost inside that huge cave. Aside from the fact that grown men ( and boys) were meant to play tackle football outdoors on God’s green grass regardless of the weather, a collegiate venue with a nice, compact 30-35,000 seat capacity would suffice splendidly. Anything more than 40,000 seats is sort of a waste. — Ghost Dog

By BAMMAR

December 9, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

I think it is a great Idea for the championship games to be played in the Dome. I look forward to Peachtree Ridge winning and Mitchell Williford getting MVP for the game!

By PIT CREW LION

December 9, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Yes, it’s the right thing to do. Nobody should have a home field advantage in the finals. It’s also better for the sake of media coverage and other facilities to have it in the Dome. Nobody gets a weather advantage or disadvantage.

I wouldn’t mind if they alternated with a stadium with similar advantages in central or south Georgia, but nobody should get to play on their home field.

By Hambone

December 9, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

I feel that the site is very bias according to the GHSA the site was choosen as a Neutral Location!!! My alma mater Cairo High has problably one of the farthiest distances to travel for this game when the oppointent has much less travel involved. Our fans will turn out in masses so I am not concerned with lask of support it is more the scheduling of travel and expense of the travel. Not to mention having to find surfaces to practice on that simulates that surface. I like the idea of playing at a collegiate venue. Are there no stadiums in the Macon area that would support the turnouts. We have made it to the dome 5 times in the last 10 years most of which I was in attendance the pattern that I have seen is once your high school completes there game you leave the stadium to be with friends and family. A stadium that hold 20,000 people would be more than enough from what I have experienced.

By its on

December 9, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

The biggest game on the biggest stage. It can’t get no better. I hate Camden have to travel back to back weeks to play. Coffee had it rough as well, traveling 3 weeks in a row

By alan

December 9, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

It is the wrong move. It will in no way be neutral unless both teams are from Atlanta. It will put undue stress on the players traveling from the southernmost parts of Georgia. The move will also rob many lower income students of the chance to see their team play for a state title. And here in south GA many of those lower income students are African Americans who do not have the means to travel, especially in this rough economic time.

By bobbylee

December 9, 2008 12:05 PM | Link to this

All the games should be on Saturday. Some folk have to work and have a hard time getting off.

By Jarrett

December 9, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

INSANE The whole idea of high school football being played at a sanitized, NFL cavernous stadium like the Georgia Dome gives me a “pimped out” feeling. Trying to cram 5k people into a little country town’s stadium built for 3,000 people - standing on the roof tops of vehicles, and smelling the smoke of a run down concession stand is AMERICA in all its greatness. This Dome idea is just more corporate intrusion into the cozy feeling of home/away high school football.

By Gamer

December 9, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

Jarrett: You just described Statesboro High School stadium when they lost in the championship game to the Warner Robins Demon in 2005. Smokey, smelly, etc.

To all: Personally I like the Dome move. While excuses can be made prior to the champiosnhip concerning weather, home field advantage, etc. the dome site is great. Besides you can make it if you chose, an all day affair by watching other games.

To the blogger that asked about Macon as a central point for a championship game. They have a college size stadium that can easily handle 15,000 -20,0000 people. However, as i said my choice is the dome.

By fanman

December 9, 2008 12:42 PM | Link to this

The best part about them playing the state championship games at the dome is that ALL of the games will be televised. I have always hated that there would only be two of the five state championship games on television. Now, we can watch all five.

By Marshall

December 9, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

I really think a more neutral location would be Georgia Southern as the teams from the southern part of the state are put at a disadvantage due to travel,etc. I believe it would be more profitable for the schools involved also.

By Chris Whitfield

December 9, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

The GHSA can’t win for losing with a lot of fans in the state, but I think the dome is the best compromise for all involved.

Some people argue about playing indoors, and then those same people complain that a running team has an advantage over a passing team if it is raining for the finals. Again, though, like I said in my blog last week, I would love to see semis and finals in the Dome.

Some people complain about the travel for south Georgia teams, but if Cairo was hosting, I bet they wouldn’t be arguing about the travel that Flowery Branch would have to endure.

I would love to see a rotation basis since there are a lot of places in this state that could serve as the host for the event. Who wouldn’t love to see the finals Tween the Hedges or at that nice little stadium off of North Avenue. Heck, I’d drive down to Statesboro to Erk Russell’s prettiest little stadium in America to see Tucker and Marist play or Buford and Calhoun. It’s the finals, and if you build it, they will come.

By Brent

December 9, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

I think its great for the kids to get to play the championship in the dome. While it is probably bigger than it needs to be for these purposes, it gives these kids a chance to play on the same field they see on TV all the time. The same field where the Falcons play, where the SEC Championship is held, and where bowl games are played. Playing in the state championship is a special experience, and playing at the dome enhances that memory, in my opinion.

By Hurricane

December 9, 2008 12:49 PM | Link to this

I think playing all of the games in a neutral site like the Dome is a great idea. As it has been stated previously, most other states have taken this approach for many years. It just merely bring GA in line with what everyone else has been doing for years. It makes the logistics for televising games much easier than having to do it from five a smaller stadiums scattered all over the state. Plus, Atlanta is unmatched in GA when it comes to the infrastructure in place to host large numbers of people such as transportation, hotels, and restaurants.

If there is one negative, it’s because GA has no other large cities in the southern part of the state large enough to support a sizeable enough facility similar to the Dome, Grant Field, or Sanford Stadium. If there was such a facility in South GA, you could rotate the games between the GA Dome and that facility every other year. That would be fair to everyone where every other year the Metro Atlanta and North GA schools would have to travel south, and every other year, the South GA schools would have to travel north. Since we don’t have the necessary facilities in South GA at the moment to host it, we have to go with the next best thing in hosting the games at the GA Dome.

By Graysonfan

December 9, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

In the Dome for sure! So many times this year has a team been given a slight advantage to being at home. Playing in the Dome will produce the actual best team with no advantages. Why would any one not want to play there? It huge, the food is great, the players feel special. The ONLY REASON I COULD COME UP WITH IS SOME ONE WANTS THE CROWD ADVANTAGE. Now thats not truly winning the game and makes the team wanting it in their own stadium seem desperate.

By its on

December 9, 2008 1:00 PM | Link to this

I just don’t like to see South Ga. teams traveling every week to play a playoff game than have to turn back around and go to the dome. I like the championship game played in the Dome,but any South Ga. team makes it to the semi-finals need to play at home, so it will not be a disadvantage for them when they face a North Ga. team. North Ga. will always have the advantage in Dome because they don’t have to travel. Camden lost 3 days of practice because they came to Newnan for the semi-final and now how to leave Friday to play in the dome; they will lose friday because they will have to travel again. However, Ptree didn’t have to travel none in the playoff which gave them Saturday, Sunday and Friday to prepare.

By hurricanecamden

December 9, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

Well Hurricane you just gave me a project to work on and that is getting a facility built in south Georgia that can match the Dome. When it is done we do not want any excuses.

By hurricanecamden

December 9, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

Hey Brent The Dome is the home of the Camden County Wildcats and then the Atlanta Falcons! LOL

By 82DAWG

December 9, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

Awesome idea. Its like a bowl game for High Schoolers and their supporters. Plus there is no home field advantage, per se.

By hurricanecamden

December 9, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

its on Our boys handle traveling well. yes they are leaving on friday but they will practice friday and saturday.

By Columbia Blue

December 9, 2008 1:14 PM | Link to this

High School teams earn the right to play in the play-offs. I think it is a travesty that the Championship Game can not be played at home. For Camden, it is five and half hours to Atlanta from Kingsland. The cost of the trip can easily esculate to around 500.00 dollars. Basically the lower income people will not have the RIGHT to watch their team at home or a neutal sight that is closer. It is great for metro Atlanta schools. Heck they can play in the dome and be home in forty five minutes. It also allows metro teams to have bigger crowds. I do not have a huge problem with a neutral field as long as the game is played at a location that would be halway for both teams. If the Finals have to be played on a neutral field and presumming a South Ga and North Georgia team are in the Championship game, Warner Robins would be a great place to play. This would per say take the home game away from metro Atlanta Schools.

By Winner

December 9, 2008 1:15 PM | Link to this

No matter where the games are played @ fans are always going to have a legit argument. People need to understand it’s not going to be how you want it be; so why not have the biggest games @ the biggest venue. At the end of the day it’s all football, and it’s all played the same regardless of where you’re playing @.

By its on

December 9, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

I know they will,I was trying to even things up about the topic. Your post sounds good about move it from North to South each year if South had a place to host it. they will have walk through and film on friday and saturday. The little rest will help them.

By Pop

December 9, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Why not both…simi and final. I know the impact the dome has had on my son’s life, a memory always remembered. And as a young man, the dome game was as big as the state final in his memory (he has both). Now only half the boys (and classmates) get this experence. Shame. And about the home field advantage? The Ridge traveled every game its first time, and won. This time it was all at home. That gets old too. Excitement and antisipation can be found in travel. Overcome the disadvantage, and enjoy the ride.

By car3boogie

December 9, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

By just playing the finals in the Dome you take away the experience from 10 Communities. It is not just football it is an event to be enjoyed by the entire community. Our little town shut down for a game in the Semi Final in 2002 and 03. It was great……

By hurricanecamden

December 9, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

in my opinion the number 1, 2, and 3 in the state should not have to go anywhere unless they are playing each other. All other games, the top 3 in the state should have home field advantage.

