The 2008 year offered a lot of ups and downs for the local teams as Banks County athletes competed on the fields, tracks, mats and courts.
Leopard fans, athletes and parents have a number of memories from the year that will live in the clippings and trophies demonstrating the accomplishments of student athletes from the past year. While a lot of memories of accomplishments were made this year, 2008 also had some marked challenges for the Leopard athletes, but through the outpouring of support of the community, the students pulled together to rise above the hardships.
In no particular order, here are the top stories from 2008.
For the complete summary of each top story see the January 1 edition of The Banks County News.
•Diamond Leopards break seven season playoff drought
The Leopards’ baseball program under the guidance of coach Joe Lord entered into the state competition as the number three seed after regrouping against Washington-Wilkes and falling to 8-AA region champion North Oconee.
•Gridiron Leopards return to state after 11-season hiatus
Banks County’s football program returned to the Class AA state playoffs for the first time in over a decade.
•Ashley Force makes history at Atlanta Dragway
It was a family affair, as iconic 14-time funny car champ John Force faced off against his daughter, 26-year old Ashley, in the final round of Funny Car competition in the Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway.
•Harn takes two titles at the GHSA state track meet
2008 senior Jay Harn captured first place in both the 200-meter and 800-meter events in the wheelchair competition at the GHSA state track meet in Jefferson.
•Cross country makes it to state race in Carrollton
Banks County’s cross-country team has a lot of reasons to be proud about the 2008 season.
•Banks County breaks in new sporting complex
Following months of work, the finished sports complex was unveiled in a dedication ceremony on Feb. 29.
•Leopard community comes together
The Banks County community showed an outpouring of support during a dark time.
A traffic accident in August claimed the life of Banks County High School junior Cody Gowder. In response the Leopard family came together to help the teammates, friends and family cope with the sudden loss.
