| |
|
|
|
Click on a headline below
to view the full post
|
|
| Postseason Superlatives: All-Middle Georgia team announced...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 12/31/05
|
|
|
The postseason accolades continue as the All-Middle Georgia football team was recently
announced by the Macon Telegraph. Three Canes were named to the second team, one
Cane was named to the third team, and nine Canes were named as honorable mention
picks.
Congratulations to these players for this recognition.
2005
All-Middle Georgia Football Team (Macon Telegraph)
|
|
| Postseason Superlatives: Multiple Canes named
All-Tift; Nate Inman
is OPOY...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 12/24/05
|
|
| Miscellaneous: New blog covers Purple Hurricane
basketball...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 12/24/05
|
|
|
Corey Slacks, a football and basketball player who has been named to the Region
2AA All-Academic Team, emailed me recently to ask if I had any ideas about
coverage for the Canes' basketball team. In all but the rarest of
situations, phdc is dedicated to football and those activities directly
associated with football. However, Corey and I worked together
to set up a blog for basketball team. This brand new blog can be found at: http://fhsbasketball.blogspot.com/.
Corey stepped up to the plate and is committed to updating Hurricane fans on the
basketball team and its season. He has already added the rosters of the players
and the cheerleaders and he has added the 2005-6 schedule. As the season
progresses, he will updating readers on the games as well.
Thanks to Corey for taking the initiative to provide a platform for folks to be
able to keep up with Hurricane basketball. It's going to be a big benefit to the
team and the fans.
NOTE: If any other FHS sports team is interested in starting its own blog, I'd
be glad to help them get started. Just as there is an fhsbasketball.blogspot.com,
there could be an fhscheerleading.blogspot.com, an fhsbaseball.blogspot.com, an
fhswrestling.blogspot.com, etc. All it takes is someone who is willing to post
updates after matches/games. The updates can be done from any computer and are
as easy as typing an email or typing a Word document. If a player or a coach or
a fan wants help creating a blog, just contact me using the link at the bottom of the
page.
|
|
| Postseason Superlatives: Canes named to AJC and GSWA All-State teams...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 12/18/05
|
|
| Profile: SFC Neal Smith...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 12/15/05
|
|
|
NOTE: Here is the profile of another one of our troops who keeps up with the Canes
via phdc and iHigh.com. Thanks, Neal, for sharing your info and for your service
to our country.
Name:
"Neal Smith" (click
for pic)
Family:
"My wife's name is Dawn Smith (Owens). We have 2 children, Shelby age
11, and Kensley age 5. We live in Fitzgerald. I also have 3 other daughters,
Georgia age 18, Amanda age 16, and Kayla age 15 who live in Ocilla with their
mother."
Rank/Unit:
"I am a platoon sergeant for Bco 2/121 Infantry GA National Guard out of
Cordele."
Location:
"Iraq"
Service duration:
"I have been in the military for 23 years, 6 of which have been on active
duty. This is my second combat deployment. The first was during Desert Storm
while I was in the army with the 1st Calvary Division. I was also deployed to
Bosnia in 2001 for 6 months with the Guard."
Job:
"On the civilian side I have worked for Haulmark for almost 6 years."
Fitzgerald connection:
"I played football and baseball for the Canes from '80 to '82. I don't have
any relatives who play football for them but my nephew plays baseball for the
Canes. His name is Rick Holt."
Message for the Cane Nation:
"I want to say to everyone, please say a prayer for everyone over here and
I can't wait to get back to Fitzgerald and my family."
|
|
| Postseason Superlatives: All-Region team full of Canes...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 12/13/05
|
|
|
The 2AA All-Region team has been announced and Fitzgerald is well-represented on the squad. There are eleven
Canes on the first team and five Canes on the second team. Also, six Canes made the All-Academic team and one
Cane made the All-Freshman team. Taking top honors were Nate Inman as the Offensive Player of the Year and
Jarrel Paschal as the Defensive Player of the Year.
Congratulations to all these players on these great accomplishments.
All-Region teams named for
1A, 2AA (Tifton Gazette)
|
|
| Miscellaneous: Purple Girls take first...
RANDY
RODGERS - 12/12/05
|
|
|
(Note: I normally don't post about non-football sports, but this accomplishment
definitely merits an exception - MK)
Fitzgerald's Purple Girls took first at the GHSA AA State Competition Cheerleading Tournament on
Saturday. The Canes are a consistent top five finisher in the annual competition and have dominated
local competitions in which they competed over the years.
The Fitzgerald girls edged out defending champion Pepperell for the title. Dawson was third and nearby
Dodge County of Eastman placed fourth. Region 2-AA, in which the FHS squad competes, placed all four
of its qualifiers in the 16 team finals field on Saturday.
Congratulations to the hard working Purple girls and Head Coach Angela Davis for your accomplishments
and thank you for representing the Fitzgerald community in such a first class way.
Article about
cheerleading championships (AJC - Registration required)
TV broadcast schedule - 1/13/06 (GPB)
TV broadcast schedule - 1/14/06 (GPB)
Picture 1
Picture 2
Picture 3
Picture 4
|
|
| Press Clippings: Canes #7 in final AP AA poll and #8 in final AJC
AA poll...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 12/09/05
|
|
| Auld Lang Syne: Football pictures from 1954 season now posted...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 12/08/05
|
|
|
(Note: Thanks to Carlton and Louise Fowler for loaning me the yearbooks - MK)
1954 pictures
|
|
| Auld Lang Syne: Football pictures from 1953 season now posted...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 12/05/05
|
|
|
(Note: Thanks to Carlton and Louise Fowler for loaning me the yearbooks - MK)
1953 pictures
|
|
| College Canes: Rodney Milsap on Pearl River's MACJC championship squad...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 11/29/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Todd Holcomb's AJC article recalls fumble-rooskie...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 11/23/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Calhoun post-game...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 11/22/05
|
|
| Scoring Summary: Fitz vs. Calhoun...
RANDY
RODGERS - 11/22/05
|
|
|
Fitz vs Calhoun, 11/18/05.
November 18, 2005.
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter:
6:13 Calhoun 15 yard reception, Urbano (31) to Locklear (6); EP, Little (21). Fitz 0, Calhoun 7.
2nd Quarter:
11:28 Calhoun 1 yard run, Urbano (36); EP, Little (21). Fitz 0, Calhoun 14.
5:58 Calhoun Worley (9) to Durham (4); EP, Little (21). Fitz 0, Calhoun 21.
1:59 Calhoun Worley (9) to Durham (4); EP, Little (21) – NG. Fitz 0, Calhoun 27.
3rd Quarter:
11:45 Calhoun 10 yard run, Urbano (36); EP, Little (21). Fitz 0, Calhoun 34.
7:19 Fitz 23 yard reception, Battle (2) to Ross (32); EP, Ayala (16). Fitz 7, Calhoun 34.
2:35 Calhoun 1 yard run, Urbano (36); EP, Little (21). Fitz 7, Calhoun 41.
1:00 Fitz 42 yard run, Fleming (55); EP, Ayala (16). Fitz 14, Calhoun 41.
4th Quarter:
9:03 Calhoun 1 yard run, Worley (9); EP, Little (21). Fitz 14, Calhoun 48.
:53 Fitz 1 yard run, Inman (42); EP, 2 pt attempt, Inman (42) – NG. Fitz 20, Calhoun 48.
|
|
| Guest Column: A Hurricane Tear...