By The Voice

December 9, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

Play them in Macon-Warner Robins. Henderson Stadium in Macon and McConnell-Talbot in Warner Robins could handle the crowds over a Friday and Saturday night. The Westside Stadium in Macon could be used for Single A. That ought to work fine if the Warner Robins schools have to play in Macon to prevent Northside or Warner Robins from playing on their home fields. You really don’t have to worry about a Macon school in the finals. This splits the North Georgia-South Georgia divide and would be an economic boast for Middle Georgia where as in Atlanta the high school football championships are nothing more than another convention over the week-end.

By GTinNashville

December 9, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

I think both sides of the argument is right. It is fair to play the championship on a neutral field, but how neutral is the field going to be if one team is from Atlanta and the other is from Savannah? I think the answer is Macon. It’s about halfway, and while you would end up with some “home” advantages, it would be more fair geographically.

We are having the same discussion right now in Tennessee. Right now all football championships are held in Murfreesboro, the geographical center of Tennessee. But everyone says that Nashville has a geographical advantage because they don’t have to travel, so now there is consideration of passing the host city around different parts of the state. The advantage Tennessee has over Georgia is that we have 4 large cities. GA has 1 large city, and then Macon.

By Hambone

December 9, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

I would have to agree with a rotation as the best solution but too realize that this is not possible. As for Cairo complaining I hardly see that the case we have gone wire to wire this year in the number one spot and we traveled last week due to the coin toss which is how that should have been handled due to 2 teams both deserving to represnt their community.

Weather should not be taken into factor that is something that is apart of every sport. When you think of the kids being so intrigued about playing where the NFL and SEC guys play look at the fan base for that level its national. There are Florida and Alabama fans in Atlanta an LA we are talking about giving as many people from towns (some have a few thousand)a fair opportunity to support and represent there community and as many family and friends to support each individual athlete on the team as well as bands and cheerleaders.

The blogger above noted the finacial difficulty associated for many that make this trip and some simply cant afford it. As for the Cairo folks each year that we have been fortunate enough to make the Dome trip local individuals as well as businesses all pay a fee and rent charter buses to allow as many folks to make the trip as possible. Just an idea for other communities in the future.

By Marc

December 9, 2008 1:58 PM | Link to this

The biggest game should be played on a grand stage. In 2006, Roswell didn’t get to play at home. They had to play the championship at Lassiter because their stadium wasn’t big enough. Like that is a home field advantage. So what’s the difference in going to Maritetta or going to the dome? The GHSA has a lot of stupid ideas, but playing the title in the dome isn’t one of them.

By Eh?

December 9, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

For all this talk of “home field advantage” for teams in North Georgia when playing in the Dome, does anyone have any stats to back up this claim????

By Coffeefan

December 9, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

South Georgia could host the State Finals without a problem in my opinion. Valdosta State University Would be a great site to hold the championship games. I agree with the other posters who would like the games to rotate between South and North Georgia. VSU has a stadium that is only a few years old and the teams would get the honor of playing on the same field as the winningest high school football team in the nation and a college team who has won multiple National Championships.

By VikingConqueror

December 9, 2008 2:14 PM | Link to this

Pop

It sounds like those Dome experiences made for some terrific memories for the “old man”, too! Great post.

By Winner

December 9, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

Regardless of where the game is being played people are going to always complain. I think it’s a disservice for one undefeated team to have to play on another undefeated team home field in the championship game. Not saying the outcome would’ve been different, but i think last years 5A championship game would’ve been more competitive if played in the GA Dome.

By me

December 9, 2008 2:31 PM | Link to this

All the championship games should be played on grass. They need to play the games and UGA, GT, and Georgia Southern.

By vincent

December 9, 2008 2:35 PM | Link to this

CoffeeFan, VSU has no stadium.

VSU plays their home games on Cleveland Field at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium.

By bobbylee

December 9, 2008 2:44 PM | Link to this

Let’s have em’ at Joe Robbie in Miami, South Beach baby !!!

By SOUTH FOOTBALL FAN

December 9, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

The fairest method would be to alternate every year between the DOME and Ga Southern Stadium. Even better for Camden Fans would be the DOME one year and Jacksonville Municipal Stadium the next.

Distance to the DOME per Google: Camden High 337 miles 5 hr 19 min Valdosta High 227 miles 3 hr 43 min Bainbridge High 235 miles 4 hrs 18 min Cario High 248 miles 4 hrs 16 min Charlton High 288 miles 5 hrs 5 min

By Terry

December 9, 2008 2:48 PM | Link to this

From a fan’s standpoint, the Dome is great! The weather is great! No ice cold metal seat to sit on! No rain or cold! Great seating! No standing on the fence in the end zone because there is not enough seating. Replays on the big Jumbotron. You get three games on Saturday for the price of one! Note: I don’t live in Atlanta and will be traveling over 100 miles each day for the the games. Thank you, GHSA!

By HoyaDawg

December 9, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

Play the games in the dome. You have an awesome place like the GA. Dome to play the Highschool championship, Why would anybody be complainig. The sec. championship game was just played there, because it is a great place to play football. A controled enviroment makes the game equal for all teams.People who say the games should be played on gress, know very little about field turf. The CSS announcers continue to call it astro turf. Field turf is basicly grass. You wear the same shoes that you would on grass.

By Metro Money

December 9, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

The game needs to be rotated (Dome, Macon, VSU, GSU, Savannah State, Between the Hedges). Teams coming out of the four corners of GA will have to travel at some point, but when you have to travel 1200 miles in two weeks, the unfortunate folks who work hard for their money just can’t afford it. If you live in the Metro Area of Atlanta, the Dome is easy to travel to and most of your fans will be able to travel there, but put yourself in the shoes of someone who lives in one of the four corners of GA, especially the southern corners.

By AndyCamden

December 9, 2008 3:00 PM | Link to this

I’ve been saying either hold the Semi-finals at Georgia Southern University and the Finals in the dome or rotate final games between GSU and the Dome every other year.
I heard a whole bunch of people saying that they couldn’t make both the Newnan and the Dome game because of financial and work-time constraints.

By HoyasRock

December 9, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

Want to make it fair? Have the team bus’s of each team drive to the oposing school and then to the dome. That way they drive the same distance. Wait no the eco nuts will object to wasting gas and polluting the air!

By readyforsomefootball

December 9, 2008 3:05 PM | Link to this

To quote The Rock, “It doesn’t matter what you think!” The GHSA always has and always will do what they want to do regardless of what anyone outside the perimeter thinks. There are two Georgia’s and when the Atlanta folks decide they are in favor of something, you sit back and make the best of it. But to say the Dome is a neutral field is laughable.

By will

December 9, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

I DO NOT like that the GHSA has moved the finals to the dome. It is not right for the schools in South GA. The semi-finals was ok but not the state game. But as everyone knows you have to do what the GHSA & their Atlanta buddies want them to do!!!

By Not Rosy

December 9, 2008 3:15 PM | Link to this

Having the game in the biggest possible venue - Thumbs up.

Having the venue rotate - Thumbs up.

Having the titles or semi in the Dome year after year - smells like…

Think about travel times and money required for some of the smaller schools and their families.

Give the kids the big stage, but rotate it between North, South, East and West!

By Gamer

December 9, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

While I favor the Dome over other suggestions. I see on a rotation basis, Georgia Southern, Valdosta State, Macon, and Savannah have been mentioned. However, don’t forget about the western part of the state. Columbus Memorial State is beautiful—huge. Also, Albany State University has a new stadium.

By sparky

December 9, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

HATE IT But I will be there

By To Will

December 9, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

Will would these venues work? North the Georgia Dome Atlanta, West the Columbus Dome, East the Augusta Dome and South, well guess the game will be played in an indoor roping area somewhere near Brunswick.

By jman

December 9, 2008 3:40 PM | Link to this

WHATEVER THE KIDS WANT TO DO THAT ARE PLAYING THE GAME IS WHAT SHOULD BE DONE. FOR SOME OF THEM, IT IS A ONCE IN A LIFETIME OPPORTUNITY TO PLAY IN THE DOME. THINK ABOUT THE KIDS AND NOT SO MUCH ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHAT USE TO BE.

By Fred C.

December 9, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

I believe that the championship games should be played at a neutral site near the teams involved, not in the dome. It is unfair to the fans that have followed the teams all year to have to make an expensive trip to Atlanta to see the final game. If there happen to be two teams out of the north Georgia area, then fine, let them play in the dome. If, as has happened in the past, Lowndes and Valdosta (for example) are the two finalists, they should play in South Georgia. Not everyone wants to go to Atlanta!

By AJC Freelancer

December 9, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

This is a lost cause. I’ll hear the arguments for football championship games in a central location when I also hear the arguments made for other sports. Nobody seems to complain that an Augusta or Savannah school must travel to Columbus or Gwinnett or Jefferson or anywhere else where state team or individual state finals are held. For 90% of these kids it will be the first and last time they play on the field where their idols play every Sunday. Give them that, gas up whatever you drive and spend the weekend in Atlanta. It’s worth it for the kids.

By KEN WEBB

December 9, 2008 4:06 PM | Link to this

Well, I think it’s just absolutely crazy to play a high school state championship in a professional atmosphere. Its differently takes away from the atmosphere of high school football on Friday nights. The semifinals was a good thing for the kids to take part in. But the STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SHOULD BE PLAYED ON A HIGH SCHOOL FIELD AT A HIGH SCHOOL THAT HAS DONE WHAT THEY NEEDED TO DO TO HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO HOST THE HIGHEST ACOMPLISHMENT IN HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL(THE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP). I hope like hell no-one shows up and the GHSA loses out their a* as far as gate proceeds go. I will never attend a Ga high school state football championship again as long as it is in the DOME. THANKS KEN

By bohgey

December 9, 2008 4:08 PM | Link to this

I’m a little torn. I enjoyed watching the state championship game at Lowndes High three different times. It was close for us and the stadium has the capacity to handle crowds from anywhere in the state.

