Heather Bell
RADFORD – The Radford High School Bobcats capped off a 15-0 season with the Class 2 Finals 39-21 win over Riverheads on Sat. Dec. 9.
The stands were packed with over 4,000 fans dressed in black and gold at Salem Municipal Field to watch Radford win its first state championship in more than 50 years.
Wednesday, many of those fans came down to West Main Street to cheer on their team once again in a parade to commemorate the state championship.
Lifelong Radford resident Gary Harris, commander of VFW Post 776, and his brother, Ken “Harry” Harris, have been watching the Bobcats play for 63 and 73 years respectively. They participated in the parade in Gary’s car, adorned with the American flag and signs of support.
“Anytime you see your team win a championship it is great,” said Gary. “My brother, Ken, saw all three. This was my first as I was in the military for the first two. It was a great season, and I did make up for all the lost good times.”
Following the state championship, Radford Mayor David Horton released a statement of support.
“Radford is incredibly proud of our Bobcats,” he said. “This state championship is the result of hard work and dedication and indicative of the values our community holds dear – perseverance, determination, ingenuity, and heart. Often this season it felt like a David vs Goliath scenario with our Bobcats as an underdog, but they never gave up and found a way to come out on top. We are so proud of all our students in Radford City Public Schools, their teachers, coaches, and mentors.”
“After 51 years the return to this pinnacle of success is welcome,” said Horton, “and is such a positive feeling throughout the city. Together as we support each other and strive to be our best, there is nothing we cannot accomplish.”
