The Zone

THE

ZONE ESCAMBIA ACADEMY | ESCAMBIA COUNTY | FLOMATON NORTHVIEW | T.R. MILLER AND W.S. NEAL A Special Publication of The Atmore Advance and The Brewton Standard

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WELCOME! Football in this part of the state is important to small town life.

For the next several weeks, local and area teams will battle on the gridiron, chasing titles and forming new memories.

We are very excited to be bringing you all the action.

Every week, we’ll highlight the top plays and playmakers from each team.

For all of you that have been waiting for high school football to kick off, wait no longer.

The 2020 season is here!

EA

4

ECHS

7

Flomaton

9

Northview

12

TRM

15

WSN

18

Features

20

Bands, Cheer

34

H.S. sched.

37

GOOD LUCK

TO ALL TEAMS DURING THE 2020 SEASON! From

The Atmore Advance & The Brewton Standard

Escambia Academy

cougars

4 | Football 2020

Getting back to the gridiron

2020 Escambia Academy Cougars 1. Maliki Haynes 2. Devin Kelly 3. Landon Sims 4. Sam Fields 5. Randall Bonds 6. Jacob Lee 7. Parker Robinson 8. Christian Crook 10. Jaden Santiago 11. Tyler Ragan 14. Kevin Farrish 17. Tyler Ray-Cloud 18. Sam Thompson 20. Brodie Phillips 21. Caleb Davis 22. Daughtry McGhee 24. TJ Riley 25. Coleby Sims 27. Josh Spruill 28. ST Clarke 32. Luke Bell 45. Meheki White 50. Hunter Smith 52. Jackson Dortch 53. DJ Lyons 54. Chris Long 55. Riley Baggett 56. Brady Howell

57. Troy Fountain 58. Blake Hardy 59. JJ Stevenson 60. Nick Cain 61. Zeke McGhee 70. CJ Bell 70. Jacob Reid 72. Charlie Sasser 77. Benard Smith 84. Coleman Dyess 86. Timmy Doerr

Escambia Academy hasn’t skipped a beat.

The Cougars came back this summer in shape, and are ready to start their 2020 campaign.

Last season, EA finished as the Alabama Independent School Association Class 2A state runner up, falling to rival Autauga Academy in the title game.

Head coach Hugh Fountain said given that the COVID-19 pandemic ended inschool instruction in March, it’s been an odd offseason.

“It’s put a lot of responsibility on the kids because they were out for a while,” Fountain said. “We had to send workouts to them at home. When they came back from home, they seemed liked they had been doing them because we came back in fairly good strength.”

Fountain said the team has had an outstanding summer of work, and has transitioned well with the new virus guidelines of sanitization and social distancing.

“They’ve adjusted pretty well I think,” he said. “It’s to me a tribute to how much they love to play. They’re staying focused on what they got to do. I told them that this is one year we don’t have much control over a lot of stuff.”

This year, EA is in Region 2 with Patrician, Wilcox Academy, Southern and AA. On region play, Fountain said this year will be a little tougher with Southern and Wilcox, along with the addition of Autauga Academy. Since the newest reclassification realignment, the Cougars haven’t had the Generals in their region in two seasons.

Southern is the defending Class 1A

state champion.

“Patrician is in it, too,” he said. “When you look at those guys, that’s a pretty tough regional schedule.”

Offensively, returning starter Landon Sims will be the Cougars’ quarterback.

Fountain said Sims is athletic because he runs well and is accurate on the throw.

Christian Crook, Devan Kelly and Jadaniel Nettles will comprise the running backs corps this season.

On the wing at wide receiver, Fountain said Maliki Haynes, Randall Bonds, Tyler Cloud and Daughtry McGhee will see action in the slot position.

Fountain said four returning starters are playing on the offensive line, including Troy Fountain, Chris Long, Brady Howell and JJ Stevenson.

“The good thing is one of those guys is a senior,” the coach said.

Fountain said a battle is brewing for the right guard position between Riley Baggett, DJ Lyons, TJ Riley, Jackson Dortch, Christian Lee, Jacob Lee and CJ Bell.

Fountain said defensively, the Cougars will feature an athletic and fast bunch.

Hunter Smith, Nick Cain, Howell, Sam Thompson, Christian Lee and Meheki White fill out the front on the line.

Barnes, Hunter Smith, TJ Riley and Sam Thompson are at the ends.

