CityScope Magazine Annual High School Football Collector's Edition 2023

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FIND THE GOLDEN FOOTBALL TO WIN $500 FOR YOUR TEAM’S BOOSTER CLUB!

Each year, CityScope® magazine donates nearly 5,000 copies of our Annual High School Football Collector’s Edition to local high schools. Copies of this special issue can be purchased at games or tailgates through booster clubs across nine counties in our area, and all proceeds from these sales directly benefit the schools.

This year, we will donate an additional $2,000 to support our local booster clubs – but they need your help to win!

Four CityScope® Magazine Golden Footballs have been randomly hidden between the pages of four different magazines provided to booster clubs. All you have to do is find a Golden Football and redeem the secret code to win a $500 donation from our company to your school’s booster club.

As you enjoy this magazine, be sure to keep an eye out for a Golden Football for your school’s chance to win!

2023 ANNUAL HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL COLLECTOR’S EDITION

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HOW IT WORKS

1. Search your copy of CityScope® magazine’s Annual High School Football Collector’s Edition (2023) cover to cover to see if you got one of the four CityScope® Magazine Golden Footballs.

2. Call the phone number on the back of the Golden Football, tell us the name of your school, and redeem your secret code.

3. Your school's booster club wins a $500 donation from CityScope® magazine!

Over a decade ago, we introduced CityScope® magazine’s Annual High School Football Collector’s Edition to showcase high school players and coaches from the Chattanooga area while also giving back to the community. Today our publication continues to celebrate our local football community while helping to raise much-needed funds for area schools.

This year, we are proud to present the 11th issue, which includes profiles of 41 teams spanning nine counties. Each profile includes coach’s comments, gameday photos, stats, and this year’s team schedule and roster.

Equally entertaining are our features. First up, “Alma Mater Magic” shines a light on head coaches leading programs at schools they once played for. Meanwhile, “The Deciding Factor” presents past football greats who were highly recruited by schools across the country. “MVP Moms” features women known for going above and beyond to support their families and their kids’ football teams, and “Top Dogs” highlights 30 years of state championship teams.

To provide insight into the upcoming season, we also share this year’s “20 Players to Watch” and “The Red Zone Review.” You won’t want to miss Quake and Cowboy Joe’s expert predictions by region!

Here’s to another great year of high school football!

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2023 ANNUAL HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

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When it comes to football, there are many paths to success. To get there, coaches can utilize a myriad of tools, one of which is an unwavering belief that your program has what it takes to be the best. Here, we’ve talked to 12 head coaches who are now heading up the very programs they were once a part of. School spirit runs deep, and the drive to give back to their communities is unparalleled. Read on to learn how these men are pouring into their players and what motivates them to step onto the gridiron with both grit and grace week after week.

BY CHRISTINA DAVENPORT / PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICH SMITH

PHOTO BY NATHALIE DUPRÉ

Entering into his fifth year as head coach, Josh Groce is hoping to provide his players with something he never had as a Gordon Lee High School football player – consistency. During the four years that Groce was playing as a running back and defensive back in the late 90s, he had three separate head coaches. Now he’s entering a new season and is more focused than ever on having his staff operate as a well-oiled machine so that players can focus on improving their game.

“The biggest thing I have tried to do in the four seasons I have been here is to keep the same coaching staff together. I think it’s huge to have continuity in the staff,” says Groce. “What I love most is seeing a group of players become a team. The challenges always change in finding ways to help them gel and become a team. Every year there is a different dynamic, but it is our job as coaches to navigate through them.”

The solid foundation that Groce has laid in regard to his coaching staff means players can focus on executing the changing game of football. Looking to the future, Groce is concentrated on evolving schematically in order to keep up with the best. To get there, it all comes down to hard work.

“I never was the biggest, strongest, or fastest. I relied heavily on my work ethic,” recalls Groce. “I have a high expectation for our team’s ability to work hard, not just during the regular season but also in the off-season.”

In addition to fostering a top-notch work ethic and providing stability, Groce hopes that every player that passes through Gordon Lee’s football program has had their life – not just their ability to play football –changed in some way.

“I want players to leave knowing that I cared about them as a person, not just a player,” adds Groce. “Given that I graduated from Gordon Lee, it’s also neat whenever I have the opportunity to coach a former teammate’s son. It can sometimes bring some unforeseen challenges, but for the most part, it’s a really exciting and rewarding experience to be a head coach at your alma mater.”

Class of 2000

(RIGHT) PHOTO BY TREVOR LONG

When Jeff Poston reflects back on his most fond memory as head coach for Dade County High School, there is one moment in time that stands out.

“Hands down it was beating South Pittsburg in 2021. They had a good team and went on to win state that year. I challenged the kids to focus on us and ignore what everyone else had to say about the game,” reflects Poston. “We came away with a five-point win at home in front of our fans. That memory will always be special to me because it helped propel us to a region runner-up finish and our first playoff berth.”

But wins like the one against South Pittsburg don’t come without focus and determination. When Poston, who is now entering his fourth season as head coach, was playing for Dade County in the late 80s and early 90s, one of the biggest lessons he learned was how to deal with adversity, and he hopes that his players are able to gain a similar experience during their time at Dade County.

“I love being able to push people toward their true capabilities,” adds Poston. “I define success as the continued effort to get better. That’s what I want the kids who play here to take away from their time as a Wolverine. They should never settle, and they should never let other people set their ceiling in life.”

Poston sets out each day aiming to help his players become the best versions of themselves. Poston himself has been surrounded by an amazing group of mentors and support staff during his time as both a player and a coach, and he’s now hoping to be that person for others in his life.

“I’m working on getting better at communicating expectations, but mostly I hope that when players leave, they remember me as being someone that really cared about them and wanted to see them succeed,” says Poston.

Class of 1992

WES STONE

As one of the winningest teams in the area, South Pittsburg has quite the reputation when it comes to football, but the Pirates’ successes haven’t come without hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Head coach Wes Stone was a center and defensive end for the team in the early 90s and knows first-hand what it takes to be the best.

“As a player, I learned a lesson of how it felt to come up just short of a state championship in 1993, but having to work harder the next year in order to win a state championship,” says Stone. “Every lesson you learn is not always about today. I use this lesson often with our kids to illustrate the need to work harder than the day before.”

As he reflects on his coaching career, one of Stone’s most fond memories is being part of yet another championship run. In 2021, the Pirates were pegged as underdogs to the McKenzie Rebels but went on to beat them by three points in the Class 1A State Championship.

“Overcoming what that team had to overcome with Coach Jones leaving after one game, the program being shut down for three weeks due to Covid, and me being an interim coach won’t ever be forgotten,” adds Stone.

Stone, who is now in his second official season as head coach, is able to lean on a wealth of experience to continue leading a high-caliber team. Add to that the unwavering support of not just the school but the entire community, and it’s no wonder South Pittsburg is able to make regular playoff appearances.

While the players that come and go from the football program at South Pittsburg will undoubtedly remember the big wins, Stone hopes they walk away with something more.

“It’s great when our players get to become part of a brotherhood that lasts a lifetime and then graduate and go on to become great men and contributors to our community,” says Stone. “I hope they remember that I love them and that I am always here for them throughout their lives.”

JAMES MANNING OOLTEWAH HIGH SCHOOL

Roughly a decade after James Manning graced the gridiron as Ooltewah’s quarterback and safety, he returned to lead the Owls in the capacity of head coach. For Manning, this role is more than the opportunity to win some games and build a notable program, it’s an opportunity to pour into a community that gave him so much as he was growing up.

Now in his third year as head coach, Manning will be the first to admit that he doesn’t carry the tenure of other coaches in the area but his presence brings a freshness to Ooltewah’s program that is able to create some buy-in.

“I think that it helps that I am not too far removed from the program and school. Many of my teachers from high school are now my colleagues. I believe we have their full support, which is important when you are rebuilding,” says Manning. “The challenging part about being an alumni in the big chair is that all the bad things seem to weigh more.”

Regardless of the challenges, Manning approaches his duty as head coach with grace, enthusiasm, and most importantly, compassion. He believes that every player, regardless of skillset, should have the opportunity to be part of something bigger, and that mentality has gone a long way in setting a new type of culture for the Owls.

“I hope that every kid that comes out of this program knows that with every hard conversation, with every tough choice we present them with, we are doing it because we want to help make them better men, husbands, and fathers, and I hope that they know I love them very much,” says Manning. “If we coach these kids the right way and love them the right way and if I coach long enough for them to want to send their kids to me, that will be a big win in my book.”

While Manning and the rest of the staff at Ooltewah have a strong culture of caring for and supporting their players and one another, he’s looking forward to that paying off on the scoreboard. “Our kids ended last year with a different mentality, and they are hungry for a change,” he says.

Class of 2011

NICHLAS RIVERS III

HIXSON HIGH SCHOOL

The locker room at Hixson High School is full of anticipation as the 2023 football season approaches. New on the scene is Nichlas Rivers III who is entering his first year as a head coach eager to leave the same impression on his players that his coaches had on him when he played for the Hixson Wildcats from 1999 to 2002.

Once a linebacker, running back, and tight end for the program, Rivers has focused the last few months on reigniting a sense of pride in his players.

“When I was a player, there was more of a sense of pride about the program. It is starting to feel that way again here now. I want our players to walk around proud to be associated with high-character football,” says Rivers. “My high school coaches were tough but fair. They had expectations for and held us accountable for our play and our character. I am holding our players accountable just like when I played. This approach helps create great men after their playing days are over.”

While his players are working to strengthen their skills and character, Rivers is also learning the lay of the land as a coach, but he’s the first to note that he has a great support system.

“I learned as an athlete to take ownership and responsibility for my decisions, and that lesson is serving me well as a coach so far. I try not to make excuses, but rather look for solutions,” says Rivers. “Moving forward my biggest challenges will be the little things behind the scenes, but I feel I have surrounded myself with veteran coaches that will help with any challenges that arise.”

In addition to the support of his coaching staff, Rivers has also received a warm welcome from the community and all of the players on this year’s roster.

“My most fond memory thus far has been the day I was introduced to the team. Finding out that these young men wanted me to be their coach was a humbling experience, and it was nice to feel wanted,” says Rivers. “I know every player will not be all-state, but their experience can still be great. I hope they remember the life lessons that football teaches and know that they have a place they can call home, a place where they are cared for.”

Class of 2003

When Craig Pritchett reflects on the future of the Ridgeland High School football team, he is full of optimism. Pritchett played as a linebacker and offensive guard for the Ridgeland Panthers in the late 90s and was fortunate enough to be a member of a playoff team each year he was in high school. While the Panthers are not currently leading the pack when it comes to district finishes, Pritchett can feel the tide turning and knows that it’s just a matter of time until they are a playoff program once again.

“We’re in a different era of football. The program has changed with the times and is looking to get back to its winning ways,” says Pritchett. “We are working to establish a culture built on believing in something greater and get back to the physical brand of football Ridgeland has been known for in the past.”

In the off-season, Pritchett has been focused on improving the overall physicality of his players and ramping up not only power but also strength and speed. In contrast to the coaching staff when he was in high school, Pritchett notes that his current staff is relatively young, but they bring with them an energy that is being matched by the players.

“Ridgeland is full of kids that have overcome a lot of adversity and are really resilient. We are looking to tap into and unleash that power,” he says.

In his second year as head coach, Pritchett has just as much school pride today as he did when he was attending Ridgeland, and that very pride continues to give him the gumption to show up day in and day out for those that depend on him.

“I cherish the relationships that I am able to build with other coaches, players, and students, but finding the time to balance all the things that come with being a head coach can be a huge challenge,” says Pritchett. “That being said, I have a lot of pride in Ridgeland High School, and it’s easier for me to do the extra things that are needed right now because I see the program getting back on its feet and being one of the premier places to play in the area.”

Class of 1999

The Potter name is synonymous with McCallie football.

Head coach Ralph Potter has been at the helm for 22 years and even served as the team’s quarterback and free safety when he attended the school in the late 70s and early 80s. But the long-lasting football legacy doesn’t stop there. Potter’s father, Pete, also coached the McCallie team from 1973 to 1993 and was Potter’s head coach during his stint as a player.

“When you’ve been at the same place for 50 years, life starts to get a richness to it,” says Potter. “I think part of why we have been so successful is because McCallie as a school mirrors the philosophy that my dad and I have had for the football program.”

Given the lengthy history with the school, Potter is more than qualified to help McCallie’s young men learn the game and a few extra life lessons along the way. Over the years, Potter notes that the game of football has gotten more complex, but that training programs have answered the call. Not only has training itself improved, but ancillary elements such as medical resources and support staff have also grown leaps and bounds and continue to play a large role in McCallie’s successes.

When reflecting on the more than two decades as head coach, Potter cites the relationships he’s built and a love for the game that he’s been able to foster as some of his proudest moments.

“I love the relationships that I have been able to create as a result of my job. I also really love the pure coaching part – the process of having an idea in your mind and then placing it into the minds of players so they embody your concept,” he says. “The challenge has been to constantly change and adjust everything in the program. You really have to pay attention.”

For Potter, there are always opportunities for improvement. As a coach, he is consistently working on his weaknesses while playing to his strengths and encourages his players to do the same.

“Our objective is to win a state championship every year,” says Potter. “In committing to that, each player and coach must learn to give up himself out of love to accomplish our objective. It is in this giving that our deeper purpose can be reached.”

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DAMON FLOYD BRADLEY CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

For Damon Floyd, coaching the Bradley Central Bears is just as much about preparing players for life after high school as it is winning games. Floyd played for the Bears himself as a running back and defensive back in the mid-90s, and while some things have changed, he notes that the dedication to the program has been unwavering all this time.

“When I was in high school our coaching staff was really intelligent and embodied hardnose discipline,” says Floyd. “Today we aim to instill that same level of discipline, and the individuals I have coaching by my side are hardworking men of character.”

In addition to teaching practical skills of the game and serving as role models, Floyd and the other Bradley Central coaches hope that every player leaving their program will remember to always practice what they preach and leave high school knowing how to hold themselves accountable.

“Our goal as a team is to win every rep whether that’s on the field, in the classroom, or in the weight room,” says Floyd. “There is always adversity after a player goes through our program, and we just hope that their time on the team means they are more equipped to handle it.”

When asked about why he loves to coach, Floyd says that it’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of a team and to have the opportunity to continually build relationships with his players and others in the community. “The hard part? Well, that would be the budget. It’s one of our biggest challenges as a program,” he says.

Floyd does feel that having familiarity with the school gives him a leg up, however. Being an alumnus of Bradley Central means that he sets out every day to continue the rich tradition and school pride that came before him, and that is what gives him the energy to tackle challenges head-on.

“At Bradley Central, we try to focus on ourselves and not be concerned with other programs,” adds Floyd. “Each year we just try to improve on every aspect of our own program and results will follow.”

Class of 1996

For Kit Carpenter, leading the Dalton Catamounts isn’t about reinventing the wheel or rehauling the program. In fact, Carpenter’s goal is quite the opposite. As a linebacker for Dalton in the late 80s and early 90s, he remembers first and foremost who his coaches were as people and the impact they had on him and his teammates.

“When I played, the coaching staff was about relationships,” he explains. “They had a great knowledge of the game, but they could get the best out of us because of our relationships. We are working to continue that same style of coaching with our current staff.”

Now in his third year as head coach, Carpenter is focusing on showing up for his players and perpetuating the lessons football taught him as a young man - discipline, accountability, sacrifice, commitment, and heart. While these core values of the Dalton program have been unwavering for decades, Carpenter does note the game looks a little different than it once did.

“The rules that govern practice have changed a great deal, and that has taken away from some of the traditions, such as camp, that we have enjoyed over the years,” he says.

But for every tradition that has changed, there is one that has remained the same, and that gives Carpenter a leg up. “Having familiarity with the traditions and expectations has impacted me because I have the same expectations that have always been a part of Dalton football, regardless of the situation.”

This consistency in culture, coaching, and expectations lets Dalton’s players focus less on the inner workings of team life and more on executing the challenge at hand.

When asked what he loves most about coaching, Carpenter emphasizes how rewarding it can be to help guide young players.

“These days, one of our top challenges is developing young men into football players while they have so many distractions going on around them, but to see them grow is the definition of success for me,” says Carpenter. “I really love being involved with the game, and there’s no better feeling than to see the look in our kids’ eyes when they are successful.”

KIT CARPENTER DALTON HIGH SCHOOL

ROCKY STEPHENSON WHITWELL HIGH SCHOOL

If you were to ask Rocky Stephenson about his coaching style, he’d likely tell you that it’s a culmination of everyone who has influenced his life over the years.

“I have worked with and played for a lot of good coaches, and I have taken something from all of them,” says Stephenson, Whitwell High School’s head football coach for three years running. “One trait that they have all shared was the ability to work through adversity.”

Not only does Stephenson aim to work through challenges and adversity that he faces as a head coach; he tries to instill a similar skill set in his players as well.

Stephenson was a Whitwell Tiger himself in the late 80s and served his team as a running back and corner. While he notes the Whitwell brand of football hasn’t changed much throughout the years, the rules governing the game have. Even then, Stephenson says the key to success has been and always will be hard work.

“There are no shortcuts to success. Football has taught me to set a goal and work hard to reach it,” he adds. “I hope that our players learn to never give up, and I want to see them succeed in all aspects of life including in the classroom and in athletics.”

In order to help players reach their full potential both on the field and off, Stephenson has surrounded himself with a tight-knit coaching staff. These coaches are varied in their approach but they all care deeply for the kids –something that is one of Stephenson’s chief motivators for being a head coach.

“I enjoy being a leader and teaching life lessons that impact people in a positive way,” says Stephenson. “I hope the kids that play for me feel as though I always treated them with respect and know that I care about them.”

While Stephenson undoubtedly enjoys being able to positively impact players and even fellow coaches, he is quick to admit that his love for the game is just as strong.

“There’s nothing quite like the excitement I feel on a game day,” he says. “I just try to enjoy each and every opportunity I get to run out on the field with my players on

Class of 1989

TED GATEWOOD

RED BANK HIGH SCHOOL

Every time Ted Gatewood steps out on the field as Red Bank High School’s head football coach, it is somewhat of a familiar experience. Gatewood played football himself at Red Bank from 1981 to 1983 and was on the roster as a center, defensive tackle, and long snapper. But he isn’t alone in this feat. Gatewood enters the 2023 season coaching alongside four other alumni, as well as other talented coaches.

“Red Bank football has changed very little since I was a player here. The expectations have been kept intact throughout the years by the coaches that have been at the helm,” says Gatewood. “My head coach, Coach Weathers, established our program as one that is fundamentally sound on defense and always comes to compete, and I think we’ve continued that.”

To prepare his players to show up week after week, Gatewood has a holistic approach focusing on both the individual and the team rather than one or the other. “I think what I love most about coaching is having the opportunity to see the development and progress each individual is able to make while working to achieve a larger, common goal,” says Gatewood.

A sense of teamwork is one of the most important life lessons football has to offer, but he notes that his players are able to glean so much more from their Red Bank experience. Being a part of a larger team also teaches players how to control emotions, set goals, address adversity, and build relationships – something Gatewood is now experiencing the benefits of firsthand.

“Being at Red Bank and living in the community has been such a blessing,” he says. “Having grown up here and knowing the pride that former players and coaches have instilled in the school, the program, and the community adds extra incentive in preparing our team each year.”

While the players are hard at work preparing for the upcoming season, Gatewood too is doing a little introspection.

“As a coach, I feel that I need to do a better job of valuing the moments we have to make positive impacts on the young lives that we are entrusted with. We need to emphasize the small successes,” he says. “My hope has always been that players understand that I care about them as human beings and that their experiences are going to help them develop in their life journey.”

Class of 1983

DEDRIC MAFFETT THE HOWARD SCHOOL

Dedric Maffett will be the first to tell you the game of football looks a lot different than it once did. A tight end, linebacker, and kicker for the Howard Hustlin’ Tigers in the early 90s, Maffett says that technology has had an impact on football programs across the nation – both good and bad.

“Technology has been helpful for the game but a hurtful challenge to participation. It has assisted with being recruited and how teams exchange film,” he says. “On the other hand, the transfer portal has made it difficult to acquire athletic scholarships, and kids have so many competing priorities.”

One thing that hasn’t changed however is the goal to teach students skills that go beyond the field and can be used to overcome other adversities in life.

“When I was in school coaches were loyal to the sport, players, and school. They coached and mentored, while focusing on teaching both life and football skills,” says Maffett. “We actually do the same and concentrate on developing kids on the field while preparing them for life. Our desire is for our kids to be college graduates, great husbands, fathers, and productive citizens in our community.”

It is Maffett’s hope that not only will his players give back to the community long after they’ve graduated, but he also hopes that the community will continue to show up and support his players as they take to the field every Friday night.

