By: Michael Spiers

TheSouthernSportsEdition.com news services

Camden County High School will celebrate its rich athletic history with the inaugural induction class of the Camden County Athletics Hall of Fame on Saturday, May 10, 2025.

The event will take place at the CCHS Fine Arts Building in Kingsland, Georgia, honoring individuals and teams who have made a lasting impact on Wildcat athletics.

This inaugural class of inductees represents some of the most accomplished athletes, coaches, teams and contributors in Camden County’s history. This year’s class will include the following five inductees:

1960 Ralph J. Bunche High School State Championship Football Team: The Ralph J. Bunche Hornets made history by winning the first high school football state championship in Camden County history.

The school, which opened in 1951 to serve Black students in the area, started playing football in 1954 as part of the Georgia Interscholastic Association.

After semifinal appearances in 1958 and 1959, the Hornets broke through in 1960, dominating Henry County Training 45-2 to claim the Class A state title. Following integration in 1970, Ralph J. Bunche High School became part of Camden County High School, but the Hornets’ championship legacy remains a cornerstone of local sports history.

1985 Camden County High School Girls Track and Field Team: This team made history as the first-ever state champions in any sport at Camden County High School.

Their victory paved the way for future Wildcats, demonstrating that Camden County athletics could compete at the highest level. Their success remains a significant milestone in the school’s athletic legacy.

Frank Smith – “Mr. Wildcat”: Frank Smith was more than just a fan—he was the heart and soul of Camden County football.

Known affectionately as “Mr. Wildcat,” Smith was a dedicated supporter who never missed a game, home or away, for over 40 years until his passing in 2012.

As the longtime president of the CCHS Quarterback Club, his passion for Wildcat football was unmatched. His legacy is honored every year with the Frank Smith Classic, held at Chris Gilman Stadium during the Wildcats’ first home game in September.

Jeff Herron – Legendary Head Coach: Few names in Georgia high school football carry as much weight as Jeff Herron.

Over his 32-year career, Herron built a reputation as one of the best coaches in the country, compiling an overall record of 334-69, including 312-54 in Georgia.

His remarkable 85.3% winning percentage ranks second in Georgia history and among the top 35 in national high school football history.

During his 15 seasons at Camden County, Herron transformed the Wildcats into a powerhouse, winning three state championships (2003, 2008, 2009).

Under his leadership, Camden dominated the region for 12 consecutive years, set a state record with a 58-game regular season winning streak, and was ranked in the USA Today Top 25 six times. ESPN even named the Wildcats the Program of the Decade in Georgia (2000-2010).

Beyond Camden, Herron won state championships at Oconee County (1999) and Grayson (2016). His coaching excellence is now being recognized on a national scale—this summer, he will be inducted into both the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association (GACA) Hall of Fame and the National High School Football Hall of Fame.

Lyvonia “Stump” Mitchell – Camden’s NFL Star: A true Camden County legend, Lyvonia “Stump” Mitchell left his mark at every level of football. After a standout career as a Wildcat running back, he continued his dominance at The Citadel, where he still holds school records for rushing yards in a season (1,647) and career (4,062).

In 1981, Mitchell was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the ninth round of the NFL Draft. He played in the league for a decade, spending nine years with the Cardinals (1981-1989) before finishing his career with the Kansas City Chiefs in 1990.

Following his playing days, Mitchell transitioned to coaching, leading Morgan State University (1996-1998) before taking on NFL coaching roles with the Seahawks, Redskins, Cardinals, Jets, and Browns. His long and distinguished career in professional football is a testament to the talent that has come from Camden County.

The Camden County Athletics Hall of Fame will serve as a tribute to the incredible athletes, coaches, and supporters who have shaped Wildcat sports. This inaugural class represents a mix of historic achievements, legendary figures, and community icons, each of whom played a vital role in building Camden County’s athletic tradition.

With this event, Camden County will not only honor its past but also inspire future generations of Wildcats to leave their own mark on the field, track, and beyond.