By Stephen D. Bowling

After an off-season break, we restart the Fifty Years of Football series with a look at the 1992 season, which brought tough matchups and a major addition to the BHS Football program.

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The annual announcement of the first Breathitt High School Football Boosters meeting was the unofficial start of every football season. The year 1992 was no different. The announcement appeared in the February 13 edition of The Jackson Times, and the meeting was set for February 17. Officer elections usually dominated the first meeting, but in 1992, there was something bigger ahead for the parent-based support group. Coach Holcomb and the Breathitt High School football team needed more room.

While the Boosters met and planned, the 1992 team prepared for the season.

Early Hard Work

Breathitt football team hard at work

By Jack Niece

Even though it is in the middle of winter, the BHS football team has been hard at it in the weight room lately.  According to Coach Holcomb, the team’s main goal is to be bigger, faster, and stronger for the upcoming football season.

Holcomb feels the players are working hard toward the upcoming season, but he wants them to realize there are several months of preparation for the next season.

An added dimension to the weight program is the return of weightlifting competition between area schools.  Breathitt competed in this a few years in the past, but this will be the first time in a while.

Saturday, the Breathitt football team will compete against several schools in “The King of the Mountains” competition at Knott County Central Gym (Old Hindman Gym).  Everyone is invited to watch the boys lift with the competition starting at 10:30 a.m.

The public is invited to watch the football players work out on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at the stadium from 3:15 to 5:30, according to Coach Holcomb.

Breathitt Football Boosters and players are selling tickets on two sets of State Basketball Tournament tickets.  Tickets at the middle arena are $1.00.  The drawing will be at halftime of the basketball regional final game on March 17 at BHS Coliseum.

The Jackson Times, February 27, 1992, page 8

King of The Mountains Competition

Bobcats perform well in weightlifting competition

By Jack Niece

Coach Holcomb took his football team to Knott Central Saturday to compete in the King of the Mountain Weightlifting Contest.  And the results were good.

The Bobcats brought home 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th places in their respective categories.

“I was well pleased with our results,” stated Holcomb.  “Our team continues to improve, and I expect nothing but more of the same in the future,” he continued.

Considering 280 participated in the King of the Mountain Competition, Holcomb stressed that the Bobcats performed extremely well.

Breathitt finished 5th out of 14 teams.

Included in the competition were the bench press, squat, deadlift, and power clean.

Breathitt’s top five finished as follows:

146-155 category George Chapman finished 3rd.  His bench was 190, squat 320, deadlift 370, and power clean 170.

156-165 division: Greg Gross finished 5th.  His bench was 210, squat 310, deadlift 380, and power clean 210.

176-185 division: Chris Gillium finished 1st.  His bench was 260, squat 350, deadlift 440, and power clean 180.  Chris also won the strongest pound-for-pound trophy in the 185-pound division.

206-220 division: Shane Carpenter was in 4th place.  His bench was 200, squat 350, deadlift 430, and power clean 190.

The Jackson Times, March 5, 1992, page 21

Boosters Need $80,000

$80,000 fund drive starts for BHS stadium addition

JACKSON, KY.- Noting that the athletic facilities at Breathitt County High School have fallen behind the quality of those belonging to other schools in the area, an $80,000 fundraiser to build a stadium addition was kicked off in the community Tuesday morning.

Superintendent of Schools Hargus Rogers and BHS football coach Mike Holcomb unveiled plans for the proposed addition before about 30 local business leaders, representing a cross-section of the community.

The proposed 2,500 square foot block building will house a state-of-the-art 40 x 26 weight room, a coach’s office, which measures 11 x 16, a spacious locker room, space for athletes to watch video films and conduct other studies, a storage area for the Booster Club, and a 12 x 26 equipment room.

The coach and superintendent were quick to point out that these modern facilities, designs for which were donated courtesy of Associate Designer, Inc., of Lexington, will be utilized by every athletic department at the high school as well as the general public.

Rogers explained that the football program has outgrown its facilities.  “Breathitt used to be out front, but now its facilities have fallen behind compared to other schools in the vicinity.  We need to catch up with the schools which have zipped past us.”

He anticipates that ground will be broken on the stadium addition this spring, and some committees for the fundraiser were appointed at Tuesday’s meeting.

As the school system has exhausted its allocation of stale building funds and the proposed structure is of a magnitude far beyond the financial resources of the Booster Club, the building must be financed with the involvement of the entire community.

You may pledge or donate to the BHS Stadium Addition by contacting the Breathitt County Football Booster Club, Burt Bellamy at Citizens Bank, Lester Smith at First National Bank, or any member of the Finance Committee.

Rogers explained that the Breathitt Boosters Club, which has “done so much for the football program especially,” will be working hard to help raise the $80,000, which is the amount needed to build an addition to the already existing stadium.

The superintendent further explained that the school system just doesn’t have the money because it will receive no new funds this year through the Kentucky Education Reform Act (KERA).

“We’ll get just what we received last year, nothing more,” he said to the group, which had already indicated with its comments that they favored trying to raise the money “even in tough times.”

Rogers and board member Victor Jones, who was present, pointed out that when you build something, you have to have approval from the State Dept. of Education, and it was necessary to come to the community for help because the school system already has two major projects underway – the expansion of Marie Roberts Elementary and construction of a new bus garage, besides the two-year-old construction of Highland-Turner School.

“We’ve pushed our indebtedness to the limit,” Jones added.

Holcomb, who has been head Bobcat mentor for nine years, was joined by other sports fans who’ve noted how much nicer the athletic facilities of other schools Breathitt plays. “You almost get ashamed when they come to your school to play,” said another fan.

The coach talked of his football players having to dress in cramped quarters, among other inconveniences.  “We just don’t have enough room,” he said.  He thought it would be wonderful to have weight-lifting facilities for all the students, not just players, and “the weight-lifting room would be available for other people in the community,” he continued enthusiastically.

Holcomb has been coaching here for eleven years, “and I love it,” he added.  His football teams have enjoyed great success in recent years, and the sport has grown in popularity since Breathitt is a team to be reckoned with on the gridiron.

Dwight Carpenter, Booster Club President, was enthusiastic about the project and pledged the Boosters would do everything possible to help raise the needed funds.  He said the Boosters would be willing even to help build the block structure.

Committees named at the meeting, as follows: Publicity – Louise Hatmaker, chairman, Seldon Short of Vancleve Radio (Board Member), Coach Holcomb, and someone from the Jackson radio station.

Finance – Burt Bellamy, chairman, Dwight Carpenter, Coach Holcomb, Mike Stidham, Brenda Miller (Booster Club treasurer), and Mayor Lester Smith.

Construction – Hargus Rogers, chairman, Doug Rose, Doug Allen, Marcus Mullins, Edgar Raleigh, Victor Jones, and Jackie Fugate.

Many indicated their willingness to do actual work on the project.  Some suggested getting someone local to build the structure and take donations of labor or materials to keep down the cost.

It is hoped many former Breathitt Countians, some old Bobcats too, will be giving and pledging to this project.  Next week, The Jackson Times will start running a coupon each week that can be clipped and mailed in to support the BHS Stadium Addition.  Watch for more details and the coupon next week in The Jackson Times.

The Jackson Times, March 12, 1992, pages 1 and 4

Lift-A-Thon Announced

BHS Lift-A-Thon May 2

Breathitt High’s annual lift-a-thon is fast approaching.  In fact, it’s less than a month away.  May 2 is the date, and Wal-Mart is the place.

Wal-Mart will be allowing the matching grant again this year, and Little Caesars Pizza will be providing a T-shirt for all lifters.

Coach Holcomb said earlier this week that his team is excited about this annual weightlifting event.

The Bobcats have been working hard in the past several months in preparation for the contest.

The lift-a-thon will give them an opportunity to showcase their improvements on the weights this winter.

The Cats will be looking for sponsors since the lift-a-thon is a fund-raising event.  This is an opportunity for football fans to get behind one or more players by pledging an amount per pound lifted.

Anyone who would like to become a supporter can contact Coach Holcomb or any football player.

The Jackson Times, April 9, 1992, page 10

Addition Making Progress

Stadium Drive ‘going good’

Breathitt football coach Mike Holcomb said today that the fund drive to raise $80,000 to expand the football stadium is “going good,” and we appreciate every donation that’s been made.  “I want the people to know that we appreciate every dollar from everyone, anywhere,” he added.

Coach Holcomb pointed out that many people have asked “how much” to give to accommodate them.  He said a level of giving has been established so that anyone who gives can decide which “club” they want to join.  He listed these clubs as follows:

$1.00 to $99-Fan Club.

$100 to $499 – Bobcat Club.

$500 to $999 – Varsity Club.

$1,000 to $4,999- All-State Club.

$5,000 to $10,000 – All American.

$10,000 – Up – Super Bobcat Club.

Holcomb explained that the people in these various clubs will be honored by having their names listed on a permanent wall hanging in the new Stadium addition when it’s completed.

Holcomb said some gifts have been made in materials and labor, which are most welcome and expected to help reduce the total amount needed.

The Bobcat mentor called attention to the weekly coupon in this newspaper’s sports section and said he was very gratified with the results to date, “but we’re not nearly up to our mark,” he added.

“I hope people will continue to use this coupon to mail in gifts,” Holcomb stated.  He noted that starting today, the coupon includes a list of the various clubs donors may join, depending on what amount they want to contribute to the project.

The coach also pointed out that donations are being accepted at either Jackson bank, The First National Bank, or Citizens Bank & Trust Co.

The Jackson Times, April 23, 1992, page 3

Lift-A-Thon Results

Raising funds for football program…

Fifty-one make Lift-A-Thon successful

Nearly any way one looks at it, the football Lift-A-Thon was a fine success Saturday.  Coach Mike Holcomb said he was well pleased with the results and wanted to express appreciation to all who helped make it successful.

Fifty-one boys lifted.  He stressed that “a good time was had by all.”  The weather cooperated beautifully, as did the people who helped make the lift-a-thon fun and interesting to watch.

On behalf of the boosters and all the people in the county who support the football program and/or in any way make it possible, Holcomb said he wanted to express his appreciation.

The lift-a-thon was a fundraiser for the football program.  In terms of money raised, it was considered a successful event.  “Thanks,” said the football players to those who sponsored them in the weightlifting contest.

The winners were as follows:

139 below division- Mike Lively.  Benched 130, squat 260.  deadlift, 320.  Total: 710.

140-152 division- Jamin Noble.  Benched 180, squat 250, deadlift 320.  Total: 750.

153-165 division- George Chapman.  Benched 200, squat 320, deadlift 430.  Total: 950.

166-177 division- Greg Gross.  Benched 230, squat 340, deadlift 410.  Total: 980.

178-189 division- Latt Harmon.  Benched 260, squat 340, deadlift 420.  Total: 1020.

190-202 division- Chris Gillum.  Benched 275, squat 400, deadlift 450.  Total: 1125.

203-215 division- Shane Carpenter.  Benched 210, squad 380, deadlift 480.  Total: 1070.

216-130 division- Adam Steuerwald.  Benched 240, squat 370, deadlift 420.  Total: 1030.

231 up division- Hershel Fugate.  Benched 240, squat 420, deadlift 430.  Total: 1190.

The Jackson Times, May 14, 1992, page A17

Community Assistance

Buying blocks of building suggested as fundraiser

Committee eager to get new football facility started

By Jack Niece

Superintendent Hargus Rogers likely expressed the sentiments of the committee interested in building the new football workout room when he stated in a recent meeting, “We’re anxious to get ground broken so we can see something happening.”

Everybody seemed eager to get the show on the road.  Rogers stated that all the paperwork that Frankfort requires has been sent in, and so far as he knows, there is no problem with any of it.  “We have to make sure everything is legal,” he added.  “Every i must be dotted and every t crossed,” he continued.

Present at the meeting was Bill Malisaid, an architect with Associate Designers, who has drawn up plans for the building.  He said everything was looking good from their angle, and he thought construction could begin in the very near future.

