Stephens Co. To Look At Switching Youth Football Leagues

A local recreation department football coach is asking Stephens County to switch youth football leagues for next season.

Efrem Thornton came to Stephens County Commissioners Tuesday to bring up switching from the county’s current league to the North Georgia Youth Football Association, which would include teams from Habersham, Rabun, Banks, and Jackson counties, to name a few.

He said as it stands now, he feels that the Recreation Department’s football program is struggling because of a lack of games and competition.

“When you play the same team six times, kids and parents are not happy,” said Thornton.

He said that could cause issues with interest in the program moving forward.

According to Thornton, the North Georgia Youth Football Association would offer more games and the opportunity for playoffs.

County commissioners had previously looked at making the switch, but chose not to.

Commissioner Michelle Ivester said she is in favor of considering it, but does not want issues like travel or cost to become an issue that keeps kids from playing.

“I also do not want to leave any kids out,” said Ivester.

Stephens County Recreation Department Director Richard Adams said it would be a good league, but notes there are some higher costs.

For example, there is a $10 league membership fee for each player and also each of the counties charges a $3 admission per person to attend the games.

Commissioner Dean Scarborough said he would like to see a cost comparison.

“I think what would help all of us is a comparative analysis of what the current program costs, not just the county but the parents, and what the new program would cost so we can compare apples and apples,” said Scarborough.

Stephens County Commissioners did not make a final decision Tuesday and will review the cost information provided on the two leagues.