Kickoff Magazine 2019

2019

GUIDE TO FOOTBALL IN

CHILTON COUNTY

Schedules, rosters, photos, analysis, bands and cheerleaders

Advertiser The Clanton

LJ's Boutique and Durbin Farms Market wish the Best of Luck to all of

our Local High School Football Teams!

The lineup

ON THE COVER: Isabella’s Cole Atchison, Maplesville’s Ryan Morrow and Chilton County’s Shi-Keem Laister

TEAM ANALYSES

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Maplesville Isabella Chilton County Jemison

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Verbena Billingsley Thorsby

TEAM ANALYSES

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Best at each position Games to watch

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KICKOFF 2019

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Maplesville

RED DEVILS COUNTY’S LEADING RUSHER RETURNS FOR MORE Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

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yan Morrow is primed and ready to help carry the load on the offensive side of the ball for Maplesville.

Morrow was the leading rusher in Chilton County in 2018 and was the only back to surpass 1,000 yards during the regular season.

He touted an impressive 10.3 yards per carry and his nearest competition was his then-teammate Christin Brown.

Expect much of the same even after Brown’s graduation.

What makes Morrow so special with the ball in his hands is his combination of speed and physicality.

He can bring the crowd to its feet with an electrifying 85-yard touchdown

run in the open field or by bowling over defenders inside the red zone.

“I see myself as a balanced back,” Morrow said.

“I can do some juking or I can run you over. Whatever my instincts tell me to do.”

Although he is naturally gifted, his success also comes from years of hard work and spending a dedicated amount of time in the weight room.

The fact that the Red Devils hired from within with the promotion of defensive coordinator Brad Abbott to head coach allows for a certain consistency to remain in place within the program.

“We won’t have to change the offense at all,” Morrow said.

It’s clear that Morrow’s stats speak for themselves, which makes sense why

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Oct. 4: Ellwood Christian* (homecoming) Oct. 11: Isabella* Oct. 18: Open Oct. 24: Francis Marion* Nov. 1: Lamar County *region game

2-minute drill MAPLESVILLE 2019 SCHEDULE CLASS 1A, REGION 3 2019 SCHEDULE Aug. 23: Fultondale Aug. 30: Open Sept. 6: at A.L. Johnson* Sept. 13: Linden* Sept. 20: at Keith* Sept. 27: Reeltown

he would choose to let his performance lead the way instead of his words.

“I’m not a vocal person,” Morrow said. “With me it’s more about leading by example.”

Morrow has been playing football since he was 5 years old and has been lined up in the backfield the entire time.

2018 RESULTS at Fultondale (won, 35-17) A.L. Johnson (won, 70-6) at Linden (loss, 38-27) Keith (won, 57-0) at Reeltown (won, 34-14) Ellwood Christian (won, 70-6) at Isabella (won, 32-0) Holy Spirit (won, 56-21) at Francis Marion (won, 56-22) at Lamar County (won, 49-28) PLAYOFFS Sweet Water (won, 35-12) at Georgiana (won, 21-14) Lanett (won, 29-6)

According to Morrow, it just seemed to be a fit.

His favorite part of being a running back is the opportunity to score and hear the roar of the crowd shortly after crossing the goal line.

He scored 17 touchdowns on the ground during the regular season last year.

Ladder drills and other

at Linden (loss, 16-8) SEASON OUTLOOK Things will look a little differently during the 2019 season without Brent Hubbert patrolling the sideline for the first time in more than a decade.

However, despite the initial shock the Red Devils have seemed to pick things right back up where they were and seem poised for yet another deep playoff run with longtime assistant Brad Abbott now at the helm.

Jackson Abbott returns at quarterback and will have the luxary of being able to hand off the ball to a dynamic trio of backs that includes seniors Ryan Morrow and Kalyn Hardy, as well as junior speedster Latrell Wilson who will provide

footwork exercises are common among Morrow’s training regiment.

“It’s a continuous routine,” Morrow said.

Morrow has seen his body grow since he first joined the football team as a seventh grader and credited the school’s strength and conditioning program.

“They started us off early,” Morrow said.

Even though he is a senior, he understands that there are always things to learn that can help improve his game.

“I’m learning all the

an explosive change of pace option.

“That boy’s [Wilson] fast,” Morrow said.

Maplesville has some decent size along the front line and should be able to hold their own among the trenches on both sides of the ball.

Seniors Noah Walls, Dorian Heard and Gavin Jones should provide the necessary holes for Morrow and company to run through.

“It feels good having the spotlight on our [senior] class,” Morrow said. “We’ve got to be very aware of the situation.”

On defense, Maplesville lost some key contributors in the linebacker corps and the secondary, so expect to see some new and youthful faces learning as they go among those units.

time,” Morrow said. “Even when the coach is not talking to me, you can look around and see what else you can learn from the other positions.”

He is just the latest in a long line of running backs that have stepped onto the field at George Walker Jr. Stadium donning the maroon and white.

It is a tradition that Morrow has embraced throughout his time at the school and is anxious to be part of it for one more season.

“There was a lot of pressure to see who the next

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KICKOFF 2019

back would be, especially after he [Terence Dunlap] left,” Morrow said.

For Morrow, the pressure quickly turned into carries, which led to a ton of yards and an overflow of offensive production.

Although Morrow also plays basketball and performs track and field, it is football that has always held a special place in his heart.

“Football has always been my dream,” Morrow said. “I’ve always wanted to play on the next level.”

Members of Morrow’s family have gone on to play in the NFL, and he hopes to one day follow in their footsteps.

Although he has high hopes for what the future holds, Morrow is also aware that there will be added emotions throughout this year as it will be the last of his high school career.

“It’s flown by,” Morrow said. “It seems like just yesterday that I was getting ready to start in junior high.”

One of the things that Morrow will never forget is the feeling of playing in front of what feels like the entire town during home games.

“Everybody just comes together,” Morrow said.

“When it’s football season, everyone is family.” n

MAPLESVILLE 2019 CHEERLEADERS Emily Smitherman, Gracie Harrison, Avery Reed, Emilee Smith, Allison Giles, Hannah Chambers, Haven Smith, Jaycie Armstrong Emma Anderson

KICKOFF 2019

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MAPLESVILLE 2019 ROSTER 2 5 6 8 10 11 12 14 15 17

Jacob Hollis Jr. Peyton Cook Fr. Latrell Wilson Jr. Jackson Abbott Jr. Brady Harrison So. Troy McMillan Fr. Cole Gray So. Timber Lenoir Jr. Jordon Lee Jr. Hayden Dyer So.

19 20 21 22 24 27 30 32 35 36

Dalton Carter Fr. Ajayla Robinson Sr. Kayln Hardy Fr. Evan Harrison Fr. Joseph Johnson So. Ryan Morrow Sr. Brandon Pickle Jr. Caleb Hobbs Jr. Taylor Sheffield Jr. Corey Stephens Sr.

