Some football teams are unforgettable. They play with heart, they play with soul, and they bring people together. One of those teams? Appomattox County High School’s football team. Their journey over the years has been a wild ride filled with buzzer-beaters, championships, and unforgettable moments.
Let’s take a walk down memory lane and look at the top football moments that define the legacy and spirit of Appomattox County. These moments aren’t just about the wins—they’re about effort, teamwork, and pride. Buckle up, because we’re about to get loud, proud, and pumped up!
1. The 2015 State Championship – A Dream Realized
Who could forget 2015? That was the year everything changed for Appomattox. The Raiders made their way to the VHSL Group 2A State Championship—and won!
- Final score: Appomattox 38 – Stuarts Draft 35
- The game was a nail-biter until the final whistle.
- It was the first time in school history they brought home the state title.
The crowd at Liberty University’s stadium went wild. Fans, families, and alumni were on their feet. The players were crying, laughing, and hugging. That win wasn’t just about football—it was about belief.
2. Back-to-Back-to-Back Champs: 2015-2017
Winning once is special. Winning three years in a row? That’s legendary.
After the initial win in 2015, the Raiders didn’t slow down. They kept dominating.
- 2016: Beat Giles 40-0 in a dominating performance.
- 2017: Took down Graham with a 31-21 win.
- Every year, the team looked stronger, faster, and more united.
The secret? Hard work + great coaching + team chemistry. That three-peat sealed their place in Virginia high school football history.
3. The 90-Yard Kickoff Return That Shocked Everyone
During a tense playoff game in 2016, Appomattox found themselves in a tight spot. The opposing team was gaining momentum. Then came the magic moment.
The whistle blew. The ball soared. Senior wide receiver Terry Morgan caught the kickoff at the 10-yard line. And he ran… and ran… and scored.
90 yards. Just like that, the tide changed. The stands erupted. That moment reminded everyone why they loved football—it only takes one play to change everything.
4. The “Fourth Down Miracle” Against Glenvar
In 2018, the Raiders were in a playoff battle against Glenvar. With just 20 seconds left, they were facing a fourth down from the 25-yard line. The crowd was silent. It was do-or-die.
Quarterback Jonathan Penn stepped back, dodged three rushers, and threw a perfect spiral into the end zone. Tight end Marcus Wright jumped and made the catch!
Touchdown. Game over. Appomattox wins and moves on.
That clutch play showcased two things the Raiders are known for: never giving up and delivering under pressure.
5. A Defense Like a Brick Wall in 2019
Offense wins games, but defense wins championships. And Appomattox proved that in 2019.
Here’s what made their defense unforgettable:
- Only 8 points allowed per game on average
- Multiple shutouts during the season
- Pressure from the front line and smart plays by the secondary
With players like linebacker Jyair Bradshaw and safety Chris Ferguson locking things down, very few teams could get past the 50-yard line.
6. Winning the 2020 State Championship in a Pandemic
2020 was a year like no other. COVID-19 changed the world. Sports seasons were paused, shortened, or canceled. But Appomattox stayed focused.
Despite the challenges, the Raiders kept practicing, stayed safe, and fought hard. And it paid off. They went undefeated and won their fourth state title in six years.
That championship wasn’t just about athletic success. It was a testimony to resilience, adaptability, and community spirit.
7. The Homecoming Game That Made History
The 2021 homecoming game against Radford is still talked about around town. Why? Because it marked 50 consecutive home wins for the Raiders. That’s right—fifty!
In front of packed stands and under bright Friday night lights, Appomattox delivered a masterclass in high school football. The final score? 42-7. It wasn’t just a win. It was domination.
8. A Team Led by Generations
One thing that’s rare and special about Appomattox football? How many families have passed the torch through generations.
- Fathers coaching sons
- Uncles cheering on their nephews
- Former players returning to coach or help the team
This kind of legacy builds something stronger than just a team. It builds a football family. And that family keeps growing, year after year.
9. Fan Traditions That Bring the Town Together
It’s not all about touchdowns and tackles. It’s also about the people in the stands.
- Marching band performing with passion
- Alumni tailgating and swapping old stories
- Kids painting their faces in team colors: black and Columbia blue
- The famous halftime “mini Raider” scrimmages
These traditions are what make Appomattox football special. It’s more than a game—it’s a weekly celebration of community spirit.
10. Coach Doug Smith – The Man Behind the Magic
If there’s one name you should know, it’s Coach Doug Smith. He’s been the heart of this program for many years. Under his leadership, Appomattox transformed from an average team to a state powerhouse.
- 5 state championships under his watch
- Known for developing young talent and strong discipline
- Seen by players as a mentor and father figure
Coach Smith’s impact can’t be measured in wins alone. He’s about values, hard work, and pushing kids to be their best—on and off the field.
The Spirit Lives On
As time goes on, more and more legendary moments will be added to Appomattox’s history. But these top moments? They’re the foundation. They’re why fans wear their Raider gear with pride. They’re why teams take the field knowing they’re playing for something bigger than themselves.
Whether you’re a current student, a proud parent, or a Raider alum yelling from the stands, one thing’s for sure:
The legacy of Appomattox football is alive, strong, and unstoppable.