He said an architect would be involved during the building process to ensure everything is done according to specifications.  Malisaid assured the committee that the football addition would be a “good functional building.”

Coach Holcomb pointed out again the need for the addition, stating that the old structure needed repairs.

He further explained that when his Bobcats are at other football facilities for away games, they are hosted in facilities far better than Breathitt can offer their guests.  He said he was afraid football teams often left Breathitt with a negative feeling rather than a positive.  “We want to change this,” he stated.  “We want people leaving Breathitt with a positive feeling about our facilities.”

Football Boosters Treasurer Brenda Miller gave a financial report pointing out that the present “kitty” is meager.  She stressed that there is some money to begin, but much more is needed.

During the discussion of various fundraising projects, Louise Hatmaker presented the idea of letting all who would buy a building block for the building.  She stressed that this would let practically everybody in the county get involved in a small way in completing the building.  She explained that the Times would donate certificates that could be awarded to each person who contributed a block.

The idea caught on.  There seemed to be considerable interest in it.  A couple of men on the committee were asked to determine roughly how many blocks would be needed to complete the building and the cost per block.

It was generally agreed that interest would be ignited once the building started, and it would be easier to get donations.

In the meantime, Rogers stated he thought the civic clubs in the community would be making contributions.

Ed Raleigh pointed out that the school board has had trouble maintaining the present building.  He said the building has no insulation, so water pipes are always freezing.  He added that the building wasn’t of the best quality and was hard to keep up.

The school is hoping to get quality labor donated.  The board can provide some labor from our staff of electricians, plumbers, carpenters, etc.  However, they may not have time to do all the work.  Therefore, the board is looking for anyone in the county with a talent they would like to donate to the building.  If interested, contact Hargus Rogers at the Breathitt Board of Education.

School Board Chairman, Kelly Noble, Jr. said he would donate a beef that the boosters’ club could use as a fundraiser.

The committee met for breakfast at 7:30 at Breathitt High’s home economics room.  Enjoying the good “country” breakfast as it discussed the building project, the committee appeared really eager to get on with the building and left with an upbeat feeling about it.  The group will meet again on May 29 to continue plans to make the much-needed facility a reality as soon as possible.

The Jackson Times, May 21, 1992, page 19

Adding On

Football addition committee to meet tomorrow at Breathitt

Breathitt’s Football Addition Building Committee will meet Friday, May 29, at 1l:30 in the Breathitt High Cafeteria.  Lunch will be served.

Anyone involved in any way in this building project are invited, in fact encouraged, to attend this meeting. Committee reports will be given, and an update on construction and/or plans will be presented.

Coach Holcomb reports that action is progressing on the new addition, but much more remains to be done. He stated that it is important for the community at large and especially the Football Addition Building Committee to get behind the construction project He stressed that it was important for all interested persons to be present at this noon meeting Friday which will be in the home economics room adjacent to the cafeteria.

The Jackson Times, May 28, 1992, page 13

Booster Working Hard to Build

Fundraising projects discussed…

Booster Club moves ahead on stadium addition project

When the new football facility committee met last week, the need that seemed uppermost on everyone’s mind was to get some action going on the construction of the football stadium addition.

“We want something happening there by next week if possible,” stated Hargus Rogers, Breathitt County School Superintendent.

The need for public involvement was stressed again.  It was pointed out with renewed emphasis that once the general public sees some action, they will get behind the project, estimated to cost $80,000.

The committee hopes that much labor on the new 41 x 56 building can be donated.  Of course, that will help cut down on expenses.

The addition will be for a weight room that the public and the football program can use. 

Jackie Fugate promised to dig the footers to contribute to the much-needed facility.  Others have made commitments, too.  The moving of one utility pole by Ky. Power Co. was said to be holding up the start of construction.

It was generally agreed that the committee needs to hire a professional contractor to get the building up to ground level.  From there on, hopefully, much of the labor can be donated.

It was further agreed that there needs to be a general supervisor who knows construction and is skilled in coordinating volunteer labor.

Associate Designers, who drew up plans for the building at no cost, stated they would have an architect closely check the building to ensure the wiring, plumbing, and general construction met all federal and state requirements.

After a lengthy discussion, it was agreed that the Football Boosters Club would take the initiative to raise money for the building and help secure donated labor.  Vice President Charles Benham and Treasurer Brenda Miller were present at the meeting.

Victor Jones, a school board member and building committee member, said he would donate one year’s school board pay to the proposed facility, and he challenged other school board members to do the same.  He estimated that his donation, which would be reimbursement for attending school board meetings, would amount to roughly $500.  He challenged other board members to meet his donation.

Coach Holcomb stressed the need for football fans to get in their donations.  He stated that along with the need for donated labor, the Boosters’ Club, which is in charge of the project, needs cash to meet necessary expenses.  Anyone wishing to contribute can do so through any football booster member.  Donations can also be accepted at Citizens Bank & Trust Co. or The First National Bank.

The Jackson Times, June 4, 1992, page A10

Weightlifting

Football weightlifting begins

Our temperatures this week may not do much to make one think of football, but that season is fast approaching.

Starting July 6 (Monday), the weightlifting room will be open from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Monday-Thursday.

That’s the word from Coach Holcomb, who said he hoped every football player would take advantage of the open weight room to help get in shape for the fall football season.

Lifting a few weights now, stressed Holcomb, will also help the players get in shape for regular practice starting July 27.

“All football players are encouraged to be present for these workout sessions starting Monday,” stressed Holcomb. He said it was very important for all football players to try to be there.

The Jackson Times, July 2, 1992, page 15

Pike County Bowl

Pike Bowl added to schedule

The big addition to Breathitt High’s football schedule this season is the Pike County Bowl on August 29.

On that date, Belfry will play Rockcastle at 6:05 and Breathitt vs Pikeville at 8:30.

This will be the 8th Annual Pike County Bowl, recognized as one of the more prestigious bowls in the state. Coach Holcomb said he and his team are excited about playing in it.

“We’re really looking forward to it,” he said earlier this week. “We think it is going to be a fine bowl, and we hope all of our fans can go over and enjoy it with us.”

Each player, he said, will receive an award, and an MVP for each game will be selected.

Reportedly, WYMT-TV will carry the game on replay on August 30.

The Jackson Times, July 9, 1992, page 11

Midnight Madness

MIDNIGHT MADNESS AT BREATHITT HIGH

The earliest the Football Bobcats can have contact pad practice is Aug. 1. The Cats are wasting no time to get started. In fact, they plan to be ready to go at 12:01 that night.

It’ll be a midnight practice, and the public is invited.

There’ll be more than just practice. It will be a fun night complete with a cookout at 8:30 on the 31st. The cookout will include hamburgers and hotdogs furnished by the Boosters Club. Other guests are encouraged to bring a side dish of vegetables, salads, or desserts.

That night is also designated as “picture night.”

Sometime during the evening Coach Holcomb will talk to the football parents explaining the football program and highlighting what is expected of their sons.

Practice will start at 11:00 that night. Contact drills will begin at 12:01.

The Jackson Times, July 23, 1992, page A7

Madness A Success

Football season begins…

BHS gridiron groupies get ‘mad at midnight’

From all indications, the Bobcats’ Midnight Madness Practice was a fine success.  Everybody seemed to enjoy it.

Coach Mike Holcomb said, “Our kids had a great time.  We were well pleased with the way everything went.”

So were the parents.  Dorcus Steuerwald, mother of Adam Steuerwald, described the whole event at “exciting” and “neat.”

“I thought the whole evening was exciting,” she stressed and added that it was a new kind of experience for her family.  “I really did enjoy everything – the food, cheerleaders, the fellowship.  I just thought it was a neat idea.”

Linda Hooker thought it was a good idea, too.  She said it brought the community together and helped prepare everyone for the upcoming football season. 

It was an action-packed evening.  Pictures were made at 7 p.m. and then followed the cookout complete with hamburgers, hot dogs and a bunch of side dishes provided by the Boosters Club. 

It was good eating, and everybody must have been hungry because the food disappeared fast.  Of course, it takes a lot of food to feed 50 hungry football players, plus their family and friends.

The cheerleaders were there, too, but they didn’t seem to eat that much.

Nevertheless, they were in good voice just prior to the practice session.  They led the fans in several cheers and did a good job entertaining while the Bobcats were getting ready for their workout.  One of the parents said she enjoyed the cheerleaders and appreciated their contributions to the evening.

Another highlight of the night was Coach Holcomb’s comments to the parents, in which he talked about the parent’s role in helping develop and maintain a good football squad.  Finally, it was time for practice and contact drills.  KHSAA rules do not allow full contact pads until August 1.  That was Saturday.  Contact practice was scheduled to begin at 12:01 that night.

The practice took place in a section of the field close to the bus garage.  The fire department brought over some fire trucks to provide additional lighting, for which Coach Holcomb said he was grateful.

The fans were seated on some nearby bleachers.  However, as the practice began, they stood and gradually moved closer and closer to the action.  Finally, they were within eight to 10 feet of the players.  It was much closer to actual “contact” than most parents and fans had ever been.

“I thought it was neat to get a close view of what the kids go through at a practice or game,” Steuerwald observed.

The action-packed practice was exciting.  The Bobcats seemed to give it their best effort, and they also appeared to enjoy their first contact practice session of the 1992 football season.

The Jackson Times, August 6, 1992, page A14

No 1992 Varsity Honey Bowl

Bobcats Host Grid-A-Rama

Grid-A-Rama will give fans first glimpse at Bobcats

It’s been pushing a year since football fans have seen their Bobcats in action.  That’s going to change this weekend—Saturday night, in fact.

The Cats will be hosting the area Grid-A-Rama, a six-team exhibition.

Some of the strongest teams in this area and one from Lexington will be in town Saturday night for a pre-season glance at their strengths. 

Estill County, Leslie, Clay, Whitesburg, Lexington Dunbar, and Breathitt High will all play in the Grid-A Rama. Breathitt will play Whitesburg at 9 p.m.

Leslie and Estill will start the action at 6 p.m. Clay and Lexington Dunbar play at 7:30, followed by the Cats- Yellow Jackets game at 9 p.m.

Each team will play two 15-minute quarters.

Coach Holcomb said he was real happy about hosting the pre-season play as it will give local fans an opportunity to see six different teams in action in one setting.  “We’re looking at this as a scrimmage opportunity,” stated Holcomb.  “The games do not count in our regular season record.”

The fans who went to Midnight Madness saw a little action, but Saturday night, they’ll see much more, a taste of what’ll be coming up on August 29 in a regular season game in the Pikeville Bowl.

“We’re excited about the season,” stated Coach Holcomb earlier this week.  “The boys are up for this Grid-A-Rama.  They all have a good attitude.  We’re anxious to get the season underway.”

Since football is almost a year-round sport, the Cats have been preparing for the season for several months.  They’ve lifted weights all summer, attended football camp, and have been practicing with pads since the first of the month.

And speaking of camp, Holcomb said it was a good one this year.  They worked a lot on fundamentals and were made aware of team strengths as well as weaknesses.  “We saw some places where we need to work and places where we need to improve,” pointed out Holcomb.  “We’re working on them every day now, and we hope to have a stronger team because of our camp experience.”

Overall, he emphasized, camp was a very positive experience.  He said his squad came home in better condition than when it left.  “We also developed a good team spirit while at camp, and that’s important as we prepare for the season,” he observed.

Now that school has started, it’s easier for the Cats to get more serious about football, according to Holcomb.  He said football and school just seem to go hand in hand.

School starting has helped the team to be upbeat about their sport.  “Right now, enthusiasm is very high,” Holcomb pointed out.

In addition to the enthusiasm, he said he was also very happy with the quality of leadership the seniors are providing the team.  “That’s important for a good season,” he said.  “If that same degree of leadership continues, it will definitely be a plus for us.”

Right now, though, it’s time for the Grid-A-Rama.  The football coaches and players invite fans to catch as much of the action as possible.  The first game will start at 6 p.m.  Breathitt and Whitesburg will play at 9:00 if that is the only game you can make.