However, the entire notion of home field advantage throws these games way off. I wasn’t able to be in Loganville for the Lowndes/Grayson game, and since the Vikings really made it more than a one-man show, (please note, that is sarcasm), I can’t say for certain, but a little influence from a crowd gets in these ref’s heads. The Vikings didn’t play that well, and Grayson was good, I’ll hand them that. However, I did hear from friends that went to the game, the officiating stunk. I was listening to the LHS radio broadcast and they were complaining about the calls, but they are biased. They all said the ball spotting and the early movements by Grayson kept drives going. There was even a caller from East Paulding that confirmed they thought the same thing from the week before. I just think that with a game on the line like the state finals, neutral fields level things off.

Just to address this; I’ve read a lot of posts on here about the idea that Lowndes pays their officials. I don’t see it because I’m a Lowndes fan. Maybe it seems that way. I hope that isn’t an included fee in our season tickets. And seriously, I’m not implying that Grayson paid these refs, but just like anyone else, they certainly didn’t refuse the generosity. I guess I shouldn’t expect more, I mean officiating isn’t a glamorous job on the high school level.

I like the idea of moving the game from venue to venue. It would get these kids able to play in places like Athens or at Bobby Dodd. Florida rotates the state championship venues, and it is fair for all,(At least they have in the past). Unfortunately, Georgia only has a couple of stadiums big enough to hold these games. The catch, they are all in the northern part of the state. So, what is the difference? The biggest stage in Georgia for football is the dome. Until someone can come up with a smoother idea, that is where we are.

By the way itson, so many teams from the south are consistently good and go deep in the playoffs. There are more Atlanta area teams by volume, so we are bound to travel. Rotating it would be good, but the Coffeefan’s idea is blown out because VSU does play at Bazemore-Hyder. Which is incredibly ridiculous for a team that has won two recent national titles. If VSU does decide to build their own stadium, that might be the ideal place to have a rotationing final.

By tony

December 9, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this

who cares where they play just play the game. those kids from cairo don’t mind traveling as a matter of fact they look forward to it. i am from cairo and i know i used to look forward to travel every chance i got.also most of the fans love the chance for quick weekend trip to the atl.

By Ken Webb

December 9, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

Hey, I’ve got one for you. If the GHSA is going to play the state football championship in the dome. then why not play the baseball state championship at Turner Field, the state basketball championship at Phillips Arena and so on. Why stop at the football programs HELL do all of them if you are going to do it. Whats good for one group of kids is good enough for all of the kids.

By pirate

December 9, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

Two problems with the Dome.

1. It is only convenient to teams in the metro Atlanta area which means they have the least expense, most fans, and miss less classroom time than the schools not in that area.

2. The Dome is far too large and expensive to operate for this event. PBA televises the games and they can televise from anywhere.

   I would suggest a site closer to the center of the state, and there are such sites available. That would save much of the hotel, motel, restaurant, parking, and service station money for the out of metro area teams and fans, in addition to the convenience.

By John M

December 9, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

There have been several excellent suggestions so far. In Div II-A football it’s a homefield playoff all the way to the finals. But they have money high schools don’t. So I would have to side with the idea of a rotating location for the finals between the Dome, Statesboro, and Macon or Valdosta. Just recognize that only the Dome is inside. But that’s okay, because football is an OUTDOOR game. Rotating sites is the only fair solution across the state as new schools are added everywhere. But since it’s a good and fair idea, I doubt the GHSA would even consider it.

By HoyasRock

December 9, 2008 4:37 PM | Link to this

But the STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SHOULD BE PLAYED ON A HIGH SCHOOL FIELD AT A HIGH SCHOOL

Do you know how many tickets will be sold this weekend for this game? A lot more than can be sold at a high school thats for sure. If properly divided up its got to be good for our education system.

By HoyasRock

December 9, 2008 4:42 PM | Link to this

However, I did hear from friends that went to the game, the officiating stunk.

Yes it did and if it had been beter Loundes would have gotten a lot more penalties, yeah maybe Grayson would have had a few more holding and offsides, but Loundes would have had lost the most yardage.

By HoyasRock

December 9, 2008 4:47 PM | Link to this

PBA televises the games and they can televise from anywhere.

What’s the Pro Bowlers Association doing broadcasting a Georgia High School Football game? Oh you must mean the Public Broadcasting Service, but the PBA could do a better job. At least it wouldn’t sound like golf. You might have to put up with an explaination of the playing surface though.

By South Georgia

December 9, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

If the Dome is going to be the home of the State Championship games then the GHSA should eliminate the coin flips for the lower rounds and give those games to the southern teams. Traveling 3 or 4 times to metro Atlanta for Friday night games is unrealistic for So. Ga. teams. The Dome is NOT a neutral site it is a high profile dome in Atlanta but far from a centrally located neutral site.

By henry green

December 9, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

I’m sure the player want to play in the DOME!

By DecaturTechFan

December 9, 2008 4:59 PM | Link to this

Everyone that votes for this is obviously from the Atlanta area. Your weak schools and weak coaches have no answer for S Ga football at ANY classification with the exception of Buford High, which is far enough removed from the ATL not to count. This is how you try to even the playing field? In 80’s and 90’s, it was Valdosta and Moultrie stomping your weak arses. now its Camden and Lowndes…..pathetic. Just pathetic. What lesson are you teaching your kids by having this here…..You are weak……accept it.

By EB Mizzou

December 9, 2008 5:25 PM | Link to this

Finals in the dome sucks donkeyballz for kids from Camden County and Cairo and other south Georgia schools. It’s also a shame to remove to another, supposedly neutral, location what would be the event of the year in those communities.

By Really?

December 9, 2008 5:28 PM | Link to this

Do you people HONESTLY care that much about HIGH SCHOOL football…? This isn’t Texas.. Georgia citizens have lives outside of High School football.. who cares where it is played.. Atlanta is the CENTRAL area in Georgia.. your never going to make everyone happy.. so who gives a crud.. get over it and watch College Football.. Geez… Adults that care about high school football need to grow up.. and kids that care about where a game is played need to learn stuff bout football

By pirate

December 9, 2008 5:29 PM | Link to this

HoyasRock….You got me. The A and S keys are next to each other and I goofed. Throw the flag, I deserve it.

By BODOG

December 9, 2008 5:41 PM | Link to this

TODD, THIS IS AN OLD ISSUE THAT HAS BEEN AROUND A WHILE……BUT I THINK THE ONE KEY INGREDIENT IS THE FACT THAT THE SCHOOLS PLAYING EACH OTHER IN THE FINALS DO NOT GET THE NECESSARY REVENUE FROM PLAYING AT THE DOME ; AS THEY WOULD AT HOME. PLUS YOU DO NOT HAVE THE FAMILY, CLOSE, HOMETOWN ATMOSPHERE. ALL THAT TO ME IS LOST IN DOME. THESE THINGS I HAVE MENTIONED CANNOT BE REPLACED….IT IS LIKE AN OLD STORY I HEARD WHICH IS TRUE. THIS GENTLEMAN OWNED A VERY SMALL LOCAL PIZZA PARLOR. HIS FOOD, AND SERVICE WAS OUTSTANDING.. SOON THERE BECAME NOT ENOUGH ROOM TO SERVE THE EVER GROWING CUSTOMERS. SOMEONE SUGGESTED HE SHOULD ADD ON TO HIS PARLOR TO ACCOMODATE THE CUSTOMERS. HE DOUBLED HIS DINING SPACE, AND SOMEHOW IT WAS NEVER THE SAME. THERE WAS AN ELBO RUBBING CLOSENESS THAT WAS FORRVRT DESTROYED, AND HE WOUND UP CLOSING IN 4 YEARS…..

By Yo

December 9, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

I think its a great idea as long as the purse is prorated according to distance traveled to get there. Help offset the expenses for those having to travel so far. Example: Peachtree ridge travels 50 miles and Camden travels 300 miles. The Ridge would get 1/7 of the gate and Camden would get 6/7. I bet if you did that suddenly everybodies opinions would reverse real quick.

By Yo

December 9, 2008 5:47 PM | Link to this

HoyasRock or maybe you would have seen the saner side of Lowndes if the refs were to throw the flag. Think about it.

By BODOG

December 9, 2008 5:51 PM | Link to this

TO REALLY…… TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTION! THIS AIN’T TEXAS, AND YOU AIN’T SANTA!!!! PEOPLE OF ALL AGES ENJOY GEORGIA HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL EVERY YEAR, AND FOR THE RECORD THEY WILL CONTINUE AS LONG AS WE HAVE THE FREEDOM TO DO SO(WHICH IS IN DOUBT) HOWEVER; I RESPECT YOUR CHOICE TO WATCH COLLEGE OR PRO FOOTBALL OR ANYTHING ELSE, BUT DON’T COME DOWN ON A LOT OF HONEST FUN LOVING GEORGIANS THAT LOVE HIGHSCHOOL FOOTBALL…THAT’S OVER THE TOP……IT’S OUR CHOICE AS TO WHAT WE WANT TO DO , AND I AM SURE I’M SPEAKING FOR MANY M ANY GEORGIANS, AND AJC SPORTS WRITERS THAT SIMPLY ENJOY HIGHSCHOOL FOOTBALL……..

