By Stephen D. Bowling

We continue an extended look at the games and events of the seasons of Breathitt Football. This week, we explore 1980.

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On January 3, 1980, Louise Hatmaker, Editor of The Jackson Times, published a long article about the “bright year” of 1980, which had just started. She provided a long list of new construction and new things coming to Jackson. She discussed the new offices for Jackson Insurance, increases in staff at the Social Security Office, BYF basketball, improvements at the Jackson Airport, work at Lees College, and work by the members of the Grass Roots Craft Cooperative. The first item that she discussed was the construction of the expansion of the football den.

The new year should also see the beginning and completion of the addition to the football stadium. The addition will provide more locker space and better dressing facilities for guest teams. The Bobcats have completely outgrown their existing dressing rooms.

The Jackson Times, January 3, 1980, page 2

One large construction project was also on the horizon for Breathitt High School. In 1975, the school board started an effort to construct a new high school. Superintendent Sebastian noted that the building was “one of the oldest in the state still in use.” He told Breathitt County School Board members that the building was too small for the number of students currently enrolled and maintenance on the many “outbuildings” housing the library, band, study hall, ROTC, and other classes was expensive.

As early as October 1976, the Breathitt County School Board and the Breathitt County Fiscal Court applied for approximately $5 million dollars to build a new high school. They did not receive the money, but they went to work to find state and local bonding to complete the project. By November 1979, the preliminary plans were ready, and bonding was secured for the $4 million dollar project.

The Board received several bids after advertising the project in The Jackson Times and other state papers for three weeks. The Board set June 5, 1980, as the date to open bids. The bids came in higher than expected, and the Board changed the scope of the work and advertised the work of a rebid. The Board opened the second round of bids on July 8, 1980, and demolition started.

According to the plan, crews started the demolition by removing the library, band, shop, and ROTC buildings that stood as individual buildings on the BHS campus. Then, crews tore away the “old gym” that was attached to the back of the school. This demolition made way for the construction of the new school, and then the old high school could be torn down to build the “new gym” sometime in 1982, when the building was completed. By the time school started in 1980, the “old gym” was gone.

By the time football practice started, the whirl of machinery and the rumble of the gym demolition filled the campus with dust and noise. The players and coaches were careful where they parked their cars to avoid the constant stream of trucks and equipment rolling into and out of campus.

While the dust billowed and the debris rolled away, the Football Boosters continued their work to support the football team.

Early in January 1980, the Boosters announced a series of fundraisers planned for the year. Their plans included a regional horse show in May and a bass tournament on Buckhorn Lake in April. The group worked to promote the projects, and both were huge successes, raising money for the locker room expansion.

On May 3, 1980, the tenth annual Breathitt County Horse Show was held on the field at the BHS Stadium. The event, sponsored by the Boosters, brought participants from across the state as far away as Louisville and Frankfort to Jackson. The “near-perfect weather” drew entries in all 25 categories.

“We were really pleased the way it all turned out,” Boosters President Al Collins said. “This was our first year to host the event, but we hope for bigger and better things next year.” The Boosters paid out more than $2,000 in prizes in addition to the trophies and ribbons awarded.

Breathitt’s First AD

The original plan of the Breathit County Schools Activity Committee in the early 1970s was to expand the athletic opportunities for Breathtit County Students. During the years that followed, Breathitt County High School added football, baseball, and track to the offerings for student activities. There were plans to add more.

Sports programs, including football, were added at the grade schools also. The coaches of the individual sports were having a difficult time scheduling field and gym time. The Breathitt County Board of Education had a solution.

On July 1, 1980, Dr. Ted “Teddy” Edmonds, Jr. started his job as Breathitt County School’s first full-time Athletic Director. Hired by the Board at its June Meeting, Edmonds started his position with many ideas and plans. “My number one objective,” he said in 1980, “is to allow young people in Breathitt County to participate and be involved in whatever sport or activity they feel they will be successful in. Our young people deserve the best, and I will not be satisfied taking second best to any other teams or programs.”

In addition to his duties as coordinator, Edmonds was charged by the Board with overseeing as acting Treasurer of every athletic fund in the county.

Edmonds told several football supporters that he had “long been an avid supporter of all Breathitt County athletic programs” and would continue to support them all, including football. He said his goal was to establish athletic programs at every county school in football, baseball, volleyball, girls’ softball, tennis, and track to get started. He visited every school and talked with administrators to help speed this effort along. He envisioned the county school teams as a network of “feeder programs” that would support the high school teams and “make Breathitt’s teams competitive with others in the state.”

“We have a lot of good things to look forward to in Breathitt County,” Edmonds added. “And I am excited to help create more opportunities for our kids.” Edmonds started his job on July 1, and his first task was to fund the 1980 football team’s trip to summer camp at Jabez, Kentucky.

Summer Camp and Practice

Bobcats to begin practice

With the temperature hovering near the 100-degree mark, it may be hard to get the football spirit. But the spirit is in the air, nevertheless.

If in doubt drop by the football field next week and watch the boys getting in shape for the season and especially for the first game. August 22.

Next week begins only the “formal” part of training. Some boys have been going down all summer for workouts and running according to coach Hilton.

Hilton says he has 43 upper classmen (sophomores-seniors) who’ll compose this year’s squad. Of that number 14 are seniors. That represents the largest number of seniors on a team during the 6 years football history at Breathitt High. The largest previous number was 11.

Hilton says he is expecting big things from his seniors–especially good leadership. Their attitude, he said will greatly influence the team’s desire and ability to play.

Right now, that attitude is good, and Hilton expects it to remain that way. “They are anxious to get started,” he said.

And so is their coach. He has been looking at a lot of film, he said and making general preparation for the season.

The schedule is going to be a difficult one this year.  “One of the hardest ones yet,” according to Hilton. “We’ll be playing some really good teams,” he added.

Johnson Center will have another traditionally strong team. At this point it looks as if Leslie County will have the best team they’ve ever had, and Whitesburg is expected to have a powerhouse. Cawood will have another good strong team.

“When you look at teams like that,” continued Hilton, “You know you’ll have a hard year. However, we are capable of beating anybody on our schedule.  It will be tough though.  One thing in our favor is that we’ll have some key positions back.”

As of Tuesday, about 9 freshmen had signed up for football. It seems many freshmen wait until school starts to let their football interest be known. Hilton said he would like to encourage freshmen to sign up before school starts.

They can do this by going to his office and letting him know of their interest.  Since there is a limited number of football uniforms, the best ones are likely to go to the early birds.

According to Hilton, Dr. Cornett has given each of the players a free physical.  They all passed it and are ready for action. “This is a fine contribution Dr. Cornett makes to the squad,” said coach Hilton, “and we certainly do appreciate it.”

Present plans call for practice to commence at 6:00 p.m. Monday.  However, if the heat wave remains with us, Coach said he might work in some morning sessions to beat the heat. 

The Jackson Times, July 17, 1980, page 14

Football Camp

OUR BREATHITT HIGH Football team left for camp on Sunday, August 10 at 1:00 a.m. The football camp was held at Jabez, Ky.

The boys worked very hard throughout the week and their hard work paid off when they played Louisville Doss and emerged victorious with a score of 18-14.

The Bobcats are coached by Dudley Hilton. His assistants are Johnny Gabbard and Jack Stanford.

WELL DONE, CATS!!!!

The Jackson Times, August 21, 1980, page 6

The Pre-Season

Football Bobcats ready for opener with J. Central

It may be hard to get excited about football when the temperature is climbing into the 90’s daily. But excitement is what it’s going to take to win the opening game Friday night with Johnson Central according to Coach Dudley Hilton.

Central is one of the very strong teams on this year’s schedule.  In fact, the first three teams the Bobcats play are “power houses,” says Hilton.  “The Cats have never beaten this team with which they’re opening their season. Therefore, a victory would be especially sweet.

Hilton feels the team is ready for the challenge. “We are farther advanced this year than we were last year so far as being ready to start the season,” he said.  Camp, which the boys attended last week, may be partly responsible for the team’s readiness.

The coaches are beginning the season with the largest number of players in the 7-year history of BHS football.  They are also beginning with the largest number of seniors ever -14 to be exact.

One quality missing on this year’s team is size.  Only 2 players are over 200 lbs.  Last Year, for example, 5 weighed in at over 200.  By way of contrast, Johnson Central has 9 players that push the scales beyond that mark.  One pushes them up to 255.

Hilton has some plans, though, that will counteract all that weight. “We’re hoping to use our quickness more,” he explained.  “We’re going to run more basic plays, and we’ll possibly pass more.”

He is also relying on his good crop of Seniors.  He said he felt their leadership was going to help the team throughout the year but especially early in the season.

Breathitt fans will see something this year they’ve never seen in local football.  There will be offensive and defensive teams composed of entirely different boys.  “This will put 22 boys in starting positions,” said their coach.

This will be a definite advantage, explained Hilton, if the weather remains as hot as it presently is.  Each team will have an opportunity for rest.  According to Johnson Central coach, Lewis Burkheimer, one of his team’s strengths is in their quarterback, Billy Johnson.  “We feel quarterback is one of our strong points,” Burkheimer said.  “Billy throws well,” he continued, “he handles the ball well and he handles himself well. He’s a young senior…but he’s shown a lot of leadership.’’

The Golden Eagle team is basically one of upper classmen.  From a roster of 45 only 12 were in the 10th grade.  They average about 175 pounds whereas Breathitt’s average is closer to 160.

When asked about noticeable improvement from last year Hilton said he had some boys that had really come along. Four that he mentioned moved up from that undefeated freshman team last year.  They are Jeff Gabbard, Derek McKnight, Kevin Collins, and Tim Noble.

