News Summary
In a thrilling start to the Georgia high school football season, Westside High School triumphed over Laney with a score of 21-12. The match celebrated a long-standing rivalry that has bound the Augusta community for decades. Senior quarterback Trevon Griffin showcased exceptional leadership, while standout performances on both sides highlighted the emotional stakes for players and fans alike. As the season unfolds, both teams hope to leverage their early momentum in this cherished local tradition.
Augusta, Georgia – In a thrilling opener for the 2024 Georgia high school football season, Westside emerged victorious over Laney with a score of 21-12. The game marked another chapter in a historic rivalry that has captivated the Augusta community since Westside’s establishment in the early 1970s. Alumni from both schools reflected on the significance of the matchup, underscoring the enduring tradition that binds families and friends across the two schools.
Westside’s senior quarterback, Trevon Griffin, played a pivotal role in the victory. His leadership on the field was cemented by a strong offensive performance throughout the game. In a crucial moment, Laney’s Jaylen Stone made a late interception that allowed Tiquavious Kemp to score a touchdown for Laney, bringing the score to 21-12. However, Westside’s defense proved resilient, making a significant stop during Laney’s two-point conversion attempt, which could have tightened the score even further. Tamari Curry ultimately sealed the win for Westside with an impressive nearly 70-yard touchdown run.
The game took place under the backdrop of a cooling fall atmosphere, as the season’s first week coincided with the changing weather. The rivalry remains vibrant, with both sides bringing their dedicated fans to support the teams. This year, Westside’s offense averaged 25 points per game heading into the matchup, while Laney’s roster, which includes 20 seniors, looked to leverage their experience for a strong season under the guidance of head coach Ronnie Baker, in his fifth year with the team.
The 2024 season opener not only showcased the athletic prowess of the players but also highlighted the emotional connections that exist between the schools. Many students have family ties that run deep, with relatives often attending the opposing school, fostering a friendly yet fierce competition. This sentiment was echoed by Marquette Sims, an assistant coach at Westside who is also a Laney alumnus. The shared history between the two schools adds layers to the rivalry that go beyond the football field.
The Westside-Laney rivalry is more than just a series of games; it represents a cherished community tradition. Since Westside High School opened, local alumni like Drexel Clark and Thelonius Jones have emphasized how important these matchups are to community identity. The anticipation of the game and the spirit it generates brings together families and friends, regardless of which side they support.
The significance of high school football in Georgia extends beyond just this rivalry. Discussions surrounding the highest-paid high school football coaches in the state reflect the growing investment in athletic programs. Joey King of Carrollton High School, with an impressive salary of $219,214.65, exemplifies the financial commitment school districts make towards successful football programs.
As the season progresses, both Westside and Laney will aim to build upon the foundations laid in this opening game. Fans eagerly await the next opportunity to cheer on their teams, while the pride and tradition of high school football in Georgia continue to thrive.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Westside Defeats Laney in First Week of Georgia High School Football
- Wikipedia: High School Football in the United States
- WJBF: Football Friday Night 2025 Week 1 Scores & Highlights
- Google Search: High School Football Georgia
- Augusta Chronicle: Highest Paid High School Football Coaches in Georgia
- Google Scholar: High School Football Coaches Georgia
- Augusta Press: CSRA High School Football Week 1 Scores
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- Post and Courier: Brothers Go from Kicking at North Augusta to Starting for Major FBS Programs
- Google News: High School Football
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
