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GUIDE TO FOOTBALL IN

CHILTON COUNTY

Schedules, rosters, photos, analysis, bands and cheerleaders

Advertiser The Clanton

KICKOFF 2018

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

our Local High School Football Teams!

KICKOFF 2018

The lineup

ON THE COVER: Christian Fortner (Photograph by Brandon Sumrall)

TEAM ANALYSES

6 Maplesville 12 Isabella 16 Chilton County

30 Jemison 40 Billingsley 35 Chilton Christian 42 Thorsby 36 Verbena

PLAYERS TO WATCH

26 Best at each position 4

KICKOFF 2018

Timothy Bradley

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Maplesville

RED DEVILS

Dr. Ajay Patel M.D.

Dr. Cherrie Herrera M.D.

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BRADLEY FIGHTS ADVERSITY, COMPLETES COMEBACK Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

process. It served as the light at the end of the tunnel. “I’m not going to say that t has been a long road I’m all the way there yet, but back, but Timothy I’m close,” Bradley said. “I can Bradley has been ofhandle myself.” ficially cleared to play While Bradley was his senior season. confined to the hospital, he Bradley will take the field received continuous visits and this fall after recovering from a show of support from his a car crash that resulted in a fellow seniors and teammates. pelvic fracture. “The love from my teamWhen Bradley found out mates helped me get through he was cleared for action, he it,” Bradley said. “In the hoswas hit with a giant sense of pital, that was the only thing relief. running through my mind. “I wasn’t supposed to be To get back out here and play here,” Bradley said. “I was just with my guys.” thanking God.” Bradley plays in the middle According to Bradley, he of a veteran linebacker corps received various diagnoses that looks to be the strength that questioned weather he of the defense. would ever be able to play the His return will solidify that sport he loves once more. unit and make it a force to be He spent one month under reckoned with. bed rest and two months in Despite the unexpected a wheelchair prior to diving adversity, Bradley has lofty into the rehab process. goals for the team once again “You never expect anyheading into 2018. thing like that,” said Senior “I expect to do what we Jakavian Mckenzie, Bradley’s always do and get back to cousin. “I know how much he state,” Bradley said. “Every loved playing football and we team is a threat if you don’t all wanted him to be back out go out and handle your busihere.” ness.” The focus of the rehab was Not having Bradley on the improving Bradley’s range of field would have been a major movement, which included loss, not only in the game walking and running. plan, but also in the mentality He thanked the doctors at of the team. UAB Hospital for keeping Senior Tristen Thetford him levelheaded and positive plays alongside Bradley as throughout the rehab. outside linebacker and rePlaying football once members being shocked when again was one of the driving he first heard the news of the forces that helped get Bradley car crash. through the rehabilitation “That’s the guy that you

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PLAYOFFS Linden (win, 49-28) Talladega County Central (win, 36-0) at Sweet Water (loss, 26-21)

2-minute drill CLASS 1A, REGION 3 COACH Brent Hubbert 18th season (154-24 at school, 171-39 overall) ASSISTANTS Brad Abbott Troy Harrison Eric Bailey Clark Watley Aaron Ratliff Justin Little Ronnie Parker Brandon Morrow 2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: at Fultondale Sept. 7: A.L. Johnson* Sept. 14: at Linden* Sept. 21: Keith* Sept. 28: at Reeltown Oct. 5: Ellwood Christian* (homecoming) Oct. 12: at Isabella* Oct. 19: Holy Spirit* Oct. 26: at Francis Marion* Nov. 2: at Lamar County *region game 2017 RESULTS at Resurrection, Miss. (win, 36-6) at Notasulga (win, 50-18) Highland Home (win, 70-19) Ellwood Christian (win, 63-0) Dallas County (win, 56-0) Isabella (win, 55-20) at Autaugaville (win, 71-6) at Loachapoka (win, 56-6) at American Christian (win, 28-0)

play beside,” Thetford said. “When you see him down, you just want to help pick him up.” Bradley was named The Clanton Advertiser’s 2017 defensive player of the year. According to head coach

SEASON OUTLOOK This season is one of intrigue for the Maplesville Red Devils, as they enter the season with more questions than they have had in quite some time. Many of the questions exist because of the unknown and will most likely be answered in the first couple of games. The first of which is the introduction of sophomore Jackson Abbott into the starting quarterback role. Although Abbott is more mature than your typical sophomore, and has looked the part in previous action. Those snaps came in the second half of games where the score was no longer in doubt. It is a different environment when you are the player tasked with the responsibilities of helping get your team to that point of a big lead. Abbott will have the luxury of a having a dynamic duo standing alongside him in the backfield with running backs Ryan Morrow and Christin Brown. Another question is on the defensive side of the ball and was partly answered when Timothy Bradley was cleared to play after being injured in a car wreck. He is the lynchpin of the Maplesville defense and at the center of arguably the best linebacker corps in the county. Of course if any team is prepared and built to handle the question marks, it would be Maplesville and the consistency within the program that head coach Brent Hubbert has developed over his 17 years with the school.

Brent Hubbert, Bradley leads with his play and his emotion. “He leads by effort and our guys follow,” Hubbert said. “He’s been one of our go-to guys for the last three years. He’s no doubt one of the best one’s I’ve ever coached.” n KICKOFF 2018

ROSTER 3 Brody Hubbert 4 Christin Brown 5 Jakavian Mckenzie 6 Latrell Wilson 8 Jackson Abbott 10 Brady Harrison 12 Cole Gray 13 Joseph Pettigrew 15 Jordon Lee

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

16 17 19 20 21 24 25 27 30

Hunter Lenoir Hayden Dyer Paul Mitchell Ajala Robinson Kalyn Hardy Joseph Johnson Ashton Hobbs Ryan Morrow Tristen Thetford

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

32 35 36 44 50 51 52 53 54

Caleb Hobbs Timothy Bradley Corey Stephens Gage Mims Brandon Pickle Noah Walls Jacob Johnson Taylor Sheffield Dorian Heard

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

MAPLESVILLE CHEERLEADERS Hannah Chambers, Laci Spencer, Emily Smitherman, Allison Giles, Jaycie Armstrong, Chassidy Payne, Emma Anderson, Kelsey Turner, Shaveon Dunlap, Taleshia Ramsey, Gracie Harrison, Haven Smith

GOOD LUCK DEVILS!