“When you coach high schoolers you have to remember that they are still kids that can make some poor decisions. Still, they deserve to have support and reassurance that they will be encouraged and loved no matter if they win or lose,” adds Maffett. “I would like to see more people in the stands at our games. These kids could be doing anything else, but they have chosen to represent The Howard School.”

Looking back on his favorite moment from being head coach, Maffett really enjoys watching his players reach their full potential. Earlier this year, three Howard players received scholarships, and Maffett hopes for that to become a regular occurrence.

“Coaching here means a lot to me! I want to be an advocate for my players and students when they do not have a voice,” says Maffett. “I hope my players leave the program thinking that I was firm but fair and knowing they could trust and depend on me for anything. Ultimately, I hope they know that I cared about their future … and remember the funny things I said.”

9th Grade Class of 1995

The Deciding Factor The Deciding Factor

THE CHATTANOOGA AREA IS CHOCK FULL OF INCREDIBLY TALENTED ATHLETES SOUGHT AFTER BY SCHOOLS FROM COAST TO COAST. ON TOP OF AN INTENSE PRACTICE SCHEDULE, GAMES, HOMEWORK, AND AFTER-SCHOOL JOBS, MANY OF THESE PLAYERS ARE FIELDING CALLS FROM COACHES AND RECRUITERS DAY AND NIGHT AND JUGGLING SCHOLARSHIP OFFERS FROM AS MANY AS 30 SCHOOLS AT A TIME. READ ON TO FIND OUT HOW THESE EIGHT LOCAL PLAYERS MADE ONE OF THE BIGGEST DECISIONS OF THEIR SPORTS CAREERS.

BRYCEN SANDERS

BAYLOR SCHOOL, 2023

29 COLLEGE OFFERS

SIGNED WITH OLE MISS

WHAT WAS THE RECRUITING PROCESS LIKE?

It was pretty hard at first, but to have all of those offers and to build relationships with all of those high-caliber coaches was a blessing.

MOST EXCITING THING THAT HAPPENED DURING RECRUITING?

I would say getting to travel to different colleges and meet different coaches and players was the most exciting.

MOST SURPRISING OR DIFFICULT THING THAT HAPPENED DURING RECRUITING?

The most difficult thing was having to text and call so many different coaches, especially towards the end of the process, because it was so time-consuming.

WHAT WERE THE DIFFERENT FACTORS YOU CONSIDERED WHEN CHOOSING BETWEEN OFFERS?

The main factors were the relationships I had with the coaches, how I felt on campus and in the cities the schools were in, and how the depth chart played out when I got to the school.

HOW DID YOU CHOOSE WHICH SCHOOLS TO VISIT? DID THE VISIT HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON YOUR DECISION?

I visited many schools unofficially, but I only took three official visits. I chose Ole Miss, Tennessee, and Oklahoma to officially visit because I had good relationships with those three coaches.

ABOUT HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO MAKE THE BIG DECISION?

My family really helped me make the decision. After I took my last official visit, I took about a week to think about everything, then I committed. It was about a year and a half from the time I got my first offer to when I committed. It was a relief to finally sign and get ready for college.

WHAT WAS THE FACTOR THAT EVENTUALLY MADE YOU CHOOSE ONE OFFER OVER OTHERS?

I felt the most comfortable at Ole Miss over the other schools.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER PLAYERS GOING THROUGH THE RECRUITING PROCESS?

Enjoy the process because it is a blessing a lot of people wish they had.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRYCEN SANDERS

BJ RAGLAND

RED BANK HIGH SCHOOL, 2021

30+ COLLEGE OFFERS

SIGNED WITH CHARLOTTE

WHAT WAS THE RECRUITING PROCESS LIKE?

The recruiting process was like the first step into business life. Answering phone calls and talking about the future felt pretty professional in my opinion.

MOST EXCITING THING THAT HAPPENED DURING RECRUITING?

Being on the phone and getting told I earned a scholarship offer, knowing that all of my hard work and everything I’d been working for was seen by other coaches, and they noticed my potential. Another exciting part was talking about the football facilities and campus life – being a part of the Covid class meant I didn’t get to take many visits, so Zoom and photos were the only ways they could show me the school.

WHAT WERE THE DIFFERENT FACTORS YOU CONSIDERED WHEN CHOOSING BETWEEN OFFERS?

Things like where I’d be staying, academic assistance, and how far I would be from home all played a part in where I felt I should go. I wanted to pick a city that wasn’t lame, so my choices were places I felt would be fun with a little free time.

WHO HELPED YOU MAKE THE DECISION?

My mom helped me make a decision by narrowing down the places she wouldn’t drive to for games, so it made it easier knocking off those cross-country schools. What the school provided was the main thing my mom looked into when helping me decide; academics and nutrition were her biggest concerns.

WHAT WAS THE FACTOR THAT EVENTUALLY MADE YOU CHOOSE ONE OFFER OVER OTHERS?

With the city of Charlotte being up-and-coming and steady grind, I feel that this is a good place to start my life if football isn’t my last route.

LOOKING BACK, WAS THERE ANYTHING THAT WOULD HAVE MADE IT EASIER FOR YOU OR A CRITERIA YOU DIDN’T REALIZE YOU SHOULD HAVE LOOKED FOR?

Committing to a coach would be something that I would‘ve changed. Coaching staffs change season to season, so going to the school just for the position coach or coordinator probably isn’t the best decision.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER PLAYERS GOING THROUGH THE RECRUITING PROCESS?

Don’t let anybody pressure you into your decision – it’s your next four to five years. The biggest school ain’t always the best.

KYRIC MCGOWAN

DALTON HIGH SCHOOL, 2017

24 COLLEGE OFFERS

SIGNED WITH NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY, GRADUATE TRANSFER TO GEORGIA TECH

WHAT WAS THE RECRUITING PROCESS LIKE?

The recruiting process was very exciting. It was filled with many highs and not any lows, only times of uncertainty. It made getting up early for workouts and trying my best at school easy, knowing I was going to be visited or called by coaches from all the schools I watched growing up.

WHO HELPED YOU MAKE THE DECISION?

My parents were the biggest help in the recruiting process. They went above and beyond helping me reach out to schools, preparing me to talk to coaches, and investing their time and money getting me to different campuses. My coaches were also a big help in giving me feedback that they received from college scouts.

ABOUT HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO MAKE THE BIG DECISION?

I spent about two months visiting schools and narrowing down my options before I made my decision. It felt like a dream come true to commit and sign. It also took a lot of weight off my shoulders as I was able to play my senior season without having to worry about a college decision.

WHAT WAS THE FACTOR THAT EVENTUALLY MADE YOU CHOOSE ONE OFFER OVER OTHERS?

The overall deciding factor for me was teammates. It was about the culture and standard set by the players already there at the school and how my personal goals and standards would align with the team.

IF YOU TRANSFERRED TO A DIFFERENT SCHOOL DURING YOUR CAREER, WAS THE PROCESS ANY DIFFERENT?

The process did differ in what factors I considered into my decision. With a degree and 40+ games under my belt, I felt like the pressure was more on the schools to show that they wanted me instead of me feeling constant pressure like I did in high school.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER PLAYERS GOING THROUGH THE RECRUITING PROCESS?

My advice is to enjoy it to the fullest because you probably won’t get that royalty treatment or feeling again. Also, listen to all schools and coaches that show genuine interest in you. You never know where programs or coaches will be down the road, so you want to build as many connections as possible during the process.

JAHMYR GIBBS

DALTON HIGH SCHOOL, 2020

26 COLLEGE OFFERS

SIGNED WITH GEORGIA TECH, TRANSFERRED TO THE UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA

WHAT WAS THE RECRUITING PROCESS LIKE?

It was fun but also a little stressful.

MOST EXCITING THING THAT HAPPENED DURING RECRUITING?

I really liked traveling around to all the different schools.

WHAT WERE THE DIFFERENT FACTORS YOU CONSIDERED WHEN CHOOSING BETWEEN OFFERS?

There’s a lot to consider including the coaching staff, location of the school, the environment, and the other players.

WHO HELPED YOU MAKE THE DECISION?

My parents.

DID ANY OF YOUR COACHES HAVE A PARTICULAR WORD OF ADVICE THAT STUCK WITH YOU?

My high school coach, Matt Land, talked with me a few times and gave me some good advice. But it’s hard to narrow it down to just one conversation that stuck out.

ABOUT HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO MAKE THE BIG DECISION?

It took a couple of months, but once I made a decision and officially committed, it felt good!

WHAT WAS THE FACTOR THAT EVENTUALLY MADE YOU CHOOSE ONE OFFER OVER OTHERS?

For me, it wasn’t any one thing. It was mostly the overall vibe that I got.

IF YOU TRANSFERRED TO A DIFFERENT SCHOOL DURING YOUR CAREER, WAS THE PROCESS ANY DIFFERENT?

It felt pretty similar to high school recruitment and involved several phone calls and visits.

LOOKING BACK, WAS THERE ANYTHING THAT WOULD HAVE MADE IT EASIER FOR YOU OR A CRITERIA YOU DIDN’T REALIZE YOU SHOULD HAVE LOOKED FOR?

Not really. I kept things pretty simple, which made it a lot easier.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER PLAYERS GOING THROUGH THE RECRUITING PROCESS?

Just pick the school the feels right for you.

PHOTO BY DOUG SMITH PHOTO COURTESY OF THIS IS ESM

DEANGELO HARDY MCCALLIE SCHOOL, 2020 30 COLLEGE OFFERS

SIGNED WITH KENNESAW STATE

WHAT WAS THE RECRUITING PROCESS LIKE?

The recruiting process was very fun while also being very challenging. I was labeled as an athlete, so therefore I had to essentially decide what I thought was best for me at the time, position-wise.

MOST EXCITING THING THAT HAPPENED DURING RECRUITING?

Honestly just seeing that my talent and hard work didn’t go unnoticed.

MOST SURPRISING OR DIFFICULT THING THAT HAPPENED DURING RECRUITING?

Just getting so much attention was a surprise for me; there were so many surreal moments.

WHAT WERE THE DIFFERENT FACTORS YOU CONSIDERED WHEN CHOOSING BETWEEN OFFERS?

Location, program nature, and ultimately the relationships I built. I wanted to ensure I was going to be developed as a man the same as a player on the field

HOW DID YOU CHOOSE WHICH SCHOOLS TO VISIT? DID THE VISIT HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON YOUR DECISION?

The relationships I built with the coaches helped. My visit down to Kennesaw definitely surprised me and ultimately helped me decide.

WHO HELPED YOU MAKE THE DECISION?

Honestly my family was very open and allowed me to make my own decision.

DID ANY OF YOUR COACHES HAVE A PARTICULAR WORD OF ADVICE THAT STUCK WITH YOU?

I remember one day Coach Potter pulled me into his office and just voiced his encouragement and belief in me as both a person and player on the field. That belief gave me the last little thing that I didn’t realize I needed going into my senior season.

ABOUT HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO MAKE THE BIG DECISION?

I believe I committed during the summer leading up to my senior season, so ultimately around two years.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER PLAYERS GOING THROUGH THE RECRUITING PROCESS?

Just believe in yourself and go somewhere that will help uplift you both on and off the field. You’re young coming in, you want to be a good young man coming out!

KAREEM ORR

NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL, 2015 27 COLLEGE OFFERS

SIGNED WITH ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY, TRANSFERRED TO UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE AT CHATTANOOGA

WHAT WAS THE RECRUITING PROCESS LIKE?

I thought the process was very fun and exciting. I enjoyed getting calls constantly from position coaches or head coaches. Going on the visits was even better because they treat you like royalty while you’re on campus.

WHAT WERE THE DIFFERENT FACTORS YOU CONSIDERED WHEN CHOOSING BETWEEN OFFERS?

I was mainly choosing between Arizona State and Ohio State. Out of all factors, I would say the one that mattered to me most was if I could make an immediate impact on the team. I was also looking to make my stat line very noticeable to the NFL since that’s my dream.

WHO HELPED YOU MAKE THE DECISION?

Honestly, I did it all on my own because I didn’t want anyone to be able to control my decision on where I wanted to go to school.

ABOUT HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO MAKE THE BIG DECISION?

It took me all the way up until signing day to make the decision. I had a lot of really big offers, so I wanted to make sure the decision was right. Plus, I had also committed early my junior year to Louisville, but I regretted it months afterward when more Power Five schools started to give me offers.

WHAT WAS THE FACTOR THAT EVENTUALLY MADE YOU CHOOSE ONE OFFER OVER OTHERS?

Arizona State is in the Pac-12, and it’s a heavy pass league. This was a huge reason why I chose the school. A heavy pass league for me meant more opportunities to get interceptions and pass breakups, and I was able to end my career with 12 interceptions coming out of college. With the NFL being a production-based league, I thought that would be the best move for me.

IF YOU TRANSFERRED TO A DIFFERENT SCHOOL DURING YOUR CAREER, WAS THE PROCESS ANY DIFFERENT?

I did transfer to UTC after my sophomore year, but the process was familiar. I came back home to be a father to my beautiful daughter.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER PLAYERS GOING THROUGH THE RECRUITING PROCESS?

Make the decision that will put you in a position to fulfill your dreams like I was able to do.

JAVIN BURKE

BRADLEY CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL, 2021

25 COLLEGE OFFERS

SIGNED WITH UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA, CURRENTLY IN TRANSFER PORTAL

WHAT WAS THE RECRUITING PROCESS LIKE?

My recruiting process didn’t fully start until the end of my junior year. For a while it was nothing, and then an offer from Tennessee sparked a waterfall. It can be too much at times, but in the end it wasn’t that bad.

MOST EXCITING THING THAT HAPPENED DURING RECRUITING?

Going on my UVA visit probably was the most exciting thing that happened. Covid had just blown up right when my recruiting started, so by the time I had enough interest to go on visits, I wasn’t able to.

MOST SURPRISING OR DIFFICULT THING THAT HAPPENED DURING RECRUITING?

The entire thing is surprising and difficult because it’s something you’ve dreamed of your whole life and for it to finally happen (especially kind of late for me) is surprising. It is just as difficult because when it comes to decision time, there are many different opinions being thrown at you from different coaches and from the schools themselves.

WHAT WERE THE DIFFERENT FACTORS YOU CONSIDERED WHEN CHOOSING BETWEEN OFFERS?

Every school was pretty much even for me whether it was FCS or Division I. The biggest factor was what felt the most like home.

HOW DID YOU CHOOSE WHICH SCHOOLS TO VISIT? DID THE VISIT HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON YOUR DECISION?

The most impactful visit was UVA because of how open they were and how the coaching staff treated me and talked to me while I was there.

WHO HELPED YOU MAKE THE DECISION?

My parents helped me and made sure to ask all the questions about who could provide certain things education-wise that others couldn’t.

WHAT WAS THE FACTOR THAT EVENTUALLY MADE YOU CHOOSE ONE OFFER OVER OTHERS?

I loved the UVA coaching staff and how they seriously cared about you as a man off the field more than on the field.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR OTHER PLAYERS GOING THROUGH THE RECRUITING PROCESS?

I would just say take your time and view all of your options. Don’t just go to a school because it’s been your favorite team your whole life – go somewhere you will enjoy life both on and off the field.

KARSON GAY

BOYD-BUCHANAN SCHOOL, 2022 20 COLLEGE OFFERS

SIGNED WITH UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA

WHAT WAS THE RECRUITING PROCESS LIKE?

It was hectic, exciting, and nerve-wracking all at once. With it being during Covid and having so many weird but great things happening at the same time, it was a lot to take in.

MOST EXCITING THING THAT HAPPENED DURING RECRUITING?

It had to either be getting to see my family’s reaction to me getting certain offers or going on my official visit to UVA.

MOST SURPRISING OR DIFFICULT THING THAT HAPPENED DURING RECRUITING?

The most surprising thing was how I got somewhat tired of the recruiting process. It was one of the coolest things to ever happen to me, but it was a lot to process. Doing interviews and having phone calls with important people who you’ve seen on TV growing up causes a lot of nerves, and when that goes on for a year and a half, it can just get monotonous.

WHAT WERE THE DIFFERENT FACTORS YOU CONSIDERED WHEN CHOOSING BETWEEN OFFERS?

The biggest thing for me was having success after football and going somewhere that I will leave with great connections and a degree with real weight behind it. I want to play in the NFL but having a good backup plan is huge, and UVA is the perfect place for me to be in order to set myself up to achieve that.

DID ANY OF YOUR COACHES HAVE A PARTICULAR WORD OF ADVICE THAT STUCK WITH YOU?

The overall message from my coaches was big. They talked a lot about how you could get playing time and be a leader at any age on the team if you put in the work. By working hard before I got to campus and when I was on the grounds as well, I was able to make that transition throughout the season and earn playing time as a true freshman.

ABOUT HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO MAKE THE BIG DECISION?

It took me about a year and a half through my whole recruiting process to commit. When I finally did sign, it was a big sigh of relief, and it felt like a weight was lifted off my shoulders. It was nice to know that I had a home after high school.

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MVP MOMS

Moms are often their kids’ biggest cheerleaders, and that is certainly true for many of Chattanooga’s football teams. These women go above and beyond to take care of their families and support their kids’ teams in a thousand ways. They handle everything from rides to practice and pep talks after a loss to homework help and pre-game meals, and yet you can find them in the stands on game night with cowbell in hand. Read on for more about how these local MVP moms support their favorite football players.

BY CHELSEA RISLEY

Mandy Bailey remembers dropping her son, Noah, off at his first football practice, saying “It seems like yesterday; I blinked, and now he is in his senior season.” He’s played every year since fifth grade, which means Mandy has seen a lot of wins and losses. “I always tell my son, no matter win or lose, as long as you played as a team and did your best, that’s what matters most.”

Between conditioning and the last game of the season, football is eight months of the year where the players get to form a brotherhood, create memories, and make lifelong friends. “Knowing that my son has had this opportunity throughout his school career makes me incredibly thankful for this football program,” Mandy explains. She shares that she loves watching the team cheering each other on and giving each other advice during games. She also enjoys the anticipatory atmosphere of the first home game of the season. “The band lines the field and plays the Trojan fight song as the team walks down through the stadium,” says Mandy.

“The color guard waves their flags, the stands cheer, the team runs onto the field, and you can feel the excitement and school spirit.”

Mandy teaches at Soddy Daisy Middle School, so on game days, she meets the other football moms who volunteer to help her set up the pre-game meals sponsored by local businesses, and the players’ families come together to provide desserts and drinks for this “joyous time where the team gets to have fellowship before the game,” she explains. Many folks don’t know how much behindthe-scenes work it takes to make sure the football season goes off without a hitch – while the team is training hard in the off-season so are the volunteers, who frequently meet and plan for what the team will need and how to pull it all together.

She and her husband, Charley, both Soddy Daisy graduates themselves, are ready to jump in wherever the football program needs volunteers, from the press box to painting the field to selling programs to coordinating parents and providing pre-game and post-practice meals. “Working together with other families, coaches, and the rest of the team is what motivates me to continue volunteering. Knowing that the team is being supported by families and the community and being a part of it with my son are memories I will always have,” she shares.

PHOTO BY KRIS HACKER/HACKER MEDIAS

SIGNAL MOUNTAIN MIDDLE-HIGH SCHOOL

KAYSE RIGSBY

BLAKE WOLFARD, SENIOR

Kayse Rigsby’s son, Blake, began playing flag football at age five, but “he wanted to know when he was going to be able to tackle somebody,” she laughs. He went on to play football, basketball, and baseball at Signal Mountain Middle-High School (SMMHS) where he’s currently in his senior year. His older brother, Braeden, also played football at SMMHS during his freshman year, so Kayse has spent a lot of time on the field and with the team. She loves watching her kids play, but she also loves the games themselves, especially “the sounds that come along with Friday night lights: the band playing, cowbells ringing from the fans after a good play, the crunch of shoulder pads, the announcer saying ‘a flock of Eagles on the tackle,’” she explains. As a teacher at SMMHS, she has the flexibility to be present for many of the activities on home game days. After helping set up the pre-game meal, she heads out to help other volunteers with stadium prep by wrapping hamburgers and hot dogs for the concession stand. Once the game is over, students and parents help with field and concession cleanup. Kayse is also an active member of the booster club and plans fundraisers and events as well as helps coordinate volunteers and organize recognition events like senior night to support the team. “I can’t imagine not showing up for the team because that would be like not showing up for my son. My motivation comes from knowing what I do – what all the volunteers do – helps make it possible for the program to be successful, which means the kids get to keep playing,” she says.

There are so many benefits for both the kids and parents. Kayse explains that she’s made incredible friendships with other parents that last beyond graduation, and the players benefit from encouragement from coaches and all the good that comes from learning to be a part of a team.