By Yo

December 9, 2008 5:53 PM | Link to this

Do you HONESTLY care that much about HIGH SCHOOL football…? YES This isn’t Texas Praise God! adults that care about high school football need to grow uo Would taking the time to post on a high school football blog constitute caring?

By CoastDog

December 9, 2008 6:03 PM | Link to this

Atlanta and the Atlanta media thinks everything important in Georgia should be in Atlanta and you yokels from other places should be happy that you have an opportunity to perform for them.

By Band Mom Gone Wild

December 9, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

I am sooooo happy that the game is at the Dome with lots and lots of room and lots and lots of security. How many of you attended the P’tree Ridge/Roswell final game in 2006? It was a NIGHTMARE! Now I know it’s probably hard to imagine, but when it comes to the safety of our band kids, I can turn into the nastiest Band Mom you’ll ever see! The stadium was oversold by hundreds of tickets. Several adults I encountered were wasted. (Hmmm…drinking at a tail gate party that’s taking place in a high school parking lot while waiting for a high school game. Really classy!) Then there were the rude and thoughtless adults who were mad that they didn’t have a seat (because they spent too much time in the parking lot tail gating). I almost got popped by this obnoxious teenager who insisted he could go anywhere he wanted (even in the band’s area)… a teacher who knew him grabbed him by the back of his collar, stopping him with a “Dude, it will NOT be worth it.” I got in a shouting match with this drunk dude who kept insisting on standing right in front of the band while they were supposed to be playing. My husband high-tailed it down from the stands to let the inebriated a-hole know that yelling and screaming at his wife two inches away from her face was a big no-no. You’d of been proud of me…I stood my ground and he stayed away from our kids! Of course the sheriff’s deputies coming and standing guard around the band helped a tad. (Mind you they only came over because we, the band chaperones, insisted they come and help us with crowd control. Otherwise we were on our own.) Then there was the young lady in our band who had a horrible asthma attack. When I asked the security people for the EMTs he said “Huh? You want me to call them all the way up here? For what?” Upon questioning him further I discovered there was no rescue unit stationed at the school. (Oh, but it was about a mile away at the fire house!) I’m telling you, it was a NIGHTMARE!

I can’t WAIT to go to the Dome for this game! Can you believe it’s only Tuesday? This week is dddddrrraaaaaggggging!!!

Luv ya Lions!!!

By Ken

December 9, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

it is by far the best solution. There is no HS venue in GA that can handle even a AA final game. The Dome is the answer and the finals should be played there until the new stadium is built…then move it there.

By Wayne

December 9, 2008 6:40 PM | Link to this

IT IS ALL ABOUT THE MONEY. Atlanta gets all the major revenue benefits. The local towns lose it all. The fat cow gets fatter.

By TO bohgey and questionable ref

December 9, 2008 6:41 PM | Link to this

bohgey, the officals do not come with the field. the officals are assigned. the coaches nor schools have a say who will be in the officating crew. also the replay of the grayson / lowndes game not once showed the grayson players moving early (without a penalty). lowndes and east pauling people were apparently not use to seeing that kind of quickness. and paying the refs; give us a break. no school administrator or coach would risk their career on something that stupid. the only time i have ever witnessed a ref, i believe purposefully aiding a team was years ago when parkview was playing (i think) colquitt county in the dome semis. it was late in the game and parkview was behind by less than a touchdown. they had just gone for it on fourth down near mid-field and the chains were being brought out. i never carry binoculars to a game but for some reason did that day. for some reason i zoomed in on the offical as he went to the sideline. he bent down and placed a clip on the chain at the nearest white yard line so when the chain gets out to the ball the chain can be placed in the same position and an accurate measurement can be made. the clip is placed on the edge of the white yard line and is supposed to be placed on the same edge when the chain gets to the ball. as i was watching through my binoculars, the offical placed the clip on the edge of the white yard line that parkview was heading but when he got to the ball he placed the clip on the edge of the white from which parkview was coming. note the yard lines in the dome are about six inches wide. this made the first down chain basically 9 feet 30 inches for that parkview measurement. parkview made the first down by a couple of inches. they continued to drive down the field and scored the winning touchdown. i realize folks will think i’m nuts but that is what i saw and it would be interesting if the game film is still around and can provide the detail to support this observation. i just sat wondering if i really just saw what i thought i saw.

By Marc

December 9, 2008 6:47 PM | Link to this

First the idea that the disadvantage students from the southern part of the state have a more difficulty getting to the game at the dome but the same kids from the north having to travel south don’t is absurd!!!

Second while the fans are important who is this game about? The players, band and cheerleaders but first and foremost the players. This is many cases is the highlight of a lifetime. Being one of the best in the state and playing at the DOME not some podunk high school stadium - no disrespect but the nicest high school stadium still isn’t the dome. I caparoned one of my kids T-Ball teams to Atlanta-Fulton County stadium and they got to parade around the field and play a scrimmage and the kids were blown away (so was I) and they weren’t old enough to really understand what was going on.

By BILLY JACK

December 9, 2008 6:49 PM | Link to this

TEXAS PLAYS IN TEXAS STADIUM-ALABAMA PLAYS AT LEGION FIELD-ITS NATURAL THAT GA PLAYS ITS FINALS IN THE DOME-PLUS THE PLAYERS LOVE IT.THOSE ARE THE FACTS AND THEY ARE UNDISPUTED.GET USED TO IT BECAUSE ITS NOT GOING TO CHANGE.GO P RIDGE

By To Really and Yo

December 9, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this

If this was Texas you wouldn’t be having that blog exchange. In Texas they play neutral field throughout the play-offs except for recent years the finals are at a revolving site. Other than the finals, the two teams each week determine the site and which will be the ‘home’ team. Not certain but I think this year their finals will be played at the Reliant Stadium in Houston (home of the Houston Texans). Now for you travel whinners if your high school was in El Paso that would be about a 1,700 mile round trip to Houston and back. Other locations I think they have used are Texas Stadium (Cowboys) and the Alamo Dome in San Antonio. There seem to be a couple of transplanted Texans on these blogs and they can verify.

By WACO-FAN

December 9, 2008 6:59 PM | Link to this

i say its good 2 have the championship in the dome..i have been to championship games where its real uncomfortable where u sitting elbow 2 elbow and getting to the concession stand and restrooms are real impossible and it makes the experience bad in my opinion..also in 94 we was one of the teams who made it to the dome the first year..i was like 12 and i remember how it felt just being their as a kid looking around and now i see that same look in the eye of my younger cousins who would jump for joy if i said lets go to the dome this fri or sat….so for all you adults who was adults in 94’ ask your kids or any kids in your community would they rather go 2 the dome or the local community college field

By Yo

December 9, 2008 7:18 PM | Link to this

Is Texas in America or Mexico?

By Dave

December 9, 2008 7:40 PM | Link to this

What’s not fair is an undefeated team having to travel six hours to a 4,000 seat smaller stadium, with no parking, a mud pit for a field, inadequate (actually none) pressbox space for visiting radio (which should be down right embarrassing for any host of a sporting event…visiting media are your GUEST. Camden put their own broadcasters on the roof of the pressbox and gave up their own for their GUESTS earlier in the year when there were two extra tv/radio broadcasters carrying the game).

There was an alternative to the Drake Stadium fiasco. Camden County had ample parking, seating, drainage, field turf, Press box space for GUESTS, and a scoreboard on both ends so the quarterback doesn’t have to turn around for half the game to see the clock.

When both Newnan and Camden were undefeated, why couldn’t GHSA pick the, clearly superior facility to host THEIR Semi-final game? How long would it take to send a representative to both facilities and evaluate? The Newnan Cougars deserved to host the game as much as the Wildcats…however not more than the Wildcats. Drake stadium did NOT deserve to host the game, while Chris Gilman Stadium did.

By Reeze

December 9, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this

Big mistake taking the semi’s away from the Dome….20 teams 10 games very profitable,more exposure for the kids on the field….One good example is that the only Semi televised state wide this year was Newnan/Camden,without satelite CSS not availiable in middle Ga. and other spots in state…..The best thing to do is have the semi’s at the dome ,and if we must play the championships at a neutral sites play the championship games at neutal sites in close proximity (half way points) to both teams that will support large crowds …Example Ptridge vs Camden this could be played in Statesboro (GA. Southern) or Cairo vs Flowery Branch this could be played in Warner Robins or Henderson (Macon)….This is the best format I think ,everyone should be satisfied.