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55 57 60 61 66 68 74 77 78

Adolphus Harris Osvaldo Tapia Clayton Horn Cordell Crosby Gavin Jones Timber Lenoir Timothy Mims Trevon Blackmon Austin Johnson

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

KICKOFF 2018

Blake Henderson

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Isabella

MUSTANGS HENDERSON HELPS ISABELLA MOVE THE CHAINS Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

“A big part for me is having to step up and be that leader for the team,” Heneliability is derson said. “It’s definitely everything a change, because there’s for a wide always been a senior to look receiver, and up to, and now I’m that guy.” senior Blake According to Henderson, Henderson has continued to he likes the individual battles prove that during his time at that take place on the outside Isabella. between receivers and defenThe quickest way to earn sive backs. the trust of teammates and “It’s me versus him [dethe coaching staff is to do fender],” Henderson said. “I your job and make the plays just love it.” when they are in front of Jarrett Baker and Cole you. Atchison have been in For a receiver, that means competition for the startcatching the ball when it is ing quarterback spot, as the thrown your way. Mustangs look to replace It seems pretty simple, but Jaqarise Stacy due to graducan be a complex situation, ation. especially when someone is The relationship between defending you. a quarterback and receiver is Speed is a helpful tool, built on timing, which can but getting open is only half only be fine tuned through of the battle. Catching the repetition. ball is the final part of the “It hasn’t been that big of scenario. a deal, because we’ve had “I may not be able to fly by enough chances the last coueverybody, but if it’s around ple of years to get them game me, I’m going to catch it,” time experience,” Henderson Henderson said. said. “They know what to do, Henderson has shown an but now they just have to do ability to be sure-handed and it for a full game.” be a go-to target in key third Henderson believes he has down and red zone situaestablished a good rhythm tions. with both players and is preOn a very youthful Isabella pared for whoever gets the team, Henderson and the final nod. rest of the senior class will On defense, he moves be leaned on for a veteran around in the secondary presence. playing both cornerback and

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Dustin Green Ben Ard Cody Leonard Craig Taylor

2-minute drill CLASS 1A, REGION 3 COACH Tate Leonard third season (20-4) ASSISTANTS Jarred Day Jerry Harrison

GOOD LUCK MUSTANGS!

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2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: at Billingsley Sept. 7: at Francis Marion* Sept. 14: A.L. Johnson* Sept. 21: at Linden* Sept. 28: Thorsby Oct. 5: Keith* (homecoming) Oct. 12: Maplesville* Oct. 19: Ellwood Christian* Oct. 26: at Holy Spirit* Nov. 1: at Verbena *region game 2017 RESULTS at Verbena (win, 54-8) Winterboro (win, 51-29) at Autaugaville (win, 46-6) at Highland Home (win, 51-15) Holy Spirit (win, 40-13)

Loachapoka (win, 35-6) at Maplesville (loss, 55-20) Notasulga (win, 48-22) Ellwood Christian (win, 70-0) at Thorsby (win, 34-6) PLAYOFFS Millry (win, 26-21) at Wadley (loss, 55-19) SEASON OUTLOOK Isabella lost some key players that had been vital components of the success for the past two seasons. However, the Mustangs have a group of experienced players that are ready to step into more full-time roles. The leader of this group is senior Jarrett Baker, who will start at quarterback after waiting in the wings. According to Baker, he is ready

to showcase his talent and make the most of the opportunity. He has looked comfortable throughout the seven-on-seven camps this summer connecting with his receivers, especially fellow senior Blake Henderson and junior Kendall Reeves. One of Isabellaâ€™s strengths in 2018 will be along the offensive line, where the majority of starters return for another year together. That is a big difference from this time last year when the offensive line was young and lacked extensive playing time. The Mustangs have the tools in place for big-play potential both on the ground and through the air.

ROSTER 2 Austin Jones 3 Braxden Giles 9 Lance Price 10 Scottie Johnson 11 Jake Logan 12 Jonathan Alstott 14 Cole Atchison 15 Caleb Minor 16 Blake Henderson 19 Kendall Reeves

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

20 21 23 25 26 29 33 38 40 48

Ben Martin Brayan Dominguez Elijah Littleﬁeld Justin Littleﬁeld Jarrett Baker Nick Simmons Dalton Mims Micah Drinkard Reid Mitchell Anthony Fjeldstad

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

50 51 53 54 55 57 58 59 62 63

Brett Johnson Lucca Biancalana Caleb Washington Branden Evans Tim McCary Conner Bright Phillip Williams Kaleb Brasher Cole Reeves Issac Day

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

ISABELLA CHEERLEADERS Tess Batson, Noelle Fjeldstad, Dymond Stokes, Kiara Ford, Keely Meredith, Madison Minor, Maggie Noah, Katelyn Smitherman, Bailey Parker, Anna Doroteo, Trinity Cox

64 65 70 71 75 77 79 80 81

RJ England Kaden Lawley Chase Hilton Tyler Simmons Jacob Day Logan Littleton Kyler Morris Logan Murray Iverson England

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

safety positions. “I just float around wherever the team needs me to be,” Henderson said. “It helps to play receiver, because you know the mindset that they are going to be in.” After a rough freshman year for the team, Henderson has been part of the turnaround of the Isabella program the last two seasons. “I’ve seen the work that we’ve put in, and it’s great to see how far we’ve come in just a short time,” Henderson said. “We’re out to prove that we’re here to stay and are going to be a powerhouse for a long time. We’re laying the foundation for all the underclassmen to come in and continue the success.” n KICKOFF 2018