This Grid-O-Rama is a booster’s club event.  Reportedly, all booster club members and/or parents are needed to help with the event.  Anyone who can spare some time to help is requested to be at the football stadium by 5 Saturday afternoon.

The Jackson Times, August 20, 1992, page 19

The 1992 Season

Pikeville – August 29, 1992 – Loss 13 – 20

Breathitt impressive at Pike County Bowl

By David Strong, Voice Sports Editor

The nightcap of the 8th Annual Pike County Bowl was the game of the evening to watch.  The fans and media were all glued to their seats at Hambley Athletic Center in Pikeville, while back home in Breathitt County, folks were tuned in to radio and television for accounts of the game in which the local players were impressive but lost 20-13.

Many pigskin followers were skeptical that Breathitt County, coming off a disappointing 1-10 year in 1991, would even have a prayer against state runner-up Pikeville.  The Panthers went 14-1 last year, losing only to the Beechwood Tigers in the championship game of the Class 2A tournament.

According to a pre-season coaches’ poll, Pikeville has been rated 2nd in 2A again this year.  Quarterback J.P. Blair returns to the squad as one of the top prospects in the state for Kentucky’s Mr. Football” award.

GAME SUMMARY

Breathitt County won the coin toss for the game’s first possession and took it right to the Panthers.  In a first-quarter drive that brought the clock down to 5:49, the Bobcats scored on a one-yard run into the end zone by Latt Harmon.  Mark Benham added the extra point, and Breathitt led Pikeville 7-0.

The Panthers took possession of the ball and went through a series of downs to the Breathitt 33-yard line.  After failing to convert a 4th-12 situation, Pikeville gave up the ball with 1:25 remaining in the quarter.

Breathitt moved the football from their own 42-yard line to about the 45-yard line of Pikeville before the quarter expired, with the Cats leading 7-0.

Pikeville QB J. P. Blair finally got his team on track in the second period, putting together a long, time-consuming drive that gave the Panthers a touchdown on a 3-yard run by Elswick.  The extra point was short and to the right.  The Bobcats still led the game by a score of 7-6 with 6:53 remaining in the first half.

Bobcat senior Steve Spencer ran the kick back from their own 25-yard line to the 46 for a kick return of 21 yards.  Ritchie, Harmon, and Spencer went to work on the ground, moving the ball to the Pikeville 28-yard line before losing possession on a Ritchie fumble, recovered by Pikeville on their own 21.

Blair connected with Elswick in the end zone for a 12-yard pass after he had been pressured back to about the 30-yard line by the Bobcat defense on the play.  Joplin ran in the 2-point conversion to give the Panthers the lead, 14 7, with only 1:10 remaining in the half.

Breathitt kicked away to Pikeville to begin the second period.  They kept the ball on the ground to Breathitt’s 31-yard line, where a 4th – 3 pass went incomplete, turning it back over to the Cats. 

From their own 31, BHS returned to their senior RB Latt Harmon for a series of plays.  They moved the ball up to the Pikeville 37, where Harmon was injured on a play and was removed from the game at the 6:12 mark.  QB George Chapman then went with RB Ricky Ritchie for several plays on the ground, moving the ball to within 6 yards of the Pikeville goal line.  Ritchie needed 8 yards but got only four, turning the ball back over to the Panthers at 1:28 in the third quarter.

The Panthers ran out the clock to end the third quarter, having moved from their own 4-yard line to their own 17.  The score after three periods was 14-7.

On the opening play of the 4th quarter, Blair aired out a bomb to Joplin, who moved some 80 yards or so for a quick TD.

The extra point attempt was blocked by the Bobcats, holding the score at 20-7 with 11:24 remaining in the game. 

Breathitt County took over on their own 41, with Coach Holcomb really mixing up the offense now with QB options, pitchouts, draw plays, QB keepers, and passing.  This mixed bag of tricks paid off for them at the 6:27 mark when Steve Spencer scored on a one-yard run.  The extra point kick was barely wide to the left, and Pikeville held on to their lead at 20-13.

Pikeville received the kickoff at their own 4 3, kept it on the ground in an effort to kill off the clock, but had to punt it away from their own 38 with over 3 minutes remaining.  The Panther kicker put everything he had into the kick, the ball sailing all the way to the Breathitt 19-yard line.

Chapman was sacked for a loss of 5 yards on the 1st down play.  On 2nd 15, he rolled out, then pitched the ball to Ritchie, who scrambled for 13 yards to the 27-yard line.  On 3rd-2, Chapman again went to Ritchie, who gained another 6 yards for the 1st down with 1:57 to go. 

The game was building to an exciting climax.  Breathitt County had the opportunity to upset the Pikeville Panthers on Panther turf, but the Bobcat’s drive seemed to die on the 33-yard line.  In a series of three straight incomplete passes and a final handoff to Ricky Ritchie, the drive was over, and so was the game.  The Pikeville Panthers defeated Breathitt County by the final score of 20-13.

Pikeville is now 1-0, but Breathitt had an excellent showing against this powerhouse team.  They raised a lot of eyebrows by their deed at Hambley.  We’ll see them in action again this Friday night, September 4, at Estill County.

The Breathitt County Voice, September 2, 1992, page 17

Holcomb Celebrates Ten Years at Breathitt

Holcomb reached decade at the top

By David Strong, VOICE Sports Editor

Breathitt County High School Head Football Coach Mike Holcomb reaches a milestone at the close of this 1992 season.  It was ten years ago that he was promoted to the head coaching job, following two years as an assistant.

Longevity in the role of head coach tells you a couple of things for certain.  Your coach is running a successful football program, and someone wants you back for another season.  In the case of Mike Holcomb, that scenario has repeated itself nine times.

Holcomb credits his successful career not to himself.  He credits the number of loyal personnel and screaming fans who have made his job a secure one.  This list includes his own coaching staff, school administrators, the Board of Education, Football Boosters, and parents of the players.  Holcomb’s program is carried out under the skillful guidance of his assistant coaches.

Tim Noble is beginning his 7th season at BHS, a former football star himself.  Noble has been recognized as one of the best to ever play the positions of offensive (OG) and defensive guard (DC) at Breathitt High School.  He will be working with the offensive and defensive lines.

Irton Sparkman begins his 6th year as an assistant coach.  He’s a former tight end (TE) and defensive end (DE) from East Noble High School in Kendallville, Indiana.  This graduate of Purdue University was an assistant coach for the Knott County Central Patriots before joining Holcomb’s staff at Breathitt.  In addition to working with the defensive ends, Sparkman will work with the younger players and will do some scouting for the team.

Doug Back is now in his 5th year at Breathitt.  Back played football in Middletown, Ohio, before moving to Breathitt County for the 1973 and 1974 seasons.  He coached the freshman squad in 1980 and worked with the grade school football program at Mane Roberts Elementary in 1987.

Back will be working with the freshmen again this season, and Coach Holcomb recognizes this as a monumental task.  Back will take these young players aside and mold them into a football team.  He’ll have the opportunity to play this squad against other freshmen and junior varsity teams throughout the season.

Steve Thomas begins his 4th year at Breathitt.  He is a former quarterback (QB) for the Bobcats and also played some defensive end (DE).  He’ll execute Holcomb’s plan for the secondary, running backs (RB), quarterbacks (QB), and wide receivers (WR).  Whatever the “skill kids” need, it will be Thomas who does most of the work with them.

John Paul Chapman will start his 6th season this year as an assistant to Holcomb.  He heads up the Sebastian Middle School program and, whenever time permits, is on hand to assist with the high school team.  His role at SMS is a vital one to the building of future Breathitt High School teams.  He takes his job seriously and is a valuable addition to Holcomb’s program.

Clyde Caudill is a newcomer to Breathitt football.  He played for Leslie County a few years ago but had followed the Bobcats pretty closely.  His role with the BHS football program will find him working with the linebackers (LB). 

Coach Holcomb also recognizes Dennis Cornett for his fine efforts.  Cornett worked with the team while they were at football camp this year; and Dennis will be a valuable asset to have around.

“If I have an assistant coach working with my players that can’t go out there and do things on his own without my constant supervision, I don’t need him with me,” says Holcomb.  “I feel very fortunate with this coaching staff.”

“Most of them have played here at Breathitt and they know the things they need to do with this team.  They go ahead and do them, and that’s a tremendous help to me,” said Mike.

“They really care for these players in more ways than just football.  That’s what an assistant coach has to do.  The winning is great, and playing the game is great, but these guys know that our kids have other needs, too.”

A common problem facing many football teams involves players who think they’re superstars; I doubt that you’ll witness very much of that on the field this year, for Coach Holcomb takes a firm stand on that issue.

“I teach my kids that there’s eleven players out there on the field,” says Holcomb.  “Not just one or two, but eleven.  I compare a football team to a six or eight-cylinder engine.  You can’t depend upon one or two cylinders to get you anywhere.  You need them all working together.”

“A football team functions the same way,” he continued.  “You need all eleven players out there doing their jobs.  If one or two want to do it all, or if a couple of players let down in their performance, then the team’s chemistry is gone, and the game is out of balance.”

“All eleven of our guys on the field, regardless of who they are, try to function together as a unit, as a complete engine.  That’s what I want out of my football teams and my coaches help me to achieve that.”

A good football team has to be able to maintain great fundamentals of the game.  This, according to Holcomb, is probably the most important area to deal with because it is so vital to a team’s performance.

“You have to be able to block and tackle in football,” says the coach.  “If you can’t block and tackle, then you can’t play football very well.  Everybody can run the ball a little bit on offense and defense, but you have to be able to defend your goal by tackling your opponent.  You must block them when you’re on offense to move the ball down the field.”

“So, we try to work on these fundamentals every day that we’re out there on the field,” continued Holcomb.  “We put on the pads, and we practice our block and tackle drills.”  One thing you’ll see in this 1992 football team this year is a positive attitude.  They struggled a bit last season, but they kept their pride and a good attitude.  That feeling will carry over this year because that’s what Mike Holcomb football is all about.

The seniors lead this team by experience and example, and you’ll see the remaining players learn from that.  For George Chapman, Steven Spencer, Wick Chapman, Chris Gillum, Anthony Combs, and Latt Harmon, this is the final season they’ll ever wear the blue and white for Breathitt.  This is their final opportunity to play for a winning high school football team.

Fans, it’s going to be an exciting season of football.

The Breathitt County Voice, September 2, 1992, page B2

Estill County – September 4, 1992 – Win 28 – 21

Bobcats steam outpowered Estill Engineers

By Jack Niece

The Bobcats evened their record at 1-1 Friday night when they defeated a traditionally strong rival, the mighty Engineers of Estill County, 28-21.

The win was even more significant in light of the fact that the Engineers had won the last three matches with the Bobcats.  Last season, Estill outscored Breathitt 21-12.

That’s behind us.  The important thing is the Cats changed all that Friday night.  They delighted their fans, coaches, and themselves with a thrilling and confidence-building victory as they blew the whistle on the Engineers.

The Engineers got their steam up early in the match.  In fact, they scored on their very first snap from scrimmage, a 65-yard touchdown run by Pal Bailey.  He also kicked the PAT, and Estill was up 7-0 just 40 seconds deep into the game.

That didn’t bother the Cats greatly.  They soon snapped right back, even though they didn’t get a first down on their opening possession. 

That changed on their 2nd possession.  Taking over on their own 25, they didn’t stop until they were in the end zone.  The Engineer’s defense was powerless to slow them down. Ricky Ritchie scored the first touchdown on a 7-yard run; Mark Benham kicked the extra point that tied the game 7-7 with 0:34 to go in the first quarter.

That long drive was aided by a 34-yard pass from quarterback George Chapman to Wick Chapman.  The rest of the yards were picked up mostly on short runs by Harmon, Ritchie, and Spencer.

In the 2nd and 3rd quarters, the scoring procedure was the same as in the first.  That is.  Estill scored, followed by a Breathitt touchdown.  The end result was that the game was tied 21-21 at the end of the 3rd.

