Year-in-Review: Gator Nation Indeed

The Goose Creek Gators seemed destined to bring home a second consecutive state title in 2012.

It was senior year for national standout Tramel Terry, but Coach Chuck Reedy's team showed the talent and experience of the entire roster week after week. In a highly competitive district, there was no competition for the Gators.

Goose Creek headed into the playoffs with an 11-0 record. They defeated Conway 48-7 in round one, on track for that state title.

On Nov. 12, Principal Jimmy Huskey started checking eligibility for winter sport players, learning that a player on the football squad was ineligible. His transcript had been updated since administrators checked it in the fall to reflect a fourth year of high school. Students are only eligible for eight semesters of high school play.

Read more:

• Chuck Reedy Unsure About Future After Disqualification
• Lowcountry Lawmakers Want to Hold SCHSL Accountable
• City Resolution Supports Goose Creek Gators
• Gator Nation Celebrates A Second Shot at Playoffs

Huskey spoke with Coach Chuck Reedy about the player — a special needs student who'd asked to be placed on the team two weeks after practice started. Reedy accommodated him, but only played the young man when the team was in a safe lead.

A member of the South Carolina High School League executive committee, Huskey was sure he could negotiate a special exception for the student. The SCHSL staff and executive committee each refused the request, invalidating the teams wins and removing them from playoff action.

An emotional week followed, with triumph in court. A Circuit Court judge demanded a rehearing of the school's hardship request. The Gators had one more game, defeating Bluffton in a home game that packed the stands.

But the SCHSL stuck to its original decision and refused the hardship request. Bluffton was able to advance to the next round of the playoffs, losing to Northwestern. The title for 4A Division II would go to Greenwood.

In 2013, the state legislature has several bills proposed to replace or change the South Carolina High School League. What we're likely to see in the end will be new authority over the SCHSL in the Department of Education or a new state board to manage scholastic athletic sports.

Following the SCHSL decision, Coach Chuck Reedy was adamant that he wanted changes to the system.

"I will certainly be evaluating my future, in conjunction with Mr. Huskey," Reedy said. "I can tell you I have a very difficult time being associated with an organization like the South Carolina High School League."

The record books may deny it, but the Gators will be shooting for another undefeated season and a state title free from boardroom votes. They'll be more than happy to leave it on the field, where it belongs.

What do you think of the Gators' rollercoaster year? Share them in the comments below.