By Stephen D. Bowling

We continue an extended look at the games and events of the seasons of Breathitt Football. This week, we explore 1983 and a new head coach.

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The 1982 Bobcats moved into the new locker and weight room and took full advantage of the opportunities it offered to grow and improve. The members of the football team went to work in the weight room on Monday after the season-ending loss to Russell. They worked through November and December and The Jackson Times noticed their drive and hard work in January.

Football boys already conditioning for 1983

The football season may be over, but the work is not.  There are two-hour workouts every afternoon – Monday through Friday, a vital part of the program, thinks Hilton.  He is a great believer in the philosophy that games are not won on the field on the nights they are played.  Games are won during preparation time, like right now.

That “preparation time” includes various exercises and a great deal of time spent in the workout room.  Right now, the team is doing different kinds of stretches which help prevent injuries during a game by keeping the body limber.  The boys are also working on quickness drills to develop sharpness.  Three days weekly, the sophomores and juniors work on free weights.  The freshmen concentrate on the universal machine designed to build up muscles before joining free weights.

It is generally conceded that the Bobcats have one of the finest equipped workout rooms in the state of Kentucky.  Coach Hilton says it is not uncommon for other coaches to come and observe his weight-lifting program.  (Two were present, for example, the day I was there taking the accompanying pictures.) “We are second to none,” said Hilton. “We’ll put our program up against any in Kentucky.”

Hilton said that presently, he and the other coaches are working with 44 boys in the winter workout program.  The program has helped develop some really strong kids.  Take Ricky Brewer, for instance.  He can bench press 340 lbs., deadlift 520, and squat 510.

Records are kept in the squat, bench press, and deadlift categories to see how boys are progressing.  Records are kept according to a player’s weight and are posted not only in the weight-lifting room but in other places in the school.

The fine weight-lifting equipment has been provided through donations to the football program.  The building itself was a project of the Boosters Club.

Other “super men” include David Warren and Darrell Back, who can both bench press 270 and squat 400 each, and deadlift 460.

“Ricky, David, and Darrell are big boys,” said Hilton, “and are expected to lift more than smaller ones.  However, some of our smaller boys are impressive.”

One is Billy Herald, who only weighs 140, but he can bench press 210, deadlift 360, and squat 320.  Strong for their size are Tim Caines and Dallas Warren.  Both can bench press 180, dead lift 350, and squat 300.

The Jackson Times, January 6, 1983, page 9

The Bobcats took full advantage of the weightlifting league that grew up in the mountain and competed in every local competition. In March 1983, the Bobcat competed in the state powerlifting competition and claimed 7th place out of the 25 teams who competed.

BHS has best in state lifting contest

Ricky Brewer received some state recognition for himself and Breathitt High’s weight-lifting team last weekend at the 5th Annual Kentucky State High School Powerlifting Contest.  He scored first place in the contest by lifting a total of 930 pounds.  That included 560 pounds on the dead lift and he bench pressed 360. Not only was he the overall winner, he was also best of the bunch in the bench press category.

And there was quiet a bunch present for the contest- 270 to be exact. They were there from all parts of the state. “Every part was represented,” said coach Hilton.

Breathitt had eight in the contest.  They were all football players including David Warren, Scott Frasure, David Niece, Ricky Brewer, Darrel Back, Billy Herald, Dallas Warren, and Tim Caines.

Individual winners as well as team winners were identified. Breathitt’s team came in 7th out of more than 25 competition teams.  Many of these were from Louisville and other cities characterized by large schools.

Billy Herald won 4th place in the state Powerlifting Contest.  He bench pressed 225 and was 415 on the dead lift.

“All our kids made a good showing. We did not get embarrassed.” said Hilton.  “We performed well.”

Obviously delighted with the realization that the strongest boy in the state is on his football team, Hilton said he was planning to have representation in other weight-lifting meets.

Jerry Reves, who won the state contest last year and who is planning to play for UK, was surprised (to say the least) that he was knocked from the saddle this year by Ricky Brewer. Reportedly, it came as quiet a blow to him.

The Jackson Times, March 31, 1983, page 8

Interest in football and other sports grew in Breathitt County as was the original intent of the School Advisory Committee. Local stores (including Maloney’s and Ben Franklin) attempted to supply local requests for sports supplies, but K-Mart in Winchester and Lowe’s Sporting Goods in London were the only real options for football-specific items.

In April 1983, Charles “Buddy” and Katrina Price opened All American Sports & Trophies in the Jett’s Shopping Center to try to meet local needs for equipment. The Prices described the store as “a dream come” and “a long-time goal” that was more than 10 years in the making.

Board Controversy

At the April 18, 1983 meeting of the Breathitt County Board of Education, passions were running high. Rumors in the community circulated that Coach Dudley Hilton had “a very nice offer to leave” and that the Board of Education was not doing “enough to try to keep him.” Members of the Board of Education insisted that they were doing everything they could to compete with any offer the coach received. One member of the Board suggested that the Breathitt County Football Boosters could do more to support the team and especially the coach. He made a vague statement about a lack of support from the Boosters but cited no specific action that the Booster should have or did not take.

In the days and weeks that followed, public opinion grew in support of the Breathitt County Football Boosters. Members of the public took great offense at the comments. While the controversy grew, Hilton announced his resignation on May 5, 1983.

A large crowd attended the May 16, 1983 meeting to show their support for the Boosters and to discuss the open coach’s position. Several Boosters presented information about their activities and refuted the claim that there was a “lack of support” from them. Under pressure, the Board voted to strike the statements from the Board Minutes of the April 18 meeting and issue an official apology. The Jackson Times printed the Board’s statement in the paper the week following the May 16 meeting.

The apology worked, and the Breathitt County Football Boosters went back to work raising money to support the team and the players. The Boosters planned a big event that they hoped would generate lots of funding for the 1983 season. They announced a circus was coming to town during the first week of July.

The circus is coming!

It has been reported that the Jules and Beck Circus will be appearing in Jackson, Ky. on July 2, 1983, for two shows, 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. (1 1/2 hours each).  The Circus will be at S & S Service Parking Lot on Highway 15 and sponsored by the Breathitt County Football Boosters Club.

Jules and Beek is an old time) big top circus with Myrtle the elephant, an old time wild west show, trained bears, educated canines, hilarious clowns, jugglers, and trapeze artist- plus many other acts too numerous to mention, rounding out a fun-filled ninety minutes of family entertainment.  Advance tickets will be available at WEKG-WJSN Radio Station, Ada’s Flowers, S. & S. Service, or from any Boosters Club member.

Advanced ticket prices are Adults $3.00 and children $2.00.  Tickets at the gate will be Adults $4.00 and children $3.00. 

Proceeds will go to the Football Booster Club to help pay for the weight room.

The Jackson Times, June 23, 1982, page 4

Hilton Farewell

The Jackson Times announced Coach Dudley Hilton’s resignation on May 15, 1983. While Principal Bill Toler and the Breathitt County Board of Education worked to settle on a new coach, the Hiltons prepared to leave Jackson for Bell County. Friends of the Hiltons on Picnic Hill planned a farewell dinner, and they gathered to say goodbye to the coach.

As the Hiltons prepared to leave, football continued at Breathitt with Assistant Coach Mike Holcomb in charge until a permanent coach was hired. Holcomb was the front runner, and one source said, “We never considered anyone else. Mike was our man from the get-go.” Slowly, the hiring process crept along, but the assistant coaches made sure that Breathitt High School football never missed a beat.

Summer Youth Camp

21 grade school boys attend football camp

Twenty-one boys in grades 5-9 got an introduction to Breathitt High-type football last week at the local football camp, according to coach Mike Holcomb.  He said the purpose was “to introduce incoming freshmen to the type of plays we run and to help the younger kids get an understanding of the fundamentals of the game that will help them with their grade school and B.Y.F. teams.”

He said he felt the boys increased their understanding of the game and developed skills that will be helpful in their immediate and long-range playing.  They put in three hours of hard practice daily, Monday-Friday last week.

Holcomb said he had considerable assistance during the week from present and former B.H.S. football players.  For the most part, the football players gave assistance to boys who later may be playing their position.  Holcomb said he appreciated help from John Paul Chapman (a former player), Tim Caines, David Niece, Ricky Brewer, David Warren, Steve Caudill, and other team members.

Did the young boys accomplish enough to justify the efforts?  “There is no doubt about it,” said Holcomb.  “The camp has been a great success and well worth the effort.”

He said the real test would come in how well the boys use their knowledge acquired in their local school football program this fall.  Holcomb said he would really like to see the boys get excited about their grade school program and work hard for their coaches.

In addition to field practice, the boys got an introduction to the weight-lifting room. They worked out on the universal machine and got to flex their muscles at the bench press, squat, and deadlift.

