The state of Georgia has grown into a proud home base for the most prominent high school football played anywhere in the country and its storied history, reputation and amazing talent enriches this distinct reputation each new season. Spirited rivalries, heartbreaking upsets, remarkable dynasties and inspiring performances have made Friday nights in Georgia a treasured mainstay that spans every corner of the state. Generations of countless players have participated in this ever-unfolding journey since the sport was first introduced in 1894 and the Georgia High School Football Hall of Fame was launched to represent the all-time standouts and greats that surpassed the competition, excelled beyond the expectations and contributed to the legacy that built the incredible atmosphere enjoyed today. Few individuals have achieved more on the gridiron than Champ Bailey, who entered the Georgia High School Football Hall of Fame in last year’s inaugural class.
Bailey was a first ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer following a historic career that saw him reach an NFL record 12 Pro Bowls. He’s been enshrined into both the Georgia (2018) and Colorado (2017) Sports Hall of Fames. Additionally, Bailey was the 14th former Georgia Bulldog that was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and was also recently inducted into the Georgia Florida Hall of Fame to recognize the greatest standouts to play in the annual rivalry. He achieved greatness at every level of the game and was naturally impactful and inspiring with his work off the field. When Bailey was informed that he was entering the newly formed Georgia High School Football Hall of Fame last year, he said it immediately clicked and he understood the positive impact this would have.
“I’m a Georgia boy and so the importance of this Hall of Fame clicked instantly,” said Bailey. “I identify with a lot of the guys and have a lot of fond memories. The bonds are so meaningful. With high school football, this is where it begins. Not just in sports, but in life itself. It means so much because none of us can play forever.”
Bailey’s football journey began in the small town of Folkston, Ga. and his small town roots provide a real life example of hard work and discipline that resonates with up-and-coming players that were too young to see him play. Throughout his playing career and in the years since, Bailey has made sure to represent Charlton County.
“I have always made sure to represent where I came from and Charlton County,” said Bailey. “I grew up with everyone I was on the team with since we were toddlers. That is why it was so special.”
The first stop after he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame was back at his alma mater, where he spoke to the students in a packed gym. Bailey continues to pay it forward and stay connected to the game and offers incredible insight on his official show; Champ Bailey presents Ultimate Georgia Football on the BrinxTV Network.
When Bailey was inducted into the inaugural class last year, emcee and Board Member Jon Nelson asked what it meant to come from Folkston, Ga. to the Hall of Fame.
“Work. We had to work to get out of there. And I don’t say that as a detriment to my town,” said Bailey to the audience. “It was just not a lot of opportunity and we wanted to go somewhere so we could bring back more opportunity and inspire the next generation. There were a lot of guys before me and I knew there would be some coming after so I just wanted to do my part.”
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