BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — The Martin County Board of Education spotlight was on the Martin County High School football team Monday night. Schools Superintendent Larry James presented certificates of recognition to the players in honor of the team’s outstanding season.

The Cardinals won the Class 2A District 7 championship, then defeated Pike Central and Betsy Layne in the playoffs to advance to the regional championship.

Head football coach Josh Muncy acknowledged the season started “a little rocky,” but the Cardinals completed an overall winning record of 7-6.

“We had a good season, probably the best season we’ve had in a long time—postseason-wise for sure,” said Muncy. “We ended up winning our first- and second-round playoff rounds at home. Then we went on the road to play Beechwood in the regional title game. It didn’t go our way, but it was a great experience for our guys.”

While the number of games a team can play in a season in Kentucky is 15, if the team plays for the state title, Martin County played 13 this year.

“We got close,” said the coach. “I’m really proud of this bunch. They set the bar high, went for it and worked hard. The seniors have been around for four years, and coming in this year, they were like, ‘Yeah, we’re going to play Kroger Field this year and win a state title.’ They believed it. They believed they could make a deep playoff run and they did…”

Muncy said the goal was to “raise men” whose work ethic would carry them forward.

“They’re better men for their hard work,” he added. “Even though they didn’t reach the goal they wanted, I feel confident that these guys, especially the seniors, will graduate, move on, and I have no doubt become productive members of our community… hopefully of Martin County.”

Superintendent James and the BOE also recognized the coaching staff.

“Like Coach Muncy said, it’s not just about coaching; it’s about raising good men,” James said of the staff. “These guys are great role models for our kids.”