By Stephen D. Bowling

We continue an extended look at the games and events of the seasons of Breathitt Football. This week, we explore 1985.

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The focus on weightlifting and off-season preparation grew for the Breathitt High School Football program. The 1985 team started intense training before the 1984-1985 school year ended. They were prepared and in shape when the summer practice started. But mother nature would slow their efforts. The Summer of 1985 was hot and dry, and the team had to adjust their schedules to avoid the heat of the afternoons. Coaches moved the practices to the evening, and football camp activities were reduced to protect the players.

The Breathitt County School System said goodbye to Superintendent Eugene Sebastian after 16 years of service. During his tenure, the county added numerous new schools, remodeled others, expanded its sports program to include football, and then constructed a stadium. Alex Browning took over the operations of the school system.

A shift in focus by the Kentucky Department of Education placed a greater emphasis on academic achievement, and the KHSAA Board reduced the number of games football teams played by creating a “Bye Week” for most teams.

For most, 1985 was a year of great hope for the football team. They finished the year with a six-and-four record but missed the playoffs.

KHSAA Changes

KHSAA State Board considers compromises

The Kentucky High School Athletic Association has proposed cutbacks in the number of regular-season football and basketball games and other changes in athletic programs in order to limit the loss of school time because of athletic practice or games.

The recommendation came at a joint meeting of the KHSAA Board of Control and the Kentucky State Board of Education on Wednesday (January 2) in Frankfort.

The two groups also discussed the possibility of scheduling state high school basketball tournaments during spring breaks but reached no conclusions.  The KHSAA board agreed to study the scheduling issue further and make a recommendation to the State Board of Education, possibly by the education board’s March meeting.

“What we’re after is an overall feeling in Kentucky that academics docs rule the school day,” McDonald said.  “… We are looking, not to hurt athletics, but to help academics.”

He said the proposed cutbacks in the number of regular-season games would allow schools to schedule most of their games on Friday or Saturday nights.

This change would resolve a concern previously expressed by board members about the scheduling of games on nights before school days, he said.

The KHSAA recommendations would cut the number of regular-season football games, including pre-season bowl games, from 11 to 10.  For schools playing football, the number of regular-season basketball games would be cut from the present 24 to 20.  Schools that do not play football would be allowed to play 24 regular-season basketball games instead of the present 30.

Under the proposed rule changes, organized football practice in pads could not begin before August 1.  Players would be required to have five days of practice without pads before that time to become acclimated to heat conditions.  No organized basketball practice would be permitted before October 15.

The KHSAA board also proposed a rule change that would give the commissioner and board authority to suspend a coach, player, or member school for violations of sportsmanship.  This would permit the association to penalize the responsible individual instead of the whole school program, Mills said.

The two boards also discussed the issue of “redshirting,” or holding back students to give them more years of athletic play or allow them to gain maturity before playing.

James Ratcliffe, Chairman of the State Board of Education, asked the KHSAA board to consider a suggested rule change that would make redshirting an accreditation violation and to report to the state board at its March meeting.  The education board also approved a recommendation that the KHSAA amend its bylaws so the person accused of recruiting could be held responsible rather than the player.

The Jackson Times, January 10, 1985, page 17

Sebastian Retires

Superintendent Eugene Sebastian to retire

By D.S. Smith

Eugene Sebastian, Superintendent of Breathitt County Schools for 16 years, will retire after the current school year, he announced last week.

In a letter dated April 3 and addressed to the Breathitt County Board of Education, Sebastian announced that June 30 will be his last day to serve as chief administrator.

“1 just feel like it is time for me to retire,” Sebastian said earlier this week.  Sebastian, who will be 65 years old on April 13, has been a part of the county school system for 41 years, serving as teacher, principal, county instructional supervisor, and assistant superintendent before succeeding the late Superintendent Marie R. Turner.

“In all those years, I have never had a summer off or taken as much as three weeks’ vacation,” Sebastian said Monday.  “It’s time.”

Sebastian’s announcement came as somewhat of a surprise to the board since the school chief’s current contract would not have expired for three more years.

“I guess it surprised everyone,” Roy Gabbard, board chairman, said Monday.  “I thought we had a superintendent for four years back last year when we rehired him…But things change, don’t they?”

Gabbard, too, has been involved in the school system for a long time.  When his current term expires.  Gabbard will have served on the board for 25 years.  He, perhaps more than anyone else, is familiar with Sebastian’s accomplishments as Superintendent.

“All I could say about Gene Sebastian would be good,” Gabbard said.  The board chairman is one of many in Breathitt County who have said that Sebastian worked hard to become his “own man” after succeeding Mrs. Turner.

Sebastian said this week that he hopes he has left his own mark on the school system and that the system is better for his having been there.

“One gathers some kind of driftwood in the number of years I’ve been here,” Sebastian said Monday as he recalled some of his achievements as administrator.  “I hope it has made a difference.”

Perhaps the most noticeable improvements Sebastian has made have been in the areas of finances and construction. 

At a time when most schools face financial problems, Sebastian will leave the school system with about $1.5 million in investments.

“I realize I’ve been close with money,” Sebastian said.  “But I’m close with my own money, as well.  And I’ve never hesitated to make a sound investment.”  Money earned through those investments has helped build and furnish a new administration building, a football stadium, a bus garage, Rousseau Elementary, Sebastian Middle School, the second phase of L.B.J. Elementary, a new high school, and additions to Marie Roberts and Turner schools.

“I was honored to have one of those buildings bear my name,” the Superintendent said proudly.

Sebastian is also proud of his expansion of the sports program to include football, baseball, track and cross country, and a girls’ athletic program.

But above all, Sebastian said he is proud of the professional growth he has seen in the educational staff, most of whom he called “hard-working, dedicated, and committed to helping young people.”

“Commitments” is a term Sebastian uses often but not loosely.  And it is a term that has been used to describe the Superintendent himself.

Sebastian has dedicated most of his life to education.  Growing up on Canoe, Sebastian first attended the late Patsy Turner’s mission school and later the Highland mission school.  After attending Lees College for a short while, Sebastian received his teaching certificate and his master’s degree from Eastern College (now a university) in 1951 and 1952.  He then went on to receive his specialist in education certificate from George Peabody College in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1958.

One of eight boys reared by their father alone after their mother died, Sebastian learned early to accept responsibility.  He said the value, more than anything else, has helped in the administration position.

“I’ve always enjoyed work, particularly administrative work.  I’ve always been able to make fair decisions and to delegate responsibility when I needed to,” Sebastian said.

Sebastian plans to spend more time on his farm, where he has eight horses and cattle.  His wife, Vada, will continue to teach.  And Sebastian himself has promised to stay involved with education.

“I love the school system.  And I love the children,” he said Monday as a tear glistened in his eye.

The Jackson Times, April 11, 1985, page 1

Horse Show

BHS Football boosters Horse Show

It’s spring once more!  Time to get the horses out of the bam and bring them to the Breathitt High Football field on May 3 and 4th for the 15th annual Breathitt Horse Show.  If you don’t have a horse, it’s a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the pretty horses and watch them do their thing!

The annual show is sponsored by the Breathitt County Football Boosters Club, and all proceeds go to the football program at BHS.  Admission this year is $2.00 for adults and 1.00 for students.

Even if you don’t think you would like a horse show, it’s for a good cause, so come on anyway!

The Boosters Club Horse Show is fastly becoming one of the best shows in Eastern Kentucky.  This year’s prizes will be worth over $4,000.00 to participants, which features the First National Bank $500 Walking Horse Stake and the Pedigree Associates of Lexington $500 Five-Gaited Stake.  The Saddle Horse judge on Saturday night is Mr. Bill Wise from Danville.  Ky.  Mr. Wise has judged shows worldwide and has himself shown many world champions.

Showtime is 7 p.m. on Friday night, May 3rd, and 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 4; come and enjoy the fun!

The Jackson Times, April 25, 1985, page 12

The Football Fair

Breathitt boosters to stage ‘Football Fair’

The Breathitt High Football Boosters Club will sponsor a ‘‘Football Fair” on Saturday, May 25.

Starting at 2 p.m. and going ‘‘until everybody leaves”, the event will feature a Lift-A-Thon in which people will get sponsors to pay so much for each pound they can lift.

