October 6, 2025—The much-anticipated head-to-head football meeting between the McEachern Indians (5-0 overall, 2-0 in Region 3) and the Harrison Hoyas (5-0, 2-0 in Region 3) garnered statewide attention. Matchups between undefeated teams in the Georgia High School Association (GHSA) Class 6A midway through the season are rare, especially when they arise from the same region. Unsurprisingly, the game was televised, and several local sports outlets were in attendance.

The first half was as evenly matched as one would expect from such a mammoth contest. The game remained scoreless through the first 12 minutes. Then, in the second quarter, both offenses entered the end zone twice, resulting in a 14-14 halftime score. 

The second half began much like the first, with neither team taking control. However, the game itself soon became less important. Midway through the third quarter, one student-athlete experienced a medical emergency on his team’s sideline. Coaches alerted GHSA game officials, and the game was halted. The safety of our students is of paramount importance. Athletic directors from both schools, Emergency Medical Technicians and school trainers immediately enacted their Emergency Action Plan (EAP), which was discussed prior to the game. Don Baker, Cobb County Director of Athletics, was at the game and watched carefully from nearby.

“Emergency personnel responded swiftly and effectively to the medical event,” Baker said. “At no point was the student ever without capable and compassionate care. The athletic trainers and team doctors from both schools demonstrated outstanding professionalism, working seamlessly alongside emergency responders. Special recognition goes to athletic directors Myra Camese and Wes Ellis, who activated the Emergency Action Plan flawlessly. Their leadership and preparedness ensured the student received immediate medical attention and was safely transferred into the care of medical personnel, where they continued to be well cared for.”

The Cobb County School District utilizes a "20-Minute Meeting" before each football game, bringing together essential officials and game managers to prepare for significant emergency response events. With Baker leading the way, Cobb Schools serves as a model across Georgia that other districts are following to begin similar preparations.

In this instance, due in part to the Cobb's plan in place, the student-athlete received immediate aide, the medical attention he needed, and is thankfully doing well.

Although the game had become secondary, it still offered more thrilling action. McEachern would go on to score five more touchdowns while limiting Harrison to just one more score. The 48-21 win was one with which Indians Head Coach Kareem Reid was very pleased.

“This game was extremely important,” Reid said after the game. “They were the defending region champions, and we knew that winning this game would keep us on track towards accomplishing our first goal of winning a region title.”

McEachern had 353 yards rushing as a team, led by seniors Henry Pullen (155 yards, 2 TDs) and Calvin Pittman, Jr. (141 yards, 2 TDs). Senior Zalvon Harris added 153 receiving yards and a touchdown.

Still, the real heroes of the night were those involved in carrying out a flawless EAP for a student in need.

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