For the first time in five years, Hall County does not hold the Battle of the Heroes trophy and bragging rights. This year, that honor belongs to the combined first responder team from Habersham and Banks counties.
The Habersham/Banks squad defeated Hall County in Saturday night’s charity flag football game, 34-27.
The game was played at Raider Stadium in Mt. Airy. Threatening storms forced organizers to delay kickoff by an hour. Despite the late start, many spectators still showed up to watch the game and support The Easton Foundation.
While the Habersham/Banks squad celebrated breaking its 5-year drought, there’s never really been a loser in this game. That’s because the money it raises goes to support local youth.
In addition to fundraising, the halftime ceremony provides a public setting in which to honor first responders. This year, The Easton Foundation honored one of its own—former Banks County Fire Capt. Richie Alford.
Alford served as the team captain for the Habersham/Banks squad for many years. He died in June while trying to rescue two swimmers at Panama City Beach, Florida. The Foundation recognized Alford’s family during a special halftime ceremony, presenting them with framed photos of him.
Organizers also recognized all fallen local first responders in the newly-named Richie Alford Circle of Honor.
The evening was capped off with a fireworks display.
