Corley, Gladiators win 8-AAAA title

“I have been fortunate to end up in a place that has the tradition and history of Clarke Central,” Corley told the Barrow Journal Monday night. “It has been nice to be a part of this. The kids have really worked hard. It has been special to be able to go through the region undefeated. It’s something they’ve not done sine 1985. We certainly hope to keep it rolling.”

Corley, now the associate head coach/defensive backs coach for Clarke Central, was the WBHS head coach in 2008 and 2009 and previously was the team’s defensive coordinator.

The game with Flowery Branch became one of the most anticipated matchups of the 2010 campaign as the regular season continued with both teams undefeated. The Gladiators and Falcons both entered last Friday’s game 9-0 and were pretty much unchallenged throughout the year.

“We were concerned with their quick strike capability,” Corley said. “They had been scoring in bunches all year. They made some plays on us but we were able to make tackles. When it came to making the necessary plays, our guys rose to the occasion.”

Now it’s playoff time for Corley, the Clarke Central coaches and players.

“I haven’t had this chance since 2003,” he said. “The intensity level rises a little bit. You can feel it when you go out for practice. I feel very fortunate to be in this position. We hope to keep it rolling.”