As the 3rd quarter wound down, Estill was in possession of the ball.  Having started on their own 27, they moved the ball to Breathitt’s 27 in just four plays thanks to a 42-yard pass to Jason Freeman.

Just when it looked like the Engineers were gathering up steam for the endzone, Waylon Chapman, a freshman, blew up their engine completely.  He intercepted a big pass that would most likely have been a touchdown.

The Cats took over on their own one-yard line, and 13 plays later, Steve Spencer scored his first touchdown of the game, taking the ball in from 6 yards out.  After Benham kicked the extra point, the Bobcats were in front for the first time during the game.  That happened with 4:21 left to play.  It probably seemed longer than that to the defense as they struggled to keep Estill from scoring.  They did their thing, though.

They kept their host out of the end zone, a big factor in Breathitt’s win.  The major defensive play on that drive was a big interception by Tim Taulbee.  He intercepted dangerously close to Breathitt’s goal line; therefore, he may have denied the Engineers another touchdown.

In reference again to Breathitt’s last touchdown drive, Latt Harmon came through at a very critical time.  In a 3rd down and 8 to go situation, he picked up a much-needed 12 yards to clinch another 1st down for his team, enabling them to go on and score.  Another big play on that drive was a 20-yard pass from Chapman to Spencer.

The Bobcats 2nd and 3rd touchdowns were scored by Latt Harmon on very short runs.  Spencer started the 2nd when he returned the ball to Breathitt’s 34.  Along the way, Harmon rushed once for 21 yards, the big gainer on that drive.  On other carries, he rushed for shorter yards, as did Ritchie and Spencer.  Going into the intermission, the game was even at 14-14.

The Cats’ 3rd touchdown drive, which started from their 39 following a 21-yard return by Harmon, was aided by a 22-yard run by Harmon and a 16-yarder by Spencer.

Mark Benham kicked each of the extra points, being 100 percent successful in each attempt.  His super performance drew words of praise from Coach Holcomb, who said he thought Mark did an excellent job.

“This was a great team win for us,” observed Holcomb.  “We had several people who rose to the challenge and pulled us through,” he continued.  He said he was well-pleased with two or three freshmen who did some big things for the team – especially Waylon.

He was also happy with the performance of the offensive line.  “Those boys did an outstanding job blocking,” he added.  He said they had been improving with every game adding that he was especially happy about the way they have started working as a unit.

Performing well on that line were Wick Chapman, Shawn Smith, Shane Carpenter, Gene Duncan, Chris Gillum, and Al Collins.

Ricky Ritchie was injured during the game, and Chris Gillum filled in for him.  Holcomb stressed that he was pleased with the way Chris stepped in and rose to the challenge.

Holcomb stressed that quarterback George Chapman continues to give an all-out effort to his team.  “He’s just a super player,” said his coach.  “He’s a good athlete, and we depend on him to get us through.”

Another group that the team depends on is the defensive line.  Holcomb thinks the line needs to improve overall, but he was very vocal in his praise of their quality playing against Estill.  For jobs well done, he expressed appreciation to Bobby Hoffman, Wick Chapman, Hershel Fugate, Joey Stewart, Adam Steuerwald, and Chris Gillum.  He added that he thought Greg Gross did a good job at the rover position. 

Breathitt rushed for a total of 249 yards.  Harmon carried the ball 25 times for 130 yards and two touchdowns.  Spencer gained 72 yards on 11 carries, Ritchie 13 on six, George Chapman 24 on three, and Chris Hollon 10 on three.

Chapman completed four of five passes for 74 yards.  On the receiving ends were Wick Chapman for 34 yards, Ritchie for seven, and Spencer for 33.

Friday, the Bobcats host a big rival, Belfry.  It promises to be a big game.  It’s a district game.  The advice from Coach Holcomb is to arrive early in order to claim a seat.  The team has a host of strong, dedicated fans who follow their team faithfully.  So, you may need to come early to get a seat.

The Jackson Times, September 10, 19921, page A14

Belfry High School – September 11, 1992 – Loss 6 – 28

Belfry too much for Bobcats

By David Strong

The Breathitt County varsity Bobcats competed in their first district game of the season last Friday night when they hosted their archrival from Pike County, the Belfry Pirates.

The Bobcats went into the game with a record of 1-1, while the Pirates, rated seventh in the state, were looking to remain perfect on the season with a 2-0 record. 

Breathitt County won the coin toss and elected to receive the ball to begin the game.  Starting on their own 32-yard line, the Bobcats came out looking tough but failed to score after an opening drive of seven plays, which moved the ball to midfield.

Receiving the punt deep in Pirate territory, Belfry set up their first drive from their own 38-yard line.  Moving the ball all the way down to the Bobcat twelve-yard line over ten plays, the Pirates finally made a mistake on a handoff up the middle.  The ball came loose for a fumble, and the Bobcat defenders were there to pounce it.

Taking over on their own ten-yard line, Breathitt County failed to get a first down and had to punt it away on a fourth and one from their own nine-yard line.  There was another Pirate fumble during the return, but the referees ruled the ball had been whistled dead on the Bobcat 30-yard line with 0:55 to play in the first quarter.

On the first play of their second possession, Eric Coleman broke all tackles and ran 30 yards for the game’s first touchdown.  The PAT (point after touchdown) was good with 0:28 remaining in the first quarter, and the Pirates went on top, 7-0.

The Bobcats began their next drive from their own 25-yard line and had time for one play before the end of the quarter with Belfry leading, 7-0.

On the first play in the second period, on a second and ten from the 25-yard line, George Chapman hit Tim Taulbee with a pass upheld, giving the Bobcats a first down at the Pirate 47.  Chapman then kept the ball for another five yards down to the 43-yard line, then hit Wick Chapman for a pass to the 31-yard line and another first down.

Carries by Ricky Ritchie, Latt Harmon, and George Chapman gave the Cats new life at the Pirate 19-yard line with another first and 10.  Keeping the ball on the ground, Steve Spencer and Ricky Ritchie moved the ball to the five-yard line for a first and goal.  Here, the Pirate goal-line defense kicked in, and it took the Bobcats four plays to gain the five yards they needed for the touchdown.  Benham’s PAT was off to the side, allowing the Pirates to hold their lead at 7-6 with six minutes to play in the first half.

Belfry’s next drive began on their own 24-yard line, but this time, the Pirate offense seemed to fall apart.  They kept the ball for six plays but moved it in the opposite direction, thanks to a couple of Pirate penalty flags.  Belfry punted the ball away from their own 19-yard line, much to the delight of the hometown Bobcat fans.

Now, from their own 42, the Bobcats had another shot at gaining the lead.  QB George Chapman went to the air on the first two plays of this drive, but his passes were incomplete to Taulbee and Landsaw. 

On the third and ten from the 42, Latt Harmon tried to pick up the necessary yardage on the ground but could only muscle his way for two yards.  The Cats punted on fourth and eight from their own 44-yard line.

With about 1:30 to play in the half, the Pirates took possession of their own 49-yard line and were immediately flagged for another penalty (illegal procedure).  That brought the ball back five yards to the 44 on the 1st and 15.

QB Stacy went to the air a couple of times but was incomplete on both occasions, then on third and ten from their own 49, was flagged for yet another penalty (illegal procedure).  The Bobcats declined to accept the penalty yardage, forcing a fourth down punting situation for Belfry with only 0:35 to go in the first half.

The Bobcats let the punt roll all the way to their own six-yard line and had time for maybe one or two plays.  Electing to stay on the ground, they gained a couple of yards to the nine-yard line.  Then the clock expired with Belfry leading Breathitt County, 7-6 at the half.

Breathitt County kicked away to Belfry to begin the second half of play.  Starting from their own 29-yard line the Pirates looked much improved after the halftime break.

In a series of seven plays from the line of scrimmage, Belfry kept the ball on the ground as they moved downfield, highlighted by a 24-yard run by the Quarterback on a keeper from the Bobcat 41-yard line.

On the next play, they ran it in from about 17 yards out for the touchdown.  The PAT was good, and the Pirates extended their lead to eight points over the Cats, 14-6.

The momentum continued in favor of Belfry as the Cats failed to convert a fourth and four at their own 33-yard line, forced to punt it back into the hands of the Pirates. 

Belfry scored two unanswered touchdowns with PATs in the third quarter, then one more in the final period to win the game, 28-6.

Belfry gave Breathitt County their first district loss of the season.  The Bobcats are now 1-2 on the year, while Belfry left town with a perfect 3-0 mark.

Breathitt is on the road this Friday, taking on Madison Central.  As always, the Bobcats welcome you to make the trip with them and loan your vocal cords to the cheering section.

The Breathitt County Voice, September 16, 1992, page 16

Madison Central High School – September 18, 1992 – Loss – 0 – 20

Madison Central shuts Bobcats out 20-0

By Jack Niece

Even though the Bobcats lost to Madison Central 20-0 Friday night, the game was not without its positive features.

Coach Holcomb said Latt Harmon, who rushed for 167 yards on 18 carries, was one of the bright spots.  So was Ricky Ritchie, whose eight solo tackles made him the leader in that category.  He also had a big interception.  Holcomb said he thought Ricky played an excellent defensive game.

He was also high on Greg Gross, saying, “He played his position well and did a good job.”

Another bright spot was quarterback George Chapman, who “gave his usual all-out effort,” according to his coach.  Holcomb said he needed more players who played up to Chapman’s level of intensity and dedication.

The shutout came as a surprise to the coaches and players.  They are not accustomed to that.

Holcomb said he felt the Bobcats and coaches both had to accept some responsibility for the shutout.  So far as the players he said he thought they did not play good football.

“They did not play up to their ability,” he stressed.

On the other hand, he said he felt responsible for the loss.  “It’s my job as a coach to see that the team is prepared and ready for a game.  Evidently, I did not prepare the team as I should have,” he philosophized.

He stressed that each player must be hitting on the same cylinder to be effective.  “Every player must give a great effort every minute of every game,” he emphasized.  “There is no place for even one player to let up or relax.”

That degree of concentration was not present Friday night.  The Cats did not get on track early, and they did not set the tone of the game early as they usually do.

Breathitt received the opening kickoff and returned the ball 15 yards to their own 25.  Harmon picked up eight yards and a first down on their second play but then had to punt.

The defense kept Madison Central from a first down on their opening possession.

Taking over on their 29, the Bobcats were confident on a 4-2 play.  They went for it and made it and then had to punt on a 4-10 situation.

With 3:03 left in the first quarter, Central started their first touchdown drive and didn’t stop until they had it in the end zone with 29 seconds left in the period.  Szenyeri scored on a 3-yard run.

In fact, Szenyeri scored each of the Indians’ TDs.  The 2nd one was also scored from three yards out; the 3rd was one a 23-yard run.

After Madison Central’s first score, Breathitt was very much in the game.  Matthew Sharp returned their kickoff for 24 yards to Breathitt’s 33.  On the drive, George  Chapman connected with Wick Chapman for 11 yards.  Most of the other yards came on short runs up the middle.  Finally, Breathitt got the ball to Central’s 1-yard line.

There it stayed.  Central’s defense was like a stone wall.  The Cats could not break it.  On a 4 and 1 situation, they had to turn the ball over.

That seemed to be the turning point in the game.

Not being able to score and having to turn the ball over was bad enough.  Central added insult to injury when they went the full length of the court and scored, taking with them a 14-0 lead into halftime.

Starting the 2nd half, Central put together a good drive and moved the ball to Breathitt’s 31.  That’s when Ritchie got his big interception, but the Cats were unable to capitalize on it.

In the 4th period, Greg Gross came through with another impressive interception, but the Cats were unable to do anything with it.

The Bobcats completed four of 17 passes for 47 yards.  Central completed five of nine for 71.

In addition to the 167 yards rushing by Harmon, Spencer picked up 12, Ritchie 18, Chapman 45, and Hollon three for a total of 245 yards.

Defensively, Ritchie had eight solo tackles, Harmon five, Spencer three, Chapman three, Steuerwald two, and Gross two.

