Now That's A Rivalry

Growing up in Ahoskie we were members of the Albemarle conference. Starting in 1947 until 1972 the Albemarle won the state championship in 1-A or 2-A football 19 times.

Edenton's Holmes had six, Ahoskie and Williamston five titles, Perquimans two and even Gates County had a title.

Our rival game was Edenton. Back then it was always the eighth game on the schedule. Both towns literally rolled up the streets when ever they played each other. The rivalry was so intense that it spilled over even after you graduated.

In 1965 and 1966 there were alumni games played. In 65 it was in Edenton and 66 in Ahoskie. I was there and remember the scores 7-0 Edenton in 65 and 13-7 Ahoskie.

To tell you how close the series was in 1987 which was the last year of Ahoskie High school the teams had each won 24 times and there had been three ties.

They were so even, even the alumni games were tied overall.

Unfortunately like all good things either the government or insurance gets involved and ruins a good thing. It was stopped after two years because of the liability the schools had to cover to have the games.

I can finally say that I think the Rocky Mount -Northern Nash rivalry is getting close to the intensity that use to be displayed in the Ahoskie-Edenton series. Next Tuesday afternoon the faculty of both schools will square off in a basketball game to support the Nash County Relay for Life .

The game starts at 4.30 in the RMHS gym.

Mark "The Bird" Fidrych was a one hit wonder back in the 70's winning 19 games for the Detroit Tigers. A sore arm brought a quick end to his career even after winning the Rookie of the year in 1979.

How many of you remember the name Greg Cooke. He lead the NFL in passing in 1970 for the Cincinnati Bengals. Hurt his shoulder in the next preseason and never played again.

Can you think of any other one hit wonders in any sport? Let me know.