Triston Schmidthorst

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Chilton County

TIGERS CCHS LOOKING TO RETURN TO WINNING WAYS Written by J.R. TIDWELL Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

be the same. Last year I was mainly a fullback, but I also played inside and outside ix years ago the linebacker and running back. Chilton County Fullback was probably my Tigers went 10-2. favorite. I like blocking, The following catching the ball and helping season CCHS out the offense. Pancakes are once again had a winning re- always fun, too. On defense, cord and made the playoffs. I like playing inside because The Tigers have not made I can control the defense a return trip to the postseain a way. Outside was fun son since. because I could drop back in CCHS finished their latest coverage and play the run. campaign with a 1-9 record. I’ll just do my best anywhere Now the program is that coach puts me.” focused on turning things While Schmidthorst is around, something senior just now rising to the rank Triston Schmidthorst said he of senior this season, he was and his teammates are com- thrust into a leadership role mitted on working towards. during his junior year. “We are practicing three “My junior season was my mornings a week,” he said. first time starting,” he said. “Everybody has to make “Last year I had to step up their days, so we are makand play a role as a leader. ing sure everyone is getting I’m trying to improve upon better. We have been doing that and be the best leader I a lot of 7-on-7s to get better can be for the team to make on our coverages and routes. the team better. Last year it Our main priority is to stop was kind of hard for people the run, but if we can stop that were older than me to the pass too that’s great. look to somebody younger That’s something we have to for leadership. Now, I can work on from last year.” tell people are looking up Schmidthorst does not to me. I am trying to lead spend time at just one posi- vocally and by example. I tion for the Tigers; he goes feel like when people see me to wherever he is needed. giving it my best they’ll give “I have played a lot of po- their best.” sitions,” he said. “Last year CCHS will be dropping I played all over the field, down to Class 5A this and this year it will probably season after the latest

KICKOFF 2018

ROSTER 1 Kobi Albert 2 Lawson Patterson 3 Mason Dennis 4 Cameron Rhodes 6 Kevin Staffney 7 Warren Lee 8 Dalton Patterson 9 Kevonte Robinson 10 ShiKeem Laister 11 Britten Worrall 12 Justin Liveoak 13 JayQuan Cohen 14 Griffin Farris 15 C.J. Hunter 16 Devonte Robinson 17 Antonio Parker 18 Derreck Ivey 19 Brian Giacobbe 20 Jaberrius Peake

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

21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39

Cameron Wright Triston Schmidthorst Sam Smith Colin McCord Cordell Baker James Grandison David Threatt Connor Simms Walker Green Jaren Swindle Jamarrean Coleman Austin Knight Ethan Smitherman Pate McCullough Paul Hudgins Bailey Beadlecomb Robert Buchanan Taveous Good Jacob Baer

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

40 41 42 44 45 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59

Cade Williams Sr. Ben Shirah So. Connor Miller Sr. Sergio Romero-Rodriguez Jr. Phillip Guin Jr. Austin Cooedy Fr. Jorge Henriquez Sr. Isaac Hill So. Bradley Mims Jr. Mason Cox Jr. Gavin Wilson Sr. Dâ€™Kota Oden Fr. Austin Chandler Sr. Cameron Baker Jr. Cole Bates Fr. M.J. Spigner Fr. Adam Hudgins So. Perry Boulware Jr.

60 61 62 65 67 69 70 71 72 73 74 76 77 78 79 84 85 87 90

Keyontay Jones Daelin Martin Xavier Trimble James Hester Darius Nix Travon Bostic Braden Cleckler Jody Little Kaleb Martin Trey Maywell Jace Fanning Jerry Lee Seth Adair Garrett Connell Caleb Clements Josh Mims Leo Coradi Sawyer Collum Jaylen Knox

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

KICKOFF 2018

reclassification by the AHSAA, but that does not mean things will automatically be easier for the Tigers. “This year we are down to Class 5A, but that doesn’t matter if we don’t work as a team,” Schmidthorst said. “We have to push each other, hold each other accountable and all have the same goal in mind. That’s fighting to win every game and giving everything we’ve got from the first quarter to the last. Hopefully we can make it to the playoffs, and if we do we’ll see how far we can go and do the best that we can.” The Tigers open up the season against Stanhope Elmore, who is led by former CCHS head coach Brian Bradford. The move to 5A also makes county foe Jemison an area opponent now. “Our first game is against

Stanhope and Coach Bradford,” Schmidthorst said. “I think that will be a fun game. Jemison beat us last year, and that put a nasty taste in our mouth. We have to turn that around. We are going to do our best to win all of our region games.” Recently CCHS players and coaches have been spotted wearing T-shirts that say “Change the Culture.” According to Schmidthorst, those words represent the Tigers’ efforts to turn things around. “The coaches introduced the concept to us, and everyone is trying to buy into it,” he said. “We preach about it a lot in the locker room. Changing the culture is not just for the team, but the parents as well. We have to change our mindset, change how we see ourselves and take pride in what we do.” n

of the

best best

Chilton County

PEACH Living

brought to you by:

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CHILTON COUNTY BAND Mallorie A., Leighton A., Zachary A., Anna Grace B., Raven B., Kaliee B., Beth B., Emma B., Jeffery B., Abbey C., Anna C., Colsen C., Kaitlyn D., Sara Kate E., Josh E., Randy G., Ashley G., Melanie G., John G., Chloe H., Aubrie H., Kallen H., Kenneth H., Madison H., Allie H., Meaghan J., Michayla J., Issabella J., Ashley Beth J., Alyssa L., Alex L., Lucy L., Raidon L., Mackenzie L., Dezeraye L., Hannah L., Kayla M., Brendan M., Kaylan M., Kaylee M., Xander M., Hayden M., Joey M., Caydee Grace M., Kaitlin M., Joshua M., Sara Kate M., Jake M., Jaliyah P., Raelyn P. Cassidy P., Lindsey P., Grace Ann P., Patrick R., Stephen R., Caroline R., Anna R., Ellen R., Gala R., Jackie S., Vivian S., Andrew S., Matthew S., Katherine S., Kristen S., Vyctoria S., Selene S., Mariah S., Tomaya T., Trenton T., Malachi T., Lyric V., Chyenne W., Maddie W., Mollie W., Morgan W.

THURSDAY

MON-SAT

Margarita Night

Happy Hour Everyday 3-6

KICKOFF 2018

at Helena (loss, 20-0) Opelika (loss, 41-14) at Wetumpka (loss, 56-19) Russell County (win, 20-19) Benjamin Russell (loss, 34-0) at Pelham (loss, 55-28) Chelsea (loss, 25-13) at B.T. Washington (loss, 46-16)

2-minute drill CLASS 5A, REGION 3 COACH Tal Morrison second season (1-9) ASSISTANTS Reggie Jackson Jake Phillips Alan Lowry Derrick Gibson Justin Veazey James Pair Joe Mangina Keundae Childers 2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 24: Stanhope Elmore Aug. 31: Sylacauga Sept. 7: at Shelby County* Sept. 14: at Central Tuscaloosa* Sept. 21: Jemison* (homecoming) Sept. 28: at Benjamin Russell Oct. 5: Open Oct. 12: Bibb County* Oct. 19: at Marbury* Oct. 26: Demopolis* Nov. 2: at Alexandria *region game 2017 RESULTS Sylacauga (loss, 42-26) at Jemison (loss, 21-20)