SHANNON
DOROUGH - 11/20/05
|
|
|
(Note: Thanks to Shannon, whom I played football with and
graduated with and who has a way with words, for this contribution - MK)
Everybody, sooner or later sheds tears. As adults we may find ourselves crying for many reasons; joyful
tears of some major accomplishment, the loss of a loved one, financial difficulties, or seeing the devastation
caused by a catastrophic hurricane. The list could go on.
Now think back to your years as a teenager. What did you cry for? Your parents took your car keys, your
boyfriend/girlfriend broke up with you or maybe you cried because you flunked a test. As adolescents we
somehow find many reasons to be disheartened.
Over the years, I have seen many high school football players brought to tears after a loss. I have especially
watched for and been witness to senior ball players crying who didn’t win “the big one.” Some people see
these young men crying and ask how they could let something like losing a football game cause them to cry.
For those who don’t understand, it’s obvious. They have never shed a Hurricane Tear.
During the 2005 second-round playoff game against Jackson, I saw a young man crying Hurricane Tears. In
the first half of the game, he suffered an injury that would keep him sidelined for the rest of the game.
My six and eight year old daughters noticed this young man crying and asked how he could be doing this if
we were winning. My less than detailed answer was simply, “he’s not going to be able to get back in the game!”
For anyone who’s ever been competitive at anything, knowing that you can’t compete any longer is quite unnerving.
For many football players at this level, realizing that you are “out of the game” is unbearable. For some players
this may be from an injury and for others it is brought on by playing their last high school game. Win, lose
or draw.
In 1986, under the direction of Coach Mike Ellis, my senior team advanced to the first round of the playoffs.
We traveled to Brooks County with high hopes of continuing our season. I remember riding to the game on the
bus, listening to my own “motivational music.” I remember visualizing how I would break through the offensive
line and sack the quarterback. I remember thinking that we would soon be state champions.
We arrived at a stadium that seemed in my mind to be less than spectacular. The visiting locker rooms were
dimly lit and offered no comforts. This concrete block building was positioned under several aged and dismal
oak trees that just made the whole setting seem less than appealing. There was no grass or paving around this
place as dusty clay served the landscape.
The whistle blew and our next obstacle was under way. Back and forth, both teams played well for some time.
Then we slowly began to realize that our opponents had the edge. Bigger, stronger and faster, Brooks County
only needed 48 minutes of playing time to end a lifetime of playing football for most of us.
I remember walking across the field and shaking their hands with a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes.
Then as we exited the fenced in area and headed for our concrete quarters, I began to cry out loud and with
great pain. Yes, I had taken a beating on the field that night, but I didn’t feel any physical pain. My pain
came from the inside. Deep inside.
Somehow I knew that I had just played the last game of organized football of my life. I started flag football
when I was five and was seventeen at that time. Twelve years of blood, sweat and tears had just come to a
screeching halt. Twelve years of always working to win a football game. Twelve years of wins and losses.
Sure, I had cried after other losses, but never quite like this. Never had the pain been so intense. I was
crying Hurricane Tears.
Every year since that game in 1986, I stand in awe as my beloved Hurricanes cross the field for the after game
handshake of their last game. Many of these young men have tears in their eyes, just as I did. To this day,
as I watch, I still get that lump in my throat. I know why they are crying. I feel their pain. I know what
kind of tears they cry.
A Hurricane Tear is different than other tears. A Hurricane Tear has no shame in it. A Hurricane Tear is
built on pride. A Hurricane Tear is the desire to go further. A Hurricane Tear has a lifetime of friendship
and brotherly love in it. A Hurricane Tear is not black or white. A Hurricane Tear can only be one color:
PURPLE!
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Calhoun pre-game...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 11/17/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Jackson-Fitzgerald post-game...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 11/14/05
|
|
| Scoring Summary: Jackson vs. Fitz...
RANDY
RODGERS - 11/14/05
|
|
|
Fitz vs. Jackson, 11/11/05.
November 11, 2005.
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter:
4:47 Fitz 31 yard pass reception, Battle (2) to Thompson (82); EP, Ayala (16). Fitz 7, Jackson 0.
2nd Quarter:
9:49 Fitz 5 yard run, Inman (42); EP, Ayala (16). Fitz 14, Jackson 0.
3rd Quarter:
None
4th Quarter:
10:13 Fitz 50 yard run, Inman (42); EP, Ayala (16). Fitz 21, Jackson 0.
7:41 Jackson 29 yard reception, Lunsford (11) to Watts (2); EP, Waits (80). Fitz 21, Jackson 7.
3:17 Fitz 1 yard run, Inman (42); EP, Ayala (16). Fitz 28, Jackson 7.
|
|
| Profile: SSgt Travis L.
Faison...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 11/10/05
|
|
|
NOTE: As you can see from the guestbook, there are a number of Cane fans who have
served or do currently serve in our nation's armed forces. They keep up with the
team from locations around the US and around the world (including Iraq, Korea,
and Japan). In honor of their service, I would like to provide a profile of one
of these loyal fans. Thanks to Travis Faison for participating in this and
thanks to all those who have served our country with honor and distinction.
Name:
"Travis L. Faison"
Family:
"Wife (Traci) and two children - Travis and Kiara"
Rank:
"Currently Staff Sergeant (Getting Promoted 1 Dec 2005 to the rank of
Gunnery Sergeant)"
Unit:
"Headquarter and Service Company, Combat Assault Battalion"
Location:
"Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan"
Service duration:
"I've been in the Marine Corps about 11yrs, 6mos"
Job:
"I'm a Career Retention Specialist (Try to retain Marines in the
Corps)"
Fitzgerald connection:
"1994 graduate of FHS"
Message for the Cane Nation:
"This quote from Vince Lombardi holds true to life and football.
'Dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Hard work is
the price we must pay for success. I think you can accomplish anything if you're
willing to pay the price.'"
|
|
| Press Clippings: Jackson-Fitzgerald pre-game...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 11/10/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Thomasville-Fitzgerald post-game...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 11/7/05
|
|
| Scoring Summary: Thomasville vs. Fitz...
RANDY RODGERS - 11/5/05
|
|
|
Fitz vs Thomasville, 11/04/05.
November 4, 2005.
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter:
5:04 Fitz 8 yard run, Roberts (22); EP, Ayala (16). Fitz 7, Thomasville 0.
2nd Quarter:
4:19 Fitz 9 yard run, Inman (42); EP, 2 pt. attempt, Newell (14) – NG. Fitz 13, Thomasville 0.
3rd Quarter:
2:50 Fitz 48 yard run, Inman (42); EP, 2 pt. conversion, Inman (42). Fitz 21, Thomasville 0.
4th Quarter:
3:07 Fitz 12 yard run, Roberts (22); EP, Ayala (16). Fitz 28, Thomasville 0.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Thomasville-Fitzgerald pre-game...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 11/3/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Irwin post-game...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 10/31/05
|
|
| Scoring Summary: Fitz vs. Irwin...
RANDY RODGERS - 10/31/05
|
|
|
Fitz vs Irwin Co, 10/28/05.
October 28, 2005.
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter:
None.
2nd Quarter:
11:39 Fitz 75 yard pass, Battle (2) to Lately (81); EP, Ayala (16) kick – NG. Fitz 6, IC 0.
11:23 IC 86 yard punt return, Charlton (45); EP, 2 pt. attempt, Charlton (45) – NG. Fitz 6, IC 6.
3:45 Fitz 34 yard run, Ross (32); EP, 2 pt. attempt, Inman (42) – NG. Fitz 12, IC 6.
0:00 IC 27 yard run, Charlton (45); EP, 2 pt. attempt, Florence (41) – NG. Fitz 12, IC 12.
