By Allen Hamrick
It has been said, “If a man has any brains at all, let him hold onto his calling, and in the grand sweep of things, his turn will come at last.” W. McCune.
During the 2025 season the Panther football team ground their way into one of the best teams in the state, evidenced by the fact they went to the quarterfinals in the state tournament. This team dedicated themselves to the sport of football and got the job done. In the world of high school football, Friday nights are about a team of eleven players and their standbys coming together and moving as one. This Panther team was in it to win every down, every kick and every quarter.
However, when the stadium lights go out and the season ends, it’s time for the collective big wigs to get together and recognize the individuals who went above and beyond and powered their teams. This past week the Panther football franchise solidified its place in the state with five players earning All State recognition. This is a testament to the grit, discipline and culture built up by Coach Jason Nichols and his assistant coaches. It’s grand enough to have one player make the list, but five across the different levels speaks volumes of the students in the halls of CCHS.
Leading the group was Jaxon Brown, kicker for the Panthers who was awarded 1st Team All State. Jakoby Nichols, Jaden Morris and Cooper Collins were named 2nd team All State. Coming in with Honorable Mention honors was Joel Elliott who I would put up against any wide receiver in the state. Not sure what the powers that be who make these decisions were thinking but honorable mention for a player as good as Joel Elliott is a kick in the pants. He deserved much better.
Clay County fans should be very proud of these young men because awards like this don’t just happen, they are a result of hard work and a refusal to quit. They didn’t just play for themselves; they played for the fans of this county. The pads and jerseys have been put away until the next season and these five players have set the standard for future Panther teams as to exactly what it takes to reach this level.
Congratulations to these players!