Friday night game

Friday night, the Bobcats host Somerset.  Somerset plays good, solid football year in and year out.  They have a fine program, thinks Coach Holcomb.

Fans can expect to see a good quarterback in the person of Richard Lynch.  He’ll run the team well if he lives up to his past performances.

It’ll be homecoming Friday night.

The coaches and players invite their fans from far and near to come to watch the game.  It’ll be the first of 3 home games in a row.  “We’d really like to see our fans in large numbers for all of these games,” stressed Holcomb.  “We need them, especially Friday night, as we try hard to turn our program around.”

The Jackson Times, September 24, 1992, page 16

Somerset High School – September 25, 1992 – Win 35 – 7

Mental preparation big factor in Cats’ Homecoming win

By Jack Niece

Breathitt High School’s Bobcats surely contributed their part to their school’s Homecoming Friday night.   Not only did they win their football game 35-7, they put together one of the best performances of this season.

Giving up only seven points to traditionally football-rich Somerset, the Bobcats put together two excellent halves, an accomplishment Coach Holcomb said he was well pleased with.

In fact, he stated that he was happy with every aspect of the game.  Holcomb said he thought the secret to the win lay in the fact that his team played well mentally and physically.  “They made up their minds to play ball,” he explained, “and they played with intensity and confidence.”

“As a matter of fact,” he stressed, “they played an outstanding game.” 

Everything about the game clicked.  Individuals played well.  The team played well. Defense and offense both performed impressively.  The Cats ran the ball well, blocked well, kicked well, and caught well.

What more could a coaching staff and fans expect from their high school team?

Holcomb said he hoped that the Bobcats’ good performance would give the team moral confidence that it can do the same again.  “If we prepare ourselves as well mentally for all our other games as we did for the Somerset contest, we can continue to win,” he observed.

In fact, Holcomb said he thought the No. 1 reason for the Cats’ win was their mental preparedness.  He stressed that they took the responsibility to be ready for the game.

And ready they were when the game started.  The defense didn’t give Somerset a first down on their first possession.  The next time Somerset got the ball, Ricky Ritchie made a big interception, and Breathitt took over on their one 43.  Twelve plays later, Harmon scored from one yard out, and Benham’s kick was good, putting Breathitt in front 7-0 with 1:22 left in the first quarter.

Breathitt’s domination continued in the 2nd quarter.  Taking over on their own 40, Somerset advanced the ball to Breaihiu’s 23.  On a four-and-eight situation, they attempted a field goal only to have it blocked by Greg Gross, who just two plays earlier, stopped them dead in their tracks with a big solo tackle.

Starting their second touchdown drive, Breathitt got a boost from Ricky Ritchie with a 12-yard gain even though he had to drag two or three guest players with them.  On the drive, Harmon picked up a first down when he caught George Chapman’s pass.  Most of the other gains came on short runs by Spencer, Hannon, and Ritchie.  Chapman scored the touchdown on a quarterback keeper from two yards out.

With just 0:26 left in the first half, Somerset scored when Richard Lynch connected with John Smith on a 10-yard pass.  The PAT by Smith was good, which reduced Breathitt’s half-time lead to 13-7.

Holcomb said he was a little concerned about them scoring just before intermission.  However, it did not bother the Bobcats.  They came right out and completed a 56-yard touchdown drive at 4:43 left in the third.  Harmon scored on a one-yard run; Tim Taulbee’s two-point conversion was good, and the Cats stretched their lead to 21-7.

Hold on; there’s more to come.  Tim isn’t through.  He made a big hit on the runner; Greg Gross finished him off, popping the ball loose, and Breathitt recovered the fumble.  Great position.  Breathitt on their own 40. 

Steve Spencer gained 21 yards on two runs, moving the ball to Somerset’s 39.  Along the way, quarterback George Chapman completed a pass to Wick Chapman, and Harmon scored again on a two-yard run.   Benham’s kick put his team in front 28-7.

That set the stage for Ricky Ritchie’s exciting 56-yard touchdown run, the team’s last.  Freshman Nate Pot kicked the extra point, which gave the Bobcats their final and winning score, 35-7.

Having only good things to say about his players.  Holcomb said he thought Steve Spencer played an outstanding game on both offense and defense.  “He ran the ball extremely hard.” stated his coach.

The efforts of Greg Gross did not go unnoticed.  He made some big tackles and generally played extremely well on defense.

Chris Gillum’s contributions were appreciated too, noted Holcomb.

The offensive line blocked exceptionally well.  Doing a good job there were Wick Chapman, Shane Carpenter, Shawn Smith, Gene Duncan, Chris Gillum, and Al Collins.

Holcomb stressed that he thought the defensive “trench line” did a commendable job.  Bobby Hoffman, Hcrshcl Fugate, and Joey Stewart were singled out for well-done jobs.

Mark Benham and Nate Poe kicked well, causing their coach to take special note.

George Chapman continues to do his usual good things as the quarterback.  Holcomb said he gives the squad excellent leadership and sets a high-performance standard.

Three Bobcats rushed for roughly 100 yards each Friday night.  They were Steve Spencer, Latt Hannon, and Ricky Ritchie.

Clay County Next

Friday night, Clay County, 5-0, will be in town to accept the Bobcats’ challenge.  They have one of the best running backs in the state, and stopping him will be the Cats’ greatest challenge, observed Holcomb.  “We must stop him.  We must limit him to a minimum gain,” he said.  “We have to control him if we’re to win.”

Coach Hensley always gets his team up for Breathitt.  Holcomb is expecting nothing less this time.  “Hensley is a good coach,” he added, “he’ll come prepared.”

It will be a district game.  Additionally, Clay County is a big rival.  The coaches and players urge their fans to attend the game to help them be the first this season to defeat a very talented club.

The Jackson Times, October 1, 1992, page 14

Clay County – October 2, 1992 – Loss 12 – 35

Henson big factor in Cat’s hard-fought loss to Clay Co.

By Jack Niece

Clay County lived up to its reputation last Friday of being one of the best football teams in the mountains when the Tigers defeated Breathitt 35-12.  Clay remains undefeated with a 6-0 record; Breathitt 2-4.

A big factor in Breathitt’s valiant but bring effort was running back DeShay Henson.  He carried the ball 24 times for 221 yards rushing.  He scored on 63 and 36-yard touchdown runs.

“There’s no doubt about it,” said Coach Holcomb.  “Henson made a big difference in the game.”

Even in the loss of several of the Bobcats played hard, said their coach.  “The kids have a great effort,” he added.  “I’m proud of the positive things that happened in the game.”

Clay scored a couple of touchdowns in the first quarter which gave them a 14-0 add going into the second frame.  But Breathitt jumped in and completed a couple of touchdown drives in the second quarter to narrow the difference to just 14-12.  At that point, the Cats were very much in the game.

Just before the half, Henson went for a 63-yard touchdown run on the Tigers’ first play after Breathitt scored their 2nd touchdown.  That put them up 21 -12 at intermission.

Coach Holcomb said he thought that long play was the turning point in the game.  Indeed, it seems to have been.  The Bobcats were unable to score in the 2nd half.

Also, Holcomb stated that his club did not take advantage of some situation early in the second half.  “You can’t allow a big play to happen against a great football team like Clay,” observed Holcomb.  “And that happened a couple of times.”

Stressing some positive features of the game, Holcomb said he thought Wick Chapman and Latt Harmon both had good games.  “They played extremely hard,” he emphasized.

Breathitt got off to a good start that soon turned sour.  They received the opening kickoff, returned it to their own 48, and then fumbled it.  What could have been an excellent position for the Cats turned out to be an excellent position for the Tigers.  They took over, and nine plays later, Randy Gregory scored the 1st touchdown on a one-yard run.  Roberts’ kick was good, putting the eventual winners up 7-0.

More bad luck came for the Cats.  They took over on their 31, gained a couple of yards, and then fumbled again.  Ritchie recovered it, but the team lost ten yards, forcing a punt on a four and 17 play.

On their 2nd possession, the Tigers started from their own 43 and steadily moved the ball to Breathitt’s 13.  From there, Roberts ran it in.  The kick was good, and the Tigers were up 14-0 after the first quarter.

The early part of the second frame belonged to Breathitt.  Ricky Ritchie returned Clay’s kickoff to Breathitt’s 43.  On mostly short gainers by Hannon and Ritchie, the Cats gradually moved the ball despite Clay’s powerful defense.  Harmon capped the drive with a two-yard touchdown run with 8:44 left in the half.

When Clay took over, they fumbled, and Wick Chapman recovered it.  Six plays later, Harmon went in for another touchdown on a 5-yard run.  Score: 14-12.

Breathitt was very much in the game.

Then came Henson’s 63-yard touchdown run that seemed to take the game out of the hands of the Bobcats.

In the 2nd half, Gregory scored again from one yard out, followed by Henson’s second big run of the night.

Harmon carried the ball 17 times for Breathitt, gaining 110 yards and two touchdowns.  Ritchie rushed for 43 yards on ten dashes.  Spencer picked up 36 on five carries.

Quarterback George Chapman completed two of seven passes for three yards.  Ritchie was on the receiving end both times.

Clay’s quarterback, Gregory, completed two of four passes for 39 yards.

Defensively, Harmon led the Cats in solo and total tackles with six and nine, respectively.  Bobby Hoffman was close by with eight.  Hershel Fugate made six tackles, Ricky Ritchie six, George Chapman five, Greg Gross five, Wick Chapman five, Adam Steurwald four, Chris Gillum four, and Shawn Smith three.

Tim Taulbee ran four kickoff returns for a total of 76 yards.  Ricky Ritchie returned two for 59 yards.

Cawood Game

Friday night, the Cats host Cawood in their last home game.  It will be senior night.  Therefore, all Bobcat fans have a special invitation to the game.

Coach Holcomb says that Cawood plays a style of football similar to the Bobcats.  Their offense is basically like Breathitt’s, he added, and they run the wishbone.

“They play hard-nosed defense.  They like to keep the ball away from you,” he explained.

Coach Tim Saylor is an excellent coach, emphasized Holcomb.  He added that Cawood is well-coached, won’t make any mistakes, and is fundamentally sound.  “They won’t beat themselves,” he concluded.

Coach Holcomb, his coaching staff, and all the Bobcats extend a special invitation to football fans everywhere to come out and support the Cats in this their last home game this season.

The Jackson Times, October 8, 1992, page B6

Cawood High School – October 9, 1992 – Win 14 – 7

Bobcats thrill fans with closing second win over Cawood

By Jack Niece

The seniors bid farewell to their home fans Friday night, and they did it magnificently.  They beat Cawood 17-14 and did it thrillingly in the final minute of action.

It could well be the most memorable win of their high school football career.

The Cats were down 14-10 with 4:02 left in the game.  That’s when they got the ball for their final possession.  As the clock ticked off, they picked up 21 yards.  With just 0:39 left to play, quarterback George Chapman completed a pass he can tell his grandchildren about.  Freshman Matt Sharp can tell him about the pass, too, because he was the one who caught it, a 13-yard pass.

The fans were all standing when the ball was placed on the 5-yard line.  On the ensuing play, the Cats lost a yard or two, but Harmon gained them back on a run up the middle.

Then came that ecstatic game-winning play, a 5-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Chapman to Harmon.  Nate Poe kicked the extra point, giving the Bobcats a three-point victory over a team that was rated above them in the Cantrall ratings.

Coach Holcomb said he felt the electric charge in his team late in the game and knew deep down that they were going to win.  Senior Wick Chapman said he thought his team would make it.  “In fact,” he added, “everybody thought we would make it.”

What a way for the seniors to end their football career before their home fans.

Coach Holcomb described the win as “exciting.”

“I was really glad for the kids,” he stressed.  They played hard all night, and they played well.  It was a good team win for us.”

Holcomb said he thought his defense played unusually well.  He added that he thought Hershel Fugate and Latt Harmon played outstandingly.  Doing their usual good job were Bobby Hoffman and Joey Stewart.

Steve Spencer and Wick Chapman got their coach’s attention for jobs well done at defensive ends.  Linebackers Greg Gross, Chris Gillum, and Adam Steuerwald also did.