Though Coach Peterson is carrying a heavy graduate-study load at Morehead, he took off one day during the camp to come over to observe the boys and to get to know them better.

The Jackson Times, June 23, 1983, page 12

The New Coach

Mike Holcomb to be BHS football coach

According to Superintendent Eugene Sebastian, Mike Holcomb has been assigned to the head football position at Breathitt High.  He fills the position that was vacated by Coach Dudley Hilton, who recently accepted the head football position at Bell County High. According to Supt. Sebastian, Holcomb will be assisted by coaches Gene Peterson and Johnny Gabbard.

Beginning his third year at Breathitt High, Holcomb served two years as assistant to Hilton. Before coming to Breathitt, he had four years of assistantship at Madison High under Coach Ed Miracle.  “I’ve had the experience of working under two fine coaches and have learned much from them,” explained Holcomb as he talked this week about his new assignment.

He said at this point, he was basically interested in continuing the tradition that has been developed in the BHS football program.  “We will continue to stress hard work, discipline, fundamentals, and conditioning, which are the base of any strong program,” he added.

Looking on down the road at this fall’s action.  Holcomb stressed that the team is faced with one of the toughest schedules in the history of the school.  The opening game will be in the Campbell-Grid Classic with Boyd County, a 4-A team from the Ashland area new on the BHS schedule.

The other teams on the schedule are traditional matches, though the schools are expected to field very strong teams this upcoming season, according to Holcomb.

Cognizant of the strong community support for the local football program, Holcomb said he certainly hoped that would continue.  “Not only do I hope support for the program continues, he added.  “I hope people will feel a part of it.”

He said he was also anxious that the grade schools and BYF coaches continue their good work.  “Their work is the foundation of our high school program,” he continued.  “It is impossible to have a good high-school program without the foundation work that goes on in the feeder programs.”

If anything makes coaching easier, it is community support, help from fellow coaches, and a team with the right attitude, said the new head coach.  In reference to the team, he said, “They are fine boys.  They make coaching a pleasure.” He added that he was looking forward to the continued fine help of Gene Peterson, Johnny Gabbard, and volunteer John Paul Chapman.

A graduate of Eastern and a native of Nelson County.  Holcomb is accepting head coach responsibilities, but at the same time, he’s taking on responsibilities of a different nature. He’s a married man now, having exchanged wedding vows with the former Debbie Hay a couple of weeks ago.

The Jackson Times, June 30, 1983, page 16

Practice

Football Bobcats already in rigorous training

By Hager Rice

In these hot, sweltering days of July, the farthest thing from most people’s minds is football.  However, it’s the number one priority right now as far as the Breathitt County football program is concerned.

Preparation for the upcoming season has been going on for nearly three weeks now, and things seem to be running smoothly for new head coach Mike Holcomb’s Bobcats.

During their three-week conditioning program, which started the last week of June, each member of the team is expected to go through a total of eight workouts.  This conditioning consists of various types of weightlifting, jumping rope, pushups, setups, agility drills, and running.

According to Coach Holcomb, the boys are showing a great deal of enthusiasm and determination in preserving those rigorous workouts.  Their persistence should sharpen their skills and pay great dividends for the grueling season coming.  “Our older boys realized the importance of our conditioning and came into the sessions in good condition,” said Holcomb.  “Some of our younger players are having to learn the hard way, however.” These sessions are conducted from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“Conditioning is the basis for good performance in any sport and is necessary to improve an individual’s strength, agility, and endurance,” added Holcomb.  “Our boys are doing an outstanding job so far.”

Rickey Brewer, David Warren, and Daryl Back are the strongest on Breathitt’s club overall.  Tim Caines, Dallas Warren, and Billy Herald are the strongest pound for pound.

Organized practices are slated to get underway next week.  Then, on July 20, they will suit up for full contact practice.  This should prove to be a very crucial part of the team’s preparation, with positions being nailed down and offensive and defensive schemes being learned to near perfection.

The team will then make its annual trip to football camp the first week in August.  This is the most exhausting but perhaps the most rewarding period of pre-season preparation.  The camp will be held at Levi Jackson State Park near London.  This should bring the team together spiritually and boost their enthusiasm.  When they return, they should be in top-notch condition and ready for the tough competition they’ll face during the season.

The Bobcats open up against Newport in the Campbell County Grid Classic on August 20.  This will be the second game of a doubleheader, with the first game pairing Beechwood against strong AA contender Newport Catholic, which recently dropped from AAA status.  These should prove to be two very good games featuring a lot of talent.

Breathitt has been allotted 1,500 tickets to this doubleheader.  The ticket proceeds will be used for the Breathitt football program.  Tickets are available through Breathitt High School, the Football Boosters Club, or the 100 Club.  So, purchase some tickets and attend the Classic, you’ll not only enjoy some fine high school football action, but you’ll also be contributing to the football program at Breathitt.  So, buy some tickets and support our Bobcats.  They deserve your support!

The Jackson Times, July 14, 1983, page 14

The BHS Football 100 Club continued its work and took a cue from the Boosters during the Board Controversy in May. The 100 Club reported that it raised $6,810 and spent a total of $6,575.87 to support football activities during the 1982-1983 year by purchasing weights, training equipment, football camp, uniforms, and other items.

Football Camp

Football team at 4-H camp 

Breathitt High Football Team is in football camp this week at the 4-H Camp at London.

Before going to camp the team had already had two weeks of practice, and after the boys return they’ll have two more weeks of practice before their first game August 20.

Approximately 45 of the team members are in attendance at the camp, the 6th annual camp the BHS team has attended.

The camp provides opportunities for the coaches to do some intensive training with the team immediately prior to the opening game. Helping the boys sharpen their fundamentals this week are coaches Mike Holcomb, Gene Peterson, Johnny Gabbard, and John Paul Chapman.

The Jackson Times, August 4, 1983, page 8

Good crowd for football parents’ night

Monday afternoon was a big event for the football players and their families.  It was the annual football parents’ night, a night complete with fellowship, football talk, and food.

“I was delighted that so many parents could come out,” said coach Holcomb.  “It just shows the kind of support our boys have from their parents,” he continued.

The meal, a picnic in nature, was provided by the school and parents.  Many parents brought side dishes, but the main meal was provided by Breathitt High.  Grilled on the spot, the hamburgers and hotdogs not only made a hit with the hungry football boys straight off the practice field, but they seemed to please the taste buds of adults also.

Coach Holcomb pointed out that almost every boy was represented by at least one parent or other family member, making the evening attendance approximately 175.

Parents’ night is one of the rare opportunities during the year when football families can socialize informally, get to know the players and coaches better, and become better acquainted with the fine football facilities.

Coach Holcomb said he was especially pleased to see the parents of so many of the freshmen players out for the event.

He probably expressed the sentiments of nearly everyone when he added, “I’m just glad we could get together for a fun evening like this.”

The Jackson Times, August 11, 1983, page 12

The 1983 Season

Bobcats open football season Saturday night

For the football lover, Saturday night has been slowly arriving.  After all, it has been a long time since fans have seen their local team in action.  That long wait is over now.  The football season opens Saturday night in Newport at 8:15 p.m.

Going into his first game as Breathitt High’s head football coach is an exciting experience for coach Mike Holcomb, he said earlier this week.  “We’re ready, though,” he said as he talked about the team.  “Every individual is ready for the game,” he continued. “That includes every player and the coaches.”

He added that Breathitt High will field a team that the fans will be proud of.

According to Holcomb, the boys have worked hard this long, hot summer in preparation for the beginning season.  Conditioning started a month and a half ago, and the team has been in field practice for approximately a month.

The season opener with Newport promises to be one of the finest season games.  Newport has a strong football program, rich in tradition.  Theirs is an AAA team, and the Saturday night game is the Bobcats’ first with them.

“We’re all looking forward to the challenge,” Holcomb said.  “We want to represent the county well as we have lots of home folk living up there.  Also, we’re expecting a good home following.”

What kind of action can the fans expect to see on Saturday night?  On the offensive team, look for senior Reuben Turner as a tight end, a position new for him as a starter.

Holcomb said he had several positions vacated by graduating seniors that will be filled by previous nonstarters. 

David Warren, one of the few returning veterans, will be at right tackle, a position he held the previous two seasons.

Look for Darrell Back at right guard, a position he holds with one year’s experience.

At center will be senior David Niece, a first-year starter in that position.  “He has adapted well to that role,” Holcomb said.

Seniors Gregg Toler and junior Curtis Watts, both new starters, will be at left guard.

Commonly called “The Bull,” Ricky Brewer will be at left tackle, his second year as a starter in that position.  Split end will be held down by sophomore Jeff Trent.

