A few dedicated Bobcat fans tackle the field and stadium in Phil Campbell to get everything in tip-top shape prior to the start of football season.

by Josh Prewitt for the FCT

This past weekend, cleanup at Parrish Stadium, home of the Phil Campbell Bobcats, began in preparation for the upcoming football season, executed through the Quarterback Club.

Phil Campbell is coming off an exciting playoff season last year anchored by now third-year head coach Ryan Swinney.

“We’ve done this stadium clean up my three years here and years before that,” Swinney said. “We weed-eat, bush hog, clean and clear the field of rocks and all. We just like to get all the players, families and coaches together to help get the field in the best shape we can for the upcoming season. It’s something to get everyone pumped and ready for Friday night lights.”

Swinney said this about how much the Quarterback Club means to him and Phil Campbell football. “The Quarterback Club does so great and treats us just like the family we are around here,” he said. “They provide food for us and even provide the bus to take us to our away games. They are important to us and know how the atmosphere is here in Bobcat Country.”

The Phil Campbell Bobcats made their appearance in the playoffs for the first time in nine years last year, and they hope to keep riding that momentum.

“I’m very passionate about this school and football here,” Swinney said. “We all are. We’re so close and tight-knit, like family. This is my home – where I grew up and played football. This will be third year as head coach of the Bobcats, and I’m hoping we do bigger and better things this year.

“My first year we went 0-10, but last year we made the playoffs, and this year our goal will be to not just make the playoff – we want to finish in top 2 of our region and host a playoff game here at Parrish Stadium.”

Phil Campbell football hopes for a fast start this year, Swinney said. “I really hope for a fast start this upcoming football season,” Swinney said. “I want to create a buzz around here In Bobcat Country and get these seats here packed on Friday nights and give everyone something to be excited about. I think a fast good start will do just that.”