“Blake has learned about the importance of being a leader and mentor from older players – lessons that I hope he is now teaching younger players. I think these are lessons that will not be left on the field, but will be carried with him for the rest of his life,” she says. To a mom whose son has just started playing football, Kayse advises: “roll up your sleeves and get involved because the rewards of helping out by far outweigh the work itself.”

PHOTO BY KRIS HACKER/HACKER MEDIAS

J u LIE WHELAN d GA r RETT

CARTER GARRETT, SENIOR DAVIS GARRETT, JUNIOR

Though Julie Wheland Garrett was an athlete herself, she didn’t have brothers, so having two football players in the family, Carter and Davis, is a new experience for her. Julie has five kids who are all very active in sports, and she volunteers a lot, explaining, “The window of time you have with your children under your roof is so short that I want to look back knowing I soaked up every moment and every aspect of their lives that I possibly could.” In addition to volunteering with the other team parents whenever help is needed, providing Tigerthemed desserts for tailgating families, and feeding a cadre of players that regularly frequents her home, the Garrett family also hosts players in need of a place to board. Most recently they welcomed in a player from Oxford, Mississippi, who needed a place to stay during practice while the dorms were closed for the summer. “It’s always fun for us to get to meet new kids from all over and take them in as extended Garretts,” she shares. “I want all those boarders who may not have parents that can be on campus or in the stands every Friday night to know that there is someone there that cares for them and

One of the many wonderful aspects of the football program at Baylor is the community it creates, even beyond the players and their families. Game days are full of camaraderie and adrenaline. “There’s nothing like sitting in the stands on a crisp fall evening, red shaker in hand, surrounded by some of my closest friends and fellow Raider fans; all of us anxious to cheer on our boys to victory,” Julie says. Julie believes that being a part of the team has been beneficial to her sons’ sense of discipline, responsibility, and respect. She loves that they have the opportunity to create such strong relationships with their teammates and coaches and is grateful for the coaching staff’s dedication to their players. Some of her favorite memories from last season are the coaches’ speeches during the football banquet.

“Each coach had a story to tell about every player on the team, even those that never saw the field! They talked about what essential role each player had added to the overall makeup of the team,” she recalls. Though she truly enjoys football in general, Julie says “Watching a football game where you know practically every player and you celebrate each amazing play or tackle as if it were your own

BOYD-BUCHANAN SCHOOL

MA rY N u NEZ

CALEB NUNEZ, JUNIOR

Having been a part of Boyd-Buchanan’s football program since her son, Caleb, began playing in elementary school, Mary Nunez has had many cherished memories of the team, but one of her favorites is watching an early morning walkthrough. “One morning after dropping Caleb off, I walked up to the field. It was dark, foggy, and all you could see were 80 of the best of friends and coaches on the barely lit field. It was pretty magical, like something out of a movie,” she shares. Mary believes that the benefits and life lessons Caleb has learned from being a part of the program will stay with him throughout his life, things like “discipline, knowledge, working as a team, and learning to push through the

Mary always dreamed of being a part of her kids’ sports, so she is very involved behind the scenes with the team. “Every opportunity that arises, I’m there, and I never say no,” she laughs. She’s grateful to the coaching and athletic department staff for allowing her to be a part of supporting the team. Mary helps coordinate and communicate with all the team parents, and along with the other team moms, provides pre-game meals, Thursday morning breakfasts, and special treats at the end of the week. She’s a huge support during football camps and events like the end of the year banquets and has a hand in a lot of meaningful details like event decorations, framing the senior players’ jerseys, and coordinating the players to thank the coaches for their hard work throughout the year. Mary acknowledges how many folks it takes to meet the team’s needs, saying, “Behind the scenes is a lot of work! I’m so thankful for the team of

On game days, Mary can be found helping with transportation and food preparation, and then during the game, she’s in the concessions stand or cheering her heart out in the stands. She loves everything about having a football player in the family because of the community it creates. “I love watching Caleb learn, grow, and develop into the young man he’s becoming. For us, it’s also about the families – you will hear us cheering for our player, but you will also hear us cheering for every single one of the players. It’s really special. Our family grows each year by about 80+, and we

PHOTO BY KRIS HACKER/HACKER

For Shirley Baugh, tradition and love for the Boyd-Buchanan football team and cheer squad has motivated her to show up in the stands for 34 years and counting. The Baugh family celebrated when her son, Jeff, made the team in 1989, and Shirley still has fond memories of his time playing. One of her favorite moments is from a game at Sewanee during his senior season when he intercepted a pass and ran toward the goal before getting taken down just short of it. “Someone got a photo of him running that ball. I’ll never forget it,” she shares.

When Jeff and his wife Amanda became parents, they continued the Boyd-Buchanan tradition, and their daughter, Aubrey, is now a senior cheerleading captain. Because of her involvement, Jeff volun teered to take on the responsibility of driving the Bucs trailer with all of the football team equipment for away games. Game days are a Baugh family affair, with Aubrey and Amanda (a cheerleading coach) riding the bus, Jeff driving the trailer, Shirley and her husband, Tom, along with him. “I person ally love traveling with the team on away games. Unpacking the trailer and gathering equipment sets the stage for the upcoming game,” Shirley explains. She also loves the home games for their community atmosphere and arrives early to visit before the game begins, since she and Tom have “known many of these people since we were all parents, and now their sons and daughters have brought their children to Boyd-Buchanan as well.”

In addition to faithfully cheering from the stands, Shirley is a huge support to the team in other ways. She participates in the “Parents praying for players” group each year, chairs the Grandparent Campaign for the Buccaneer Fund, and helps with other fundraisers for the athletics department, as well as often providing pre- or post-game meals for both the football players and cheerleaders. She also gifts each player a handmade towel with his number on it to wear on his belt in addition to making flags for not only the football team, but also the cheerlead ing squad and lacrosse and soccer teams. Gracious acts of kindness like these resulted in Shirley receiving the ‘Heart of a Buc’ award for volunteer excellence in 2021, and the tradition has grown with a new deserving individual receiv ing the award each year. Shirley is quick to say that she is “just one of many who represent all the hard working moms and dads behind the scenes over the years.” She sums up her love and support for the school by saying “BBS has kept us all connected, invested in the future, and involved. It is a rare and special place that we love. Go Bucs!”

BOYD-BUCHANAN SCHOOL

SHI r LEY BAu GH

JEFF BAUGH, CLASS OF 1996 AUBREY BAUGH, SENIOR

PHOTO BY KRIS HACKER/HACKER MEDIAS

LOOKOUT VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

JENNIFE r CHAN d LER

CHRISTIAN CHANDLER, SENIOR

With a son, Christian, currently playing football and baseball, a daughter who plays volleyball, and a son who played football before graduating, Jennifer Chandler is no stranger to the sports world. In addition to showing up to every game she can manage, she also serves as the treasurer for Lookout Valley’s booster club. She’s such a fixture in the athletic department that head football and baseball coach Joshua Payne even goes so far as to say he would consider her both teams’ general manager.

Much of her time volunteering for the football and baseball teams is spent doing things like planning and executing fundraisers for the booster club; networking with local businesses to secure support and donations for the team; ordering equipment and apparel for coaches and players; and planning meals for the team’s home and away games with the other players’ moms. “I will always support our community, school, and sports. The players and coaches work hard every day and deserve all the support we can provide,” she says. On game days, you can find her stocking the concession stand in preparation for the crowd, popping by the pep rallies, and then prepping a tailgating celebration before kickoff. She makes sure to acknowledge the other members of her family – her husband, daughter, and mom – for supporting her and helping her get things done.

Though it keeps her busy, Jennifer loves being a part of the team. Her favorite moment of a game is watching the team charge through the signs and out onto the field, and she was thrilled to see one of the graduating seniors pass the Spirit Stick to Christian during the final pep rally of last season. Both Jennifer and Christian have developed long-lasting friendships through their many years in the program – “Christian has gained extra ‘parents’ as well,” she says. She also shares that one of the biggest benefits of being a part of the program is “getting to watch the memories gained by our players and see the smiles on their faces.” She enjoys watching Christian play under the Friday night lights and seeing him develop relationships with players and coaches. When asked what advice she would give to a mom whose son has just started playing football, Jennifer reiterates how much she’s enjoyed it, saying, “Volunteer anytime you can; it will bring you joy just to see the excitement from the players and coaches.”

PHOTO BY TREVOR LONG

MCCALLIE SCHOOL

TAMMY HO u STON LAW r ENCE

CARSON LAWRENCE, JUNIOR

Tammy Houston Lawrence explains that football has always been a part of her family’s routine. Everyone gathers together to cheer on multiple teams on Saturdays and Sundays, and now they’ve added Friday night lights to the schedule to support Carson. Her younger son, Tyler, also plays for McCallie’s middle school team, and her daughter, Aaidyn, plays softball and basketball for Girls Preparatory School. “I love watching my children live out their passions and show off their hard work while competing. I am further inspired when the team shows camaraderie for their fellow teammates,” she shares.

One of Tammy’s favorite memories of football at McCallie was the team’s journey to the state championship in 2021 during Carson’s freshman year. The game was actually played on his birthday, and she was thrilled to experience such an exciting game alongside him and the great group of older players that paved the way for the team’s success in future seasons. This idea of building on a moment is something Tammy reminds Carson of when the team experiences a tough loss, saying, “Loss is not a defining moment, but a place to build upon with the next opportunity. Remain steadfast and diligent in the goals set, knowing that the time will come with hard work, dedication, and preparation.”

During a game, Tammy can be found cheering in the stands between the 40- and 50-yard line, but she also supports the team in other ways, including volunteering at the concessions stand with setup and prep. She appreciates the opportunity to help wherever she can and loves being an active contributor to the kids’ teams and schools, she says.

With three multi-sport athletes in the house, Tammy is a seasoned pro at juggling very full schedules with the help of a detailed shared family calendar. “I rely on a vast network of friends and family to operate as my village to support me,” she adds.

Despite the hectic schedule, Tammy recognizes that there are a lot of benefits to being part of the football program, including the relationships players build. “The friends he’s made from football have transformed into a brother bond and created an extended family atmosphere,” she says. To a fellow mom new to football who may be a bit uncertain about it, Tammy offers this advice: “Football requires dedication and discipline. It is a demanding sport with safety risks, though the reward I’ve found is greater than the risk. I’ve learned to accept what comes with football for Carson. Watching his discipline, dedication, work ethic, and consistent performance, I know his love and passion

PHOTO BY TREVOR LONG

30 YEARS

CHATTANOOGA’S STATE CHAMPIONS

Ever since Tennessee switched to a playoff system to determine championships in 1969, the strongest teams in our state have battled it out year after year to see who would come out on top. Since the 90s, nine Chattanoogaarea schools have brought a grand total of 22 championship trophies home to the Scenic City. Read on to learn more about these title-holding teams and how they became the top dogs of their seasons.

BY CATHERINE SMITH

Marion County High School

In November of 1989, Marion County went all the way to the quarterfinals before a 30-20 loss came at the hands of Alcoa to knock them out of the bracket. But after narrowly missing their shot at a championship title, the Warriors came back strong in 1990 with head coach Ken Colquette in command. The team became a true powerhouse over the next seven years, going 70-7 and pocketing four state championship trophies along the way.

In 1990, the Warriors fought their way back to the playoffs with a total of 12 wins and just three losses in the season. In the final matchup against Memphis University School, Marion snagged their first championship title with a punishing final score of 26-7. With this win, they became the first runner-up in Tennessee history to return and win a championship the next year, but that was just the beginning.

Marion County came back for more in the 1992 playoffs after an undefeated season, and their final game was arguably one of the most exciting championship games in Tennessee history. With just under four minutes on the clock, defending champions Brentwood Academy were set to win at 20-14 when Marion quarterback Scott Stephens made a 39-yard touchdown pass to Guy Hansard and brought the score to a nail-biting 20-20. Hansard then made a stunning interception and returned 33 yards for the game-winning touchdown.

In 1994, the Warriors secured their third state title in five seasons with a 43-14 win against Portland with Eric Westmoreland leading their offense, taking 15 carries for 151 yards and securing four touchdowns. The following year, Westmoreland kept that momentum going as the Warriors pummeled Humbolt for a 28-7 win. Marion County took home another championship and Westmoreland was named both the Offensive MVP of the championship game and 1995’s Class 3A Mr. Football for his efforts.

(TOP) 1990 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM; (RIGHT) ERIC WESTMORELAND

High School

The Cleveland Blue Raiders were undeniably a force to be reckoned with in the early 90s. Under the leadership of head coach Benny Monroe, the 1993 team boasted a top-tier offense and an undefeated season that started with a 70-0 blowout against Hixson. Cleveland breezed their way through the playoffs that year, but their luck almost ran out when they met Brentwood Academy on the field for the title game. With less than a minute on the clock, the Blue Raiders narrowly secured their 26-21 victory with a 17-yard touchdown pass.

Cleveland’s 1994 team continued this trend, tacking on a second undefeated season to Monroe’s repertoire. Led by All-State running back Dante Hickey, the Blue Raiders continued to wreak havoc on the scoreboards, winning a total of 523 points and only giving up 151 throughout the season.

Though they had every right to be confident, the defending champions maintained razor-sharp focus as they sailed into the finals to contend with Haywood – a powerful team in their own right with just a single loss in their regular season. With neither team willing to budge, Cleveland’s first touchdown finally came in the 3rd quarter with an 11-yard run, and the PAT narrowly secured their 7-6 victory. Not content to ride the coattails of two consecutive winning seasons, the 1995 team continued this momentum and added yet another state championship trophy to the hallowed halls of Raider Drive at the end of their own undefeated season. This winning streak lasted another year, rounding out 54 consecutive games across nearly four seasons before finally coming to an end in November of 1996. At the time, this was the longest winning streak a school in Tennessee had ever seen, and the Blue Raiders certainly earned their spot in high school football history.

(TOP, BOTTOM LEFT, AND BOTTOM RIGHT) 1993 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM

South Pittsburg High School

1994, 1999, 2007, 2010, 2021

South Pittsburg won their first title in 1969 in Tennessee’s first-ever state championship playoff. After that, Pirates fans had to wait 25 years to see the team bring home another championship, which came with a 14-7 win against Lake County under head coach Danny Wilson and with the help of linebacker coach Vic Grider, who would later take over as head coach.

With Grider at the helm, the Pirates sailed into the 1999 playoffs as a wellrounded team with both offensive and defensive prowess. The team went undefeated in the regular season, scoring an average of 40 points per game and only giving up an average of 12. Keeping with that trend, they beat Moore County 42-13 in the title game. In 2007, another undefeated season started with a 49-17 win against Marion County and ended with

a championship win over McKenzie, during which running back Robert Robinson snagged an Offensive MVP honor with a strong performance – over 200 yards and four touchdowns.

After narrowly missing the title with a runner-up finish in 2009, the Pirates fought their way back to the playoffs in 2010. Armed with a hungry offense and shielded by a resolute defense, the pirates shut down Jo Byrns in a 41-6 victory. As a result, the team’s seniors made off with 50 career wins and two championship titles to their names. In a 30-year career with his alma mater, Coach Grider won 81% of his games and garnered a record of 232-54, solidifying his status as a legendary Pirate before retiring at the end of the 2020 season.

Following a heartbreakingly close loss to Fayetteville in the final round of the 2020 playoffs, the Pirates came back in 2021 the same determination they’ve shown before. Wes Stone lead the team to a 24-21 victory over McKenzie in the playoffs in his first season as head coach. With this win, the Pirates added a seventh trophy to their haul.

(TOP AND BOTTOM LEFT) 1999 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM; (BOTTOM RIGHT) 2010 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM

Tyner Academy

Spurred on by a disappointing end to their previous season, the Rams were united by a fierce determination to go all the way in 1997. The 32-player team, headed up by coach Wayne Turner, was a close-knit group that enjoyed a sense of camaraderie in the locker room but worked together as a lethal unit on the field.

The first game of their 1997 season set the tone for the rest of the year with a stunning 95-3 victory over Boyd-Buchanan. As they pummeled their way through the regular season, the Rams racked up an average score of 45-8 and took just a single loss to Battle Ground Academy.

When Tyner met Union City on Vanderbilt’s Dudley Field for the title game, the matchup threatened to cut their dream short, but the Rams refused to concede. With just over a minute on the clock, Rory Hinton faithfully launched a 29-yard pass to Windarek Stewart in the end zone, narrowly avoiding an interception by Union City. With that, the pair of lifelong friends secured Tyner’s 13-10 win.

Twenty-five years later, head coach Scott Chandler led Tyner to their second championship win in the 2022 playoffs after going 14-1 in the regular season. The title game had Rams fans sweating as the 1st quarter ended with Riverside leading 15-0, but Tyner pressed on. Ramping up their offense, the Rams secured a 20-18 lead in the 3rd quarter when Josh Jackson and Trae Ruffin connected on a 21-yard touchdown pass.

As the game went on, the “Ram Train” held the line with stone-cold defensive plays. Defensive lineman Jamarion Varnell struck down a pass on 4th-and-4, a pivotal moment that stopped a promising Riverside possession. In the final seconds of the game, defensive backs Zashun Hubbard and Rayshaun Hinton denied Riverside’s two-point conversion, and Josiah Bridgeman caught a line drive at his feet to secure the 26-24 win.

(TOP) 1997 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM; (BOTTOM) 2022 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM

Red Bank High School 2000

The Red Bank Lions had a disappointing season in 1999, going 5-6 when all was said and done, but the frustration would prove beneficial. Their tough break ignited a fire beneath them that spurred the team to train harder in the off-season. The Lions turned it around at the turn of the century, and head coach Tom Weathers led them through a perfect 15-0 season which culminated in their first championship title.

The 2000 Lions snagged an average of 40 points per game with a strong offense headed by running back Gerald Riggs Jr., who was named Offensive MVP after carrying for 209 yards and scoring three touchdowns in the title

game. Riggs also secured the American General Mr. Football Back of the Year title for his efforts. At the end of the regular season, the Lions found themselves in the top 15 of ESPN’s national poll as they confidently made their way to the playoffs.

It had been 22 years since Red Bank had last made a promising bid in the playoffs – the program had a single runner-up finish in 1978. Nevertheless, the Lions charged into the 2000 playoffs with confidence, delivering an incredible performance that football fans throughout the state still remember over two decades later. After knocking out Oakland, Ooltewah, Bradley Central, and Dobyns Bennett, Red Bank met Riverdale on a snow-covered field for the final bid. In the end, the legendary strength of their offense carried them all the way, and the game ended in a decisive victory of 27-7 to Red Bank.

OUR PURPOSE IS TO HELP PEOPLE BECOME PAIN FREE!

What we strive for

Here at Summit, we want to be the premier PT company – We want to be the best – The best employer, the best provider of care, the best business partner, the neighbor in the community that we serve.

What we treat

If you suffer from:

• lower back pain

• knee pain/ACL injuries

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Physical therapy may be right for you!

HOW SUMMIT PHYSICAL THERAPY CAN PREVENT ACL INJURY!

By Kevin Kostka, Owner of Summit Physical Therapy

Physical therapy may be right for you!

Did you know that 1 in 100 high school athletes sustain a serious knee injury every year? A female, on average, is at a 5 times greater risk than male athletes to have a serious knee injury such as an ACL tear? Did you know that a majority of ACL injuries are non-contact related? Meaning that the injury occurs when landing from a jump, decelerating when getting a ball, or cutting during a change of direction in movement. Training with the right physical therapist can help decrease the risk of ACL injuries.

A change in mindset is now a preventative mindset for training. This preventative approach is also showing performance enhancement improvements for sport as well. So, the athletes are getting two for one- injury prevention training and performance training.

Not only is the jump program important but proper ratios of strength in the leg are important too. We often see quadriceps (quad) dominance in females. This is the muscle in the front of the leg. The lack of hamstring strength (the opposite muscle of the quad in the back of the leg) can lead to a muscle imbalance as well as injury. So, we like to add in hamstring strengthening exercises as well. Glute max exercises are also incorporated into our programs. The glute max is being linked to prevention of landing in a knock kneed or valgus position more than the glute med strength is.

So, if keeping your child off of the operating table, in the game and not on the side line this year, then a small investment in an injury prevention jump program like the one we have at Summit Physical Therapy may be right for you. This a minimal investment of time and money that may prove to be one factor that keeps your child in the game and preventyou from having unnecessary medical bills this next season.

If you think you are at risk for a serious knee or ACL injury, or have any other questions about how we can help your child, give us a call at 423-777-4974.

McCallie

School 2001, 2019, 2020, 2021

Under head coach Ralph Potter, McCallie took home their first state championship title in 2001. The game was hard-won, with McCallie narrowly securing a 17-16 victory over Brentwood Academy in the final moments of the game. Quarterback Ryan Moore completed a 21-yard pass to Haddon Kirk for a conversion, and Trey Meyer snagged a 22-yard, game-winning kick with just 11 seconds to go.