For grade school students, there will be a punt, pass and kick contest.  Trophies will be awarded for first and second places in each age group.  Age categories are 8 and 9-year-olds, 10 and 11, 12, and 13, and 14 and older.  There is no entry fee for this contest.

Probably the most popular activity for students will be the dunking booth, which will feature some of the coaches, school personnel, and boosters.  Everyone is invited to try to dunk their favorite or not-so-favorite person.

A pig roast and concessions will round out the afternoon of fun and games.  And Breathitt High football team will reap all the benefits.  Coach Mike Holcomb said.  Holcomb said he invites everyone to come out for the fun and to show support for the team.

The Jackson Times, May 16, 1985, page 30

Breathitt High ‘Football Fair’ a success

The Football Booster had something new for Breathitt Countians recently.  They called it a “Football Fair,” and from all indications, it was a great success.

It was complete with competitive events, good food, fellowship, and fun for all.

The purpose of the fair was to provide an interesting event for the community and to raise money for the football program.  It was successful at doing both.

Coach Holcomb said he was well pleased with the event and thought the community supported it well.  “The event was so successful,” he said, “we’re already planning for a bigger and better one next year.”

Some of the scheduled activities included punt-pass-kick competition, a dunking booth, a lift-a-thon, and a roasted pig from which delicious, barbecued sandwiches were made.  The pig for the pig roast was donated by Doug Allen and Ernie Deaton.

The main event of the day was the Lift-A-Thon.  Football players went into the community and secured sponsors for the amount they lifted in the squat, bench, and deadlift.

The fun event of the day was the dunking booth that featured the coaches, some of the teachers, and umpires.

The fair scheduled something for everybody.  The punt-pass-kick contest was for elementary school kids.  About 30 from all over the county participated.  The winner was determined by the number of feet a participant could punt, pass, or kick the football.  The winner in the amount collected was Steve Hollon, who contributed $447.10.  “He hustled hard.  I was proud of him,” said coach Holcomb.

Holcomb said Steve had several people sponsoring him.

The players also competed for first place in their respective weight divisions.  Winners received trophies.  All team members who participated received a T-shirt.

Many people in the community turned out to watch the first football fair in the county.  Since the contest was so popular with the contestants and participants, the boosters club thinks it will likely become an annual event.

The Jackson Times, June 6, 1985, page 21

New Superintendent Hired

County schools have new chief

By D.S. Smith

A new era for Breathitt County schools began last week when the board of education hired its first superintendent to come from outside the county.

Alex Browning, a 46-year-old native of Lee County but who has lived away for all of his adult life, was hired by a unanimous vote in a special called board meeting on Wednesday, June 26.

Browning, a self-described “briar who wanted to come home,” was chosen from a beginning field of 26 applicants, partly because of his mountain heritage, board member Jay Watts said.

Watts and board member Billie Marshall, who traveled extensively researching the final applicants, said Browning’s familiarity with the area, complemented by his knowledge and experience in what is happening in education elsewhere, made him the perfect choice for the Breathitt County school system.

Browning comes directly from Centerville City Schools, in a suburb near Dayton, Ohio, where he was until June 30 director of pupil services.  Centerville Schools are among the top academically ranked schools in the nation.

The new superintendent, who assumed the position Monday, has an outstanding academic record of his own.  Browning left his family home near Tallega in Lee County around the age of 12 to attend Buckhorn boarding school.  Graduating from high school at a younger age than most.  Browning attained his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Morehead State University by 1962.  He has since attained certification in school psychology and certification in administration and school superintendency from Ohio State University and Wright State University, respectively.  His cumulative grade point average for undergraduate and graduate work barely falls short of a perfect 4.0.

Browning’s mother, who, along with his sister, accompanied him to the board meeting last week, described her son as hard-working and dedicated to education to the point of never having married.

Browning’s apparently close family ties were, in fact, the reason he left Kentucky after college to join his parents in Ohio and to work to help put his sister through college.

But Browning said he has always wanted to come home.  And at the meeting last week, he said, “It’s good to be home.”

The meeting began with an executive session between Browning and the board to iron out the final details in his contract.

Although it had been rumored around town extensively throughout the day that Browning had been chosen, the board would not confirm it until after the 38-minute closed session.

As the board returned to the cafeteria meeting room from the administration office, Browning and his family were visible outside the window, creating some excitement among the audience of about 30, made up mostly of teachers and school personnel.  A considerably larger number had turned out for the board meeting the previous week when it was expected the announcement would be made.

Upon Marshall’s motion to hire Browning and the board’s unanimous approval, board chairman Roy Gabbard said, “Go get your superintendent.”

Browning seemingly established an instant rapport with his audience, leading Watts to say later that Browning “is the best communicator I’ve ever seen.”

The new superintendent told the group a little about his background in Lee County and riding the train to school in Buckhorn and about his experiences in education.  And he told the group some of the things he feels are important in education.

Listing cleanliness first, Browning maintained that clean schools and good health practices lead to good mental attitudes.  Good discipline to him, he said, is having fewer rules but ones you stick to consistently.

To challenge students academically, a school must “agitate” them to some degree, the administrator said.  To help them enjoy school and get the most out of it, he said, takes providing activities in which they can become involved.  And, maybe the most important aspect Browning said is building students’ self-confidence.  “It isn’t so much what they’ve learned; it’s knowing they can do it out there (in society),” he said.

Browning said his goal for Breathitt County Schools is to “pick up where we are and go from there.”

The board granted Browning a three-year contract because, Marshall said, it takes one year to learn the system, another to begin making changes, and a third for those changes to be noticeable.

The most frequently heard adjectives describing Browning after the meeting were “energetic” and “impressive.”

He began directing those energies toward the Breathitt County Schools on Monday, July 1.

The Jackson Times, July 4, 1985, page 1

Field Renovations

BHS field has major renovation for fall

It may be hard to think about football when the temperature daily approaches the 90 degrees or higher mark.  Take heart, though!  It won’t be long before those temperatures will start dropping, and the Bobcats will be on the gridiron in full uniform, facing their first 1985 competition.

When they do face that competition, they’ll do so on a completely renovated field.

Right after the spring horse show, the field got a complete facelift.  It was raised in the middle so that now it has excellent drainage.  Too, new topsoil was brought in, fertilizer was spread, and the ground was rolled to eliminate potholes.  When all that was done, it was seeded and watered.

Now the field has a turf equal to almost any in the state.

“We are indebted to Homer Johnson for getting the job done,” said Coach Mike Holcomb.  It seems that Johnson, seeing the need, took the task upon himself, solicited some help, and supervised the project.

Consequently, the Bobcats have a field on which to practice and play that they, as well as the entire county, can be proud of.

Halcomb said he and his boys were extremely pleased with the final results.  He said it certainly would contribute to the team’s enthusiasm for football.

The school board has brought a new lawn mower to help maintain the field in top condition.

“By the time football season rolls around, the field will be ready to take the kind of wear it will have to face this fall,” concluded Holcomb.

The Jackson Times, July 11, 1985, page 13

Football boosters club signs Supt. Browning

Alex Browning, the new Breathitt County Schools Superintendent, assumed his duties on Monday, July 1.  And while his first official act last week was not that shown in the adjacent picture, he was asking about the local booster organizations and their activities within the Breathitt system. While Supt. Browning did not indicate any particular preference in these volunteer organizations, he was very quick to present his $100 check for membership in the BOBCAT 100 Football Boosters Club.

While this club has been existent for only a short time their goal of 100 persons who will contribute $100 per year to help the Bobcat footballers in their guest for the necessary competitive edge in this sport. While they are now approaching their goal of 100, they would be pleased to have every sports fan’s help in reaching this goal and the financial assistance it would provide to the BHS football program.

In accepting his membership check from Supt. Browning, Dave Windom- the club president, was happy to welcome Supt. Browning to Breathitt County, the school system, and to the Boosters Club.  Should you be interested in joining this elite group you may contact Dave Windom.

The Jackson Times, July 11, 1985, page 13

Practice

Breathitt Bobcats open football practice Monday

The football field is in top shape.  The schedule is out now, and everything is pointing toward another exciting B.H.S. football year.

Coach Holcomb said earlier this week that his players are anxious to get the season underway.  “And I am, too, for that matter,” he added with a smile.  It will all get started on Monday- at least for the players.  They’re reporting to practice Monday at 6:00 p.m.

Holcomb said he and his players were looking forward to the year, which they all expect to be a good one.

