David Brent Martin
The Baldwin Braves (9-2) have a lot going for them right now. Their offensive attack can put up points quickly when in sync, and their defense has the power, focus and determination to intimidate any offense that comes in their path.
Friday night, defending AAA state champion Cairo (8-3) will bring their caravan of die-hard fans by the busload — and they will come in great numbers. There will not only be school buses, but church buses, minivans and every other type of vehicle known to mankind motoring up that highway to play a part in disrupting the hopes and dreams of the Baldwin Braves.
The atmosphere at Baldwin High’s stadium (aka the Hole) is static electric on Friday night. The incredible first round victory over Northside-Columbus brought out tons of valuable support — but much more will be needed to slow down Cairo and will the Braves to victory. GMC Prep head coach Brad Owens and his entire football team even came out last Friday to support the Braves.
The magnitude of Friday night’s game is enormous. You have the Region 3-AAA champion Braves taking on the defending state champion Syrupmakers in a game that could catapult Baldwin deep into the playoffs. Cairo is without a doubt one of Baldwin’s biggest obstacles, but an opponent that can be beaten if the Braves utilize their strengths and team speed.
The Baldwin Braves athletic field house was plastered Tuesday with flyers designed to inspire and motivate the team throughout the week. A good example was “Let No Team Stand in Our Way — Beat Cairo!” And beat Cairo they must.
“We’ve been putting up those posters since we’ve been here. It’s kind of a tradition, and the kids look forward to it,” said Hicks Tuesday afternoon. “Their entire town is coming.”
Cairo is known as “Syrup City” — but some say prep football is their deepest passion, and they have proven it time and time again as their team has traditionally been a power in the state playoffs.
“We want to appeal to our community. We’re still playing football and we’re proud of that,” said Hicks. “We want everybody in this area, Middle Georgia, to be packed to the rafters. Because we know the South Georgia people of Cairo are coming.”
Cairo is certainly coming, and they will be doing everything in their power Friday to take home a victory.
“Come and support our program and support our kids. And let them [Cairo] know that there is some good football played right here in Middle Georgia,” said Hicks. “We want to create that 12th man atmosphere right here in Milledgeville.”
A few extra football fanatics and sports enthusiasts from the Middle Georgia area certainly wouldn’t hurt the Braves, and a large turnout would really mean the world to the team and school. And fans shouldn’t expect to watch a boring game, for the Baldwin Braves play an exciting brand of football that is pure, clean entertainment.
“Whatever support we can get from everybody — even if you bring the whole family. We definitely want Cairo to feel like they are the visitors here,” said Hicks. “And that has a lot to do with the atmosphere. That’s all I’m trying to do is build up the atmosphere and bring in some positivity.”
Friday night is certainly playing up to be an instant classic in the annals of Baldwin County prep football history — and the Braves have a great opportunity to make a serious statement in the race for the state title.
“We’ve got to let them know that this is a home game for us,” said Hicks. “When a team comes into Baldwin County they need to know they’re not just here to play football, but the entire community is behind it.”
Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.