Eighteen years later, Potter brought a second championship title back to the

school with a 2019 victory over Montgomery Bell Academy. The first half of the game was largely a battle of the defenses, but McCallie managed to break through toward the end of the 1st quarter when cornerback Thompson Byrd intercepted a pass and ran 32 yards to score the first touchdown of the game. This changed the tides in McCallie’s favor, spurring them on to a final score of 28-7 and the first of three consecutive championship-winning seasons.

The Blue Tornado wasn't out of wind yet. In 2020, they finished 9-3 in the regular season before returning to the playoffs for the second year in a row. After fighting their way through the bracket, McCallie defended their title and delivered a crushing 44-0 defeat to Memphis University School. Aided by impressive plays from Eric Rivers, who threw for one touchdown and ran two more, and B.J. Harris’ 56-yard touchdown, the 2020 team gave one of the best performances in McCallie history.

Their winning streak continued into 2021 as McCallie won all 13 games in their regular season before bringing home their third consecutive title. In the final game, McCallie once again faced off against Montgomery Bell Academy, delivering a déjà-vu-inducing defeat of 28-7 and finishing their three-season championship-winning streak the same way it started.

(TOP) 2021 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM; (MIDDLE LEFT) 2020 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM; (MIDDLE RIGHT) 2019 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM; (BOTTOM) 2001 STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM

BoydBuchanan School

2003

In 2002, Boyd-Buchanan made it all the way to the title game of the playoffs for the first time in the program’s history, narrowly losing the title to Christ Presbyterian Academy with a final score of 26-20 in overtime. After that tough loss, the Bucs were hungrier than ever – determined to fight their way back to a second chance title run. Under the guidance of head coach Robert Akins, the 2003 team used the previous season’s loss as a springboard to come back stronger than before, capitalizing on what they learned from their first playoff experience.

Boyd-Buchanan’s strong offense made them a force to be reckoned with in the regular season, racking up an average of 38 points per game while giving up an average of 11. The Bucs went 12-2 that season, with their only losses coming at the hands of Baylor and Goodpasture. When it came to the playoffs, however, defense was the name of the game and they certainly held their own, giving up an average of under 10 points per game throughout the playoffs.

The difference was clear as the Bucs sailed through to the final round with impressive consistency in their performance – beating Clay County 47-6, Friendship Christian 49-20, South Pittsburg 20-7, and Christian Academy of Knoxville 37-6. In the title game, they faced off against Donelson Christian Academy with the same tenacity. Though they gave up an easy field goal after a fumble in their own territory in the first half, they made up for it in the second. As the game wore on, the Bucs gained 208 yards to the Wildcats’ 44, icing them out with an iron wall of defense that never let the opposing team’s offense cross the 50-yard line. Boyd-Buchanan finished the game with a 26-3 victory to bring home the trophy – the school’s first championship win since 1996 and the first ever for their football program.

The 2003 Bucs certainly earned their place in Boyd-Buchanan history, and their win is a fond memory to fans and alumni even two decades later. Members of the team are invited to attend a celebration of the 20th anniversary of their win this year during the school’s annual alumni weekend on Friday, September 29th.

(TOP) BOYD-BUCHANAN STATE CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM; (BOTTOM RIGHT) MATT HENLEY

Signal Mountain High School 2010

Signal Mountain’s 2010 team, under the leadership of head coach Bill Price, made history as one of the highest-scoring teams the Chattanooga area had ever seen. In the regular season, they kept a squeaky-clean 14-0 record, largely due to their powerful offense – the Eagles earned a total of 513 points in the season for a per-game average of 50.

That momentum carried them through the playoffs, and their offense continued to impress as the Eagles flew through the bracket, scoring a go-ahead touchdown with just 35 seconds on the clock to Friendship Christian in the second game. The team kept this energy to the final round with a 46-36 win over Trousdale County in the quarterfinals followed by a 51-12 win over Boyd-Buchanan in the semifinals.

The first half of the title game proved challenging for Signal Mountain as Trinity Christian Academy’s onslaught of powerful passes threatened to wear down their defense. Rather than losing focus, the Eagles stepped up to the challenge, their defense only getting stronger as the game went on. In signature Coach Price style, their offense wouldn’t be caught slacking either, racking up a record-setting 688 yards and putting 35 points on the board to pull ahead in the second half.

The first half’s difficulties were anything but discouraging for the 2010 team – their determination to win seemed to only get stronger with the start of each new quarter. In addition to breaking state records, the Eagles soared past their own limits as well; for the first time in the season, the team had two 100-yard rushers by the end of the game. Donnie Garner, who earned the game’s Offensive MVP title, went for 218 yards on 18 carries and scored three touchdowns, while Andrew Price logged 133 yards on eight carries. In the end, the Eagles came out on top and brought home the title with a 56-28 victory.

Marc Cromie, MD; Todd Levin, MD; Lee Perry, MD; Jennifer Patel, MD; Jessica Van Mason, MD; Hyman Kaplan, MD

Baylor School

Baylor won their first state championship title in 1973 when they beat Hillcrest 6-0, but fans would have to wait 49 long years to celebrate another title. Though Baylor did make several playoff appearances after that first win, their closest bids in 1977, 2010, and 2011 each ended in runner-up titles for the Red Raiders. After a dry spell of nearly 50 years, Baylor took home their second championship title in 2022 after a hard-fought battle against then-undefeated Montgomery Bell Academy.

Baylor won the toss and elected to receive, but a few errors in the 1st quarter allowed Montgomery Bell to quickly take a 7-0 lead. Baylor’s offense adapted quickly to make up the difference, with quarterback Whit Muschamp firing off a pass to connect with Louis Vincent for a 38-yard touchdown, but two more touchdown passes put Montgomery Bell up 21-7. Neither team was willing to concede as the game progressed; with all the back and forth, the teams combined gained nearly 600 yards in just the first half of the game. Baylor was down 18-14 come halftime, but it was still anyone’s game as they pressed on.

The tides changed quickly in the second half after the game’s first turnover gave Baylor a 46-yard pass that was run into the end zone for a 31-28 lead. Energized by this opportunity, Baylor tightened up their defense and let their offense loose, snagging another 45-yard touchdown run with just under seven minutes on the clock. Red Raider fans were on the edge of their seats as Montgomery Bell got one last scoring drive, but after their failed extra point locked in the final score of 38-34, Baylor was free to run out the clock and take home the crown.

Would You Rather? SportTalk Radio Edition

T here are many qualities that separate the good athletes from the great ones, and one of those qualities is decision-making. While they might not be grinding it out on the gridiron anymore, this year we thought we’d test SportTalk Radio’s Scott McMahen’s and Joe Varner’s decision-making prowess in a little game of Would You Rather. Read on to hear what they had to say.

Would you rather own the record for most points scored or most championships?

QUAKE: Since I never was a superstar, I’ve always been a team guy. Thinking with the team first always lifts everyone’s game. Championships for sure!

COWBOY JOE: Scoring the most points would be a cool record to have, but fans remember championships. Championships automatically put you in the G.O.A.T. conversation. I want to be known as the Greatest of All Time! Give me those championships!

Would you rather run fast or jump high?

QUAKE: I’ve never been able to run fast, so I would love to run so fast that nobody could catch me.

COWBOY JOE: I think it’s important to note that I hate running. That being said, I want to jump high. I’ve always wanted to dunk on a basketball goal that wasn’t adjustable. I would go to my local basketball court and dunk on everyone. No one would be safe!

Would you rather retire as a forgotten coach with a winning record or a famous coach known to lose championships?

QUAKE: The worst moniker in sports is a "choker," but I'd rather be close and lose than be average and forgotten.

COWBOY JOE: I hate to lose, but I would choose the famous coach known for losing championships. Marv Levy of the Buffalo Bills is the perfect example. Sure, he lost multiple championships, but he still made it to the championship game.

Would you rather have really cool uniforms with a run-down stadium or a state-of-the-art stadium with ugly uniforms?

QUAKE: Oh, if we have a state-ofthe-art stadium, we are having cool uniforms. They go hand in hand, but a stadium is so important for maximum fan experience.

COWBOY JOE: I want to look good! As the great Deion Sanders said, “If you look good, you play good. If you play good, they pay good!” Fans need to look good when wearing my jersey! We can take care of the stadium at a later date.

JOE VARNER (COWBOY JOE)

SCOTT MCMAHEN (QUAKE)

Would you rather play in 40-degree or 90-degree weather?

QUAKE: Football is always better in the cold. Preferably a little snow too.

COWBOY JOE: I love living in Tennessee! However, the humidity can be a bit much at times. You know what I’m talking about? You walk outside and are instantly drenched in sweat. Is that just me? Probably. Anyway, I would choose the 40-degree weather 10 out of 10 times. I’ll warm up when I start running around.

Would you rather be known as a coach who’s a great recruiter or a great strategist?

QUAKE: Recruiter means you can talk and communicate well, but the strategy of the game has always fascinated me so this one is tough... Probably strategist. I’ve never outsmarted anyone in my life.

COWBOY JOE: If we are talking about college football, I’d want to be a great recruiter. The talent difference can be more obvious at that level. If I’m a coach at the professional level, I’d want to be a great strategist. All the players are really good at that level, so having a coach with a great football mind makes all the difference.

Would you rather play but always lose or win but sit on the bench?

QUAKE: Play and lose? I’ve done all that so I’ll pick win and contribute off the bench.

COWBOY JOE: Losing is miserable. Winning is fun! Can I play half the games? When I play, we win. When I sit, we lose. No? I want to play, but I want to win even more. I’m sitting on the bench. Let’s get that trophy!

Would you rather join an experienced veteran team or a young, energetic team?

QUAKE: I want the team that’s hungry to win regardless of if they are veteran or young.

COWBOY JOE: Highly competitive sports are a young man’s game. Of course, I’d want some veterans to help lead the team, but I can be that leader. It might take a couple of years, but we will eventually have that veteran mentality with younger legs.

TOP COLLEGE PROSPECTS

BOO

CARTER, ATHLETE

Bradley Central, Class of 2024

Ht: 5’10” | Wt: 184

Offers: Alabama A&M, Arizona State, Arkansas, Auburn, Austin Peay, Bethune-Cookman, Central Michigan, Charlotte, Chattanooga, Cincinnati, Colorado, Eastern Kentucky, Florida, Florida A&M, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Illinois, Jackson State, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisville, LSU, Miami, Miami (OH), Michigan, Michigan State, Mississippi State, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio State, Ole Miss, Oregon, Penn State, Purdue, TCU, Tennessee, Toledo, Tulane, UNLV, USF, Utah, Vanderbilt, Virginia Tech, Washington, West Virginia, Western Kentucky, Wisconsin

Committed: Tennessee

MAX LEBLANC, TIGHT END

Baylor, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’3” | Wt: 222

Offers: Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Cincinnati, Coastal Carolina, Colorado, Duke, Florida State, Georgia Southern, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, Louisville, Miami, Michigan, Michigan State, Missouri, NC State, North Carolina, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Penn State, Purdue, South Carolina, Stanford, Tennessee, Tulane, UCF, UNLV, Vanderbilt, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Wisconsin

Committed: Ohio State

AMARI JEFFERSON, WIDE RECEIVER

Baylor, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’1” | Wt: 195

Offers: Alabama, Alabama A&M, Auburn, Austin Peay, Chattanooga, Colorado, Florida State, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Kentucky, Miami, Michigan State, Mississippi State, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, Oregon, Penn State, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas A&M, Tulane, Vanderbilt, Virginia Tech, Wisconsin Committed: Alabama

MARCUS GOREE JR., DEFENSIVE BACK

Bradley Central, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’ | Wt: 177

Offers: Alabama, Auburn, Austin Peay, Central Michigan, Charlotte, Chattanooga, Colorado, Eastern Kentucky, Louisville, Memphis, Miami (OH), Michigan, Michigan State, Mississippi State, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Ole Miss, Penn State, Tennessee, Toledo, UNLV, Vanderbilt, Virginia Tech

Committed: Tennessee

As of July 2023

KOBE SMITH, TIGHT END/DEFENSIVE END

Red Bank, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’3” | Wt: 195

Offers: Appalachian State, Arkansas State, Austin Peay, Chattanooga, Cincinnati, Duke, Eastern Kentucky, Elon, Furman, Liberty, Memphis, Miami (OH), Middle Tennessee State, Navy, Stanford, Tulane, Vanderbilt, Western Kentucky

Committed: Duke

WHIT MUSCHAMP, QUARTERBACK

Baylor, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’1” | Wt: 170

Offers: Appalachian State, Bowling Green, Cincinnati, Eastern Kentucky, Georgia Southern, Georgia Tech Liberty, Louisville, Marshall, Memphis, Middle Tennessee State, Missouri, Ole Miss, Samford, Tulane, Vanderbilt, Virginia, Western Carolina

Committed: Vanderbilt

CAMERON SPARKS, WIDE RECEIVER

Baylor, Class of 2025

Ht: 6’3” | Wt: 210

Offers: Arkansas, Chattanooga, Colorado, Duke, Eastern Kentucky, Florida State, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisville, Miami, Michigan State, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Wisconsin Committed: Undecided

MARCELLUS BARNES JR., ATHLETE

McCallie, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’2” | Wt: 170

Offers: Austin Peay, Baylor, Charlotte, Eastern Kentucky, Florida State, Georgia, Liberty, Michigan State, Minnesota, Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Tulane, Vanderbilt, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Wake Forest Committed: Virginia Tech

TITO WILLIAMS, SAFETY

Bradley Central, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’2” | Wt: 180

Offers: Duke, Incarnate Word, Kansas State, Miami (OH), North Texas, Ole Miss, UNLV, Vanderbilt, West Point, West Virginia, Yale Committed: Undecided

PAUL- MARIE DOGUI, DEFENSIVE END/LINEBACKER

McCallie, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’2” | Wt: 230

Offers: Charleston Southern, Chattanooga, Colgate, Cornell, Lehigh University, Tennessee State, UT Martin, Western Kentucky Committed: Undecided

TOP COLLEGE PROSPECTS

CARSON LAWRENCE, WIDE RECEIVER

McCallie, Class of 2025

Ht: 6’2” | Wt: 180

Offers: Appalachian State, Austin Peay, Connecticut, Eastern Kentucky, Long Island, New Mexico, Toledo, Vanderbilt Committed: Vanderbilt

CARSON GENTLE, LINEBACKER

McCallie , Class of 2024

Ht: 6’3” | Wt: 241

Offers: Harvard, Indiana, Kentucky, Ole Miss, Stanford, Tennessee, Virginia Tech Committed: Tennessee

JOSHUA HAMPTON, ATHLETE

Baylor, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’2” | Wt: 170

Offers: Colgate, Cornell, Eastern Kentucky, Navy, Princeton, Sacred Heart, Wofford Committed: Undecided

KALEB MARTIN, ATHLETE

Bradley Central, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’2” | Wt: 170

Offers: Akron, Appalachian State, Austin Peay, East Carolina, Miami (OH), Toledo, West Point Committed: Miami (OH)

AJ WALLACE, ATHLETE

South Pittsburg, Class of 2025

Ht: 6’2” | Wt: 180

Offers: Eastern Kentucky, Kentucky, Louisville, Michigan State, Mississippi State, Ole Miss, Toledo Committed: Undecided

Choose from ice cream, yogurt, sugar-free, or dairy-free options. Then choose between 40 fresh ingredients and we will blend your selections together to create any of over 17,000 flavor combinations! We also bake fresh waffle cones daily and offer all-fruit smoothies, snacks, and gourmet coffee.

Call Us: 423-702-5173 Visit Us: 105 Walnut St, Chattanooga Surf Us: TheIceCreamShowTN.com Follow us on Facebook for seasonal hours & more info!

Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-11pm Sunday 12pm-11pm

TOP COLLEGE PROSPECTS

J’ALAN TERRY, ATHLETE

Bradley Central, Class of 2025

Ht: 5’11” | Wt: 175

Offers: Austin Peay, Central Michigan, Charlotte, Eastern Kentucky, Kentucky, Toledo Committed: Undecided

OLIVIER CAMERLAIN, TIGHT END/DEFENSIVE LINE

McCallie, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’6” | Wt: 250

Offers: Colgate, LaFayette, Princeton, Wofford Committed: LaFayette

CHOOSEN LOKOMBE, DEFENSIVE BACK

McCallie, Class of 2024

Ht: 5’10” | Wt: 170

Offers: Sacred Heart, UT Martin Committed: Undecided

JÉRÉMY ST-HILAIRE, QUARTERBACK

McCallie, Class of 2024

Ht: 6’3” | Wt: 215

Offers: Vanderbilt, Wake Forest Committed: Vanderbilt

ETHAN DAVIS, RUNNING BACK/DEFENSIVE BACK

Rhea Co., Class of 2024

Ht: 5’9” | Wt: 160

Offers: Union College

Committed: Undecided

GAMEDAY EATS

As gameday arrives and school spirit soars, local restaurants stand ready to fuel the action. Here, we highlight the perfect dishes to enjoy before, during, and after the big game!

State of Confusion

POTATO CHIP NACHOS

House-made chips, pico, crema, Swiss American and cheddar cheeses

STIR

TILLAMOOK SLIDERS

Tillamook cheddar, beef patty, house pickles, garlic mayo

Tremont Tavern

EDAMOLE

House-made, guacamole-style edamame hummus served with fried pita

FEED Co. Table & Tavern

WAGYU SMASH BURGER

Two 4 oz. Mountain Breeze Farms Wagyu patties, cheddar, bacon, garlic aioli, spring mix, and a Niedlov’s bun

Parkway Pourhouse

PARKWAY WINGS  Cajun dry rub, celery, and ranch

Five Guys

DOUBLE CHEESEBURGER

100% fresh beef with American cheese, mayo, lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, grilled onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, and mustard

The Ice Cream Show

THE BARBIE SHAKE

Vanilla ice cream blended with amaretto, cheesecake, raspberries, and white chocolate chips and topped with whipped cream and sprinkles

Taziki’s

MEDITERRANEAN SALAD WITH SALMON

Mixed lettuces with garbanzo beans, roasted red peppers, red onions, diced tomatoes, roasted pecans, and feta, served with Taziki’s homemade balsamic vinaigrette

PHOTO BY TREVOR LONG

PHOTO BY EMILY PÉREZ LONG

PHOTO BY TREVOR LONG

Lupi’s Pizza Pies

BUILD-YOUR-OWN PIZZA

Pesto, pepperoni, feta, hand-tossed homemade dough, and Lupi’s own red sauce, baked to a golden brown on the brick

Hoptown

JUMBO SPENT GRAIN PRETZEL WITH SPICY BEER CHEESE

Made with spent grain from OddStory Brewing Co., topped with pecorino cheese, and baked at Bluff View Bakery

Food Works

SPINACH ARTICHOKE DIP

Served hot with pita wedges

PHOTO BY RICH SMITH

PHOTO BY EMILY PÉREZ LONG

PHOTO BY RICH SMITH

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW TEAM PROFILES

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CityScope®

magazine is proud to preview high school football teams from across the Chattanooga area.

What follows are 41 teams that compete in 15 different regions. Collectively, they represent high school football programs that span nine different counties – Hamilton County and the eight counties that adjoin it. It is our hope that you will find this section to be informative as well as entertaining and that each and every team is presented in a manner that celebrates their players while featuring the coaches who dedicate their time and talents to developing young athletes. Below are the regions that each of the 41 teams compete in. Those teams included in the 2023 High School Football Preview are in bold.

TENNESSEE

II-AAA – East

Baylor School

Brentwood Academy

Knoxville Catholic

Lipscomb Academy

McCallie School

Montgomery Bell Academy

II-AA – East

Boyd-Buchanan School

Chattanooga

Christian School

Christian Acad. of Knox.

Grace Christian Academy (Knoxville)

Notre Dame

Silverdale Baptist Academy

Webb School of Knoxville

6A – Reg. 2

Bearden

Bradley Central

Cleveland

Farragut

Hardin Valley Academy

Maryville

5A – Reg. 4

East Hamilton

The Howard School

McMinn Co.

Ooltewah

Rhea Co.

Walker Valley

4A – Reg. 3

East Ridge

Hixson

Loudon

Red Bank

Sequoyah (Madisonville)

Signal Mountain

Soddy Daisy

3A – Reg. 3

Brainerd

Chattanooga Central

McMinn Central

Meigs Co.

Sweetwater

Tyner Academy

3A – Reg. 4

Community

Giles Co.

Grundy Co.

Sequatchie Co.

Watertown

2A – Reg. 4

Cannon Co.

Cascade

Fayetteville

Forrest

Marion Co.