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SEASON OUTLOOK There is a different look and feel for Chilton County heading into the 2018 season with the Tigers now competing in Class 5A and revamped logos on the field and the helmets. However, this does not erase the fact that there is still some work to do and that the team under head coach Tal Morrison continues to strive for that taste of success that everyone in the program his hoping for. Morrison enters his second season and looks to improve its marks after a one-win season a year ago. Gradual gains have already been made heading into Morrison’s second year, including Shi-Keem Laister taking over the full-time reign at quarterback. Laister showed flashes of big-play ability a season ago and is expected to make strides forward with another offseason of practice under his belt. CCHS has some tackling machines on defense, especially among the linebackers with Cade Williams and Triston Schmidthorst. It may be another year before major steps are taken in the win column, but there is definitely a more competitive feel in the air at practice, which should also translate to game days.

CCHS CREATES A BRAND Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS

hilton County High School will head into the 2018 season as its own brand after a redesign in the creation of its logos. Tal Morrison enters his second year as head coach of the Tigers and has brought a renewed sense of togetherness surrounding not just the football program, but all of the school’s athletic programs. The school will still be called the Tigers, and the colors will remain blue and orange, but the appearance of the logos has changed. “It’s not trying to change who we are,” Morrison said.

“When we’re out wearing something, we want people to know it is the Chilton County brand. They don’t have to ask.” School faculty, administration, athletic boosters and local leaders were involved in the selection process of the logo design. The result was eight new logos to be used by all teams in the athletic department beginning this school year. “We wanted something that is ours and that people can take a lot of pride in,” Morrison said.

CHILTON COUNTY CHEERLEADERS Lydia Patterson, Grace Nolen, Claea Bice, Hallie Ousley, Maddy Barrington, Maddie Giles, Kailee Williams, Chloe Barron, Clarissa Mullins, Anabel Mullinax, Lauren Hay, Kelsey Martin, Sydney Sanders, Adi Argent, Zoey Collum, Tessa van’t Hof, Ashley Minor

KICKOFF 2018

PLAYERS TO WATCH OFFENSE

DEFENSE

QUARTERBACK

DEFENSIVE LINE

ShiKeem Laister, CCHS, Junior

Alex Brown, Thorsby, Senior

Christian Fortner, Thorsby, Senior

Landon Messer, Billingsley, Senior

Jackson Abbott, Maplesville, Sophomore

Kane Belk, Thorsby, Senior

Jarrett Baker, Isabella, Senior

Anthony Fjeldstad, Isabella, Sophomore

RUNNING BACK

LINEBACKER

Christin Brown, Maplesville, Senior

Timothy Bradley, Maplesville, Senior

Taylor Arrington, Billingsley, Junior

Cade Williams, CCHS, Senior

Ryan Morrow, Maplesville, Junior

Chase BirchďŹ eld, Thorsby, Senior

Jacob Lockhart, Thorsby, Junior

Deonte Williams, Jemison, Senior

RECEIVER

DEFENSIVE BACK

Blake Henderson, Isabella, Senior

Jakavian Mckenzie, Maplesville, Senior

Tyler Jackson, Thorsby, Senior

A.J. Jackson, Jemison, Senior

Dawson Rohrbough, Verbena, Senior

Griffin Farris, CCHS, Senior

Cole Farris, Thorsby, Senior

Jonathan Alstott, Isabella, Senior

OFFENSIVE LINE Colin Tillery, Jemison, Junior Charles Biggs, Verbena, Senior Jonathan Lowery, Jemison, Junior Branden Evans, Isabella, Junior

KICKOFF 2018

St. Vincentâ€™s Orthopedics, PC

KICKOFF 2018

JHS LINEMEN EMPLOY PHILOSOPHY OF PHYSICALITY Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

he Jemison Panthers will be led during the 2018 season by the players that make up the offensive and defensive line units. Several of the athletes play both ways, and they bring experience to the field regardless of which side they line up on. “It all starts with our center and filters out to our guards and tight ends,” Clements said. “We run very simple plays, but we block in a lot of different ways.” Relationships are important for every unit of the team, but along the offensive line it often gets ratcheted up even

KICKOFF 2018

more. “A lot of them have gotten an extensive amount of playing time,” Clements said. “They’re very comfortable with each other.” Having trust that your teammates lined up next to you are going to do their job is key. The coaching staff and the players are confident that cohesion has been established. “In order for us to be successful, they’re going to have to be successful,” Clements said. “For us, it really does start up front.” Making sure that everyone knows their assignment and is on the same page is the job of junior center Colin Tillery. It is a responsibility that he has become accustomed to over the years since he started

playing the position in youth league. The center and quarterback are two players that are guaranteed to touch the ball on every offensive snap. According to Tillery, he has been snapping the ball to Martin for years prior to high school. Martin is one of his best friends. After the offensive success the past couple of years centered around Eric Evans, his graduation means that the production will now come from a committee of running backs. “You know that if you get your block, they can get the yards you need,” Tillery said. “You never take a play off, because you know at any minute they can bust one.”

The battles in the trenches will decide whether Jemison continues the recent production on the ground despite the loss of Evans. “We block the same way no matter who the running back is,” senior tight end/linebacker Patrick Pickett said. What a difference a year makes for the offensive line, which was full of youth and first time varsity starters a year ago. Now they are a veteran unit that the coaches are leaning heavily on. As a lineman, junior Jonathan Lowery enjoys playing for a coach like Clements, who maintains a philosophy of physicality and wants to establish the ground game. “It’s a lot of fun, because you really get to show off your