44 51 52 54 55 57 60 61 65 66

Johnthan Mckinnon Sr. Noah Walls Sr. Jacob Johnson Jr. Dorian Heard Sr. Adolphus Harris So. Osvaldo Tapia Jr. Christopher Lambert Fr. Cordell Crosby Jr. Kristopher Grooms Fr. Gavin Jones Sr.

70 75 77 78 79

Jackson Harrison Fr. Mason Poe Fr. Trevon Blackmon So. Austin Johnson So. Richard Buckner Fr.

Head Coach Brad Abbott - first season

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2019 Maplesville Football Team

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Isabella

MUSTANGS ATCHISON GETS HIS SHOT BEHIND CENTER Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

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ole Atchison has been waiting his turn to be the starting for the Isabella Mustangs and that time has finally come.

He looks to make the most of his opportunity as one of the leaders of an offense that looks to make strides in production in 2019.

Atchison has sat behind Jaqarise Stacy and Jarrett Baker over the past couple of seasons, while continuing to find ways to help the team by spending time in the backfield.

According to Atchison, he always tried to be conscience of using the time he spent as a backup quarterback wisely and was able to learn a lot, especially from Stacy.

“I really looked up to him [Stacy],” Atchison said. “I think I’m ready.”

Starting at quarterback his senior year of high school has been a goal of Atchison’s since he first started playing the position in eighth grade.

He played his first competitive game when he was 6 years old.

According to Atchison, the passing game is something that he wants to see improve and he believes that the talent is there to do so.

“We’re trying to get that [passing game] locked down this year,” Atchison said. “This past summer I’ve felt more comfortable with the routes.”

He has shown the ability in recent years to be a dangerous threat rushing the ball, which should allow for the Mustangs coaching staff to have a dual-threat approach when calling plays.

“I feel like this set of receivers is probably the best that we’ve had in a while,” Atchison said.

Sophomore Braxden Giles and senior Kendall Reeves both pose deep threats and the ability to stretch the secondary, which is a quarterback’s dream.

“We’ve already built up our relationship, and I know they can catch,” Atchison said.

Other than a quarterback’s bond with his receivers, the trust he has in his offensive line is also extremely important.

With that in mind, it seems only fitting that Atchison’s best friend is Isabella starting center and fellow senior Brandon Evans.

Not only are Atchison and Evans best buds, but they also live together, which probably means that football is a popular topic within the household.

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KICKOFF 2019

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ISABELLA 2019 ROSTER 2 3 4 5 7 9 11 12 14 15 16

Austin Jones Jr. Braxden Giles So. J.J. Wilson So. Drevon Lee 8th Zack Chapman Fr. Lance Price Sr. Jake Logan Jr. Ray Boston So. Cole Atchison Sr. Nick Simmons Jr. Eric McNatt Jr.

There is no doubt that head coach Tate Leonard has revived the IHS football program with success on the scoreboard and increased interest among the students and the community.

Atchison acknowledged that without Leonard’s addition things would be much different for both he and the program.

“My ninth grade year I was going to move to Maplesville until he [Leonard] came,” Atchison

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Kendall Reeves Sr. Ben Martin Jr. Brayan Dominguez So. Isaiah Tillis Fr. Justin Littlefield Jr. Landon Horton Fr. Judah Day Fr. Dalton Mims Sr. Reid Mitchell Jr. Ethan Taylor Fr. Phillip Williams So.

said. “Since he came it has flipped the whole football program around. He has all his trust in his players.”

One of the biggest components Leonard introduced to help spark life into the Isabella program was a new offensive approach, which Atchison will now be saddled with leading.

Having spent time playing in the backfield in recent years, Atchison understands the impact that group of guys can have on the upcoming season, espe-

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Anthony Fjeldstad Jr. Brett Johnson Jr. Lucca Biancalana So. Caleb Washington So. Brandon Evans Sr. Conner Bright So. Falcon Fowler 8th Kaleb Brasher Jr. Austin Headley So. Skyler Langford So. Issac Day Jr.

cially fellow senior Lance Price who will be leaned on to get the tough yards and keep the chains moving.

Since taking over the full-time quarterback duties he quickly gained an even deeper respect for the members of the Isabella secondary after continually throwing against them in practice.

“Our secondary is hard to throw against,” Atchison said. “I wouldn’t want to be the quarterback on the other team.”

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Kaden Lawley Jr. Brodie Leonard Fr. Chase Hilton Jr. Logan Littleton So. Kyler Morris Jr. Logan Murray So. Iverson England Jr.

Head Coach Tate Leonard - fourth season (27-8)

One of the individual goals includes reaching 1,000 rushing yards, while a state championship tops the list of team goals.

Becoming more of a vocal leader is something Atchison has worked on in recent years. He plans to take that even a step further this year.

Although he has spent time as a two-way player at linebacker in the past, this year the plan is for him to focus solely on the intricacies of the quarterback position. n

PLAYOFFS at Marengo (loss, 58-20)

2-minute drill CLASS 1A, REGION 3 2019 SCHEDULE Aug. 30: Billingsley Sept. 6: Francis Marion* Sept. 13: at A.L. Johnson* Sept. 20: Linden* Sept. 27: at Thorsby Oct. 4: at Keith* Oct. 11: at Maplesville* Oct. 18: Ellwood Christian* (homecoming) Oct. 25: Open Nov. 1: Verbena *region game 2018 RESULTS at Billingsley (won, 41-8) at Francis Marion (won, 35-16) A.L. Johnson (won, 53-0) at Linden (loss, 32-0) Thorsby (loss, 22-12) Keith (won, 36-20) Maplesville (loss, 32-0) Ellwood Christian (won, 81-0) at Holy Spirit (won, 34-31) at Verbena (won, 47-6)

SEASON OUTLOOK Isabella has averaged nine wins over the past three seasons since Tate Leonard took over as head coach.

However, despite the wins the one thing still missing is a region championship.

The Mustangs have a pair of runner-ups and a third place finish in the region standings.

It is the obvious next step to conquer as Isabella continues to grow the program into a consistent force to be reckoned with at the state level.

The schedule will have several tests along the way that will surely measure the moxy of the Mustangs.

New starting quarterback Cole Atchison understands that in order to make it through the 2019 gauntlet unscathed is to enter the season with a game-by-game mindset each week.

All signs point to Isabella trending upward, especially on offense, where Atchison will have the luxury of being surrounded by an arsenal full of potential playmakers.

“The younger guys on the team have grown up and really act beyond their age,” Atchison said. “I have no doubts about the abilities on our team.”

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ISABELLA 2019 CHEERLEADERS Sophia Adams, Lacey Batson, Trinity Cox, Anna Doroteo, Danielle Gilliland, Cadence Headley, Lexci Jones, Madison King, Maggie Noah, Katelyn Smitherman

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KICKOFF 2019

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Chilton County

TIGERS LAISTER RACKS UP YARDS, OFFERS Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

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hi-Keem Laister begins his second season as Chilton County High School’s starting quarterback.

He looks to continue to grow his game while leaving an even deeper positive mark on the football program as a whole.