By Transplanted Texan

December 9, 2008 7:42 PM | Link to this

I haven’t lived in Texas for a number of years and if I remember correctly their playoff system goes something like this. Texas does play neutral fields throughout the playoff rounds except for the 5A finals. This year the 5A finals are being played at Reliant Stadium in Houston (which makes the Astrodome dome look like an outhouse). I think the classifications 1A thru 4A still play neutral fields all the way through and the two schools determine the time and location. For instance, their two 4A semi-final games are being played this week at Texas Stadium and at Texas A&M’s Kyle Field in College Station, TX. The location for their finals will be detemined after the semis this weekend. The 3A state championship is this weekend at Texas Stadium, their 2A final is in Grand Prairie, TX (metro-Dallas) and will likely be at one of the large 5A stadiums. Their 1A final is similar but will be played in Wichita Falls, TX again likely at one of the large 5A stadiums. Except for the 5A schools, the teams likely agreed on these locations the Sunday of game week. They also have a private school playoff bracket but I’m to lazy to look that one up. Texas does have an advantage over Georgia in that they have more big-time stadiums in addition to college fields to use. Plus they have to play neutral field out of necessity. In the later rounds it is possible to have a team from Brownsville playing an opponent from Amarillo or a Beaumont team playing an El Paso team. These schools could be over 800 miles apart. To put that in perspective, if an Atlanta school goes west 800 miles they are playing in Texas. That is also why they have 32 districts which make up the 4 regions (8 districts in each region). You play within your region for the first four rounds. Qualify for your district, then win area, then win bi-district, then win regionals, then win quarter-finals, then win semi-finals to get to the finals. The regions out there are each about the size of Georgia so there is still potential lenthy travel involved but wait until the quarters, semis and finals for the real road trips. Don’t hold me to this but I think they CAN play on one of the two team’s home field if the two coaches agree and which home field is determined by a coin flip. Very rarely will a coach take that chance and 99.99% of the games are played on neutral fields. They have a good system and I don’t know how they handle the logistics so quick each week. The smaller schools here in Georgia would have no problem doing this because they can use the larger high school’s facilities; not certain how the 5A schools would do it with our limited number of college and professional stadiums. One thing for sure, it’s nice to sit inside and not have to worry about the weather affecting the game.

By Covington Dog

December 9, 2008 7:53 PM | Link to this

Play the finals in the high school stadiums. I am from a small town with a rich football history. There’s nothing like the State Championship being played out in the open at a high school stadium with the home and opposing fans getting into the game instead of in a huge cavern.

By billcanoe

December 9, 2008 7:54 PM | Link to this

The championship games should have been moved to the dome years ago and it’s good to finally see them there.

By be real supporters

December 9, 2008 8:13 PM | Link to this

Elements and dealing with where you have to play is part of life! Camden playing in a mud pit at Newnan helped Camden just fine! A real Champion can handle anything! That is what Camden is, a REAL CHAMPION!

By To Yo

December 9, 2008 11:08 PM | Link to this

“By Yo Is Texas in America or Mexico?”

Neither. Texas is in the United States of America. If our southern ‘vistors’ aren’t stopped it may some be called Texmerica or Texico (I think that one has already been used).

By Ultimate Solution (aka NorthsideEagle90)

December 10, 2008 12:05 AM | Link to this

Now Todd, I know I haven’t blogged in a looooooooooong while. You used to always like when I blogged. I still read the blogs but I haven’t posted in almost 2 years. But I decided to break my silence to bring back an idea I blogged about a long time ago. Here is what I feel is the best solution to the North vs. South travel issue. Please everyone hear me out before you write the idea off as kooky again. I have thought about this for years but was laughed at when I mentioned it before. But now that ALL Finals are played exclusively at the Dome, it seems like now would be a perfect time to bring my idea back up seeing how some of you like Columbia Blue, Chris Whitfield, & The Voice have slightly touched on it. This time I have brought more detail to my idea of how/why this could work. I have always said that Georgia NEEEEDS another major facility in the Middle Georgia area like another GA Dome. I grew up in Warner Robins (Go Northside!!!) but have lived in the Atlanta area for almost 18years. Since the Central GA area is known as the “Peach Area”, we could build another domed facility and call it the “Peach Dome.” Now would be a good time for a couple reasons. 1st, the state needs another premier facility that is NOT in the Atlanta area. 2nd, it would bring economic prosperity to another region of the state that quite frankly gets treated like a red-headed step-child. 3rd, just today & reported in the AJC, Gov. Purdue announced from UGA that he plans to “jumpstart” projects for infrastructure improvements instead of waiting on Washington to decide. This could be a HUGE project that would put thousands of GEORGIANS to work in the Middle GA area for years to come before, during, & after construction was completed. 4th, there is plenty of land in the Warner Robins/Macon/Perry/Byron area up and down I-75 that would be WAY cheaper to purchase than anywhere near metro Atlanta. 5th, you have great access in that area to highways like I-75, I-475, I-16 for example that could pull from all areas of the state quickly AND efficiently. 6th, the area would TRULY be neutral territory for any type of competitive event like football, soccer, hockey, cheerleading, etc. Lastly, LUCKY #7, we not only have a governor who has come out front saying that we need more infrastructure projects but he is FROM the Middle GA area (Bonaire)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By its on

December 10, 2008 12:37 AM | Link to this

There were no games that a North Ga. team had to travel twice to South Ga to play, but it was many south Ga teams had to travel 2 or 3 times to the North to play. GHSA needs to set up the playoff where the North teams have to travel just as much as the South teams. It’s not traveling when you go from E.Paulding to Grayson, N. Gwinnett to Newnan, or etc..That’s not traveling.

By mistermak

December 10, 2008 1:30 AM | Link to this

DAVE I say amen to you!! I was screaming the same thing all last week. Newnan was allowed to bring in temp seating and they still didn’t have as much seating as Chris Gilman Stadium. Oh but their were suggestions from their fans that we could sit on the wet grassy mound behind the endzone. And I was accused of whining!! Camden spent the money and upgraded their stadium to accomadate big events and for what? and now their are plans to close in the North endzone so their will be even more seating. But it won’t matter becuase we will always seem to lose the preverbial coin flip when a North Ga team is involved. From what I hear the way they do that is the coaches from each team meet half way and flip a coin. what kind of 18th century crap is that? Personally I don’t mind traveling to the dome for the finals and I am sure the kids love it. But I believe schools that are #1 seeds and have spent the money to make their facilities much more than adequate should be allowed to host semi’s. Hey but at least the GHSA finally figured out that ties can’t be allowed in the finals. When that happened in 06 I could not believe it. The GHSA is just like any other Govt entity; completely incapable of making sound decisions!!

Hey Peach tree—- Can you hear that Train coming? We are fixin to roll right over you!!!!

GO CATS

By Reeze

December 10, 2008 1:38 AM | Link to this

Ultimate Solution…..Good idea ,but far fetched,economically……How would this Peach Dome pay for itself?…Do you think the SEC would consider moving the SEC championship game from Atlanta(Ga Dome) to Houston,Bibb or Peach County..Maybe a NCAA basketball regional?.. Or Maybe the Falcons would play a couple Home games during the season at the new Peach facility.. With Public transportation being a joke in this area ,it would be a disaster……Just imagine Fans ,Media and others trying to book a flight into Middle GA regional airport, only to find that their chariot is a 10 seater crop Duster(ASA pulled out in Oct)……..With no major College programs in the area ,where’s the support for this Peach Dome…I don’t think it would survive solely off of GHSA sporting events….If you remember the fiasco with the Bibb Co. sports complex ,that should be enough to put your idea to rest……I stated earlier ,the semi’s in the Ga Dome and the championships ,if we must play at a neutral site,A large enough venue at a half way point between the two teams,this would eliminate the North South issue…..This is insane ,what if Camden and Lowndes were playing in the championship game this weekend….What sense would it make for both teams to travel to the Ga Dome….. The Semi’s fine , an excellent showcase for GA highschool football,20 teams 10 games,PBS state wide coverage for those at home, It didn’t get any better…..Championships NO ….The Championships should be for the Home folks , too many in communities miss out playing the championships at the Ga Dome.

By Drock08

December 10, 2008 6:30 AM | Link to this

To: CAMDEN COUNTY SUPPORTERS you guys are a class act. The football program overall is one of the best I have seen. I love the way your fans support your football team. Also the Newnan vs Camden game didn’t turn out the way I thought but good luck in the Dome saturday. Great teams take advantage of turnovers and that what Camden did last friday. #15 was very impressive as a running back and I heard he was a junior. Also I love the halftime show.

By Drock08

December 10, 2008 6:33 AM | Link to this

To Newnan Cougars. What a great year and eventhough you didn’t win the prize I was very proud of your efforts from last December to this December. You train and played like Champions. I look forward to being with you guys for the rest of your lives. God Bless Phil 4:13

By Drock08

December 10, 2008 6:34 AM | Link to this

To Slalom01 I know the Grangers lost and I was surprise by the score what a great year for Lagrange to make it that far with all the injuries and suspensions. Looking forward to playing you guys again next year it should be a good one.

By Randy

December 10, 2008 6:35 AM | Link to this

I think is a joke. Is it fair to take hosting the title game away from a school that may not have ever gotten this far before?

The Atlanta schools did not like having to “go to the country” to play.

By PlayoffFormat

December 10, 2008 7:32 AM | Link to this

This is how the playoffs should be run! To deteremine veune it should be by seeding. If the seedings are both #1 or #2 or #3 or #4 then they should determine by ranking not coin toss. If rankings do not apply because they are out of ton ten polls, then they should reward a tean by overall record. If there is a tie with overall record then region records could play as to who host. This is the fair and balanced way to handle the play off without some crazy coin flip!

By rw

December 10, 2008 7:48 AM | Link to this

I think to play your final game in the Ga. Dome if you are a senior is great reward for these kids. I know a lot of people are griping about traveling too far. While surely this can be an in convenience, “WHAT AN INCONVENIENCE”. I would be willing to bet that most of the complainers about traveling to the Ga. Dome do not have the team they support in one of the games. I believe we have to look at this as a great opportunity for these gifted athletes, and stop thinking just about ourselves. I would not care where the State Finals were held, The Ga. Dome, Middle Ga location or South Ga. location if the team I support earned the right to be there I would find a way to be there to support them. Again I repeat, I think the biggest complainers about having to travel to the Ga. Dome are the ones who dont have the team they support playing there.

By Riaders08

December 10, 2008 7:58 AM | Link to this

This is a no brainer, the finals need to be played at a neutral site, doesn’t matter where, but at a neutral site.