The backfield will be made up of senior veterans Roger Stamper and Billy Herald and newcomers junior Dallas WarTen and senior Tim Caines.

The team will be quarterbacked by Scott Frasure, a senior and first-year starter.  Other offensive action boys are Randy Couch, John Cable, Albert Howard, Steve Hollon, John Adkins, Scott Barnett, Meredith Howard, Chris Swetnam, Eddie Strong, and Paul Turner.

When the defensive team takes the field, Reuben Turner and Banger Howard will be on the line, both new to that position.  Along with them will be returnees David Warren, Ricky Brewer, and Darrell Back.  Another new lineman will be John Adkins.

Linebacker Steve Chapman has had experience, but he has had problems staying injury-free.  Other linebackers include newcomers Dallas Warren and Darrell Back.

In the secondary will be one familiar face, Tim Caines, who started quite often last year. His help will come from Roger Stamper and Billy Herald.

Also seeing defensive action will be David Niece, John Cable, Ronald Combs, Keith Couch, Meredith Howard, Eddie Strong, Dean Turner, Paul Turner, Gary Watkins, and Albert Howard.

Kicking chores will be performed by sophomore Jeff Trent with help from Billy Herald and Tim Caines.

The game on Saturday night is part of the Campbell County Grid Classic.

The coaches have worked hard getting the team ready for the game under the direction of head coach Mike Holcomb.  Coach Gene Peterson has primary responsibility for the secondary and backs.  Coach John Gabbard has been working with the line and freshmen, while coach John Paul Chapman has given attention to the receivers and defensive linemen.

“Our managers have been a great help,” chipped in Holcomb.  “We could hardly have made it without the help of Sigel Turner, Jimmy Dalton, Doug Jennings, and David Atkins.

Now that the season is here, people are probably wondering about tickets.  Season tickets are available for football family members and students for S10.00 per person.  For the general public, they are $12.50.  Season tickets can be bought from the high school office.

“We are looking forward to a fine season,” concluded Holcomb.  “Even though our first game is in Newport, we hope our fans will get behind the team from the very beginning by supporting us Saturday night in our season opener.”

All tickets bought locally for the Newport game will be $3.00.  At the gate, they will be 55.00.  Locally, tickets can be bought at Briar Patch, Old Country Inn, Druthers, All American Sports, Texaco, and Citizens Branch Bank.

The Jackson Times, August 18, 1983, page 18

Newport – August 20, 1983 – Win 27 – 19

Bobcats down Newport 27-19 in season opener

The Bobcats opened their football season Saturday night and erased any doubts about their ability to play city teams rich in football tradition.

The Cats stumped the Newport Wildcats 27-19 and inspired their fans’ confidence that they can field strong offensive and defensive teams.

“That win did a lot to build our team’s confidence,” Coach Mike Holcomb observed.  “And I hope it lets our fans know we have a team they can feel proud of and one they can expect a lot from.”

Breathitt went into the game as the underdog, but they came out like true champs.  They outplayed their host in almost every aspect of the game.

The Bobcats gained 208 yards on 29 carries and accumulated 125 yards in the air on 6 of 11 passes.

Newport’s quarterback was unable to complete a pass the entire game.  He was 0-11.  In the fourth quarter, he failed to hit his target on three successive efforts.

“I thought our quarterback (Scott Frazure) did a good job,” pointed out Holcomb.  The 190-pound senior quarterbacked his first varsity game.  Thanks to an efficient line, most of his passes were unrushed. 

Senior Billy Herald rushed for 103 yards on 11 carries.  Roger Stamper gained 70 on 13 carries, and Dallas Warren rushed 4 times for 27 yards.

David Warren led his team in tackles.  He made 12 unassisted and 3 assisted.  Ricky Brewer was 8 and 5.  Roger Stamper 7 and 6.  Steve Chapman 6 and 7.  Darrell Back 3 and 4.  John Adkins 3 and 4.  Banger Howard 3 and 1.  and Tim Caines 2 and 3.

Billy Herald had the honor of scoring BHS’s first ID in the ’83 season.  The game’s other three touchdowns were run in by Roger Stamper, who also had an interception.

The Bobcats opened the game with a kickoff to Newport taking over on their 29.  They got only two first downs and moved the ball 2b yards before Breathitt’s defense stopped them on Breathitt’s 45.

Apparently a bit nervous on their first ’83 possession, the Bobcats were penalized for illegal procedure and failed to pick up many yards.

Then the Wildcats got excellent position when they ran 45 yards on a return kickoff and would have scored had it not been for Roger Stamper’s excellent tackle on the five-yard line. Two plays later, Newport scored their first TD, and the extra point was good, giving them a 7-0 advantage with 3:36 left in the opening quarter.

Did that discourage the determined Bobcats?  Not the least.  Taking over on their 42-yard line, Frasure completed a pass to Stamper for a first down.  He turned around and threw another bomber straight in the hands of Billy Herald, who wiggled his way right through Newport’s line for a 46-yard TD run.  Jeff Trent’s extra point was good, and the game was tied at 7-7, leaving 3:15 in the first round.

Midway through the 2nd quarter, Frasure connected with Stamper, who ran for a 70-yard TD pass, putting the Bobcats in front 14-7 after a second successful kick by Trent.

Taking over on their 25 late in the 3rd quarter, the Wildcats played determinedly and moved the ball mostly by 4-6 yard runs right down the middle to within inches of scoring.  With 0:25 left in the 3rd quarter, they got the ball over, giving them a 19-14 lead after their attempted pass failed.

Following a 30-yard return, the Bobcats took over on Newport’s 41.  After Frasure’s successful pass to Reuben Turner, the ball was moved up to Newport’s 23-yard line.  After short runs by Herald and Stamper mostly up the middle, Stamper put the Bobcats ahead again on a three-yard run 20-19, leaving 9:42 in the game.

That appeared to be the breaking point of the Newport team.  They never had another first down and were unable to contain the Bobcats, who scored another TD and PAT with 24 seconds left in the game for the final 27-19 score.

Reviewing the game, Holcomb said he was pleased with the game and the attitude and determination with which the players approached their season opener and the first game ever with Newport.

He pointed out that he was encouraged by the punting of Jeff Trent, who punted four limes for an average of 30 yards per punt.

After the game, Holcomb said, “We need to keep getting better and improving in all phases of our game.”  He said this week that the team would be working on such aspects as stepping, blocking, kicking, and other fundamentals in preparation for the Johnson Central game Friday night at home.  It promises to be a good game.  It is a well-known fact that Johnson Central will be out to get Breathitt since the Bobcats have defeated Johnson Central in the past three seasons.  Last year, they downed them 15-12; the year before that, it was 10-8 and 6-0 three years ago.

Holcomb said he would like to encourage all the fans to come out Friday night and support the team in its first ’83 home game.

The Jackson Times, August 25, 1983, page 10

Johnson Central – August 26, 1983 – Win 7 – 0

Bobcats shut out Johnson Central

Only a minute and 23 seconds into the Breathitt-Johnson Central game Friday night, Bobcat quarterback Scott Frasure hooked up with Roger Stamper, who scampered 76 yards for a TD run on the 3rd play of the game, a play that electrified the fans, bringing them to their feet as Stamper sped down left field hopelessly chased by the Golden Eagles.

Jeff Trent’s successful kick put the Bobcats in control 7-0, and that same score ended the game.

The game was the second in a row in which the Bobcats shut out the Golden Eagles. Last year, it was 6-0.

“Pride, condition, and determination of our boys kept Johnson Central from scoring,” observed coach Holcomb.  “That’s typical of our boys,” continuing, he added, “I thought we played our defense well then we had to, but overall, we were lacking.”

One time, when the defense certainly was not lacking occurred early in the 4^th quarter.  Central recovered a Breathitt fumble on Breathitt’s 35-yard line and, eight plays later, were within inches of scoring.  The determined defensive line not only held its ground but caused a fumble, which Banger Howard recovered.

It was the turning point in the game.  The Eagles never played impressively again.

Roger Stamper and Billy Herald paced the Bobcat offense, which totaled 234 yards rushing in 36 carries.  Stamper ran for 114 yards in 15 carries, and Herald gained 75 yards in 13 carries.  Rounding out the rushing was Dallas Warren, with 45 yards in eight carries.

Stamper led his team in unassisted tackles with five.  He was credited with four assisted ones.  Others as follows: Steve Chapman, four and two; Tim Caines, three and two; David Warren, four and five; and Reuben Turner, four and four.

Trent punted four times for an average of 35 yards.

On the line were some boys doing their part, too.  Coach Holcomb said he was especially pleased with David Niece, Reuben Turner, Greg Toler, David Warren, and Curtis Watts.

Filling in on the lime for injured Ricky Brewer was Steve Hollon, whom the coach said did an “adequate job as a sophomore.”