One of the biggest differences that Laister has seen from his junior to senior year is a growing self-trust and belief that he can make the plays when it matters most.

“Coach tells me all the time that I’m a lot better than I think I am,” Laister said. “I’m just trying to be the best leader and player for my team. I’ve worked on being more vocal, and I feel like that’s going to help a lot this year.”

That confidence is especially important for a position such as quarterback, where split-decisions are constantly being made.

Laister’s initial taste of quarterback play was when he tried out for the position in seventh grade.

“Since then I’ve really stuck with it,” Laister said. “The quarterback’s

always get too much credit or not enough. It’s been important to stay humble and keep my head on straight and not listen to all the outside noise because that’s always going to be there.”

He has continued to work on his passing technique. Opening up the passing game is the next logical step for the offense to take.

The threat to score quickly escalates when Laister escapes from the pocket. He has a unique comfortability when plays break down and his legs pose an obvious dual threat.

According to Laister, when opposing defenses are focused on his running ability it takes some of the pressure off of the rest of the backs on the roster, which makes for a stronger offense as a whole.

Playing quarterback has given Laister an increased respect for the role that the offensive line plays in overall offensive success.

“They protect me, so I have a special place in my heart for those guys,” Laister said.

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CCHS 2019 BAND Vivian Sierra, Josh Evans, Rhiannon Langston, Hannah Lynch, Selene Sublett, Chyenne Williams, Lucy Leyva, Gala Romero, Logan Cleckler, Ayla Powell, Amanda Williams, Zoe Cleckler, Kayla Marsh, Lindsey Popwell, Andrew Simpson, Lyric Vironet, Isabella Lindquist, Alyssa Leach, Zachary Atkins, Peyton Adams, Kadence Brown, Peyton Pike, Kristen Stamps, Randy Gassaway, Anna Marie Cleckler, Amanda Richeson, Lynn Stamps, Kenneth Hayes, Matthew Williams, Emma Brown, Raidon Lindquist, Joey Milks, Beth Bishop, Patrick Ramsey, Jackie Shi, Steven McDonald, Joshua Atkins, Stephen Reynolds, Dezaraye Loper, Matthew Simpson, Alex Leach, Malachi Tyus, John Green, Andrew Robinson

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KICKOFF 2019

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CCHS 2019 CHEERLEADERS Hallie Ousley, Kailee Williams, Lydia Patterson, Claea Bice, Grace Nolen, Jada Neal, Maddy Barrington, Lily Newton, Alyssa Zeigler, Cameron McGhar, Maddie Giles, Clarissa Mullins, Ashley Minor, Mia Deason, Haley Hill, Emma Kate Locke, Halle Sullivan, Annabel Mullinax

KICKOFF 2019

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He feels like the connection between him and his receivers has seamless thanks in large part to the relationships they share off the field.

“Most of those guys out there [wide receivers] are some of my best friends,” Laister said. “That alone helps with how we’ll do on the field because we know each others habits.”

A couple of games that Laister is looking forward to during the 2019 season include homecoming and the annual battle against rival Jemison.

“Those are always fun games,” Laister said.

He started playing competitive football when he was 4 years old.

“It’s kind of a funny story because you’re not really supposed to play until little later,” Laister said.

“They put me out there

Antonio Chavez

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KICKOFF 2019

THURSDAY

MON-SAT

Margarita Night

Happy Hour Everyday 3-6

to get a feel of it and then I started really playing it when I was 5 years old.”

In many ways football is in the DNA of Laister’s family. His uncle played in the NFL. “Their really passionate about football, and I think that helps a lot in forming what I expect out of myself,” Laister said.

An abundant number of universities have shown interest and have offered him scholarships based on his abilities on and off the field.

That number of scholarship offers rose to 15 midway through the summer.

That total is expected to continue to climb during the season.

“I really didn’t expect for all of this to be going on, but it’s been an exciting time,” Laister said.

Oct. 18: Marbury* (homecoming) Oct. 25: at Demopolis* Nov. 1: Alexandria *region game

2-minute drill CLASS 5A, REGION 3 2019 SCHEDULE Aug. 23: at Stanhope Elmore Aug. 30: at Sylacauga Sept. 6: Shelby County* Sept. 13: Central Tuscaloosa* Sept. 20: at Jemison* Sept. 27: Benjamin Russell Oct. 4: Open Oct. 11: at Bibb County*

“Every kid doesn’t get the opportunity to talk to these big-time schools. I’m blessed to be at the point

2018 RESULTS Stanhope Elmore (loss, 4614) Sylacauga (loss, 20-13) at Shelby County (won, 34-0) at Central Tuscaloosa (won, 29-26) Jemison (won, 23-14) at Benjamin Russell (loss, 23-13) Bibb County (loss, 34-21) at Marbury (won, 28-0) Demopolis (loss, 38-17) at Alexandria (loss, 4235) PLAYOFFS at Jackson (loss, 20-14 OT)

where I’m at.”

Not only does Laister’s recognition promote himself as an individual, but it

SEASON OUTLOOK The Chilton County Tigers made the playoffs for the first time in five years last season, which means the goal heading into 2019 is to maintain the success and get back.

“There’s definitely a different energy within the whole community,” CCHS quarterback Shi-Keem Laister said.

“At school kids were excited because we were winning games. People just want to be involved.”

CCHS is looking to replace 18 seniors, but have a lot of talent returning on the roster.

Sergio Romero-Rodriguez and Phillip Guin will both be key players on the defensive side of the ball, while Laister, Devonte Robinson and Justin Liveoak are an explosive triple threat on offense.

also helps get the Chilton County program on the radar of these college coaching staffs.

“Last year’s team did a great job of showing how things should work,” Laister said.

The Tigers started fast last season with a three-game winning streak in the month of September. However, they lost four of their final five regular season contests.

Putting together a complete season with an equally strong start and finish will definitely be an objective moving forward.

Despite the bumpy finish, Chilton County carries momentum into 2019 after a highly contested overtime loss in the playoffs to end last season.

“We’ve learned how to compete and coach [Tal] Morrison has taught us how to play in those big games,” Laister said.

“Now it’s about building off of that so that the program takes yet another step forward.”

“I want other people to follow their dream and be recognized from our school as well,” Laister said. n

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CCHS 2019 ROSTER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 16 17 18

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Dalton Patterson Sr. Lawson Patterson Sr. JaKobi Albert So. Austin Cooedy So. Leo Coradi So. Kevin Staffney So. Sam Smith So. Cannon Miller Fr. Kevonte Robinson Sr. Shi Keem Laister Sr. Britten Worral So. Justin Liveoak Sr. Cordell Baker So. Devonte Robinson Sr. Antonio Parker Sr. Jaylon Knox So.

