Legendary Southwest-Macon girls coach Willie Goolsby has graced the sideline for well over forty years and has accomplished just about every accolade possible except winning a state title. During his tenure, he has coached many great players and led the Lady Patriots to region championships and several state title game appearances, but hasn’t been able to get over the hump.

Last Saturday, the old faithful showed up in high numbers to support as Southwest-Macon battled Rockmart in the GHSA State Playoff Semifinals. And fittingly, considering the magnitude of the game, it wasn’t easy.

The Lady Patriots had to erase an eleven-point deficit in the final period to clinch a spot in the class 2A title game. They relied on a 19-6 fourth-quarter run and a heroic effort from Stantagious Alford who finished with 23 points, 19 rebounds, 5 steals, 2 blocks, and 2 assists including the game winning basket as time expired [highlight clip below].

Alford’s buzzer beater has the Lady Patriots knocking on the door once again and there is a growing consensus that no one deserves this opportunity more than Willie Goolsby. Could this be the year he captures that elusive state title?

Headline Photo Above By: Michael Woody
Video Below By: Kyle Sandy of sandysspiel.com