Mt. Airy, GA — For Kevin Ellison, the moment was about more than recognition — it was about community, memories and the people who helped shape his journey.
Ellison, one of the most electrifying players in Habersham Central Raiders history, was formally inducted into the school’s Ring of Honor as part of the 2026 class. The ceremony, held alongside a weekend of events including a golf tournament, brought together former players, coaches and supporters of Habersham Central football.
“It was a great time,” Ellison said. “I enjoyed being able to be recognized in front of a bunch of great people — people that poured so much into our community. Overall, it was a great experience.”
Ellison was introduced by former coach and mentor Alex Page, a fitting choice for a player who credits much of his development to those who guided him along the way.
“He was one of my coaches coming up and pretty much like my mentor all throughout my high school career,” Ellison said. “So I figured it was only right that he would be the one to introduce me.”
Ellison said he learned about the honor about a month in advance after receiving a call from Habersham Central head coach Benji Harrison and school athletic director David Foster.
“I was just kind of elated,” he said.
A Career Defined By Big Moments
While Ellison’s career included plenty of highlights, one moment still stands above the rest — a dramatic home victory during his senior season.
“I would have to say the game my senior year, we played Salem at home,” Ellison said. “We won the game in the last minute, and everybody stormed the field. That was probably the moment.”
The 2011 matchup against Salem, a game in which the Raiders were heavy underdogs, became one of the most memorable nights in program history — a defining snapshot of Ellison’s impact on the field.
That season, Ellison delivered one of the most dominant performances in Georgia high school football. He rushed for more than 2,100 yards and over 30 touchdowns, earning Atlanta Journal-Constitution Offensive Player of the Year honors across all classifications.
Whether lining up at quarterback or contributing in multiple roles, Ellison’s ability to score from anywhere on the field made him a constant threat.
Ricky Kimsey, chairman of Ring of Honor recalled “Any time they gave him the ball, he was a scoring machine,” — a reputation backed up by his production.
Success At The Next Level
Ellison’s success continued at Georgia Southern Eagles football, where he played five seasons in the Eagles’ triple-option offense.
During his college career, Ellison helped lead Georgia Southern to a Sun Belt Conference championship and was named the league’s Offensive Player of the Year in 2014. He finished his career with more than 2,500 rushing yards and over 35 rushing touchdowns, along with more than 4,000 passing yards.
Giving Back To The Community
Today, Ellison remains closely connected to the game — and to the next generation of athletes.
He serves as a club fit coordinator for the Boys & Girls Club of Lanier, where he organizes and coaches youth sports programs.
“I handle all of our sports leagues and coach all of our sports leagues,” Ellison said.
It’s a role that allows him to pass along the same lessons and mentorship that shaped his own career.
A Lasting Legacy
Ellison’s induction into the Ring of Honor cements his place among the all-time greats in Habersham Central history. But for him, the recognition is just one part of a much bigger picture.
Surrounded by former teammates, coaches and community members, the weekend served as a reminder of the lasting impact of Habersham Central football — and the players who helped define it.
“It means a lot,” Ellison said. “I really appreciate it.”
