IMAGES: Huntington High School Honored by Council, Mayor Despite Loss

Tuesday, December 10, 2013 - 05:50 Story and Photos by Tony Rutherford
“Let’s do it next year,” councilman Rick Simmons exuberantly stated during Monday’s City Hall congratulations of the Huntington High School football team, which came up short in their bid for the state championship.

Mayor Steve Williams praised the Highlander team which went 13-1, losing in Wheeling 9-7 to Martinsburg.

“You have done our city proud. You didn’t lose the game , you ran out of time,” Williams said.

The state championship bid became the first for the consolidated school which originally was Huntington High and Huntington East. Under the leadership of Coach Billy Seals, the school  went 0-10 in 2009 but rose to the #1 rating in AAA football.

Coach Seals told council the team had a “magical ride” in 2013, adding the opposition was “getting tired and we were about to put a nail in their coffin.”

Councilman Gary Bunn chimed encouragement: “When you lose , you come back stronger. Come see us next year with the trophy.”

Williams reminded council that “every one of the parents and team members live in your district,” referring to city residency. “They are winners in our hearts on the field and off.”

Seals added, “ When the game of football is over, they will make outstanding citizens.”