The History of Bobcat Football

The game of football was introduced to Blakely High by Dr. Jack Standifer in 1921.  In 1959, the Blakely Lions Club erected a marker at the entrance to Standifer Field which reads, “This athletic field is named in honor of Jack Guy Standifer, M.D., in appreciation of years of devoted service rendered to the schools of Blakely.  In the autumn of 1921, ‘Dr. Jack’ as he is affectionately known, introduced the game of football to Blakely High School, and named its team the Bobcats.” – Lance Owen,  Early County Football Through 65 Years

“The Blakely High School, with an enrollment of over four hundred, will enter the football arena this fall.  Through efforts of Superintendent Langston and Professor Smith, a football team is being organized at the Blakely High.  Considerable interest is being manifested by both the student body and the Citizens of Blakely” – Early County News, September 22, 1921

The Bobcat tradition continues today and the Bobcats still play for what is now known as Early County High School in Blakely, Georgia.  The team colors are Navy and Vegas Gold and they play in Region 1-AA of the Georgia High School Association.  They are coached by Head Coach and former EC Quarterback Joel Harvin along with his dedicated coaching staff. The team fight song is “Hooray for Bobcats” and continues to be played year after year by the ECHS Band of Blue.