RABBITTOWN — For the ultimate-optimists -- and let’s admit there have been a few of those among us -- Thursday will represent more than just your typically average work day.
The 2020 Georgia High School Association sports season will officially get under way with girls softball action around the state and in northeast Georgia.
No, really, it’s true!
While there aren’t many games on tap (most teams will begin next week) the fact that there are any at all will be seen as a huge morale booster for sports fans, players, and coaches everywhere.
East Hall coach Anuel Burce never said never, despite all the outside noise.
"I would never say with the way things was going that we would ever get to this day, I just prayed that it would get here," Burce said. "With all the different people that could make that decision and all the input they needed from so many, that's a lot to deal with. It's been hard to be away from our team this long.
"We were all anxious to get back. For the players, it's going to mean a great deal to get back a piece of normal. For coaches, this is what we are here for, to help build responsible young adults, and grow relationships, so it gives us a little relic and normalcy as well.
"I think fans wanted to get the season going as it helps everyone all around cope with everything that is going on. I think the parents want to see their kids have as much normal as they can. If everything goes well this can do so much for our society as a whole."
East Hall, a top six team in Class 3A in 2019 that has moved up to Class 4A, will play host to old Region 7-3A foe Cherokee Bluff at 7 p.m. at East Hall Park.
The Lady Vikings are coming off their best season in program history with 26 wins, a Region 7-3A title, and a top-six finish in Class 3A in Columbus.
The Lady Bears also are coming off their best season making the playoffs in just their second season of varsity play after posting 19 wins.
In other limited action on Thursday, West Hall plays host to Towns County and Lumpkin County travels to Madison County.
Volleyball is slated to begin on Aug. 11 and football on Sept. 4 as things currently stand with the GHSA.