3rd Quarter:
9:48 Fitz 2 yard run, Inman (42); EP, Ayala (16) kick. Fitz 19, IC 12.
0:41 IC 12 yard run, Charlton (45); EP, 2 pts., Florence (41). Fitz 19, IC 20.
4th Quarter:
9:29 Fitz 8 yard run, Inman (42); EP, 2 pt. attempt, Austile (84) – NG. Fitz 25, IC 20.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Irwin pre-game...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 10/27/05
|
|
| Phun with Photoshop: Weather report for Ocilla...
MIKE
KITCHENS - 10/27/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald vs. Ocilla/Irwin County...
JIM OGILVIE /
RANDY RODGERS - 10/27/05
|
|
|
|
|
OCILLA/ |
|
| YEAR |
FITZ |
IRWIN |
RESULT |
| 1922 |
64 |
0 |
W |
| 1923 |
6 |
7 |
L |
| 1924 |
Did not play |
| 1925 |
6 |
0 |
W |
| 1926 |
0 |
48 |
L |
| 1927 |
6 |
45 |
L |
| 1928 |
7 |
12 |
L |
| 1929 |
27 |
0 |
W |
| 1930 |
Did not play |
| 1931 |
59 |
0 |
W |
| 1932 |
? |
? |
W1 |
| 1933 |
78 |
0 |
W |
| 1947 |
40 |
0 |
W |
| 1948 |
59 |
6 |
W2 |
| 1949 |
39 |
0 |
W |
| 1954 |
0 |
13 |
L |
| 1955 |
45 |
6 |
W |
| 1956 |
19 |
37 |
L |
| 1957 |
25 |
0 |
W |
| 1958 |
13 |
0 |
W |
| 1959 |
8 |
20 |
L |
| 1960 |
0 |
0 |
T |
| 1961 |
61 |
19 |
W |
| 1962 |
21 |
6 |
W |
| 1963 |
21 |
13 |
W |
| 1964 |
7 |
20 |
L3 |
| 1965 |
21 |
7 |
W |
| 1966 |
34 |
12 |
W |
| 1967 |
18 |
7 |
W |
| 1968 |
19 |
13 |
W |
| 1969 |
37 |
7 |
W |
| 1970 |
35 |
6 |
W |
| 1971 |
25 |
6 |
W |
| 1972 |
14 |
39 |
L |
| 1973 |
20 |
18 |
W |
| 1974 |
0 |
13 |
L |
| 1975 |
0 |
7 |
L |
| 1976 |
7 |
9 |
L |
| 1977 |
0 |
0 |
T |
| 1978 |
35 |
12 |
W |
| 1979 |
40 |
0 |
W |
| 1980 |
25 |
0 |
W |
| 1981 |
10 |
5 |
W |
| 1982 |
14 |
0 |
W |
| 1983 |
28 |
14 |
W |
| 1984 |
16 |
7 |
W |
| 1985 |
0 |
21 |
L |
| 1986 |
7 |
13 |
L |
| 1987 |
27 |
7 |
W |
| 1988 |
20 |
0 |
W |
| 1989 |
41 |
0 |
W |
| 1990 |
27 |
14 |
W |
| 1991 |
10 |
18 |
L |
| 1992 |
30 |
0 |
W |
| 1993 |
43 |
7 |
L4 |
| 1994 |
24 |
7 |
W |
| 1995 |
0 |
28 |
L |
| 1996 |
0 |
17 |
L |
| 1997 |
19 |
28 |
L |
| 1998 |
7 |
26 |
L |
| 1999 |
13 |
32 |
L |
| 2000 |
28 |
22 |
W |
| 2001 |
43 |
14 |
W |
| 2002 |
49 |
41 |
W |
| 2003 |
32 |
29 |
W |
| 2004 |
27 |
6 |
W |
| 2005 |
TBD |
| Overall
record: |
|
Fitz-41, Ocilla/Irwin-21, Tie-2 |
| Fitzgerald
Average: |
|
.641 |
| Ocilla/Irwin
Average: |
|
.328 |
| Shutouts: |
|
Fitz-17, Ocilla/Irwin-9 |
| Winning
streaks: |
|
7 games: Fitz-3 |
|
|
5 games: Fitz-1, Irwin-1 |
|
|
4 games: Fitz-1 |
|
|
3 games: Fitz-1, Irwin-2 |
|
|
2 games: Fitz-1, Irwin-1 |
|
|
|
| Found
no records prior to 1922 |
|
|
|
| 1
Fitzgerald paper states as win, but has no score |
| 2
Fitzgerald was State Champion |
| 3
Only regular season loss, Fitzgerald went on to play for the state
championship |
| 4
Forfeit due to eligibility violation |
|
|
| Press Clippings: Suey, Irwin, Suey!...
RANDY
RODGERS - 10/27/05
|
|
|
Take several generations of Fitzgerald and Ocilla boys and put them in the same room
and one thing is for sure, they’ll soon get around to talking about The Game. Who won
their senior year and maybe even about a personality or two that wore Purple and Gold
and went by the names Hurricanes, Terrapins, or Indians.
They may even get around to the great Fitzgerald teams of the 40s, 60s, and the first
few years of the new millennium or the great Irwin teams of the 60s, 70s, and 90s. Surely
there will be Fitzgerald names like Jay, Goff, Hargrove, Paulk, Chambless, Luke, Pruitt,
McDonald, Johnson, and Bell that will be mentioned. Even the Ocilla boys like Sumner,
Roberts, Roberts, Paschal, Walters, Walters, and Barnes will be discussed.
The Ocilla boys will surely bring up the 1964 game when the Indians ruined Fitzgerald’s
perfect regular season by knocking off a Hurricane that was riding high, headed towards
a title game appearance. They’ll also talk about the winning streak of the 90s when the
Indians beat Fitzgerald 5 straight years.
Canes will mention the payback of the 1968 team when they squashed the Indian perfect
record by beating them, unexpectedly. They’ll also talk about the 1973 team that was
resurrected by a returning Joe Compton. The Pruitt era of the last few years will be
mentioned and the extraordinary game that Carlos Bell had a couple of years ago when
he single-handedly scored 4 touchdowns, setting up Leo Sanchez for the last minute
field goal that closed the deal for the Canes.
They’ll talk about a lot. The competition, the meetings at the Dairy Queen, Tastee Freeze,
Hardee's, and the Wal-Mart parking lot. I bet places like Johnnie’s and Harper’s were
pretty popular spots, too. The girls that the boys from Fitzgerald dated down in Ocilla
and the Fitzgerald girls that dared wear an Indian letter jacket in the halls of old Fitz-Hi.
The Fitzgerald boys might even recall Coach Compton’s 1973 cheer that he unveiled just for
the game:
Born in the back wood, straddle of a log,
Ears like a Billy Goat. Teeth like a hog.
Suey, Irwin. Suey!
Some of the pep-rallies will come up. I, personally, have seen “10 Little Indians” played
out in at least a dozen different ways and I know the folks down in Ocilla have “taken the
wind out of a purple storm” in a bunch of different ways.
My friend Michael Parker, a former administrator at ICHS and now principal of Berrien High
School, told me that when he was a new assistant principal down in Ocilla, he and another
staff member performed at the Irwin-Fitz pep rally. Parker dressed up as the dreaded Hurricane
with a cape and a purple wig. The other guy, dressed as the Indian, chased Parker around the
gym and “scalped” him, removing the wig to reveal a bloody head. “The crowd went wild,” said
Parker. “It didn’t help, though. We still lost.”
