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The Greenville Tigers played their final varsity football game in the historic Tiger Stadium against Wetumpka on Friday. Greenville rallied against the Indians in a close game that ended with a loss 34-31. Head coach Garrick Pimienta said he is proud of how the team competed and explained the loss was due to unforced errors. 

“We are going to take a step back and reassess why this is a continued issue,” Pimienta said. “Because if we want to be in the discussion of a premier team in the state, the effort we displayed Friday must also be accompanied by an understanding that we cannot have so many penalties.”

Tiger player No. 5, Ty Phillips, got Greenville on the board with two rushing touchdowns in the game. Kaldarus Williams, No. 10, found the end zone with a 31-yard touchdown run and BJ Dickerson, No. 7, connected with No. 1, Bobby Bedgood Jr., on a long touchdown pass.

Offensive line coach and recruiting coordinator Jeff Fuller said he is proud of the offensive line and the potential they have. 

“There were a lot of naysayers about how our offensive line would perform before the season and these guys have come ready to work each week and it’s starting to show on the field,” Fuller said. “Over 300 yards rushing is huge. We’ve still got a lot to work on but I love the potential we have.”

Fans filled the stadium that night to give tribute to the historic stadium that was built in September 1938. Nancy Idland, director of the Greenville Area Arts Council, said the stadium is a very special place in the community. 

“It’s such a huge part of our community, even prior to integration,” Idland said. “That was the high school where everyone attended and played sports there. My mother, myself and my daughter were all cheerleaders in that stadium. It’s just a wonderful place in our town. I hope the old stadium can continue to be used because those concrete bleachers are there to stay.”

Pimienta said he is proud to have been part of the final history of the Tiger Stadium. 

“So many great people and players have played and watched the Tigers play in that stadium,” Pimienta said. “Although we couldn’t close it with a victory, I am proud to have been part of the rich tradition and history that Tiger Stadium provides.”

Fuller described the night as bittersweet, but said the team looks forward to what’s to come. 

“It was a bittersweet end to being at Tiger stadium,” Fuller said. “I went from being a manager, to a player, to a coach in that stadium and I will always be thankful for the memories it has brought me. We are more than ready to make some great memories in the new stadium now!”

The Tigers’ next game will be away against Headland on Oct. 6.