That defense went to work immediately.  They refused Cawood a first down on their opening possession, forcing them to punt on a 4 and 4 play.

The Bobcats took over on Cawood’s 39.  Ten plays later, Ricky Ritchie scored from 8 yards out.

Poe’s kick was good, and the Cats were up by seven.

Midway through the second round, they increased their lead to 10-0 following a 30-yard field goal by Poe.

Just before intermission, Cawood got on the board after Brett Johnson scored on a nine-yard pass from Saylor.  Wood’s kick was good, and Cawood narrowed the difference to 10-7 just before intermission.

Cawood received the kickoff to start the second half and scored with 7:10 remaining in the 3rd quarter and took the lead 14-10.

That score stood until the final minute of action when Breathitt scored again with just 21 seconds to play, giving the Cats and their fans a long-to-be-remembered come-from-behind win.

The offense came through when the pressure was on.  Holcomb said he was extremely pleased with the blocking of the offensive line.  Doing a super job, there were Shawn Smith, Shane Carpenter, and Gene Duncan.  Chris Gillum, and Al Collins.

The whole offensive crew drew words of praise from their coach.  He mentioned the excellent performances of George Chapman, Steve Spencer, Latt Harmon, and Ricky Ritchie.

Just as it was a good night for the seniors, it was a good night for the freshmen.  Matt Sharp made a thrilling catch that put the team in position to score.  He also returned a kickoff for 16 yards.

Waylon Chapman made a big interception at the end of the game and a saving tackle earlier.

Nate Poe kicked a 30-yard field goal and each of Breathitt’s two extra points.

Harmon’s nine tackles made him the leader in that department.  Close by was H. Fugate, with eight, six of which were solos.  Greg Gross made six (five solo), R. Ritchie four, C. Gillum three, B. Hoffman three, A. Steuerwald two, G. Chapman two, and S. Spencer two.

The team rushed for a total of 211 yards.  Harmon gained 111 on 26 rushes.  Spencer carried the ball 13 times for 45 yards; Ritchie nine for 38, and G. Chapman four for 17.

Chapman completed three of nine passes for 25 yards.  Ritchie caught one for seven.  Harmon was one for five and Sharp one for 13.

Ritchie and Harmon scored Breathitt’s touchdowns, and the field goal and extra points were kicked by Poe.

Montgomery County Game Breathitt’s last three games are on the road.  Friday, the Cats play Montgomery County at Mt. Sterling.  Kickoff time is 7:30. 

Mt. Sterling has played some of the top teams in the state.  They have, for example, been beaten by Ashland and Clark County.  Holcomb said he expects it to be a tough game.

“We’ll have to play extra well to win,” he stated.

He stressed that he, the other coaches, and the players invited all Bobcat fans to the game.  “We’ve had good fan support all along,” he added.  “We sure hope our fans will stick with us these last three games.”

Notice the game starts at 7:30.

The Jackson Times, October 13, 1992, page 12

A Family Affair

Senior Night- Caywood

Seniors and parents honored at Cawood game

The Breathitt-Cawood game on Friday night was designated as “Senior Night.”  It was an opportunity to recognize each football senior and other seniors who have contributed to the sport either through the band, as a cheerleader, or as a flag girl.

At halftime, Addie Murphy led the salute by introducing the seniors and their parents and commenting about each.

The seven senior Bobcats presented were Christopher Hays, George Chapman, Stephen Spencer, Latt Harmon, Chris Gillum, Anthony Combs, and Wick Chapman, Jr.

She pointed out that Christopher, the son of Pierce and Maggie Hays, wants to attend UK as a student trainer in pre-med and become a trainer through apprenticeship while studying there.  He has been a trainer/manager for BHS football and plans to be a trainer for boys’ and girls’ basketball.

George Chapman, son of George and Grace Chapman, has been a quarterback and strong safety.  In addition to football, he also played baseball.  He likes biology, football games, and being with friends.  He plans to go to college and study pharmacy or biological science.

Stephen Spencer is the son of HB and Ruth Spencer.  He’s been a linebacker and fullback at Breathitt.  He likes riding around and being with friends.  He plans to attend Lexington Electronics and major in computers.

Latt Harmon, son of Ronald and Susan Harmon, has been a running back and linebacker for the Bobcats.  He also played baseball.  Latt likes biology, and he enjoys hanging out with his friends.   He plans to go to college and hopes to play football.

Chris Gillum is the son of Danny and Helen Gillum.  He has been a linebacker and guard for the Cats.  He likes spending time with his friends, and he plans to attend UK. 

Anthony Combs, son of Everett and Janet Combs, plays right tackle.  Next to football, he likes softball, and he hopes to attend UK.

Wick Chapman is the son of Wick and Sue Chapman.  He plays defense and tight end.  Wick enjoys horseback riding, hunting, and riding around in his car.  He is also a forward on Breathitt’s basketball team.  His plans include college. 

The band has ten seniors in it.

Karen Jo Haddix, the daughter of Ruth Haddix, is a 4-year band member, 3-year softball player, 4-year member of the academic team, a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish Club, FBLA, yearbook staff, and a member of the Clayhole Grace Brethren Church.  She plans to attend UK and major in biology or chemistry and then go to med school.

Scarlet Pope, daughter of William Glenn and Judith Ann Pope, is a field commander of Breathitt High Band.  She plays the sax ansd is a member of the National Honor Society and yearbook staff.  Her plans include attending Midway College and majoring in accounting.

Chris McClees is the son of Roy McClees and Maudie Spicer.  He likes playing the guitar and spending time with his girlfriend.  He hopes to own a music store and become a musician.

Brelia Dousay, daughter of Howard and Mona Dousay, is a 2-year band member.  She’s also a member of the Ky. Jr. Historical Society, National Honor Society, BHS Chorus,  student council, Teens for Christ, academic team, and she was a 1-year cheerleader.  Her plans include attending Berea College and majoring in music.

Shannon Taulbee’s parents are William and Deborah Taulbee.  Shannon enjoys band, FBLA, and FHA.  Plans include going to college, though a major has not been selected.

Julie Jones is the daughter of Lois and Bill Jones.  She’s band captain and a member of the girls varsity basketball, student council, National Honor Society, pep club, Teens for Christ, Spanish Club, and yearbook staff.  Julie is active in her church and was last year’s prom queen.  She plans to attend UK or MSU and major in education.  She hopes to play in the band of whatever college she attends.

Alicia Rose Hudson is the daughter of Mike and Shirley Hudson.  She’s a 4-year member of the band, a 3-year member of the National Honor Society, and Bach Memorial Christian Church.  She was band uniform captain, assistant field commander, student council vice president, and secretary of the National Honor Society.  Alicia plans to attend MSU and major in music education.

Ricky Combs, the son of George and Maxine Combs, has been in the band for two years.  He also played football for two years.  His future plans include attending Lexington Electronic Institute.

Michael Epperson, son of Lonnie Epperson and Alena Jones, is a 4-year member of the band, and he’s also a member of FBLA.  He wants to go to college and become an accountant.

Jackie Gillum is the daughter of Donnie and Brenda Gillum.  She has been a 2-year flag girl, a reporter for HOSA, manager of the girls’ basketball team, and a member of the pep club.  She hopes to go to college and major in medicine.

Michelle Fugate is a 4-year flag girl for the band and the daughter of Jesse and Marilyn Fugate.  Michelle serves as Flag Captain, as she did last year, as well.  She hopes to attend college and enter the medical field.

Shonna Johnson is the daughter of Charlene Dieringer.  She has been a flag girl for two years, in the chorus, and in art for three years.  Shonna plans to attend Morehead, where she hopes to major in medicine.

There are four senior cheerleaders. 

Angie Brown, daughter of Dennis and Eunice Brown, has been cheering for four years.  She is a member of SADD and is part of the yearbook staff.  Angie enjoys spending time with her friends and cheering for the Bobcats.  She plans to attend UK and become a physician assistant.

Crystal Gabbard is the daughter of Johnny and Frances Gabbard.  She has been cheering for four years and is a member of the National Honor Society.  She said she loved cheering with her friends and helping the Bobcats win football games.  College is part of her future plans. 

Patricia Lynn Lovins is the daughter of Arlie and Joyce Lovins.  Patricia is a 4-year cheerleader, member of SADD, co-editor of the yearbook staff, and president of FBLA.  She enjoys dancing, gymnastics, jumping on the trampoline, and going to the movies.  She hopes to attend college and go into nursing.

Melanie Brook Mullins, daughter of Mark and Wonda Mullins, has been cheering for four years.  She’s a member of SADD, a yearbook staff member, and the vice president of FBLA.  She attended Governor’s School for the Arts, won first place in the region in drama, loves to cheer, likes gymnastics, and enjoys being with her boyfriend, Brad Howard.  Melanie plans to attend college and major in theater and drama.

The Jackson Times, October 15, 1992, page A12

Montgomery County – October 16, 1992 – Loss 7 – 13

Montgomery too strong for Bobcats;

‘Cats travel to Knott Central Friday

By Jack Niece

“We were our own worst enemy.”

That’s the way Coach Holcomb described his Bobcats’ 13-7 loss to Montgomery County Friday night.  A couple of big fumbles dealt the Cats heavy blows.  Hannon coughed the ball up once on Montgomery’s two-yard line, and George Chapman turned it over later just five yards shy of the end zone.

Then there was the long 65-yard touchdown run by Jerry Stevens in the fourth quarter that put the Indians in the lead and sealed their victory.  Going into the game Montgomery was 1-6; Breathitt 3-4.

On a most positive note, the Bobcats got the lead early, on their very first possession in fact.  Receiving the opening kickoff, the Indians executed a couple of good runs on their first two plays followed by John Morton’s 32-yard field goal which put them on the board first Breathitt came right back, put together a good drive, that was capped with George Chapman’s 52-yard touchdown pass to Tim Taulbee.  Nate Poe’s kick was good, and the Cats were in control 7-3 with 6:59 left in the opening round.

There was plenty time to score, but nothing else was put on the board until just before intermission.  That’s when Montgomery kicked a 37-yard field goal that cut Breathitt’s lead to one point, 7-6, with two minutes to go in the half.

Then came one of the Bobcats’ shattering fumbles. 

Montgomery recovered it their own 10.  They got a quick first down, and then Stevens broke loose for that long touchdown run that, for all practical purposes, put the game out of the Cats’ reach.

Holcomb said he had stressed to his team all week that Stevens was an explosive runner.  “We all knew he was gone if he ever got open,” he stated.  “He’s a very fast runner.”

The Indians zeroed in or Harmon holding him to only 84 yards on 21 carries.  Steve Spencer was the leading rusher with 97 yards on 12 dashes. 

Ricky Ritchie went six times for 11 yards, George Chapman four for seven, and Chris Hollon picked up four yards on one carry.  The team rushed for 203 yards on 44 efforts.

Quarterback Chapman completed one of six passes for 52 yards.

With 12 tackles Harmon made a great defensive contribution to the Cats.  Wick Chapman had six tackles, Ricky Ritchie five, Steve Spencer five, and Greg Gross six.

On kick-off returns Rick Ritchie picked up 43 yards on two returns, and Tim Taulbee 27 on two.

Starting the second half it seemed that Breathitt came out and played with renewed determination.  Starting from their own 32, the Cats began pushing right down the field.  Getting two quick first downs that picked up their momentum, they forced their way to Montgomery’s 30-yard line.

It was a four and six situation, and the Cats decided to go for it.  Alas, they didn’t make it.

But they soon got the ball back anyway when they forced an Indian fumble.  Starting the line of scrimmage from the 45, the Bobcats seemed touchdown-bound with a 7-6 lead because they had marched the ball to Montgomery’s five-yard line.  Unfortunately, that was as far as they could go.

Not being able to put the ball on in appeared to break the Cats’ back.  They never initiated another promising drive.