I’m hoping that the Canes can continue their winning streak and make it 42-21-2. The sure thing
is that both teams will come out and leave it all on the field like Carlos Bell did two years
ago. Someone will step up big and a new story will be created.
Shoot! We might even bring out Compton’s old cheer which is allowable for just one game out of
the year.
Born in the back wood, straddle of a log,
Ears like a Billy Goat. Teeth like a hog.
Suey, Irwin. Suey!
|
|
| Press Clippings: It’s that time again, Fitzgerald vs Irwin...
RANDY
RODGERS - 10/26/05
|
|
|
It’s that time again, the Fitzgerald Purple Hurricane and the Irwin County Indians. For some it’s
the most important game of the year. It’s for the bragging rights and we don’t realize just how
important that is until we don’t have them! It’s just that important.
Fitzgerald’s Hurricane is riding high and looking to gather additional strength as it heads towards
post season play as the Region 2-AA Champion and the number one seed in the first round of the
play-offs. The Indians from Ocilla will be playing for the possibility of sneaking into the play-offs
as a number four seed and will playing for pride and the possibility of being a spoiler for the
Canes and their undefeated region record.
The Indians are riding on a two game winning streak with a 30-28 win over Pierce County a week ago
and a 22-20 win over Brantley County on Friday night. The Indians would even their season record
with a win over Fitzgerald; they are 4-5 for the 2005 season.
The Indians feature a highly touted offensive lineman, Justin Anderson, a 6-foot-4, 315 pounder who
has committed to play for UGA. Running out of the Indian backfield will be P.J. Florence and
Chavarious Charlton, two seniors that would like nothing more than to upset the Canes in their
final year in Irwin Red and Black.
The Hurricane looks to keep on rolling with Seniors Nate Inman and Johnathan Roberts running out
of the high octane Robby Pruitt Wing T machine. Another senior, Josh Battle, will be calling signals
and handling the ball in the prolific “zig-zag-zoom” Hurricane offense. Special teams standout Fred
Thomas is also a senior and he looks to give a big performance in his last big Irwin County game.
Other seniors that look to win out over the Indians include center Russ Ridgeway, defensive lineman
Byron Scott, as well as defensive standout Jamall Williams. Seniors Jerad Smith, Erick and Derrick
Lately, Lapolean Harris, Chad Thompson, Desmond Hodges, Justin Newell, Tony Vickers, Kiyati Nicholas,
Lonnie Davenport, Jay Smith, James Foster, and Dale Rozier will all be planning to knock off the
Indians and take that high school highlight with them as they play their last Fitzgerald-Irwin
match-up.
“It’s a big one for the two communities,” said Head Coach Robby Pruitt. “I know they’ve struggled
some this year but they’ll play lights out in this one. We want to play with a lot of community
pride and end our regular season with a strong win as we head into the play-offs.”
The all time record favors the Canes, heavily. The series goes all the way back to 1922 when the
Reverend Thomas Duncan’s Canes beat the boys from Ocilla, 64-0. The Canes lead the series
41-21-2.
Game time will be 7:30 at Ocilla’s Lanny Roberts Memorial Stadium on Highway 129 North. Crowds
are expected to be huge for this annual affair. The Canes and the Indians, Friday night.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Ben Hill Middle School wins conference title
game over Ware...
RANDY RODGERS - 10/26/05
|
|
|
The Middle School Canes took the Southeastern Georgia Middle School Conference championship
Thursday afternoon at Jaycee Stadium in a runaway, 36-10, over the Ware County Middle School
Gators.
The boys in purple received the kickoff and Brandon Stewart (1) took it all the way, 78 yards,
to end zone green on the first play of the game. Jarlon Roberts (22) ran it in for the extra
points and made the score 8-0 with just a few ticks off of the stadium clock. BHMS 8, Ware 0.
On Ware's first offensive, Brian Taylor (59) came up with a fumble at the Ware 38. Six plays
later Trent Pruitt (4) sneaked it in for the score. Mark McLeod (32) converted the two pointer
and the Canes led 16-0 with 4:31 still showing in the first quarter.
The Canes got on the board again with 7:42 left in the half when Ladarius Rozier (31) turned
it up in the middle for the score from four yards out. The extra point was no good, but the
Purple Hurricane led 22-0.
With just 1:34 left in the half, Jarlon Roberts (22) blasted in from a yard out from his fullback
position for a touchdown. Roberts (22) also added the two point conversion to extend the lead.
BHMS 30, Ware 0.
The boys from Waycross and Wacona showed some grit in the third when the quarterback, Wilkinson
(8), got out for a 35 yard romp to the end zone to get the Gators on the board with 4:46 left in
the third quarter. Wilkinson was unsuccessful on the two point attempt, but the Gators had gotten
on the board. BHMS 30, Ware 6.
The Fitzgerald boys answered the score with just 38 seconds left in the third when Latravious
Stewart (2) stuck it in from eight yards out. The PAT was no good, but the Purple Canes led
36-6.
Following the Canes score, Ware County's Darrell Moore (5) found the seam and open field on the
kickoff return and returned it all the way, 71 yards, for the second score for the Gators. The
extra point was no good and with 6:21 left in the game the score was Fitzgerald 30, Ware
County 12.
The Hurricane was driving at the Ware two with just seconds left when Pruitt (4) took a knee
to drain the clock and the Fitzgerald boys had won their first SGC Championship in their first
year in the league.
"They did a great job," said Coach Troy Fletcher. "From the time we started working out in the
summer, the team decided that this was going to be their year and they haven't looked back."
PurpleHurricane.com joins a supportive community in congratulating the Ben Hill Middle School
Purple Hurricane on their conference championship. We look forward to seeing this fine group
of Hurricane athletes as they join the varsity Canes next year as freshmen.
Webcast
of championship game
BHMS - Roster
BHMS - Picture 1
BHMS - Picture 2
BHMS - Picture 3
BHMS - Picture 4
BHMS - Picture 5
(Thanks to WRDO for the webcast, Wayne Gladden for the roster, and Randy Rodgers for the pictures)
|
|
| Press Clippings: Jeff Davis-Fitzgerald
post-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 10/25/05
|
|
| Guest Column: Everything I ever really needed to know I learned playing football...
BRENT GORDON
(#33) - 10/24/05
|
|
|
(Note: I asked Mrs. Brenda Whitley, an FHS teacher, if she had
any promising writers in her classes that would be interested in contributing to
the website. She extended the offer to her students and Brent Gordon, a member of the
football team, jumped on it. Thanks to Mrs. Whitley for "playing ball"
and to Brent for sharing his clever and well-written essay here on phdc. - MK)
EVERYTHING I EVER REALLY NEEDED TO KNOW
I LEARNED PLAYING FOOTBALL
Have you ever had that clueless moment and you’re just thinking why did I do that? Trust me you’re not the only one if you have. We all become knowledgeable
with time and experience in activities we enjoy. Not all but some can relate to this. I have come across the fact that football is teaching me all about life.
· Be disciplined; everyone needs self-control to push them to go that extra mile.
· Have character.
· Don’t call Vaughn Lieutenant Dan and Coach Booth “Boof-fool.”
· Trust your teammate beside you to do his job.
· Take advantage of the opportunities you have.
· We are all family. We can accomplish more as one.
· Be dedicated.
· Don’t get yourself in a situation to do “quitta drills.”
· Keep your head on a swivel. We need to be aware of challenges that can sneak up on us.
· Always do the detail of your assignment and that play is dead in the water.
· There’s nobody like Coach Ellis.
· If you have a potty mouth, be prepared for the 25 push ups.