Nick Brady, Christian Lee, Chris Long and White will play at linebacker this year.

In the secondary, Devin Kelley and Crook will hold the fort down. McGhee, Sims, Kevin Parrish and Jacob Lee also will have secondary duties.

Robinson and Sims will handle the kicking and punting duties, respectively.

Football 2020 | 5

6 | Football 2020

Escambia

blue devils

County

Football 2020 | 7

ECHS is ready for action Escambia County is ready to get going.

The Blue Devils football program is coming off a 2019 campaign, where they finished 5-5 and outside of the postseason.

ECHS head football coach Scott Mason said the boys have had an outstanding summer given the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It has bee a pleasure to coach these kids,” Mason said. “We knew we had some issues last year as far as old things that were still hanging around. Some things we needed to change.”

Mason said right now, coaches are trying to sell the players on a championship program, adding that by the end of last season, the players realized they can do this (win).

“They began to buy in,” he said. “We lost a game we shouldn’t have lost, but it was too late.”

Mason said this year’s team will include a different look.

“Those ninth and tenth grade kids we’ve got some good juniors,” he said.

“They’re drinking the koolaid. They’re really buying into this thing.”

Mason said he believes this year’s team will be highly competitive.

This season, the Blue Devils face Jackson, Mobile Christian, W.S. Neal, St. Michael, Vigor and Williamson in Class 4A, Region 1 action.

Mason said the three teams that came into the region, including JHS, Mobile Christian and St. Michael, have made the region that much harder. UMS-Wright, Andalusia and Hillcrest-Evergreen moved out of the region because of

8 | Football 2020

reclassification.

“It’s harder to win now than it was last year,” the coach said. “In Region 1, and I don’t care if you’re 1A up to 7A, Region 1 is a brutal region. From 1A to 7A, it doesn’t matter. If you can make it out of Region 1 in the playoffs, you’re set.

“I’m not saying we will do that,” he added. “Somebody button up the lunch box and tighten up the chin strap.”

Offensively, Anthony McCants is slated to be Escambia County’s quarterback.

Jaden Cunningham, Mason Huggins and Willie Banks will share duties at half back and running back.

Tomorrion Knight, Calvin Nichols, Kaiden Arnold, Kentravious McKenzie, Terry Martin and Carmelo Turner will share responsiblities on the offensive line.

Mason said Turner will see action at tight end and half back as well.

At receiver, the Blue Devils will have Tyson Moorer, Jacobey James, Christian Riley and Tyjerrious Malone.

Defensive coordinator Kashuan Bullard said Aug. 5 that all positions are open for competition, and there’s nothing set in stone.

Bullard said some standouts include Ja’Kanye Hooks and Banks at linebacker; James at safety; Moorer at cornerback, along with Jalen Barnes; Brian Brown and Nehemiah Tucker; and Bryson Williams.

Mason said the kids are hungry.

“We’re going to get after it,” he said.

2020 Escambia County Blue Devils 1. Tyson Moorer 2. Jacobey James 3. Willie Banks 4. Tyjerrious Malone 5. Jacob Dirden 6. Keaundre Richardson 7. Jaden Cunningham 8. Brian Brown 9. Lajavious Johnson 10. Nehemiah Tucker 11. James Whatley 12. Jeremiah George 13. Christian Riley 14. Jalen Barnes 15. Anthony McCants 16. Ray Wiggins 17. Yezyre Williams 18. Michael Johnson 19. Tyzorian Jackson 20. Markavion Dixon 21. Bryson Williams 22. Lorenzo Arnold 23. LaCarlos Thomas 24. Elijah Thomas 26. Mason Huggins 27. Exavion Bradley 28. Cameron Riley

29. Ja’Kanye Hooks 30. Nate Crenshaw 31. Jalen Autrey 32. Keeshan McKenzie 33. Sennie Banks 34. Jamarcus Lee 44. Aaron Calva 50/88. Donovan Robinson 51. Jacorian King 54. Tomorrion Knight 57. Christian Lee 58. Xavier McMillan 60. Rayvon Barnes 61. Jayden Peoples 64. Dezmun Crenshaw 66. Kentravious McKenzie 71. Janerrius Moore 72. Kaiden Arnold 73. Zaccheus Dawson 75. Terry Martin 77. Calvin Nichols 78. Trajan Hollinger 80. Carmelo Turner

hurricanes

Flomaton

Football 2020 | 9

Canes excited about 2020 season Flomaton’s excited to get back on the gridiron as the Hurricanes kick off their 2020 campaign.

