The cafeteria was decorated with signs of support.
As BCHS Principal said during remarks at Thursday's pep rally honoring the boys cross country team, it's not every year a school wins a state title. Since becoming Bleckley County High School all the state titles had come in girls sports, two in competition cheerleading and one in track.
Team members take a minute to pose during the reception.
Last Saturday, that changed. The boys cross country team won the program's first team state title in convincing fashion, all seven runners were in the top 17. It was also the first boys sports state title since becoming BCHS.
Runners waited in the bleachers and were called down one by one.
Thursday was a day to honor the champions. A reception for both teams and their families was held in the media center earlier that afternoon. Around 2:35, students filed into the gym. Game squad cheerleaders and the Royal Kingsmen Band were on hand to fire up the crowd.
Cranford said he loved each of the runners like they were his own.
After some cheers and remarks by Belflower, Debbie Caldwell introduced the boys team members. The biggest cheer came for individual state champion Carl Ellis Corley. Shelly Cranford then spoke. He thanked administrators and everyone who supported the team this season.
The tem stands as the alma matter is played.
Cranford said a key to success is working all the time in whatever sport or activity you do. He said bringing home a cross country state title had been a dream during his 27 years of coaching. Cranford encouraged everyone to follow their dreams wherever they lead.