1A – Reg. 3

Chattanooga

Preparatory School

Copper Basin

Lookout Valley

Sale Creek

South Pittsburg

Whitwell

TSIAA – Div. 1

Christian Community

Franklin Christian

Grace Academy

Innovation Academy

Lancaster Christian

South Haven

GEORGIA

7 – AAAAA

Calhoun

Cartersville

Cass

Dalton

Hiram

Woodland

7 – AAAA

Cedartown

Central (Carrollton)

Heritage

Northwest

Whitfield

Sonoraville

Southeast

Whitfield

6 – AAA

Adairsville

Bremen

Coahulla Creek

Gordon Lee

LaFayette

Lakeview-Fort

Oglethorpe

Ridgeland

Ringgold

7 – A D1

Armuchee

Chattooga

Coosa

Dade Co.

Darlington

Pepperell

Trion

7 – A D2

Bowdon

Christian

Heritage

Mt. Zion

COACH ERIK KIMREY

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

The 2023 Red Raiders will have to replace a lot of talent and contend with a very demanding schedule. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS?

We need to be dynamic on offense and defense and continually improve throughout the season. Q

A

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Whit Muschamp, Amari Jefferson, Max LeBlanc, Joshua Hampton, and Bálint Rendessy. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM?

We return a lot of our offensive production and should have better overall team speed. Q

A

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

We have to improve our special teams play along with every other area. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

We play in an incredibly difficult league, full of very talented players and coaches. It will only be more difficult this year. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Our mentality will have to evolve in certain areas. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Team speed should be a strength of this team.

QUINCY WHITE

GRADY JOYNER

WHIT MUSCHAMP

STATS

COACH NAME:

Erik Kimrey (19 yrs. as a head coach, 2nd as head coach at Baylor)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN II-AAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 11-2

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 2nd

MASCOT: Red Raiders

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 RABUN GAPNACOOCHEE (H)

25 SETON HALL PREP (N)

SEPTEMBER 1 ARCHBISHOP STEPINAC (H)

8 LIPSCOMB ACADEMY (H)

15 CHRISTIAN BROTHERS (A)

22 BRENTWOOD ACADEMY (H)

29 MCCALLIE (A)

OCTOBER 13 LIFE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (H)

20 MONTGOMERY BELL ACADEMY (H)

27 KNOXVILLE CATHOLIC (H)

COACH’S VIEW

The 2023 season will bring many challenges for our team this coming year. We lost some great seniors, and younger players will have to step up to fill those holes. Our schedule is very demanding, and we will need to improve throughout the season in order to be competitive in November. We are excited about many of our players and their ability to make impactful plays. It will take the right approach and discipline in order for us to achieve our goals.

AMARI JEFFERSON

DOMANI WHITE

COOPER KEOWN

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

TN DIVISION II-AAA / BAYLOR SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

enrolled in over 99

different colleges and universities including Cornell, Davidson, Duke, Georgia Tech, Johns Hopkins, Pepperdine, Princeton, Stanford, Tufts, UCLA, UGA, UNC, and UVA

3.65 average GPA

100% accepted to four-year institutions

40+ playing athletics at the collegiate level

COACH RALPH POTTER

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM?

We will be more experienced in key positions.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Great senior leadership.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Jérémy St-Hilaire, Carson Gentle, Marcellus Barnes Jr., Olivier Camerlain, and Paul-Marie Dogui.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A Players are experienced and hungry.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Difficulty of schedule.

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Our guys were very disappointed with last year’s finish. Q

Win all your games.

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We should have good speed.

OLIVIER CAMERLAIN

JA’VON MCMAHAN

PAUL-MARIE DOGUI

STATS

COACH NAME: Ralph Potter (30 yrs. as a head coach, 22nd as head coach at McCallie)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN II-AAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 10-3

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 3rd

MASCOT: Blue Tornado

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 CCS (A)

25 WOODWARD ACADEMY (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 ST. XAVIER (H)

8 MEMPHIS UNIVERSITY (A) 15 BRENTWOOD ACADEMY (A) 22 MONTGOMERY BELL ACADEMY (H) 29 BAYLOR (H)

OCTOBER 13 FATHER RYAN (H) 20 KNOXVILLE CATHOLIC (A) 27 LIPSCOMB ACADEMY (A)

COACH’S VIEW

The schedule will be the most difficult in all my time at McCallie. We will play national powers in Woodward Academy and St. Xavier. We have to travel to Memphis, then to Nashville to open a three-game stretch versus Brentwood Academy, Montgomery Bell Academy, and Baylor. After an open date, we have Father Ryan, Knoxville Catholic, and Lipscomb.

CARSON GENTLE

MARCELLUS BARNES JR.

JÉRÉMY ST-HILAIRE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MCCALLIE SCHOOL

TN DIVISION II-AAA / MCCALLIE SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

BE ANYTHING AT MCCALLIE

We are a boys’ school passionate about athletics for much more than the glory of victory. McCallie strives to provide boys with opportunities to compete and learn the importance of dedication, commitment and teamwork which are essential to success on and off the field. Are you ready to be a part of the McCallie team? Call us at (423) 493-5631 or e-mail us at admission@ mccallie.org to learn more about life on the Ridge.

ROSTER

Roster as of July 31st

COACH GARY RANKIN

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A Young and very inexperienced.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A Growing up fast.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM?

A Houston Hicks, Jaylon Sanderfer, and Connor Beard.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Skill players are good and the program foundation has been set.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Making sure that I have our kids prepared every week!

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Development from year one to year two. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A Take nothing for granted. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR?

A Stronger team overall. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We feel good about our team speed and the way our kids train!

CONNOR BEARD

KAIDEN BATES

JATAVIOUS DAVIS

STATS

COACH NAME:

Gary Rankin (39 yrs. as a head coach, 2nd as head coach at Boyd-Buchanan)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN II-AA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 7-4

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 4th

MASCOT: Buccaneers

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 CHATTANOOGA PREP (H)

25 BRAINERD (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 CHRISTIAN ACAD. OF KNOX. (H)

8 NORTH COBB CHRISTIAN (A)

15 SILVERDALE (A)

22 CCS (H)

29 NOTRE DAME (H)

OCTOBER 6 LAKEWAY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (A)

20 KNOXVILLE WEBB (H)

27 GRACE CHRISTIANKNOXVILLE (A)

COACH’S VIEW

With a very tough schedule it will be very important to be prepared for our weekly schedule! No gimmes in this league and it will be vital that we build depth and have a lot of kids ready to play. Great buzz around Boyd football and a lot of excitement for the upcoming season!

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

JAYLON SANDERFER

DARIN SHANNON

HOUSTON HICKS

TN DIVISION II-AA / BOYD-BUCHANAN SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

COACH GRANT REYNOLDS

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Very athletic with a lot of playmakers.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Staying healthy.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Hayden Breaux, Jermaine Stinson, Malik Lee, Da’Rell Brown, and Dre Martin.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

The ability to play good defense and be physical. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

We have some capable linemen returning. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Sped up tempo offense, attacking style of defense. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We have some really athletic players on both sides of the ball that are really fast.

JERMAINE STINSON

HAYDEN BREAUX

STATS

COACH NAME:

Grant Reynolds (16 yrs. as a head coach, 1st as head coach at CCS)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN II-AA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 10-3

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 2nd

MASCOT: Chargers

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 MCCALLIE (H)

25 CHATTANOOGA CENTRAL (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 GRACE CHRISTIAN –KNOXVILLE (A)

8 SILVERDALE (H)

15 KNOXVILLE WEBB (A)

22 BOYD-BUCHANAN (A)

29 CHRISTIAN ACAD. OF KNOX. (H)

OCTOBER 13 LAKEWAY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (H) 20 POPE JOHN PAUL II (A)

27 NOTRE DAME (H)

COACH’S VIEW

We are building something special here at CCS. We look to continue on to progress deeper into the playoffs each year and make a championship run. Our coaches and young men will honor God on and off the field and set a good example of high character while maintaining a standard of excellence.

DRE MARTIN

MALIK LEE

RYDER SMITH

DA’RELL BROWN

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHATTANOOGA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

TN DIVISION II-AA / CHATTANOOGA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

CHATTANOOGA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL / TN DIVISION II-AA

2023 ROSTER

COACH CHARLES FANT

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Fast and physical. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

We need to play tough and aggressive defense, win the turnover battle, and average at least 60 plus plays on offense. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Justin Baker, Jadon Vintrov, EJ Carter, and Keegan Schafluetzel. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Strong leadership and players willing to do the extra. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Getting maximum reps at practice daily. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Experience from skill positions on offense and defense and intelligent offensive linemen. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Our region continues to get better. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

More plays on offense and more movement on defense. Q

We feel we will be one of the top conditioned teams in our area.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

JADON VINTROV

KEAGAN SMITH

ZIREON WATTERS

KAYLAN PATEL

LANDON GOELLER

STATS

COACH NAME:

Charles Fant (12 yrs. as a head coach, 12th as head coach at Notre Dame)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN II-AA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 4-6

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 6th

MASCOT: Fighting Irish

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 WALKER VALLEY (A)

25 SIGNAL MOUNTAIN (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 LAKEWAY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (A)

8 KNOXVILLE WEBB (H)

15 GRACE CHRISTIAN –KNOXVILLE (H)

22 SILVERDALE (H)

29 BOYD-BUCHANAN (A)

OCTOBER 6 CANNON CO. (H)

20 CHRISTIAN ACAD. OF KNOX. (A) 27 CCS (A)

COACH’S VIEW

We are a team of players and coaches taking each day as the most important day of the year. We are focusing on doing the little things at the elite level. And we are striving to create a culture any player and coach can excel in.

JUSTIN BAKER

EJ CARTER

MASON SIMS

PHOTOS BY BOB CORTE

TAY CARTER

2023 ROSTER

2023 ROSTER

COACH MIKE CONNOR

QHOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM?

AThe 2023 football team will be very young. We graduated a lot of talent from last year. This team will have the opportunity and challenge of quickly finding its identity. Last year’s successes are not good enough for this year’s challenges. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS?

Everyone trusting in the process as it is modeled by our coaches and upperclassmen.

QWHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM?

ACaden Bancroft, Tanner Bayne, Talan Butterworth, Timothy Connor, Brody Finch, Caleb Greco, Jack Harris, Nate Hampton, Ben Puglise, and Chase Walker.

QWHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM?

The work that our players have put in this off-season. These guys have gotten bigger and stronger. Our culture is gaining momentum as well. Common language and expectations are important in our ability to sustain success each week.

A

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR?

Several of our rising juniors and seniors played significant playing time last year. These guys have also worked extremely hard and efficient in our offseason training. There is a great deal of buy-in within our program.

A

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR?

We must respond best when it matters most in order to have consistent success this season.

A

BEN PUGLISE

CALEB GRECO

CHASE WALKER

STATS

COACH NAME: Mike Connor (4 yrs. as a head coach, 4th as head coach at Silverdale)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN II-AA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 8-4

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 3rd

MASCOT: Seahawks

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 WHITE CO. (H)

25 GOODPASTURE CHRISTIAN (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 KNOXVILLE WEBB (A) 8 CCS (A)

15 BOYD-BUCHANAN (H)

22 NOTRE DAME (A)

29 LAKEWAY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (H)

OCTOBER 6 SIGNAL MOUNTAIN (A) 20 GRACE CHRISTIAN –KNOXVILLE (H)

27 CHRISTIAN ACAD. OF KNOX. (A)

COACH’S VIEW

Our ’23 class set the bar really high for all the classes that will follow. This season, our team will find success only in the strength of their bond with each other. Each year our schedule presents different challenges. This season will be no different. Our single focus must be on protecting our mission of becoming a better version of ourselves for the benefit of others. If we will embrace this process, the outcome each week will take care of itself.

NATE HAMPTON

CADEN BANCROFT

TIMOTHY CONNOR

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SILVERDALE BAPTIST ACADEMY

TN DIVISION II-AA / SILVERDALE BAPTIST ACADEMY

SILVERDALE BAPTIST ACADEMY / TN DIVISION II-AA

2023 ROSTER

COACH DAMON FLOYD

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Full of potential, but the games are won on the field. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEY TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Staying healthy. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Marcus Goree Jr., Luke Keith, Kaleb Martin, Eugene Peterson, and Tito Williams. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

The most talented skill players we have had as a whole and four of five linemen returning. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

The tough region we play in that has great players and great coaches. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Being better up front on both sides of the ball. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Never say never. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

A few new players who have transferred in and will help a lot. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We have some really good team speed and players who can fly, but so do other teams in our region.

LUKE KEITH

TITO WILLIAMS

DAMARIUS BALLARD

RODNEY WILLIAMS

STATS

COACH NAME:

Damon Floyd (18 yrs. as a head coach, 18th as head coach at Bradley)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-6A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 7-4

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 4th

MASCOT: Bears

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 MCMINN CO. (A) 25 TYNER ACADEMY (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 MARYVILLE (H) 8 WALKER VALLEY (A) 29 FARRAGUT (A)

OCTOBER 6 HARDIN VALLEY (H) 13 RED BANK (A) 20 CLEVELAND (A) 27 BEARDEN (H)

COACH’S VIEW

We have a tough schedule playing in Region 2 6A, and we added Tyner, Red Bank, and McMinn, who are all tough. We have some tough pre-season scrimmages with three state champs (Baylor, Anderson Co., and Alcoa) but iron sharpens iron, so we hope it prepares us for what lies ahead.

MARCUS GOREE JR.

EUGENE PETERSON

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

2023 ROSTER

COACH CHANDLER TYGARD

Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

New – new coaching staff, players, and schemes. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

How quickly the players buy in to the new culture and coaching. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Camden Lockerby, Mycah Jordan, LJ Adams, Will Brantley, and Aaron Smith. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Cleveland has always had talented players and this season is no different. We will have a talented roster. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

This year will be a complete culture and scheme change from previous years and will be a rebuilding program this season. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Yes – everything will be different. New offensive and defensive schemes, personnel placement, and we are bringing back a separate freshman team for the first time in eight years. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We have fast and athletic skill players, as well as undersized but athletic front – seven players who are in our wrestling program. We have to find ways to use both of these advantages in our schemes.

CAMDEN LOCKERBY

STONEWALL SHURETTE

AARON SMITH

STATS

COACH NAME: Chandler Tygard (4 yrs. as a head coach, 1st as head coach at Cleveland)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-6A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 5th

MASCOT: Blue Raiders

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 CLINTON (A) 25 MCMINN CO. (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 WALKER VALLEY (A) 8 FARRAGUT (A) 15 RHEA CO. (A) 22 RED BANK (H)

OCTOBER 6 BEARDEN (A) 13 MARYVILLE (H) 20 BRADLEY CENTRAL (H) 27 HARDIN VALLEY (H)

COACH’S VIEW

Our region schedule is one of the more difficult schedules in the state (Maryville, Bearden, Bradley, and Farragut) but similar to the one our staff was used to in Murfreesboro (Oakland, Riverdale, etc.). We have the traditional non-region games against McMinn, Walker Valley, and Rhea but also add the talented Clinton and Red Bank teams. The key to our season is the players buying in our new style and staying as healthy as possible.

DYLAN HARROLD

MYCAH JORDAN

ISAIAH DAVIS

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

2023 ROSTER

ACS will soon announce their 18 Men for 2023. These men are leaders in our community and on a mission to make a difference with a goal to raise $200,000 by October 31. This will be the 9th year that the American Cancer Society of Chattanooga has hosted Real Men Wear Pink sponsored by Capital Toyota of Chattanooga. Men Wear Pink has raised close to $1 million dollars over the years ranking in the top 15 of the campaigns nationally held in over 100 cities across the US.

Erin and I started our life together over 20 years ago, living and working step by step and hand in hand. We share in everything, and this includes a cancer battle. We see firsthand the developments in medication and treatment plans that allow doctors to target the cancer makeup and stop growth. Because of research, trials, and newly approved medications rapidly hitting the market, assisted by ACS funding, patients are living longer and returning to a normal life.”

August 15

Men Wear Pink Launch Party

October 1-31

Breast Cancer Month

October 10

Give Back Tuesday at Capital Toyota

November 01

Last Day for Donations

November 07

Men Wear Pink Winner Announced

“Bluntly, I’m donating my time and resources to Men Wear Pink because my wife has breast cancer; this also means we have cancer...

COACH AARON NANCE

QHOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM?

Our roster is full of great young men that play really well together. We have several guys stepping into new roles with some big shoes to fill.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS?

Playing physical football on both lines of scrimmage. It will be extremely important for us to establish a running game on offense and be able to stop the run game on defense.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM?

Zane Liffick, Kireese Willis, and Trey Crawford.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM?

A dynamic group of skill players that are capable of making plays in all phases of the game.

A

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT?

Depth is going to be a key issue for our team. Making the move up to 5A can really expose some depth issues late in the year, especially when teams in our region will most likely dress more players on Friday night.

A

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR?

Our team went deep into the playoffs last year, which is always great experience for your players. Playoff football has a different feel, and it helps knowing that our kids have a lot of experience playing in the post season.

A

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR?

New offensive coordinator Adron Rebstock and defensive coordinator Gerald Jones have worked tirelessly this off-season to find the best schemes to fit our personnel. Establishing the run game and stopping the run will be the main focus for our team.

A

VANZALE HINTON

TREY CRAWFORD

ETHAN HIXSON

STATS

COACH NAME:

Aaron Nance (1 yr. as a head coach, 1st as head coach at East Hamilton)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-5A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 9-4

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 1st

MASCOT: Hurricanes

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 HIXSON (A)

25 HERITAGE (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 FRANKLIN CO. (H) 8 MCMINN CO. (H) 15 EAST RIDGE (H) 22 HOWARD (A) 29 OOLTEWAH (A)

OCTOBER 6 WALKER VALLEY (H) 20 SEVIER CO. (A) 26 RHEA CO. (H)

COACH’S VIEW

We have a new schedule and new region this year, which brings many challenges. Moving up to 5A places us against teams such as Rhea County and McMinn County, which both play a very physical brand of football. Our focus all year has been on establishing a culture of toughness at all positions to prepare us for the new region.

KIREESE WILLIS

ANDREW GILBERT

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

ROSTER

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Young but ready!

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Quarterback, offensive line, and defensive line play.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Chris Bradley, Jaron Bell, Ja’Caron Sanders, Ke’Shawn Suttles, Ronta Taylor Jr., and Cortez Houser.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Our players’ resiliency.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

I hope nothing! Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Our young secondary players. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Always be ready to make adjustments. Q WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Offensive and defensive strategy and kicking game.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We will have Howard football’s traditional team speed.

RONTA TAYLOR JR.

CAMERON ERVIN

JARON BELL

CORTEZ HOUSER

STATS

COACH NAME: Dedric Maffett (3 yrs. as a head coach, 3rd as head coach at Howard)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-5A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 1-9

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 5th

MASCOT: Hustlin’ Tigers

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 19 BRAINERD (A) 25 CHATTANOOGA PREP (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 REPUBLIC (H) 8 RHEA CO. (A) 15 SEQUOYAH (A) 22 EAST HAMILTON (H) 29 WALKER VALLEY (A)

OCTOBER 6 MCMINN CO. (H) 20 CHATTANOOGA CENTRAL (A) 26 OOLTEWAH (H)

COACH’S VIEW

Our goal is centered around four core values. Through our leadership, we hope to develop high school and college graduates, great husbands, fathers, and productive citizens in our community.

CHRIS BRADLEY

LANDON DOWDY

KE’SHAWN SUTTLES

PHOTOS BY TREVOR LONG

2023 ROSTER

COACH JAMES MANNING

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A Different and hungry.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Taking care of the ball and playing hard for four quarters.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Kobe Baldwin, Asa McMillon, Caden McMahan, Peyton Thomas, Antonio Hunter, and CJ Carter.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM?

Our guys show up and are working to change our culture. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Tough competition in region and our non-conference games. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Mentality towards the end of the year. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Don’t let up. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Hopefully the culture change pays off on the scoreboard.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We have good team speed.

CADEN MCMAHAN

JOSH DAVIS

STATS

COACH NAME: James Manning (3 yrs. as a head coach, 3rd as head coach at Ooltewah)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-5A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 1-9

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 4th

MASCOT: Owls

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 CHATTANOOGA CENTRAL (H) 25 SODDY DAISY (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 HIXSON (H) 8 KNOXVILLE CENTRAL (A) 15 WALKER VALLEY (H) 22 MCMINN CO. (A) 25 MCMINN CO. (A) 29 EAST HAMILTON (H)

OCTOBER 6 RHEA CO. (H) 20 COFFEE CO. CENTRAL (A) 26 HOWARD (A)

COACH’S VIEW

We need to get something going early. Our kids are good enough to win games; they need to believe it.

WESTON FRICK

KOBE BALDWIN ELI EAVES

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

TN DIVISION I-5A / OOLTEWAH HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

COACH MARK PEMBERTON

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

A lot of experience coming back. Good work ethic. Good attitude.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Building depth and line play.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Ethan Davis, Maurice Shirley, and Hunter Crowe.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

A lot of returning players have gained major game experience. A great off-season in the weight room.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A Depth. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Last year is OVER.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Good speed at the skill positions.

