25 Facts About Crest High School Football

The Legacy of Crest High School Football

Crest High School Football has a rich history filled with memorable moments, legendary players, and remarkable achievements. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this storied program.

1. Crest High School, located in Shelby, North Carolina, has a football program that dates back to the 1960s.
2. The team is known as the Chargers, a name that symbolizes their electrifying play on the field.
3. Crest High School's football team has won multiple state championships, with their first title coming in 1994.
4. The Chargers have a fierce rivalry with Shelby High School, known as the "Battle of Buffalo Creek."
5. Crest's football program has produced numerous college athletes, many of whom have gone on to play at Division I schools.

Notable Players and Coaches

The success of Crest High School Football can be attributed to the talented players and dedicated coaches who have been part of the program over the years.

6. David Thompson, a standout player from the 1970s, went on to have a successful career at North Carolina State University.
7. Coach Roy Kirby led the Chargers to their first state championship in 1994, cementing his legacy in Crest football history.
8. Jonathan Bullard, a defensive end who graduated in 2012, played college football at the University of Florida and was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the NFL.
9. Coach Mark Barnes, who took over in 2013, has continued the tradition of excellence, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances.
10. Tre Harbison, a running back who graduated in 2016, played college football at Northern Illinois University and later transferred to Charlotte.

Memorable Games and Seasons

Crest High School Football has had its share of unforgettable games and seasons that have left a lasting impact on the community.

11. The 1994 state championship game saw the Chargers defeat the Richmond Raiders in a thrilling 21-20 victory.
12. In 2003, Crest went undefeated in the regular season, finishing with a perfect 16-0 record and winning the state championship.
13. The 2014 season was another standout year, with the Chargers capturing the state title and finishing with a 15-1 record.
14. Crest's 2015 team also made history by winning back-to-back state championships, a rare feat in high school football.
15. One of the most memorable games in recent history was the 2018 playoff matchup against Kings Mountain, where the Chargers won in double overtime.

Community Support and Traditions

The Crest High School Football program is deeply rooted in the community, with strong support from fans and a number of cherished traditions.

16. Home games at Sid Bryson Stadium are a major event, drawing large crowds of enthusiastic fans.
17. The Charger Club, a booster organization, plays a crucial role in supporting the football program through fundraising and volunteer efforts.
18. Each year, the team holds a "Meet the Chargers" night, where fans can interact with players and coaches.
19. The annual homecoming game is a highlight of the season, featuring a parade and various festivities.
20. Crest's marching band, known as the "Charger Regiment," provides spirited performances at every game, adding to the electric atmosphere.

Impact Beyond the Field

Crest High School Football has made a significant impact beyond the field, influencing the lives of players and the broader community.

21. Many former players have gone on to successful careers in various fields, crediting their time with the Chargers for instilling discipline and teamwork.
22. The football program emphasizes academic achievement, with many players excelling in the classroom as well as on the field.
23. Crest High School Football has been involved in numerous community service projects, giving back to the Shelby area.
24. The program has a strong focus on character development, teaching players important life skills such as leadership and perseverance.
25. Alumni often return to support the team, creating a strong sense of family and tradition that spans generations.

Final Whistle

Crest High School football has a rich history filled with memorable moments and remarkable achievements. From record-breaking players to unforgettable games, the team has consistently demonstrated excellence on and off the field. The dedication of the players, coaches, and fans has created a strong community spirit that continues to thrive. Whether you're a long-time supporter or new to the team, there's always something exciting happening with Crest High football. Keep an eye on the upcoming season for more thrills and victories. The legacy of Crest High football is built on hard work, teamwork, and a passion for the game. Here's to many more years of success and celebration.