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Featured Article

Spartans Rising Strong

Investing in the New Era of Campbell High School Football

Article by Hilary Stifelmeyer

Photography by Provided by Campbell High School Football Boosters

Originally published in Smyrna Vinings Lifestyle

For years, the Campbell High School Spartans football program has struggled to build a competitive legacy. But now, with a renewed focus, a determined coaching staff, and a cultural shift emphasizing discipline, hard work, and unity, the Spartans are setting their sights on becoming a championship-caliber team.

At the heart of this transformation is a leadership group committed to instilling a winning mindset in its players. Head Coach Jeff Phillips has brought a fresh vision to the program, prioritizing player development, strength and conditioning, and a team-first mentality. The coaching staff is dedicated not just to building talented athletes but to shaping well-rounded young men who excel both on and off the field.

One of the most significant changes in the program has been the emphasis on accountability and discipline. From offseason training to game-day execution, the Spartans have embraced a new level of commitment. Players are buying into the philosophy that championships are built in the weight room, the film room, and through relentless daily effort. This dedication is already yielding results, with noticeable improvements in performance, teamwork, and resilience.

Over the past two years, the program has made remarkable progress, reaching the playoffs in 2023 and securing its first winning season since 2007 in 2024. Additionally, 13 athletes signed letters of intent to play college football next year—the most of any school in Cobb County.

Notable Achievements from the 2024 Season

  • School Rushing Record: 576 yards in a single game
  • #3 Ranked Defense in program history
  • Largest Defensive Scoring Improvement in program history
  • #6 Ranked Offense in program history
  • Special Teams Led the Region in blocked kicks
  • Biggest Culture Change in Cobb County (improved ranking from 17th to 6th, as voted by Cobb County)
  • 43 Colleges visited Campbell High School to recruit players
  • Jr. Spartan Program Success:
    • 6th grade team won the B Division Championship
    • 7th grade team hosted a playoff game
    • 8th grade team increased total wins for the season
  • 2024 Fox 5 Sports High 5 Team of the Week

Beyond the field, the Spartans are making waves in the community, gaining support from fans, alumni, and local businesses. Excitement for the program is growing, and the team is feeding off that energy. With young talent emerging and a competitive fire burning, the future of Campbell High football has never looked brighter.

The Need for Facility Upgrades

To maintain this momentum, retain top talent within the community, and compete with other programs in the area, facility upgrades are a must—something that has been significantly neglected over the past 30 years.

The immediate priority is improving the fieldhouse and locker room facilities. Modern, secure lockers are essential for athletes to store their equipment safely and to foster a sense of pride and unity within the team. However, many may not realize that Cobb County does not fund athletic programs within its schools, meaning Campbell’s football program relies heavily on fundraising and sponsorships.

 

How You Can Help

We are seeking to raise $75,000 for this much-needed project and are reaching out to community members, local businesses, and alumni for support. Your generous contribution will directly impact our student-athletes by providing them with the resources they need to succeed both on and off the field.

Donations can be made via GoFundMe and are tax-deductible. Donors who contribute $500 or more will be prominently recognized through various channels, including:

  • On-field banners
  • Visibility on the team’s official website and social media platforms
  • Logo placement in the Spartans’ media guide and other promotional materials

Donate today!  Visit www.campbellfootball.com to find out how to help!

 

A Program on the Rise

The road to a championship isn’t easy, but the foundation is being laid for sustained success. The Campbell Spartans are no longer just another team—they are a program on the rise, ready to make a statement in Georgia high school football and bring pride to the Smyrna community.

Keep an eye on the Spartans—because this is only the beginning of something special.

Campbell High School Football Boosters, Inc.
campbellfootballboosters@gmail.com

About Campbell High School

Located in Smyrna, GA, Campbell High School offers a strong academic program, including the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program, which prepares students for college-level coursework. The school provides a diverse range of extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and clubs, fostering well-rounded student development. With a focus on innovation and student success, Campbell also offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and career pathways to help students achieve their goals.

"The Spartans are no longer just another team—they’re a program on the rise, building a championship mindset through discipline, teamwork, and resilience."

"With a renewed culture of accountability, hard work, and unity, the Campbell Spartans have transformed into a competitive force—earning their first winning season since 2007 and sending 13 athletes to play college football next year."

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