By Playersfirst

December 10, 2008 8:23 AM | Link to this

Why not poll the student athletes? If playing high school and college football has taught me anything about players and their parents it’s that we have vastly different opinions when it comes to things like this. I’d imagine many kids would love to play at the GA Dome or at a GT/UGA site..by the time the teams have made it that far they deserve to feel special.

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this

HoyasRock….You got me. The A and S keys are next to each other and I goofed. Throw the flag, I deserve it.

LOL just having fun, as others have with my typo’s.

By Gamer

December 10, 2008 8:34 AM | Link to this

Drock08, I was waiting for you to appear. It took some days but I am glad you have seen reality and now give praise via your bible verse. Newnan was one of “many” good team. Your claim that this was Newnan’s year (without doubt) to take it all. However, those Camden Wildcats had a say in the outcome.

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 8:50 AM | Link to this

To: Band Mom Gone Wild

I recall one time years ago when a band member with a large brass instrument triped over a wire and fell hitting his head on his brass horn. I don’t know much about band but I do know they don’t wear padding and hitting your head on hard metal can’t be good. They tried to get EMS to look at him to make sure he was OK and properly taken care of as they were afraid it was beyond the bands first aid kit. Whoever they called (I don’t think it was EMS) said the ambulance on the field was for football players. The director contacted the coach and he agreed that the EMS should look after anybody injured and so there was a delay. They stopped the bleeding and gave him a cold press and some headache pills, and he was OK.

By bill bixby

December 10, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

Neutral Field!!! It’s about time. A true champion can win anywhere.

By Syrupmaker Fever

December 10, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

I’ve gotta say, Cairo went to Carver-Columbus for revenge and we got it. The Columbus fans spit, threw things & booed at our band…just want to say to them - it was not our band who was kicking your a*! You did not deserve to be State Champs - Cairo’s fans, coaches and team have always been classy and we will head to the Dome in great numbers to cheer on our STATE CHAMPS!

By Drock08

December 10, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

I agree Gamer Camden is the real deal a complete team. I also believe this was Newnan best team but just couldn’t pull it off this year. I have been crazy busy this week and Wednesday is my off day so trying to catch up. Good Luck to the Wildcats on Saturday

By Brett

December 10, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

I hate it. I love the games at the dome, but not the championships. I think you should keep them in the communities and towns that support and cheer them. Keep the money in that local economy. Let the “home towners” have an easier time of cheering on their team to the state title.

By Syrupmaker03

December 10, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

I don’t think there is any one venue that will satisfy everyone and there never will be, unless they build a Dome with about 30,000 seats right in the middle of the state, and then it still wouldn’t be fair. I think there should be flexibility with the championship games. I think it is a personal experience for the two teams and communities involved and that’s what the focus should be. There are plenty of large stadiums that can adequately handle the crowds that come with these games. Many of them have been mentioned. Staying with the neutral fields…here is where the games should be played this year:

ECI vs Wesleyan…find best stadium in Macon

Buford vs Calhoun…there are plenty of nice stadiums in N. Atlanta, just pick one somewhere in between

Cairo vs Flowery Branch…Columbus Memorial…2 1/2 hours for both teams

Tucker vs Marist…it’s a region game, play it at the opposite of the regular season game

Camden vs Peachtree Ridge…I think NS Warner Robins stadium would be sufficient to host this one

So there you go, five neutral sites, all with high school atmospheres. As for televising, CSS and GPB need to get together and make it happen. GPB could do games at 12, 4, and 8 o’clock and CSS could do 4 and 8 o’clock games.

It’s not like these stadiums are not available this time of year. I think even the hosting site’s school should get a little something. I bet stadiums would be easy to come by then, like if they got the concessions or something.

As for the Dome, the semis were always cool to me in the Dome…it definitely made more sense than sticking the finals in there. The reality of it is, the Dome is NOT high school football. Yeah these kids get excited about the opportunity, but after warm-ups and the opening kick, it’s just like anywhere else to them. I know I would have much rather won a state championship in front of a more personal and community oriented crowd. Get the finals out of the Dome, take your semis back and let’s play some HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL.

GO MAKERS!

By Veteran Fan

December 10, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

GHSA could solve this problem real easy! For 5 years take some of their portion of ticket revenue and develop an existing site in Macon for football and soccer. Expand seating and roof it over! When the basketball finals are played there it is very fair to everyone!

By DidtheRightthing

December 10, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

Thank God they finally got it right.The high school football players go to bed dreaming about getting a chance to play in the GA Dome on the same field as NFL future Hall of Fame players.Getting to the Dome for the finals is the greatest reward to our high school football players.It’s just feels awesome to be on that field and the added bonus is that they are also on TV at the sametime.Nothing beats being on the Big Stage on a’neutral field”.So quit complaining,the football players love it,the students love it, so, “Get Your Popcorn Ready” and enjoy the games.

By No Home Field Playoff Games

December 10, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

Keep the 1-4 seedings but all rounds of the playoffs should be played on neutral fields with the two teams each week making the location determination. It is the only way to have a fair true champion crowned. And as for the folks whinning about travel cost, the schools can provide school bus transportation for a nominal fee. For a number of years I lived in a state that did this and taking school buses to road games was great and you couldn’t beat the price. Also the hassle of driving and parking is solved. People would bring refreshments and the trip each week was like a traveling tailgate party. You would have bank presidents, lawyers, hourly workers, ministers, farmers, ranchers, etc all riding the buses. The fans really looked forward to the school bus caravan each week…and yes, they had parents-only and kids-only buses. It was not unusal to have a law enforcement escort through each county and town because there were so many buses. Law enforcement often stopped traffic at intersections, to allow the caravan to keep moving. It was a fun way to go to the games and you really got to know your fellow fans.

By Dynamo Edison

December 10, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

I remember the hubbub a few years ago when Tift County made it to the semis in the Dome. Tift really wanted to make it special and spent all kinds of money, did fundraisers, and had all kinds of sponsorships to get the players, band, students, and fans to the Dome.

Tifton is a nice-sized town. They have plenty of avenues to explore for cash and it still cost them a fortune to go.

Think about places like Clinch County. I would take it that most of your northerners here have never been through Homerville. Or Quitman, Rochelle, Irwinton, or downtown Ashburn (I-75 doesn’t count). The latter four made it deep into the playoffs. None of these schools are like the University of Buford. There may be a couple of big bucks boosters per town, but these places are poor. Every parent and relative support the programs in these towns. It sure isn’t fair that University of Buford drives a short distance while the citizens of Argyle have to not only rearrange their schedules, they have to pay for bus rides and meals for their kids, the kids that are somehow poorer than theirs, and pay for their own meals and gasoline to drive all the way to Atlanta. In Atlanta, they have to try to park or else fork out a nice wad of cash for MARTA.

To make these families from south Georgia fork out this huge wad of money every single year they make it deep into the playoffs is ludicrous.

Back in the early days of the basketball state tournaments, the GHSA would provide every student athlete $7.50 for transportation to go to Woodruff Hall in Athens.

I believe that the GHSA is getting money from somewhere. They get a good many corporate sponsorships every year. Perhaps a per athlete allowance would be useful, especially if it were a rate calculated on mileage and possibly classification (for example, Brooks County would receive more money than Lowndes because Brooks is smaller and Wheeler County would receive more than Webster County because Wheeler is a further distance away).

Several people have mentioned rotating finals sites. That’s also a good plan. Parking and security are potential issues, but if you limited each site to one or two finals games parking would solve itself. Security could be handled by actively working with law enforcement and encouraging police from neighboring counties to participate.

At the very least, Atlanta shouldn’t be raking in all the benefits and leaving us in the south bleeding.

By Camden '08

December 10, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Thanks Drock08 for your support!! I was proud of the cats for pulling it out against a very good Newnan team. Good luck next year!!

By dobearsbare

December 10, 2008 12:34 PM | Link to this

Camden wasn’t complaining about travel when it was playing its first three games at home. For those rounds, that’s the biggest home-field advantage in the state. Which gives them no right to complain about the travel for this game.

By Gamer

December 10, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

Drock08, Yo, Slalom, Wildcat Cat Fan and Mistermak. I am making reference to you guys that truly love this blog and with vigor support and defend your teams. That is, Newnan, Lowndes, LaGrange and Camden County. Please let me know the number of defensive and offensive “STARTERS” you have coming back for 2009. NSWR, my team—has 2 starters on offense and 5 on defense. Not enough to scare any one but coach Nix will do his best. I just hope in the preseason poll AJC starts us out as 15 or 16. I don’t want us to get embarrassed early in the season. LOL

By Blame General Grant

December 10, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

I’m going to use some Democratic / obama logic for this one. If it must be known, General Grant of the northern army is to blame for the Georgia high school finals being played in the Dome. If he would have completely burned Atlanta then it would not have likely been rebuilt in the current location. Over 140 years later and the damn yankees are still screwing-up things.

By Travel Whinners

December 10, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

Neutral field each playoff round, that is centralized and agreed to by the two teams, is the only way to run a bias free playoff system. If the travel whinners are so certain they will have the state championship game on their field each year, then build a stadium to handle the darn crowd. Also give the traveling team 100% of ticket receipts and concessions. A lot of people don’t attend the championship games because there’s no place to sit in these petite stadiums. So, for the travel whinners, either get on the bus or back on the porch and shut-up.