Holcomb said he thought the weather took its toll on both teams.  It rained just before the game, resulting in high humidity.  The end result was a wet ball very difficult to hold.

That may have counted in part for so many turnovers.  The ball was fumbled a total of nine times, seven of which were committed by Johnson Central.  Breathitt recovered three of those fumbles, and the Eagles reclaimed four.  Breathitt fumbled twice, and Johnson Central recovered both of them.

Even though the game’s only score happened very early in the contest, the game was not without its interesting plays.  The boys on the line did a fine job.  There was some good blocking and tackling throughout the game.

The running backs created some excitement with some good runs# even though they never materialized into a touchdown.

On Breathitt’s third play of their first possession in the 2nd quarter, Dallas Warren got a good 30-yard run that livened up the game considerably.

Later, Billy Herald, on three successive plays, ran the ball 32 yards, and just before the game ended, Stamper moved it 20 yards on a good run for the final thrill of the game.

The Jackson Times, September 1, 1983, page 7

Bulldogs in town for Honey Bowl

The Hazard Bulldogs will be in town Friday night for the Honey Bowl Football Game, the event that ushers in the 1983 Labor Day weekend end celebration in Breathitt County.

The Dogs have a new coach this year, Don Smith, who joins the Hazard coaching staff with several years of coaching experience.  He has coached in Butler and Nelson Counties and, most recently, in Corbin.

“He’s an outstanding coach,” Coach Holcomb said earlier this week.  “And he has some good athletes and lots of speed.”

Hazard’s record is 1-1.  They beat John’s Creek but lost 9-6 to Knott County Central last weekend. 

Action will start at 8:00 Friday night at Breathitt High’s field.  Coaches and players say they are hoping for a good turnout, not only to watch the game but to help usher in the ’83 Festival. It should be a great game with the Bulldogs out to avenge the 44-6 stomping they suffered at the hands and feet of the Bobcats in the ’82 Honey Bowl.

The Jackson Times, September 1, 1983, page 2

Hazard – September 2, 1983 – Win 36 – 0

Bobcats shutout Hazard 36-0 in Honey Bowl

Thanks to a good team effort Friday night, the Bobcats posted another victory and their second straight shutout in their 36-0 win over the Hazard Bulldogs.  The Honey Bowl victory improved their overall record to 3-0.

Stressing the fact that he thought the win was a team effort, Coach Holcomb added, “Even though individual awards were presented at the Honey Bowl game, I feel the win was a team effort.  The team played well together.  I would have given everybody a trophy if I could have.”

The Outstanding Offensive Lineman trophy went to David Warren, and Ricky Brewer got the Best Defensive Lineman award.  Tim Caines and Darrell Back tied for the Best Defensive Back position, while the Best Offensive Back trophy went to Billy Herald.

Roger Stamper was recognized as Breathitt’s MVP.

Holcomb said he felt the offensive team got off to a slow start but later made up for that slow beginning by executing well in the last three quarters.  “The offense worked together especially well,” he added.  “The boys blocked well.”

He also had words of praise for the defensive team.  For the last two games, they have held their opponents to zero. That’s as much as can be expected from a team.

The Bulldogs opened the game with fire in their eyes.  They were ready to play.  However, after a scoreless first quarter, they seemed to lose their zip.  Especially after Breathitt had scored 22 points by halftime.

Roger Stamper got the Bobcats on the board with two good TD runs, 40 and 37 yards, respectively, and Billy Herald scored on an eight-yarder.  Jeff Trent threw a conversion pass to Stamper and made good two kicking attempts to up the halftime score to 22-0.

In the third round, Herald ran for another touchdown, and Stamper scored on a 24-yard pass from quarterback Scott Frasure.  Trent kicked the PAT both times.

Dallas Warren led the team in tackles with eight unassisted and two assisted.

Darrel Back was credited with 7 and 3, Roger Stamper 6 and 2, and Steve Chapman 3 and 4.

Tim Caines made an interception.

Rushing stats revealed Stamper carried the ball eight times for 141 yards.  Herald netted 104 in 13 carries.  Dallas Warren picked up 19 yards in three carries.  Chris Swetnam carried the ball two times for 68 yards.  One of his runs was almost at TD, but he was caught near the goal line.

Scott Frasure completed six of his 13 passes.  Stamper was on the receiving end two times for 50 yards; Trent was there once for Five, and Dallas Warren latched onto one for 21.  Frasure connected with Tim Caines twice for 25 yards.

Recovering fumbles for the Bobcats were Herald, John Adkins, Rubern Turner, and Banger Howard.

Nineteen flags were dropped against Breathitt, which cost the Cats 120 yards.

Most of the JV saw some action Friday night.  Coach Holcomb said, for the most part, he was pleased with the way they responded.

Bobcats’ action Friday night is with Boyd County away.  Both teams have a 3-0 record.  Boyd’s is a 4-A team that Holcomb says will probably pass a lot.  “The team is well coached,” he added, “and comes from a strong football area.” He says he expects the game to be challenging and exciting.

The Jackson Times, September 8, 1983, page 13

Boyd County – September 9, 1983 – Loss 15 – 36

Boyd County defeats Bobcats

It was a glorious beginning but a sad ending for the Breathitt-Boyd County football game Friday night, that is. 

The good part is that Roger Stamper ignited his team and thrilled the fans with an opening kick-off 85-yard touchdown return.  The sad part is that the Cats lost the game 36-15, their first season loss.

The Bobcats were very much in the game going into the fourth quarter, as evidenced by the 17-15 score, Boyd’s advantage.

No one seems to know for sure what happened that last round, maybe a combination of several things, but one thing was for sure.  The Cats couldn’t contain the raving Lions.

They executed three touchdowns and one PAT in the last period of action.

The last three TDs were scored following Breathitt’s fumbles, which were recovered by Boyd.

Stamper also scored Breathitt’s 2nd TD.  That happened about midway through the second quarter after he wiggled his way right through host Boyd County’s line to narrow the Lion’s lead by two, 17-15.

Before that TD, though, Jeff Trent kicked a 35-yard field goal for the Bobcats.

Dallas Warren, who played a super game even under great pain, set the Breathitt club up with excellent field position following a fumble recovery on Boyd’s 1-yard line.  Even so, the Cats were unable to score.  The Lions firmly held the line and even pushed the Bobcats.

Despite some fine individual plays, things as a whole just didn’t fall in place for the Breathitt boys.  They lost several yards in penalties, some of which were calls against the coaches.

Despite the team loss, there were some exciting individual plays.  One was when Ruben Turner recovered a fumble, cutting short a strong drive Boyd had going for them on their first possession.  Later, Darryl Back recovered a fumble.  Just before the third quarter ended, Dallas Warren blocked a pass, and Billy Herald intercepted one.

The Friday night game is home with Morgan County.  Then, the following four games are away.

Before the game, the four BYF football teams that have recently been organized will be playing.  That action starts at six.  During halftime, all BYF players and coaches will be introduced.

The Jackson Times, September 15, 193, page 7

Morgan County – September 16, 1983 – Loss 19 – 26

Bobcats experience second season loss

Bill Allen, Morgan County quarterback, zeroed in on 14 of his 20 passes Friday night to lead his team to a 26-19 win over the Bobcats, their second straight loss.

The loss doesn’t tell the whole story, however.  The Bobcats played a fine game.  “I thought we played awfully hard,” observed coach Mike Holcomb.  “I told my boys,” he continued.  “That as long as we play hard, good things will happen to us.”

Allen is one of the outstanding high-school quarterbacks in the state.  He is highly recruited by several colleges.  Coach Holcomb described him as one of the best high school quarterbacks he’s ever seen.

Despite all that, the Bobcats were with striking distance at any point of the ball game.  Part of the time, they were in the lead, and at half-time, the game was tied up at 19-19

In the gridiron first-round battle, it looked as if it was going to be one of those 45-50 ball games.  In the opening kickoff, the Cougars recovered a fumble, and six players later scored a TD. 

Reuben Turner returned the ensuing kickoff to Breathitt’s 46, and on the first down, Roger Stamper scored on a 54-yard run.  Jeff Trent’s kick was good, putting the Cats in control 7-6.  It was a short-lived lead because Morgan County came back on their first possession and scored on Allen’s one-yard run.

On Breathitt’s following 1 and 10, Dallas Warren carried for 50 yards before being downed on the 10-yard line.  Three plays later, he ran it in from eight yards out, putting his team back in command 13-12.

Just before the first half ended, the Cats got excellent field position when they took over on the Cougars’ 34-yard line following two quarterback sacks for a 21-yard loss.  From their new position, quarterback Scott Frasure completed a 22-yard pass to Reuben Turner and three plays later, with 0:59 left in the half, Dallas Warren scored on a two-yard run to even the score at 19-19 at intermission.