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Brian Giacobbe Sr. Jaberrius Peake Jr. Brody Smitherman Jr. Robert Buchanan Jr. Rashard Childers Fr. Taveous Good So. Lawson Powell Fr. David Threatt Jr. Tramon Wright Fr. JaTavious Smith Jr. Travon Bostic Jr. Carter Emmerich Fr. Konnor Kim Fr. Daniel Corona Fr. Sawyer Collum So. Ben Shirah Jr.

42 43 44 45 46 47 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 59 61

Russell Rhodes Sr. Cayden Anderson Fr. Sergio Romero-Rodriguez Sr. Phillip Guin Sr. Juwan McMillan Sr. Tristin Yarenko Fr. Bradley Mims Sr. Mason Cox Sr. Darius Nix So. Dkota Oden So. Jackson Tuell Fr. Herman Hinojosa Fr. Cole Bates So. M.J. Spigner So. Rickey Edwards Fr. Daelin Martin Jr.

62 63 65 66 70 72 73 76 78 82 89

Isaiah Davidson Fr. William Martin Sr. James Hester Jr. Austin Evans Fr. Braden Cleckler Jr. D.J. Argo Fr. Tray Maywell So. Jerry Lee Sr. Garrett Connell Sr. Angel Lopez Fr. Aaron Ryan Sr.

Head Coach Tal Morrison - third season (5-16)

John Hollis Jackson • Hollis Jackson • Joshua Inman

Cole Robinson

crobinson@baughford.com

KICKOFF 2019

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CHILTON COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

CHILTON COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL 2019 VARSITY CHEERLEADERS

Best Wishes o 2019 Footba

- From the City of Clanton, the Mayo

HOOL 2019 VARSITY FOOTBALL TEAM

es on a Great tball Season

e Mayor and its council members

CHILTON COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL 2019 MARCHING BAND

PLAYERS TO WATCH OFFENSE

DEFENSE

QUARTERBACK:

DEFENSIVE LINE:

Shi Keem Laister, CCHS, Senior

Sergio Romero-Rodriguez, CCHS, Senior

Cole Atchison, Isabella, Senior

Anthony Fjeldstad, Isabella, Junior

Jackson Abbott, Maplesville, Junior

Noah Walls, Maplesville, Senior

Daniel Martin, Jemison, Senior

Brady Watson, Thorsby, Senior

RUNNING BACK:

LINEBACKER:

Ryan Morrow, Maplesville, Senior

Phillip Guin, CCHS, Senior

Taylor Arington, Billingsley, Senior

Dalton Mims, Isabella, Senior

Noah Gilliland, Jemison, Senior

Brent Jones, Thorsby, Junior

Devonte Robinson, CCHS, Senior

Reid Mitchell, Isabella, Junior

RECEIVER:

DEFENSIVE BACK:

Tucker Patterson, Thorsby, Senior

Ajala Robinson, Maplesville, Senior

Braxden Giles, Isabella, Sophomore

Jacob Lockhart, Thorsby, Senior

Justin Liveoak, CCHS, Senior

Jake Logan, Isabella, Junior

Kendall Reeves, Isabella, Senior

Jahvon Simon, Jemison, Senior

OFFENSIVE LINE: Colin Tillery, Jemison, Senior Dorian Heard, Maplesville, Senior Branden Evans, Isabella, Senior Kobe Davis, Thorsby, Senior

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Sales, Service, Parts.

Sales, Service, Parts.

MUST WATCH HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL GAMES OF 2019 Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

E

very football season there are certain games that make an impression when looking at the schedule.

These are the games that players, coaches and fans live for and one of the main reasons they are so passionate about the sport to begin with.

There are usually only a handful of opportunities for a player to take part in a

“hype” game during their career, and several teams will have that chance this upcoming season.

Many of these games are rivalries, have playoff implications or are just surrounded by interesting storylines that make it a must-watch affair that week.

The following are the top five games to keep an eye on during the 2019 season: NO. 1 MAPLESVILLE VS. ISABELLA (OCT. 11)

This game has been among the highly-anticipated showdowns in the county ever since head coach Tate Leonard stepped foot at Isabella in 2016.

However, the results have

yet to go in Isabella’s favor, as the Red Devils have had their way with the Mustangs outscoring them 146-34 in the three outings.

Is this the year Isabella finally breaks through against their in-county nemesis and takes the rivalry to the next level?

This may be the last year that the game has region title implications, if the possibility that Isabella could move up to Class 2A becomes a reality.

NO. 2 JEMISON VS. CHILTON COUNTY (SEPT. 20)

The rivalry game is once again also a region game, which means that the stakes will be even higher than

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KICKOFF 2019

they already would have been.

This is a classic “throw out the records” game where both teams are sure to show up with a bucket full of intensity, and previous results seem to mean very little in how the game will play out.

Chilton County High School got back on track with a win in the series last season and is carrying a ton of momentum following a playoff appearance.

Jemison appears to be on the other end of the spectrum with more questions than answers currently surrounding the program with Blake Bradley coming in as the team’s new head coach.

Both teams renewed the old rivalry last season, and the Rebels pulled off an emotional victory in the North Chilton Clash.

Round 2 now heads to Jemison, but just like last year fans on both sides of the fence are sure to flood through the gates and create quite the atmosphere.

There are new faces for each program.

For Thorsby, it is on the field as they work to replace several key contributors from last year’s squad, while for the Panthers the change will be found on the sideline with the coaching staff.

NO. 4 MAPLESVILLE VS. LINDEN (SEPT. 13)

Redemption is the one word that best describes this game.

The Red Devils’ only two blemishes on their

schedule a year ago came against Linden, including in the semifinals of the state playoffs.

Maplesville lost both games by an average margin of 9.5 points, which makes it even more painful.

Will the Red Devils finally be able to get that yearlong bad taste out of their mouths?

NO. 5 ISABELLA VS. LINDEN (SEPT. 20)

The contest takes place a week after Maplesville’s faceoff with Linden, which could play into Isabella’s favor.

As the fourth game into the season, it will begin to prove what the Mustangs are capable of in 2019.

A win would set the tone for the rest of the season and validate Region 3-1A as a three-team race for the top spot. n

Wishing all teams a safe and successful season!

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NO. 3 JEMISON VS. THORSBY (AUG. 22)

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Jemison

PANTHERS JEMISON’S GILLILAND PROVES HARD TO STOP Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

N

oah Gilliland and the rest of the Jemison upperclassmen will be saddled with the task of helping the football program get headed in the right direction.

The senior primarily plays fullback, while also spending some time at defensive end.

He is expected to be a workhorse in the Jemison rushing attack and looks to build on his production with an increase in carries.

Gilliland has made a home in the backfield since the coaching staff moved him their his sophomore year.

“I started off as a quarterback but instead of throwing the ball I always ran it, so they just started giving me the ball,” Gilliland said.

It turned out to be the right move for both parties with his size making him tough to bring down.

“They just told me to duck my head and run through the line,” Gilliland said. “It was a pretty easy transition for the most part.”

Due to his physical style of running, yards after contact is where he is really able to

rack up the production.

Gilliland does not hide the fact that his physical nature gives him an advantage against most opponents and has fully embraced being a “power” back.