Jemison

PANTHERS

JEMISON BAND Ashley Adams, Marissa Adams, Bronson Allemand, Emma Allred, Constance Anderson, Ryleigh Anderson, Savannah Anderson, Estefany Arguello, Nathan Bailey, Hailey Bice, Grace Ann Biel, Elijah Bittle, Seth Bittle, Austin Black, Bryanna Blackmon, Austin Blalock, Suzie Blue, Diego Borraz, Emily Brant, Levi Burchﬁeld, Elizabeth Carden, Taylor Carden, Audrey Carlee, Alexis Carr, Destiny Casale, Alex Castelazo, Ben Champagne, Peyton Chancellor, Hannah Grace Childress, Alexis Cleckler, Bethany Coffee, Cassidy Dansby, Zully Del Valle, Bailey Elliott, Brynn Elliott, Hannah Ellison, Brayden Endress, Emily English, Logan Frye, Ossiel Galindo, Stephanie Garcia, Jace Gardner, Ezme Garmex, Patrick Garrett, Ruben Gonzalez, Marissa Graggs, Kaitlin Hanby, Madison Haney, Caitlyn Harris, Jack Hayes, Dalia Hernandez, Luis Hernandez, Emily Hoyt, Madison Isbell, Ethan Ivy, Haley Joiner, Brookelyn Keenum, Taylor Lane, Braden LaRocca, Emily Leachman, Ezra Leachman, Gracie Ledbetter, Heather Lindsey, Emily Loggins, McKenzi Luster, Frida Maldonado, Wendy Martinez, Grace Means, Juliet Mendoza, Jacob Monks, Breyanna Mosley, Jeferson Perez, Addyson Plier, Ashley Porter, Camryn Pritchard, Brandy Putnam, Josh Quesenberry, Nathan Quesenberry, Esperanza Ramirez, JT Roberts, Terrie Roberts, Eli Rowe, Dallas Sadler, Ty Scott, Yesenia Serrano, Trey Sewell, Haley Simmons, Brisco Smith, Gracie Smith, Jacylin Smith, James Smith, Noah Smith, Lindsey Spain, Jordan Sturgis, Karley Tillery , Karley Tillery, Alex Torres, Abigail Vansant, Gabe Vargas, Lesly Vargas, Itzyhar Villegas, Ashley Walker, Briana Watson, Marli Wood, Abigail Wright

Don’t let pain stop your drive. When you’re moving, you don’t need pain to slow you down. Brookwood Baptist Health Specialty Care Network wants to keep you in the game. Michael Patterson, M.D., is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with nearly 20 years of experience and a special interest in sports medicine. Trust him to help you get back in your element. Call (205) 663-8590 or visit bbhcarenetwork.com to book an appointment.

Specialty Care Network Sports Medicine & Orthopedics MICHAEL PATTERSON, M.D. Sports Medicine & Orthopedics

1210 7th Street South Clanton, AL 35045

KICKOFF 2018

ROSTER 2 Patrick Pickett 3 Tarun Varner 4 Devon Moore 5 Jahvon Simon 6 Daniel Martin 7 Hunter Lowery

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

9 10 11 12 13 14

Hayden Robinson Hunter Baker Tyrik Archie Noah Gilliland Austin Wyatt James Wright

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

16 17 18 20 21 23 24 25 26 27 28 28 30 31 32 33 34 36 37 40 41 42

Quindarrius Grayson Fernando Prado Sasha Davison Caleb Driskill A.J. Jackson Jonathan Wolfe Jesse Prado Will Turner Hayden Newman Luke Mitchell Andrew Milford Hugo Guadalupe Daniel Maddox Rodrigo Flores J.T. Taylor Alex DeWitt Ryan Harris Carson Brown Alex Davison T.J. Nix Brandon Mendez Michael Lutz

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

43 44 50 51 54 55 58 61 62 64 67 68 69 70 71 72 74 75 76 79

Colton Forester Deonte Williams Colin Tillery Mason Hadden Skylor Reeves Matt Brasher Michael Nance Andreas Martinez Jacob Anderson Conner O’Toole Jonathan Lowery Chase Lang Eli Brasher Colin Hayes Keith Adams J’Ray Smitherman Alex Schrader Jakob Fridy Carlos Hill Brian Gutierrez Jonathan Smith

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

JEMISON CHEERLEADERS Makenna Wiseman, Erristen Evans, Mattie Pace, Sadie Henry, Emily Fricke, Emily Mims, Mckenzie Cleckley, Morgan Smitherman, Brianna Poe, Courtney Moore, Bella Gilliland, Mary Haysley Gillespie, Brianna Wakeﬁeld

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David Nash Javae Swindle Undra Rush Brit Roshon Donny Eslinger

COACH Van Clements fourth season (10-21)

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 23: at Thorsby Aug. 31: at Greensboro Sept. 7: Central Tuscaloosa* Sept. 14: Montevallo (homecoming) Sept. 21: at Chilton County* Sept. 28: Open Oct. 5: at Bibb County* Oct. 12: Marbury* Oct. 19: at Demopolis* Oct. 26: Shelby County* Nov. 2: West Blocton *region game

ASSISTANTS Steve McCord Daryl Lowery

2017 RESULTS Bibb County (loss, 14-7) Chilton County (win, 21-20)

2-minute drill CLASS 5A, REGION 3

at Billingsley (win, 39-6) Sumter Central (loss, 26-23) Central Tuscaloosa (win*, 3455) at Marbury (loss, 15-13) Calera (loss, 41-14) at Dallas County (win, 49-28) at Demopolis (loss, 48-7) at Shelby County (win, 28-27) *Central Tuscaloosa forfeited the win

Eric Evans, who had been a workhorse running the ball for Jemison in recent years, means that production will now have to be spread out amongst a committee of backs. Luckily for the Panthers, they have an experienced offensive line that remains mostly intact from a season ago. Seniors Deonte Williams and Patrick Pickett are a pair of forces to be reckoned with at linebacker, while the secondary will look to make plays on the ball in the air. Each layer of the starting defense is loaded with seniors that have seen a variety of offensive attacks during their time at Jemison. The Panthers will rely heavily on a roster packed with experience to lead yet another postseason run.