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 1:23 PM | Link to this

So now we in metro Atlanta are northerners? I haven’t spent much time in sourthern Georgia but my grandparents were sharecropers in LA. And I have a few relatives in south Georgia as well. The Georgia Dome was picked because it holds a lot of people and will help make money for the schools. It may not be so good for fans from the south who do not have time or money to travel to Atlanta, but the seats will get filled and thats good for the schools.

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 1:27 PM | Link to this

By Veteran Fan

December 10, 2008 9:59 AM | Link to this

GHSA could solve this problem real easy! For 5 years take some of their portion of ticket revenue and develop an existing site in Macon for football and soccer. Expand seating and roof it over! When the basketball finals are played there it is very fair to everyone!

Good idea, why don’t you pony up a few thousand to pay for it, because that’s what it’s going to take, lots of donations. I doubt there is enough cash to pay for it with this economy right now. It’s probably a profit loser without donations.

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

I got it! Play half the game at one school’s field, and the other half at the other school. Problem solved!

By obama logic?

December 10, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

obama logic? obama logic would be for either Camden County or Peachtree Ridge to win the AAAAA championship but then be forced to share it with the other AAAAA schools in the state. So what if they were the better team, worked longer and harder than the other teams, they would only be 1/64th State Champions for their effort. The current democratic way. lol

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 1:34 PM | Link to this

So there you go, five neutral sites, all with high school atmospheres. As for televising, CSS and GPB need to get together and make it happen. GPB could do games at 12, 4, and 8 o’clock and CSS could do 4 and 8 o’clock games.

IMO its not going to meet the expectations of the GHSA. These schools are not large enough and the games are at differant sites. The idea is to get fans to come to one site for all games and spend money not one one game but several or all. That can’t happen if the games are spread all over the state.

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

To make these families from south Georgia fork out this huge wad of money every single year they make it deep into the playoffs is ludicrous.

Deep wad of money? You have got to be kidding me. Even a share cropper could aford one night in a cheap hotel, gas, and a $20 dollar ticket.

By its on

December 10, 2008 1:51 PM | Link to this

Camden has 40 seniors, maybe 20 are starters

By hsfan

December 10, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this

I think it is great. It solves the issue of teams with better records having to play an away game because the schedule had been decided in advance.

By SportsFan31313

December 10, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

I don’t know of any High School Stadiums that could 40,000 Fans at any given time. I really don’t know whether or not that Division 1-AA Schools could hold that many either. Maybe Georgia Southern but I don’t know.

The only Stadiums that I know for sure could 40,000 plus Fans at one time would be a Division 1-A School, and at this date and time, they more than likely are currently being used. However; The Dome will definitely suit the Fan Base for all schools.

It may a heck of a drive for some but this is for some schools a one time event and it may be years for a their perspective school to repeat year after year to a State Final. The Dome can hold ample enough Fans, and therefore; should be played there. It’s neutral territory for both schools so may the best team win.

As far as too may seats left over, IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO HAVE AND DON’T NEED THAN TO NEED AND DON’T HAVE………..

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 3:06 PM | Link to this

Hey, if you can’t afford a motel room, I know for a fact you can go to the Grady emergency room, tell them you have some minor alement, and sleep in the waiting room for the entire night.

By SportsFan31313

December 10, 2008 3:26 PM | Link to this

HoyasRock,

Now lets stop being SILLY………

By Dynamo Edison

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

Really? You don’t think that it’s expensive to travel from south Georgia to Atlanta?

It takes a bit over half of a tank of gasoline in a small-sized car to travel from the Valdosta area to Atlanta. At its current rate and in a good mileage vehicle, it takes $20 to fill a tank. So, I’d say it costs $35 in gasoline.

The cheapest hotel you’ll find will cost no less than $50 per night without standard luxury tax, single occupancy. None of those are near the Georgia Dome. Closer to Stockbridge, I’d say. Bump that up to about $60 per family.

Food is next. I eat a good convenience store meal of gummy bears and Coca-Cola for lunch. I’m probably not typical. Six dollars per person for fast food is reasonable these days. Family of four could eat cheap Mickey D’s for $25.

By the way, I’m including lunch, as it takes about 3.5 hours to get to the MARTA station and another 30 to get to the Dome. MARTA costs money, you know. I forget the current price to ride it, but know it’s at least $1.50 one way per person.

Supper needs to be included, too. Another $25 for the Mrs. Winners that’s close to the Flippen exit, if I remember right. You can’t each burgers twice in one day.

While you’re at the game, you’ll want a drink and maybe some nachos. You’re getting off for a minimum of $25 there for your family of four, as the schools themselves generally handle concessions. Since we’re at the game, let’s buy a program. Five more bucks. Don’t let me forget tickets. I know that in the earlier rounds, they’re around $10. I can’t recall if they’re $10 or $15 for the Dome. We’ll go with $10. Forty more bucks to attend.

Doing some quick math, that’s $155 for a family of four to attend a game. That’s not including potential MARTA fare or spending the night in the cut rate hotel in Stockbridge. Including the hotel and another two meals, I’d say around $265.

Real cheap, isn’t it? That’s undershooting just about every category.

Two-hundred sixty-five is more expensive than some people’s car payments per month. For some that work in a school, that’s about a third of their monthly salary.

To whomever took offense to the word “northerners,” it indicates where you geographically are in the state. To some degree, it also reflects the changing demographics of metro Atlanta. Newton County used to have farmland, you know.

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 3:35 PM | Link to this

Now lets stop being SILLY………

Hey you want to hear silly. Take the game away from a dome where there can seat 50,000 people, meaning that is the max they can sell. Then move it to a field where they can barly seat 8,000 or so, thus the max ticket sales is less than one fifth. Now that silly. At least my silly was in fun.

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 3:41 PM | Link to this

IMO $265 isn’t exactly a wad, I was not thinking of a family though. It’s less than two or three days wages for most of us.

By HoyasRock

December 10, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

Newton County used to have farmland, you know.

Hey, Downtown Atlant never had farmland and it has always been part of the south. Some rednecks just can’t deal with the new south.

By roger robinson

December 10, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

Who are you kidding ! We all know this descision is political to put the finals in the dome.All Georgia towns would love to have the finals to showcase where they live.Also,let a little hotel money, gas money,resturant money flow in these little places from the football teams( parents, friends etc.)If you earn the privilege to host a final,civic pride would be off the chain.

By slalom1

December 10, 2008 5:31 PM | Link to this

I agree with REEZE. Moving the semi-finals from the dome was a mistake. What a weekend that was!Got to see 20 teams from their respective classifications in 48 hours. Granted the 9:00 a.m games may have been a little over the top. But given all that, at least a semi final team could brag that “we made it to THE DOME”.

By slalom1

December 10, 2008 5:44 PM | Link to this

DROCK08, Like some wise man once said, “The thrill is in the journey”. The Cougars certainly gave all of us many thrills in the journey. Like you, I was shocked at the outcome of the Camden game. Not too surprised at the Grangers’ loss to F. Branch. More surprised that they made it this far, given all they have been through in 2008. This was NOT the same Granger team that played in Game 5. I saw the entire Newnan vs. Camden game on tape delay after going to the LG vs. F. Branch game without knowing the outcome. Like you said, some first half mis cues on both sides of the ball gave Camden a 20-0 lead at the half. Newnan played Camden an even game in the second half. Just a little bit too late. Not to dis Camden. They did what great teams do. They did not beat themselves, and capitalized on their opponents mistakes. Kudos to them. Still, I am disappointed not seeing the Cougars in the final. They are a great team and had a great season. Go Cougars in 2009.

By frank

December 10, 2008 5:57 PM | Link to this

I played at Thomas County Central in the glory days. One of our goals was to finish the season ranked as high as we can to host the State Championship. Its not just for the school, but the community benefits also. People are coming to communities and spending money. Thats how you get businesses behind the schools in your community. I would have hated to play one of our state championships in the dome. It takes so much away from the communities and teams. It nothing like playing a championship game at one of the school involved and having people packed on top of each other. I played in the semi finals at the dome and could not wait to played the championship at home the next week. But the only reason they are doing this is because of the SEC championship last week in the dome the week of the semis.

By slalom1

December 10, 2008 5:59 PM | Link to this

Gamer, Regarding starters for the Grangers in 2009, it depends on which week you are referring to. The Grangers were without no less than 11 starters at one time or another in 2008. So, if you include those players who were “starters” during one time or another during the year, here is how it breaks down: OFFENSE- the entire backfield, minus the QB.(3) OL, (2). DEFENSE-DT(2) LB(1) DB (1). But, if you throw in players with experience add another 3 or 4 players on both sides of the ball. Regardless, it will be a rebuilding year.

By slalom1

December 10, 2008 6:08 PM | Link to this

JEFF, You made an interesting post regarding 19 year olds playing in GHS football along with the idea of “holding players” back for one year. Unless a kid is a “repeater” he should be no more than 18 years old during fall of his senior year. Under GHS rules a player could actually turn 20 years old after January and still be eligible to play. (That would account for a “2 time repeater”) At that age 1 or 2 years in maturity can go a long way. It would be interesting to know how many “repeaters” are on the rosters of the state’s top teams.TODD or CHRIS, why don’t you guys investigate this? Pretend you are in high school again. What are your chances going up against kids 1 or 2 years older than you?

By slalom1

December 10, 2008 6:19 PM | Link to this

TODD, I just posted a reply to JEFF regarding “hold backs” and repeaters. I believe this is a topic worthy of investigation. Nothing illegal, just a subject of interest. For example, what if you found that Team A was composed mostly of 19 year olds and team B was composed mostly of 18 year olds?(I am referring to starters). Don’t you believe that warrants at least a side note? As an example, I would bet that the majority of the St. Pius X starters were 18 or less. Same for Brookstone.What about Cairo? Carver? Camden? Lowndes? Grayson? P’Tree Ridge? Would it not be interesting to know?