Another very improved player, he said, is Bobby Hensley.  “Bobby took his turn; he never gave up, and now he’ll probably be a starter,” commented his coach.

He said Russ Hale was another one whose ability has improved considerably.  He has bigness to his advantage.  He’s one that pushed the scales past the 200-pound mark.  “He’s going to do a good job,” said Hilton.

“We feel like Robert Childers has come a long way too. He’s going to be another first-year starter. 

“Then there’s Rex Turner who’s going to help us a lot.”

One young man on whom the team will depend considerably is Robert Swartzentruber.  “He has worked hard,” said Hilton. “He can flat lay the foot to the ball.  This year we’re going to try to set the ball on the tee just like they do on television.”  Coach said he felt Robert would be on the field a lot kicking extra points, field goals, and kick offs.

Coach described Mark Collins as “an extremely good punter.”  Reportedly Morehead coach was very impressed with Mark’s punting ability.

The boys and coaching staff seem to be up for the game. They’re excited about it.

Hilton said a lot of excitement from the fans would help open the season with a victory.  The coaches and players invite all fans and potential fans to go with them Friday night to support them in their opening effort of the 1980 football season.

The Jackson Times, August 21, 1980, page 4

The 1980 Season

Johnson County Central – August 22, 1980 – Win 15 – 12

Breathitt’s first field goal wins opener over J-Central

Last week, Coach Hilton said two elements were necessary for the Bobcats to win their season opener against Johnson Central.  In order to pull off a victory, he said there would have to be excitement from the fans, and the Bobcats would have to play with quickness to counterbalance Johnson Central’s size.

Both conditions materialized, and the Cats won their first season game 15-12.  “A very large crowd followed us,” said Hilton.  “And they were right there whooping it up.”

Hilton said he was pleased with the way his squad played as a team and the way several individual players performed.  “That is not to say we didn’t make any mistakes,” he added.

“We made a lot of them, but some we can eliminate with experience.”

Robert Swartzentruber made some BHS football history during the game.  From 28 yards out in the 3rd quarter, he kicked Breathitt’s first field goal for 3 points giving the Bobcats a 9-0 lead.

“We are not used to 3-point plays,” said Hilton.  “Since all of our points have come on touchdowns.”

The field goal was set up on a run by Derek McKnight, who had a 60-yard run before he was brought down on the 18-yard line.  “Johnson Central held us on three downs, and we thought it would be a good opportunity to try a field goal,” explained Hilton.  He said they were willing to try it because they had a lot of faith in Robert.  From all indications, he could have kicked it another 30 yards and still scored because his kick was so true.

In the opening kick, off Breathitt won the toss but was unable to gain 10 yards on the first 3 downs.  Following a punt, Mark Collins got first down, which set the tempo of the game.

Breathitt then took the drive and went 68 yards on 20 plays, moving the ball to the 1-yard line.  Rhett McKnight carried the ball across for the first touchdown of the season.  Since the PAT was unsuccessful, the score was 6-0.  Breathitt completely dominated the first quarter of play.

During the second half, both teams settled down and played pretty good defense.  Breathitt continued to control the game, as evidenced by the total 72 plays the Cats completed from the line of scrimmage compared to 50 by Johnson Central.

The host team made both of its touchdowns in the 4th quarter.  One early in the last round, and the 2nd one came with 10 seconds left in the game.

It was a kind of desperation pass that quarterback Billy Johnson completed to Howard, Central’s big tied end, who was open down in the end zone.  On their possession, Breathitt completed another excellent 59-yard drive on 12 plays to move the ball 17 yards out.  Rex Turner, senior running back, took it from there for Breathitt’s second TD, making the score 15-6.

With 10 seconds left.  Central scored again on a pass from Johnson to Howard.  The PAT was no good; the game was over; Breathitt’s squad was off to a winning start.

Hilton said he thought 3-year starter Baker Burke “did a tremendous job.”  He complimented Burke for the senior leadership he provided the team.  According to their coach, Bucky Deaton and Wade Turner “blocked really well.”

“Offensively,” added Hilton, “we started 3 boys in the backfield who have never had that much experience back there, and I thought they ran the ball well.” They were Mike Ritchie, Jeff Gabbard, and Rex Turner.  Derek McKnight also had some experience there.

McKnight carried the ball 13 times for 98 yards; Turner had 20 carries for 84 yards; and Gabbard had 8 carries for 40 yards.  Rhett McKnight completed 1 of 9 passes.  Steve Collins caught the one for 15 yards.  Two of his passes were intercepted.

Overall, the team had 15 1st downs and ran 72 plays for 276 yards.  They generally run 50-52 plays per game.

“We are pretty well pleased with our offense,” said Hilton.  “We would like to have completed a few more passes, but we think that will improve with experience.”

The Cats lost some good men from the defensive line last year.  ‘‘We’re having trouble getting the line back where we want it,” said Hilton, “but at times, the boys really played good.”

Leading in tackles was senior Eddie Johnson with 7 and 7 assists.  Sophomore Tim Noble, starting his first game, had 6 tackles, 3 assists, and 1 fumble recovery.

Linebacker Kevin Collins, also a first-year starter, ended the game with 5 tackles and 5 assists.  Robert Swartzentruber 5 tackles and 2 assists; David Watkins 4 tackles, 2 assists.

Hilton said the coaches were pleased with their defense even though the team gave up two touchdowns, both of which were due to their secondary, which is young and inexperienced.  Hilton said he felt coaches Stanford and Gabbard did a good job calling the defense.

Friday night, the Bobcats take on powerful Leslie County at home.  Leslie County has one of the most impressive quarterbacks in Eastern Kentucky.  The coaches and players urge everybody to come out and enjoy the game and be a part of the first official activity of the 1980 Honey Festival.

The Jackson Times, August 28, 1980, page 4

Leslie County – August 29, 1980 – Loss 20 – 30

Cats relax, below 20-8 lead to lose Honey Bowl

Going into the 4th quarter of the Honey Bowl Friday night, the Bobcats had a 20-8 lead. “We had them (LeslieCounty) beat,” said Coach Hilton.  “Then we gave it away by relaxing too much.”

Everything went according to plan down to the last 10 minutes.  Then the bottom dropped out, and Breathitt lost 30-20.

“We put a lot into the game,” said Hilton.  “Games like that are hard to lose.”

The sudden turn of events occurred when the Cats gave up a long touchdown pass early in the final quarter and then fumbled the ball.  That was followed by another long TD pass and fumble, putting the guest team out front 22-20.

“Suddenly, we had done 4 things we said we must not do,” observed Hilton.  “We had given up 2 TD passes and 2 fumbles.”

He said he felt the fans could have helped some by being more vocal.  When we got down, we needed a little help to pick us up,” he said.  “It seemed like our side was just dead.  We got in a hole, and neither the players nor fans seemed able to get out.”

Yet, it wasn’t all that bad of a ball game.  Through the first three quarters especially, the fans saw

some excellent football.  They also saw one of Kentucky’s outstanding young athletes in action.  Whitaker.  Leslie’s quarterback is major college material.  Hilton said the coaches at U.K. are definitely interested in him.

Looking at the positive side of the situation, the loss of Leslie was the first in 6 games.  “You might say we won the battle but lost the war,” observed Hilton.  He pointed out that the Breathitt Boys hit Leslie much harder than Leslie hit them.

Because of Leslie’s super quarterback, two strong running backs, and overall strength, he feels his team was possibly playing over its head.

“If we continue playing like we played against them, we should have a good season,” he added.

By way of comparison, last year, the Cats had 11 turnovers in the Leslie game.  This year, they had only 3.

Leslie only lost 2 players from last year’s squad, while Breathitt lost 8.  In case one does not remember the beating the Cats took from Leslie last year, it was 31-6.

One school record was set in the game.  Rex Turner got 36 carries, which passed by 3 Glen Patrick’s record of last year.

Scott Noble got 13 tackles, which tied Danny Back’s 1978 record.  Others who assisted on defense were Mike Ritchie with 11 tackles and 2 assists; Mike Ritchie with 11 and 2; Eddie Johnson with 7 and 4; Tim Noble with 7 and 3: Robert Swartzentruber with 6 and 0; Kevin Collins with 6 and 0; and Robert Childers with 6 and 4.

On offense, Rex Turner had 36 carries for 158 yards, including 1 touchdown and 1 PAT.  Jeff Gabbard carried the ball 13 times for 46 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Mike Ritchie gained 17 yards on 4 carries.

Rhett McKnight completed 5 of 11 passes for 56 yards, and Mike Watts was 1 for 1 with a gain of 8 yards.

Jeff Gabbard and Steve Collins caught 2 passes each for 18 and 19 yards, respectively.

Gabbard’s first TD was completed after 72 yards and 15 plays.  Turner’s TD took 16 plays for 65 yards, and Gabbard’s 2nd took only 5 plays for 24 yards.  Rex Turner scored the team’s only extra point.

Trophies were presented at the end of the game to outstanding players on each team.  Bobcat recognition was as follows: best defensive lineman, Robert Swartzentruber; best defensive back, Eddie Johnson; best offensive back, Rex Turner; best offensive lineman.  Baker Burke and MVP.  Mike Ritchie.

Mike Whitaker received the MVP trophy from Leslie County.

Friday night, the Cats travel to Hazard to tangle with the Bulldogs.  “We’re going to need all the fan support we can get,” said Hilton.  He and the team are hoping for a big turnout.  Since the team lost the last game, they will need fan support more than ever.  Be there whooping it up and help raise team morale back to where it was before the Honey Bowl.

