In only his first year as head coach, Neil Blankenship entered some pretty elite territory Friday night. Blankenship, in only his first year, now has more wins in his first season as head coach than any other head coach in our school history. The Maroon Devils under Blankenship are now 11-0 on the season and are Smoky Mountain Conference Champions.
The former record was 10 wins by Hall-of-Famer and Swain legend Boyce Deitz. Deitz finished 10-2 in his first season at Swain. Rod White and Sam Pattillo both finished their first season as head coach with 9 wins, while Norris Jones had 8 wins in his first season as a head coach.
Not only is his 11 wins a school record, but Blankenship is looking to become the only head coach in school history to win a State Title in his first season at the helm.
Blankenship and the Devils open the second season Friday night as they host East WIlkes in the 1st Round of the NCHSAA 1AA playoffs.