By Dynamo Edison

December 10, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

Slalom1,

I believe it is technically illegal via GHSA rules to “redshirt” but they can’t enforce it.

That’s actually a story from the past. Lowndes Junior High had a whale of a football team in 1975. Most of the players were eighth graders. The coaching staff knew this was going to be an incredible team, but they weren’t sure if it would be enough.

So, the coaches talked to the parents and most of the parents agreed: hold the eighth graders back. Let them repeat the grade. None of kids flunked; it was the parents’ choice.

In 1980, Lowndes won their first state title with several players who should have been freshmen in college.

Until Lowndes’ run of glory over the several seasons, that state title wasn’t looked upon as being legitimate by more than a handful of people.

Side note: I don’t know if it’s statewide, but there is an age limit on middle schoolers around here, too. Had a kid in eighth grade last year who was ineligible to play. He’ll also only have three years of high school athletics as that’s how far he’s behind.

By theodoris gibbs

December 10, 2008 8:01 PM | Link to this

Great move by GHSA. Huge venue will allow loyal high school fans to have excellent seats and great views to watch some of the best high school football in the nation. I attend state title games each year along with my brother, cousins, and friends. We are excited about the games in the DOME. Congratulations to all the schools in the finals. T. Gibbs

By Gamer

December 10, 2008 8:08 PM | Link to this

Thanks Slalom, The Grangers went further than I thought the would. Each time I have seen them play they gave it their all. That is, against Perry and Peach County. They will be really good in 2009.

By Marc

December 10, 2008 8:53 PM | Link to this

Dynamo Edison And it will cost the exact same or close for the same family to travel from the north to the south for some high school stadium versus the DOME!!! Tell me which one is more exciting for the fans and players?

By HSBallfan

December 10, 2008 9:11 PM | Link to this

The finals are fine exactly where they are. It’s a great reward for the players, cheerleaders, bands, etc. to have the chance to be on the field at Georgia’s premier football facility. NOW FIX THE SEMI-FINALS!!!!! That’s what’s broken. Find five neutral fields to host the games in each class. Having a team travel hundreds of miles to play at a makeshift high school sandlot based on a coin toss is complete crap. The teams that have made it to their respective final fours deserve better treatment than that.

By Dynamo Edison

December 10, 2008 10:55 PM | Link to this

Marc,

You’re right. It would cost the same for you north Georgians to go south. But right now, you’re not paying that. South Georgians are.

To me a game would be more exciting outdoors. It would be more exciting in a venue local to the teams. Imagine if the Thomas County Center-Thomasville state final from 15 years ago couldn’t be held locally and had to be held in Atlanta. Takes most of the fun out of it, doesn’t it? And personally, I hold Sanford Stadium and Grant Field in higher esteem than the Dome.

Outdoors would mean braving the elements, but to me that adds to a game. The Dome’s just so sterile. Quiet when it’s not full.

I went one year when Clinch County was playing in the semis. Clinch County doesn’t have 5,000 people. Down in Homerville, they’re a loud bunch with their jugs full of rocks screaming, “Roll, Red Roll!”

In the Dome, I could barely hear them. They’re used to being right on top of the action. Here, their team was a million miles away on fake grass. The interaction between opposing fans is also gold. Not many games can feature that. The Dome’s just too big.

A few years earlier, I was at the lesser end of the Macon Coliseum (the boys getting all the GPB attention on the real floor that year). Holy Innocents’ was playing Putnam County in the girls’ finals. The fans didn’t know each other. By the end of the evening, the two crowds were back and forth. Nothing violent, nothing scary. Just dueling fans. It made the game that much better.

That’s why several of us earlier in the blog advocated rotating sites. Share the wealth.

Until the last few years, the GHSA didn’t have a problem moving basketball playoffs around. Everybody from the Albany Civic Center to Alexander Memorial to Wheeler High to old Crisp County High hosted a final.

If it’s so easy to move basketball around, why can’t football do the same? There are a good many stadiums, some of them high schools that could accommodate a game or two.

Share the wealth. Don’t make Camden and others literally pay every year for their success.

By SGT CHRIS

December 11, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

By Jarrett

INSANE The whole idea of high school football being played at a sanitized, NFL cavernous stadium like the Georgia Dome gives me a “pimped out” feeling. Trying to cram 5k people into a little country town’s stadium built for 3,000 people - standing on the roof tops of vehicles, and smelling the smoke of a run down concession stand is AMERICA in all its greatness. This Dome idea is just more corporate intrusion into the cozy feeling of home/away high school football.

JARRETT—YOU HIT THE NAIL RIGHT ON THE HEAD…YOU FORGOT ABOUT FANS RIGHT BEHIND THE END ZONE, ON THE BANKS, EVERYWHERE BUT THE SIDELINE….I KNOW THERE IS JOY IN WINNING A CHAMPIONSHIP, BUT WINNING IT ON SOMEONE ELSES FIELD BRINGS A MAJOR SENSE OF ACCOMPLISHMENT..THE DOME CHEAPENS THE THRILL.

By FTU

December 11, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

excerpt from today’s Florida Times-Union:

Because Peachtree Ridge is northeast of downtown Atlanta, about 30 minutes from the Georgia Dome, Ballard expects it to be like a home game.

On the other hand, the Wildcats will be making their fourth trip of six hours or longer.

Camden opened the season with a 21-6 win over Norcross in the Georgia Dome.

The Wildcats traveled to Hoover, Ala., for a 44-16 regular-season win and went to Newnan last week for a 27-7 semifinal victory.

“We’re happy to be there, no question,” Ballard said. “It’s nice to be in the dome for the finals. I like it. I wouldn’t mind doing the semis and the finals in the dome. It’s a neat thing for any high school guy to play there.”

“We’ll take all the help we can get,” Ballard said.

By slalom1

December 11, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this

SGT CHRIS, You are right on the money. GHS football is Americana at its finest when played in HIGH SCHOOL STADIUMS packed to the rim with fans. I have no problem with the semi’s being played at the Dome. But, the finals should be played on the home field of whichever team is given the nod. This is simply the way GHS football was meant to be showcased. Furthermore, it has worked. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”.

By Band Mom Gone Wild

December 11, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this

HoyasRock, Most people don’t realize what goes into taking care of the marching band. Their parents have trusted us chaperones to keep their kids safe which is why I was flipping out at the drunk guy two years ago who refused to leave the band area. (How do I know he’s not some perv there to do dirty deeds?) The football team has all of their trainers to take care of their injuries, but all we have is us parents. All chaperones take a first aid class (luckily I’m a certified instructor so they get it for less than ten bucks which is my cost for the materials) and I’ve met with the head Trainer for the football team so he knows who I am in case I come asking him for help (only needed him once and he was awesome! One of our color guard got clocked by another girl’s flag and within seconds had a HUGE goose egg). Two band moms are nurses, but they work weekends and can’t be there at every game. I’ve only had one kid get taken away in a “bam-bulance” due to an out-of-control asthma attack. (Making the sign of the cross – thank you Jesus!) I’m now trying to get the funds to buy the band an AED to carry in our first aid kit. Know anyone with a spare $1500 they want to donate?

GO RIDGE!!!

By Band Mom Gone Wild

December 11, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

slalom1 - It WAS broke which is why they fixed it. The hs stadiums were becoming unsafe because of the over-selling of tickets and the fact that there was just no more room for people. People standing and not in seats is a HUGE safety hazard. If there were some sort of an emergency and people had to exit the place where PRHS played in the finals two years ago, it would have been utter chaos and hundreds of people would have gotten hurt. If the crowds are so big that they warrant having the game play in the Dome, then in the Dome they should be.

* GO RIDGE!!!*

By Coach's Wife

December 13, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

Being married to a football coach of 28 years, I can say, football on Friday nights is awesome!!! Regarding whether finals should be played in the Ga Dome or not, I feel that the players and coaches themselves grow quite excited about being in the Dome—it’s a historic event and quite memorable, to say the least. In addition, all schools involved split a percentage of the proceeds. Now—someone commented about playing in another stadium. I would be all for that as well. Metro Atlanta schools are shown favoritism to a degree since they do not travel as far as the southernmost high school teams. I am certain that traveling can be costly; however, road games is what we wives live for if we have a strong, winning team. We love to go up the road a few hours away and give a great beating to the top dog. It’s a greta feeling when you’re winning. I am in agreement of rotating the neutral site for all teams. The Warner Robins stadium is not that big of a deal—and surely does not compare to the Ga Dome in any way-no how. Besides-who wants to look up at all night the at the lit up Demon across the street from that stadium—talk about back woods. We’ve lived in all the big major cities and coached in all of them as well, to know where the “real football fans” reside. If you want to see a town shut down every Fridaya night during a home game—go down to Valdosta—especially when Valdosta High and Lowndes High play each other. No stadium in Georgia—except the Dome could hold all the people that come out every year for that game. By the way—we’ve been to the Warner Robins vs. Northside High games, too—they still don’t draw the crowd like Valdosta fans.
Anyway— to close it out—let the boys and coached have bragging rights that they made it to play in a televised, big deal game, the Ga Dome. Unless the games are rotated to Erk’s stadium in Eagle Country, down south, let’s continue to play the finals, just as they are—a big deal and something the kids will never ever forget. Football Fever—you gotta love it!