The Jackson Times, September 4, 1980, page 4

In an unfortunate event, thieves broke into the BHS Coliseum during the Leslie County game and “cleaned out” the Leslie County locker room.

LESLIE CO. EAGLES “ROBBED”

Det. Pat Simpson said that during the Breathitt-Leslie County football game Friday evening, August 29, thieves broke into the Breathitt High Coliseum and literally “cleaned out” the Leslie County ball players.

The thieves, Simpson, said, had taken their clothing, billfolds, money, class rings
and all other things of value. It seemed that the only consolation the Leslie County players got out of the trip was winning the game by a score of 20-30.

The thieves had gained entrance inyo the building by breaking out the glass in a back door. No suspects have been apprehended. The police didn’t give any estimate on the money value of the items stolen, but it apparently was a few hundred dollars.

The Jackson Times, September 11, 1980, page 1

Hazard – September 5, 1980 – Win 31 – 14

Bobcats defeat Hazard

Rex Turner scored 12 points Friday night to lead the Bobcats to a 31-14 ‘victory over Hazard Bulldogs.  Turner had two touchdown runs of 43 and 26 yards, which helped him gain a total of 146 yards on 13 carries during the game.  Breathitt rolled up 25 points in the first 3 quarters, while Hazard didn’t put any points on the board until the 3rd quarter.

With 1:13 left in the first quarter, Bucky Deaton put the first score on the board with his 15-yard pass from quarterback Rhett McKnight.  The TD was the result of a Hazard fumble on their 37-yard line.  Derek McKnight recovered that fumble, and four plays later, Deaton scored.

The Cats’ second TD likewise followed a Bulldog fumble.  It happened early in the 2nd period, right after the host team had two 15-yard penalties slapped to them.  From 5 yards out, Mike Ritchie scored, pushing the score to 12-0.

“It is the sign of a good football team,” said coach Hilton, “that can capitalize on another team’s mistakes.”

Hazard was beset with adversaries throughout the game.  Reportedly, 11 of their players were carried off the field.  They fumbled the ball and lost 90 yards through poor sportsmanship, having too many men on the field, game delays, and breaking other rules.

“After we got our first score, I thought we played exceptionally well,” said Hilton.  He said he thought the running backs, especially Rex Turner, played well.

Turner scored Breathitt’s 3rd and 4th touchdowns.

With 10:43 left in the 3rd quarter, Rex Turner, with his indomitable spirit to score, simply broke right through Hazard’s defense and continued down the field for one of the thrilling moments in the game.

Robert Swartzentruber kicked the extra point, making the score 19-0.

Robert Morris put Hazard on the board when he scored from 12 yards out.

Still, in the 3rd period, Turner marched the ball in from 26 yards out following a steady drive by the Bobcats as they moved the ball from Hazard’s 48-yard line.

Jeff Gabbard scampered in from 15 yards out to give the Bobcats their final 6 points for a total of 31.

Looking at the game as a whole, Hilton observed, “This was the first game this year we did not line up and run right straight at people…We ran a lot of options and some good passes.  It opened up Hazard’s defense real good.”

And speaking of defense, Hilton said the team was missing Eddie Johnson very much.  (He’s out with a broken ankle).

“We’ll never find anyone to take his place, but we’ll have to get as close as we can.” He may be out for the rest of the season, Hilton confirmed.

In addition to the 146 yards Rex Turner gained on offense, Jeff Gabbard got 50 on 6 carries; Mike Ritchie carried the ball 9 times for 40 yards, and Gary Thompson gained 27 on 4 carries.

Rhett McKnight completed 5 of his 7 passes.  “Rhett had a fine night,” said the coach.  “That kind of passing is what we’ve needed badly in the last two games.” he continued.  He gained 72 yards on his completed passes.

Mike Watts was 1 for 1 with 17 yards.

On the receiving end, Bucky Deaton caught 3 for 63 yards.

The team was led in tackles by Kevin Collins, who had 8.  Robert Swartzentruber had 7 and 2 assists; Scott Noble 6 and 1 interception; Mike Watts 4 and 1 fumble recovery; Robert Childers 4 and 1 assist; David Watkins 4 and 2 assists.

Other fumble recoveries were made by Derek McKnight and Baker Burke.

Friday night, the Cats (2-1) will take on Knott County Central at home.  This is the first year Knott has had a varsity team, but they are not to be taken lightly.  Their present team has been playing together for 3 years.  They have a 2-2 record.

The action begins at 8:00 p.m.  Everybody is encouraged to come out and support the Cats and enjoy a good game of football.

The Jackson Times, September 11, 1980, page 6

Knott County Central – September 12, 1980 – Win 61 – 20

Knott Central fails to slow Breathitt’s offense

The Breathitt Bobcats put their offense in overdrive Friday night, rolling up 443 yards and grinding the Knott Central Patriots into submission with a 61-20 triumph.

“A team has to be doing something right,” said Coach Hilton, “anytime it can get 9 possessions and not make any turnovers.  I thought our offense played really well.” They averaged 7 yards per play.

The Cats played with determination from the onset of the game.  They got their first possession of the ball on their own 38-yard line and 6 first downs later, had it on Knott’s 1-yard line.  From there, Mike Ritchie took it in for the first touchdown, followed by Robert Swartzentruber’s successful kick, making the score 7-0.

Ritchie, who ran most of Breathitt’s plays on their first possession, had a game total of 85 yards on 13 carries. 

Breathitt defense was unable to stop the Patriots in the first quarter, a source of some concern early in the game.  With 2:03 left in the first period, John Taylor scored on a 37-yard run, pushing the score to 7-6.

Midway through the 2nd round, Bryon Bergman scored on a TD pass by Jimmy Collins front 5 yards out.  On their best offensive drive of the game, the Patriots had moved the hall from their own 28-yard line.  Through 5 first downs and 13 plays, they moved the ball an average of 5.2 yards per play for their 2^nd touchdown.

They did not score again until the 4^th quarter, by which time the Cats had accumulated 55 points to their 20.  Taylor scored their last TD on a 27-yard run.  Bergman caught the pass from Collins for the PAT.

“Knott Central had an excellent team,” said Coach Hilton.  “They were big, and they had two good running backs.  We just kept hilling them until they got down on themselves. “They couldn’t take the hard contact we kept dishing out,” he added.

The Breathitt JV’s played much of the 2nd half.  In fact, they scored the last 3 touchdowns even though Knott Central kept their varsity in.  This is the first year for varsity play at Knott Central.

Right after the guest team scored their first touchdown, the score was the closest of any time during the game, 7-6.  That was short-lived as the Cats came back on their ensuing possession and quickly moved the ball from Knott’s 45-yard line to their own 17 from where Steve Collins scored on a pass from Mike Watts.  Rex Turner scored the PAT for a 15-6 lead.

Bergman’s score made it 15-12, and from there, the Cats gradually widened the margin.  Bucky Deaton’s 41-yard spectacular run and Swartzentruber’s successful kick made it 21-12.  Two seconds before intermission, Derek McKnight took the ball in from 1 yard out, and Jeff Gabbard made the extra point, making the half-time score 30-12.

Five touchdowns were scored in the last half.  Mike Watts scored on a 9-yard run; Rex Turner took it from 10 yards out.

From about 1 yard out, the following three had TDs to their credit: Gary Thompson (A good way to celebrate his 15th birthday), Jim Stacy, and Steve Thomas.  “Our JV’s went in and did a real good job for us,” observed Hilton.  “Steve Thomas, our third-string quarterback, did a super job,” he added.

Rex Turner was the leading ball carrier in the game.  He gained 115 yards on his 13 carries.  He scored 1 TD and 1 PAT.  Quarterback Mike Watts completed 6 of his 7 passes for 129 yards, one of which was a 41-yard touchdown.

Robert Childers led the team in tackles.  He had 8 to his credit with 3 assists.  Coming in close behind was Kevin Collins with 7 tackles and 8 assists; Tim Noble with 5 and 0; David Watkins with 5 and 0; Mark Collins with 4 and 5; Mike Watts with 4 and 3; and Gary Thompson with 4 and 0.

Mike Watts was featured this week in The Lexington Herald honor roll.  Concerning Mike the article read, “This junior quarterback hit on six of seven passes for 129 yards and 2 TDs and added a 9-yard TD run to lead Breathitt to a 61 -20 victory over Knott County.  Watts’ touchdown passes went for 17 yards to Steve Collins and 41 yards to Jerry Deaton.”

Friday night, the Cats take on Morgan County away.  “That will probably be the toughest team we’ve played to date,” said Hilton.  “They are a real strong team,” he explained.  The team has an outstanding freshman, Bill Allen.  In their last game, he accounted for 240 yards of offense as he ran for 1 TD and passed for 2 more.

Another strong player is 165-pound senior noseguard Steve Keller.  He was certified with making 13 solo tackles and 18 assists in Morgan’s 42-14 romp over M.C. Napier last weekend.

The Jackson Times, September 18, 1980, page 10

Game Film

In September 1980, Coach Dudley Hilton invited Breathtit High School football fans to a meeting he planned on September 18. He wanted fans to come together at the Breathtit County Library on College Avenue to watch the film from the previous week. The weekly meeting was patterned after several successful film sessions held by coaches around the state.

The goal of the event was to allow the Bobcat fans to discuss the game and to learn more about the relatively new game of football.

Too Many Scrimmages

About the time Coach Hilton started his film session in mid-September 1980, the Breathitt County team found itself in the middle of a minor controversy. Back at summer camp, Breathitt played a scrimmage with the Dragons from Louisville Doss. Breathitt’s coaches and players were pleased that they won the matchup by a score of 18-14. The Bobcats celebrated and went back to work. They thought nothing else of the matchup.