Morgan County came back fresh from the break, took over on their 26, and gradually moved the ball through 13 plays to score on Darrell Burke’s 4-yard pass from Allen.  Their PAT was good, posting the final 26-19 score.

Stamper carried the ball 10 times for 105 yards for the Bobcats.  Dallas Warren moved it 87 yards on 11 carries, and Herald gained 12 in 2 carries.

Jeff Trent averaged 37 yards per punt.

Darryl Back led the team in tackles with 13 to his credit.  Ricky Brewer made 12 and Billy Herald 10.  Banger Howard was credited with 8.  Tim Caines, David Warren, and Roger Stamper each made 6 each.  Reuben Turner got 5, and the following made 4 each: John Adkins, David Niece, and Albert Howard.

Friday night, the Cats start a four-game series away from home.  Friday night, it is a conference and district game with Leslie County.  “The upcoming game is the real thing,” said Coach Holcomb in reference to its being a district-conference contest.  “Everything else has been preliminary.  Now is where the action really begins.”

He added that Leslie County had a well-coached team, and they always play us tough- “We expect the same usual tough game we’ve experienced in the past,” he concluded.

The Jackson Times, September 22, 1983, page 5

Leslie County – September 23, 1983 – Win 7 – 6

Cats win first district game

After a sluggish start, the Bobcats defeated a determined Leslie County team last Friday night to win their first district and second conference game 7-6.

That brings them face-to-face with Clay County this weekend in an away game, the second district contest.  Breathitt and Clay both have one district win to their credit.  The Bobcats, of course, downed Leslie County, and Clay defeated Knott Central.  It’s going to be a big game and an important win for whichever team comes out on top.  The win will put one of the teams in the driver’s seat.

Clay County is rated 5th in the state in class 3-A.  “Clay has a well-coached team,” observed coach Holcomb.  “They have an outstanding quarterback and a good running back.”

In the Breathitt-Leslie battle, Breathitt was unable to get on the board until near the end of the 3rd quarter when Tim Caines scored on a 35-yard touchdown pass from Frasure.  The extra-point kick by Trent was successful, giving the Cats a 7-6 lead, which they maintained for the rest of the game.

The game got off to a slow start.  Neither team scored in the first period, and there was only 1:11 left in the first half when the Eagles posted their first and only TD on a 20-yard pass by Wells to Hoskins.

Leslie started their drive on Breathitt’s 38-yard line after intercepting a pass and returning the ball 15 yards.  They gained 10 yards rushing and 18 in the air before Breathitt’s stubborn defense held them on the spot for two straight plays and a loss of five yards on the 3rd play when David Warren sacked the quarterback, making it four and 15 to go.  That’s when Wells fired his bomber to Hoskins, a play very similar to one Leslie used two years ago against Breathitt.

The Eagles’ quarterback completed 11 of his 20 passes.

Midway through the last round, Leslie failed to capitalize on an opportunity to take the lead.  Dallas Warren intercepted a pass on Breathitt’s 10-yard line. Three plays later, the Cats fumbled, and the Eagles took over on the Cats’ 20.  The Cats’ defense didn’t let them move far.

On the 4th down, they still had six yards to go- a great time for a field goal.  The Eagles tried it, but the attempt failed.

That seemed to be the turning point in the game.  The Eagles never played impressively again.

The Breathitt fans appeared to play a role in encouraging and motivating the Cats in the second half especially.  “I thought they really picked our players up,” observed coach Holcomb.  And speaking of fans, he said he and the team were hoping for a great turnout at Gay County Friday night.  “We’re going to need all the help we can get,” he continued.

David Warren led the team in unassisted tackles Friday night.  He was credited with eight and two assists.  In total, tackles Banger Howard and John Adkins led the pack with 11 each.  Banger had seven unassisted and John four.

Darryl Back and Billy Herald made eight each, and Billy also had one fumble recovery.  And speaking of Darryl, coach Holcomb pointed out that he felt Darryl played courageously.  He took a hard lick in the 1st half but came back and played well.  “That proved to me he had real determination,” Holcomb added.

Ricky Brewer was in on seven tackles, and Tim Caines, Roger Stamper, and Reuben Turner each made six.  Paul Turner had three unassisted and two assists.

Jeff Trent punted three times for an average of 41 yards.

The Jackson Times, September 29, 1983, page 9

Clay County – September 30, 1983 – Win 22 – 0

Bobcats dominate in district

The Bobcats won their second district game in a row Friday night when they romped Clay County 22-0 on Clay’s turf before the largest crowd to ever see the Tigers play, according to an announcement by local stats keeper.

It was an important district game for each team since both the Tigers and Bobcats had won one district game each.  Clay went into the game with a 6-0 record and reportedly had high expectations of defeating the Bobcats- something they have not done since the two schools have been scheduling each other.

The Cats completely dominated the game, soundly outplaying the host from start to finish.  The Breathitt squad had 58 plays from the line of scrimmage, while Clay had only 25.

The Tigers possessed the ball only two times in the first quarter and lost three and five yards, respectively, each possession.  Furthermore, they fumbled the ball on their 3rd play, and Dallas Warren recovered.  They fumbled it again on their first play in the second quarter, to be recovered by Bobcat Darryl Back.

Near the end of the half, the host team took over on Breathitt’s 40-yard line (it was their 4th possession) and soon got a first down.  However, on their next six plays, they lost 13 yards, giving them a minus yards gained in the first half.

In the meantime, Breathitt was playing one of its best games of the season.  By intermission, the Cats were in command 15-0.  After Dallas recovered Clay’s first fumble, the Bobcats took over on the Tigers’ 40.  Then quarterback Scott Frasure got five on a keeper, and Billy Herald got two good runs, moving the ball down to the five-yard line.  On a short three-yard run, he then took it across for Breathitt’s first TD.  Trent’s kick was good, upping the score to 7-0.

The Cats’ second TD drive started on their 45. Twelve plays later, Dallas Warren took the ball in from seven yards out.  and the two-point conversion was good, giving the Cats a comfortable and encouraging 15-0 half-time lead.

Early in the 3rd round, Clay actually got good position when they took over on Breathitt’s 36.  They completed a 12-yard pass, but that was as much as Breathitt’s stubborn defense would give up.  They held them to no gain on three plays before they intercepted a pass.

Moving into the 4th round, the Cats’ desire for another touchdown could almost be sensed by the fans.  It all started with 7:35 left to play.  Breathitt started the action from their 47.  Stamper tarried for five, and then Herald ran for 25.  At that point, many of the Tiger fans began leaving the bleachers, apparently feeling it was a lost cause.  Still not willing to give up, one of the Tigers turned to the fans in desperation and yelled, “Stand up and holler, or we ain’t going to win.”

The Cats continued their drive with relative ease, gaining 5 to 6 yards a play.  With 2:56 left to go, Stamper dashed across the goal line from five yards out for his team’s third and last TD.  Trent’s kick was good, bringing the final score to 22-0.

Obviously delighted with the win, Coach Holcomb said he felt it was basically a team effort, “with each player taking care of his responsibility.”

He also added that he felt the team was mentally ready to play the game.  “They went into the game with a sense of pride and a desire to win,” he added.

The win came at a critical time.  “It started us on an upbeat,” continued Holcomb.  “We needed our spirits lifted as we move into the final four season games on our schedule.”

Scott Frasure said he felt “determination” made the difference in the game, and Ricky Brewer added, “It meant the season to us.”

Holcomb said he was well pleased with the performance of the men on the line- Ricky Brewer, David Warren, David Niece, Greg Toler, and Curtis Watts.  “We won the game there,” he continued.

He added that he was also well pleased with Reuben Turner, who did an outstanding job at defensive and offensive end.

Mention should also be made of the excellent tackle by Ray Baker.  Without that tackle, Clay would have had clear sailing for a touchdown late in the first half.  It happened on a kick-off return.  The carrier wiggled and pushed his way right through several attempted Bobcat tackles only to face Baker, who brought him down Breathitt’s 40.

Herald carried the ball 16 times for 92 yards.  Stamper ran 86 yards in 18 carries, and Dallas covered 52 in 13.

Since the Bobcats controlled the ball most of the game, there was little opportunity for defensive action.  However, David Warren was the leading tackler with five.  Billy Herald, Ricky Brewer, and Darryl Back each made four.

The Jackson Times, October 6, 1983, page 10

Whitesburg – October 7, 1983 – Win 20 -0

Cats shut out Whitesburg 20-0 in Conference win

The Bobcats scored on drives of 73, 64, and 48 yards Friday night to kill the Whitesburg Yellow Jackets 20-0.

“We got after them really well,” pointed out coach Holcomb as the summation of the game, “and we never let up.”