Missing from last season will be five seniors who graduated.  Back in gear this year will be 14 seniors adding experience to the team.

Holcomb said all of the varsity will be working out starting Monday and that all incoming freshmen are more than welcome.  He stressed that he would like very much for all incoming freshmen who can get in to be present for the beginning practice sessions.

You will notice a couple of changes in the schedule for this season.  Hazard, who has been missing, has returned to the schedule for a game on September 27th at Hazard.  In addition to this change is the arrival of a new foe for the Bobcats.  Rowan County is scheduled for September 13th at Rowan County.

The annual Honey Bowl game this season brings Johnson Central to Breathitt Coliseum this year in a rivalry that has been growing between the two schools.

The Jackson Times, July 18, 1985, page 20

Football Camp

The Bobcat footballers have returned from camp at Millersburg Military School and are getting ready for their opener August 23rd against Morgan County while the rest of the area school are focusing their attention to the start of school. Breathitt of course is the only area school with a football team on the high school scene…

While the temperature is rising outside the sports activity is cooling before school. Fall sports, other than Breathitt High, are in limbo.

GET YOUR BREATHITT FOOTBALL SEASON TICKETS NOW and be ready for the gridiron pleasures you will remember.

The Jackson Times, August 15, 1985, page 15

Boosters Scandal

A little more than a week before the first football game of 1985, news of an arraignment in Breathitt District Court shocked the community and many members of the Breathitt High School 100 Club. Kentucky State Police Detective Orland Noble, Jr. arrested and charged David Windom, age 53, with failure to make required disposition of property after an investigation into donated funds.

BHS football booster charged with improper use of funds

Thursday, August 15, 1985, a Breathitt County football booster club member was arraigned before District Court Judge James H. Noble on 13 counts of theft by failure to make required disposition of property.

The defendant, Dave Windon, 53, of Jackson, entered a plea of not guilty to all 13 counts, which involved $1,500 in football booster funds allegedly misused.  The money was alleged to be donations collected for Breathitt County Bobcats 100 Club, but the defendant allegedly failed to “credit same to said club.”

The warrant that charged Windon was obtained by KSP Det. Orlando Noble, Jr., the officer who investigated the alleged misuse of the Bobcats 100 clubs’ football funds.

According to the warrant, issued August 12, 1985, the funds in question were collected over a period of more than 10 months. The warrant alleges: October 1,1984-two checks in the amount of $200 and $100; October 13, one check in the amount of $100; October 23, two checks in the amount of $100 each; June 1,1985, one check in the amount of $100; June 25, 1985, two checks in the amount of $200 and $100; July 22, three checks in the amount of $100 each; August 8, two checks in the amount of $100 each.

The District Court docket sheet for August 15, gave no preliminary hearing date of the case because the defendant was given time to hire an attorney.  It is also reported the case is undergoing further investigation.

Bond, according to the warrant, was set at $12,500 cash or $25,000 property.  Windon is reported to be free on bond awaiting preliminary hearing in District Court.

The Jackson Times, August 22, 1985, page 1

The District Court found probable cause to bind the case over to the Breathitt County Grand Jury for a possible indictment. On November 8, 1985, the Grand Jury returned indictments against six people, including a two-count indictment against Windom. Circuit Judge Judge Larry Miller signed the indictment alleging that Windom “converted money which was the property of the Bobcat 100 Club, to his own use.” The case was scheduled for trial in Breathitt Circuit Court.

The 1985 Season

The summer came to a close, and the Bobcats used one last tune-up opportunity to get ready for the season. On Thursday, August 15, 1985, the Bobcats scrimmaged at their home field.

KICK OFF

Breathitt County Bobcats vs Morgan County Cougars

Friday Nite 8:00 P.M.

The Bobcats will be flexing their muscles Friday night in their season opener when they host Morgan County.

By some estimates, one of Breathitt’s best teams in recent years will be on the gridiron seeking revenge against their 14-0 loss to the Cougars last year.

The coaches will field an experienced team this year, hoping to reverse last season’s record.  Returning will be 14 seniors, ten juniors, and 12 sophomores.  “We’re anxious to get started,” Coach Holcomb pointed out earlier this week.

“We’re ready to play ball,” he stressed.

He said the Cats have been working hard for several weeks now and are eager to put into practice what they’ve learned.  The season is opening basically injury-free.  There have been a few minor accidents along the way, but nothing major.

What best describes the Cats just prior to their season opener?  According to Holcomb, it is an upbeat attitude and eagerness to get the show on the road.  And the feeling among football fans is that it’s going to be a good show come Friday night.

Here are some positions and people to keep an eye on.  Two-year starter Randy Couch will be quarterbacking for the Cats. 

“He’s been working hard, and he’s looking good,” said his coach.  Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 180, Randy is expected to give the Cats good leadership this season.

Sophomore Bobby Busch and freshman Jimmy Dalton will be backing him up.

At offensive ends, look for Dennis Cornett, Jeff Trent, and Chuck Allen.  Cornett and Trent, a junior and senior, respectively, saw a lot of action last year.

Dean Turner, a junior and experienced player, will be at offensive right tackle.  Rich McCune, new in his position, will be at left tackle.  Providing backup support for them will be Steve Hollon.  Other assistance will come from Kyle McKnight, Albert Fugate, and Jeff Johnson.

Two starters from last season will be back at guard.  They’re Steve Caudill and Jimmy Ingram.  Also seeing some action in that position will be Keith Swartzentruber, Jason Hubbard, Darrell Parks, Doug Gross, and Mike Fugate.

John Cable will be doing the honors at center.  He started in that position last year, and that’s one reason Holcomb and his assistants are expecting good things from him.  Porter Henson and Jeff Johnson will provide backup support for him.

Holcomb says he has two excellent fullbacks who are good at blocking and running the football.  In that position, keep an eye on Mike Bailey and Ray Baker.  Roger Montgomery, a sophomore, will also see some action there.

Tailback position will be manned by Joe Henson and Buddy Baker.  They’re both sophomores, and they’ve both had one year experience on varsity.  Look for Chris Swetnam to stand in some for them.

Six of the Cats are tagged as wide receivers.  Holcomb said they all have been working hard in order to improve the team’s passing game.  At that position will be Meredith Howard, Chris Gibson, Eddie Strong, Keith Gribbons, Brendon Miller, and Todd Mitchell.

With three years of experience, Jeff Trent will be handling most of the kicking.  Dennis Cornett and Brendon Miller will be assisting him.

Some players will be going both ways, but basically, the defensive team will be as follows.

Expect Meredith Howard and Steve Caudill at defensive ends.  There also will be Jason Hubbard, Doug Gross, Jimmy Ingram, and Brendon Miller.

“We had three kids that played a lot of football last year,” pointed out Holcomb.

“The three will share two positions.” At tackle, there’ll be Steve Hollon, Dean Turner, and Rich McCune.  Their backup men will be Porter Henson, Jeff Johnson, and Kyle McKnight.

Noseguard will be played by two-year starter William Boggs, and Joe Henson will relieve him some.

The linebacker position was manned last year by two capable sophomores, Dennis Cornett and Mike Bailey.  They’ll be there Friday night.  Holcomb said he was expecting good things from them again this season.  They’ll be backed up by “two excellent sophomores,” as coach Holcomb described them, Roger Montgomery and Chuck Allen.

In the secondary, two returning starters will be back, Ray Baker and Chris Swetnam.  Holcomb added that he was looking to them for good leadership in their position. Others helping out in the secondary will be Chris Gibson.  Keith Couch, Keith Gribbons, Buddy Baker, Bobby Busch, and Todd Mitchell.

Holcomb said he credited the team readiness, both physical and mental, to the team’s willingness to get in and work hard and to his assistants’ excellent help.  Coach Collins has been working with the secondary and offensive backs, explained Holcomb.  Coach Chapman has been concentrating on the defensive line, and coach McKnight has been drilling the freshmen.

The team managers are Larry Turner and Henry Turner.

Holcomb said he was hoping the fans would get behind the team early because fan support plays a major role in a team’s successes, he added.  Action will start at 8:00, and he, the assistants, and all Bobcats would like to see the stands full.

