James Ford’s return to the Blue Devils has been a rough ride
CULPEPER, Va. — James Ford, the Culpeper High School varsity football head coach, has a long history with the team. He was recently appointed as the head coach in 2021 and the team and the school welcomed him fondly.
But Ford was chosen for the position back in 2019 and at the same time was appointed to teach physical education. He had to leave the team because of his battle with Leukemia. As his health declined and he started to lose a lot of weight, at the doctor’s suggestion he avoided any kind of stress that came with the coaching, consequently, missing the entire 2019 season.
His comeback to coaching has made him quite happy.
“I’ve been looking forward to this for a long time,” he said. “The past year and a half has been a real challenge, between my health and the pandemic.”
Luckily, Ford was revealed to be in remission, later declared cancer-free. He is now totally focused on his new life and his passion as a coach.
The 2021 season start deemed tough for Ford and the Blue Devils going 0-3. Ford still stayed hopeful through it all.
“It’s been a tough start, but the season is only halfway over,” he said at the time. “We are trying to go back to the drawing board and figure out what works for us and what doesn’t.”
Ford’s faith in the team remained firm.
“We have a lot of guys that can make a difference in the run game for us,” he added.
The Blue Devils kicked off the season facing Fauquier High School but could not perform very well.
“A series of mistakes ultimately led to the Blue Devils’ defeat,” Ford said after the game.
The 2021 season has been rough for Ford as well as the team. The overall losses conquered the wins. Among 16 matches, the Blue Devils won six and lost 10.
The wins included against Fauquier Falcons in March, one win against Rock Ridge Phoenix, Liberty-Bealeton Eagles in September, Caroline Cavaliers, and Spotsylvania Knights. The losses included against Fauquier Falcons in February, Liberty-Bealeton Eagles in March, Kettle Run Cougars, John Handley Judges, Sherando Warriors, Eastern View Cyclones, Orange County Fighting Hornets, King George Foxes, Courtland Cougars in October, Chancellor Chargers, and Goochland Bulldogs in November.
The season ended on a bad note 23-24 against the Bulldogs.
Even though it has been tough, Ford stood his ground. Over the years, Blue Devils football has flourished and made quite a reputation for itself.
However, they have faced a lot of loss in the past few seasons with coach turnovers and the effects of Covid-19.
“James Ford will help bring back the pride and traditions (of Culpeper Blue Devils football) he so fondly remembers,” former Blue Devils quarterback and state champion Mike Jenkins said.
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