Three games into the 1980 season, Doss Coach Steve Stansbury found himself in hot water. The parents of his team were not happy. They complained, and one reported that Stansbury’s team had played an “illegal scrimmage game against Bretahitt County” while at camp. It did not help that his team was 0-3. Louisville Doss Athletic Director Dan Shepard and Principal John Pittenger suspended Stansbury for “unsatisfactory performance and because of the alleged violation of KHSAA rules.” Principal Pittenger later noted that a total of ten complaints had been filed against Stansbury by parents and officials.

Some disagreements followed in Louisville, and, eventually, Coach Hilton confirmed to The Louisville Courier-Journal that the two teams did play a game at camp while at Jabez. The Breathitt-Doss game made the third scrimmage for the Louisville team when only two were permitted by KHSAA regulations. Hilton told the newspaper that Coach Stanbury “called me and asked me to keep our scrimmage quiet, but I can’t lie.” Hilton said that he called Stansbury back and told him that he was going to tell the truth and clear things up.

The day after Hilton gave the details of the scrimmage to the newspaper, Stansbury announced his resignation as head coach “because I don’t want to jeopardize Doss athletics.” KHSAA found later that Doss had “intentionally violated the rules,” and the governing body took “away a pre-season scrimmage for the Doss program for 1981 and 1982.” With the unwanted distraction behind him, Coach Hilton was once again happy to focus on Breathitt football.

Morgan County – September 19, 1980 – Win 18 – 0

TD’s by Turner, Deaton lead to victory

Bobcats shut out Morgan’s Raiders

Rex Turner accounted for two touchdowns, and Bucky Deaton returned a punt 50 yards for another as the Bobcats buried Morgan County Friday night 18-0.  It was the Cats’ first shutout of the season, and they stand now at 4-1.

Rex Turner got his first TD in the opening of the 3rd quarter was a spectacular 48-yard run.

Bucky Deaton made history with his touchdown because he was the first in Breathitt High football to ever return a punt for a TD.  “I didn’t do it alone,” explained Bucky.  He got some good blocking from Wade Turner and Mark Collins, according to his coach. Deaton said Mark hit one player, who then got up only to be laid out the second time by Mark.

Rex Turner likewise had some fine blocking that opened the field for his TD.  Thanks to Steve Collins and Mike Ritchie.  Turner was able to complete his 48-yard touchdown run for the final 18-0 score.

The opening part of the game was mostly a process of trading points until Breathitt got a good drive going, and Rex took the ball in for the first touchdown.

Mike Ritchie, like Deaton, also made history in the game.  He had the most solo tackles ever made in a Breathitt High game.  He had 18 tackles and 3 assists.  Another standout on defense was Kevin Collins, with 11 tackles and 3 assists.

“Overall, it was what we’ve been wanting all year- a good defensive effort by our front linemen,” said coach Hilton.  “The linemen up front did what they were supposed to.  Between the two linebackers, they had 29 tackles.  This showed that the linemen up front were doing what they were supposed to.

Hilton was very complimentary of the good effort from his secondary.  “They (secondary) came out throwing….and” proved what they really can do when they play loose back there and just play good defense.  I thought Mike Watts, Scott Noble, and Mark Collins did a real good job,” he concluded.

Rex Turner was the leading carrier.  He gained 168 yards on 24 carries.  Derek McKnight carried the ball 7 times for 34 yards, and Jeff Gabbard 6 times for 17 yards.

In passing, Rhett McKnight completed 1 for 5, while Mike Watts was 1 for 1.  On the receiving end, Steve Collins caught 1 for 32 yards.

Mike Ritchie led the team in tackles and assists with 18 and 3, respectively.  For Kevin Collins, it was 11 and 3; Wade Turner 8 and 5; Tim Noble 6 and 0; Mike Watts 6 and 2; Robert Swartzentruber 5 and 2.  Ritchie and Collins also had 1 interception each.

Four passes were intercepted, which were important factors in Breathitt’s winning.  They were made by Kevin Collins, Mike Ritchie, Scott Noble, and Mark Collins.

The Jackson Times, September 25, 1980, page 8

Lewis Co. brings strong quarterback to Friday’s game

What can the Cats expect when they meet Lewis County Friday night here at home?

One strength is their quarterback, according to coach Bill Robinson.  The quarterback, by the way, is Robinson’s son.  “He throws the ball awfully good,” said his dad.  “We’d like to throw the ball 50 times a game.”

Last year, young Robinson completed 61 percent (101 of 160) of his passes.  Word is that this year, he has improved quite a bit.  He’s also a lot stronger than last year.

If the weather is good, Lewis County is depending on their quarterback for some points.

Coach Robinson says his offense usually doesn’t line up in the same formation two straight times during any game.  “That makes teams have to scout us good.”

The entire backfield returned for Lewis County, including Robinson’s son, Ernie Robinson, the senior signal-caller with a cannon arm.  The big rushers will be Charlie Thompson, Terry Riley, a junior with two years of starting experience, and Troy Hughes.

“All three played in the backfield, so we have plenty of experience,” explained Robinson.  “This year, with those big backs, we’re tempted to run it some.” They do make awful good blockers.  We’ll try to make it 50-50 run or pass.”

We’ll see Charlie Thompson some as a wide receiver.  Besides Thompson, junior speedster Bobby Poynter will be at split end, with Junior Chris Evans at tight end.

On the offensive line, with only one starter back, is Lewis County’s weakness in both size and experience.  The Lions have Tim Bartee, a 5-11 230-pound senior tackle, to offer the only experience and size for Robinson’s front wall.

Rick Butler, a 6-0, 170-pounder, will play guard but started at tight end position last year.

On the left side of the Lewis County line will be sophomore tackle Loran Greene, a 6-0, 170-pounder, with Brian Smith (5-6, 160-pounder) at guard.  Center Andy Haley (5-6 and 165 lbs.) will work the middle for the Lions, while Butler and Bartee make up the right side.

The Lions’ “deep three” consists of junior Rich Marth, 1979 All-Eastern Kentucky Conference, senior Tommy Hobson, and Roch Liles.  But the key to the Lewis defense, according to Robinson, will be linebackers Hughes and Riley.

“If the linebackers come through,” Robinson said, “we’ll be all right on defense.” The line will have Chris Evans and Butler at Defense ends, sophomore Lewis Brewer and Billy Kamer at tackles, and noseguard David Filliam in the middle.

“Defense is what we’re worried about,” admitted Robinson.  “We’re hoping the two big linebackers will be able to do the job.

Robinson, along with quarterbacking the Lions, will again be the kicking ace.  He booted two field goals and 9 extra points last year.  “We figure Ernie has won 9 games in the last 2 years with his kicking,” said his dad.

The Jackson Times, September 25, 1980, page 8

Lewis County – September 26, 1980 – Win 59 – 12

Clay County next possible victim

Bobcats bury Lewis Co. 59-12

“I think we played one of the best football games we possibly ever played here.” So said coach Hilton in reference to the Friday night Lewis County game in which the Bobcats buried their guests 59-12.

“Seemed like everything we did went well,” added Hilton.  “And I think it was due to our good team effort- our best team effort for a long time.”

Of no little significance is the excellent leadership the seniors are giving to the squad.  Another factor Hilton says is important is the ability to have an offensive and defensive team.  Early in the game, he said the coaches were able to get the entire defensive team together to point out Lewis County’s weaknesses.  Many teams are unable to do this and have to struggle with the consequences.

Lewis County opened the game with a good, strong drive, moving the ball down for a touchdown in spite of the Bobcat defense.  After that conference with the Coaches, things changed.  Lewis Co. was unable to ever generate any more excitement for the game even though they came into the game with a 3-2 record.

While the defense held them down, Breathitt’s offense moved the ball skillfully for a total of 8 TDs.  “Our offensive line is one of the best around,” said Coach Hilton.  “They’re doing a super job.  When you have boys like David King, Wade Turner, Baker Burke, Jimmy Campbell, Steve Collins, Bobby Hensley, and Bucky Deaton on the line, you have 7 super guys.”

When a team can put 59 points on the board in a game and 61 in another one, somebody up front has to be blocking some observed Hilton.

Rex Turner led the Cats in TDs Friday on runs of 7, 25, and 2 yards.  He carried the ball a total of 15 times for 91 yards.

Jeff Gabbard, Mike Ritchie, Derek McKnight, and Steve Chapman also ran for Breathitt scores, and Bucky Deaton caught a 12-yard pass from Rhett McKnight.

Gabbard’s TD was on a 9-yard run; Ritchie’s a 3-yard run; McKnight’s 1-yard, and Chapman’s 4.

Rhett McKnight and Mike Watts had a good night passing.  Each was 4 for 4.

McKnight threw for 69 yards and Watts 46.

On the receiving end were Bucky Deaton and Steve Collins.  Deaton caught 6 for 94 yards and Collins 2 for 21.  Steve Collins had one PAT.

The team ran a total of 404 yards on 58 plays.  That’s an average of 7 per play.  Kevin Collins was the leading tackler with 7 and 7 assists with 1 interception.  Tim Noble had 5 tackles and 1 assist; Jim Stacy 4 and 1; Mike Ritchie 3 and 9.  Stacy made an interception.

The Breathitt Junior Varsity played the last part of the game even though Lewis County kept its varsity in.  “We were tickled to death with the way our JV came in and played,” said Hilton.  All of which led him to comment that Gary Thompson, Jim Stacy, and Steve Chapman will make a tremendous backfield in the future.

Several of the JVs made some interesting plays.  Take the play, for instance, in the 4th quarter when it was 1st down and 10.  Gary Thompson carried the ball for 11 yards, the last 5 of which he had a half-dozen Lewis County players on his back before they brought him down.

