THE PEEWEE football field radiated with the electric energy of anticipation. Under the floodlights, it was a tableau of youthful stamina and raw potential. Cleats crunched on the turf, helmets gleamed under the golden sun, and the wind carried the smell of fresh-cut grass. In the center of it all stood Andrew Ragland, his whistle hanging loosely around his neck as he called the players in for a huddle. The cheerleaders beamed with joy and belted out another cheer. Ragland’s voice was steady — a blend of authority and warmth that drew the boys in. They gathered around him as a look of nervous excitement glinted in their eyes.
Ragland looked at each young face, seeing more than just players in pads and jerseys. He saw future leaders, community builders, and capable individuals. In every gameplay he made, he spoke life into the players, leaving them eager to return to the field and give their best. Ragland’s passion was contagious, and his belief in them was exhilarating.
Ragland concluded, and as the players broke the huddle with a unified cheer, he stepped back, his heart swelling with pride. He knew that win or lose, these moments were shaping these boys into the kind of men who would carry the lessons they learned at Franklin County (FC) Peewee Football & Cheerleading into every aspect of their lives. And that, more than any trophy, was the true victory he sought.
More than just a name on the roster, Ragland wears three hats — president, coach, and parent. He leads with a singular desire to help young athletes grow into skilled competitors and well-rounded individuals.
Ragland’s involvement in youth sports began as a children’s pastor at Decherd Church of God, and coaching felt like a natural extension of his ministry. He saw it as an opportunity to mentor local youth and help them get involved in community activities.
Now, with a family of six children keeping him busy, Ragland’s motivations have evolved, but his passion remains undimmed.
“Since my family has grown so much, I no longer am in ministry but continue coaching to help the younger generation learn life lessons through sports.”
Ragland believes that peewee leagues are the foundation for young athletes, introducing them to fundamental building blocks like competition and teamwork. But running a successful peewee program requires more than just optimism.
“The biggest challenge is player and parent retention,” he revealed.
But even with retention issues, Ragland finds the pros outweigh the cons.
“It’s rewarding watching kids grow from 5 to 12 years old and becoming a family.”
Keeping the program engaging is an ongoing quest. Ragland acknowledges that football is inherently competitive, but helping youth find their love for the game far surpasses winning championships. When it comes to coaching youth, Ragland advocates for a broader perspective.
“You have to have the mentality that it is a game for everyone,” he said. “Kids grow and progress at different levels. We have to give them confidence.”
Juggling the responsibilities of president, coach, and parent within the league takes remarkable time management skills and a clear sense of purpose. Ragland and the other coaches understand the importance of reminding themselves why they do what they do. Ragland said the kids are his “why,” and when your actions are motivated by genuine intentions, they don’t deplete your energy; instead, they replenish it.
Ragland’s vision reaches beyond mere athletic skill. He dreams of a program that surpasses the basics and nurtures leadership qualities in young athletes.
“I really want to develop a competitive atmosphere where kids want to be better leaders on and off the field,” he explained. “Leaders overcome adversity head-on. Football is challenging, but so is life.”
Ragland pursues ambitions beyond football and cheer. He actively seeks collaboration between middle school programs, promoting continuity within the league. He also dreams of a future where youth sports receive more significant support within the county.
But if you ask Ragland about his most rewarding experience, he wouldn’t hesitate to tell you the priceless connections he makes.
“FC has won several peewee championships since I have been president. I have coached several great teams, but nothing compares to the relationships formed with the athletes and their families in our community and surrounding areas.”
Ragland’s wife, Emily May Ragland, whom he calls his “personal champion,” stands by his side through it all.
“She got a master’s in education while working full time,” he said. “She is now the FC tennis coach and art teacher at the high school. Her dedication and compassion for her students, present and future, drives me to be better in my daily activities. I could not do what I do without her support,” he said.
Together, they are a team and a united front, inspiring the young athletes they guide.
Ragland’s commitment to leading the league and the young people it serves speaks volumes about the kind of leader, coach, and parent he is — one who inspires athletic excellence and the development of well-rounded, compassionate individuals. GN