So far as that goes, he said Whitesburg didn’t let up either.  Even though they never scored, they played as if they always had a chance at winning.  Holcomb added he was pleased with the aggressive way his team played.  He pointed out that his squad was up for the game and went into it “mentally sharp.”

The Cats opened the game on their own after Whitesburg kicked off, and there never appeared to be any doubt but what they would turn their possession into a touchdown.  After four 1st downs and an average of 5.7 yards per play, Billy Herald ran the ball across from two yards out.  Jeff Trent’s kick was good, putting the Cats in control, 7-0.

“Breathitt didn’t score again until near the end of the 3rd quarter.  Taking over on their 36, the Cats just pushed their way up the field in hard-nose football except for a good 25-yard run by Roger Stamper, who ran the ball to Whitesburg’s 30.  From there, they moved it eight yards on three plays before the officials dotted the field with flags for a 15-yard penalty on the Breathitt guys.  Even so, it did not deter their determination.  They continued their aggressive playing and scored their 2nd TD on an eight-yard run by Stamper with 2:56 left in the period.

There were only three seconds remaining in the game when Stamper dashed from two yards out for the team’s last TD, jumping the winning score to 20-0.

The officials appeared flag-happy throughout the entire game during Breathitt’s possessions.  They dropped them nine times against the Cats for a loss of 105 yards.  By way of contrast, the Yellow Jackets were penalized only once for five yards.

Stamper led the pack in rushing for 185 yards on 25 carries.  Dallas Warren rushed 73 yards on 12 carries.  Herald carried eight times for 44 yards.  Frasure rushed on two keepers for 21 yards, and Darryl Back got 12 yards on two.

David Warren was the leader in the tackles category with a total of 10.  Close behind was Darryl Back with nine; Chapman, eight; Brewer, seven; Adkins, five; and Turner, four.

Holcomb said he was well pleased with the offensive line and thought they performed well.  “In fact,” he added, “their experience is showing each game.”  On that line are Ricky Brewer, Greg Toler, David Niece, Curtis Watts, and David Warren.

On the defensive line, he said he was well pleased with the performance of Steve Chapman and Darryl Back, who were instrumental in holding Whitesburg to zero.  That’s two teams in a row that have not scored on the Cats.  Last week, of course, they romped Clay County 22-0.

Holcomb added that he thought Stamper showed his old running form once again and that Dallas Warren put in a fine performance at running back.

Even though some team members did play especially well against Whitesburg, Holcomb stressed that the win was a team effort.  “Everybody was in there taking care of his responsibility,” he added.

Even though the officials kept taking yards away from Breathitt, that never killed the Cats’ spirit.  They continued to play well, thrilling their fans with several good plays.  Take Whitesburg’s first possession, for example.  It was during that play they received their only penalty, setting them back five yards.  Then Billy Herald inflected a loss of three yards, and David Warren sacked their quarterback for a loss of 6, making it 4 and 21 to go on the last play of their first possession.

When they got the ball again, they gained only one yard in four plays- thanks to a determined defense.

On their third possession, they had only one yard to go for a first down, but the Breathitt line didn’t give an inch.  Such was the competition with which the Yellow Jackets were greeted in to first quarter.

On another occasion, David Warren sacked the quarterback again for a loss of six, and David Niece did the same thing with 5:50 left to play.

Another exciting play came when Tim Caines, who was injured on the opening kick-off return, made a fine tackle without which Whitesburg would probably have scored.

Friday night, the Cats will be playing M.C. Napier in a conference game away.  The Navajos have a 7-1 record.  Holcomb described their team as the best Napier probably has ever had.  He added that Coach Dixon has them well prepared.

Expressing appreciation for recent away fan support, Holcomb said he and the team encourage fans everywhere to support the team Friday night.  Vocal support (or a lack of it), he said, could make the difference in the outcome of the game, he stressed.

The Jackson Times, October 13, 1983, page 14

M. C. Napier – October 14, 1983 – Loss 18 – 28

Cats fall to Napier 28-18 in conference play

“What happened anyway?”

“How fast the pace changed.”

Those were the kind of comments one heard Friday night at M.C. Napier football field, where the Bobcats and Navajos battled it out in a conference game.

Before four minutes ticked off the clock, Breathitt already had a 12-0 lead.  The first TD occurred on a 31-yard run by Billy Herald after Breathitt took over on their 48 following a good kick-off return by Roger Stamper.

Breathitt kicked off after their TD, and there followed seemingly a bit of confusion.  For some reason or another, the Navajos did not pick up the ball.  The Bobcats grabbed it, and three plays later, Herald ran from two yards out for TD No. 2.  The kick failed after each TD, leaving the score 12-0.

The Bobcats continued to dominate through practically all the remaining half.  On Napier’s first possession, for example, the Cats inflected a fumble, and they took over on Napier’s 46.  On the Navajos’ next possession, they gained 27 before the Cats’ defense stopped them on Breathitt’s 48.  The next time they got the ball, their quarterback was sacked for a loss of 15 yards.  As though all that was not enough to discourage them, they failed on two plays to get one yard for a first down.

Things seemed to be going Breathitt’s way.  The team seemed firmly in control.  With 1:06 left in the first half, they took over on their own 45.  Dallas Warren ran the ball 10 yards on the first play for a first down, and then the team moved it six more yards, making it 2nd down and four to go, leaving 11 seconds in the half.

Coach Holcomb called time out, and when play returned, quarterback Frasure threw a pass that Larry Napier intercepted and ran 78 yards for a TD.  Kevin Duff’s run was successful, and for the first time, it appeared Breathitt did, after all, have a game on their hands as the half-time score registered 12-8.

That play was one of the turning points in the game.  Napier’s momentum was sky-high.  They came back fresh from the break, took over on their 33, and 11 plays later, took the lead from Breathitt when Larry Napier scored again, this time on a three-yard run, jumping the score to 14-12.

The Cats took over on their 33 but fumbled their possession on their 40.  On Napier’s very first play, Larry Napier received the ball, took off down the right side of the field, and didn’t stop until he reached the end zone.  The two-point conversion was good, and the score jumped to 22-12 with 2:42 left in the 3rd period.

Culminating a 78-yard drive, the Cats narrowed the margin to 22-18 when Herald scored on a 1-yarder, but the Navajos came back for another TD (by Mike Napier, as usual) for the final 28-18 victory.

Enjoying the best team they may have ever had, M.C. Napier got its momentum going, and there was no stopping them, said coach Mike Holcomb.  He added that he felt the Cats did not play up to their potential defensively.

Even though the Cats got beat, Holcomb said he felt they had “class.” He pointed out that there were no problems even though the teams have developed considerable rivalry in recent years.

Even though his team lost, Holcomb said some boys played outstandingly.  He added the offensive line did ”an outstanding job.  An intelligent bunch of boys, they opened up some holes and blocked well.”

He pointed out that Dallas Warren had a good game, breaking out for some really good runs.

Reuben Turner, he added, played his steady game, getting in some good blocks, and Eddie Strong and Tim Caines did a fine job blocking on the outside. 

Dallas was the leading rusher.  He ran for 87 yards on 14 carries.  Herald carried the ball 16 times for 84 yards and Stamper six times for 25.  He also returned four kick-off returns for 84 yards.

Quarterback Frasure completed four of his eight passes for 55 yards.

Stats in the tackles category read as follows: Darryl Back made six unassisted.  Steve Chapman had five unassisted and 1 assisted.  David Warren was 8-0.  Billy Herald 5-4, Reuben Turner 8-1, Dallas Warren 4-3, Roger Stamper 5-2, David Niece 2-0, and Banger Howard 3-1.

This week, the Bobcats will be playing at home in the next to the last scheduled game of the season.  They’ll take on Knott County Central, which will be both a conference and district game.  It is also Homecoming.

The Jackson Times, October 20, 1983, page 8

Knott County – October 21, 1983 – Win 18 – 0

Breathitt Bobcats shutout Knott Central with 18-0 score

The Bobcats clinched their third district game Friday night when they shut out Knott County Central 18-0.  Earlier, they beat district contenders Leslie and Clay Counties.

The win improved the Cats’ overall record to 7-3, leaving one more game, Estill County, in the scheduled season.  That game will be played at home Friday night.

Estill County’s season got off to a bleak start, losing to Madison 14-0 and to Prestonsburg 6-0.

Since then, the boys from Ervine registered five straight wins, but they fell to Danville Friday night.  Estill County, 8-2 last year, may not have a quarterback in the same class as Chris Winkler, its 1982 star who now is at Morehead.  And it may not have a running back quite like Robbie Wiseman, one of the state’s top scorers in 1979 when he was a Senior at Estill County.