ETHAN DAVIS

HUNTER CROWE

MAURICE SHIRLEY

STATS

COACH NAME: Mark Pemberton (31 yrs. as a head coach, 11th as head coach at Rhea Co.)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-5A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 2-9

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 3rd

MASCOT: Golden Eagles

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 SODDY DAISY (H) 25 RED BANK (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 KNOXVILLE CENTRAL (A) 8 HOWARD (H) 15 CLEVELAND (H) 22 WALKER VALLEY (A) 29 MCMINN CO. (H)

OCTOBER 6 OOLTEWAH (A) 20 TYNER ACADEMY (H) 26 EAST HAMILTON (A)

COACH’S VIEW

After a disappointing performance last season, this year can’t get here fast enough. Looking forward to this year.

ANDREW KING

KESHAWN SMITH

PHOTOS BY RHEA COUNTY MAGAZINE

TN DIVISION I-5A / RHEA COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

August 18, 2023

August 25, 2023

September 1, 2023

September 8, 2023

September 15, 2023

September 22, 2023

September 29, 2023

October 6, 2023

October 20, 2023

October 27, 2023

COACH DREW AKINS

All the potential.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Can we run the ball and stop the run.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Evan Schwarzl, Jacob Hollingsworth, Ty Parker, Zeke Garrison, and Conner Phillips.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Our physical size and ability on the offensive and defensive front and experience/talent at QB. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Always injuries and depth. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

We lost several games by two scores or less, so learning to win those close games is key. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Scheme always changes slightly but the effort and passion we play with should always look the same. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We have the speed and athleticism to compete, but always training to get faster.

NOAH JONES

ROMAN EULO

JOSIAH SHEPPARD

EVAN SCHWARZL

STATS

COACH NAME: Drew Akins (5 yrs. as a head coach, 5th as head coach at Walker Valley)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-5A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 5-7

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 2nd

MASCOT: Mustangs

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 NOTRE DAME (H) 25 POLK CO. (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 CLEVELAND (H) 8 BRADLEY CENTRAL (H) 15 OOLTEWAH (A) 22 RHEA CO. (H) 29 HOWARD (H)

OCTOBER 6 EAST HAMILTON (A) 20 PURE ACADEMY (H) 26 MCMINN CO. (A)

COACH’S VIEW

With the new TSSAA region schedules we are front loaded with non-region games. The back end of our schedule will determine our playoff picture. To me, this is a great opportunity to use games early in the year to build a strong identity for our team before getting to the games that ultimately matter in determining playoff seeding and hosting opportunities. Our region is very talented and all have a great opportunity to win.

BRAXTON SMITH

CONNER PHILLIPS

PHOTOS BY DAWN CARSON

TN DIVISION I-5A / WALKER VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

COACH CHAD BARGER

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Full of experience. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

We must protect the ball, play disciplined football, and stay healthy. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Jermaine Blackstock, Javonte Pullom, Cayden McCrary, Justin Ellis, Cadion Harris, Jakye Odom, and Hasani Jackson.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

The returning players from last year giving us an experienced football team. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Our kids played hard and were a much better team at the end of the season than when the season began. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

We have to make sure we are disciplined and understand our roles on the field. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Things shift a little every year due to what best fits the kids. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Pretty good. We are a bit undersized so we will rely more on speed.

MARQUELL SAILS

CADION HARRIS

CAYDEN MCCRARY

STATS

COACH NAME: Chad Barger (19 yrs. as a head coach, 2nd as head coach at East Ridge)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-4A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 2-8

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 5th

MASCOT: Pioneers

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 MARION CO. (A) 25 SEQUATCHIE CO. (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 RED BANK (A) 8 LOUDON (H) 15 EAST HAMILTON (A) 22 CHATTANOOGA PREP (H) 29 SIGNAL MOUNTAIN (A)

OCTOBER 6 SODDY DAISY (H) 20 SEQUOYAH (A) 27 HIXSON (H)

COACH’S VIEW

The schedule we play is a pretty tough one. We must be able to handle the physical play of the schedule and play with toughness and discipline to withstand our schedule. We need to stay as healthy as possible to be successful this season. Our young men are excited about the new challenges our schedule brings.

JAVONTE PULLOM

JERMAINE BLACKSTOCK

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY AND GARY FAIN PHOTOGRAPHY

2023 ROSTER

COACH NICK RIVERS III

QHOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM?

AHardnosed and experienced. We have many players that have had significant experience on both sides of the ball.

QWHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM?

Jeffrey “Diesel” Deason, Richard Burney, Chase Packer, Tyus Henry, and Michael “Koko” Kendricks.

A

QWHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM?

I have watched our team grow and advance over the last four years. They are hungry for success and they are taking it upon themselves to get extra work on the field, the classroom, and the weightroom. They are doing the little things even when coaches are not watching. Q

A

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Nothing really. I believe in maximizing time efficiently and effectively, and letting the players play fast. I trust my guys will show up every day ready to put the work in. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

I want to build an expectation of winning and continuing to do things the right way. I feel like making the playoffs was an experience that really helped our guys see there is another level to playing the game. Winning in November is different than the regular season.

Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED?

A Coach Ward has really given us a boost with our track and speed training this off-season. Our players are moving more explosively and have more confidence using their speed.

RON SUTTLES

RICHARD BURNEY

JEFFREY DEASON

STATS

COACH NAME: Nick Rivers III (1 yr. as a head coach, 1st as head coach at Hixson)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-4A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 5-6

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 4th MASCOT: Wildcats

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 EAST HAMILTON (H) 25 MEIGS CO. (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 OOLTEWAH (A) 8 SIGNAL MOUNTAIN (H) 15 LOUDON (A) 22 SODDY DAISY (A) 29 SEQUOYAH (H)

OCTOBER 6 CHATTANOOGA PREP (H) 20 RED BANK (H) 27 EAST RIDGE (A)

COACH’S VIEW

I feel like over the years we have made steady improvement as a program and that culminated in our first playoff berth in seven seasons. We are building a culture here through hard work and high character that I am used to seeing in Hixson High School’s program. I feel that if we focus on consistently doing the right things, then the wins will come on the field and in life for our young men. To me, that is success.

ISAAC SMITH

SANTANA SHARP

ADAM BILLINGSLEY

PHOTOS BY GARY FAIN PHOTOGRAPHY

2023 ROSTER

QHOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Hard workers that love to compete in every aspect. Good speed and understanding the offensive/defensive and special teams concepts. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Building depth in the offensive and defensive lines and developing young players. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Kobe Smith, Malik Rizer, Eric Hill, Brayden Howard, and Cordell Howard. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Some experience in the offensive line and defensive line, along with a team that enjoys work. Key returners that have worked hard to improve in the off-season. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Depth and a tough region schedule, along with a tough non-region schedule. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Players that learned to deal with adversity and have worked hard in the off-season to prepare for this upcoming season. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Our players have realized the significance of little things and the importance of details. They understand that outcome is determined by preparation.

KOBE SMITH

STATS

COACH NAME: Ted Gatewood (19 yrs. as a head coach, 2nd as head coach at Red Bank)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-4A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 11-4

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 2nd

MASCOT: Lions

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 TYNER ACADEMY 25 RHEA CO. (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 EAST RIDGE (H) 15 SIGNAL MOUNTAIN (A) 22 CLEVELAND (A) 29 SODDY DAISY (H)

OCTOBER 6 SEQUOYAH (H) 13 BRADLEY CENTRAL (H) 20 HIXSON (A) 27 LOUDON (A)

COACH’S VIEW

The 2023 Red Bank High School football team has an opportunity to have a very successful season. The keys will be staying healthy and developing depth. There is a nucleus of solid players that are extremely talented. It is imperative for the younger players to mature quickly. The Region 3 4A schedule with all of the returning members improving and working hard along with the addition of two really good programs in Loudon and Signal Mountain will make for exciting contests each week. The non-region schedule will be very tough as well. Each week will be a challenge that will require maximum effort and preparation by coaches and players.

ERIC HILL

TN DIVISION I-4A / RED BANK HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

COACH JOSH ROBERTS

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Character driven, hardworking, and talented.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Team unity, senior leadership, and making the most of our opportunities.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Max Hilke, Blake Holly, Jace McConnon, and Blake Wolfard.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Returning a lot of key players who have a lot of experience. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Inexperience in a few positions. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

We played a lot of close games last season and learned to play under pressure. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

We learned to play within ourselves and limit mistakes. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

We will have new players in multiple positions. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We have a few skill players who have pretty good speed.

CASH KEENE

JACE MCCONNON

GARRETT WILSON

STATS

COACH NAME: Josh Roberts (7 yrs. as a head coach, 7th as head coach at Signal Mountain)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-4A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 3-7

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 5th

MASCOT: Eagles

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 MCMINN CENTRAL (H) 25 NOTRE DAME (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 SEQUOYAH (H) 8 HIXSON (A) 15 RED BANK (H) 22 LOOKOUT VALLEY (A) 29 EAST RIDGE (H)

OCTOBER 6 SILVERDALE (H) 20 LOUDON (A) 27 SODDY DAISY (A)

COACH’S VIEW

This season’s schedule is pretty tough, so we will have to play our best game in each one. If we focus on executing in major situations, we could have a lot of success. We’re excited to see what this year’s team can do.

JOSH THOMPSON

BLAKE WOLFARD

MAX HILKE

TN DIVISION I-4A / SIGNAL MOUNTAIN HIGH

2023 ROSTER

COACH CARTER CARDWELL

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Players that are excited about the changes we have made to our program during the off-season and the leadership of our senior class. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Developing a new starter at quarterback and improvement on the offensive and defensive line. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A Matthew Nunley, Reid Phillips, Tyler Moore, and Blake Castelin. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

The number of players on our current roster gives us the opportunity to let numerous players contribute and keep key players fresh. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A Injuries. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A Returning starters on the offensive and defensive line. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Never stop teaching fundamentals and stay positive.

Q WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A A different style of offense. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A Good.

BRISTYN STEWART

BLAKE CASTELIN

MATTHEW NUNLEY

STATS

COACH NAME:

Carter Cardwell (4 yrs. as a head coach, 2nd as head coach at Soddy Daisy)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-4A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 2-8

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 6th

MASCOT: Trojans

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 RHEA CO. (A) 25 OOLTEWAH (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 LOUDON (H) 8 SEQUOYAH (A) 15 CHATTANOOGA

CENTRAL (A) 22 HIXSON (H) 29 RED BANK (A)

OCTOBER 6 EAST RIDGE (A) 20 WILLIAM BLOUNT (H) 27 SIGNAL MOUNTAIN (H)

COACH’S VIEW

I believe the key to our success this season will be how well we can adjust to the situations that we will encounter.

LAKE RENFRO

DREW LEWIS

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

TN DIVISION I-4A / SODDY DAISY HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

NEURO-PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

INDUSTRIAL ARTS

FAMILY PROGRAMMING

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

SIBLING SUPPORT

ART + MUSIC THERAPY

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

They are hungry for success.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEY TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Our keys will be our young men coming together and realizing that they have what it takes to be great!

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Jay’un Smith, Jaquez Poole, Marquise High, Terrance Lee, Kascine Beamon, and Derrion Calloway.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Improving team buy-in. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Continuing to build on getting the kids to work hard.

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A Yes. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

A group that is going to fly around.

COACH SAMMY SEAMSTER XAVIER REVIERE

JARVIS STRICKLAND JR.

WILLIE GRAVES JR.

STATS

COACH NAME: Sammy Seamster (1 yr. as a head coach, 1st as head coach at Brainerd)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-3A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 5-6

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 4th MASCOT: Panthers

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 19 HOWARD (H)

25 BOYD-BUCHANAN (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 CHATTANOOGA PREP (H) 8 MCMINN CENTRAL (A) 15 TYNER ACADEMY (H)

22 MARION CO. (H) 29 KNOXVILLE WEBB (A)

OCTOBER 6 CHATTANOOGA CENTRAL (H) 20 MEIGS CO. (A) 26 SWEETWATER (A)

COACH’S VIEW

I see us having great success as long as our guys continue to buy in, work hard, and come together as one.

TERRANCE LEE JR.

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY, GARY FAIN PHOTOGRAPHY, AND COURTESY OF BRAINERD HIGH SCHOOL

MIKE BROOKS

2023 ROSTER

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Young and eager, but very polished and game ready.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Like any team, if we can get the O-line going, it will be a fun year.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Ronye Watson, Houston Boykin, Carter Daniel, Caden Jones, and Brian Pruitt

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A Athleticism.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A Youth. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Learning how to finish better.

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

As a team, you’re only as strong as the bond that the team shares. Q WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Yes, a few things.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Above average.

COACH CURT JONES

RONYE WATSON

CADEN JONES

CORDARRIUS JEFFERSON

STATS

COACH NAME: Curt Jones (11 yrs. as a head coach, 10th as head coach at Central)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-3A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 6-5

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 3rd

MASCOT: Pounders

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 OOLTEWAH (A)

25 CCS (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 MARION CO. (A)

8 TYNER ACADEMY (A)

15 SODDY DAISY (H)

22 MEIGS CO. (H)

29 SWEETWATER (H)

OCTOBER 6 BRAINERD (A) 20 HOWARD (H)

26 MCMINN CENTRAL (H)

COACH’S VIEW

The past five seasons as a program, we have accomplished a lot of goals. 2018 – back-to back home playoff games. 2021 – co-region champions and playoffs. 2022 – playoffs. 2021-22 – back-to-back winning seasons for the first time since 1968-1969. This 2023 version of the Pounders has an opportunity to build on the last five years, compete for a region championship, and go as far as their fate will push them in the playoffs.

HOUSTON BOYKIN

CARTER DANIEL

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHATTANOOGA CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

TN DIVISION I-3A / CHATTANOOGA CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

COACH CHRISTIAN MAINOR

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

If we continue the Tyner brand of physical football. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Jamarie Ballard, Monteast Moore, Chazz Craig, Biship Smith, and Sharkem Wells. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

We have a lot of experience from our offensive line coming back.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Complacency. When you win a championship, it can be easy to mail it in and think you’ve arrived, but this is a new team with a lot to prove. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Winning is contagious, and I think our guys learned a lot from last year’s success. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

The weight room is the most important part of our football program and will continue to be a focal point. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

We have quarterbacks with a different skillset, so we will look a little different on offense. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

As always, we have great team speed. Getting the ball into different guys’ hands and letting them work will be key for us.

JAEDEN ISBELL

DAVIN PASLEY

CHASE THOMPSON

CHAZZ CRAIG

STATS

COACH NAME: Christian Mainor (1 yr. as a head coach, 1st as head coach at Tyner)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-3A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 14-1

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 1st

MASCOT: Rams

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 RED BANK (A) 25 BRADLEY CENTRAL (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 MCMINN CO. (A) 8 CHATTANOOGA

CENTRAL (H) 15 BRAINERD (A) 22 SWEETWATER (H) 29 MARION CO. (A)

OCTOBER 6 MCMINN CENTRAL (A) 20 RHEA CO. (A) 26 MEIGS CO. (A)

COACH’S VIEW

We have a new challenge moving up to 3A. Our region has well-coached teams paired with a lot of talent. We have to make sure we are playing our best football every week. Our non-region schedule is also difficult. Weeks 1-3 will tell us a lot about ourselves.

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY AND COURTESY OF TYNER ACADEMY

SHARKEM WELLS

JAMARIE BALLARD

2023 ROSTER

COACH RUSTY MCINTYRE

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

We are a young team that works hard daily. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

The ability of our entire team to play with great discipline and effort.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Evan Griffith, Aaron McDaniel, Sam Evitts, Britt Chadwick, Austin Griffith, and Harrison Smith. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Although we are young and have talented kids, the biggest reason for optimism is the attitude and effort the players have when they attack each day. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Last season we were able to host a playoff game in the first round. It did not turn out the way we wanted, so hopefully we can use that experience to improve. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Hopefully we learned that we have to play a full four quarters. You cannot lose focus or energy anytime during a football game, against any opponent.

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

We will continue to try and showcase the strengths of our kids. At times that may look different than last year.

LAMONTE KELLY

STATS

COACH NAME: Rusty McIntyre (3 yrs. as a head coach, 3rd as head coach at Sequatchie Co.)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-3A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 6-5

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 2nd MASCOT: Indians

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 BLEDSOE CO. (H) 25 EAST RIDGE (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 WATERTOWN (H) 8 SOUTH PITTSBURG (H) 15 MARION CO. (A) 22 COALFIELD (H) 29 FAYETTEVILLE (A)

OCTOBER 6 COMMUNITY (A) 20 GRUNDY CO. (H) 27 GILES CO. (A)

COACH’S VIEW

Our team has a good opportunity to improve throughout the year and hopefully make a playoff run. Our schedule is full of teams that will beat us if we do not play well. We should show tremendous improvement throughout the year as our youth gets more experience.

KANE BISHOP

JAXON BOSTON

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

2023 ROSTER

COACH TIM STARKEY Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

More experienced and older. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Having more of a player driven team. Young guys stepping up.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A Braydon Coffelt, Kane Bohanan, Ryan Kitchen, Brody Leonard, and Sam Pickett.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Having more experienced players on the field on both sides of the ball. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Hoping our team is staying healthy and making good decisions on the grass and off. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Being more physical and disciplined. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Always be prepared for anything that could shake your season up. Q WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

A more physical and prepared team. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Not too bad. OL/DL should be quicker off the ball this season.

EJ WILSON

BRODY LEONARD

RYAN KITCHEN

STATS

COACH NAME: Tim Starkey (2 yrs. as a head coach, 2nd as head coach at Marion Co.)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-2A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 5-5

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 5th

MASCOT: Warriors

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 EAST RIDGE (H) 25 DADE CO. (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 0 CHATTANOOGA CENTRAL (H) 8 FAYETTEVILLE (H) 15 SEQUATCHIE CO. (H) 22 BRAINERD (A) 29 TYNER ACADEMY (H)

OCTOBER 6 FORREST (A) 20 CANNON CO. (A) 27 CASCADE (H)

COACH’S VIEW

We are playing a different schedule than we are used to this season due to a tough rescheduling year. We will take it a week at a time, but we will be well prepared.

BRAYDON COFFELT

PHOTOS BY GENE FULLER

TN DIVISION I-2A / MARION COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

SAM PICKETT

TILTON PICKETT

TAYLOR SCHARBER

2023 ROSTER

Every Game

COACH EUGENE BANKS

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Young and aggressive. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Working hard in the weight room and playing together as a team. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Marquis Gardner, LonDeon Kellogg, Dommonic Johnson, Jaelen Banks, and Ashton Jordan. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

The potential for growth and development with such a young team. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Assuring that our team is physically ready to play like I know we can and remaining patient with our young team. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

We can build on our defense; we’re adding some good young talent to our defense. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

That we have the potential to really compete at the varsity level. Adding depth will help us tremendously. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

You will see a more disciplined, aggressive, and confident group on the field.

LONDEON KELLOGG JAELEN BANKS

DOMMONIC JOHNSON

STATS

COACH NAME:

Eugene Banks (4 yrs. as a head coach, 4th as head coach at Chattanooga Prep)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-1A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 1-7

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: N/A

MASCOT: Sentinels

2023

SCHEDULE*

AUGUST 18 BOYD-BUCHANAN (A) 25 HOWARD (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 BRAINERD (A)

8 SALE CREEK (H) 15 COPPER BASIN (A) 22 EAST RIDGE (A)

OCTOBER 6 HIXSON (A) 13 SOUTH PITTSBURG (H) 20 WHITWELL (H) 26 LOOKOUT VALLEY (A)

*All home games played at The Howard School

COACH’S VIEW

I feel like we have a great opportunity to make a push in our division. We are growing physically and by numbers. The blessing we have is that 100% of our players will return for the 2025 season because we have no seniors.

PHOTOS BY TREVOR LONG JAY PARKER

ZAIRE MCCRAY

MARQUIS GARDNER

TN DIVISION I-1A / CHATTANOOGA PREPARATORY SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

(423) 495-4438 | supportmemorialfoundation.org

FY22-23 BY THE NUMBERS

SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

NUMBER OF DONORS 1,946 $104,000

NEW CARDIAC EQUIPMENT FUNDED $808,000 $4,868,879

TOTAL FUNDS RAISED

COST PER DOLLAR SECURED $0.24 $210,500

PROJECTS FUNDED BY EMPLOYEES

NUMBER OF PEOPLE TRAINED THROUGH MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID GRANT 1,252 $180,000

VALUE OF IN-KIND DONATIONS

COACH JOSHUA PAYNE

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A Hungry. Q

Staying healthy.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A Christian Chandler, Hunter Holland, Rylan Collins, and Namarian Talley.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Experience and athleticism.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Depth and injuries.