Knott Central Game Friday night the Cats play Knott Central away.  “We need all the support we cancel for that game,” stressed Coach Holcomb.  He emphasized that he hoped a large crowd of fans would support the team in their battle with the Patriots who are now 4-4.

This is an important district game. Three teams are fighting for two spots. Clay and Belfry already have 1st and 2nd.  Third and fourth are up for grabs between Breathitt, Leslie, and Knott Central.

Knott County has some talented players.  Herald does an impressive job quarterbacking the team.  Craft runs the option well; look for tailback Anthony Patrick to make his presence felt, and keep an eye on tight and Jeff Cody.  They’ll be backed up with other talent that’s sure to give Breathitt a run for its money.

All the coaches and players urge their fans to attend Friday’s game to support the Cats in their effort to put this game in the win column.

The Jackson Times, October 22, 1992, page A10

Knott County – October 23, 1992 – Win 36 – 8

Bobcats defeat Knott Central, big district win

By Jack Niece

The Bobcats rushed for 392 yards Friday night against Knott County Central and defeated the Patriots 36-8 to assure themselves a place in the playoffs.

Friday night is another district game, Leslie County.  If the Cats can defeat the Eagles, Breathitt will claim third place in the district.  Coach Holcomb credited the Bobcats’ big win over the Patriots to his team’s mental preparation for the game.  “I think each boy made up his mind to get out and do what it took to get the job done,” he observed.

He also said the win resulted from excellent teamwork, with every person taking care of his responsibility on the field.  Holcomb said he was well-pleased with his team’s determination and the skill they played with in order to win.

Steve Spencer and Latt Hannon each scored a couple of touchdowns, and Kenneth Combs ran one in from 3 yards out.  Nate Poc was successful with 4 PATs, and Waylon Chapman ran the 2-point conversion after Kenneth’s touchdown run.

Harold Craft scored Knott Central’s only touchdown on a 30-yard run in the 2nd quarter, putting the Patriots in front for a short time.  By halftime, though, Breathitt was back in the saddle and never got out again.  Breathitt’s defense played commendably.  Knott Central executed a couple of pretty runs early in the game, but the Cats’ defense lightened up and practically shut them out for the rest of the game.

Holcomb had nothing but good things to say about his team’s defensive efforts; he said he thought Hershel Fugate did a super job inside.  Bobby Hoffman and Joey Stewart also drew words of praise from their coach for well-done jobs.  At defensive ends, Wick Chapman and Steve Spencer played fine games, stressed Holcomb.

At the linebacker position, the contributions of Latt Hannon, Adam Steuerwald, and Chris Gillum did not go unnoticed.  “I thought our linebackers played well.  They did a good job,” continued Holcomb.

So did the guys in the secondary.  Ricky Ritchie, George Chapman, Gregg Gross, and Tim Taulbee covered their positions well.  Their coach said he thought they “just did a great job.”

Harmon ran the ball for 140 yards on 23 carries.  Spencer picked up 125 on 13 dashes.  Ritchie gained 93 on 12 runs.  Chapman rushed for 14 yards, S. Combs 12, E. Combs 2, and Hollon 5.

The Cats started their First touchdown drive in the bottom of the first quarter and completed it with 9:15 left in the 2nd period.  Spencer put the first 6 points on the board with a 1-yard run followed by Poe’s successful kick.  Cats were up 7-0.  Craft’s 30-yard touchdown run and the Patriots’ two-point conversion edged Knott Central up 8-7 for a brief time.

With less than a minute left in the first half, Breathitt went on top 14-8 with Harmon’s 1-yard run and Poe’s kick.  Going into intermission with a 6-point lead was a confidence builder for the Breathitt club.

Both offense and defense continued to play with confidence starting the 2nd half.  That was evidenced by Harmon’s seven-yard touchdown run in the 3rd with 9:34 left to play.

The defense kept Knott Central out of the end zone while Breathitt scored two more touchdowns.  Spencer got one of them and Combs the other, both short runs.

Breathitt and Knott had a 4-5 record after the game.  Holcomb said he thought the offensive line did a great job blocking for the running backs.  They were a big factor in their team’s win, he added.  Those doing a great job on that line were Wick Chapman, Shawn Smith, Shane Carpenter, Gene Duncan, Chris Gillum, Al Collins, and Tim Taulbee.

Harmon, Spencer, and Ritchie rushed for a total of 350 yards.  Holcomb said he thought they all ran hard and played well from start to finish.

George Chapman did his usual good job quarterbacking the team.  “He doesn’t have a lot of fancy stats,” observed Holcomb, “but he does a good job as team quarterback.  He’s always reliable.  We can depend on him.”

Freshman Nate Poe drew some words of praise for a “super job” kicking the ball.

Leslie Game

The Bobcats wind up their regular season Friday night with another district game.  They play Leslie County away.  “It’ll be a big contest for us,” stated Holcomb.

He said his team had been working hard all week getting ready for it.  He said the team would be prepared, and he hopes the fans will be too.  He stated that the fans are badly needed.

Leslie has a fine quarterback in 6-4 Tim Couch.  Collett is a good receiver.  Together, he and Couch make a dangerous combination.  On top of that, they will be well-coached by Anthony Little.

There’s no doubt about it.  The Eagles will be up for the Cats because it is an important district game.  Bobcat fans everywhere are urged to accompany the team to Hyden to help them claim third place in the district.

The Jackson Times, October 29, 1992, page A14

Leslie County – October 30, 1992 – Loss 10 – 26

Eagles sail over Breathitt 26-10

Going into the 4th quarter of the Breathitt – Leslie County game Friday night, the Bobcats trailed only 12-10.  However, in that final round, Leslie scored a couple of touchdowns and won the game 26-10.  That gave Breathitt 4th place in the district.  The Bobcats will be playing Bell County in the playoffs Friday night in Bell County.

The highlight of the game for Breathitt was Ricky Ritchie’s big 88-yard kickoff return that was followed by Nate Poe’s extra point kick that put the Bobcats in front 7-6.

Perle Spurlock scored for the Eagles on a 6-yard touchdown run earlier, taking the first lead of the important playoff game.

With 8:06 to go in the 2nd period, Brian Farmer caught a touchdown pass from Tim Couch to move in front 12-7, the half-time score.  Leslie received to start the 2nd half action, and alter .3 first downs turned the ball over on a 4-2 situation.

Taking over on their own 32, the Bobcats advanced the ball inside Leslie’s 10.  A big play on that drive was a first-down pickup by George Chapman with a keeper on a 4 and 5 situation play.  On the 4th down and 8 yards to go, Coach Holcomb chose to go with a field goal attempt.  Ft was no trouble for Nate Poe.  He put it straight through the uprights, reducing Leslie’s advantage to only 2 points, 12-10.

Breathitt could not get into the end zone again and, by the same token, could not keep Leslie County out.

The Eagles went up 19-10 early in the 4th quarter on a 1-yard run by Jamie Turner and Randall Cobh’s kick.

Receiving the ensuing kickoff, Breathitt fumbled, Leslie recovered it, and six plays later, quarterback Couch completed a 10-yard touchdown pass to Spurlock.  Again, Cobb’s PAT was successful, giving the Eagles their 26-10 victory. 

Coach Holcomb said in his office Tuesday that he felt the score did not truly represent the quality of play the Bobcats put into the game.

“It’s true,” he said, “Leslie played a good game and made some big plays, but it’s also true that we played hard and gave the game a good effort.”

Looking at some of the positive aspects of the game, Holcomb said he thought the kickoff return team played especially well.  Nate Poe did a good job kicking.  He got the field goal and PAT.

Quarterback George Chapman did his usual good job, stressed Holcomb.  He said he thought Chapman led the team especially well; he kept the team’s drives going, and played an overall excellent football game.

Leslie County controlled the ball a lot during the game.  Holcomb said he thought that was a factor in the Eagles’ win.  “They did what we wanted to do,” he pointed out, “and that was to control the ball.”

Bell County Game

Friday night, the Bobcats take on powerful Bell County in the playoffs.  What are the Cats going to have to do to play with Bell?  Coach Holcomb said his team will have to play super football.  “We’ll have to be emotional, and we cannot make any mistakes,” he pointed out Tuesday.  He further said that his squad must play excellent defense and must work hard on defense.  “Too, our kicking game will have to be top quality,” he continued.  “We can’t afford to make any mistakes on any part of our game.”

Every person will have to play their position well, without even one slip-up.

The game will be at 8:00 Friday night in Bell County.  Of course, the coaching stall and all the players invite (in fact urge) all their fans to support them in this playoff game.

The Jackson Times, November 5, 1992, page 15

The Playoffs

Coach Holcomb’s playoff update

Clay County finished their district schedule in 1st place by defeating Belfrey last Friday night and will receive the #1 rating for the playoffs.  Belfrey will be rated #4 after losing to Clay county.

The #3 and #4 slots will be determined by how the Breathitt game turns out with Leslie County this Friday.  If Breathitt wins, we’re rated #3.  If not, give us a #4.

Crossing over to the other district, Bell County has finished as #1, and Cawood is #2.  Whitley County finished #3, with Knox Central as #4.

In the playoffs, the two 4’s will play the two 1’s, while the two 2’s will play the two 3’s.

Bell County will play the LOSER of our game with Leslie County (at Bell County).  Cawood will play the WINNER of the Breathitt vs. Leslie game (at Cawood).  Whitley County will play Belfrey (at Belfry), and Knox Central will play Clay County (at Manchester).

The Breathitt County Voice, October 28,  1992, page B1

Bell County High School- November 6, 1992 – Loss 0 – 34

Bell County too powerful for Bobcats

By Jack Niece

Even though the Bobcats did some things well Friday night against Bell County in the playoffs, and though some individual players had a good game, it was not a good night for the team as a whole.  The Cats were shut out by Bell County 34-0.

Bell, of course, was the Class 3A champs last year, and they are 11-0 this season.  “There’s no doubt about it,” observed Coach Holcomb, “we were beaten by a good football team.  Bell played well and did a bunch of things right.”

On the other hand, he stressed that his own players played hard and did some things well.  “I’m proud of our kids,” he added.  “They gave the game a good shot.  They never gave up.”

He said he was especially proud of the six seniors on the team because they gave a super good effort.  Furthermore, they have put in good effort all year and have set high standards for future Breathitt Bobcats.

So far as the record goes, the team didn’t have a winning season (4-7), but the seniors were winners individually.  They always played hard and had an upbeat attitude, gave each game a good effort, helped pick up each other team members, followed their coaches’ instructions, and remained optimistic.  “We’ll miss them, said their coach.  He stressed that they had helped them learn, and he said he hoped that what they had gained through their high school football would be helpful to them down the road.

The six seniors on the team are Wick Chapman, Steve Spencer, George Chapman, Latt Harmon, Chris Gillum, and Bubba Combs.

Holcomb was pleased with the defensive line performance.  He said there were three sophomores on that line, Bobby Hoffman, Joey Stewart, and Adam Steuerwald, who played exceptionally well.  There were two juniors.  Hershel Fugate and Shawn Smith stood out, too.

“Our kids felt bad about losing,” Holcomb said, “but they were still upbeat on the way home from the game.” Talking about the game in the gym earlier this week, he added that he is already looking forward to next season, and so are his returning team members.

The future of football at Breathitt High looks promising.  Five freshmen played in one varsity game this season.  As though that is not encouraging, look at these stats.  The freshmen ended their season with an 8-1 record, J.V.’s was 7-2, and SMS was 10-1.

In the Breathitt-Bell game, the Bobcats had trouble generating much offense.  In the first half, Latt Hannon rushed six times for 29 yards; Ricky Ritchie gained nine on five dashed, and Steve Spencer got six yards on three carries.

On a more positive offensive note, Tim Taulbee made a sensational catch on Breathitt’s 2nd possession and ran the ball 35 yards to Bell’s 20-yard line.

Unfortunately, that was followed by a Bobcat fumble which Bell recovered.  On the Cats’ two other possessions in the first quarter, they did not get a first down and were forced to punt on four and five situations.

Bell scored on their first possession following an 86-yard touchdown drive.  They found the end zone early in the second quarter and again laic in the period to give them a 21-0 half-time advantage.