However, Estill’s ’83 team has solid balance, as evidenced by its running game.  Fullback Tommy Colby has carried the ball 85 times for 375 yards and five touchdowns; tailback Billy Wiseman 83 times for 351 yards and four TDs; and wingback-tailback Dean Simpson 50 times for 348 yards and two scores.

Quarterback Tim Richardson has completed 35 of 76 passes for 524 yards and six TDs while having five passes intercepted.

Coach Holcomb said he expects the game Friday night to be a real battle.  “It will be pure competition,” he added.  “They’ll be ready to play.”

The two teams were at summer camp together and, therefore, know each other relatively well.

In the Knott Central-Breathitt game Friday night, the Cats got on the board midway through the first quarter when Roger scored on a one-yard run that started on Knotts 49.

Averaging 6.3 yards per play on their first possession, the Cats played determinedly as they pushed through Knott’s line toward their TD.  “I think our offensive line has improved each week this season,” observed Coach Holcomb following the game.

Holcomb said overall, he was not well pleased with the team’s defensive effort.  However, there were a few times when the team played well.  Take Knott’s second possession, for instance.  Through their own rushing efforts and penalties on Breathitt, the Painots were within two yards of scoring.  Through two downs, the Patriots made no gain, and on the following play, Steve Chapman intercepted their pass, killing all hopes for a TD.

Referring to that series of plays, Hohomb added, “They rose to the occasion.  When their backs are to the wall, they do something to get themselves out.”

For the remainder of the first half, neither team was able to initiate an exciting drive.  However, coming back from intermission, the Cats appeared ignited and made the third period one of the most exciting of the game.  It started when Roger executed a 20-yard run on the first down of the last half, and two plays later, ran 50 yards for a TD number two, pushing the score to 12-0

On Knott’s first possession, the Bobcat defense gave up only four yards, forcing the Patriots to punt on their 4th down with six to go.  The Cats took over and lacked only five yards scoring again thanks to some good runs by Herald, Stamper, and an eleven-yard gainer on a keeper by Frasure.

Knott was on the line of scrimmage the following IS plays.  However, all that was not due to their execution.  Much of it was because of penalties against Breathitt.  Even so, there were some exciting plays when, for instance, the Cats broke up a Knott pass.  Ricky Brewer sacked the quarterback, and David Niece did it twice for a loss of 18 yards.

The Cats’ last TD drive started early in the 4th quarter from their own 30. Eleven plays later, Stamper scored Breathitt’s third touchdown on a 5-yarder after he got some good help along the way from the line and an excellent catch by Jeff Trent from quarterback Frasure.

Knott Central never gave up the entire game.  On their last series of plays, their quarterback completed a pass to Olinger, who probably would have scored had it not been for Tim Caines’ tackle.  Stamper nailed the lid on their hopes tight when he intercepted their pass on their last possession of the game, bringing the homecoming game to a happy conclusion for the Cats and their many fans.

Holcomb said he contributed to the win to a total team effort.  “We were prepared mentally and physically for the game,” he added.  Though the win was basically a team effort, he said there were some outstanding individual efforts.  He said he felt Dallas, Darryl, Roger, and Billy played a good game.  “Roger hit the holes that the line opened for him.  He played relaxed and confident throughout the game,” observed Holcomb.  He pointed out that Ricky Brewer had a good all-round game as well as the rest of the defensive line.

Roger led the rushing attack with 209 yards on 26 carries.  Billy rushed 7 times for 43 yards, and Dallas 36 on 5.  Scott gained 16 yards on a couple of keepers.  The team total was 321 yards rushing.

Scott Frasure completed 2 of 5 passes for 56 yards.  Holcomb pointed out that the team played a power game mostly due to the weather.

Rirky led the team in tackles with a total of 13, of which 8 were unassisted tackles.  Darryl’s total was 7.  Steve 6.  Reuben 6.  David Warren 5.  John 6.  David Niece 6.  Dallas 5, and Tim 4.  Steve and Roger each had one pass interception.

The Jackson Times, October 27, 1983, page 10

Estill County – October 28, 1983 – Win 21 – 14

Cats end season with score of 21-14

The Bobcats wound up their regular scheduled season in style Friday night when they defeated Estill County 21-14.

The Breathitt High R.O.T.C. color guard got the game off to a colorful start, and the cheerleaders and band kept the momentum going throughout the game.

The Bobcats hit the boards early, as they have in so many games this season. Estill kicked off, and Roger Stamper returned the ball to Breathitt’s 33, and then it was moved to Estill’s 47 following a 15-yard penalty on the Engineers. The Cats gained no yards on their first two downs, but they made up for it on the third when Stamper swept down the left side of the field for a 52-yard touchdown run, bringing the fans to their feet as he pushed and dodged his way through the Estill line to clear sailing.

It was a delight to all fans but especially to Roger’s dad, who was able, for the first time since Roger has been playing football, to attend a game and see his son play. It was a performance he could take pride in, as Roger played well on both offense and defense. Just before the 1st half ended, for instance, he completed a 45-yard run to Estill’s 10-yard line, but there was not enough time to continue the drive that had the possibility of being turned into another TD.

Estill was unable to initiate a sustained drive except toward the end of the first half when they began moving the ball from their own 44. Depending heavily on 230-pound fullback Tommy Covey, the Engineers rolled down the field and scored on a 2-yard run by Covey with 2:05 left in the half. The extra point was good, and the teams went into the midway break, all tied up at 7-7.

Coming back from the break, the Bobcats capitalized on a couple of expensive turnovers by Estill and turned both of them into points. Estill returned Breathitt’s 2nd half-opening kickoff but fumbled it when a Bobcat hit the carrier. The Cats recovered it, and on the first play, Roger upped the score to 13-7 on his 25-yard run.

Two possessions later, the Engineers fumbled again, and the Cats recovered, this time on Estill’s 10. On Breathitt’s third play, Billy Herald scored a touchdown and then ran the ball for two extra points, increasing the Cats’ lead to 21-7.

On a pass from Billy Wiseman, Estill’s Dean Stamper scored his team’s last TD on a run from 21 yards out. The kick was good, and the final score, 21-14, was cast.

The Jackson Times, November 3, 1983, page 9

The Playoffs

Bobcats approach playoffs with positive attitude

If going into a game with a positive attitude has anything to do with winning it, the Bobcats ought to be in good shape Friday night when they take on Russell in the regional championship played at BHS field.

Darryl Back seemed to express the feelings of most of the Bobcats (if not all of them) when he said.  “My gut feeling is that we’re going to win that game if I have to do it by myself.  That’s just how much I want it.”

More than anything, the team wants this game, Darryl added.  “it’s not just icing on the cake.  This is what we’ve worked for all year,” he continued.

“We’ve got to have it,” added David Warren.  “We’ve been working hard for it.  We’re mentally ready, and we’re going to play good enough to win it.”

Coach Holcomb said he felt really good going into the game and felt that his team was in good mental condition for it.  “It is a very close team,” he added.  “The guys have worked hard, and they are a very determined group of young men.  He said he felt they could relate to what

Russell did to us last year (20-0) in the regional playoff.

This is the first time the regional playoff has been held in Breathitt, and it should be a plus for the local squad.  Starting at 8:00 p.m., the game will be officiated by officials from the 15th region.

Russell is expected to bring a large crowd, and seats will be available on a first come-first serve basis.  Russell’s overall record is 8-2 compared to Breathitt’s 8-3.  Russell has a strong team, one well-coached by Ivan McGlone.  Coach Holcomb said he felt their real strength was in their defense, though teams sometimes get caught up worrying about Russell’s offense.

Holcomb said he did not plan any new plays for the Friday night game.  “My game plan is to execute what we do best.  We’ve been polishing some of our plays, but there won’t be anything new.”

In preparation for the Friday night contest, there will be a public pep rally at the football field at 6:30.  Of course, the public is not only invited, it is urged to be present.

When asked what was the one thing he felt the Bobcats would have to do Friday night to beat Russell.  Roger Stamper answered in two words: “tough defense.” “We’ll have to play the same kind of defense we did against Clay County.” he continued.  Roger added that he felt the team really wanted to continue in the playoffs.  For that reason, “We have to win,” he said.  “We have a lot of talent on our team, and we’ve worked as hard as anyone in order to continue in the playoffs.”

Reuben Turner said he wasn’t going v into the game with the idea of a pushover.  “It’s going to be tough.” he confessed, “but we can win if we play’ good ball…We have a chance to be the first team from Breathitt to ever beat them.”

That opportunity, indeed, seems to be a driving factor with many of the players. 

So eager are the boys for a victory that coach Holcomb said if he were going to get into a fight, he would really love to have the boys he has in his squad on his side.

Greg Toler said he felt like the team was ready to go.  “I feel this year- we really want to play more than last year’s team did…We are capable of beating Russell.  If every person plays like we’re capable of doing., we’ll beat ’em.”

