Murphy – Despite being retired for four months, legendary Bulldogs football coach David Gentry picked up another award on Sept. 27, when he was named Western North Carolina Coach of the Year by the Asheville Citizen-Times.
In the spring, Gentry guided the Bulldogs to another state championship, his ninth at Murphy and 10th in school history. The 14-7 win over Northside-Pinetown on May 8 was also the Bulldogs’ fifth state championship in the last 10 seasons. He retired in June after recording 366 of his state-record 423 wins at Murphy High School.
Alum and University of Florida freshman Yousef Mugharbil was named Lineman of the Year, while linebacker Ray Rathburn and defensive back Juan Allen were named first-team All-Defense. Mugharbil helped pave the way for the Bulldogs’ running game, helping them win a state championship when he could have enrolled early for the Gators.
At middle linebacker, Rathburn was the heart and soul of Murphy’s team last spring. He recorded 119 tackles, six sacks and four forced fumbles while also being one of the Bulldogs’ primary running backs. He was named the Most Outstanding Defensive Player in the state championship game. Allen’s five interceptions were the most in western North Carolina, according to the Citizen-Times, and he also recorded 46 tackles.
Andrews’ running back Isaac Weaver and Murphy wide receiver Payton McCracken were named second-team All-Western North Carolina, while Bulldogs quarterback Kellen Rumfelt was an honorable mention.