"Where Are They Now" Michael Youngblood

Published in January 12 issue of The Madison County Journal

By Dallas Bordon

Michael Youngblood Class of 98

Michael Youngblood graduated from Madison County High School in 1998. He now serves as Head Coach of the Oconee County boys’ varsity basketball team as well as Head Coach of the girls’ golf team (2010 State Champions). Michael currently teaches social studies; American Government and U.S. History. He has been at Oconee County High School for 5 years.

While at Madison County High School, Michael was a member of the Red Raider baseball team for one year, but his passion was being part of Raider basketball - playing all four years. After graduating from Madison County, Michael continued playing basketball for two years at Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, Georgia.

Youngblood graduated for the University of Georgia in 2003 and in August of 2010 he earned his Master’s Degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment from Walden University.

Michael credits his parents as well as Allen McCannon, Mike Osborne, Brad Bolemon, and Benjie Wood for being positive influences in his life throughout high school. “They were positive influences that molded me into the person I am today,” said Youngblood. “Even though I’m not around MCHS much, I am very fortunate to have these men in my life and I feel as if I can reach out to these guys any time.”

Although Michael’s time at Madison County was filled with many great memories and friendships that he stills values today, he claims his junior year of playing basketball as his most exciting year. “In my junior year we won our region tournament and advanced to the state tournament. We were very talented and led by a large group of seniors. We lost in the state tournament to Rome High School,” said Youngblood.

Youngblood was also very involved with Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Other great memories for Youngblood included Black Mountain Winter Recharge, summer basketball camps, and Friday night high school football games.

Michael is happily married to Jennifer Elizabeth Queen. Michael and Jennifer were married this past summer in Jekyl Island and are expecting a baby boy in the near future. Michael also has a step daughter, five year old Alexa Ryan.