The Jackson Times, August 22, 1985, page 12

Morgan County – August 23, 1985 – Win 52 – 0

Breathitt County Bobcats maul Morgan County Cougars 52-0

The Bobcats’ fans were football-hungry.  They turned out en masse Friday night for the season opener to watch the Cats roll to an easy 52-0 victory over visiting Morgan County.

According to assistant principal Mr. Knarr, over a thousand tickets were sold at the gate.  That did not include season tickets.

Seven players scored touchdowns as the Cats easily dominated the game from start to finish.

Coach Holcomb said he attributed the easy win to the boys’ attitude and their desire for action.  “They had worked so hard for so long they were eager to play,” he stressed.

Besides that, he said he felt everything fell in place for the Cats, from the seniors all the way to the freshmen.

“Above everything else,” he emphasized, “I think our winning was the result of good teamwork.  We don’t have any individual stars.  Everybody got on the field and did his job.  That made the difference.”

Enthusiasm for the game was running high from the very beginning.  The spirit line, backed up by Breathitt’s snappy and colorful band and the flag girls, helped get the adrenalin flowing offensively and defensively.

Characteristic of Breathitt’s excellent defense throughout the game, the Cats inflicted not only a no-yards gain but a loss of two during Morgan’s first possession.  Seemingly, that was an indication of things to follow because Breathitt’s defense not only held the Cougars scoreless, they permitted precious few first downs.  The Cougars gained only 65 yards during the entire game- passed for 35 and ran for 30.

The Bobcats totaled 350 yards rushing and 63 passing.

Finishing with 193 yards on 23 rushes, sophomore tailback Joe Henson led the point parade with scoring runs of 10 and five yards.

Other Bobcat TDs came on a 50-yard interception return by Keith Couch, a 15-yard pass from Randy Couch to Dennis Cornett, a 16-yard pass from Couch to Meredith Howard, a 30-yard run by Buddy Baker, a 3-yard run by Roger Montgomery, and a 27-yard run by Scott Haddix.

Tailback Buddy Baker carried the ball seven times for 109 yards.

Dennis Cornett led the pack in tackles with ten solos and five assists.  Chipping in four solo attacks each were Mike Bailey, Ray Baker, and Dean Turner.  Paul Turner, who is a 3rd-year starter on defense, had a total of four tackles.  Holcomb pointed out that he feels Paul helps give good leadership to the defensive effort, especially putting pressure on the opposing team’s quarterback.

Quarterback Randy Couch completed six of 13 passes for 63 yards.  By contrast, Morgan County’s quarterback completed two of 18 for 36 yards.

Picking up 20 and 55 yards, respectively, for the Cats were freshman Scott Haddix, who ran the ball two times, and Ray Baker, who carried it seven times.

Holcomb said he was well pleased with his offensive front line, who opened up some good holes for the backs.  On that line were players like Dennis Cornett, Dean Turner, Steve Caudill, John Cable, Jim Ingram, Rich McCune, and Jeff Trent.

Trent, by the way, did the kicking for the Cats with another fine performance.

In reference to the quarterback, Randy Couch, Holcomb pointed out that with a year’s experience under his belt.  Couch showed maturity, handled the ball well, and gave the team good leadership.

Friday night was Breathitt High’s night to shine.  Not only did the team perform well, the band did, too.  Under the direction of field commander Lisa Pope, it put on an excellent half-time show.  The band looked good and sounded great.  Thanks to the flag girls for adding extra color.

Having come a long way in recent years under the capable direction of Robert DeHoag, the band can hold its own against any in Kentucky.

Yes, thanks to the team for a good game, the band for a good performance, and to the fans for turning out en masse.  Bee there Friday night for more of the same when the Bobcats host Johnson Central for the Honey Bowl Crown.

The Jackson Times, August 29, 1985, page 10

A Sign

Schoenenberger paints BHS football sign

Want to know when and where the BHS gridiron Cats are playing?

Take a look at the beautiful big schedule on display at the entrance to BHS. It has all the information!

The sign was painted by Laura Ann Schoenenberger, a senior at Breathitt, at the request of the Breathitt County Football Boosters Association.

Mrs. Sue Bailey, President of the club, speaking for all the members said, “We are very proud of the sign, and we commend Laura for the find job she did on it. We hope everyone enjoys having the schedule displayed.”

The Jackson Times, September 5, 1985, page 12

Johnson Central – August 30, 1985 – Win 9 – 0

Honey Bowl: How Sweet It Is

Honey Bowl Action

The Bobcats did their share in the Honey Bowl Friday night to help get the 8th Breathitt County Honey Festival off to a fine start.  In the second straight shutout of their young season, they stung Johnson Centra] with a 9-0 win.

Scoring in front of the most fans that ever turned out for a home game, Mike Bailey ran the Cats’ only touchdown from six yards in the 2nd quarter.  Before the half-time break, Brendon Miller kicked a 24-yard field goal to increase the Bobcats’ lead to 9.

Thanks to some fine defensive play by the Bobcats, Johnson Central was never able to move the ball successfully.  Early in the game, Central had the ball on Breathitt’s one-yard line but was never able to score.

Coach Holcomb said he was very pleased with the defensive team all night.  “There’s no doubt about it,” he said.  “Defense made the difference in the game.”

The defensive line that stood up all night against a powerful Eastern Kentucky team was made up of Paul Turner, Dean Turner, Rich McCune, Steve Hollon, William Boggs, Dennis Cornett, Mike Bailey, Steve Caudill, Ray Baker, Chris Swetnam, Keith Couch, and Chris Gibson.

Johnson Central was not without its good line either.  On one occasion, Breathitt had the ball on Central’s one-yard line and was not able to score.

The second half was characterized by mostly back-and-forth trade-offs.  Both teams made some turnovers.

Joe Henson ran for a touchdown in the second half, but it was called back.  Henson was the leading carrier for the Cats.  He picked up 89 yards on 20 tries.

Buddy Baker rushed for 55 on 13 carries, and Mike Bailey got 52 on three efforts.  Bay Baker ran seven times and gained 25 yards.

In 53 carries, the Cats picked up a total of 226 yards.  In the passing game, quarterback Randy Couch completed 10 of 21 for 128 yards.

Meredith Howard was on the receiving end six times for 103 yards.  Dennis Cornett hung onto two, picking up 20 yards, and Eddie Strong caught one and moved it four yards.

With nine solos and five assists to his credit, Cornett was the leader in the tackle category.  Paul Turner and Chris Swetnam had five solos each, and Steve Hollon had four.  With three solos each were Mike Bailey, Ray Baker, Dean Turner, and Chris Gibson.  Chris also had two interceptions.

Mike Bailey and Dean Turner were credited with one fumble recovery each.  Since this was the Honey Bowl, five Cats left the field with trophies.  Best Defensive Lineman went to Steve Hollon; Best Offensive Lineman went to Steve Caudill.

Dennis Cornett got the Best Defensive Back trophy, and Randy Couch received the one for Best Offensive Back.

Meredith Howard was recognized as the MVP of the game.

The Cats will not be playing on September 6 since that is an open date on their schedule.  Their next six games are away.

 The first of these will be in Rowan County on September 13.

Expressing appreciation for the large crowds that have been attending the games, Holcomb said he, other coaches, players, and school administration encourage fans to keep up their excellent support.

Fan support is especially important for away games, Holcomb stressed.  “It’s easier to win if fans are out there rooting for us,” he added.

Johnson Central          0     0     0     0  –  0

Breathitt County         0     9     0     0  –  9

BC- Mike Bailey 6-yard run (kick failed).

BC- Brendon Miller 24 FG.

The Jackson Times, September 5, 1985, page 11

A New AD

Gabbard new AD at Breathitt County High

Beginning with the ’85-86 school year, Johnny Gabbard accepted the responsibilities of Athletic Director of Breathitt High.

A more accurate description of his responsibilities might be “Athletic Director of Breathitt County Schools” because he’ll be helping with the athletic programs in all the county elementary schools as well as BHS.

In his new role, he’ll be coordinating all the sports at the high school, including girls’ and boys’ basketball, football, track, baseball, girls’ softball, and volleyball, a sport in which the school hopes to have competitive teams in the near future.

As athletic director, Gabbard will help get facilities ready for home games, arrange for travel when the teams are away, secure officials, provide for security at home games, see that visiting teams are hosted well, make sure that tickets are ready for sale, and take care of other details necessary for staging a game.