· The team is only as weak as the weakest person.
· We as a team represent Fitzgerald, our school, our parents, and ourselves.
· Adversity is going to hit, but we have to pull together and overcome it.
· Work hard to become better.
· Don’t miss reps in the weight room.
· Community support is behind you.
· Be thankful for the facilities and treatment we have.
· Anything is possible on any given night.
Football may just be a leisure activity to some, but it’s a part of life to me. It’s all some football fanatics and lovers of the game know. I am learning so much with the experiences I’m having. Just think how the world would be if we are disciplined, have character, represent ourselves in a mannerly way, and appreciate the things we have. Life essentials are everywhere. I’m thankful for football, and I’m proud to be a Purple Hurricane.
|
|
| Scoring Summary: Jeff Davis vs. Fitz...
RANDY RODGERS - 10/24/05
|
|
|
Fitz vs Jeff Davis, 35-3.
October 21, 2005.
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter:
8:03 JD 16 yard pass, Varnadoe (15) to Graham (4); EP, Miller (75)-NG. Fitzgerald 0, Jeff Davis 6.
7:01 Fitz 72 yard kick off return, Inman (42); EP, Ayala (16). Fitz 7, Jeff Davis 6.
0:01 Fitz 71 yard punt return, Thomas (4); EP, Ayala (16). Fitz 14, Jeff Davis 6.
2nd Quarter:
6:25 Fitz 2 yard run, Inman (42); EP, Ayala (16)-NG. Fitzgerald 20, Jeff Davis 6.
1:36 Fitz 37 yard pass, Battle (2) to Austile (84); EP, Ayala (16). Fitzgerald 27, Jeff Davis 6.
3rd Quarter:
11:51 Fitz 5 yard run, Inman (42); EP, Ayala (16). Fitzgerald 34, Jeff Davis 6.
7:55 Fitz 51 yard pass, Battle (2) to Thompson (82); EP, Ayala (16). Fitzgerald 41, Jeff Davis 6.
4th Quarter:
1:37 Fitz 2 yard run Jemea Thomas (5); EP, Ayala (16). Fitzgerald 48, Jeff Davis 6.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Hurricane will host Jeff Davis, seniors to be honored...
RANDY RODGERS - 10/20/05
|
|
|
The Jeff Davis Yellow Jackets will be in for a visit with the Purple Hurricane on Friday for their annual
Region 2-AA contest. Hurricane seniors will be recognized prior to the game as the FHS football program
will conduct its annual Senior Night.
The Yellow Jackets are 2-3 in region play and 2-6 overall. They are led by Head Coach Andy Rykard in his
first year as head coach for the Jackets. Fans will look out for running backs Gary Williams and Justin
Griffin. Chase Varnadoe will be the signal caller. The Jackets have struggled in 2005.
The Hurricane is coming off of a 35-3 win over Appling County in Baxley. They are 7-1 on the season, 5-0
in Region 2-AA, currently in first place. The Hurricane is ranked fifth in the sportswriter’s poll, the
AP Poll and second in the coach’s poll, gasports.com.
Senior running back Johnathan Roberts is coming off of a 104 yard, three touchdown game against the Pirates
while senior quarterback Josh Battle threw for 100 yards and a TD to wide receiver Darian Austile. Senior
fullback Nate Inman extended his all purpose yards total to 1245 yards on the season and scored his 13th
touchdown of the year through eight games.
Fitzgerald holds an overall 16-4-1 record over the Yellow Jackets dating back to 1952. The Canes defeated
the Jackets 49-0 last year in Hazlehurst.
Fitzgerald versus Jeff Davis, 7:30 at Fitzgerald’s Jaycee
Stadium on Friday.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Jeff Davis-Fitzgerald pre-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 10/20/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Appling post-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 10/18/05
|
|
| Scoring Summary: Fitz vs. Appling...
RANDY RODGERS - 10/15/05
|
|
|
Fitz vs Appling County, 35-3.
October 14, 2005.
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter:
9:13 Fitz 33 yard run, Roberts(22); EP, Ayala(16); Fitzgerald 7, AC 0.
0:37 AC 20 yard FG, Seirgo Rangel(1); Fitzgerald 7, AC 3.
2nd Quarter:
6:41 Fitz 27 yard run, Roberts(22); EP, Ayala(16). Fitzgerald 14, AC 3.
1:10 Fitz 4 yard run, Roberts(22); EP, Ayala(16). Fitzgerald 21, AC 3.
3rd Quarter:
9:09 Fitz 3 yard run, Inman(42); EP, Ayala(16). Fitzgerald 28, AC 3.
4:27 Fitz 51 yard pass, Battle(2) to Austile(84). Fitzgerald 35, AC 3.
4th Quarter:
None.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Hurricane takes region campaign on road to Baxley...
RANDY RODGERS - 10/13/05
|
|
|
The Purple Hurricane will take their campaign for the 2005 Region 2-AA Championship on the
road Friday when the Canes travel to Baxley to challenge the Appling County Pirates. The
Hurricane is 4-0 in Region 2-AA play while the Pirates are 1-3.
The Pirates are in the first year under Coach J.T. Pollack. Pollack came to Appling County
from Screven County where he was the offensive coordinator. The Pirates operate out of a
Wing T offensive scheme.
"They've got a new coach. In some games they've looked better than others," said Coach Robby
Pruitt. "They look like a team that is on the verge of finding themselves. They have good
athletes. They're sure good enough to kind of scare you when you look at their athleticism."
The Hurricane is coming off of a big 52-15 win over the Brantley County Herons. Fullback Nate
Inman broke the 1000 yard barrier with his 107 yards on the ground. Inman also had three pass
receptions for 28 yards. His teammates in the backfield also had prolific games; Johnathan
Roberts had 158 yards while Dion Ross had 88.
Appling's only win in the region is over Irwin County, 34-26. The Pirates lost to Bacon County
last Friday night by a score of 21-17.
After Friday's win over Brantley, the canes are in the driver's seat to defend their Region 2-AA
Championship. The Canes were 7-0 in the region in 2004. The Fitzgerald-Appling County game resulted
in a 52-21 Hurricane victory during that perfect 10-0 regular season a year ago.
Game time is 7:30 at Baxley's Jimmy Swain Stadium. The Stadium is located on Hwy 15 South in Baxley,
adjacent to Appling County High School.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Appling pre-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 10/13/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Brantley-Fitzgerald post-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 10/11/05
|
|
| Scoring Summary: Brantley vs. Fitz...
RANDY RODGERS - 10/10/05
|
|
|
Fitz vs. Brantley County, 52-15.
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter:
10:30 Fitz 93 yard run, Roberts(22); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 7, BC 0.
6:02 Fitz 8 yard run, Ross(32) ); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 14, BC 6.
5:30 Fitz 20 yard reception, Battle(2) to Austile(84); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 21, BC 6.
4:19 Fitz 35 yard reception, Battle(2) to Austile(84); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 28, BC 6.
1:34 Fitz 1 yard run, Inman(42); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 35, BC 6.
2nd Quarter:
2:42 Fitz Safety, Paschal(34); Fitz 37, BC 6.
3rd Quarter:
11:55 Fitz 5 yard run, Inman(42); EP, 2 point conversion, Inman(42); Fitz 45, BC 15.
9:15 Fitz 37 yard interception; EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 52, BC 15.
4th Quarter:
None.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Nate Inman named WALB POW after Charlton game...
MIKE KITCHENS -
10/10/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Homecoming festivities feature Brantley-Fitz battle...
