Alabama high school football rivalry game canceled over 'concerning' social media post

One of the longest-standing rivalry games in Alabama high school football won’t be played this weekend.

Pickens County (Ala.) announced that it has canceled its upcoming varsity game with rival Gordo this Friday. The decision reportedly stems from post made by the “Gordo V Cheer” Facebook page, which is connected to Gordo’s varsity cheer squad.

The post was deleted on Wednesday evening. But according to WVUA-24, the local TV affiliate, the post declared Friday as “Tame the Tornadoes” spirit day and suggested students dress up in a “safari/tour guide/animal” theme.

The photo along with the post showed about a dozen white students dressed casually, with several holding stuffed monkeys or bananas. Both schools fall within the Pickens County School System, with Gordo’s population being primarily white students, while Pickens County’s is majority black students.

“While the rivalry has been a proud tradition since 1924, a recent social media post from Gordo V Cheer Facebook page caused deep concern among students, families and the community,” Pickens County principal Lee Richardson said in a letter sent to parents. 

The first edition of the rivalry between the two schools was played in 1920, and the teams have played more than 100 times since then. It has been given the moniker “8 Mile War.”

“I understand that this post offended numerous people, and I am truly sorry,” Gordo high school principal Jeff Campbell wrote. “Our intent was never to be offensive, but I recognize that it was received that way, and for that I am deeply sorry.

… As principal, I take full responsibility for anything that happens at GHS and will do a better job of ensuring future posts do not create division within our county. I have nothing but respect for Mr. Richardson and Pickens County High School.”

Teams will return to play next week

Gordo came into the game 5-0 and is considered one of the top programs in the state. The Green Wave are in their first year under head coach Chris Chambless. The Mississippi high school coaching legend was most recently West Point, where he led them to a 206-45 mark during his tenure, winning seven state titles. That included an 110-11 district record with 11 district titles and a streak of eight consecutive state championship appearances, going 5-3 in state title games during than span.

Gordo, also nicknamed the Green Wave, has won 20 region championships and four state titles in its history, with the appearance coming in 2020.

Pickens County (2-3) will return to action next week against Class 1A Hubbertville, while Gordo will travel to region opponent Oakman.