By Betty Gandee

As you top the hill at Maysel Park, you can hear the cracking of the pads and the yelling of the cheers, for it’s that time again, time for the Clay County Panther Intermediate Football league to take the field.

Practice began this past week for 100+ kids in the county, and their faces told the story when they arrived Monday evening for the first day of practice. Everyone was catching up from summer break and joining their friends on the field, anticipating another successful season. These young athletes put in long hours of practice and are dedicated to the sport they all love.

Along with the hard work from the athletes themselves, there are amazing parents and 23 volunteer coaches who dedicate their time to inspire the youth of the community.  Through sports they encourage discipline, self-esteem, physical fitness, sportsmanship, and teamwork. These coaches volunteer their time to help these children reach their full potential on and off the field.

The CCPIF league is continually grateful for the use of Maysel park, through Clay County Parks and Recreation.  A special thank you to Don Jarvis for his continuing support to the league and the youth of Clay County.  They would also like to thank Clay County Board of Education for many years of support within the league and the community.  Thank you to the parents of the Little Panthers, without their time and help none of this would be possible. For they dedicate their time working concessions, cleaning the field, and by doing whatever is asked to insure a successful season, the league is truly grateful for such amazing parents.

With the Clay County High School football field being repaired, due to the 2016 flood, all home games scheduled will now be played at Calhoun Middle/High School.  They were generous enough to let Clay use their football field and concession stand facilities for the purpose of home games.  The league is grateful for the generosity of Calhoun County.