In addition to all that, he’ll be helping the elementary schools with their athletic programs.  That may include assistance with scheduling, helping principals and coaches keep abreast of new policies, and generally promoting athletics in the county schools.

Gabbard is certainly no stranger to athletics at Breathitt High.  He’s been teaching in the English Department at the school for 15 years.  For 13 years, he’s been involved in sports.  He’s assisted with basketball and football and has been head baseball coach for 13 years.

Presently, his plans are to continue as head baseball coach along with his new responsibilities of athletic director.  This semester, he still has some classroom responsibilities, though that may change later in the school year.

The Jackson Times, September 12, 1985, page 11

Bobcats at Rowan County

A week without a football game has made the Bobcats hungry for some more action.  Word from the players and coaches is that the team is eager for another encounter.

And an encounter there will be when the Cats travel to Rowan County this Friday night for their first game ever with that team.

Rowan County has a large 2-A school with a 1-1 record.  They beat Estill County 36-6 but fell to Bath County 6-3.  Reportedly, Bath has the best football team in the history of its school.

Coach Holcomb said earlier this week that Rowan has a well-coached team, one that’s rich in football history.

He added that he felt the team was ready and eager to resume Friday night play after a week of no competition.  He, the team, and other coaches extend all football fans an invitation to join them at Morehead Friday night when the Cats will be trying for their 3rd straight victory.

They have been working hard since their 9-0 romp over Johnson Central.  In spite of the high temperatures, the Cats have been working hard daily to improve their skills in an effort to represent themselves well, especially in the next six road games.

The Jackson Times, September 12, 1985, page 11

Rowan County – September 13, 1985 – Loss 7 – 14

Rowan County holds off Bobcats

The Bobcats experienced a very disappointing 14-7 loss to Rowan County Friday night, their first of the season.

The Cats seemingly were unable to get momentum going as they had in previous games.  “We were never able to initiate a good drive,” observed Coach Holcomb.

Too, the defense was lacking in some of the sparkle with which it had performed previously.

It was one of those games in which all the breaks seemed to fall in favor of the Vikings.

On the other side of the coin, the Breathitt squad did not bounce back after adversities as it has been known to do.

One of those major “adversities” happened early in the game when Rowan County intercepted the ball and moved ahead to score early in the first quarter.

Midway through the 2nd period, the Bobcats got great field position after they intercepted a pass and took over on the Vikings’ 18.  Mike Bailey and Joe Henson moved the ball to the 4-yard line, but the Cats were unable to get it across the goal line.

Coming back after the midway break, Rowan County initiated a good drive from their 36 and didn’t give up until they scored on a short pass for TD number two.  The kick was good, and they led 14-0.

Thanks to a long pass from quarterback Couch to Meredith Howard, the Bobcats moved the ball to within 10 yards of scoring early in the fourth but could get no closer at that time.

With 3:45 remaining in the game, they took advantage of a turnover and scored on a four-yard TD pass to Dennis Cornett.  The kick was good, narrowing the difference to 14-7.

After Chris Gibson intercepted a long pass, there was a slight hope that the Cats might score again in the remaining two minutes.  They completed a couple of passes and tried one that would have been beautiful had it worked.  But Couch passed off to Eddie Strong, who threw for Meredith Howard.  Alas, it was intercepted, and the game was over.

Coach Holcomb said he was well pleased with the punting of Brendon Miller, who averaged 33 yards a punt.

Dennis Cornett led the team in tackles with ten solos to his credit.  Mike Bailey had seven solos, and six each were recorded for Steve Hollon and Paul Turner.

Randy Couch threw for 99 yards on seven completed passes.

Keith Couch intercepted a pass early in the 2nd quarter.

Friday night, the Bobcats will be at Leslie County for a district game.

At this point, Leslie has a 1-3 record.  That doesn’t tell the whole story, though.  They have played some tough teams.  They have lost to Cawood, Laurel County, and Harlan County.

Coach Holcomb said Leslie is improving weekly.  “Their team will be aggressive and well coached,” he said.

He said he was pleased with the good fan following that went to Morehead Friday night and encourages everyone to keep up the support.

“We’ll need all the help we can get Friday night to put us back on the winning track,” he added.  “I hope our fans will turn out in large numbers.”

The Jackson Times, September 19, 1985, page 16

Leslie County – September 20, 1985 – Loss 7 – 13

Bobcats fall to Eagles in Overtime 13 – 7

A series of penalties, playing errors, and a bit of bad luck took their toll on the Bobcats last Friday night in their game with the Leslie County Eagles.  The Cats came up on the short end 13-7 in overtime in a district contest.

Their morale wasn’t helped any after having the ball within the 10-yard line three times without scoring.  What did boost their spirits, though, was their touchdown and successful kick in the second quarter that put them on top 7-0 with 8:11 remaining in the first half.

On their first successful drive of the game, the Cats started back on their own 15 and didn’t stop until Joe Henson scored on a 4-yard run.  Some good plays along the way included one by John Cable and quarterback Randy Couch.  On the second down of the TD series, Cable opened up the line, and Couch shot through on a keeper for 20 yards.  Then Couch completed a pass for 15 yards, and the ball was on the 50-yard line.

Later, Mike Bailey picked up 21 yards on a good run just before Couch ran for three more.  Following a penalty on the Eagles, the ball was placed on Leslie County’s 8.  From there, Joe picked up four and then four more for the touchdown.  Brendon Miller’s kick was good, and the Breathitt club was jubilant with their 7-point lead.

There was little time for celebration, however, since the Eagles came back from the mid-way break and scored on their 3rd play in the new half.  In a play that took Breathitt’s defense by surprise, Leslie’s Chris Lewis popped through the Cats’ line and ran for a 50-yard touchdown down the right sideline.  Isaac Maggard’s kick was successful, and the score was evened at 7-7, leaving 10:52 in the 3rd period.

After the Eagles scored, Breathitt initiated another good drive from it 40-yard line and, through a series of mostly short runs, moved the ball to within six yards of scoring.  Though the Cats experienced a fumble at that point, they came right back and still played with plenty of heart.

One case at point being an excellent block by Chris Gibson, a block that almost for sure prevented a TD.  Chris made some other fine plays, causing Coach Holcomb to comment that he was well pleased with his performance.

He also said he thought Mike Bailey played a fine game, and he was pleased with the runs Randy Couch got up the middle.

At the end of regulation play, the game was still tied at 7-7.  Breathitt got the ball first in overtime but failed to score, fumbling on fourth down at the 3-yard line.

Bernard Hoskins scored on a 1-yard run in the overtime, clinching the victory for the Eagles.

Friday night, the Bobcats will be playing at Hazard.  This is a renewed rivalry, as the Cats did not play the Bulldogs last year.  “We’ll be playing hard,” stressed Coach Holcomb.  He and the team and the other coaches invite all local football fans to support them Friday night.  The game starts at 8:00.

The Jackson Times, September 26, 1985, page 22

Hazard – September 27, 1985 – Loss 7 – 12

Hazard eases past Bobcats 12-7

With only 44 seconds showing on the clock, the Bobcats came out of the huddle and lined up for what could be the last play of the game and the last chance to turn the game from a loss to a victory.

What unfolded was the most outstanding play of the game.  Randy Couch, the quarterback, took the snap.  As the play unfolded, it was Joe Henson who took off downfield on the left side and pulled in a wobbly pass, broke through the Hazard defensive line, and started downfield, heading for the end zone and a victory for the hungry Bobcats.  He raced across midfield and broke one tackle about the ten-yard line, with the crowd screaming, “Go!  Go!  Go!”

It seemed he was going to take it in for the winning TD, only to be caught from behind on a diving shoestring tackle and brought down on the 3-yard line with the clock reading 0:00.

“Joe gave a complete effort,” said Coach Holcomb.  “He gave it all he had.  He never gave up.”

This tremendous effort by Henson was typical of the whole Bobcat team, who didn’t give up all night.  They seemingly put everything they had into defeating the Bulldogs but came up slightly short.

It was the first time in several years that the Bulldogs have beaten the Bobcats.  The Dogs drew blood first in the 3rd quarter on a 12-yard run up the right side by Sean Turner.  The Bulldogs were aided in the drive by two face-masking penalties by the Bobcats.

The extra point attempt by Rusty Baker was blocked by Todd Mitchell, who did a good job on the special teams all evening.  His prowess came into play again at the end of the third quarter when he blocked a 34-yard field goal attempt.