The Hurricanes are coming off of a successful 2019 season, finishing 11-2 and in the third round of the Class 3A state playoffs.

Head football coach Doug Vickery said the team is eager to get going.

“We’ve got a bunch of guys coming back,” Vickery said. “I think a lot of people think because we graduated some good seniors, we had a good run.

Those seniors last year won 23 games in two seasons, and a state and region championship.

“We graduated some good players,” he said. “We feel like we’ve got some good guys coming back. A lot of people will be surprised. Our offensive line we feel like is going to be one of our strengths.”

The team captains this year include Jackson Dullard, Travon Brown, Riley McMorris, William Morgan and Rowdy Rutherford.

This season, the Hurricanes will go up against a stout Class 3A, Region 1, which includes Bayside Academy, Chickasaw, Cottage Hill, Excel, Hillcrest-Evergreen and T.R. Miller.

Vickery said this year’s region play will be interesting because some teams moved up and down during the mostrecent reclassification realignment.

Offensively, the Hurricanes will have Zeb Vickery at quarterback.

In the back field, Brown, Jaheem Durant, Peyton Sheets, Damerion Findley, Jaxon Singleton and Deontay Averette will see action at running back.

Eli Dunsford, Steven Head, William

10 | Football 2020

Morgan, Nick Turner, John Cheramie will see action at wide receiver and tight end.

Dullard and Christian McCreary are the fullbacks.

On the offensive line, Rutherford is at center; Mason Dullard and Jeb Davis will be at guard, along with Tyler Wilson and Jackson Reed; and Austin Lambeth and Riley McMorris will see action at tackle.

Defensively, Ki-jana Carter, McCreary, Wilson and Jackson Dullard comprise the defensive line.

Dunsford, Turner, Morgan, Singleton, Durant, Quez Madison and Findley will be at linebacker.

In the secondary, Averette, Brown, Will Smith, JT Spizzirro and Sheets will see action.

Vickery will be the punter, and Nolin Godwin will be the kicker.

2020 Flomaton Hurricanes 72. Miles Adams 22. Deontay Averette 1. Travon Brown 58. Ki-jana Carter 29. Nolan Chavers 47. John Cheramie 12. Tyler Crutchfield 52. Samuel Davis 11. Akayle Dixon 44. Jackson Dullard 78. Mason Dullard 19. Elijah Dunsford 4. Jaheem Durant 31. Jaxson Fillmore 3. Damerion Findley 23. Nolin Godwin 79. Zack Herndon 50. Myles Jackson 57. Forrest Jones 51. Gage Lambert 70. Timothy Lambert 74. Austin Lambeth 25. Ja’quez Madison 6. Triston McCreary 55. James McMorris 42. William Morgan 15. Quinton Odom 88. Micah Presley

54. Jackson Reed 63. Rowdy Rutherford 20. Damian Schreiner 5. Peyton Sheets 8. Jaxon Singleton 10. Will Smith 18. Christopher Spann 17. Ryder Spence 2. Nicholas Vanhoosen 7. Zeb Vickery 16. Tyrell Whatley 59. Jack White 65. Tyler Wilson 35. Braden Woods

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Northview

chiefs

12 | Football 2020

Senior leadership is key

2020 Northview Chiefs 1. Trevor Scott 2. Jayden Jackson 3. Jarrett Bodiford 4. Kaden Odom 5. Logan Misenar 6. Jamrakus Jefferson 8. Keyshawn Breedlove 9. Tony Antrim 11. Braxton Peebles 12. Clay Kittrell 13. Greyson Burkette 14. Dakota DeSpain 15. Wyatt Scruggs 16. Jesse Hughes 17. Logan Bryan 18. Noah Harigel 19. MJ Smith 20. Gage Eicher 21. William Plato 22. Cameron Partrick 23. Nathan Chavers 24. Luke Bridges 25. James McElhaney 26. Dallas Cleckler 28. Zach Chavers 29. Judson Lee 30. Tyler Daughtery

50. Johnny Windham 51. Aaron Davira 52. Travis Nelson 53. Caden Peterson 54. Steven O’Leary 55. John Michael Ward 57. JD Boyington 60. Drew Albritton 62. Jacob Spence 65. AJ Hasty 77. Caden Garett 78. Joseph Franklin

Northview head football coach Wes Summerford said he’s looking for the seniors to be the leaders of the program as the Chiefs look forward to the start of their 2020 campaign.