Steve Chapman’s TD, the game’s last, followed some nice plays by the Cats.

Steve Thomas stole the show toward the end of the game.  He came in and ran the ball really well at quarterback, ran offense excitingly well, and delighted the audience with his defensive show.  He pulled down 2 passes and almost got the 3rd.

Friday night, the Breathitt Squad takes on Clay County, a district game.  Clay is 3-3.  It promises to be a good game, and fans are encouraged to come out and support the Bobcats.  Attendance at the last games has been very good.  Counting Clay County, there will be only 3 more home games.

For the last two games, the Booster’s Club has given the game ball to the fan with the lucky number.  How does one get a lucky number?  All football programs are numbered, and the winner is drawn toward the end of the game.

Sam Sanders won the first football and Elmer Bowling the second. 

Friday night may be your lucky night.  Come out for the game, buy you a program, and watch your fine football squad, now 5-1, in action.

Furthermore, Friday night has been designated alumni appreciation night.  All the former football players have been given a special invitation to be present for the Breathitt-Clay Contest.

The Jackson Times, October 2, 1980, page 18

Cats featured in Herald’s Honor Roll

For the last two weeks, Rex Turner has made the Lexington-Herald’s High School Football Honor Roll.  On September 22, the Herald said, “Turner took care of most of the Offense (Morgan Co. game), rushing for 168 yards on 24 carries and two touchdowns.”

Monday of this week, the paper read, “Turner picked up 95 yards rushing on just 13 carries and scored three touchdowns and two 2-point conversions in Breathitt’s 59-12 win over Lewis County.”

Mike Ritchie was also featured on September 22.  Concerning him, the paper stated, “Ritchie, a 5-11, 165-pound senior linebacker, was credited with making 18 solo tackles, five assists, and one interception to lead Breathitt to an 18-0 win over Morgan County.”

The Jackson Times, October 2, 1980, page 18

Alumni Night Oct. 3

Friday, October 3, at Breathitt Co. High, has been set aside as “Football Alumni Night.”  Breathitt High School would like to extend an invitation to all graduated football team members to be in attendance at the Breathitt-Clay Co. football game this Friday night.

We have had football at Breahtitt County High School for seven years, and we are proud to be able to host our first Football Alumni Night. There have been approximately 50 young men to graduated as members of our football team.

There will be a table set up for the registration of the alumni at the entrance of the ticket gate. Please be sure to register your names at this table as you come in.

We hope to begin a new tradition at Breathitt High with our Football Alumni Night. Please come and help us make this a successful event as the Breathitt County Bobcats take on the Clay County Tigers in our third district game. The game begins at 8:00 p.m.

The Jackson Times, October 2, 1980, page 18

Clay County – October 3, 1980 – Win 53 – 7

Cats romp to easy victory over Clay

The Bobcats started their first drive Friday night from their own 25-yard line. Five and half minutes and 4 first downs later, the ball was on Clay County’s 12-yard line.  On a good clean snap from Center David King, quarterback Rhett McKnight threw to Rex Turner, who took the ball in for the Cats’ first touchdown.  Robert Swartzentruber’s kick made the score 7-0.

It was the first in a series of scores that gave Breathitt its 53-7 romp over visiting Clay County.

Now 6-1, the Bobcats played another super game, holding Clay County scoreless until the last 2 minutes of the game.

The guest team began its first play on their own 27 and threw 6 straight incomplete passes.

Breathitt’s 2nd possession was on their 30.  Having received a 15-yard penalty, their second of the evening, the Cats were unable to make their first down.  They got a good break, though, when Clay County’s punt receiver fumbled Mark Collins’ punt, and Steve Collins recovered it.  The offense steadily moved the ball down the field, and Rhett McKnight threw a 15-yard pass to Bucky Deaton for another TD with 3:22 remaining in the first quarter.

On the Tigers’ third play, Mike Ritchie intercepted a pass and simply tore through their line for a 44-yard run and another TD.  Jeff Gabbard ran the two-point conversion, and the score was 21-0.

More of the same.  Read on.  It was Clay’s ball again.  This time, Mike didn’t wait.  He intercepted another pass- this time on their first play- and returned it for a forty-yard touchdown with 31 seconds remaining in the first period.  McKnight ran the extra points for a 29-0 score.

“A score like that,” said Coach Hilton, “is a hard feat to accomplish.”

Continuing, he added, “I thought Coach Stanford did a fine job calling our defense.  I thought they looked super.”

Looking at the one-sided score, Hilton observed that his team did not try to rub it in on the Tigers.  “We dressed 42 players,” he said, “and played them all.”  Only two players, Gary Thompson and Steve Chapman, did not get to play, and that was because they were injured.

Early in the 2nd quarter, Breathitt moved the ball from the field from their 43rd to Clay’s 2-yard line only to fumble it.  It was not a wasted effort, though.  Clay also fumbled; Kevin Collins recovered and scored on a 7-yard fumble return.

Before the half-time horn sounded, Derek McKnight had completed an 11-yard run, followed by Swartzcntruber’s successful kick for a 43-0 intermission score.

Beginning the 2nd half, Mike Ritchie intercepted another pass, and 3 plays later on a pass from quarterback McKnight.  Bucky Deaton took the ball in from 8 yards out, and the two-point conversion by Rex Turner upped the score to 51-0.

Breathitt’s last two points came when Mark Barnes sacked Clay’s quarterback in their end zone.

Observing his team’s 6-1 record, Hilton said, “We worked hard to get where we are.  It hasn’t come easy.  It (playing good ball) is something we work on year-round, trying to get ourselves ready for the following season.  Right now, we are doing that more than any other school, and that is one reason for the lop-sided scores.”

The one-sided scores do not mean Breathitt has belter athletes added Hilton.  “It just means we work harder,” he said.  “We sacrifice a lot.”

The Clay County game, he stressed, was not necessarily won Friday night.  “We won this game last winter or winter before last when we were working and lifting weights.”

Tiger Coach Eugene Hensley said he had never met backs as quick as the agile Bobcats.

Very alert on offense, Mike Ritchie carried the ball 10 times for 108 yards.  Jeff Gabbard carried it 14 times for 93 yards and 1 PAT.  For Rex Turner, it was 65 yards on 8 carries, and 30 on 4 for Derek McKnight.  Jim Stacy gained 26 yards on 7 carries.

Robert Swartzentrubcr was successful on 3 of 4 kicks.

In passing, Rhett McKnight completed 7 of 10 passes.  Bucky Deaton was on the receiving end and gained 79 yards on 4 passes.  Other receivers were Steve Collins, who gained 11 yards on one pass, and Derek acquired 15 on 1.

On 61 plays, the team ran 467 yards for an average of 71/2 per play. 

Leading the defense was Mike Ritchie with 6 tackles.  2 assists, and 2 interceptions.  Scott Noble was 6 and 1; Kevin Collins 3 and 2, with 1 fumble recovery, and a 7-yard TD; Robert Childers 3 tackles; Robert Swartzentruber.  3 and 2.

Mike Ritchie was featured in the Lexington Leader’s Honor Roll on Monday of this week.  Concerning him, the article read: “Ritchie,  5-11, 168 senior halfback linebacker did a yeoman’s job in Breathitt’s 53-7 win over Clay County.  Offensively, Ritchie picked up 108 yards on 10 carries and scored on a 40-yard run.  Defensively, he came up with six solo tackles and two interceptions- one he returned 44 yards for a TD.”

The Jackson Times, October 9, 1980, page 6

In the days before Name, Image, and Likeness, the Breathitt High School football team posed in October 1980 for a few publicity shots for the Royal Crown Bottling Company of Jackson. The intention was to use the photos in upcoming newspaper ads and in other media outlets. The only payment they received was some cold RC Cola and a few memories.

Whitesburg bringing strong team here

Whitesburg is bringing a winning team to Breathitt on Friday night.  They are 5-1, having lost only to Pikeville, the 5th-ranked team in the state.  Wins include Fleming Neon, Elkhorn City, Jenkins, John’s Creek, and M.C. Napier.

“We are strong defensively,” said assistant coach Douglass Chandler.  “We have been giving up an average of about 10 points per game.”

They have some big men on the line- like one 6-footer weighing in at 220.   Then there’s Ricky Smith, 5-9, 170-pound junior guard.

Randy Slone will be at center, and the Yellow Jackets place a lot of confidence in him.  We have a fairly strong backfield too,” added Chandler.

David Holbrook has been averaging 100 yards per game.

Another big man on the line will be Robin Roberts.  He’s 6-7 and weighs 240.  Morgan Blair is another one of their strong players.  He scored 3 touchdowns in Whitesburg’s 31-16 victory over Fleming-Neon last Friday night.

David Boggs and Mike Baker are starting seniors, and this is not to be taken lightly.

With a total of 9 seniors on their team, the Yellow Jackets utilize the abilities of several sophomores and juniors.  According to Chandler, there’s nothing fancy about his team.  They don’t run any unusual plays, he said.  “We mostly just lake the ball straight up the field.”

“We’re looking forward to coming down for the game Friday night,” He continued.  “We’re not saying we’ll win; we’ll just be there playing the best we can.”

He said he realized Breathitt had a strong team and, in his opinion, it should be ranked among the top five in the state in Class AAA.

The Jackson Times, October 10, 1980, page 6

Whitesburg – October 10, 1980 – Win 29 – 6

Bobcats win over Whitesburg

Whitesburg and Breathitt both scored in the first quarter of their game Friday night and for a while, it looked as if it might be a nip-’n-tuck ball game.  However, after the Yellow Jackets’ TD, they appeared to lose their drive.  They were never able to score again, and the game ended 29-6, another victory for the Breathitt squad.  The win upped their record to 7-1.