“Todd did an excellent job for us,” observed Holcomb.  “I was well pleased with his playing.”

One of the big plays of the night came early in the 4th when Dean Turner recovered a fumble on Hazard’s 31-yard line.  From there, Randy completed a 10-yard pass to Keith Gribbins.  Two plays later, Joe Henson had the ball on the 3.  From there, he ran it across to tie the action at 6-6.

Brendon Miller added the extra point with 7:08 left in the game, and the Cats were in control by a slim 7-6.

The determined Bulldogs came right back, took over on their 35, completed a screen pass, and aided again by holding penalties against the Bobcats, began knocking on the Cats’ door again.  From the 12-yard line, quarterback Carl Wallace hit Grant Mobelini in the end zone for what would be the winning touchdown.  The try for the conversion failed, resulting in the final 12-7 score.

Though a successful drive, it was not an easy one for the Dogs.  Making stops along the way were Bobcats Dennis Cornett, Paul Turner, Rich McCune, Meredith Howard, and Chris Swetnam.

The Bobcats were led in tackles by Dennis Cornett, who made 14 of which six were solos.  Steve Hollon had five solos, Mike Bailey four, Ray Baker and Chris Swetnam three, and Meredith Howard had two.

Keith Gribbins, Dean Turner, and William Boggs were credited with a total of four tackles each; Steve Caudill made three, and Keith Couch one. 

Joe Henson carried the ball 18 times for 111 yards.  Buddy Baker picked up 30 on seven efforts, while Randy Couch gained nine on three keepers.  Mike Bailey ran the ball once for four yards.

On a total of 29 carries, the team picked up 144 yards.

Couch completed 7 of 20 passes for a total of 99 yards.

Hazard’s quarterback, Carl Wallace, collected 45 yards on four of 20 completed passes.

Friday night, the Bobcats will travel to Clay County for another district game.  Right now, Clay County’s record is 5-1.  The school has an outstanding quarterback, considered one of the best in the state.  He’s a senior and a four-year starter.

Looking forward to the game, Coach Holcomb stressed, “We have no trouble getting up for Clay County.  It’s going to be an important game for us.  We think we’ll be ready.”

Expressing appreciation for previous fan support, he stated the need for continued support.  “I really hope our fans go with us over there,” he stated.  “We need them.  It means a lot to the boys to know our local people are with them.”

The game will start at 7:30.

The Jackson Times, October 3, 1985, page 19

13 Second to go: So near yet so far

By Joe Henson

Editor’s note: This account of the last 13 seconds of the Breathitt-Hazard football game was recorded in Joe Henson’s journal on Monday in English class.  His teacher submitted this article to The Jackson Times without his knowledge.

There were 13 seconds left in the game.  The score was 12-7; we were behind.  We had the ball on our own 42-yard line.  I knew this would be the last play of the game.  To my surprise, the play was a screen pass to the tailback on the left side.  I was the tailback.  I knew I could win the game.  I had seen many games won with less than 13 seconds on the clock.  I was lined up, thinking about what would happen if the defensive end picked me up.  The ball was snapped; I took off as hard as I could.  I was flying toward the end like I was going to block him, but I stepped around and barely caught a piece of him.

It worked.  The end ran like mad to tackle Randy Couch, our quarterback.  I turned and stopped to wait for the ball.  It was a wobbly pass, a little low, thrown directly to me.  I caught it carefully, with both hands, thinking only of getting to the end zone.  I turned downfield as I yelled, “Go!” a signal for my blockers, a pulling guard, Steve Caudill, and the onside tackle, Rich McCune, to start blocking downfield for me.

My mind was blank.  I saw about four players for Hazard running toward the sideline.  I just took off and wiggled through them.  I didn’t feel anyone touch me.  All I could see was the goal line.  On my way, I saw a man in front of me trying to turn me toward the sideline.  I quickly cut to the middle because he had a good angle to put me out of bounds.  To my surprise, he turned and grabbed my waist.  I couldn’t feel his grasp.  I glanced down and saw him holding me.

Without thinking, I “spinned” around to break free; now I could see the red goal line about 15  yards from me.  I cranked up everything I had and pushed hard.  At the ten, someone grabbed my legs; I stumbled.  I knew I wasn’t there yet.

All I could see was the plane of the end zone and the goalpost.  I hopped with all my strength, trying to drag the defender in with me.  He had a good hold, so he stood up, picked my feet off the ground, and tried to slam my legs to the ground.  I caught my hand on the ground and gave one more push at the goal line.  I held the ball out to cross it.  It was hard to believe I was only 6 inches from the line.

Quickly, I glanced at the clock showing 1 second and two referees in front of me motioning no touchdown.  I also saw Dennis Cornett lying on the ground about 5 yards behind me.  I tried to call time out, but I heard the buzzer sounding at the end of the game.  Tired and weak, I jumped up, surprisingly having plenty of strength from the anger of not scoring.  Nothing was in my mind except that I didn’t make it.

Finally, my head popped, and I could hear the crowd and band.  It put me back in the real world again; my feelings of embarrassment and failure were overwhelming, and I couldn’t see straight.  I really wanted to get away from all the people and just try to figure out how it all happened.  It was impossible.  I knew I would have to face my teammates, and my coaches, and all the crowd at the gate.

The crowd really didn’t matter; it was my team.  I just easily threw the ball toward the official and turned to face my team, the team I had let down.  They couldn’t say much to me.  I had just given them everything I had and more.

You will never go to heaven in a little red canoe ’cause God’s favorite color is Bobcat Blue!

The Jackson Times, October 3, 1985, page 19

Clay County – September 27, 1985 – Loss 6 – 19

Clay County airways topple Bobcats

The Breathitt Bobcats suffered another defeat and lost all hopes of a district title as they fell 196 at the hands of the Clay County Tigers Friday night in a district game.

Clay was led by their fine senior standout quarterback, Sean Pennington, and a couple of good receivers and a strong offensive line to lead an air attack against the Cats.

Clay County got on the board first following a 57-yard drive.  Pennington was able to connect with his receiver in the end zone for a 24-yard TD pass.  Since the extra point was good, the Tigers went on top 7-0.

On their next possession, the Tigers were able to drive 81 yards with the help of some key catches and a Bobcat penalty.

Todd Mitchell continued his excellent play on the special teams by blocking the extra point attempt, leaving the Cats trailing their district rival 13-0 with less than a minute remaining in the first period.

Taking over on their own 32-yard line, the Cats put together one of their longest drives of the evening, getting the ball all the way down to the 1-yard line before the Tigers foiled their attempt at a touchdown.  On their 4th down with three to go, Ray Baker attempted to put it in but fell just inches short of the goal line.

Clay County put together another impressive drive, moving the ball 99 yards to score their 3rd touchdown of the evening.  The key play of this drive was a 58-yard pass from Pennington to Hacker.  The two-point conversion attempt failed, but the host still had a comfortable 19-0 advantage.

Chris Swetnam made a TD-saving tackle early in the 2nd half and later picked off one of Pennington’s passes.  Along with Swetnam’s fine defensive plays was an outstanding performance by linebacker Mike Bailey, who led the defensive effort with 13 tackles.

The only bright spot for the Bobcats came in the 4th quarter.  Following a big gain of 21 yards for quarterback Randy Couch, the Cats were able to move the ball down to the 1-yard line thanks to a good run by Dennis Cornett.  From there, Joe Henson took it in for what was going to be Breathitt’s only points of the evening.

Buddy Baker rushed for 50 yards on 12 carries.  Henson picked up 25 on ten efforts.  Ray Baker gained 14 on four carries, and Mike Bailey rushed for 11 on four.

On his throwing and rushing efforts, Randy Couch accumulated a total of 64 yards.

Though Mike Bailey led in the tackle category with 13, close behind was Dennis Cornett with 12 and one blocked punt.  Steve Swetnam made seven, Steve Hollon six, and four each by Ray Baker, William Boggs, and Steve Caudill.

Coach Holcomb said he felt the Cats played an excellent second half.  “Our kids kept grinding, and that’s what we’re going to have to do in the remaining four games.”

The next of those four remaining games will be with Whitesburg.  Coach Holcomb reminds the public that the game will be today (October 10), not Friday.

