The Integration of Football and Education in Athens: A Historical Perspective
In the heart of the South, where high school football reigns supreme, the merging of two segregated high schools in Athens in 1970 marked a pivotal moment. Local historian Mark Clegg explores this transformative period in his book, The Crimson and Gold: Football and Integration in Athens, Georgia.
Released in 2024 through the University of Georgia Press, Clegg’s work unexpectedly found its way into the hands of local high school librarians. They saw the book as a valuable resource for Clarke Central High School student athletes, integrating it into a summer book club curriculum.
This summer, a large number of students will delve into The Crimson and Gold, gaining insights into the challenging history of their school. Clegg shared his thoughts on the book’s influence with WUGA’s Emma Auer, emphasizing its significance for the youth of Athens.