There were two early developments in the game that had positive results for the Breathitt squad, according to Coach Dudley Hilton.  “The fact that we were able to out-punt them in the first two series was a big factor in the game,” he said.

Then quarterback McKnight’s 30-yard pass to Jeff Gabbard, who was wide open on the left side, seemed to set the tempo of the game.

Breathitt started their first touchdown drive from their own 30.  Through 6 plays, they had the ball on the Cats 45 but lost some yards when the quarterback was sacked.  At that point, McKnight completed his long pass to Gabbard, who took the ball to Whitesburg’s 23. Three plays later, from 8 yards out, Mike Ritchie scored the first touchdown, and Robert Swartzentruber’s successful kick gave the host team a 7-0 lead.

Whitesburg took over on their 35 and never gave up until they moved the ball across the goal line.  Gibson carried it across from 12 yards out, and that was all Whitesburg was to do in the game.  In their drive, they completed a 20-yard pass, a major step in their effort to score.

Everything seemed to fall in place for the home team.  They soundly outplayed Whitesburg in every aspect of the game. 

Through the kicking of Swartzentruber and punting of Mark Collins, the Yellow Jackets were kept in deep field all night.  They had a long way to go almost every time they started a drive.

Mark Collins, for example, had one 40-yard punt and another 50.

Robert was successful on 2 of 3 kicks, plus he kicked one 23-yard field goal.

One highlight of the game was Rhett McKnight’s 56-yard run for the Cats’ 2nd touchdown with 2:54 left in the first half.  Swartzentruber’s kick was good and, making the score 17-6.

From one yard out, Jeff Gabbard scored Breathitt’s next six points.  It followed a long drive that started back on their 44th.  There were good carries by Ritchie, Deaton, Rex Turner, and Gabbard as they moved the ball down in spite of Whitesburg’s defense.

On the following drive, Whitesburg missed its golden opportunity to score.

Through 8 plays (4 first downs), the Jackets moved the ball to Breathitt’s 5-yard line.

There, they fumbled, and Russ Hale recovered.

Rex Turner scored the Cats’ last touchdown on a 36-yard pass from McKnight.

During the game, Turner carried the ball 22 times for 120 yards.  Mike Ritchie gained 40 yards on 8 carries while R. McKnight gained 48 on 4.  Gabbard covered 20 yards on 4 carries.

In passing, Rhett McKnight completed 7 of 10 passes for 121 yards.

On the receiving end were Steve Collins, who caught 3 for 44 yards; Bucky Deaton, 1 for 13; Rex Turner, 1 for 34; and Jeff Gabbard, 1 for 20.

Leading the defense was Robert Childers with 7 tackles and one assist.  Derek McKnight had 6 and 1; Kevin Collins 5 and 4; Scott Noble 4 and 1 and 1 fumble recovery; Robert Swartzentruber 4 and 2 and 1 fumble recovery; Mike Ritchie 4 and 0, and Mark Collins 3 and 5.

Coach Hilton was complimentary of the good blocking evident in the Friday night game.  He pointed out that Wade Turner threw a good block for Rhett McKnight as he ran for his 56-yard TD.

The TD pass to Rex Turner was made possible by the good down-field blocking by Baker Burke and Wade Turner.

“Down-field blocking is an area we’re advancing in,” said Hilton as he evaluated the qualities of his team against Whitesburg.

The Jackson Times, October 26, 1980, page 14

M. C. Napier to meet Bobcats for homecoming game

Friday night is a special night for BHS football.  For one thing, it is homecoming.  Also, it is the last home game of the season for the 14 seniors on the squad.

For this special game, the Bobcats will be playing M.C. Napier, which has a 2-6 record.  According to their coach, Bill Dixon, his team is a young one with 17 freshmen, 7 sophomores, 6 juniors and 4 seniors.

Of those 4 seniors, one is a first-year player; three of them have 4 years of playing experience.

The Navajos are quarterbacked by Maurice Dixon, a junior.  “He’s not a big boy,’’ said his dad-coach, “but he gives the team good leadership.”

On average, this Perry County team has been gaining 140-160 yards per game on the ground and 70-90 in the air.  Garland Sizemore is their leading ground gainer.  He averages about 87 yards per game.

The Navajos beat Mullins 28-0 and Bell County 14-7.  “Bell County was our big game of the year,” said Coach Dixon.

The Jackson Times, October 26, 1980, page 14

M. C. Napier – October 17, 1980 – Win 62 – 0

Breathitt’s offense smashes M. C. Napier, 62-0

Coming on strong in the opening series of plays Friday night, the Bobcats rolled up 23 points in the First quarter and then moved on to a 62-0 victory over visiting M.C. Napier. It was the Cats’ second shutout of the season.

Part of Hilton’s football philosophy is to hit ’em hard early in the game. It has a psychological as well as a physical advantage he said, and it certainly paid off for him in the Napier contest.

Before two minutes of the game had ticked off, Breathitt had an 8-point lead. They got the first possession of the ball on their own 42nd. Four plays later Bucky Deaton scored on an eighteen-yard pass from Quarterback McKnight, and Jeff Gabbard ran the two-point conversion.

On Breathitt’s second possession, they moved the ball from their 47th to Napier’s one-yard line in four plays. From there Rex Turner scored the 2nd TD and Ritchie ran the PAT for a 16-0 score with 6:42 left in the first quarter.

Still driving hard, the Cats had their 3rd possession when Rex Turner scored on a 70-yard run and Swartzentruber kicked the extra point for a total of 23 all within the opening period.

“One reason we are beating these teams as much as we are because of how quick we are hitting people in the first quarter.” explained Hilton. “I think you can set the stage of the football game in the first few plays of the game.”

Looking at the season as a whole he said his squad had scored more points in the first quarters than it has given up all year. “We have scored 108 points in the first quarters,” he observed, “but we’ve given up only 101.”

Rhett McKnight threw for three touchdowns and his brother, Derek scored twice on runs as Breathitt picked up its 8th victory in nine games.

Early in the 2nd half Steve Collins scored on a 16-yard pass from McKnight and Swartzentruber’s successful kick upped the score to 37-0.

Before the 3rd period was over Derek McKnight scored on 3 and 24-yard runs.  In the last round Steve Thomas scored on a 40-yard run. and so did Mike Watts on a 70-yard interception return.

Napier blew two golden opportunities to score. In the 2nd quarter they moved the ball from their 45 to Breathitt’s one-yard line. From there they got two off-sides penalties plus a loss of 8 yards when the quarterback was sacked. From 19 yards out Dixon completed a pass to Hoskins but not enough for a 1st down.

In rushing Sizemore carried the ball 12 times for 48 yards. Hurt 5 for 17, and Spurlock 5 for 2.

For the Bobcats Rex Turner gained 116 yards on 8 carries: Mike Ritchie 88 on 6; Derek McKnight 55 on 6; and Jeff Gabbard 35 on 7.

Robert Swartzentruber was 4 for 4 on his kicking.

Rhett McKnight completed 4 of 7 passes for 96 yards. On the receiving end Bucky Deaton caught 3 for 80 yards scoring 2 TDs of 18 and 45 yards. Steve Collins caught the other pass for a 16 yard TD.

Defensively there were 4 interceptions.  One each was made by Mike Ritchie. Mark Collins, Tim Caines, and Mike Watts.

Leading tacklers were Mike Ritchie with 8; Scott Noble 6; Mark Collins 6; Robert Childers 5, and 2 assists; Kevin Collins 5 and 4 assists; and Mike Watts 4 tackles.

Several freshmen dressed with the varsity for the first time. They included Tim Caines, David Niece, Jr. Campbell, Roger Stamper, David Warren, Craig Hamilton, Charlie Napier, and Scott Frasure, and they all saw some action.  In fact, 52 players dressed for the game, and they all got to play. It was the largest number of players to ever dressed for a B.H.S game according to coach Hilton.

The Jackson Times, October 23, 1980, page 16

Bobcat steamed up for Engineers

Friday night, the Bobcats will be playing next to their last season game as they engage Estill County at Irvine.

The Engineers have a 4-4 record.

According to their coach, Hoover Darrel Niece, they are basically a young team.  “My quarterback, Chris Winkler, is a sophomore,” he explained this week.  “So are my ends,” he added.  His linebackers are young, also.

“This is basically a rebuilding year for us.” explained coach Niece.  He said his young team had the most potential of any he has coached since being at Estill County High.

The Engineers run the ball a lot, he explained.  Basically, his team plays straight ball, nothing new or fancy.

Phil Hardy, a 5-10, 165-pound senior, plays defense in the secondary.  “He’s an outstanding player.” according to Niece.  In the Knox Central game, he intercepted a crucial pass for a total of 15 in his career–a school record.

Another Hardy boy on the team is Rick.  Although he’s a senior, he’s played only two years.  He’s come a long way and not be taken lightly, said his coach.

The Engineers lost one of their talented seniors early in this season.  John Abney, 5-11, 190-pound senior, played fullback – linebacker.  He was all-state last year. 

The Engineers have defeated Knox Central, Mercer County, Casey County, and Rockcastle County this season.

Coach Hilton and the Bobcats are looking for a good following Friday night.  The Times joins them in urging fans to support our team.  The Cats are playing wonderful ball.  In a few short years, they have reversed their win-loss record.  In the early years of B.H.S. football, our teams were beaten by scores similar to the way our present team is winning.  How good it is to be on the winning side!

Let’s get out these last two games and show our team that we’re proud of their ability and that we support them in their winning record.

