Blacksburg coach resigns abruptly
Blanton resigns as coach but wants to stay as school's A.D.
By LARRY HILLIARD Ledger Sports Editor larry@gaffneyledger.com

ROBBIE BLANTON

Robbie Blanton resigned abruptly Wednesday as football coach at Blacksburg High School, but wants to remain as the school's athletic director.

Blanton, who compiled a 39-61 record in nine seasons as coach, said he wasn't pressured into the decision but added it was time for the program to go in a new direction.

In his final season as coach, the Wildcats were 3-7 and failed to qualify for postseason play.

Blanton said he relinquished his coaching duties because he wanted to spend more time with the school's other sports.

Blanton is the only Region II-2A football coach to also serve as the school's athletic director.

He informed the school district of his decision Wednesday morning. He notified his staff Wednesday morning and held a meeting with his team in the afternoon.

Blanton faced a rebuilding job when he replaced Gene Cooksey, who resigned after a short stint at the school.

Blanton posted a 2-9 record in his first year and improved to 5-6 in 2000. The team finished .500 in 2001, setting the stage for the Wildcats 10-0 regular season and region championship in 2002.

But the Wildcats have lost 39 of their last 54 games, leading to unrest among some Blacksburg High fans.

The Wildcats did qualify for the playoffs eight times under Blanton, who is a graduate of Blacksburg High School.

Blanton cited the 2002 season and his selection as an assistant coach for this year's North-South All-Star game as his career highlights.

Cherokee County Superintendent Dr. Bill James said the district will follow the same hiring process as when Phil Strickland was hired at Gaffney.

The opening will be posted. Applicants will then be interviewed before a new coach is selected.

The new coach will inherit a team that will return most of its skill position players, including leading rusher Brandon Wilson.