The first-year Chiefs coach said he sat down and talked with each of them during the summer. The seniors are Johnny Windham, Jayden Jackson, Logan Bryan, Trevor Scott and Keyshawn Breedlove.

“They’re probably our best athletes in the program,” Summerford said. “I’m really excited to see what they can do this year. I’m really pumped to see this senior group. They’re great kids and great people.”

On season play, Summerford said that’s one of the things he’s really excited to get into.

“When you’re down there in Pensacola at West Florida, you always hear about these special games that take place up in the north end of the county,” he said.

“I’ve talked to a lot of people that say you can’t put your finger on why these small town rivalries are when you travel and play in your conference.

“The Flomaton game, for instance. I’ve heard about the atmosphere, and that it’s unbelievable. The stuff that you see at the small school level I don’t know if you can repeat that anywhere else.”

Summerford added that having Baker, Fla., Escambia Academy and Jay, Fla. within the area makes for a cool atmosphere.

Offensively, junior Clay Kittrell and sophomores Kaden Odom and Dakota DeSpain are battling for the quarterback spot.

“We’ve got more time to make some decisions,” Summerford said, referring

to the late season start in September.

“We’re going to make that decision somewhere within the first week of fall camp. We’ll make that decision then.”

Jamrakus Jefferson, Scott and Jackson will fill the running back dutes.

Jackson is the top runner for the Chiefs.

Summerford said the tight ends position is up in the air, and the team is still trying to figure out who will play there.

Breedlove and Bryan are being looked to to fill in the wide receivers position.

On the front line, Travis Nelson, Steven O’Leary, Windham, John Michael Ward, AJ Hasty and Joseph Franklin will see time in the trenches.

Defensively, a lot of the offensive front will play on the defensive line, Summerford said.

Jefferson and Scott could see action in the middle linebackers spot, and Kittrell is slated to play on the outside, along with Logan Misenar. Nelson and Windham, along with Jackson could play in that position, too, Summerford said.

In the secondary, Breedlove will see action at cornerback; Noah Harigel will be at safety; Bryan will be at safety; and the other cornerback position will be filled as fall camp progresses.

DeSpain and Odom will play in the secondary, too, Summerford said.

Jefferson could be the Chiefs’ punter this year, Summerford said.

Football 2020 | 13

14 | Football 2020

tigers

T.R. Miller

Football 2020 | 15

2020 T.R. Miller Tigers

TRM enters season with winning mindset

T.R. Miller is entering this 2020 season with a winning mindset, head football coach Brent Hubbert said.

The Tigers finished 2019 in the semifinals of the Class 3A state playoffs at 9-5 on the season.

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, players have had to workout on their own to get ready for this year.

Hubbert said the players have done a great job in the off season after being off three months and told to do workouts.

“We had a total of 103 kids show up over the summer,” he said. “I’d say every one of them was between 23-27 days (of participation).”

Hubbert added that he believes last year’s success carried over into the spring and summer.

16 | Football 2020

“I think they’ve carried it over to come in so far with a great mindset of trying to build off of a pretty good finish last year,” he said.

For 2020, the Tigers have six returning starters on offense and seven on defense.

In region play, TRM will compete in Class 3A, Region 1 with Bayside Academy, Chickasaw, Cottage Hill, Excel, Flomaton and Hillcrest-Evergreen.

Hubbert said the Tigers are pretty familiar with Hillcrest-Evergreen.

“You know the caliber of coaches and players when you play them,” he said. “Chickasaw and Cottage Hill are both new teams. The bad thing is that we catch them early and don’t know

SEE PAGE 31

2. Kyle Blevins 3. Brown Thomas 4. Miller Hart 6. Devin Smith 7. Jashaun Williams 8. Brother Peace 9. Earl Dolihite 10. Kameron Capterville 11. Logan Rowell 12. Blake Jernigan 13. Brody Hubbert 14. Landon Lindsey 15. Jacorey Watts 16. Nolan Atkinson 17. Branton McBride 18. Jackson Sullivan 19. Jim Daughtery 20. Trent Cooper 21. Darius Webb 22. Narkavis Campbell 23. Wyn Brittan 24. Jatavius Bruce 26. Bracken Pettis 27. Reco McNeal 28. Sam Kelly 30. Broox Hart 32. Christian Autrey 33. Jarekus Walker