The Bobcats will need all the support they can get Friday night based on their past record playing Estill.  Three years ago, they barely beat the Engineers by 1.  Two years ago, they finally won in the 3rd overtime.  Last year, they pulled the game out in the last few minutes of play.  Furthermore, Estill is already in the playoffs this year.

Come on, fans, let’s get behind them.

The Jackson Times, October 23, 2023, page 16

Estill County – October 24, 1980 – Win 25 – 0

Bobcats shut out Estill Co. 25-0

The first half of play in the Estill County game Friday was almost like a broken record of the Napier game the previous week.  The Cats scored very early in both games, dominated the ball, and ran up a lopsided score by the end of the first half.  In the Estill County game, for instance, it was 19-0.

The Breathitt squad went ahead to win their 3rd shutout of the season 25-0.  Breathitt struck in the first quarter with 9:46 showing when Bucky Deaton scored on a 36-yard pass from McKnight.  The TD culminated on a 38-yard drive in 4 plays.

Breathitt struck again on Rex Turner’s 5-yard run with 2:17 left.  It started 32 yards back and took 7 plays to complete. 

After a 72-yard drive on 14 plays with 16 seconds left, Rhett threw a 20-yard pass to Steve Collins, who scored the Bobcats’ third touchdown.  Robert Swartzentruber’s kick was good, making the end-of-the-first-half score 19-0.

The game was dubbed the “Mud Bowl” because of the condition of the field.  Coach Hilton said the field was in the worst condition he had ever encountered.  Engineers’ coach Hoover Niece explained the field had been renovated 3 weeks earlier in preparation for the playoffs in which Estill is scheduled to participate.  The rain started coming down prior to and continued through much of the game, turning what had been a very pretty field into a mud hole.”

Derek McKnight scored his team’s last TD in the 4th quarter on a 12-yard pass from his quarterback brother Rhett.  Concerning Derek’s playing, Coach Hilton observed, “I was really pleased with Derek.  I think he’s coming along as a defensive end.  I think he’s going tube a real good end for us before it is over.” The coaches worked up a slightly different defense for the Estill contest.

“We had always been using a 6-2 formation,” explained Hilton, “but decided on a 5-3 formation for the Engineers.” He said he was well pleased with the three linebackers in the new

formation.  One of those was David Watkins.  The new formation gave him a chance to play, and Hilton said it looked like he took advantage of the situation.

The defense held Estill to a total of only 6 yards gained during the game and only 1 first down.

Breathitt, on the other hand, ran a total of 171 yards on offense and 10b rushing.  In spite of the condition of the field, Breathitt had a very successful night passing.  In fact, the team passed more that night than in any previous game this season.  Rhett completed 12 of 17 passes.

“It’s hard enough to pass a ball in the rain,” said Hilton, “much less to try to catch one.”

For that, he gave credit to the two good ends, Bucky Deaton and Steve Collins.  “We’re fortunate to have ends like that,” he added.

Leading his team in carries was Rex Turner with 24 for 98 yards and 1 TD.  Mike Ritchie ran 71 yards with 9 carries.  Jeff Gabbard ran the ball 6 times for 21 yards, and Derek McKnight 5 for 22.

Bucky Deaton received the ball 6 times for 88 yards; he scored one touchdown.  Steve Collins also scored a TD, and he caught the ball 5 times for 47 yards.  Derek McKnight was 1 for 5 and 1 TD.

Mark Collins punted 3 times for 37, 28, and 33 yards each.

Fumble recoveries were made by Kevin Collins, Mike Ritchie, and Steve Collins.  Kevin also made an interception.

Robert Childers and Derek led in tackles with 4 each.  Robert Swartzentruber, Kevin Collins, and David Watkins made 3 each, plus 1 assist each.

Coaches and players invite fans to Cawood Friday night to watch them wind up their 1980 football season.

The Jackson Times, October 30, 1980, page 10

Breathitt football program praised in Lex-Herald

Last week, Gene McLean, of the Lexington Herald Staff, wrote an article about Breathitt’s football program.  Most of that article, reprinted below, began with complimentary remarks about Hilton and his simple approach to football.  “Good things have come in the simple package at Breathitt County,” wrote McLean.  Continuing, he wrote, “In his first five years, Hilton has put together a 32-24 record.  Over the past 3 1/2 years and 35 regular-season games, Hilton and Breathitt have lost just six games.

This year, the simple approach is confusing opponents again.  So far, Breathitt is 7-1, with its only loss a 30-20 setback to Leslie County – which appears to have knocked Breathitt out of the playoffs.

“We are making progress,” said Hilton.  “We are trying to put in a little more every year.  But we still don’t have a good, established grade school program.  And until we do, we’ll have to stay with the simple things.”

It’s pretty simple to figure out why Breathitt County has been winning this year.  In the first eight games, the Bobcats have scored 286 points for an average of 35.8 points a game.

The reason the same old things keep working is that some of the same old guys are still on the offensive line.  Breathitt runs most of its plays to the strong side, and the strong side is Breathitt’s strongest suit.

“This is without a doubt the best offensive line we’ve had in the six years I’ve been here,” said Hilton.  “I’m really surprised that we have been this successful, but our offensive line has been largely responsible.  They know what to do.”

“Our offense has just been super,” said Hilton.

Defensively, Breathitt County has been hurting some this season.  The Bobcats have given up 101 points for an average of 12.6.  But a lot of their problems have been caused by the absence of senior linebacker Eddie Johnson, who was lost after the second game of the season with a broken foot.

With his team evolving into a better passing team, and now even able to kick field goals, will Hilton become more of a complex coach?

“Heck no,” says Hilton.  “We just line up and run right at you.  If you’re going to stop us, you’re going to have to sacrifice your bodies.  We just try to grind it out.”

“If you can stop us, fine, but if you can’t, I feel sorry for ya because we just do the simple things – over and over and over.”

The Jackson Times, October 30, 1980, page 10

Cawood – October 31, 1980 – Win 18 – 8

Cats end grid season 10-1 with win over Cawood

There they stood in a huddle in the middle of the football field with their heads bowed and helmets in their hands.  The last game of the 1980 season had been played, and the Breathitt Bobcats had just defeated Cawood for their 9th straight victory to end the season 10-1, a super impressive record.

For 14 seniors, it was their last football game.  The huddle?  It was an occasion for prayer of thanksgiving led by Coach Hilton for the victory of the evening, for the successful season, and one for the contributions of 14 fine graduating seniors.

“It is an awfully good bunch of seniors,” said their coach.  “You hate to see people of this quality step aside.”

Concerning the prayer, Hilton said it was customary to end the season with prayer, just as it was the standing custom to begin each game with a word of prayer in the locker room before going onto the field.

The Cats conquered Cawood 18-8, but not without a difficult battle.  Some people seemed to think it would be an easy contest, said Hilton.  “But, I knew when we went over there- it would be a hard-fought football game, and it was.”  He said he thought Cawood ranked right up with Johnson Central, Estill, Leslie, and maybe Whitesburg.

The first quarter was mostly a swap out.  At the end of regulation play, it was 0-0.

Early in the 2nd quarter, Breathitt capitalized on a fumble recovery, and with 8:35 left in the period, Bucky Deaton scored a 16-yard pass from quarterback McKnight for the first TD of the game.  The two-point conversion was good by Rex Turner, making the score 8-0.

Cawood came right back on their following possession and tied the game 8-8.

In the beginning of the 2nd half, Breathitt moved the ball from their own 40-yard line to Cawood’s 10.  What looked like a TD in the making was not, as the refs called a 15-yard penalty on the Cats- killing their momentum.

Going into the last period, Robert Swartzentruber successfully kicked a 22-yard field goal, giving the Cats a little breathing room, 11-8.

There was 3:52 left in the game as Rex Turner cushioned the margin even more when he scored the Cats’ second touchdown from 13 yards out.  At that point, he must surely have been the happiest guy on the field as he came jubilantly dancing down the field, waving his hands in the air, and, in effect, manifesting, “The victory is ours.” The PAT was good for the final 18-8 score.

Rex Turner carried the ball 26 times for 206 yards.  Jett Gabbard covered 47 yards on 11 carries, and Mike Ritchie carried the ball 5 times for 21.

Rhett McKnight completed 4 of 6 passes for 64 yards.

On the receiving end, Bucky Deaton latched onto 3 of them for 50 yards, and Rex Turner held onto 1 for 14.

In addition to Swartzentruber’s good field goal, he also scored 1 PAT.

Even though he was suffering with a bad back, Mark Collins had two good punts of 32 and 40 yards, respectively.  Concerning Mark’s illness, Hilton observed that it may have hurt the team some on defense, “However, he showed a lot of courage to get out and play.  It’s just typical,” he said, “of this football team’s courage to get out and play.  They did play when they were hurt.  They didn’t want to miss a game because of a little pain.”

With 10 tackles, 2 assists, and 1 interception, Kevin Collins led the team in defense.  His interception was extremely significant, as he intercepted a pass on Cawood’s 2-yard line.

Other leading tacklers were Tim Noble with 6 and 1 assist; Robert Swartzentruber, 5 and 4; Derek McKnight, 3 and 3; Russ Hale, 3 and 1; Mike Watts, 3 and 1; Robert Childers, 3 and 2.

The Bobcats’ defense is basically a young one.  “And that’s a good sign for the future,” observed Hilton.  Though the 80 team never made it to the playoffs, it enjoyed a really fine season, ending up with a 10-1 record.  It is the second-best record in the history of BHS football.  The 1978 team had an 11-0 record.  This year’s team has won 15 out of the last 16 games.  “And that’s some accomplishment.” according to their coach.

