Banks breaks decade long drought with winning season

Banks started the season in the hole, losing the opener and the first region game to Washington-Wilkes (14-39) and Riverside (28-56). The Leopards picked up its first win against Dawson County (48-27) followed by a win over Rabun County (35-6). A loss to North Oconee (7-12) did little to slow the Leopards as they continued and swept East Jackson (42-0).

Adding to the feats of the season was the Jefferson game where Banks held on as the 8-AA region champions would slip by only two scores ahead, 34-22. Banks was only one of two teams to come within two touchdowns of undefeated Jefferson during the regular season. North Oconee fell to Jefferson 17-16.

The Leopards carried their last three games with at least 21 points over each opponent. Fannin County fell to Banks 34-13, followed by a Banks County Halloween treat 42-20 over Oglethorpe.

The last regular season game was make or break it for the Leopards, as the bus rolled into the mountains to take on Union County. Walking away with a 34-13 win the players were extremely excited as they made the trip to the playoffs.

With a winning season and knowledge that a playoff trip can be attained, next year’s Leopards have a foundation to build from.

For more on the Calhoun game see Thursday's edition of The Banks County News.