34. Orlando Gandy Jr. 36. Chaz Pierre-Louis 38. Ezra Carpenter 39. Landon Barrentine 40. DJ Fountain 44. Gage Mims 49. Jordan Morgan 50. Ernest Thomas 51. Adam White 53. Tristan Thomas 54. Ed Dolihite 55. Tony McBrayer 57. Cole Kelly 58. Dustin Godwin 59. Mikey Holmes 60. Logan Tieppo 62. Mac Baxter 63. Thomas Lowery 66. John Wesly Sessions 68. Walker Griggers 69. Bodie Hardy 70. Patrick Noble 71. Rockey Brewer 72. Markel Nicholson 73. Nathan Henry 74. Taylor Hartin 78. Zody McMillan

Great things in business are never done by one. They’re done by a team. You can count on us, we are always on your side.

Supporting our area teams.

Football 2020 | 17

W.S. Neal eagles

18 | Football 2020

2020 W.S. Neal Eagles 2. Mario Lane 3. Gavin Leggett 4. Carter Hodges 5. Samuel Bosarge 6. LaKietric Barnes 8. Joe Carroll 9. Isaac Bonam 10. Alex Alvarez 11. Taylor Watson 12. Chasen Collins 14. Jaylen Williams 15. Jordan Sims 16. John Andrews 18. DeJon McCants 19. Caleb Peters 20. Tyler Brooks 21. Alimir Williams 22. DaShawn Smith 23. Antoine Kiser 24. Jaden Stuckey 25. Fabian Loveless 28. Blaketon Johnson 30. Jailyn McWilliams 32. Mylan Agee

33. Antonio McCorvey 35. Konner Reeves 36. Kaden Peters 40. Solomon Crapp 48. Ruben Fantroy 50. Collin Nelson 52. Seth Watson 54. Drayton Gideons 55. Matthew Knight 58. Blake McNew 60. Justin Dubose 62. Elisha Hardy 63. Tristian Baldwin 64. Tristian Nall 65. Joshua Berry 70. John Braxton Rhodes 72. Eli Adkins 73. Cole Driskell 74. Braxton Hicks 77. George Andrews 78. Kaleb Howell 84. Johnathan Carter 85. Langham Parr

Continuing a tradition

W.S. Neal will continue what it does best as the Eagles get set for the 2020 season.

Eagles head football coach Andro Williams said given that the offseason hasn’t been normal, the team has to move as forward.

Williams said there have been adjustments made, but with adjustments come some uncertainty.

“There is some uncertainty with the testing,” he said. “What if something happens? There’s a lot of uncertainty that’s the part that really matters.”

WSN is coming off of a 2-7 season in 2019. The Eagles will compete in Class 4A, Region 1 with Escambia County, Jackson, Mobile Christian, St. Michael, Vigor and Williamson.

On the region, Williams said that it got a lot tougher given that Mobile Christian, Vigor and Jackson were added.

He said the team’s aim is to beat them all.

“If we need to steal one or two of those first region games, that’ll be good for us,” Williams said. “If we come out there with a couple of wins, then we’ll feel pretty good down the road.”

Williams said the goal is to win the region and get in the playoffs.

This season, the Eagles have eight returning starters on offense and defense apiece.

Offensively, there’s a battle for the quarterback spot.

“We probably won’t make a decision in probably some time,” Williams said.

“We might make a decision a week before the season. We’re going to let them battle it out to the end.”

SEE PAGE 31

Football 2020 | 19

Sam Fields

Working hard for a spot Sam Fields’ work on the gridiron hasn’t gone unnoticed.

The Escambia Academy senior wide receiver and hybride defensive back worked to be a fulltime starter in 2019, and is waiting for the coming season.

Fields, at 5—foot-11 and 165 pounds, has been playing football since he was about 8 years old in the peewee league.

He said from the start, he knew he was pretty good at the game.

“In peewee I realized I was tough and pretty good,” Fields said. “Going to (junior varsity) was pretty tough because everybody else was bigger and stronger than you, but I grew into that. I’ve been there.

“I started a couple of games (in 2018) and last year, I was a fulltime starter,” he said.

Fields said it felt good last year to earn a starting role on the team.