“Yes,” said David Niece, “if we put it all together like we are capable of doing, we’ll be alright.”

The Jackson Times, November 10, 1983, page 1

Russell – November 11, 1983 – Loss 6 – 7

Russell squeaks by Bobcats 7-6 in playoffs

Last Friday night was a very sad occasion for the Breathitt Bobcats and their fans.  They fell to Russell 7-6 in the playoffs.  It was an especially sad night for the 11 seniors who suddenly realized it was the last time to play for Breathitt High.

One bright aspect of the game was that the team played well.  As one Bobcat expressed it, “We gave the game all we had.  We played as good as we could.” 

Though the loss hurt him, Coach Holcomb said he was proud of the way the team played.  There were no mental mistakes, he added, and everybody played hard.  “Deep down, they knew they played as hard as they could.  They gave it everything they had.  The boys have nothing to hang their heads about.”

Another positive outcome of the game, according to Holcomb, is that the team learned it can compete with schools that have traditionally strong football programs.  “Our younger boys see now that we can play with any of them,” he continued.

Last year, for example, the Cats lost to Russell 20-0.  This year’s 7-6 score represents the closest game the Cats have ever played the Red Devils. 

Although it is usually hard to pinpoint the worst aspect about losing a game, coach Holcomb had no trouble telling what that “worst part” was following the narrow defeat. “The worst part is that I’m losing 11 fine seniors that I’ve grown to really appreciate,” he added.  “Some were just understanding what we’re trying to do offensively and defensively.  I wish I had them for one more year.  I hate to see them go.”

As has been the case in many games this year, the Bobcats jumped out to an early 6-0 lead.  In fact, they got their TD on their very first possession.  They started the drive on their own 22 with 7:49 left in the first half.  Nine plays later, Billy Herald ran from 11 yards out to put the Cats on the board.  Along the way, they got an excellent boost from a 20-yard run by Roger Stamper.

The Bobcats maintained the lead until mid-way through the last quarter.  Taking over on Breathitt’s 34 following a 15-yard penalty against the Cats, Russell steadily moved the ball down the field.  With a 5-yard run, Chuck Kidd put the Red Devils on the board, and Tom Sparks’ kick was good, giving them a slim 7-6 advantage.

Taking over on their 40, the Cats initiated a good drive and moved the ball to Russell’s 24.  Herald got a 13-yard run on that drive and Stamper a 19-yarder following a pass from quarterback Scott Frasure.

The Cats went down fighting hard.  They can hold their heads high with the assurance they gave the game their best effort.  They treated their fans to some super exciting games this season.  One fan’s simple comment ”We’re proud of them,” seemed to vocalize the feelings of others.  They closed their season with an 8-4 record.

The Jackson Times, November 17, 1983, page 17

Post Season Awards

3 Bobcats get state honors

Three Breathitt Bobcats were honored in the Courier Journal’s recent selection of All-State teams and honorable mentions.

Ricky Brewer was named to the All-State second-team defense.

Roger Stamper received an honorable mention as running back.

David Warren was nominated for honorable mention twice–as an offensive lineman and defensive lineman.

Coach Holcomb said he was delighted to have three men from his squad so recognized.  He added that he felt they all were deserving of the honor they received.  Ricky, he said, was very hard-working and deserved his position on the All-State second team.

It is unusual to have a player named to two honorable mention positions.  Holcomb added that he felt David was very deserving of being selected to both teams.

“We ranked Roger high as a running back,” explained Holcomb.  “His record speaks for itself.  There is no doubt but that he deserves his honors.  He did a lot for us.”

At this point, the three boys are not sure what their future will consist of.  Ricky Brewer has been contacted by several colleges interested in his abilities.  However, he has not made any commitment at this time.  Colleges that have expressed an interest in him are Eastern, UK, Morehead, Furman University, and Notre Dame.

Roger is also still in the thinking stages.  He wants to play football some place but has not made a definite decision either.

At this point in time, David Warren is of the opinion he does not want to pursue a football career in college.

The Jackson Times, December 8, 1983, page 16

Football Banquet

BHS Football banquet sets new precedent for awards

One striking feature of last week’s football banquet was it broke with tradition.  Stressing the fact that football was a “team sport and a team effort.”

Coach Holcomb did not present individual accomplishment awards.  That is, there was no MVP, no best defense, no most yards gained, etc.  “It takes people working together to win a football game,” continued Holcomb.  “The running back carries the ball, and the quarterback completes passed because other players are covering their responsibilities,” he continued.

He pointed out that individual trophies are for tennis, swimming, and golf.  “But it takes people working together to win football games.”

Therefore, all players received a football trophy indicating the Bobcats were “1983 District Champs,” and each senior was presented a personalized plaque with a team picture and identification of that person’s position on the team.          

Coach said he felt when a player came up through the ranks as his seniors had that, they deserved to be recognized.  As he made presentations to the Seniors, he did so with comments about each.

Greg Toler, he said, played with pride and desire, and he did what it took to get the job done.

David Niece was described as an inspiration to the team, a good fighter, will do anything to block a man. 

Steve Chapman did what it took to make plays.  He matured a lot.

Daryl Back did what we asked him to do,” said Holcomb.  “He desired to do good.”

Reuben Turner went both ways and did an outstanding job.  He was a hard-working boy-fine athlete.

Scott Frasure had a good strong arm and did a good job, said his coach.  He matured a lot during the year.

Bill Herald stands tall on the football field, thinks Holcomb.  He has a lot of heart, and he runs well.

Tim Caines was a pleasure to coach, said Holcomb.  “We got a lot from a little man.”

Ricky Brewer made himself a football player.  He did the extras, and now he has people after him, Holcomb said.

David Warren played with both heart and mind.  He was a real student of the game.  Excellent tackle.

Roger Stamper is super talented.  He played all over the field and did whatever we asked him to.

The banquet was a fun evening.  All the speakers were in good moods, and each added a different dimension to the enjoyable evening.  One of the really nice “dimensions” was the excellent food Wilma Quicksell and her staff of helpers so efficiently prepared and served.  There was ham, a choice of vegetables, salads, delicious pie with ice cream, and those good hot rolls to which there seemed to be no end.  Servers just kept coming to see if we wanted more.

Master of ceremonies, Ben Vest, introduced Mr. Eugene Sebastian, who set the tone of the evening with his witty remarks.  On the more serious side, he said.  “I appreciate these fine young men.  I’m proud of you.  I’m proud of the gentlemen you are.  This must come first, and other things will fall in place.”

Karen Griffith expressed appreciation to her cheerleading girls.  “I’m proud of them all,” she said.  She also expressed appreciation to Johnny Keene for the help he had given the girls with their gymnastics.  The three seniors on the squad included Cheri Ison, Deana Marshall, and Renee Clair.  Other girls included Susie Clemons, Tammy Carpenter, Melissa Deaton, Melissa Gabbard, Julie Toler, Lavonna Howard, Shelby Prater, and Stacy Chapman.

Mrs. Griffith said her seniors were going to be hard to replace because they had shown excellent leadership.

Coach Gabbard talked briefly of his freshmen team, expressing appreciation to Jeff Gabbard and Darren McKnight, who had helped him with the young 30 freshmen on the team.  “They are all quality people,” said Gabbard.  “You can look for good things from them in the future.”

Coach Peterson works with the JVS.  He was optimistic about their possibilities for next season.  “Next year, I think you’ll find a fine bunch of young men on the field,” he stressed.

Coach John Paul Chapman added, “Coach Holcomb had a great influence on the team’s record.  Coach Holcomb is a winner, and that rubbed off,” Chapman added that he, too, was proud of the boys, and he appreciated the opportunity of working with them.

In conclusion, Holcomb stated.  “Football in 1983 at BHS has been excellent for me.  I don’t think I could have started my career coaching with a finer bunch of boys.  It has been a learning experience for me just as it has been for the boys.”

The Jackson Times, December 8, 1983, page 15

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The 1983 team fought hard for each other. Using the motto: “We Did It As A Team,” they battled hard and claimed eight wins with a team full of players in “new positions.” The Bobcats won the team’s third AAA District Championship in ten years and advanced to the second round of the Playoffs. The 1983 Bobcats adjusted to a new coaching staff who changed many of the approaches and plays the team ran. Coach Holcomb called 1983 an “excellent year” and was very happy with the efforts of his boys.

The community was happy too. Coach Holcomb was in his third year as a coach at Breathitt and was well-liked in the community. “He was one of us,” a former Breathitt Board of Education member said. “We were very happy with his work ethic and his desire to teach our boys and help them grow. We hoped for big things from him and our boys in the coming years.”

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© 2023 Stephen D. Bowling