Collinsville Celebrates 100 Years Of Football
Collinsville High School holds the distinction of having the oldest football program in Dekalb County. In fact, the 2019 season marks the 100th year of football for the Panthers. A century ago, October 13, 1920 to be exact, the Panthers battled Jacksonville State University – yes, you read that right – to a 20-0 loss. But according to local lore, the JSU connection doesn’t end there.
When JSU changed their mascot from the Eagle Owls to the Fighting Gamecocks in 1947, they also changed their colors from Blue and Gold to Red and White. It is said the new colors of choice were due to the influence of Earl Roberts, Irby “Syrupy” Cash, James Gilliland, John Smith and Kenneth Smith, otherwise known as “The Collinsville Five.” The five Panther legends not only played at JSU at the same time; they were letterman.
It goes without saying that the game has changed significantly since the early days. Coach Ernie Willingham’s spread offense and multiple look 3-4 defense would seem quite foreign to those early teams. However, Willingham’s tactics have shown success and the 2019 version of the Panthers could be the school’s best team yet.
“We have 19 starting positions returning with some others stepping into starting roles,” said Willingham. Among those 19 returning starters are four all-state players. But while the Panthers are one of the more experienced teams in the area across their starting lineup, the bench is a concern. According to Willingham, “We are not very deep so staying injury free will be a key for us.”
All concerns aside, Willingham likes the attitude of his team and feels that it was a key to the team’s success last year and will be crucial if the Panthers are to make history in this otherwise historical season. “Last year we were hungry for success and our body language and team chemistry was great,” said Willingham. “For us to have the kind of year we all want, we must maintain that fire and come together as a team.”
All signs point to the Panthers having much to be excited about as they reach the 100th birthday of their football program. Collinsville has several special activities planned to celebrate their football program reaching the century mark and you can contact the school for more details. The Panthers kick off their 100th year of football at 7:00 pm on August 23rd at Plainview.