The Jackson Times, October 10, 1985, page 12

Whitesburg – October 11, 1985 – Win 28 – 7

On the road again Bobcats win 28-7

“We’re playing tonight like we did at the beginning of the season.” That’s the way one fan described the Bobcats’ action Thursday night in their 28-7 romp over Whitesburg.

Yes, the Cats got back in the winning column and evened their record at 3-3 following three straight losses on the road.  “It was a good overall win for us,” said coach Holcomb.  “We played together well as a team.  The boys worked hard for this one.  I’m proud of them.”

Continuing, he added that the team played with more enthusiasm and aggressiveness than it had in some recent games.

And that aggressiveness paid off early.  On the first day of Breathitt’s first possession, for instance, Buddy Baker ran for what the fans thought at first was an 85-yard touchdown. Alas, the ball was called back.  Flags everywhere.

Anyway, the run was indicative of the Cats’ determination to get in the game early and give every play their best effort.

The Yellow Jackets stopped the Cats on Whitesburg’s 43-yard line on that first possession, but they didn’t do it on the 2nd.  Taking over on their own 20, the Cats began a good, strong drive that didn’t stop until Mike Bailey put it in the end zone with 11:41 left in the second period.  Brendon Miller’s kick was good, and the elated Bobcat team had a 7-0 advantage.

Thanks to some good runs by Joe Henson and Buddy Baker, it took the Cats only eight plays to move the ball 80 yards for that TD.

Their next possession was even better.  On their first and ten, quarterback Couch handed off to Baker on the Cats’ 20.  He charged through the Yellow Jacket line and sped down the right sideline with the Jellow Jackets buzzing in close pursuit.  One brought him down 12 yards short of scoring.  Never mind, though, two plays later, Buddy scored on an eight-yard.  Following Brendon’s successful kick, the Cats enjoyed a 14-0 lead.

That 14-point margin was short-lived, however.  Whitesburg’s outstanding freshman, Charles Matthews, scored on a 95-yard kickoff return.  Danny Benson’s PAT was good, and the Jackets enjoyed their only seven points of the game.

Coming right back on the ensuing play.  Buddy returned the kickoff to Breathitt’s 40-yard line.  Following mostly 4-8 yard gains on a very strong drive, the Cats kept pushing their way right through Whitesburg’s line until they were on their 5. 

From there, Buddy scored again, and Brendon put it straight through the uprights to cushion the Bobcats command 21-7 with 0:31 left in the first half.

The third quarter was mostly swap-outs.  In the 4th, though, Todd Mitchell started putting the icing on the cake when he intercepted a pass, giving the Cats excellent field position on Whitesburg’s 30.  Mike Bailey finished the icing when he scored again on a two-yard run, clinching the team’s third win.

From that point, the Yellow Jackets never played with much spirit.  In fact, their fans practically emptied their bleachers following their fatal turnover to the Cats.

Buddy Baker rushed for 225 yards on 20 carries.

On 12 carries, Henson picked up 101 yards, and Bailey collected 120 on 15 rushes.

Todd Mitchell led the pack in tackles with eight.  Steve Caudill had seven, Dennis Cornett six, William Boggs six, and Steve Hollon with five.

Keith Gribbins made two key interceptions.

The Jackson Times, October 17, 1985, page 13

M. C. Napier – October 18, 1985 – Win 13 – 8

Bobcats invade reservation of Navajoes and win 13-8

The Bobcats got 330 yards rushing Friday night as they blitzed host M.C. Napier 13-8.

Junior Dennis Cornett led the Cats on the ground with seven rushes for 120 yards, including an 87-yard touchdown run in the 4th quarter.  With 4:26 left in the game, he swept right, pushed and pulled his way through Napier’s line, and rushed into the end zone.

It was Cornett’s first time ever to play in the backfield as a varsity player.  Concerning that exciting play, Dennis said at first, he was a bit nervous but never had any doubt about finishing the run after he started.

“At first, I kept telling myself don’t fumble,” he said.  “Then I saw Joe and Ray make a good hole, and I split through it.” As he rushed down the field, he said he dodged No. 21 by cutting left and then zigzagged past other Navajos.  “Near the 20,” he continued, “I saw two other guys.  Somehow, I got a burst of speed and made it on in.”

Thanks to the “burst of speed,” zigzagging, confidence, or whatever, the TD gave the Cats a comfortable 13-0 lead and increased their confidence that they could win the game and improve their record to 4-4.

Any good offensive drives were noticeably lacking in the first half.  The first two quarters were defensive struggles, with neither team scoring.

That changed quickly in the second half, however.  Eager to get some points on the board, the Cats initiated a good drive from their own 38 on their first possession after the break and didn’t stop until they put it across the line with 5:46 left in the 3rd period.  On a 4-yard run, Mike Bailey gave the Cats a 6-0 lead, which Brendon Miller stretched to 7 with his successful kick.

Then came Cornett’s long run and the 13-0 score.

There was less than a minute to go in the game when Napier’s William Hogg scored for the Navajos on a 1-yard run.  The ensuing pass from Johnson was completed to John Prickleson for the final 13-8 score.

Coach Holcomb said he was pleased with the fine team effort that clinched the victory. “I thought we played well,” he added.  “There was a spirit of togetherness that was an important element of our winning.”

He stressed that he thought Joe Henson, Buddy Baker, and Mike Bailey ran well and that they blocked successfully for each other.

At 200 pounds, Dennis Cornett gave the team an added dimension in the back field stressed Holcomb.

Another player that caught the coach’s eye was Chris Swetnam.  “He also did a good job for us in the backfield,” explained Holcomb.

On mostly short runs, Joe Henson picked up 105 yards on 22 carries.  Bailey rushed for 21, Buddy Baker 52, Chris Swetnam 20, and Randy Couch 12.

Steve Hollon and Dennis Cornett led the tackle category with ten each.  Of that number, Steve had five solos and Dennis four plus one interception.  Jason Hubbard also had five solos for a total of seven.  With three solos each were William Boggs, Mike Bailey, and Ray Baker.  Chris Swetnam assisted with six.

The Cats’ best drive of the 1st half happened midway through the 2nd quarter.  With very good field position, they took over on their 45.  Randy picked up five on a keeper; Joe got four yards, making it four and one to go.  The Cats decided to go for it and picked up another first down.

Aided by a 15-yard penalty against Napier, the Cats gradually moved the ball to Napier’s 17-yard line.  From there, Brendon Miller tried unsuccessfully for a field goal.

Friday night, the Cats will be back home for the first of the two remaining games on their schedule.  The last six games have been away.  Holcomb probably expressed the sentiments of the fans when he said, “I hope we never have another schedule that keeps us on the road so long.” He added that he certainly did appreciate the fans who have stuck with the Cats on all the away games.

Friday night, the Cats will entertain Knott Central at their homecoming.  After beating Fleming-Neon last Friday night, the Patriots have a 2-7 record.

The Jackson Times, October 24, 1985, page B14

Knott County – October 25, 1985 – Win 21 – 0

Bobcats bop Knott Central and improve season

Quarterback Randy Couch passed for a total of 112 yards in the homecoming game Friday night to shut out Knott Central 21-0, improving their record to 5-4.

In the third district game of the season, the Bobcats rushed for a total of 259 yards on 46 carries.

Sophomore Buddy Baker led all rushers with 20 carries for 157 yards, including touchdown runs of 4 and 5 yards.  Dennis Cornett scored on a 57-yard pass from Couch, Cornett’s second long run in as many weeks.

After mostly swap-out exercises in the first quarter with no scores, the Cats came back in the 2nd period and posted 14 points.  The first drive started from Knott Central’s 39.  After some good runs by Buddy Baker, the ball was down to the 4-yard line.  From there, he ran it across with 3:56 left in the first half.

That was enough time, though, for Cornett to execute his long run on the Cats’ first possession after Baker’s TQ.  The two-point conversion was good, and the Cats enjoyed a 14-0 advantage with 1:07 left in the first half.

Though there was no score in the 3rd quarter, it was not without its excitement.  Right away, on the 3rd play in the second half, for example, Steve Hollon recovered a fumble for the Cats.  Later, Meredith Howard made a fine tackle, Steve Caudill sacked Knott’s quarterback, and Hollon made a noteworthy block.

