VALDOSTA, GA – Valdosta High School was searching for a leader among last year’s offense as it has to replace its senior quarterback and several offensive linemen who also graduated in 2013. With three classmates competing for the position, the VHS coaching staff began to take notice of junior Cole Massingill. As the summer progressed and the young QB took more snaps, he began to find his rhythm. Massingill looked comfortable in the pocket, and his passes were accurate.
He played seven on seven games throughout the summer, and he felt confident in his ability to lead and score points. But the young man’s hopes were crushed before the season started. On the first day of school, he tore his ACL and had to undergo knee surgery. His season ended before the scrimmage, and after what seemed like a lifetime of preparation, his time on the field was suddenly in peril.

Cole Massingill’s football career began with pads and helmets at the age of six. “I never played flag football,” he says, “I started straight with the big boys.” Working under center may seem like a natural fit for the Valdosta QB to anyone who knows the Massingill family as he is a second generation quarterback. His father, Brian Massingill, played for Tift County in the early 80s. In fact, he led the Blue Devils to the 1983 state championship and was named an All-State player that season. In addition to his state championship ring and All-State status, the elder Massingill went on to play for the University of Florida. As a Gator, he enjoyed some successful seasons, as well.

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