“I’ve always worked to get as much as I can before and after a hit,” Gilliland said.

“I’m not really that elusive, so I have to get as many yards as I can going through people.

Sometimes you’ve just got to make your own hole.”

However, his size is still a relatively new thing for him.

“I used to be the smallest one in my class until my eighth to ninth grade year when in three months I grew seven inches,” Gilliland said.

“I’ve been growing since.”

It has been quite an adjustment and he has had to continually modify his game to fit his newfound size.

“I used to be really fast, and now it’s slowed down some but I can still get around,” Gilliland chuckled.

One of the reasons why Gilliland is so excited for the upcoming season is the potential he sees in Jemison’s projected veteran offensive line.

Gilliland’s carries have continued to go up in recent years, which is something KICKOFF 2019

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JEMISON 2019 BAND Elijah Bittle, Austin Blalock, Hannah Grace Childress, Cassidy Dansby, Logan Frye, Dalia Hernandez, Ethan Ivy, Haley Joiner, Taylor Lane, Ezra Leachman, Heather Lindsey, Ty Scott, Gracie Smith, Jacylin Smith, Lindsey Spain, Gabe Vargas, Briana Watson, Bronson Allemand, Nathan Bailey, Austin Black, Taylor Carden, Alex Castelazo, Ben Champagne, Zully Del Valle, Hannah Ellison, Jace Gardner, Patrick Garrett, Humberto Guajardo, Caitlyn Harris, Jack Hayes, Ashton Kennedy, Natalie LaRocca, Karla Mancilla, Wendy Martinez, Addyson Plier, J.T. Roberts, Dallas Sadler, Alex Torres, Abigail Vansant, Abigail Wright, Ashley Adams, Estefany Arguello, Grace Ann Biel, Seth Bittle, Levi Burchfield, Bethany Coffee, Gissell De La Cruz, Ruben Gonzalez, Marissa Graggs, Emily Hoyt, Emily Loggins, McKenzi Luster, Grace Means, Juliet Mendoza, Jacob Monks, Nathan Quesenberry, James Smith, Brisco Smith, Karley Tillery, Lesly Vergas, Ashley Walker, Constance Anderson, Savannah Anderson, Ryleigh Anderson, Faith Barnfield, Diego Borraz, Emily Brant, Elizabeth Carden, Alexis Carr, Destiny Casale, Peyton Chancellor, Alexis Cleckler, Janna Compton, Bailey Elliott, Ossiel Galindo, Noah Haggard, Luis Hernandez, Brookelyn Keenum, Emily Leachman, Gracie Ledbetter, Frida Maldonado, Bracee Morris, Breyanna Mosley, Brandy Putnam, Josh Quesenberry, Terrie Roberts, Eli Rowe, Trey Sewell, Morgan Wilkins

JEMISON 2019 CHEERLEADERS Mattie Pace, Mckenzie Cleckley, Morgan Smitherman , Emily Fricke, Emily Mims , Kinley Copen, Brianna Poe, Courtney Moore, Bella Gilliland, Mary Gillespie, Kelsey Scott, Tori Adams, Morgan Lowery, Makayla Ingram, Ashlynn Young

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JEMISON 2019 ROSTER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17

Tyriq Archie So. Joshua Gilliland So. T.J. Nix So. Deven Moore Jr. Jahvon Smith Sr. Daniel Martin Sr. Wesley McGhar Fr. James Wright So. Hayden Robinson So. Hunter Baker So. Noah Gilliland Sr. Austin Wyatt Sr. Josh Glass Jr. Tarun Varner Fr. Quendarius Grayson Jr. Fernando Prado Jr.

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34

Tucker Bean Jr. Guyton Pace Fr. Orlando Mora Fr. Yahir Hernandez Fr. Jonathon Camacho Fr. Jonathon Wolfe So. Jesse Prado Jr. Will Turner So. Efrain Villeda Sr. Luke Mitchell Fr. Micheal Lutz Jr. Elijah Allen Patrick Littleton Fr. James Burnette So. Alex Dewitt Fr. Ryan Harris Jr.

36 37 40 42 43 44 50 51 52 53 54 55 59 61 63 67

Carson Brown Jr. Micheal Nance So. Jared Smith Fr. Enrique Solis Fr. Chavez Melton Fr. Brent Averette Fr. Colin Tillery Sr. Mason Hadden Sr. Jordan Thompson Fr. Tyler Ellison Fr. Skylar Reeves So. Matt Brasher So. Carlos Villeda So. Andreas Martinez So. Clayton Lucas Fr. Jonathon Lowrey Sr.

68 69 71 72 74 75 76 77 79 98

Chase Lang Sr. Eli Brasher Jr. Kieth Adams Sr. Gavin Smitherman Jr. Alex Shrader Sr. Colton Drinkard Fr. Landon Headly Fr. Nic Ray Sr. Brian Gutierrez So. Connor O’Toole Sr.

Head Coach Blake Bradley – first season

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he has embraced with open arms.

Last season he averaged 5.3 yards per carry, a number he looks to duplicate or even improve in 2019.

He has been playing football since he was about 8 years old, and also plays baseball and basketball at JHS. “With football, I’ve always liked the contact,” Gilliland said.

With the introduction of new head coach Blake Bradley the senior class of players have taken it upon themselves to make sure they do what they can within their power to make it as smooth a transition as possible.

“Us seniors have banded together and said that no matter what happens we’ve got to still push through,” Gilliland said. “Coach Van [Clements] was a good coach and we liked him, but sadly he had to go. We’ve just got to set an example for the guys for when adversity hits.”

Gilliland has been patrolling the Jemison sidelines long before he made the varsity team after spending time as a water boy and ball boy growing up.

That experience sticks with him and is reflected in the way he interacts and shares his time with the youth.

“I’ve had parents come up to me and say that I’m an inspiration to their kids,” Gilliland said with a deep breath.

Despite being a senior he expects to have some anxious moments as he takes the field for the first game against rival Thorsby in front of the home fans.

However, he also does not expect it to take long before the flow of the game takes over.

“That’s how it seems to happen,” Gilliland said.

“The first game you get some butterflies but by the first hit you get going.” n

2-minute drill CLASS 5A, REGION 3 2019 SCHEDULE Aug. 22: Thorsby Aug. 30: Greensboro Sept. 6: at Central Tuscaloosa* Sept. 12: at Montevallo* Sept. 20: Chilton County* Sept. 27: Open Oct. 4: Bibb County* (homecoming) Oct. 11: at Marbury* Oct. 18: Demopolis* Oct. 25: at Shelby County* Nov. 1: at West Blocton *region game 2018 RESULTS at Thorsby (loss, 44-26) at Greensboro (loss, 26-10) Central Tuscaloosa (loss, 36-21) Montevallo (loss, 64-41) at Chilton County (loss, 23-14) at Bibb County (loss, 65-21) Marbury (won, 34-22) at Demopolis (loss, 50-0) Shelby County (won, 53-44) West Blocton (loss, 33-13) SEASON OUTLOOK There will be a different feel around the Jemison football program heading into the 2019 season with Blake Bradley taking over as the school’s varsity head coach.

