Coach Gable Reflects on Team’s Success and Community Support

As the Chattooga High School football team kicks off the season with a perfect 4-0 record, Coach Gable took a moment to reflect on the community’s steadfast support, the dedication fueling the team’s remarkable turnaround, and the unique qualities that make this group of young men truly special. Here’s what he had to say:

Q: How has the community responded to the season’s opening?

Coach Gable: The response from the community has been nothing but fantastic. They have shown up to support this team all year. We had a great crowd at Gordon Central the other night; the visitors’ side was close to full. Our team greatly appreciates the support from our student section, cheerleaders, band, and community. And honestly… the support we received last year during our 2-8 season was also great. We are blessed to have such a close-knit community that supports one another. Winning sure does make it more fun! I promise you our team feeds off the energy we get from our supporters!

Q: You went 2-8 last season; how do you explain the turnaround?

Coach Gable: Last season was tough. We let a couple of games we felt we should’ve won slip away, but that’s all part of learning how to win. However, winning our last game against Coosa gave us momentum heading into the offseason. In January, we met with the seniors, and they committed to not repeating a 2-8 season. From then on, we got back to work, focusing on the weight room, growing stronger, and building confidence. Spring practice was a complete turnaround from the previous year, and by summer, you could see leaders emerge, with the team gaining confidence every day. Hard work has been critical to our early success.

Q: What makes this team special?

Coach Gable: This team is made up of a great group of young men who have committed to each other and the program. They’ve taken some lumps over the years but decided to turn things around. It’s been rewarding to see them grow and learn that by working hard and focusing on the little things, the team can be successful. They’ve bought into the message we’ve been preaching, and that’s made all the difference.

Q: The players have bought into your system. What message do you want them and the community to take away from this season’s early success?

Coach Gable: I want the team to understand not to take any of this for granted. This success didn’t come from just showing up on Friday night—it’s been a process. If they continue to work hard and support each other, great opportunities are ahead. But if they stop doing what got us here, it could all go away quickly. Hard work is the key.

Q: You have the state’s leading rusher Zayden Cook. Does his presence change up the game plan?

Coach Gable: We are blessed to have a player like Zayden Cook on our team. What makes Zayden special is his humility and hard work. He’s a team-first player, and after rushing for over 300 yards in back-to-back games, the first thing he told me was not to give him Player of the Week but to give it to the guys blocking for him. That shows his character. Zayden understands, as does the team that every bit of attention he gets is a team recognition.

Q: In a time when school safety and mental health are front and center in Georgia, what has been your approach to these issues with the team?

Coach Gable: Football is more than wins and losses. Coaching is relationship-driven, and I take that seriously. Our staff is committed to helping these young men grow into good men, good sons, good husbands, and good fathers one day. Our motto this year is “I AM THIRD.” We put the Lord first, others second, and ourselves third. This philosophy has helped create a team-first culture that has brought us closer together.

Q: You put in long days with all sports at all levels. Why is being there for middle school games, softball games, and other groups important to you?

Coach Gable: First of all, I love sports and watching our athletes represent Chattooga High School. Our saying, “ONE TRIBE,” is absolutely who we are. We support each other, and our players do, too, across all sports. Many athletes play multiple sports, so being there matters. Our staff does a great job supporting not just football but all sports, and it’s less stressful for me to watch and cheer them on than coaching on Friday nights!

Coach Gable’s commitment to the community and the team is evident. As the season progresses, it’s clear this foundation of hard work and togetherness will continue to drive the team’s success and that Chattooga has the right man driving the ship.