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Finding different ways to win games. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Adjust the scheme to fit the players you have from year to year. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Yes, spread offensively. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Above average for our level.

DEVON COOPER JR.

DAYON COOPER

NAMARIAN TALLEY

AIDEN HOOD

STATS

COACH NAME: Joshua Payne (5 yrs. as a head coach, 5th as head coach at Lookout Valley)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-1A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 5-6

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 3rd MASCOT: Yellow Jackets

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 GRACE ACADEMY (A) 25 MT. JULIET CHRISTIAN ACADEMY (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 GRUNDY CO. (A) 8 WHITWELL (A) 15 SOUTH PITTSBURG (A) 22 SIGNAL MOUNTAIN (H) 29 SALE CREEK (A)

OCTOBER 6 HUNTLAND (H) 13 COPPER BASIN (H) 26 CHATTANOOGA PREP (H)

COACH’S VIEW

I believe this year’s schedule allows us to be competitive in every game. Experience and health will determine our level of success on the field this season.

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY AND COURTESY OF LOOKOUT VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

CHRISTIAN CHANDLER

RYLAN COLLINS

2023 ROSTER

COACH JASON FITZGERALD

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Experienced with a large senior class.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Mental and physical toughness.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Jackson Moore, Grayson Cosper, Gabe Womack, Lucas Mathis, and Brayden Grimes.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A Enthusiasm.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

I sleep no matter what, so even if I had worries it wouldn’t bother my sleeping!

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

The number of guys that have played on Friday night. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Everything, as this is our first year.

LUCAS MATHIS

BRAYDEN GRIMES

GABE WOMACK

STATS

COACH NAME: Jason Fitzgerald (22 yrs. as a head coach, 1st as head coach at Sale Creek)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-1A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 4-7

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 4th

MASCOT: Panthers

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 MIDWAY (A) 25 JACKSON CO. (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 BLEDSOE CO. (H) 8 CHATTANOOGA PREP (A) 15 WHITWELL (H) 22 GRUNDY CO. (H) 29 LOOKOUT VALLEY (H)

OCTOBER 6 PICKETT CO. (H) 20 SOUTH PITTSBURG (A) 26 COPPER BASIN (A)

COACH’S VIEW

We are not going to worry about who is on our schedule. Our goal is to work on making Sale Creek better and better each week. Being the best possible team we can be. The good thing about the schedule though is that there are two former state champions on it, so we will be able to see how we stack up against them!

JACKSON MOORE

GRAYSON COSPER

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

2023 ROSTER

COACH WES STONE

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Young overall, but with good senior leadership. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

QB play and improving in the offensive line.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Kamden Wellington, RaCash Kelly, Jamarion Farrior, Cameron Grider, Omar Slatton, and Logan Hargis.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Several members of the senior class will be three-year starters. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

The amount of overall youth we have on our roster this season. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

The great year we had from our quarterback. He threw for over 2,100 yards and 33 passing touchdowns. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

We got reminded of a lesson that we already knew. When you can’t run the football, you have a hard time winning the big games. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Overall we will have good team speed.

RACASH KELLY

JACE STONE

JAMARION FARRIOR

STATS

COACH NAME:

Wes Stone (3 yrs. as a head coach, 3rd as head coach at South Pittsburg)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-1A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 9-3

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 1st

MASCOT: Pirates

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 OLIVER SPRINGS (H) 25 FRANKLIN CO. (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 COPPER BASIN (A)

8 SEQUATCHIE CO. (A)

15 LOOKOUT VALLEY (H)

22 NORTH JACKSON (A)

29 MIDDLE TENNESSEE CHRISTIAN (H)

OCTOBER 13 CHATTANOOGA PREP (A) 20 SALE CREEK (H) 26 WHITWELL (H)

COACH’S VIEW

Our non-region schedule will be very challenging with teams primarily from larger classifications. The region should be improved. Whitwell and Sale Creek return a lot of starters and obviously Sale Creek’s addition of Coach Fitzgerald is going to make our region better as well.

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY

LOGAN HARGIS

KAMDEN WELLINGTON

2023 ROSTER

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COACH ROCKY STEPHENSON

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

A close group of guys that care about each other.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Believing in the process.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Brandon Easterly, Bennett McDougal, Zach Rollins, and Therion Mordecai.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM?

We have a lot of experience and the guys work hard.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A Injuries.

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

I think winning nine times last season will help our confidence going forward. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

We learned that hard work pays off. We need to continue working harder. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Hopefully more wins! Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We have good overall speed.

BENNETT MCDOUGAL

BRANDON EASTERLY

BEN BARTON

STATS

COACH NAME:

Rocky Stephenson (3 yrs. as a head coach, 3rd as head coach at Whitwell)

DIVISION/CLASS: TN I-1A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 9-3

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 2nd MASCOT: Tigers

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 HUNTLAND (A) 25 GREENBACK (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 JO BYRNS (H) 8 LOOKOUT VALLEY (H) 15 SALE CREEK (A) 22 COPPER BASIN (H) 29 BLEDSOE CO. (A)

OCTOBER 6 OLIVER SPRINGS (A) 20 CHATTANOOGA PREP (A) 26 SOUTH PITTSBURG (A)

COACH’S VIEW

A good mix of older players coupled with some exciting younger players gives us a good chance to have a very successful season. We need to stay focused on the process of becoming a better team and take each game one at a time.

WYATT DAVIS

THERION MORDECAI

ZACH ROLLINS

PHOTOS BY ANDY MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY AND COURTESY OF WHITWELL HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

COACH BOB ATECA

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

We will have an experienced team with many returning players. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Staying healthy and team chemistry. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Wesley Thompson, Jacob Mock, Brock Passons, Carson Knecht, and Austin Nelson. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

We have a great group of young men. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Making sure we have everyone in the correct position to help the team. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

The experience gained. Q ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Always be ready for the unexpected. Q WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

We will evaluate what best fits our players through spring and fall practice before making any changes. Q

We want our team to play fast by understanding their assignments.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

WESLEY THOMPSON

JACOB MOCK

AUSTIN NELSON

BROCK PASSONS

STATS

COACH NAME:

Bob Ateca (24 yrs. as a head coach, 12th as head coach at Grace)

DIVISION/CLASS: TSIAA Div. 1

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 6-5

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 3rd

MASCOT: Golden Eagles

2023 SCHEDULE*

AUGUST 11 SOUTHAVEN (A)

18 LOOKOUT VALLEY (H)

25 CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 FRANKLIN CHRISTIAN (H)

15 KING’S ACADEMY (H)

22 ZION CHRISTIAN (A)

29 ASD (H)

OCTOBER 6 INNOVATION ACADEMY (A)

13 LANCASTER CHRISTIAN (H)

*All home games played at CSLA except September 1st

COACH’S VIEW

We are very excited as we begin to transition back into the 11man game of football. We will still compete for a championship in eight-man football, but we added a few 11-man games as well. Our hope is to play a full 11-man schedule in 2024. We have a very young team that will only get better as the season progresses. If we come together as a family and forget about individual accomplishments, we will see great things happen.

CARSON KNECHT

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRACE ACADEMY

TSIAA DIV. 1 / GRACE ACADEMY

2023 ROSTER

RED ZONE REVIEW THE QUAKE

The excitement for the 2023 high school football season is here. Georgia is set, and the TSSAA reclassified in Tennessee. Some regions will look different, and some rivalries will adjust accordingly. Here, local sports gurus Quake and Cowboy Joe take a peek at what to expect starting in August.

TENNESSEE II-AAA - EAST

QUAKE: Baylor did it; the Red Raiders won the state for the first time in 49 years and reshuffled the deck in the highest classification in the state. With the addition of two-time defending state champs Lipscomb Academy, this region becomes the toughest to win in the entire state. Red Raiders boss Erik Kimrey was through the roof before last year, and to beat McCallie and win the state is truly remarkable. The returning talent is ridiculous starting with senior quarterback Whit Muschamp and his top two targets wide receiver Amari Jefferson and tight end Max LeBlanc. The Red Raiders will have to replace four on the offensive line, but defensively Baylor will have returning defensive back Josh Hampton along with twin brothers Domani and Quincy White, both defensive linemen. Also, super junior Cameron Sparks is considered one of the top prospects for the 2025 class in the state. Blue Tornado’s Jérémy StHilaire is a big guy at 6’4” who threw for over 2,300 yards, 25 touchdowns, and ran for 400+ yards. Carson Gentle will be called on to contribute both on offense and defense, and Marcellus Barnes Jr. and Carson Lawrence will be StHilaire’s top targets. Prediction: The winner of Baylor vs. McCallie will have a huge leg up, but I really think the question will be, can Lipscomb Academy dominate AAA like they did AA. I’m going McCallie to win the region simply because they host Baylor this year and will be playing with a monster-size chip on their shoulder.

TENNESSEE II-AA - EAST

COWBOY JOE: See ya, Lipscomb. I know the teams in Region II-AA are happy to see that menace move up to II-AAA. What does that mean for our local teams? It will be one less roadblock to the state championship, but it won’t be easy. Knoxville Webb seems to be one of the best teams in this region. They went undefeated in 2022 until

COWBOY JOE

a Lipscomb matchup in the semifinals. Locally, BoydBuchanan looks to improve in Gary Rankin’s second year. They’ll have a number of playmakers to rely on including Jaylon Sanderfer. Chattanooga Christian School will gain a new coach in Grant Reynolds. I think he will do great things at CCS. Silverdale, coming off an eight-win season, looks to replace quarterback Brett Rogers, and Notre Dame looks for their first winning season since 2018. Winner: BoydBuchanan, Contender: Knox Webb

TENNESSEE 6A - REGION 2

QUAKE: Maryville is Maryville. Their dominance has been duly noted. Cleveland upset them last year to snap a 144-game region winning streak. Yeah, that’s not a typo. So let’s move to the two teams in our area. The rivalry that is Bradley Central and Cleveland ought to be a barnburner again this year. The Bears have quarterback and Rhea Co. transfer Kaleb Martin along with junior running back J’Alan Terry who ran for more than 1,100 yards last year. Blocking for those guys will be led by Luke Keith. One big storyline for Bradley head coach Damon Floyd will be the Vols' commit Orlando “Boo” Carter. Carter transferred to Bradley to be paired with Marcus Goree Jr. Add in Tito Williams and junior cornerback Mason Goree, and the Bears should push Maryville to the brink this year. But don’t forget Cleveland – the Blue Raiders hired new coach Chandler Tygard from Murfreesboro Blackman. The Raiders want to run the uptempo, snap it every 10-13 seconds offense that we saw at the University of Tennessee last year. Led by two quarterbacks LJ Adams and Notre Dame transfer Cash Bandy, Cleveland returns 14 starters from a year ago and expects linebacker Camden Lockerby, who had over 100 tackles last year, to anchor the defense. The future for Cleveland looks magnificent with a sophomore class that explodes with talent. The matchup in this rivalry on October 20th will blow up the hype machine. Prediction: The winner of Bradley @ Maryville on September 1st will win the region. I’m going with Bradley.

TENNESSEE 5A – REGION 4

COWBOY JOE: McMinn County was top dog in this region last year and they have a great shot at repeating in 2023. However, there is a new kid on the block. East Hamilton moves up from 4A and is expected to contend for the

region title. They lose an incredible athlete in Juan Bullard, but head coach Aaron Nance will have plenty of athletes to work with. Rhea County looks to rebound from a two-win season and will have to do it without quarterback Kaleb Martin. If Ethan Davis can stay healthy at the running back position, Rhea County will fly high once again. Walker Valley hopes to get their first winning season since 2020, Howard looks for a multiple-win season, and Ooltewah looks for improved play in 2023. Winner: Rhea County, Contender: McMinn County

TENNESSEE 4A – REGION 3

QUAKE: New to the region are Signal Mountain and Loudon. Brand new Hixson head coach Nick Rivers III has the Wildcat community excited about potential success. The Wildcats had a nasty defense last year holding five opponents to 15 points or less. Both East Ridge and Soddy Daisy look to shake last year's efforts, only winning two games a piece a year ago. Signal Mountain returns quarterback Cash Keene, who threw for over 1,600 yards last year, and four offensive linemen return along with wide receivers Blake Wolfard and Chris Kennedy. The Eagles will have to replace almost the entire defense if they want a playoff spot. Sequoyah will try to snap a 44-game losing streak, and it won’t be easy. But to be the man, you’ve got to beat the man, as Ric Flair once said. Red Bank is the man. Coach Ted Gatewood’s Lions return Kobe Smith, who had 83 tackles, 11 sacks, nine forced fumbles, nine fumble recoveries, two blocked kicks, and four touchdowns. Now that’s stuffing the stat sheet. After playmaker Duane Morris transferred out, the Lions will have someone step up to replace his high volume of output. Prediction: The Red Bank @ Loudon game on October 27th will decide the region title. I like Red Bank.

TENNESSEE 3A – REGION 3

COWBOY JOE: Tyner and Meigs County move up from 2A to battle for the top spot in 3-AAA. Christian Mainor takes over as the head football coach for Tyner, and Tommy Bunch replaces Jason Fitzgerald at Meigs County. Coach Mainor will have a number of athletes to replace from 2022’s state champion team. Quarterback Josh Jackson will be tough to replace, but the Ram Train will have athletes to choose from. Sweetwater is coming off a 10-win season, so it will be interesting to see if they can continue their winning ways. I’ve

heard some good things about Brainerd and Chattanooga Central. Both teams will have athletes all over the place. Winner: Tyner, Contender: Chattanooga Central

TENNESSEE 3A – REGION 4

COWBOY JOE: This region is all about Giles County. They won the region last year and made it to the semifinals before meeting eventual state champ Alcoa. You can guess how that went. They will be the favorite once again in 4-AAA. Watertown moves up from 2-A. Grundy County can’t seem to get over the hump. It has been many years since we’ve seen anything close to a winning season. I’m hoping for a big turnaround for this team. Sequatchie County is coming off a six-win campaign in 2022. They were ousted by McMinn Central in the playoffs. Can they improve that record in 2023? We shall see. I do know Coach McIntyre will have his team ready to go every Friday night! Winner: Giles County, Contender: Sequatchie County

TENNESSEE 2A – REGION 4

QUAKE: Marion County finds itself in a new region for 2023. Unfortunately, that means a lot of travel for the Warriors. Marion County joins Cascade, Cannon County, Fayetteville, and Forrest. Fayetteville will be the team to beat. They have been on a mission since 2020 – winning a state championship and making deep playoff runs. Can Marion County compete? You know the Marion boys will be hungry after missing the playoffs last year. I’m not sure it will be enough. Winner: Fayetteville, Contender: Marion County

TENNESSEE 1A – REGION 3

COWBOY JOE: Chattanooga Prep joins the party in Region 3-A. Of course, this region includes the likes of South Pittsburg. South Pittsburg’s resume is well known. A season without a state championship is not good enough. Quarterback Kamden Wellington accounted for 38 touchdowns last year and will have transfer AJ Wallace to help boost an already talented offense. Whitwell will return a number of players on both sides of the ball and hope to upend their county rivals' hopes of a region title. New Sale Creek coach Jason Fitzgerald will bring a winning resume to the Panther sideline. Give him time, and the Panthers will become a team to be reckoned with. Lookout Valley bounced back from a winless season in 2021 to win five games last year. Will they improve on that mark? Will Copper Basin and Chattanooga Prep be competitive in their region games? Plenty of questions that will soon be answered. Winner: South Pittsburg, Contender: Whitwell

TSIAA – DIVISION 1

COWBOY JOE: Grace Academy’s head coach Bob Ateca can coach. He’s led his team to a state title and an eight-man national championship. Grace is coming off a six-win

season in 2022. Franklin Christian Academy will be the toughest test for the Golden Eagles. I expect a competitive Grace Academy team in 2023. Winner: Franklin Christian, Contender: Grace Academy

GEORGIA 7-AAAAA

QUAKE: This region is one of the toughest in the state of Georgia. The recent success of Calhoun and Cartersville have been remarkable. Calhoun won the region in 2022 with a 4-1 region record and an exciting road victory against Cartersville. The top 5 teams in this region averaged 32 points per game in 2022. Closer to home, the Catamounts’ third-year coach Kit Carpenter will look to return to the playoffs as they lost in the second round last year to Creekside. Returning is a ton of experience up front on the offensive line with four returning starters –Michael Nguyen, Riley Souther, Stryker Woods, and Peyton Starling. Tight ends Bannon Phalen and Jeffson Locke will be asked to make plays on offense. Replacing the quarterback is always tough, so the question is whether or not junior Ethan Long will be handed the reins to the offense. Prediction: Dalton, Hiram, and Cass all seem to be improving but every year it’s the winner of Cartersville @ Calhoun (September 29th) that will be region champs.

GEORGIA 7-AAAA

COWBOY JOE: Cedartown dominated in every aspect during the regular season but came up short in the state championship game. They lose a lot but will have plenty of athletes ready to make their own mark. Heritage is coming off an eight-win season, and coach EK Slaughter will be wanting more in 2023. The Generals will need consistent play at the quarterback position. Northwest Whitfield will have to replace long-time starting quarterback Owen Brooker. If the Bruins can find the right guy, the offense will be fine. Southeast Whitfield hopes to increase their total in the win column in 2023. Can Central-Carrolton continue their success from last year? Will Sonoraville capitalize on the skillset of quarterback Jaxon Pate? This region will be fun to watch. Winner: Cedartown, Contender: Heritage

GEORGIA 6-AAA

QUAKE: Adairsville comes in as region champs, rushing for over 4,000 yards as a team in 2022. Gone are a lot of star players from all teams, so a reboot of sorts will happen everywhere. The LaFayette Ramblers seem to have a future star with Khalas Finley, who was doing some great things before his injury last year, so getting him going is a priority. Ramblers also return AJ Thompson, a big guy that makes plays. Ringgold replaces legendary Robert Akins after 17 years as head coach for the Tigers. They give the keys to assistant coach Austin Crisp to keep the

continuity going, but the Tigers have only four returning starters on offense and will lean heavily on linemen Bryce Hart and Travis Talley. Coahulla Creek turns to Drew Carter as their new head coach. The Colts lost so many guys last year, so it will be a total rebuild for Coach Carter. The Colts will expect big things from Chase Ward and Nate Tilley on defense. Colts wide receiver Marc Solis and offensive lineman Chevy Joyce are returning starters. As for LFO coach Mac Bryan, the Warriors were 2-8 last year and are still in the middle of their rebuild. Reports are that quarterback Darian Keefe is improving greatly and will have some great Friday nights. Ridgeland was so dominant 10 or so years ago but has fallen on tough times as they went 0-10 last year. Panther tight end Parker Metcalf will be called on to make some plays to get this turned around. Prediction: Other than defending champs Adairsville, this thing is wide open for the other playoff spots. A big night will be September 22nd with Adairsville @ Ringgold and Gordon Lee @ LaFayette. Adairsville will repeat as region champs.

REGION 7-A D-I

QUAKE: Darlington’s dominance last year was impressive. Graduating seven all-region first-timers will make it more interesting this year. Trion should be the favorite to win this region. The Bulldogs return the most talent of all these teams. But let’s focus on our closest team in Dade County. The Wolverines, 3-3 in region play last year, return leading rusher Braylon Edwards along with three starters on the offensive line. Head coach Jeff Poston also returns athletes Evan Koger and Eli Kimball to help get the ball to paydirt. Defensively, one of the most physical players in this region returns in Landon Williams along with Jax Guinn to anchor a bunch that wants to be stingy about stopping the ball. Prediction: Dade County will be pretty good this year, but I think Trion returns to glory and wins the region for the first time since 2003.

REGION 7-A D-II

QUAKE: Only a three-team region in which Bowden won a state title last year but graduated a ton of talent for this season. Let’s focus on Dalton’s Christian Heritage. The Lions went big with the hiring of new head coach Frank Barden. He led Cartersville to the 1999 class AA state title. On offense, the Lions return quarterback Carter Triplett, running back Jaylon Gay, and wide receivers Charlie Idom and Donte Crowder to give Christian Heritage some offensive explosiveness. The defense will be the question, looking for young guys to step up. The Lions will lean heavily on experienced returners in linebackers Duncan Carpenter and the aforementioned Jaylon Gay. Max Moore will give experience to the defensive line. Prediction: I’m going with Christian Heritage to pull the upset on the road October 13th at Bowden to win the region.

COACH KIT CARPENTER

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

This year’s team is going to be exciting to coach. This group of young men work hard and take coaching well. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Our continued effort to get better every day. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Bannon Phelan, Jeffson Locke, Adriel Hernandez, and Andy Atangana. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Our kids’ attitudes. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Making sure we are as prepared as we can be. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

The solid effort last year’s team brought every day. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We are fortunate to have some very athletic kids on our team.

