Apalachee (Ga.) football squad honored as an Army National Guard The Next Greatest Generation Team of the Year

The Apalachee (Ga.) high school football team has been named an Army National Guard Next Greatest Generation Teams of the Year, following its response to the tragic death of assistant football coach Richard Aspinwall.

To honor his legacy, the Wildcats dedicated their season to his memory, wearing “Coach A” shirts under their uniforms as a tribute to his lasting impact. The NFL’s Atlanta Falcons also recognized their tribute by wearing Apalachee shirts during warmups before a game last season.

Athletic director Ralph Neely praised the unbreakable spirit of the team and believes they are working hard to carry on Aspinwall’s exemplary leadership.

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“The challenges these young men have endured over the last year have been overwhelmingly tough, but they are learning how to handle those challenges with strength and grace,” he said. “We have a long road ahead of us in the healing process. Knowing that others, both locally and nationally, are there to support us and celebrate with us the small steps of progress is extremely helpful. Being able to continue to recognize Coach Aspinwall is a big part of our recovery process. His mentorship of our football players is his strongest legacy. Coach A epitomized being a husband, father, teacher and coach, and our young men were shown that order of priorities through him.”

They hosted On3, as well as members of the Army National guard, as the school. And Neely believes that their ability to welcome others into their community is another trait that reflects what Aspinwall brought to their program.

“Being able to host On3 and the Army National Guard here at Apalachee showed one of our biggest strengths: hospitality,” Neely added. “Our staff and students represent our community well and we welcome all opportunities to show everyone the positive aspects of THE CHEE.”