RANDY RODGERS - 10/6/05
|
|
|
The Fitzgerald Purple Hurricane, the defending Region 2-AA Champion, will play host
to the
Brantley County Blue Herons on Friday night at the stadium for homecoming. Though the Canes
decimated the Herons in last year's 51-7 win in Nahunta, the Herons are 5-1 on the season
and are eager to show the region and the rest of the state that they are for real.
"They're much improved," said Fitzgerald's Robby Pruitt. "Their only loss was to Jeff Davis
and they were short six of their starters. They're scrappy."
The Herons will be coming to Jaycee Stadium the week after the Canes knocked of the number
one ranked and defending AA State Champion Charlton County Indians in a start to finish shoot
out in the stadium. "We're a prime candidate for an upset," said Coach Pruitt. "We're coming
off of a big win and with homecoming and all of the distractions, we're going to have to be
focused."
The Herons feature a passing attack with the quarterback, Stephan Prevatt(12), a junior, having
a strong and effective season as the Heron signal caller. Targets for Prevatt include Brandon
Collins(7), a junior wide receiver and Spencer Martin(22), a senior wide receiver. Scotty Lee(28),
the senior running back, Jay Edwards(42), the junior fullback, and Jeremy Griffin(2), a senior
also out of the Heron backfield, lead the Blue Herons in the ground game.
"Coach (Sean) Pender will have them ready," said Coach Pruitt. "When they lost to Jeff Davis, they
had six starters that weren't playing. We don't want to look past these guys."
Game time is 7:30 with the crowning of the Homecoming Queen 2005 at half time. Come out and support
the Purple Hurricane and enjoy the festivities of homecoming at Jaycee stadium, Friday night.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Brantley-Fitzgerald pre-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 10/6/05
|
|
| College Canes: Former Cane Fabian Daniels earns honor...
MIKE KITCHENS - 10/5/05
|
|
|
Former Hurricane running back Fabian Daniels was named the Mid-South Conference’s
Offensive Player of the Week after rushing for 174 yards and four touchdowns in Shorter's
win over Cumberland this past Saturday. This was the first time a Shorter player has ever rushed
for 100 yards in a game and it comes just three weeks after Fabian scored the first touchdown for
Shorter's newly-created football program.
Shorter's
Daniel earns award (Shorter College website)
|
|
| Press Clippings: Charlton-Fitzgerald post-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 10/4/05
|
|
| Scoring Summary: Charlton vs. Fitz...
RANDY RODGERS - 10/2/05
|
|
|
Fitz vs Charlton County, 29-22.
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter:
6:07 CC 4 yard reception, Dasher(9) to Donley(17); EP, Donley(9); Fitz 0, CC 7.
2nd Quarter:
8:44 CC 43 yard reception, Dasher(9) to Williams(4); EP, 1 yard run, Walker(31); Fitz 0, CC 15.
7:37 Fitz 48 yard run, Inman(42); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 7, CC 15.
3rd Quarter:
8:34 Fitz 2 yard run, Ross(32); EP, 1 1/2 yard run, Ross(32); Fitz 15, CC 15.
4th Quarter:
9:30 Fitz 17 yard run, Inman(42); EP, Ayala (16); Fitz 22, CC 15.
3:26 Fitz 5 yard run, Vickers(21); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 29, CC 15.
:23 CC 1 yard run, Dasher(9); EP, Dasher(9); Fitz 29, CC 22.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Charlton-Fitzgerald pre-game...
MIKE KITCHENS -
9/29/05
|
|
| College Canes: Updates on some former Canes playing college
ball...
MIKE KITCHENS - 9/29/05
|
|
|
2004 Fitzgerald graduates Carlos Bell and Jerry Taylor are playing football at Hibbing
Community College. Carlos recently scored his first college touchdown on a
punt return and had 212 all-purpose yards. Jerry had 13 completions in 18
attempts for 147 yards passing and 1 touchdown in a recent game. I added these
two former Canes to the list of College
Canes.
Roy Williams is transferring from Fort Valley to Albany
State, where he will be joining his brother Troy. Troy is a starting
linebacker for the Rams.
Of course, Fabian Daniels is still playing at Shorter
and Tyler and Tucker Pruitt are at Valdosta
State. And while Kevious Johnson is not playing this fall at Wofford,
he's reportedly planning to return next year to resume his academic and athletic
careers.
Finally, while I rarely mention other sports at phdc, former all-state defensive
back Trent Taylor is doing very well in baseball and with his academics at North
Florida Community College.
Congratulations to all these guys and keep up the good work!
|
|
| Press Clippings: Canes vs. Indians on Friday night; one of most
significant games in the state...
RANDY RODGERS - 9/29/05
|
|
|
Fitzgerald beat them in the regular season, but the Indians went all the way to the
title game and won it! The only blemish on the Indians' 2004 record was a 26-22 loss to
the Purple Hurricane of Fitzgerald at their home field, The Swamp. Kind of makes for an
interesting show down, doesn't it?
"They're good," said Fitzgerald Coach Robby Pruitt. "They have big play potential. They
have a great running back, a great quarterback, and wide-outs and receivers." He added,
"They concern you with the big play potential."
The Indians are ranked #1 in the AP poll and are 5-0 on the season, coming off of a 41-14
whipping of Appling County on Friday night. They have beaten McIntosh Academy and defending
Class A Co-Champion Clinch County by close scores, both contenders in Class A. The other
scores have not been close with the Charlton County Indians winning handily.
Fitzgerald is ranked number 9.
The Indians are led by quarterback Lemuel Walker(31), a bruiser out of the backfield. Other
outstanding players include Dwight Dasher(9) at quarterback and receivers D.J. Donley(17),
Terrence Milton(7), Devarro Greaves(81), and Justin Williams(4), all who had TDs in last
week's Appling County game.
On the defensive side of the ball, fans should look out for Jarques Nightingale(2), Deangelo
Dasher(38), Jonathan Ferguson(13), and Adam Davis(55).
Fitzgerald has some "pop" of their own with Nate Inman(42), the leading rusher, as well as
senior stand-outs Johnathan Roberts(22) and Tony Vickers(21), and Junior Dion Ross(32), all
running out of Robby Pruitt's backfield. Receivers Darian Austile(84) and Chad Thompson(82)
will also being looking for some fireworks of their own.
Byron Scott(66) and Jerad Smith(53) will anchor a stingy Hurricane defense and Russ Ridgeway(65)
will hold down the middle of the offensive line at center. Christian Angeles(96) will be the
kick-off specialist and place-kicker Victor Ayala(16) will continue his stellar junior year.
"We can beat them," said Coach Pruitt, "but we're going to have to play. Just like last year,
the team that makes the fewest mistakes will come out on top at the end of the game."
Game time will be at 7:30 at Fitzgerald's Jaycee Stadium. Come see whether the Canes can make
it 2-0 in the series between the Canes and the Indians or if the Indians will find a way to get
satisfaction over last year's defeat at the hand of the Purple Hurricane.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Hurricane starts slow, but gets on track for big
win over Pierce County...
RANDY RODGERS - 9/27/05
|
|
|
It took the Purple Hurricane most of the first quarter to get on the board, but
after Josh Battle and Johnathan Roberts hooked up with 3:38 left in the first, the
game was on and the Canes dominated on both sides of the ball, save the haunting
propensity for turnovers. The score came from 13 yards out. Victor Ayala added the
extra point and the score was 7-0.
Tony Vickers scored his first of two TDs just 15 seconds into quarter number two.
The score came on a 3 yard plunge. Ayala split the goal posts for the extra point.
