Who could have written a better script?
For Forest Hills gridders, coaching staff and fans, this past Friday night under the lights was the stuff of a made-for-television movie.
The lead character of course: Head Coach Don Bailey, who most knowledgeable high school football fans in these parts would say has earned the title of a gridiron legend.
The Rangers’ 43-6 victory at Somerset was Bailey’s coveted 300th win in his 36th season at the helm of Forest Hills football.
Truly remarkable.
But for those who know Bailey, the most important statistic for him is the fact his Rangers completed yet another regular season undefeated – his ninth – and gained a spot in post-season playoffs.
“This is an undefeated football team (10-0), so they’re a good football team,” Bailey said. “But Double-A in District 6 this year is very strong. You can go all the way down to eight. There are a lot of good football teams in Double-A. It’s going to be a challenge to go out and win the first game of the playoffs.”
Very Paterno-esque, wouldn’t you say?
“First of all, I’d like to thank God for giving me the privilege of coaching at Forest Hills,” Bailey said during a plaque presentation following Friday night’s game. His accomplishments were announced over the public address system.
Many of the Forest Hills fans remained after the game to witness the well-deserved honors. That in itself reflects on what Bailey has meant to the school and its football program.
“I’d like to thank all of the coaches and players who have been with me the last 36 years,” Bailey said. “Coaches don’t really win football games. Players do. We’ve been fortunate enough to have a lot of good players at Forest Hills.”
Yes, it has. And good coaches, too.
Forest Hills teams have produced 32 winning seasons during Bailey’s long tenure, going 300-82-8 with 12 conference championships, 7 District 6 crowns, 4 Region III titles and a state runner-up finish in 1994.
Bailey’s dedication to Forest Hills is well-documented. He is a graduate of the school, where he starred in football and did well in the classroom.
After receiving his college degree, he returned to teach – and coach. Today, he serves as superintendent. He is a life-long resident of the community.
His son, Brandon, coaches the rival Richland High School Rams.
While we congratulate Bailey for his 31⁄2 decades of coaching, we also thank him for a career in teaching and administration, where he has helped mold and serve as a role model for thousands of our young people.
We can all take pride in that.
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