CHULA — Fall athletes of Tiftarea Academy came together Dec. 10 for a combined sports banquet at the school’s gymnasium.

Shotgun team, cross country, softball and football players had their names called while their coaches talked about everything they achieved.

Both softball and football earned region championship. Chance Benson’s Lady Panthers were among the last three teams standing in the Class 3A state tournament. Erik Soliday’s Panthers were semifinalists in 3A football.

Tiftarea’s football squad only lost twice this year. Weight room work is a big reason. “The kids are stronger than they’ve ever been,” Soliday said. Mikel Soliday has been in charge of that.

Though they fell to Valwood in the semifinals, Erik Soliday said the crowd made a huge difference in the Panthers’ favor. The Panthers had plenty to be proud of, beating both state champion Deerfield-Windsor and runner-up Valwood.

Benson had no seniors on his softball squad, yet they persevered to not only win district but keep going.

“Columbus was an incredible atmosphere,” Benson said of their trip there, recapping all their state tournament games. He said this was their best softball of the year.

David Dark said it was a gift for him to be able to work with his cross country athletes. Both teams made state this year, this being the 11th consecutive appearance for the Lady Panthers.

Each coach issued plenty of thanks to the school, parents, players and benefactors for making the year a success.