Welcome home, coach
Blacksburg's new football mentor a familiar face
By JOE L. HUGHES II Ledger Staff Writer joe@gaffneyledger.com

Ledger photo / JOE L. HUGHES II New Blacksburg football coach Mickey Moss (center) and his wife Cathy speak with one of many town residents present at a ceremony welcoming him back home.

A capacity crowd filled the Blacksburg community house Sunday to welcome a native son home.

Town officials, former coaches and school personnel were among those in attendance as new football coach Mickey Moss was re-introduced to a community and people he knows very well.

"It feels very good to be back after 32 years," Moss said. "It is always a thrill to be back home and see those familiar faces."

Moss returns to his alma mater after serving as the athletic director and head football coach at Wren High School. The coach brings with him a successful resume, leading East Clarendon to four region titles and the Class A state championship in 1985 and earning berths in the playoffs 10 out of his 13 years in Lake City.

Moss replaces former head man Robbie Blanton, who will remain as the Blacksburg High athletic director. Moss will also serve as the school's assistant athletic director of football operations.

Playing under legendary coach Bob Blanton in the 1960s, Moss learned a tough brand of football that he has taken with him throughout his career on the sidelines. According to Moss, that style will not change.

"I believe in toughness," Moss said. "Coach Blanton set the example and that is how we will play. But it is not all about winning, as we will teach character and teach these kids to become young men." Blacksburg High football player Joshua Ramirez was in attendance at Sunday's ceremony and said he was impressed by the coach's business-like attitude.

"It feels good to have someone like him come in," Ramirez said. "I definitely know he is going to push us and help us make the changes needed to win."

Blacksburg Mayor David Hogue let Moss know the town is behind him.

"(Moss) grew up here, played here and got his start here ... now he is coming back home to become our head football coach," Hogue said. "Winning is important, but I especially admire those who help and lead our young people. He has done that in the past and we as a community look forward to him also doing so here."