34

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Jemison’s season will be highlighted by a trio of rivalry games, as they open against Thorsby, face Chilton County midway through and square off against Shelby County near the end. The first two of those contests will be played at home.

In recent years, the Panthers have taken a ground and pound approach. Time will tell if Bradley chooses to stick with a similar way of attack or if the passing game becomes more of an option.

However, it was the defense that struggled mightily at stopping opponents last season.

The Panthers allowed an average of 40.7 points per game, which made it difficult to keep pace and win games.

Those are numbers that can be difficult to reverse in just one offseason, but there is surly some pressure on the defensive side of the ball to show some signs of progression.

“Last year we had some ups and downs,” Jemison senior Noah Gilliland said. “This year we’re going to try to keep our head level-minded no matter win, lose or draw.”

A veteran offensive line will help lead the way for Jemison on offense, and should be a unit that Bradley can lean on during his first year.

One thing that Bradley has going for him is that he is familiar with Jemison after facing them as an assistant with West Blocton last season.

Verbena

RED DEVILS RUTLAND LEADS THE WAY AFTER SUMMER OF SPECULATION Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

T

aylor Rutland has been playing football since he was three years old and now he is the unquestioned senior leader of the 2019 Verbena Red Devils football team.

Although Rutland plays along the front line on both sides of the ball, he is also extremely versatile.

He is expected to start the season as the team’s center, but can move to offensive tackle and linebacker as needed.

“Wherever the coach needs me,” Rutland said.

“The coaches are really leaning on me to be a leader out there on the field.”

His familiarity will come in handy especially this season with such young and inexperienced teammates around him.

“It will help out a lot,” Rutland said.

Rutland’s experience as a tackle will be most needed against opponents with a strong pass rush.

36

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“If we play a team who is beating us off the line, I may have to go out there [tackle],” Rutland said.

Center was a position that Rutland had to adjust to when he first began playing it on a full-time basis.

According to Rutland, the primary challenge unlike guard or tackle is the added element of snapping the ball before continuing on with the blocking scheme.

“It was a little nerve-racking at first, because you have so many responsibilities,” Rutland said.

Some NFL players that he has always tried to emulate with his play have been Ray Lewis at linebacker and Ryan Kalil along the offensive line.

“Ryan [Kalil] is quiet and he just does his job,” Rutland said. “That fits me.”

With so much youth on the team, Rutland understands that one of the best

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VERBENA 2019 ROSTER 8 Hunter Armstrong 11 Jason Barber 54 Tomas Cabrera 55 Grantley Childress 58 Michael Conatser 9 Luke Connell 7 Ethan Dopson 2 Andrew Drake

So. So. 8th Fr. 8th Fr. Fr. 7th

things he can pass along is the example of a hard work ethic.

“Along the offensive line, we don’t really get noticed until we’re not working,” Rutland said.

“If we don’t work, the play gets blown up.”

As if there wasn’t enough pressure on Rutland’s shoulders as one of the lone veterans on the team, the program has gone through a lot of uncertainty throughout the summer months regarding speculation that a team would even be fielded.

“We are trying to lay the groundwork for the teams to come,” Rutland said.

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70 Corey Edwards 75 James Hall 24 Ethan Hand 20 Zachary Howell 77 Jeremy Hughes 22 DJ Jackson 5 Jarod Quinn 63 Chance Landry

Jr. 8th 8th 7th 7th 8th Fr. Sr.

One thing for sure is that Rutland was relieved once the official decision was made to have a team in 2019, because it meant he no longer had to be asked the questions by the community.

“Everybody in the county kept coming up to me and asking,” Rutland said.

“We even had to cancel our spring game because we didn’t know. People would come up to me in Walmart.”

He is happy to finally have the chance to enjoy his senior season and focus fully to improving on the field instead of juggling off-field rumors.

15 Eric Martinez Calderon 8th 65 Dallas Mims 8th 3 Jacob Morris 7th 12 Nathaniel Morris Fr. 6 Ashton Rigsby 8th 60 Taylor Rutland Sr. 25 Zion Smith So. 69 Trey Roberts So.

“It’s my senior year and I wanted to play football without having to move to another school,” Rutland said.

Rutland will be the biggest offensive lineman the Red Devils will have heading into the season.

Much of that just has to do with the fact that starting so many underclassmen means the majority of their bodies are still developing.

The result is an expected size disadvantage for Verbena against most of its opponents.

Rutland remembers how difficult it was when he was first introduced to

34 Samuel Merchant 10 Chris Varden Austin Wells

7th 7th

Head Coach Josh Robinson – first season

playing at the varsity level.

“I’m scared for them, because it’s tough,” Rutland said.

The Red Devils went winless the past two years, which means their team goals are a little different than the other teams in the county heading into 2019.

“We’re just trying to win one game at a time, that’s all we’re trying to do,” Rutland said. “We’ve all got faith in it.”

Two years is a long time for any program without the taste of victory.

“It’s been a while,” Rutland said. “If we can win, we’ll change everybody’s mind.” n

VERBENA 2019 BAND John Cubbison, Gabrella Montoya, Joseph Wells, Emilee Culver, Meghan McAlpin, Abaigeal Grandy, Starr Woods, Elizabeth Mims, Angel Abbott, Reanna Cleckler, DeAnna Brasher, Gabrielle Edwards, Jerica Wells, Landon Fesmire, Melia Tyus, Laliah Benjamin, Carolina Montoya, Nathan Ellison, Versain Guzman, Ezekiel Sewell, Tyler Kozak, Lexi Benjamin, Joseph Brasher, Ethan Miller

V

2-minute drill CLASS 1A, REGION 4 2019 SCHEDULE Aug. 22: at McKenzie Aug. 30: at Thorsby Sept. 6: Open Sept. 13: Billingsley* Sept. 20: Wadley* Sept. 27: Highland Home Oct. 4: Autaugaville* (homecoming) Oct. 11: at Notasulga* Oct. 18: Lanett* Oct. 24: at Loachapoka* Nov. 1: Isabella *region game

2018 RESULTS Thorsby (loss, 46-0) at Billingsley (loss, 48-8) at Wadley (loss, 54-0) at Highland Home (loss, 54-0) at Autaugaville (loss, 34-6) Notasulga (loss, 41-0) at Lanett (loss, 67-0) Loachapoka (loss, 44-16) Lanett (loss, 42-0) Isabella (loss, 47-6) SEASON OUTLOOK Verbena enters the 2019 season riding a 20-game losing streak, which is something everyone around the program wants to end as soon as possible.

However, it will be an uphill climb to do so with a ton of inexperience on the team and only a few seniors to help lead the way.

Josh Robinson replaces Tyler Kelley as head coach and looks to right the ship after a tumultuous off-season, in which the Red Devils pondered the option of not even being able to have a team.