In the top of the 4th, the Patriots were moving the ball well.  In fact, they had it down to Breathitt’s 20.  That’s when Chris Swetnam’ intercepted a pass, setting the wheels in motion for Breathitt’s 3rd and last TD.  It only took the Cats 4 1/2 minutes to move the ball 75 yards, spotting it on the Patriots’ 5-yard line.  From there, Baker took it in.  Brendon Miller’s kick was good, and the Cats enjoyed what was to be their final 21-0 lead.

Looking at the game in review, Coach Holcomb said he was well pleased with the offensive line for a well-done job.  He added that he thought Joe Henson did a good job blocking and running.  So did Buddy Baker and Mike Bailey, he stressed.

Quarterback Randy Couch also received words of commendation for passing well, as did Keith Gribbins for a job well done.  Holcomb pointed out that he felt Meredith Howard performed well on defense.

Cornett led the tackles category with 10, of which 7 were solos.  Bailey had 8, Steve Caudill 6, Dean Turner 6, Meredith 5, and 4 each by William Boggs and Steve Hollon.

In addition to Baker’s 157 yards, Joe Henson rushed for 71 and Mike Bailey 16.

Friday night, the Bobcats wind up their season when they host Estill County.

The Jackson Times, October 31, 1985, page 18

Estill County – November 1, 1985 – Win 56 – 0

Bobcats rout Estill 56-0

The Breathitt Bobcats ended their 1985 football season on a  winning note by routing the visiting Estill Co. Engineers 56-0.  Although the Engineers were not as strong as they have been in the previous years, the Bobcats still played an excellent game with an explosive offense that scored eight touchdowns.

The Cats struck three times in the 1st quarter; the first was on a five-yard run by Joe Henson.   Later in the 1st quarter, Randy Couch connected with Meredith Howard for a 58-yard touchdown pass.  Buddy Baker broke loose for a 50-yard score, and at the end of the 1st quarter, the Cats were on top 21-0.

Joe Henson scored again in the second quarter, and the halftime score stood at 28-0. The Cats came back on the field and picked up where they had left off by scoring 14 more points each in the third and fourth quarters, respectively.  The TDs came on an eight-yard run by Buddy Baker, a ten-yard run by Baker, an eight-yard run by Ray Baker, and a four-yard pass from young quarterback Mike Miller to Keith Gribbins.

The Bobcats’ place kicker, Brendon Miller, was a perfect 8-8 on the extra point attempts. This will be a plus for the Cats, having Miller back for next season.

Buddy Baker led the rushing attack for the Cats, carrying the ball 17 times for 178 yards. Joe Henson carried 20 times for 70 yards.  The Bobcats, as a team, ran the ball 46 times for 393 yards.

The defense kept the Engineers out of the end zone, thus playing an outstanding game and posting another shutout.

Seniors William Boggs & Meredith Howard led the way with eight solo tackles & 2 assists each.  Dennis Cornett chipped in 4 tackles & 4 assists.  Sophomore Chuck Allen picked off a pass on the only interception of the evening.

Coach Holcomb said he was very pleased with the effort his whole team put out Friday night.  After losing some games in the middle of the year, the Cats didn’t get down and wound up with a respectful 6-4 season with many lettermen returning next year.  On that note, Coach Holcomb said he was very proud of his younger players and that they were going to start working hard right now so they can bring the district title home next year.

The dark side of Friday night’s game was that the Bobcats and Coach Holcomb had to say goodbye to 10 seniors.  Seniors Randy Couch, Ray Baker, Steve Hollon, Jimmy Ingram, Meredith Howard, Chris Swetnam, Keith Gribbins, Keith Couch, Steve Caudill, and William Boggs.  The Bobcats will miss these young men next year.

The Jackson Times, November 7, 1985, page 16

Football Banquet

Football Banquet

The Breathitt High School Football team officially wound up the 1985 season Tuesday night with their traditional football banquet.

Emceed by avid Bobcat football fan Sam Sanders, the banquet was a delightful occasion and seemingly an appropriate way to end the ’85 season. Sanders kept the program moving in a jovial spirit with his witty remarks and observations.

Following the delightful meal prepared by Wilma Quicksall and her staff, Supt. Browning expressed his application for the football program. “I want to thank you for the many things you have done off the field that have contributed to the overall improvement in our school,” he said.

He went on to commend the athletes and cheerleaders on their accomplishments and said they were all winners because they tried.

Athletic Director Johnny Gabbard said he was really pleased with the fine season the Cats had, and he had enjoyed following them this year.

The Boosters Club plays an important role in the football program at BHS by raising money to help the Bobcats purchase new equipment. Sue Bailey, president of the club, outlined some of the goals the club will be working on next year.

She said the club is going to try to dress the Cats up by getting them travel shirts for away games, new uniforms, and insignia on the helmets.

Mrs. Bailey went on to present Sam Sanders with a plaque for supporting the Cats.

When she presented manager Larry Turner with a plaque and shirt for a job well done, he received a standing ovation.

In additional remarks, Bailey pointed out that some new weights and other weightlifting equipment had been ordered, and it is expected to arrive any day.

In his remarks, Coach Holcomb thanked all the people who contributed to the program in one way or another. “It takes the whole community working together to maintain a good program,” he stated.

He added that he was pleased with the effort his prayers gave him all year and appreciated their not getting down when the going got tough.

No individual awards were given because Holcomb believes that football is a team game, and everyone works together to win. Each of the seniors was given a plaque with his personal accomplishments on it.

The seniors included Randy Couch, Ray Baker, Steve Hollon, Jimmy Ingram, Meredith Howard, Chris Swetnam, Keith Gribbins, Steve Caudill, William Boggs, and Keith Couch.

The football players voted to recognize three players for their contributions to the team.

They gave the 110 percent award to sophomore Joe Henson, who ended the season with over 1100 yards in total offense.

The leadership trophy went to senior quarterback Randy Couch for his leadership on and off the field.

Dennis Cornett received the MVP trophy. Holcomb had high praise for his young linebacker, saying he always got to the football.

Appreciation was expressed to the cheerleaders for their contributions to the ’85 season.

The Bobcats had a 6-4 season.

The Jackson Times, November 21, 1985, page 15

CHANGING SEASONS

Just as fall winds down and winter approaches here in Kentucky, so do the seasons for sports change.  Pictures in today’s issue show the recognition extended to the young men of Breathitt County High School.  Football equipment has been put away until next fall, but the locker rooms have opened for the winter sport of basketball in these hills.

While the football sport at Breathitt High has grown, especially during this just-finished season, the waiting throngs, more attuned to basketball, are ready to follow the bouncing round ball and its hopeful path into a round metal goal with a net sack hanging down.

As sure as time goes by, so do things change.  More heroes are hoisted onto the pedestal.  More joy, and, yes, sorrow for what might have been.  At Breathitt, there is a new coach, one Glenn Napier, new idols to be established, and more names that will become household words to the roundball fanatics.

In addition to the introduction of the 1985-86 version of the Bobcats, the rest of the schools in our circulation area have been involved in basketball action due to the fact there are no other football-playing teams.  Those schools have been permitted to start their basketball season earlier than any football-playing schools.

On the junior high level and grade school plateau, all of the schools in the Breathitt County area field basketball teams.  All boast of boys and girls.  Their parents, relatives, and all fans support their favorites, and like them, we wish them the best in victory and the growing phase of learning even when suffering a loss.

Be good sports, attend your own schools’ activities and others who will surely give you many hours of pleasure during the cold winter months, and the inevitable spring that gives us a new life and the warm winds to make us glad that times change just as do the seasons of the year and the sports activities of each season.

The Jackson Times, November 28, 1985, page 21

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Ten seniors graduated from the Breathit Football program in 1985. They all expressed their disappointment at missing the playoffs. Close losses to Rowan, Leslie, Hazard, and Clay County (all away games) remained in their memories for decades.

“We were so close,” a Junior on the 1985 team said. “One or two things changed our whole year. We were a good team, and we knew it, but sometimes we let penalties and bad choices beat us.”

Breathitt closed the year with a four-game winning streak and soundly outscored their opponents in the last stretch of the season by a 118-15 margin. There was renewed hope for 1986, but the Bobcats would have to work hard to replace the talent they graduated. Coach Holcomb told his players he was “tired of losing,” and they took his word to heart.

They went back to the weight room, and the 1986 season started in the minds of the team about a week after the final game of the 1985 season. They had scores to settle from 1985, and settle them they would.

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© 2023 Stephen D. Bowling