PLAYOFFS at Vigor (loss, 55-7) SEASON OUTLOOK Van Clements enters his fourth season as head coach at Jemison, two of those seasons ended with a trip to the playoffs. The Panthers will continue to do much of the same in terms of approach and physical style. However, the graduation of

strength and push people around,” Lowery. Just like Tillery, Lowery has always had the size to be a natural fit along the offensive front. He plays right tackle

and defensive tackle. “On offense you have to be more disciplined and go with the snap count and cadence, but on defense you have more range,” Lowery said. n

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Chilton Christian

PATRIOTS CCA DEDICATED TO BUILDING FOOTBALL PROGRAM Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS

ootball is back at Chilton Christian Academy following a year absent from competition. Despite the year away, head coach David Reiter sees progress in the players from where they were two years ago, when the school last organized a team. According to Reiter, the team continued working on their strength and conditioning in preparation for the possible return of football in 2018. “I spent a year building trust [with players], and getting them to do things that they never though they could have done,” Reiter said. The reason behind not playing last season was a lack of students trying out for the team. “This year we’ve had a lot of participation,” Reiter said. The Patriots will play six-

2-minute drill

ROSTER 2 Gavin Reiter 3 Justin Bice 5 Zach Lyon 7 Brandon Reiter 8 Joseph Bracken 13 Donavan Norcross

So. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. 8th

man football instead of the traditional style of 11 players on the field per team that the rest of the county plays. According to Reiter, the primary differences that players have to adjust to in the six-man game is that the quarterback cannot run and he also becomes an eligible receiver after handing the ball off. “It takes a lot of time to get used to, but we just keep working on it in practice,” senior Justin Bice said. Four seniors help make up the CCA roster, which is far more than the one senior it had two years ago. “You can tell the difference on the field when the seniors are out there,” Reiter said. “They’re more mature and confident.” Bice plays running back and middle linebacker, and his goal for the season is to win some games and challenge for the postseason. According to Bice, he spent

a lot of time working on improving his speed during the year off. He is ready to show the results of that hard work. “We’ve got probably the best team that we’ve had in a while out here,” Bice said. “We’ve worked to the point where we hope to win a lot of games.” The entire senior group is ecstatic that football is back and an option during their senior year. “It’s a real big role that you have to play as a leader of the team,” Bice said. “I’m ready just to get out there and play.” Depth at multiple positions is a luxury that Reiter will have at his disposal. That was not always the case in previous years.

CHRISTIAN FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION (CFA)

ASSISTANTS Jay Norcross

COACH David Reiter ﬁrst season

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 9: Hope Aug. 17: at Clay County Aug. 24: at Cornerstone Aug. 31: at Victory-Millbrook

35 44 55 55 70 90

John Reese Campbell So. Jakob Reiter Sr. Houston Bice Fr. Andrew Shirley So. Brock Reiter So. Joseph Kasper Fr.

“I’ve got more than one quarterback capable of doing whatever we need them to do, and running backs that can rotate in and out,” Reiter said. “We’ve never had all of those come together at the same time.” Despite an energized feeling surrounding the program heading into 2018, Reiter is making sure that the players do not lose site of the goals at hand. “This is still a building year, and I’m not expecting miracles,” Reiter said. “Most of these boys have never really played football or been coached a whole season. We really want to build the football program, and we believe that the school can continue to grow if we do that.” n

Sept. 7: Brooklane Sept. 14: at Marion Sept. 21: at Connecuh Sept. 28: Marshall (homecoming) 2017 RESULTS Did not ﬁeld a team

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Dawson Rohrbough

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Verbena

RED DEVILS VHS LOOKING TO TURN THINGS AROUND Written by J.R. TIDWELL Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

a slot receiver after taking some snaps, while the Red Devils return to Class 1A. he Verbena “Last year I played Red Devils quarterback for awhile,” he ended the 2015 said. “I like it, but I love season with receiver. That’s what I have an 8-4 record been training for my whole and a two-game stint in the life. That’s what I played in playoffs. (youth football.) I like catchThe next year in 2016 ing the ball.” VHS moved up to Class 2A Slot receivers generally and finished at 6-5, this time get shorter passes inside, getting put out in the open- meaning they are more about ing round of the postseason. maintaining possession and Then 2017 rolled around, getting first downs than and Verbena ended up going making home run plays. 0-10. Things like that will be According to senior important to the Red Devils Dawson Rohrbough, the as they try to return to their Red Devils were plagued winning ways. by injuries last year, which “We are going to have contributed to the season to do everything right,” turning out less than ideal Rohrbough said. “We can’t for the team. mess up. If we mess up once, “We want the team to that might be the game.” be better than last year,” Staying healthy will also Rohrbough said. “Last year be a goal for VHS this year. we had a bunch of injuries, “We are trying to get evwhich was bad. A lot of erybody eating right, coming people couldn’t play. We lost to workouts and getting in our quarterback for the seashape so they don’t get hurt,” son in about the third game. Rohrbough said. I want to go positive this On one hand, becoming year. I’m looking forward to a senior on a football team having everyone back healthy often thrusts a player into a this year.” leadership position, but on Rohrbough may be a key the other it marks the final player in Verbena’s efforts to year of playing for their alma have a better season in 2018. mater. He returns to his role as “I have been thinking

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2-minute drill CLASS 1A, REGION 4 COACH Tyler Kelley second season (0-10) VERBENA CHEERLEADERS Janiya White, Anna Hall, Madison Kelley, Jenae Pierce, Allie Friday, Mykhia Rawlinson, Amiiya Williams, Macey Kelley, Savanna Woods

ASSISTANTS Jeremy White Robby Sauers 2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 31: Thorsby Sept. 7: Open Sept. 14: at Billingsley* Sept. 21: at Wadley* Sept. 28: at Highland Home Oct. 5: at Autaugaville* Oct. 12: Notasulga* Oct. 19: at Lanett* Oct. 26: Loachapoka* (homecoming) Nov. 1: Isabella *region game 2017 RESULTS Isabella (loss, 54-8)

about it,” Rohrbough said. “It’s sad that I’m a senior and going to be leaving (after the school year), but I’m going to try to push these guys that are younger than me in the right direction. I am going to try and make them do the right thing and get better. I didn’t feel it last year when the seniors were talking about it. I really didn’t think about it, but I’m thinking about it now. I am going to go out and do my best. My goal for myself is to play harder than I played the last play. I want to play 110 percent every play.” 38

KICKOFF 2018

at R.C. Hatch (loss, 56-14) Thorsby (loss, 48-0) at Aliceville (loss, 36-0) at West Blocton (loss, 33-6) Billingsley (loss, 47-14) at Keith (loss, 50-6) Francis Marion (loss, 26-0) at Autaugaville (loss, 36-30) Berry Fayette (loss, 20-12) SEASON OUTLOOK The Verbena Red Devils are looking for a bounce back season following a winless campaign in 2017. Tyler Kelley enters his second year as head coach at his alma mater. The Red Devils will have to endure a stretch of four straight road games in the heart of the season, three of which are region games against Billingsley, Wadley and Autaugaville. If Verbena can survive the gauntlet of games slated for Sept. 14 to Oct. 5, they could be in for a strong finish with three of the final four games at home. The open date during the second week of the season may prove to be the most crucial week of practice the Red Devils encounter, because it has the ability to set the tone for the remainder of the season. Eleven seniors help make up the roster. They will be looking to end their final season on a high note.