Breathitt initiated a good drive on their first possession in the second quarter, picking up three first downs.  On a four and ten situation, they decided to go for it, but the effort failed.

Bell took over on their own 45 and soon scored their 3rd touchdown.

A couple of other times in the 4th quarter, the Cats failed in their effort when they decided to go for it on fourth-down plays.

Reggie Robbins scored first for Bell on an 18-yard run.  Carter’s kick was good.  Darrin Thomas then ran from one yard out.  Robbins scored again, this time on a 5-yard run.  That set the stage for Ray Stepp’s pass from Derek Jones.  Then came Stepp’s 30-yard pass from Jones.  Carter kicked 4 PATs.

The Jackson Times, November 12, 1992, page 11

Den Addition Needed One More Boost

Stadium Addition nearly finished, but help is needed for furnace

A few months ago, a group started working on a Stadium Addition to provide a weight room, conference room, and other needed space for the Breathitt High football team.

School officials, Coach Mike Holcomb, interested people from the business community, and others joined the Football Boosters in raising money, supplies, or in-kind help to make this facility possible.  The response from the community was very gratifying, according to Superintendent Hargus Rogers and Ed Raleigh of the administrative staff who ramrodded the project.  Anyone could make a contribution, no matter how large or small, at either local bank.

About $55,000 was needed.  With the fixtures in place and the walls going up, everyone could see the progress.  The last blocks were laid this week.  Walls are up!  Yesterday, the trusses went in place, and by week’s end, the building should be under roof, but it will need heat.  To provide the furnace and take care of some other minor details, another $19,000 to $20,000 is needed, besides some additional things the school board plans to do.

Coach Holcomb said when the plans were drawn, he feared there would not be enough space, but now he’s sure the space is adequate, and his team is anxious to get in there and start working out.  Football is now a year-round sport because it takes almost constant training to build athletes.  Team members even helped with the project by carrying blocks and providing some other labor.  Holcomb is proud of them.

This is a project we can all see at the football field.  If you didn’t help when the project started, there’s still time because of the need.  Primarily, it’s for the furnace.  If you can help some more or for the first time, the football program needs this facility.  The weight room will be used by school children in other sports too.  It will be available to the public at times when it’s not being used by the sports players.

This is not just for today’s athletes; it’s for elementary and middle school children coming on.  If you can help, just donate personally or by mail to Citizens Bank & Trust Co. or The First National Bank of Jackson.  Make checks or money orders payable to Breathitt Football Boosters.  All contributions are tax-deductible.

Do something nice for our kids today.  Help finish the Stadium Addition!

The Jackson Times, November 19, 1992, page 2

Banquet Scheduled

Stadium Addition On Schedule

BHS Stadium Addition construction on schedule

By Jack Niece

Supt. Hargus Rogers, Coach Mike Holcomb, and Buildings and Grounds Director Ed Raleigh gave an upbeat report on the new football facility to a committee of interested supporters at noon Wednesday.

The building is nearing completion thanks to support from many people and organizations in the county, stated Rogers.  He said he was especially grateful for every contribution each person has made to the much-needed facility.  Whether a person gave money or labor, he said each was appreciated.

In the process of almost completing the structure, the Boosters Club has run out of money, with one major purchase yet to be made.  That’s the furnace.  It will heat the new building as well as the old workout area.

The furnace is expected to cost $18-20,000.00.  In connection with the upcoming expenses, Supt. Rogers said he would ask the Board to chip in some dollars.

Coach Holcomb said he was very excited about the speed with which the new building is going up.  It’s true it took a while to get it started, but after it did get started, it went up in a hurry.  Following the pouring of the footer, Henson Concrete and Construction Company took over and completed the building to this point.  Reportedly, the company is doing a fine job.  The walls are up, the door jambs are in place, and the beams have been set.

Holcomb said his football players are thrilled with the building and looking forward to its completion.  They hope to be able to start using it in December.  The building will not be limited to football, according to Holcomb.  He said basketball and baseball can also use it.

“We have had a lot of community support on our building, which we certainly appreciate,” said Holcomb.

Stressing the importance of a building such as the one going up, Supt. Rogers pointed out that basketball and football are no longer seasonal sports.  “They are year-round,” he said.  “You have to work all year to compete at the regional level much less the state level.”

Following the noon meal at Breathitt High, where the various reports were given, the committee was invited to go to the new workout building to see the progress being made.  The facility will have a large workout room, a storage room, a conference room, and an office for the football coach.

Anyone who is interested is inclined to drop by the BHS Campus to see that the building is taking shape quickly.  Anyone who would like to donate to its completion can do so through any Booster Club member, at the front office of the high school building, or any local bank.

The Jackson Times, November 19, 1992, page 1

Football Banquet

Gillum, Chapman, Harmon receive awards

BHS Hosts 1992 Football Banquet

By David Strong

The Breathitt County Board of Education, Breathitt High School, Coach Mike Holcomb, and his staff held their 1992 Football Banquet at the BHS cafeteria Sunday afternoon.  Before a packed audience, emcee Scott McCoun opened the ceremonies of the two-hour event at 1:30 p.m.

Following the traditional BHS ceremonial meal, which had been beautifully prepared by Breathitt High School cooks, the first speaker was introduced: Breathitt School Superintendent Hargus Rogers. 

“Sometimes your (football) record just doesn’t wind up at the end of the season like you’d hoped or even anticipated,” said Rogers.  “As in life, many times there is a missed tackle, there is missed execution, there is a dropped pass that should have been caught, and so goes your ballgame.  It’s very easy for the critics, the Monday morning quarterbacks, to say if this had happened, or if that had happened, look where we’d have been.”

Rogers spelled out a message of “HOPE” using alphabet symbology: “H” for hard work; “O” for optimism and organization; “P” for being prepared, having pride and practice, practice, practice; “E” for enthusiasm and the ability to execute.

BHS Cheerleading Sponsor Karen Griffith had many good things to say about cheerleaders, Coach Holcomb, and the football team (as a whole).  She also related anecdotes about the football seniors (individually) and presented each of them with keepsake booklets filled with personalized comments.

Coach Mike Holcomb opened his segment of the program with comments of appreciation to emcee Scott McCoun for the fine job he did this season with his “Sports Talk” radio show.

He also issued an official “thank you” to the following people: the Breathitt Board of Education, the high school administration, basketball coach James Turner, school custodians, the cooking staff, the Breathitt County Ambulance Service, Jackson Fire Department, Breathitt Sheriff’s Office, Jackson City Police Department, the Kentucky State Police, Dr. Robert Cornett, Quality Home Supply, Jack Niece of The Jackson Times, David Strong of The Breathitt County Voice, WEKG/WJSN radio station, Sam Faulkner, Mike Stidham, the Football Boosters Club, the BHS Band, the BHS cheerleaders, Stacy McKnight, and anybody else that helped the football program in any way this season.

Of his team, Holcomb said, “Stepping off the field and being on top in the score is always the greatest feeling in the world.  Walking off the field being on the short end (of the score), but knowing our kids laid it on the line and gave it everything they could, then that don’t bother me at all… I know our kids have done that.  It’s been a lot of fun.”

All the seniors were presented with a nice wooden plaque, a football jersey of their old number, and a Breathitt High School football cap.

Only three awards were given in football this year.  The 110% Award was presented to Chris Gillum.  The Leadership Award was presented to George Chapman, and the Most Valuable Player Award for the 1992 football season went to Latt Harmon.

The Breathitt County Voice, November 25, 1992, page 18

Post Season Awards

Latt Harmon selected to All Mountain Sr. Football team

The 1992 edition of Big Dipper Sports’ Mountain Sports View’s All Mountain Senior Football Team has been announced, and the players were honored on Super Bowl Sunday in Hazard, Kentucky, with an Awards Banquet held in their honor.

The team is comprised of thirty-five players from various schools across the mountains.  In addition, there were four Academic Award winners, “Coach of the Year” honors and a special presentation made to Mrs. John Bastolla and her son John of Fleming Neon.

The players and their schools are J.D Harris, Rockcastle Co., Jon Evans, Cumberland, Charles Tinsley, Cumberland, Phillip While, Cumberland; Vic Hyland, Clay County, John Hollin, Lynn Camp, Derek Jones, Bell County, Darrin Clark, Bell County, Chad Fleming, Jenkins, Johnny Mullins, Jenkins, Landry Collett, Leslie County, LATT HARMON, BREATHITT COUNTY, Stephen Baker, M.C. Napier, Jason Rose, Whitesburg, Geoff Cody, Knott County Central, Harold Craft, Knott County Central, Jeremy Gross, Fleming Neon, Lincoln Bentley, Fleming Neon, John Henry Hall, Fleming Neon, Mikey Paul Quillen, Fleming Neon, Joey Kilburn Hazard, Tom Statzer, Hazard, Chuck Parsons, Hazard, Pat Turner, Hazard, Jesse Watts.  Sheldon Clark, Nathan Elswick, Pikeville, J.P. Blair, Pikeville, Chase Goodman, Pikeville, Muntu Oden, Wheelwright, Mark Bogar, Belfry, Matt Varney, Belfry, Chris Kiser, Shelby Valley, Joe Williams, Elkhorn City, Aaron Tucker, Prestonsburg and Todd Clark, Prestonsburg.  The Academic Award winners were Derek Jones, Vic Hyland, Nathan Elswick, and Matt Varney.

Paul “The General” Rains of the Hazard Bulldogs was named “Coach of the Year” by his peers.  Rains led Hazard to its first unbeaten regular season in thirty years, and the Bulldogs held the Associated Press number one Class A ranking for the last seven weeks of the regular season.

Hazard finished 11-1 on the year.

In 1991, a special award was given for the very first time.  The “Grid Iron Award” was presented to an Eastern Kentuckian for their outstanding dedication and support of high school football in the mountains.

This year, the award was presented to Ella and John Edward Bastolla, wife and son of the late John Bastolla, who passed away recently.  In recognition of his lifetime of dedication and support of Eastern Kentucky student-athletes, the award will forever read “The John Bastolla Grid Iron Award.”

The Jackson Times, February 4, 1993, page 16

Addition Work Continues into the New Year

Football addition almost completed

By Jack Niece

The new football addition is nearing completion thanks to a bunch of recently donated labor.

Though the addition is “nearing completion,” according to Coach Mike Holcomb, there is still much work to be done.  “We need help with painting and carpet laying especially,” he stressed earlier this week.  He said he and the boosters’ club still needed and would surely appreciate donated labor and money for materials.

The sheetrock is in place now, thanks to Conley Trent, Greg Hollon, Phillip Hollon, and Clarence Stamper.

Before that was nailed up, Ernie Turner and several Bobcats helped install insulation.  “We’ve had a lot of help in recent weeks,” stressed Holcomb, “and we appreciate what everybody has done.”

David Danner and Jeremy Rice did a good job when they textured the drywall.

Water fountains are now in place, the doors are up, and the wiring has been run.

The next big job is getting the heat in.  After completing that, Holcomb said the other jobs should fall in place fast.

He added that donations had come in “pretty well” recently, for which he expressed sincere appreciation.

Pointing out that Breathitt High football has a bunch of friends in the county, Holcomb said he and the other coaches, the players, administrators, and the football boosters were all very grateful for all that’s been done for the new football addition.

He stated that anyone who would like to contribute either labor or money toward the completion of the building can do so by seeing him or the principal, P. R. Herald, at the high school.

“We want as many as possible to share in our dream of helping make our new addition a reality,” Holcomb concluded.

The Jackson Times, January 21, 1993, page 19

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The excitement surrounding the construction of a new training facility for the Bobcats brought a spark to the Bobcats. Sadly, they lost their playoff game with Bell County, but their hopes were high for their young team and the effort they showed. Many believed that Breathitt’s best years lay ahead and that the opportunities the new space could bring would prove worth the investment. All that was needed was a team willing to work harder than any other in the state and the confidence that winning brings.

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© 2024 Stephen D. Bowling