There's two sides to every story. For Dillon, the 2008 State Championship game was exciting, exhilarating, and overwhelming. For Central, it was heartbreaking.
The Upper State champion Eagles lost 7-6, leaving one of the most talented senior classes ever at Pageland without a ring. But head coach Joey Mangum says he's been pleased with how the team has bounced back after that disappointing loss.
"I can't have asked more from the kids," said Mangum. "They've been working so hard in the summer and in the early fall. It's because they know they have a chance to get back there."
Despite heavy losses, including six players to Division 1 schools, the cupboard is not bare. Mangum says TE/DE Kagan Funderburke is one of the best players he's coached in his 37 year career.
"He could be a Division 1 basketball player, he's that talented. I believe he really has a chance to play on Sundays."
The biggest problem for Central will be overcoming an o-line oddity - last year Central graduated nine offensive lineman, all of whom saw major minutes.
"They were with me for four years, so I had to play them," said Mangum. "It just means we have a lot of guys left who haven't played. The key for us this season will be our offensive line, no doubt."
If Central can figure out the five guys up front, then they have a shot at being the class of the Upper State again.
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