On Saturday, the Elizabethton High School football team will host Springfield (10-3) in the state championship game in Cookeville. The Cyclones are undefeated after winning 14 games — 10 seasonal games and four tournament games. With their victory Friday night over Nolensville, the Cyclones earned a trip to the Blue Cross Bowl to play for the class 4A state championship.
Springfield is a formidable opponent, but the Cyclones have been waiting for more than 50 years to hoist the winning trophy.
It’s been a long time coming, and Coach Shawn Witten has been able to build a team that has been able to really compete at a high level in the playoffs.
Elizabethton High has earned a statewide reputation of academic achievement. Many of its students have excelled in the classroom. Now its football team has proven that it can play with the best.
The Cyclones have pumped up a loyal alumni base, many of which have attended all 14 games and will be in Cookeville Saturday to cheer for the Cyclones and to support them as they play the state title.
People that have graduated from Elizabethton High have a strong sense of pride.
The Cyclones are easy to like and to back. They’re poised and disciplined. They have talented players who are receiving interest from colleges in the area and statewide.
Seldom does Carter County and Elizabethton have an undefeated football team playing this late in the season. But, this year, Elizabethton has played hard and they’re hoping to bring home the state title Saturday. And, they deserve our support.
While we all like to win, athletics provide much more than wins and losses for schools, communities and the students who participate. Sports are a big deal for many students. Here is an opportunity for those who are sports-oriented to play on a team, and if it works out, do their high school proud with a winning season and perhaps a championship.
Most do not go that far despite the best efforts of the players and coaching staff. And that is one of the many lessons high school sports can offer. Not every team can win. But that shouldn’t stop players from doing their best.
We encourage the players and fans to display good sportsmanship at the Saturday game and keep their emotions in check and use good judgment. School spirit is more than just being proud of one’s school, but being a good representative, and learning to win with humility.
Win or lose on Saturday, the Cyclones’ success this season should be celebrated. A team achieving such a high level is good for all Carter County and Elizabethton public schools — and the entire community.
If you can go to the game Saturday in Cookeville, we urge you to do so. If you can’t, support them in other ways. Above all, have fun!