Rohrbough cites Lanett, Wadley and Highland Home as some of the toughest opponents coming up this year. The Red Devils will open their regular season playing county foe Thorsby, who defeated VHS 48-0 in 2017. As for his time remaining in a Red Devil uniform, Rohrbough said he will remember the relationships with his coaches “and my friends out there” most when looking back on his high school playing days. “One of my best friends is a junior, so I have to leave him here,” he said. n

ROSTER 4 Jacob Sanders 5 Zion Smith 6 Tyler Abbott 9 Ethan Lezama 10 Jacob Marino 12 Nathaniel Morris 14 Cody Barber

Sr. Fr. Sr. Jr. 8th So.

16 24 25 26 50 51 52

Bailey Higgins Rekell Ray Dawson Rohrbough Jacob Brown Brandon Wells Jacob Walker Charles Biggs

Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr.

54 55 58 60 62 67 70

Adrienne Jenkins Isaac Gingo Dustin Davis Taylor Rutland Marvin Rico-Lopez Logan MayďŹ eld Cory Edwards

Sr. So. 8th Jr. So. Sr. So.

72 77 80 82 82

Wyatt Blan Kevin Rico-Lopez Jacob Mims Tyler Rigby Dylan Gentry

Sr. So. So.

VERBENA BAND Elizabeth Mims, Bryar Butler, Ezekiel Sewell, Ethan Miller, Angel Abbott, Deanna Brasher, Conner Bice, Bailey Coggins, Emilee Culver, John Cubbison, Rhiana Brown, Laliah Benjamin, Kailyn Messing, Melia Tyus, Jerica Wells, Samari Ray, Reanna Cleckler, Nyla Barnett, Audreonna Ray, Lacey Drake, Gabrielle Edwards, Alexis Thomas

KICKOFF 2018

Billingsley

BEARS BEARS LOOK TO GET BACK TO BUSINESS Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

Morton is relying heavily on Messer and the rest of the seniors to help keep the team illingsley will look focused on the task at hand to set the tone this and the goals in front of them. season up front Messer plays right guard on along the offenoffense and rotates from end to sive and defensive tackle along the defensive line. lines. “It’s a lot to take in when you One of the key players in play both sides,” Messer said. making sure that takes place is “On defense, you’re constantly senior Landon Messer. wondering where the ball’s at.” Messer has felt his leadership He has the typical build of role on the team change now a lineman, and as a result has that he is a senior. been playing up front since “I’ve got be a role model and seventh grade. help teach these guys that are According to Messer, playing coming up,” Messer said. in the trenches is an individual New head coach Marvin battle of physical want-to on

J.T. Lawrence Ricky Atcheson Jud Cavey

2-minute drill CLASS 1A, REGION 4 COACH Marvin Morton ﬁrst season ASSISTANTS Josh Robinson

KICKOFF 2018

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 24: at Keith Aug. 31: Isabella Sept. 7: at Loachapoka* Sept. 14: Verbena* Sept. 21: Open Sept. 28: Prattville Christian Oct. 5: at Wadley* Oct. 12: Autaugaville* (homecoming) Oct. 19: at Notasulga* Oct. 26: Lanett* Nov. 1: at Thorsby *region game 2017 RESULTS Flomaton (loss, 53-7) Jemison (loss, 39-6) at Keith (loss, 42-36)

Landon Messer

every snap. Success is dependent on winning the majority of those battles. In many ways, an offensive play call starts and ends up front. Every play is dependent on the proper blocking to accompany it. “If one person messes up, the

whole play is done,” Messer said. As a guard, he enjoys the opportunity to showcase his run blocking skills. “I like when we’re doing a trap play,” Messer said. “I’ll pull and catch somebody off guard.” The lines have to be a

Francis Marion (loss, 30-20) at Autaugaville (win, 46-14) at Verbena (win, 47-14) R.C. Hatch (win, 34-32) at Thorsby (loss, 47-12) Aliceville (loss, 56-20) Dallas County (loss, 30-14)

program was faced with a year ago. Billingsley’s roster is senior heavy, which is a big difference from last season when the Bears only had one senior. Morton wants the Bears to compete in every game and in turn gain respect among fans and opponents. Billingsley has some athletes returning that includes an experienced group of linemen that will look to create running lanes on offense and penetrate the opposing backﬁeld on defense. The season is already off to a far better start than 2017 with the new bleachers. Now it is up to the team to build upon the positives.

SEASON OUTLOOK Things seem to be headed in the right direction at Billingsley heading into 2018. The Bears have hired Marvin Morton as head coach and have new bleachers lining Mims Field, which means that the team will be able to play actual home games this season. Morton is coming in with the goal of laying the groundwork for the future and creating a form of consistency that will help erase the turbulent times that the

ROSTER 2 Malik Callens 3 Timothy Cooper 4 Walker Motley 5 Cameron Cook 7 Taylor Arrington 8 Brisen Tatum

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

9 11 13 15 22 24

Devin Blackmon Levi Arington Carlton McCary Triston Tatum Davory Huffman Johnny Carroll

cohesive unit on both sides of the ball. That comes about through developing relationships in more ways than just practice. The Bears have a veteran group along the offensive line that have been playing together since before junior high. “Outside and inside of football, it’s [relationships] always been pretty strong,” Messer said. Last year, Billingsley went through some tough times with the bleachers at Mims Field being condemned just weeks prior to the start of the season and were forced to play its home games at Marbury High school. It was not ideal by any means, but something that the Bears were forced to deal with. “Last year upset all the guys,” Messer said. “We kind of lost the games before we even got there.” Despite the turbulent times, Billingsley still managed to wins three games in 2017 during a winning streak in the middle of the season. New bleachers have since been installed, and Mims Field is set to host games yet again during the 2018 season. According to Messer, going through that difficult experience has helped make the team mentally tougher. “We’re up for any challenge,” Messer said. n

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

42 51 53 57 59 60

Kyle Kizor Chezney Thornton Jontavious Todd Justin Thompson Josh Dobbins Ty Rawlinson