Despite all the negatives

recently surrounding the school’s football program, things seem to be heading back in the right direction in time for the season.

Although wins will most likely be hard to come by yet again, the Verbena community has seemed rally behind the team and there is a bit of light at the end of the tunnel.

After not having enough students tryout in the spring, there

have been reports of growing interest of late.

One of the biggest positives about having a team in place is the fact that the seniors will now be able to properly finish out their careers.

Although they may not experience a victory, they can put in the effort and help set a lasting tone that leads the program beyond this year and into the future.

VERBENA 2019 CHEERLEADERS Madison Kelley, Lydia Edwards, Christina Carter, Hannah Connell, Macey Kelley, Isabella McDaniel, Lizzy Walker, Lacey Drake, Nyla Barnett, Melia Tyus, Laliah Benjamin

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Billingsley

BEARS ARINGTON LOOKS TO ADD SPEED TO PHYSICAL STYLE Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

T

aylor Arington has been a workhorse in the Billingsley backfield in recent years, and all signs point to that being the case again in 2019.

Despite the introduction of a new head coach and a new approach, Arington understands that his role as a leader does not change.

“It’s been really exciting to start out as a ninth grader and just build from that young kid into a leadership role,” Arington said.

“It felt like last year our juniors assumed a lot of leadership roles.”

According to Arington, he believes that should help with the transition heading into this season.

One of the things that Arington is looking to pass 40

KICKOFF 2019

along to the younger players is “accountability”.

“We’re all for Billingsley and that’s why we’re here,” Arington said.

He started playing football when he was in fourth grade with some encouragement from his dad.

“I’ve loved it every since,” Arington said.

Billingsley has been his home since he moved there with his family in fifth grade.

According to Arington, it has been “cool” to have people know who you are within the community due to the fact that he plays for the BHS football program.

One of the interesting aspects heading into this season is that Arington will be playing alongside his brother Levi, who will be a sophomore and is expected to be the starting quarterback.

This will be the first time the brother tandem will be starting in the same offensive backfield.

In recent years, Arington has also played middle linebacker on defense.

He focused on the defensive side of the ball until he got some reps at running back in eighth grade and never looked back.

“Last year I had an OK year, but it’s still not good enough if you want to get into college,” Arington said.

Whether he’s playing offense or defense, he approaches both with an attacking mindset that includes a lot of physicality.

“I’m not one of the more shifty-type backs, so I’m always going to be hitting somebody,” Arington said.

“It’s just a matter of how mean you are.”

Arington described his running style as “pointand-cut”.

During the offseason he has been working on improving his speed, and even spent time with a personal trainer.

He’s worked on his straight speed and has gotten his 40-yard dash down around a time of 4.6 seconds.

One major thing that he learned helps increase speed is being flexible.

A large portion of his training included 40 minutes of hip flexor and other stretching exercises.

Arington’s running style leads to a lot of yards racked up after the initial contact at the line of scrimmage.

“I like looking at highlights like that,” Arington said.

The games Arington is looking forward to

BILLINGSLEY 2019 ROSTER 1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9

Jackson Manning Timothy Cooper Eli Cobern Devin Black Caleb Willis Taylor Arington Brisen Tatum Nelson Rebolledo

So. Jr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Sr. So.

the most in 2019 are the ones against opponents that they lost to the year before.

One thing that Arington hopes to improve his senior year is his tackle count on defense.

According to Arington, after leading the team in tackles as a sophomore that total dipped as a junior.

“I’ve been working on quarterbacking the defense and making sure everybody is lined up and doing their job right,” Arington said.

This increased attention to pre-snap preperation could provide an added spark to a Bears defense that had already held opponents to less than 30 points per game in 2018.

“To be able to do your job to the best of your ability and to do it wide open is the most fun part of football,” Arington said. n

10 11 21 22 24 28 33 44

Chris Atwell Levi Arington Kylan Thomas Devory Huffman Johnny Carroll Rodriquis McCrary Jeremy Carroll Porter Waites

So. So. So. Jr. So. Fr. So. Sr.

45 51 53 62 67 71 75 76

Cameron Cook Chezney Thornton Jontavies Todd Mathew ShanHoltser Justin Thompson Tripp Glass Sr. Bing Ian Bing Tate Swanner

Jr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. So.

Oct. 24: at Lanett* Nov. 1: Thorsby *region game

2-minute drill CLASS 1A, REGION 4 2019 SCHEDULE Aug. 23: Keith Aug. 30: at Isabella Sept. 6: Loachapoka* Sept. 13: at Verbena* Sept. 20: Open Sept. 27: at Prattville Christian Oct. 4: Wadley* Oct. 11: at Autaugaville* Oct. 18: Notasulga* (homecoming)

2018 RESULTS at Keith (loss, 38-28) Isabella (loss, 41-8) at Loachapoka (won, 25-18) Verbena (won, 48-8) Prattville Christian (won, 33-14) at Wadley (loss, 50-6) Autaugaville (won, 47-8) at Notasulga (won, 8-7) Lanett (loss, 42-0) at Thorsby (loss, 28-13) Playoffs at Elba (loss, 54-19) SEASON OUTLOOK The Billingsley Bears are fresh off making the postseason for the first time in three years, and now look to make it two in a row.

However, there are some new faces that will be gracing the field and the sideline in 2019.

Phillip Coggins will be the

79 Mathew McNeal 88 Yohance Whitlow 89 Dee Duramus

So. So. Jr.

Head Coach Phillip Coggins – first season

new head coach at Billingsley after leading Highland Home to a state semifinal appearance in Class 2A. He went 19-6 in his two years at Highland Home. They were the first two years of his head-coaching career.

“I want to try and win it all this year, but even if we don’t, I want to try and lay a foundation for somebody in future years to do it,” senior Taylor Arington said.

Arington is one of the main weapons returning for the Bears, as he looks to surpass his 800-plus rushing yards and six touchdowns from a year ago.

Billingsley lost three starting seniors along the offensive line from last year’s unit, but that doesn’t mean that the same holes won’t be there to run through.

“We’ve got to get some more young guys involved,” Arington said. “It has the potential to be very good but it just depends on how they do in the weight room just like anything else.”

BILLINGSLEY 2019 CHEERLEADERS Maegan Motley, Bailee Kirkley, Cherissa Cutler, PresLee Pittman, Macee Motley, Hannah Emfinger, Tori Hilyer, Laney Acreman, Ashlon Harrison, Harleigh Caver KICKOFF 2019

41

Thorsby

REBELS QUICK TO SCORE, QUICK TO LEAD Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

J

acob Lockhart’s role on the Thorsby football team continues to evolve with each year that passes.

Heading into the 2019 season, the senior will not only be expected to be a playmaker, but also as a leader on a team full of talent but inexperience.

“I believe that if the team can just stay together and everyone just does their job it can be a great season,” Lockhart said.

He was one of the young guys on the team in 2017, as a sophomore, when the Rebels first got on their recent roll of success.

