HAWTHORNE, Fla. — Winning one state title is a remarkable achievement, but winning back-to-back titles? Now, that's a different story.
Over the last two seasons, Cornelius Ingram has played a pivotal role in guiding both the Hawthorne Hornets' football and girls' basketball teams to consecutive state trophies.
"I don't think people know how hard it is to line up on Friday night, and I'm talking football, and then of course whenever the girls are playing during the week, and you get maximum championship effort from opposing teams. There's no nights off," Ingram reflects.
For a town like Hawthorne, with a population of just around 1500, the significance of these state titles runs deep.
"You talk about these kids, they can't walk into the mall, they can't go in the grocery store because everyone is putting it out there. 'Hey, you guys going to repeat?' And some of our kids, they are young, they get caught up in it. 'Absolutely.' Right, they are answering it, and I was like listen, you better back that up," Ingram acknowledges.
And back it up they have, showcasing their determination and work ethic both on and off the field.
"Our kids do an unbelievable job with buying in, and any little time we have together, we'll have a walk-through. These kids give up their lunch during school to get out on the gym floor to walk through plays. So now, when the foundation is laid and the standard is set, you have to fall in line, or you'll stick out like a sore thumb," Ingram asserts.
Ingram's leadership and the dedication of the Hawthorne Hornets have not only brought home state championships but have also instilled a sense of pride and resilience within the community.