Kentucky high school football has seen its share of incredible performances, but some records have stood the test of time, remaining unbroken for decades. These are some of the most remarkable individual records in the history of Kentucky high school football, with a focus on defense and offensive feats that still stand today.
One of the most attractive records is the number of touchdowns scored in a single game. Back in 1968, Don Gullett, a running back for McKell High School in Greenup County, set the bar high with an astonishing 11 touchdowns. This record has remained untouched for over 50 years. Recently, Byron Kirkland Lundy of Metcalf County High School came close, tying the second-place record of 10 touchdowns in a game, set by Herbie Phelps in 1962. Lundy didn’t realize he was on pace to break a record until late in the game, but afterward, he became an instant local celebrity, with his phone blowing up and fans clamoring for pictures and autographs.
On the defensive side of the ball, records like Steve Shaw’s 34 career interceptions at Iroquois High School have stood for over 40 years. Shaw, who graduated in 1981, describes himself as a "ball hog," always in position to make a play. His record is so far ahead of second place that no one has come within five interceptions of his mark. Shaw’s ability to read the game and anticipate passes helped him set this untouchable record, which remains a defining moment in Kentucky football history.
Another record that still holds is Rocky Huber’s 11 career blocked punts for Pleasure Ridge Park High School. Huber's unique approach to blocking punts, including watching the center's hand movements for clues, helped him set this record in the mid-90s. Huber believes he would have blocked even more punts had they kept track of his earlier years. He also set a single-game record with four blocked punts in one contest.
Lastly, Steve Tinsley’s 4 fumble recoveries in a single game (1982, Crittenden County) is another defensive record that has stood the test of time. Tinsley, known for his quickness and ball awareness, made his mark in a game against Callaway County and holds the record for over 40 years.
These records show the level of excellence achieved by athletes in Kentucky high school football and offer a glimpse into the extraordinary feats that can still inspire future players to aim for greatness.
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