That extended the score to 14-0, Fitz.
Vickers again stuck it in from a yard out with 5:38 left in the half. The Ayala extra
point was good and Fitzgerald led 21-0.
The senior fullback, Nate Inman, busted in from the one yard line to make the score
27-0 with 5:40 showing on the third quarter clock. Bring on Ayala, snap, place, and
kick it through and the score is 28-0.
The Hurricane closed out the third quarter, with just four seconds left, with their
fifth score of the evening on a Nate Inman, his second of the night, run from 15 yards
out. Victor Ayala, again, added the point after and the score had been extended to 35-0,
Fitzgerald.
The Bears did manage a score late in the game with 38 seconds left in the game. The strike
was a 23 yard pass play to the right corner of the playing field that made it into the
end zone. The extra point was no good making the final score 35-6, Hurricane.
Fitzgerald had 5 turnovers, four fumbles and an interception while the Bears threw two
to Canes and fumbled once.
'We played pretty well, again," said Coach Robby Pruitt. "We shot ourselves in the foot
with turnovers," he stated. "We had four turnovers in the first half, alone." He added,
"We had penalties, too. We can't play like that with what's coming next week (Charlton
County)."
"Even with all of the turnovers, we played pretty well. We never had to punt and the defense
held them to very little yardage," he concluded.
Fitzgerald will host a tough Charlton County team that is undefeated on Friday night at the
stadium. Fitzgerald, the 2-AA Region Champion, will host the Class AA State Champion,
Charlton, at Jaycee Stadium. Game time is 7:30.
|
|
| Scoring Summary: Fitz vs. Pierce...
RANDY RODGERS - 9/26/05
|
|
|
Fitz vs. Pierce County, 35-6
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter:
3:36 Fitz 13 yard pass reception, Battle(2) to Roberts(22; EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 7, Pierce 0.
2nd Quarter:
11:45 Fitz 3 yard run, Vickers(21); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 14, Pierce 0.
5:38 Fitz 1 yard run, Vickers (21); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 21, Pierce 0.
3rd Quarter:
5:40 Fitz 1 yard run, Inman(42); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 28, Pierce 0.
:04 Fitz 15 yard run, Inman (42); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 35, Pierce 0.
4th Quarter:
:38 Pierce 23 yard pass reception, 10 to 5; EP, 12, -NG; Fitz 35, Pierce 6.
|
|
| Phun with Photoshop: Survivor Cane Country...
MIKE KITCHENS - 9/24/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Pierce pre-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 9/22/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Hurricane takes 2-AA campaign to Blackshear...
RANDY RODGERS - 9/21/05
|
|
|
The Fitzgerald Purple Hurricane will be in Blackshear on Friday night to play the Pierce
County Bears. The struggling Bears are the second Region 2-AA opponent of the 2005
season.
Fitzgerald is 3-1 on the season with wins over Berrien County, Perry, and Bacon County.
The Bears are 1-3 tin the 2005 season, losing to Wayne County, 0-29, on August 19th;
Charlton County, 6-28, on August 26th, and Calvary Day, 8-35, on September 2nd. The Bears'
only win on the season came on last Friday night against Richmond Hill, 19-14.
Tom Hybl, father of former Oklahoma QB and Heisman candidate Nate Hybl, coaches the Bears.
They are coming off of a 1-9 2004 season. The Bears last successful season was in 2002
when the Bears went 3 rounds deep in the state play-offs. Graduation from that season has
left the Bears struggling. Fitzgerald defeated Pierce County, 49-0, on September 24th in
2004.
Leaders on the ground Nate Inman(42) and Johnathan Roberts(22) look to add to their rushing
totals for the season and receivers Darian Austile(84) and Chad Thompson(82) will be eying
passes by Quarterback Josh Battle(2).
Cane fans will travel to Blackshear for a 7:30 Region 2-AA game on Friday night.
|
|
| Scoring Summary: Bacon vs. Fitz...
RANDY RODGERS - 9/19/05
|
|
|
Fitz vs. Bacon County, 43-13.
Scoring Summary:
1st Quarter:
2:05 Bacon 12 yard pass, Mercer(3) to Robinson(22); EP, Martinez(86); Bacon County 7.
2nd Quarter:
11:23 Fitz 7 yard run, Inman(42); EP-2 pt attempt, Newell(14) NG; Fitz 6, Bacon County 7.
6:44 Fitz 26 yard pass, Battle(2) to Austile(84); EP-2 pt attempt, Battle(2) to Austile(84) NG; Fitzgerald 12, Bacon County 7.
3rd Quarter:
10:25 Fitz 42 yard run, Inman(42); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 19, Bacon County 7.
7:43 Fitz 44 yard punt return, Thomas(4); EP, Ayala(16); Fitz 26, Bacon County 7.
7:15 Fitz 21 yard run, Vickers(21); EP, Ayala(16); Fitzgerald 33, Bacon County 7.
4:12 Bacon 1 yard run, Mercer(3); EP, Martinex(86) NG; Fitzgerald 33, Bacon County 13.
1:48 Fitz 34 yard FG, Ayala(16); Fitz 36, Bacon County 13.
0:00 Fitz 33 yard run, Roberts(22); Fitz 43, Bacon County 13.
4th Quarter:
None
|
|
| Press Clippings: Bacon-Fitzgerald
post-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 9/19/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Bacon County in for Region 2-AA
opener...
RANDY RODGERS - 9/15/05
|
|
|
The Bacon County Red Raiders will be in on Friday night for a 7:30 contest, the
first Region 2-AA contest of the year for both programs. The two teams will be
meeting for advantage in the region, the first of seven games for both teams. The
Canes are 2-1 as are the Red Raiders from Alma.
The series goes back to 1956 and Fitzgerald enjoys a 12-1 win-loss record against
the football Red Raiders. The latest game was played in Alma last September 17th
when Robby Pruitt's Purple Hurricane got the win, 38-0.
"They're a lot better than they were last year," said head Coach Robby Pruitt. "We
will be working through the next week to get ready for them." He added, "We'll be
working on some of the problems that we have had in our first games. We need to hold
on to the ball."
Fitzgerald is the defending Region 2-AA Champion with a 2004 season record of 11-1
while the Red Raiders suffered through a 1-9 2004 season. Their only win came against
Pierce County by score of 27-0.
Fans will want to come out and support the Purple hurricane on Friday night, 7:30,
at the stadium.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Bacon-Fitzgerald
pre-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 9/15/05
|
|
| College Canes: Former Cane Fabian Daniels' first college TD
is one to remember...
MIKE KITCHENS - 9/12/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Canes get back on winning track; defeats
Perry, 21-3...
RANDY RODGERS - 9/7/05
|
|
|
The Purple Hurricane found the win column once more Friday night when they
defeated the Perry Panthers 21-3 in Perry. The AA Canes beat the Panthers in every
category except the turnover column, giving the ball over 4 times to the AAA Panthers.
The Hurricane scored first at 8:04 in the first quarter. Josh Battle(2) hit Chad
Thompson(82) on a 32 yard pass and run play that put the Hurricane up by six. The score
capped a 73 yard, nine play drive that started at the Fitzgerald 27. The point after attempt
was blocked and the Canes led by 6.
Perry hit the scoreboard on their first drive of the night by way of a 48 yard field
goal that was kicked by Jason Sweat. That made the score 6-3. with 6:08 still left in the
first quarter.
Jonathan Roberts(22) capped an eleven play drive with 2:32 left in the first half
when he scored from seven yards out. The two point attempt was no good and the score
was Fitzgerald 12, Perry 3 after the 70 yard drive.