He explained that this year’s team is leaving the next team something to shoot for.  “We have a 9-game winning streak going,” he said.  Eleven is the most we’ve ever won, so that gives our boys something to work hard on this winter because we sure want to win our district next year.  If we can go 11-0, we’ll beat Leslie Co. next season.”

About all that’s left of football this fall is the banquet scheduled for November 13 at LBJ.  Coach Hilton says any fan is welcome to attend the occasion, at which time annual stats will be presented and outstanding contributions recognized.

The Jackson Times, November 6, 1980, page 19

Football Banquet

Football banquet biggest, best yet

By Jack Niece

Breathitt’s quality and ever-growing football program is the result of the efforts of many people.  So stressed the program participants at the football banquet last Thursday night at LBJ. 

“You just wouldn’t realize the people that play a part in our athletic program,” said Mr. Bill Toler.  BHS Principal.

“It is not the players nor the coaching staff that makes a program go,” added program speaker Pete Corroa. “It’s the whole community.”

More and more of that “whole community” is becoming involved as football grows in popularity locally.  Coach Hilton said in his 6 years at Breathitt High.  “This is the largest turnout we have ever had for a football banquet.” He said he felt that was partly due to the number of players getting involved in the sport.  He said this year, 43 boys dressed, not including approximately 25 freshmen.

He, too, emphasized the importance of community support for a successful program and acknowledged help from The Jackson Times, WJSN, WMTC, the Boosters Club, cheerleaders, parents, fans, and a host of individuals.  The BHS Band is to be commended for its excellent support of the football program.

As important as broad-base support is, that was not what brought all the people together.  They came to honor and recognize those who made the tackles, threw the blocks, ran the plays, caught the ball, opened the holes, punted, kicked, and scored, and snapped the ball.

They came to say, as was orated over and over, “We are proud of you, and we are well pleased with your 10-1 record.”

In reference to that record and other accomplishments in the short life of football at Breathitt, emcee Gabby Mullins vocalized very well the sentiments of those present when he said.  “It’s astronomical what these three gentlemen (Coaches Hilton, Stanford, and Gabbard) have done.”

The audience seconded the statement with a standing ovation for head coach Dudley Hilton after Mullins introduced him.

Hilton was not short of words as he talked about his team as a whole and individuals.

He pointed out that this year’s team set a record for the most points scored in one season.  That was 391.

In a lighter mood, he explained that when the season started, he was a little scared because he had too many nice guys.  “I was afraid we would hit somebody and then stop to pick them up,” he laughed.

In reference to the 14 seniors on the team, he added, “These are the finest young men I’ve ever worked with.”  He gave each of them their game jersey and assured them, “You can hand them down with pride some day.”

As he presented the jerseys, he told of the owner’s contribution to football during their high school career.  The graduating seniors were Bucky Deaton, Wade Turner, Rex Turner, Mark Collins, Mark Barnes, Rhett McKnight, Scott Noble, David King, Bobby Hensley, Robert (Southfork) Childers, Mike Ritchie, Steve Williams, Eddie Johnson, and Baker Burke.

Everything about the recognition banquet was first class.  Emcee Gabby Mullins did a good job keeping the program moving.  The room and tables were very attractive, and the food was good.  Special music was provided by the High School Girls’ Ensemble under the direction of Debbie DeHoag.

Guest speaker Pete Corroa, an assistant to Roy Kidd at Eastern and in charge of wide receivers and tight end, challenged the Bobcats to high moral living and concern for others.  “Be thinking about what you can do for somebody else, not what they can do for you,” he admonished.

Theresa Blanton, the cheerleader sponsor, introduced the cheerleaders whom she described as “hard-working girls.  They have never disappointed me,” she added.  “They are all pretty, and they’re smart.”  Other program participants made mention of the fine contribution of the cheerleaders Debbie Litteral, Peggy Tolson, Deena Johnson, Penny McCoun, Sabrina Oaks, Lisa McClees, Kim Little, Wonda Ritchie, and Peggy Turner.

Debbie Litteral, Peggy Tolson, Deena, and Penny are all seniors.

In his opening remarks, Superintendent Eugene Sebastian expressed pleasure in the accomplishments of this year’s team and told how impressed he was to see members of the team lead in public prayer prior to game time.  He said he felt that Coach Hilton’s example had fostered this type of growth.

Expressing pleasure in the large crowd present, Mr. Sebastian added, “We’ll be going into basketball in 10-12 days, and I hope you can get behind that program because I think this just might be the year we can make a nice showing in basketball.”

The freshmen ended their season with a 5-5 record.  “They have come a long way, and I’m proud of their accomplishments,” said their coach Johnny Gabbard as he introduced the team that consisted of Scott Frasure, Alan Kipp, Randy Watts, Anthony Smith, Reuben Turner, Earl Napier, Billy Herald, Steve Chapman, Roger Stamper, Tim Caines, Greg Toler, David Niece, Scott McCoun, Jr. Campbell, Talbert Turner, Darrell Back, Mike Herald, David Warren, Craig Hamilton, Ricky Brewer, Doug Minix, Raymond Hardin, and Charles Napier.

New football building going up

The long-waited-for new football facility is about to become a reality.  It is on its way up.

The Boosters Club, the Board of Education, and interested citizens have been working for several months trying to get the new addition started.

“It is going to help our football program a lot,” said Al Collins, Boosters Club president.  “It has been needed for a long time.”

The new addition is being built adjacent to the present football stadium.  It will serve as the dressing room for the Bobcats and house their workout equipment.

According to Collins, the new structure is 36 x 48.  The floor has been poured, and some construction material has been delivered.  It took 40 yards of concrete to pour the floor, which is on top of 60 tons of gravel.

Much of the labor will be donated, said Collins.  He said some people have already put in several hours of work building the foundation frame, spreading gravel, pouring, and finishing the concrete.  Donated labor has come from Jeff Gabbard.  Tim Noble and his dad.  Mike Watts and his dad.  Steve and Ray Collins and their dad, Bill Burke, and Danny Haddix.

The Boosters Club expects to be actively involved in the construction of the building in the ensuing months.  As the members work for the completion of this program in general. Collins said the Club will need all the help it can get.  Anybody willing or desiring to help either in donated time or cash contribution, should contact Collins or any other Booster Club member.

And speaking of members, the Club president said parents of any football player are given a very special invitation to membership.  The Club will hold its annual meeting Thursday night following the athletic banquet at LBJ.  At that time, officers will be elected, and memberships will be renewed.  All parents and football friends are invited to stay for the meeting.

The Jackson Times, November 11, 1980, page 4

Football Appreciation Day

MSU quarterback speaks at Christian Church

There was a lot of hubbub, a lot of fellowshipping, good food, and warm spirit in the basement of the Jackson Christian Church Sunday afternoon. The occasion was the Church’s annual football appreciation day.

Referring to Breathitt’s impressive 10-1 record, guest speaker Donnie Reeves, Morehead quarterback, said, “You have more to be thankful for than we (Morehead) do.”

Only a sophomore (and even younger looking in appearance) Reeves held his audience almost spellbound as he related some of his football experiences and shared his Christian point of view.

He spoke like a professional- without the use of a single note. Furthermore, he appeared completely at ease doing it.

He drew an analogy between football “and everyday life. The offensive team he said represented one’s efforts to set goals and real objectives.

The defense typifies those evil things in life that beset one in pursuit of good goals.

“I like to think of God as the head coach,” said Reeves. “He can help you call the plays, but you have to run them.”

Just as a team does not win all of its games, a person never wins all the games of life. “When you lose you have to fight back,” explained the young quarterback.

To help him fight back Reeves said he had the benefits of Christian friends, Christian family. Christian coaches, and FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes).

Breaking with the tradition of giving football players individual gifts, the Christian Church this year decided to make a $200.00 donation toward the construction of the new dressing room presently being built.

Accepting the $200.00 donation, coach Hilton expressed appreciation for it on behalf of all who will benefit from it. 

To show the Church’s appreciation of the Hiltons. Rev. Hancock presented Dudley with a family Bible and Jan with an engraved bracelet.

Coach Hilton Introduced the cheerleaders and football players present. He said approximately half of them were in attendance. Many of them were accompanied by parents and other family members.

Also in attendance was Steve Loney, Morehead’s new football coach.  He Introduced his quarterback and guest speaker Reeves.

The even ended much like it started.  There was a lot of socializing- a lot of greetings. Several of the players lingered to talk with the Morehead guests.  Everybody seemed to leave with the feeling that one guest was overheard to say, “It was good to have been here.”

The Jackson Times, December 11, 1980, page 1

Dudley Hilton and the Breathitt High School Bobcats had proven again that hard work and teamwork were required to win in high school sports. The team finished the year disappointed by one bad outing. “We were a better team than we showed,” a 1979-1980 team member said, looking back years later. “We were so close to doing something great, and we let one bad night, really one or two bad plays against Leslie, kill it all. We were the best team around.”

Despite the disappointment felt by the players, 1980 proved to be a year of firsts in many regards. The Bobcat had their first made-field goal by Robert Swartzentruber. They celebrated their first return of a punt for a touchdown when Bucky Deaton ran back a fifty-yard return against Morgan. Breathitt County Schools got their first Athletic Director. The Boosters Club also started a long-running tradition of giving away a game ball by numbering the programs they sold.

They graduated many talented players and years of experience in May 1981. Many supporters believed that 1981 would be a tough rebuilding year, but others believed in the team and Coach Hilton. Hilton simply told The Jackson Times, “We will play with what we have and win if they are willing to work hard enough.”

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© 2023 Stephen D. Bowling