BARNESVILLE, GA – Under the lights of Thunder Alley, the heart and determination of the Lamar County boys were on full display tonight in the Elite 8 of the GHSA State Playoffs for Class A Division 1. After an incredible win over Metter last week, the Trojans faced a talented opponent in the Whitefield Academy Wolfpack, a private school located in Smyrna.
The match began with the Wolfpack taking an early lead, scoring their first goal at 27:15 with a well-placed header. However, the Trojans’ resilience shone brightly as senior goalkeeper Cayden Good made a spectacular save at 22:00, showcasing his agility and commitment. Although Whitefield managed to extend their lead to 2-0 shortly thereafter, the Trojans continued to battle.
Lamar County’s Caleb Miller, a junior known for his soccer prowess, took a penalty kick that nearly could have changed the game’s momentum. Despite his powerful shot, the Wolfpack’s goalkeeper managed an impressive save, keeping the score at 2-0. As the game progressed, the Trojans struggled to maintain possession in the offensive half, largely due to the powerful clears from Whitefield’s goalkeeper, who consistently forced play back into Lamar County’s territory. His foot was a difference-maker in the contest.
As the first half neared its conclusion, Whitefield capitalized on their opportunities, widening the gap to 4-0. Despite the halftime score, the Trojans walked off at halftime hopeful, remembering their previous comeback against the Metter Tigers just a week earlier.
The second half saw a relentless Whitefield team continue to press offensively. Cayden Good stayed busy in goal, but he denied Whitefield of several other potential goals. His athleticism was particularly notable at 9:32, when he dove to deflect a dangerous shot out of bounds, a move followed by another crucial save from a challenging corner kick.
Whitefield ultimately secured their victory with a final goal following a corner kick, concluding the match at 6-0. Despite the score, the Trojans ended their season with much to be proud of, displaying undying perseverance and team spirit.
This game also highlighted a broader challenge faced by smaller community teams like Lamar County in competing against well-resourced private schools from metropolitan areas. With a community of just 19,000, the Trojans’ efforts against an established private institution within a metro area of 6 million display the significant disparities in resources and support. The athletic talent pool in Atlanta is extremely dense, and private institutions have a unique ability to attract top talent to their small, private establishments. These conditions create an uphill battle for public schools in smaller communities, yet teams like Lamar County continue to rise and represent their towns with pride.
As the season closes, the Lamar County High School Boys soccer team not only reflected the athletic talents of its members but also the enduring spirit and pride of Trojan Nation. They’ve had a season to remember, filled with moments of brilliance that will inspire future Trojans for years to come.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