Fitzgerald's defense got on the board with just 1:25 left in the first half when the
Canes tackled the Perry quarterback in the end zone for a safety. With the safety the
Canes had extended their lead to 14-3 going into the half.
Neither team got on the board again until the fourth quarter when Nate Inman(42)
got out for a 45 touchdown run with 8:59 left in the game. The point after attempt by
Victor Ayala(16) was good. The Inman run culminated an 85 yard, eight play drive.
Fitzgerald 21, Perry 3.
"We had a real good defensive effort," said Head coach Robby Pruitt. "I can't say
enough about the job that we did on that side of the ball." He added, "On offense we had
a lot of mistakes and turnovers, but it was a good win for the team. They were sky high, 2-0, and they were a good team. Our defense did a good job to keep them out of the end
zone."
Fitzgerald had four fumbles in the non-region contest. "We're going to have to get
better as we go into the region," said Pruitt. "We need to be more consistent and hold on
to the ball better if we are going to be successful."
"It was a good win for the program against a very good football team," said
Coach Pruitt. "We'll take the next two weeks to work on some of our problems before we
get into the region. Bacon County is much better than they were last year."
The Hurricane has an open date this week and will host the Bacon County Red
Raiders on September 16th in the first Region 2-AA contest for the Purple Hurricane.
Game time is 7:30 at Fitzgerald's Jaycee Stadium.
Scoring Summary:
Fitzgerald vs. Perry, 21-3
1st Quarter
8:04 Fitz 32 yard reception, Battle(2) to Thompson(82); EP, Ayala(16)-NG; Fitz 6,
Perry 0.
6:29 Perry 48 yard FG, Sweat(37); Fitz 6, Perry 3.
2nd Quarter
2:32 Fitz 7 yard run, Roberts(22); EP, 2-point attempt NG; Fitz 12, Perry 3.
1:25 Fitz Safety; Fitzgerald 14, Perry 3.
3rd Quarter
None
4th Quarter
8:59 Fitz 45 yard run, Inman(42); EP, Ayala(16); Fitzgerald 21, Perry 3.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Perry
post-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 9/6/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Perry
pre-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 9/1/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Tift County
post-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 8/29/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Turnovers and Tift County Blue Devils defeat
Fitzgerald, 26-13...
RANDY RODGERS - 8/27/05
|
|
|
The Tift County Blue Devils defended their home field Friday night with a big
win over the Fitzgerald Purple Hurricane. The Canes had the turnover bug and Tift
County made good with the big play.
Four fumbles by Fitzgerald, two in Tift County territory, were big factors in the
Fitzgerald loss to a team that is on the rebound with a new coaching staff along with what
appears to be a new attitude. The Devils also capitalized on the big play talents of their
quarterback, senior Scott Shuman(17).
Tift got on the scoreboard first when Shuman(17) on a busted play hit his
receiver, Jay Gaskins(8), for a TD. Shuman bobbled the ball and scrambled out of his
pocket and hit Gaskins on a comeback situation. Charlie Edwards(30) hit the extra point
to put the Devils up 7-0 at the 8:16 point of the first quarter.
It didn't take the Hurricane long to answer the Devil statement when Jonathan
Roberts(22) got out for an 80 yard TD run on the first Fitzgerald play form scrimmage.
Victor Ayala's(16) extra point try was good and the Canes and Devils were knotted up 7-
7 with 8:06 showing on the clock.
Tift County got the lead back for good with 2:02 left, still in the first quarter,
when Edwards(30) hit a 28 yard field goal.
The biggest play of the entire game came when Shuman hit his wide receiver,
Israel Troupe(11), with no ticks left on the clock on a 53 yard pass play after scrambling
from the grasp of Hurricane defenders. Edwards was good on the point after to make the
Tifton lead 17-7 at the half.
The Blue Devils capitalized on a Justin Newell(14) fumble at the Fitzgerald 22
when Edwards added his second field goal of the night at the 6:35 mark of quarter
number three.
Tift County capped their scoring with an 11 yard run by halfback Emanuel
Nelson(24) with just 4:05 left in the game. The score was set up by field position at the
Fitzgerald 16 after a 24 yard punt return by Israel Troupe(11). The extra point try by
Edwards was no good and Tift led 26-7.
With 3:14 left in the game, Josh Battle(2) returned to the game and marched the
Canes 76 yards on seven plays for the final score of the night. Battle(2) hit his tight end
Chad Thompson(82) at the 15 and Thompson made up the difference when he ran it in
the corner for the six points. Ayala's extra point try was no good making the final score
Tift County 26, Fitzgerald 13.
The Blue Devils appear to be a much improved team over 2004. That coupled
with a myriad of Hurricane miscues gave the Devils their first win in the last four tries.
Tift County is now 2-0 on the young season while Fitzgerald is 1-1.
Fitzgerald will travel to Perry next Friday to the Panther Pit for a 7:30 kick-off
with Perry High.
Fitzgerald vs. Tift County, 13-26
Scoring Summary
1st Quarter
8:16 Tift 24 yard reception, Gaskins(8); EP, Edwards(30); Fitzgerald 0, Tift 7.
8:05 Fitz 80 yard run, Roberts(22); EP, Ayala(16); Fitzgerald 7, Tift 7.
5:05 Tift 28 yard FG, Bowen(30); Fitzgerald 7, Tift 10.
2nd Quarter
0:00 Tift 53 yard reception, Troupe(11); EP, Bowen(30); Fitz 7, Tift 17.
3rd Quarter
6:35 Tift 32 yard FG, Bowen(30); Fitz 7, Tift 20.
4th Quarter
4:05 Tift 11 yard run, Emmanuel Nelson(24); EP, Bowen(30)-NG; Fitz 7, Tift 26.
0:35 Fitz 18 yard reception, Thompson(82); EP, Ayala(16)-NG; Fitz 13, Tift 26.
|
|
| Press Clippings: Fitzgerald-Tift County
pre-game...
MIKE KITCHENS - 8/25/05
|
|
| Press Clippings: Purple Hurricane to play Tift County at
Brodie Field...
RANDY RODGERS - 8/24/05
|
|
|
Fitzgerald's Hurricane may well be at the top in the AA rankings, but the Blue
Devils of Tifton are not impressed. They are smarting and would like nothing better than
to end a three game losing streak to their neighbors and to continue to excel under first
year head coach, Jay Walls.
The Devils took care of the Crisp County Cougars Friday night in Cordele, 31-0,
while the Purple Hurricane beat the Berrien County Rebels, 51-0.
"They're a solid team," said Head Coach Robby Pruitt. "They have a talented
offense and the defense is real good. We'll have our hands full."
The Devils bring back 2004 All State member Larry Dean in the Tift County
secondary and Jeffrey Searcy was the leading tackler against Crisp County. The Blue
Devils kept the Cougars out of the end zone.
Tift County's defense, their apparent strength, will try to work that same magic on
the strong Fitzgerald offense that features Nate Inman at fullback, Dion Ross and
Jonathan Roberts. Victor Ayala will continue to take care of kicking duties. He added 6
extra points and a field goal against Berrien County. The Fitzgerald offense put up 503
yards in their win over Berrien. Josh Battle threw to a variety of receivers including
Darian Austile, Erick Lately, and Inman running out of the backfield.
The Blue Devils have the advantage in size. "They're defensive line is real big,"
said Coach Pruitt. "We're going to have a real big night."
The Canes have some defensive highlights to brag about themselves. The
Hurricane held their opponent to zero points and featured an interception for a
touchdown by P.J. | |
