11/11/2021
Passing the Football to the New Record Holder (written by Greg Wilson, principal WCHS)
White County High School organized football dates back to 1929, according to historians. Hundreds, even thousands, have put on the maroon and grey to represent Sparta on the gridiron. Many have gone on to play college and even professional football. The community has always been loyal to filling the stands and cheering for the young men who carry the football, block for their teammates, and stop the opponents.
The 2021 season has proved to be a special year and will be remembered by the White County fans for many years. Not just for the big win over rival Cookeville but several other historical events. Records were set by the young men wearing the maroon and grey.
One record, in particular, was the single season rushing record. According to information provided to the school, the record was set in the 1983 season by junior running back Dewayne Marcus (WCHS Class of ’84). Marcus rushed for 1500 yards in the 1983 season. According to information provided to the school, several other running backs had come close to Marcus’ record, but Marcus had held the record until this season. The record was smashed this season by Malaki Dowell. Dowell eclipsed Marcus’ record by 500 yards, setting the new record at over 2000 yards. According to the football publication, MaxPreps Dowell finished with 2029 yards in just nine games.
Dowell has also been named the Middle Tennessee Athlete of the Week by the Tennessean Sports Writers poll for two consecutive years.
**It was released today that Malaki Dowell is a semi-finalist for 5A Mr Football. Link in comments!