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

61 62 65 71 75 79

Landon Messer Matthew Shanholtzer Seth McGowin Tripp Glass Ian Bing Matthew McNeal

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

BILLINGSLEY CHEERLEADERS Jamya Callens, Shelby Donaldson, Bailee Kirkley, Cassidy Letlow, Cherissa Cutler, Maegan Motley, Preslee Pittman, Tori Hilyer, Ashlon Harrison, Laney Acreman, Hannah Emﬁnger, Harleigh Caver

GOOD LUCK BEARS! KICKOFF 2018

Christian Fortner

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Thorsby

REBELS COMFORTABLE IN THE POCKET Written by ANTHONY RICHARDS Photograph by BRANDON SUMRALL

hristian Fortner of Thorsby enters his senior season as arguably the top quarterback in Chilton County. What makes Fortner so dangerous is the ability to pick up yards and find the end zone both through the air and on the ground. Since Fortner began playing quarterback five years ago, it has been a continual learning curve and something he has become more comfortable with each year that has passed. “I’ve done it for so long now, that it feels like there’s less pressure than there was before,” Fortner said. As the quarterback position has become more natural for Fortner, the team success has followed a similar path. Fortner’s first year starting at the varsity level included its share of growing pains for him and the rest of the team, as the Rebels made drastic improvement to go from a regular season record of 1-9 to 7-2. “That first year [as a starter] showed me how much I needed to work to improve my game,” Fortner said. “It made me want to do anything I could to not go 1-9 again.” Fortner had not played

quarterback until eighth grade when he was inserted into the position due to an injury. Prior to that, he had mostly played tight end. It is safe to say that Fortner has adjusted to the position and the natural leadership role that comes with it. Having the ball in his hands is nothing new to Fortner, who also plays guard on the Thorsby basketball team. Reading the defensive scheme and making quick decisions is relatable, whether it is on the gridiron or the hardwood. “When you’ve got the ball in your hands, you always have a chance to make a play,” Fortner said. Passing is always a constant focal point of improvement for quarterbacks, no matter what level they play at. This is no different for Fortner. However, he has also worked on improving his leg strength, which should allow him to be an even more dynamic runner. The team as a whole has been playing together for some time, especially the current group of seniors that Fortner is a part of. “We’ve been playing together since we were in the youth league,” Fortner said. “We’ve always just jelled together as a team. We know how each other plays and know how to help one another.” Fortner is quick to admit KICKOFF 2018

ROSTER 1 Jacob Lockhart 2 Brody Barnett 3 Tyler Jackson 3 A.J. Smith 4 Chance Elrod 5 Brody Conway 5 Luke Davis 7 Tyler Eddings 8 Clay Wilson

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

9 9 10 11 13 14 16 21 24

Brady Watson Chandler Stephens Chase Birchﬁeld Tyler Ray Cole Hight Tucker Patterson Slate Phillips Caleb Davis Brent Jones

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

25 34 50 50 52 54 54 57 59

Christian Fortner Cole Farris Kane Belk Noah Littlejohn Kobe Davis Henry Wilson Michael Bolt Jorge Prado Kohen Davis

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

62 72 74 75 77 79 81

Alex Brown Josh Jones Chase Rollan Jamarias Hayes Chris Arledge Luke Peek Sawyer Sellers

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

THORSBY CHEERLEADERS Calissa Pledger, Keelin West, Emily Jones, Paityn Lovelady, Jaycie Porter, Amberly Davenport, Alivia Brown, Lindsey Wood, Lilly Porter, Karlee Kincaid, Kassidy Payne, Hanna Giles, Caitlyn Birchﬁeld, Alexa Forrest, Kathryn Taylor, Destinee Scott, Madison Fulmer, Hannah Henry

that without his offensive line, very little gets accomplished. “I rely on them a lot,” Fortner said. “Our line has worked their butts off. I trust them and know that they’re going to give their best on every play.” 44

KICKOFF 2018

That same trust extends to the receiving corps and in the backfield, where the relationships that have developed over the years present a certain chemistry that will be at the center of the Thorsby offensive approach. n

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ASSISTANTS Billy Jackson Trae Bowen Tim Fortner Russell Ricks Drew Wood Jarrett Ricks

2-minute drill CLASS 2A, REGION 4 COACH Daryl Davis second season, second stint at school (18-33)

2018 SCHEDULE Aug. 23: Jemison Aug. 31: at Verbena Sept. 7: at Horseshoe Bend* Sept. 14: LaFayette* Sept. 21: Vincent* (homecoming) Sept. 28: at Isabella Oct. 5: at Reeltown* Oct. 12: Fayetteville* Oct. 19: Open Oct. 26: at Central Coosa* Nov. 1: Billingsley *region game

2017 RESULTS Prattville Christian (win, 32-7) Francis Marion (win, 29-28) at Verbena (win, 48-0) R.C. Hatch (win, 28-22) at Central Coosa (win, 54-12) at Aliceville (loss, 18-0) Billingsley (win, 47-12) at Keith (win, 34-22) Isabella (loss, 34-6) PLAYOFFS Geneva County (win, 42-14) at Goshen (loss, 42-8) SEASON OUTLOOK Expectations surround the Thorsby football program after a surprise season that saw the Rebels win a game in the playoffs. A majority of the group that helped orchestra that postseason run is back and looker for even

more in 2018. Senior Christian Fortner returns at quarterback and has some dangerous targets to throw to on the outside, including fellow senior wide outs Tyler Jackson and Cole Farris. Jacob Lockhart showed explosive abilities with the ball in his hands a year ago and will be a primary option in the backfield along with Chase Birchfield. Birchfield is a senior and also helps anchor a strong front seven from his middle linebacker position. Thorsby’s defense had a knack for forcing turnovers in 2017, something they will look to continue in the upcoming season. With proven talent on both sides of the ball, the Rebels should be an entertaining team to watch all season long.

THORSBY BAND Anna Speakman, Kandace Clayton, Abbie Wells, Maddie Day, Ashlin Chance, Kaylee Veazey, Nathan Rosas, Anna Ledet, CJ Cofer, Elizabeth Cofer, Brylie Posey, Brooke Edge, Emily Mims, Savannah Edge, Kara Gore, Bailee Cleckler, Noelia Flores, Alejandra Alcala, McKenzie Harper, Jacob Harper, Lilly Dorminey, Chris Knight, Makayla Marler, Josh Bolt, Laura Ann Hayes

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