However, two years later the script has flipped, and he is now a veteran that many of his younger teammates will be looking to for guidance.

“They got a feel for it and from what they’ve tasted of it, I feel like they want it even more,” Lockhart said.

“All of us had been really hard over the summer. I feel like everybody has bought in.”

Lockhart’s quickness makes him hard to tackle in the open field and a threat to score from anywhere on the field.

“I’ve always been quick 42

KICKOFF 2019

my whole life,” Lockhart said. “You get out there and your instincts just kick in.

It’s weird, because sometimes you don’t even know you’re doing it.”

The Thorsby coaching staff came up with a variety of ways to get the ball in his hands to take advantage of his elusive ability.

He spent the majority of time in the backfield but also shifted out wide and caught passes and returned kicks on special teams.

“I’ve really just played wherever coach needs me,” Lockhart said.

Since Daryl Davis took over as head coach two years ago, the offense has continued to expand adding more dimensions as the playbook evolves.

“He’s got a few ideas about the offense,” Lockhart said.

One of the advancements last season was the addition of more empty-set formations.

Despite several new starters, Lockhart expects the offense to take yet another step forward in terms of its evolution.

One of the team’s strengths is along the offensive line. The unit is expected to have more size

than a year, which is something the coaching staff will be looking to build upon.

“After the first couple of games, I think they’ll get accustomed to it and grow as players,” Lockhart said. “I believe in them.”

He is looking forward to seeing the running lanes that they are able to open up once they start hitting their stride as a group.

Lockhart has called the backfield his home throughout his high school career. It is a position he relishes.

“It’s fun just getting the ball in your hands and doing what you’ve got to do to get to the end zone,” Lockhart said.

He will once again be a starter on both sides of the ball as he moves from corner to strong safety, filling the void left by the graduation of Tyler Jackson.

Changing positions means a change in the responsibilities that come along with it.

Lockhart is looking forward to the physical nature of coming up and defending against the run, which is a key aspect required as a strong safety.

“You’re not always just covering a man,” Lockhart said. “You’ve got to be able to fill different gaps.”

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One of the games that Lockhart is looking forward to the most is the region contest at home against Reeltown on Oct. 4.

Reeltown handed the Rebels their only regular-season loss a year ago.

“I know they’re going to be a really good team,” Lockhart said. “How we play against them in that game will show our true colors.”

Another game with hype surrounding it will be the

season opener against Jemison on the road.

Getting a victory against their rival last year really jump-started the record-breaking season that followed.

Lockhart is thankful that he was able to play against their rival down the road during his high school career.

“I’ve realized how much it [high school] has flown by,” Lockhart said. “I’m ready to see how this year’s going to be.” n

THORSBY 2019 BAND Abbie Wells, Abdul Elkhatib, Anna Ledet, Anna Medina, Anna Speakman, Bailee Cleckler, Brooke Edge, Brylie Posey, Chris Knight, Emily Mims, Savanah Edge, Gelizza Hayes, Hayden Washington, Isaac Easterling, Jaaziel Rosas, Jackson Baker, Jacob Harper, Jasmine Bearor, Josh Bolt, Kandice Clayton, Kaylee Veazey, Laura Ann Hayes, Maddie Day, Nathan Rosas, KenNya Andrews, Lucy Rochester

GOOD LUCK TO ALL TEAMS!

44

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Fayetteville (won, 50-6) at Central Coosa (won, 60-8) Billingsley (won, 28-13) PLAYOFFS Ariton (loss, 41-14)

2-minute drill CLASS 2A, REGION 4 2019 SCHEDULE Aug. 22: at Jemison Aug. 30: Verbena Sept. 6: Horseshoe Bend* (homecoming) Sept. 13: at LaFayette* Sept. 20: at Vincent* Sept. 27: Isabella Oct. 4: Reeltown* Oct. 10: at Fayetteville* Oct. 18: Open Oct. 25: Central Coosa* Nov. 1: at Billingsley *region game 2018 RESULTS Jemison (won, 44-26) at Verbena (won, 46-0) at Horseshoe Band (won, 39-0) LaFayette (won, 18-14) Vincent (won, 47-6) at Isabella (won, 22-12) at Reeltown (loss, 34-26)

2019 Season!

SEASON OUTLOOK The Thorsby Rebels football team will look quite different with very few starters returning from a team that made the Class 2A playoffs the past two years.

The Rebels have two starters returning on offense and three on defense from last year’s squad.

Learning on the fly will be a key factor in determining how Thorsby’s season ends up.

If the team is able to quickly evolve and grow from game to game, the record should begin to dictate that as well.

The past two seasons were magical runs for the football program, and that magic does not just dissipate with the graduation of a couple of classes.

The football culture at Thorsby has made great strides after only a couple of years removed from a one-win season.

According to senior Jacob Lockhart, the young guys that are coming up have been around the program the past two seasons, and even though the majority was watching from the sideline they saw what it took to get to that point.

“I can feel it [the success] carrying on,” Lockhart said.

“Everybody just expects and knows that we’re going to do good. That’s how I feel as well.”

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THORSBY 2019 ROSTER 1 2 3 4 5 7 7 8 9 9 10

Jacob Lockhart Brody Barnett A.J. Smith Xzavier Leverette Luke Davis Warren Lee Aiden Turner Josh Daniel Brady Watson Kendall Braswell Blake Lockhart

Sr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Sr. Fr. Fr. Sr. Fr. Sr.

10 11 12 12 13 14 16 21 22 23 24

Remington Taylor Tyler Ray Genaro Aquino Aiden Niamon Aaron Arredondo Tucker Patterson Slate Phillips Caleb Davis Braden Deavers Chance Elrod Brent Jones

Fr. Sr. So. Fr. Fr. Sr. So. Sr. Fr. Jr. Jr.

25 50 52 54 55 56 58 58 59 61 62

Dylan Sanders Noah Littlejohn Koby Davis Michael Bolt Kaydon Crumpton Braxton Jones Jamaries Hayes Dallas Tucker Kohen Davis Joseph Price Tate Kendrick

Fr. So. Sr. So. Jr. Fr. Jr. Fr. So. Fr. Sr.

65 74 75 77 78 79 81

Chanan Stephens Chase Rollan Xavian Bryant Chris Arledge Cory Baker Luke Peek Sawyer Sellers

Fr. Sr. So. So. Jr. Jr. Jr.

Head Coach Daryl Davis – third season, second stint at school (27-35)

THORSBY 2019 CHEERLEADERS Caitlyn Birchfield, Lindsey Wood, Lily Porter, Hannah Henry, Madison Fulmer, Karlee Kincaid, Paityn Lovelady, Jaycie Porter, Emily Jones, Amberly Davenport, Alivia Brown, Kassidy Payne, Keelin West, Calissa Pledger, Hanna Giles, Anna Church

46

KICKOFF 2019

Aug. 22 Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 10 Oct. 18 Oct. 25

Away Home Home Away Away Home Home Away Home Away

Thorsby JV Football Team & JV Cheerleaders