JEFFSON LOCKE

BANNON PHELAN

MICHAEL NGUYEN

STATS

COACH NAME:

Kit Carpenter (3 yrs. as a head coach, 3rd as head coach at Dalton)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 7-AAAAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 6-6

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 3rd

MASCOT: Catamounts

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 NORTH MURRAY (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 SONORAVILLE (H 8 ROCKMART (A)

15 LASSITER (H) 22 CEDARTOWN (H)

29 HIRAM (H)

OCTOBER 6 WOODLAND (A) 13 CASS (H)

20 CALHOUN (H) 27 CARTERSVILLE (A)

COACH’S VIEW

As long as our kids continue to work hard in the offseason, we will give ourselves a chance to be successful.

GA DIVISION 7-AAAAA / DALTON HIGH SCHOOL

BUBBA TANNER

RJ STOREY

STRYKER WOODS

PHOTOS BY DAN PHELAN

2023 ROSTER

DALTON HIGH SCHOOL / GA DIVISION 7-AAAAA

COACH EK SLAUGHTER

QHOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

The team has a very strong senior class full of high caliber humans and good leaders. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Staying healthy, protecting the football, causing turnovers, and generating explosive plays. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Max Owens, Miles Clark, Rhett McDonald, Tanner Hall, Brady Chandler, and Noah Pierce. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

The character of the young men on this team. They work incredibly hard, are very coachable, and have a deep desire to be great. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

The grit and resiliency of last year’s seniors. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Don’t name a fake field goal a name that sounds similar to a player’s name. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Couple of new faces, mostly similar stuff on offense and defense.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Q

Our 40 times are average, but our game speed is very fast. Our guys anticipate well and know their assignments and that speeds them up a lot. We will run fast to the ball.

BRADY CHANDLER

MAX OWENS

STATS

COACH NAME:

EK Slaughter (16 yrs. as a head coach, 10th as head coach at Heritage)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 7-AAAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 8-3

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 4th

MASCOT: Generals

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 RINGGOLD (H) 25 EAST HAMILTON (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 LFO (A) 8 RIDGELAND (A) 15 BRADLEY CENTRAL (A) 29 SOUTHEAST WHITFIELD (H)

OCTOBER 6 CEDARTOWN (A) 20 NORTHWEST WHITFIELD (H) 27 SONORAVILLE (A)

NOVEMBER 3 CENTRAL (H)

COACH’S VIEW

To the outside world, our team has 10 opportunities for success. We will focus on the greatest opponent, which is ourselves. If we can win the game inside of us and in our own program, our chances of winning a lot of games go up exponentially.

PHOTOS BY HERITAGE SNAPSHOTS

GA DIVISION 7-AAAA / HERITAGE HIGH SCHOOL

NOAH PIERCE

MILES CLARK

RHETT MCDONALD

ROSTER

COACH JOSH ROBINSON

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Strong senior leadership.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Staying healthy and defensive consistency.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Hudson Gray, Gavin Nuckolls, Myles Mays, Dominick Johnson, Caden Ramsey, and Rayvon Foster.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Strong WR group, potential game-changing QB, strong defensive line.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Special teams, injuries, DB play.

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Strong returning D-line, experience at WR, dual threat QB. Q ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

How to play on the road (six road games last year). Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

11 personnel set on offense.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Overall team speed is average; DL and WR are above average.

DAWSON WHITMORE

HUDSON GRAY

CAID COMBS

CADEN RAMSEY

STATS

COACH NAME: Josh Robinson (13 yrs. as a head coach, 13th as head coach at Northwest Whitfield)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 7-AAAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 5-5

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 5th

MASCOT: Bruins

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 PEPPERELL (H) 25 COAHULLA CREEK (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 RINGGOLD (A) 8 NORTH MURRAY (H) 18 DARLINGTON (H) 29 SONORAVILLE (H)

OCTOBER 6 SOUTHEAST WHITFIELD (A) 20 HERITAGE (A) 27 CENTRAL (H)

NOVEMBER 3 CEDARTOWN (A)

COACH’S VIEW

The 2023 schedule is a gauntlet of difficult teams. Many of them return great players. Our dual threat QB will lead the way with several weapons at WR. RB depth and more 11 personnel will be a good change of pace for the Bruins.

MYLES MAYS

CAMERON COLLINS

ISAIAH FOSTER

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORTHWEST WHITFIELD HIGH SCHOOL

GA DIVISION 7-AAAA / NORTHWEST WHITFIELD HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

NORTHWEST WHITFIELD HIGH SCHOOL / GA DIVISION 7-AAAA

COACH TODD MURRAY

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Young and enthusiastic. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Controlling the pace of the game and limiting big plays. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Jacob Layman, Ian Lively, Roberto Rios, Kaleb Padilla, and Daniel Franco.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Enthusiasm and willingness to work. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Lack of depth so we can’t afford injuries. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Work ethic and commitment to the team. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Work hard, but make sure to have fun as well. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Overall speed will be about the same. Our OL and DL will be quicker this season.

DANIEL FRANCO

KOBE JEFFERY

JOSHUA HURTADO

ROBERTO RIOS

STATS

COACH NAME: Todd Murray (4 yrs. as a head coach, 4th as head coach at Southeast Whitfield)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 7-AAAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 4-6

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 6th

MASCOT: Raiders

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 COOSA (H) 25 GORDON CENTRAL (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 GORDON LEE (A) 15 ARMUCHEE (A) 22 DRUID HILLS (H) 29 HERITAGE (A)

OCTOBER 5 NORTHWEST WHITFIELD (H) 20 CENTRAL (A) 27 CEDARTOWN (H)

NOVEMBER 3 SONORAVILLE (A)

COACH’S VIEW

Our team has gotten better each of the past three seasons. Our team is continuing to grow, so our outlook is very positive on this upcoming season.

JACOB LAYMAN

ALBERTO RIOS

TREVOR ROBERSON

PHOTOS BY HEAVENLY CRE8SHAUNS

GA DIVISION 7-AAAA / SOUTHEAST WHITFIELD HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

SOUTHEAST WHITFIELD HIGH SCHOOL / GA DIVISION 7-AAAA

COACH DREW CARTER

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Hungry to prove themselves and leave their own mark on the program.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Our role players must step in to key contributor and leadership roles.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Chase Ward, Keith Collins, Marc Solis, and Karim Bradley. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

We have a team that tasted success last season, and now they’re hungry to make that success the standard here. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

The task of replacing a number of two- and three-year starters. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Our players understand what type of preparation it takes to be a playoff team. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Only small changes to our schemes to best fit our players.

MARC SOLIS

KARIM BRADLEY

STATS

COACH NAME:

Drew Carter (1 yr. as a head coach, 1st as head coach at Coahulla Creek)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 6-AAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 7-4

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 3rd

MASCOT: Colts

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 MURRAY CO. (A)

25 NORTHWEST WHITFIELD (A)

SEPTEMBER 8 CHATTOOGA (A)

15 RIDGELAND (A)

22 LFO (H)

29 GORDON LEE (A)

OCTOBER 5 RINGGOLD (H)

20 BREMEN (A)

27 LAFAYETTE (H)

NOVEMBER 3 ADAIRSVILLE (H)

COACH’S VIEW

Every opportunity is on the table for us. I think that we can be a tough matchup in our region. It will come down to how our leaders develop and how we handle adversity. A lot of our success will depend on how good of a job our coaching staff can do in building depth and catering our schemes to our best playmakers. After that, it comes down to our players making plays when they have the opportunity.

NATE TILLEY

JESUS VIEYRA

PHOTOS BY JAKE MCGILL AND PAUL THRESS PHOTOGRAPHY

GA DIVISION 6-AAA / COAHULLA CREEK HIGH SCHOOL

COAHULLA CREEK HIGH SCHOOL / GA DIVISION 6-AAA

2023 ROSTER

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A Hardworking.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A Maturity.

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A Jackson Biggs, Michael Branam, Ben Gilliam, and Brody Hickman.

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

Depth at skill positions.

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A Injuries. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A Team chemistry. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A Execute all four quarters.

Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A Yes. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We will have good team speed at every position.

COACH JOSH GROCE

BEN GILLIAM

BRODY HICKMAN

CORBIN KEITH

STATS

COACH NAME: Josh Groce (5 yrs. as a head coach, 5th as head coach at Gordon Lee)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 6-AAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 4-6

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 5th

MASCOT: Trojans

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 TRION (A) 25 ARMUCHEE (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 SOUTHEAST WHITFIELD (H) 15 BREMEN (A) 22 LAFAYETTE (A) 29 COAHULLA CREEK (H)

OCTOBER 6 LFO (H) 20 ADAIRSVILLE (H) 27 RIDGELAND (A)

NOVEMBER 3 RINGGOLD (H)

COACH’S VIEW

How well this team matures throughout this summer will have a lot to do with their opportunities for success. We will have lots of underclassmen playing crucial roles. Excitement was great throughout spring practice. If we can keep that excitement, we should have a great summer!

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GORDON LEE HIGH SCHOOL

GA DIVISION 6-AAA / GORDON LEE HIGH SCHOOL

COLTON BAKER

MICHAEL BRANAM

JACKSON BRIGGS

2023 ROSTER

GORDON LEE HIGH SCHOOL / GA DIVISION 6-AAA

COACH ANDY SCOTT

QHOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM?

AThis year’s team has much more depth at each position. We played a lot of underclassmen the last two years, and all those players are now juniors and seniors.

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS?

The biggest key to our success will be focusing on being more productive offensively and limiting our big plays on defense. Q

A

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM?

Dawson Pendergrass, AJ Thompson, Micheal Hamilton, Bryar Hartline, Noah Johnson, Dawson Losh, and Khalas Finley.

A

QWHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM?

AJust the total number of players in our program. In three years, we have been able to build our numbers each year by focusing on building our youth programs. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR?

We played a ton of inexperienced players last year; this year, all those players are much more mature. They are also bigger, faster, and stronger. Q

A

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR?

The importance of doing the best with what you have. We had a ton of injuries last year at some very critical positions. Our coaches and players knew we had concerns but came to work each and every day and found ways to grow and improve our program. We won two out of our last three because of this attitude.

A

JUDE GODFREY

DAWSON PENDERGRASS

STATS

COACH NAME: Andy Scott (14 yrs. as a head coach, 3rd as head coach at LaFayette)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 6-AAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 3-7

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 6th

MASCOT: Ramblers

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 CHATTOOGA (H)

25 TRION (A)

SEPTEMBER 8 SONORAVILLE (A)

15 RINGGOLD (A)

22 GORDON LEE (H)

29 ADAIRSVILLE (A)

OCTOBER 6 BREMEN (H)

20 LFO (A)

27 COAHULLA CREEK (A)

NOVEMBER 3 RIDGELAND (H)

COACH’S VIEW

This year’s Rambler team will be much more competitive than in years past based on the growth of the overall program. The coaching staff has worked tirelessly on improving this program from the inside out. The coaches and players have worked extremely hard in the weight room and in our speed training to develop our players’ athletic potential. Looking forward to seeing this season and seeing our boys compete.

PORTER SENTELL KHALAS FINLEY

PHOTOS BY RAMBLER MEDIA

GA DIVISION 6-AAA / LAFAYETTE HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

LISTEN TO EVERYTHING FROM TODAY’S ARTISTS TO THE CLASSICS INCLUDING KANE BROWN, LUKE COMBS, BLAKE SHELTON, MORGAN WALLEN, GARTH BROOKS, BROOKS AND DUNN, AND REBA!

COACH MAC BRYAN

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

We will be extremely young this year. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

The growth and development of our young guys. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Wyatt Maye, Payton Simpson, Levi Harwell, Darian Keefe, and Jared Mitchell. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

We have a solid group of returners and look to continue to grow in our new systems. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Our depth and experience. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

Second season under a new staff, so the kids will continue to learn our systems and develop. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

The weight room has to matter. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

We lost some speed with the graduating class, but we hope to replenish that with the young guys we have coming in. The offensive and defensive skill positions should be quick.

DARIAN KEEFE

PAYTON SIMPSON

LEVI HARWELL

STATS

COACH NAME: Mac Bryan (27 yrs. as a head coach, 2nd as head coach at LFO)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 6-AAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 2-8

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 7th

MASCOT: Warriors

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 GILMER (A) 25 MURRAY CO. (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 HERITAGE (H) 15 ADAIRSVILLE (A) 22 COAHULLA CREEK (A) 29 RIDGELAND (H)

OCTOBER 6 GORDON LEE (A) 20 LAFAYETTE (H) 27 RINGGOLD (A)

NOVEMBER 3 BREMEN (H)

COACH’S VIEW

Our overall schedule is a gauntlet, and in Region 6-AAA, there are a lot of good coaches and tough teams to play week in and week out. We have to come to play each and every week of the season against good competition. With our staff and players having now been together for a full year, we hope to improve our last year’s results.

WYATT MAYE

PHOTOS BY CHARLIE QUALLS JR. PHOTOGRAPHY

GA DIVISION 6-AAA / LAKEVIEW-FORT OGLETHORPE HIGH SCHOOL

JARED MITCHELL

2023 ROSTER

COACH CRAIG PRITCHETT

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Excited and hungry to turn things around. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

The team continuing to develop in key areas. Belief and confidence in a great off-season. Executing on Friday nights. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Kain Brown, Javen Lewis, Hayden Kerr, Braylon Pritchett, and Parker Metcalf. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

A great off-season in the weight room. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Things we cannot control. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

A lot of young players got some great experience. Hopefully that experience along with some tremendous growth in the weight room will pay off for us. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

We’ve got work to do. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

A bigger, faster, stronger, more confident team.

KAIN BROWN

JAVEN LEWIS

SETH BROADOUS DEMETREE BATES

STATS

COACH NAME: Craig Pritchett (9 yrs. as a head coach, 2nd as head coach at Ridgeland)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 6-AAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 0-10

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 8th

MASCOT: Panthers

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 25 NORTH COBB CHRISTIAN (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 NORTH MURRAY (A) 8 HERITAGE (H)

15 COAHULLA CREEK (H) 22 BREMEN (H)

29 LFO (A)

OCTOBER 6 ADAIRSVILLE (A) 20 RINGGOLD (A)

27 GORDON LEE (H)

NOVEMBER 3 LAFAYETTE (A)

COACH’S VIEW

Our team needs to find a way to win. Once we taste some success, I feel the whole dynamic will take off in a hurry. Players have worked hard in the offseason. There is a lot of excitement and a lot of experience returning. Belief times work equals endless possibilities. We should be able to compete with teams that we were outmatched by quite a bit last season.

HAYDEN KERR

PARKER METCALF

BRAYLON PRITCHETT

PHOTOS BY BAMBARA AVEN PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC AND CHLOE TREDY

GA DIVISION 6-AAA / RIDGELAND HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

COACH AUSTIN CRISP

QWHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS?

Continuing our process of creating a championship mindset with a WE > ME culture. Striving to be the best in the weight room, on the field, and in the classroom. Q

A

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Braxton Holtcamp, Nolan Burchfield, Hudson Moss, Travis Talley, and Alijah Bradberry.

QWHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM?

Our kids are responding extremely well in the weight room and bringing energy daily to workouts and morning conditioning. We have some very athletic skill kids and an experienced offensive line.

A

Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

We learned our players have GRIT. We were in a lot of close games that were dogfights, and our kids didn’t back down, they just kept COMPETING! Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

We think our competitive nature really showed throughout the season. We will continue to build on competing play-to-play. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

We will be very similar to last year on both sides of the ball. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED?

We have the capability of being sneaky fast. Between our secondary and receivers, we have kids that can go.

A

ALIJAH BRADBERRY

TRAVIS TALLEY

NOLAN BURCHFIELD

STATS

COACH NAME:

Austin Crisp (1 yr. as a head coach, 1st as head coach at Ringgold)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 6-AAA

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 7-4

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 2nd

MASCOT: Tigers

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 HERITAGE (A)

SEPTEMBER 1 NORTHWEST WHITFIELD (H)

8 GILMER (A)

15 LAFAYETTE (H)

22 ADAIRSVILLE (H)

29 BREMEN (A)

OCTOBER 5 COAHULLA CREEK (A) 20 RIDGELAND (H)

27 LFO (H)

NOVEMBER 3 GORDON LEE (A)

COACH’S VIEW

Between our non-region and region schedule, every game will be a dogfight. Fortunately, our guys have been in those types of games before. Week in and week out we play some very tough teams. We are playing a few AAAA teams to prepare us for a tough region. If we can compete in those games, we should be prepared for our region.

HUDSON MOSS

PHOTOS BY RINGGOLD TIGER SHOTS

GA DIVISION 6-AAA / RINGGOLD HIGH SCHOOL

BRAXTON HOLTCAMP

2023 ROSTER

RINGGOLD HIGH SCHOOL / GA DIVISION 6-AAA

COACH JEFF POSTON

QHOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

Talented and eager to compete for a region championship. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

Depth is always a factor for us, but we are also looking for a few new contributors on each side of the ball. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Landon Williams, Braylon Sullivan, Caleb Massey, Eli Kimball, and Jax Guinn. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

We have a good group of kids returning on defense and this group of seniors is extremely focused. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

Figuring out our quarterback situation. We have two really talented kids who will battle it out for the starting spot. Q

WHAT CAN YOU BUILD ON FROM LAST YEAR? A

We have eight defensive starters back from last year. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Not really, we will be staying the same scheme-wise.

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Q

Slower than we want to be, but faster than most people think we are.

BRAYLON SULLIVAN

CAROLINE TREMMIER

ABIGAIL TREMMIER

STATS

COACH NAME:

Jeff Poston (4 yrs. as a head coach, 4th as head coach at Dade Co.)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 7-A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 6-5

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 4th

MASCOT: Wolverines

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 ATHENS ACADEMY (A) 25 MARION CO. (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 NORTH SAND MOUNTAIN (H) 15 BOWDON (H) 22 DARLINGTON (A) 29 TRION (H)

OCTOBER 13 COOSA (A) 20 CHATTOOGA (H) 27 PEPPERELL (A)

NOVEMBER 3 ARMUCHEE (H)

COACH’S VIEW

We have a great group of seniors and juniors who are committed to doing all the right things in the off-season. We have a legitimate shot to compete for a region championship if we can stay healthy in key spots. This team has an opportunity to accomplish some things that have never been done here. The goal is to eat breakfast after practice on Thanksgiving Day. If we can do that, then we have had a good year.

LANDON WILLIAMS

CALEB MASSEY

JAX GUINN

PHOTOS BY BRENT COOPER

GA DIVISION 7-A / DADE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER

COACH FRANK BARDEN

QHOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE THIS YEAR’S TEAM? A

This year’s team will be young but very exciting to watch and will work hard to put a good product on the field. Q

WHAT WILL BE THE KEYS TO YOUR SUCCESS? A

We want to be a team that prepares well and plays with great character each Friday night. Q

WHO WILL BE YOUR KEY LEADERS ON THE TEAM? A

Carson Russell, Carter Triplett, Jaylon Gay, Max Moore, and Duncan Carpenter. Q

WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST REASONS FOR OPTIMISM? A

We have a great group of players and coaches that work each day to do things the right way. Q

WHAT WILL KEEP YOU UP AT NIGHT? A

If we are not having fun playing this game. Q

ANY LESSONS LEARNED FROM LAST YEAR? A

Taking the mindset of playing and preparing for each game one week at a time. Q

WILL WE SEE ANYTHING DIFFERENT THIS YEAR? A

Differences with the new staff, but overall, the brand of playing hard will continue to be our main focus. Q

HOW WOULD YOU CHARACTERIZE YOUR TEAM’S SPEED? A

Our team speed and level of playing hard as a unit will be key each week.

JAYLON GAY

DUNCAN CARPENTER

STATS

COACH NAME:

Frank Barden (29 yrs. as a head coach, 1st as head coach at Christian Heritage)

DIVISION/REGION: GA 7-A

2022 OVERALL RECORD: 5-7

2022 DISTRICT FINISH: 1st

MASCOT: Lions

2023 SCHEDULE

AUGUST 18 NORTH COBB CHRISTIAN (A) 25 TEMPLE (H)

SEPTEMBER 1 DARLINGTON (H) 15 PICKENS (H)

22 ST. FRANCIS (A) 29 ENSWORTH (H)

OCTOBER 6 MT. PISGAH CHRISTIAN (A) 13 BOWDON (A)

20 ASHEVILLE CHRISTIAN (H) 27 MT. ZION (H)

COACH’S VIEW

The 2023 CHS Lions will be a team that grows and gets better each week. Playing with the mindset to operate at a high level on and off the field. Choosing to work and play as a team with a common goal and purpose. Our team’s success will come from inside each player and coach with the way we approach each day as a team.

CARTER TRIPLETT

MAX MOORE

PHOTOS BY TOMMY TRIPLETT

GA DIVISION 7-A / CHRISTIAN HERITAGE SCHOOL

2023 ROSTER