“There was a lot of hard work done,” he said. “It felt good to be recognized, and to finally have my spot on the team was great because I was a guy they depend

on.”

Fields said football is his chosen sport because he enjoys being around his teammates.

“It’s the brotherhood and comorodery of it all,” he said. “I like the physicality of it all. It’s the only sport other than rugby or hockey that you can hurt somebody.”

Fields said the main goal for EA this season is the state championship. During the last two years, the Cougars have made it to the state title game, but fell short.

Fields said it’s going to take the team putting it all together to make it to the title game.

“This team has worked just as hard as the team last year,” he said. “It was 7-6 last year at halftime. We were this close, but we just didn’t get it done. We just need to finish the job.”

On his senior season, Fields said the team is going to try and come back and win.

Fields is the son of John and Leah Fields of Barnett Crossroads.

Football 2020 | 21

Tomorrion Knight

A bright soul Tomorrion Knight is a bright soul.

The Escambia County junior offensive and defensive lineman, known as Red on the Blue Devils squad, said he’s ready to get the season started.

Knight has been playing football since he was 4 years old.

He said his whole family played the game, and was born up on it.

“I love everything about the game,” Knight said. “I like the energy… everything.”

For some athletes, it takes some time to get comfortable while competing in their respective sport.

Knight said throughout his time playing football, he’s always wanted to get better.

He said he feels that this season will be a good one, despite having to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s not the best, but we’re working with what we got,” he said.

Knight said a team and individual goal of his is to make state in some fashion, whether during the season or as an ASWA All-State selection.

Knight said he owes his father, Tomorrion Sr., a great deal of gratitude for instilling a love of football in him.

“He taught me everything I know,” Knight said. “He put it in my head that I have the potential to make something of myself.”

Knight said another aspect of the game that was instilled in him was to be better and work harder than everybody else around.

Knight is also the son of Carlada Cooper of Atmore.

Football 2020 | 23

Jayden Jackson

An ability on display

Jayden Jackson never questioned his ability to play football.

The senior Northview running back has been playing the game he loves for about 11 years.

He said he’s always played in an athlete’s role on the field, and it’s a position he loves.

When asked when he felt like he grew into football, Jackson said he’s always felt like he was the best on the field.

“I never questioned my ability,” Jackson said. “When I started studying as far as the game is concerned, my athletic ability grew in waves.”

Jackson said he believes that the Chiefs will have a good season.

“With the younger guys I feel like we’re going to do well,” he said. “We have a lot of young guys who are good. We have a lot of sophomores and juniors who are working hard.”

Jackson, who is one of five seniors on the team, said they’re depending on a lot of the younger guys.

He said you always have to lead by example.

“Don’t do anything to change the team out,” he said. “The team that works hard, they’re going to follow you. Don’t let small bad habits continue. Nip them in the bud so you don’t develop bad habits during the season.”

Jackson said the team is looking forward to the Flomaton and Baker, Fla. games this season.

“We might get to play them in September,” he said. “We want to play Flomaton.”

Jackson said the mindset of the team is that of patience.

“We haven’t really been out of it,” he said. “We’re ready to get out on the field.

It’s to the point where the more time we are together, the better. We haven’t clicked, yet. Sometimes it takes time to build some chemistry.”

Jackson is the son of Apollonia Burt of Century, Fla. He is also the grandson of Doris Baylor.

Football 2020 | 25

Daris Webb and Orlando Gandy Jr.

Their game is fun For T.R. Miller seniors Orlando Gandy Jr. and Darius Webb, the game of football is fun.

Gandy, a 5-foot-9, 195-pound running back and linebacker, and Webb, a 6-foot, 185-pound wide receiver and safety will help lead the Tigers to another successful season.

Both believe that despite the pandemic, they will play this season.

“As long as we keep our distance and follow the rules,” Webb said.

When asked how they’ve adjusted to new team protocols, both said it’s gone well.

“It’s harder trying to exactly find a water bottle that can keep us hydrated throughout practice and workouts,” Gandy said. “Other than that, it’s pretty much the same.”

Webbb said keeping a good social distance is the hardest part, adding that hitting other teammates during practice can be anxiety-inducing depending on the situation.

“We’re not really face to face,” he said.

“We’re not really coughing on each other

when we’re on the ground.”

Both said they’ve played their favorite sport since they were young, and gave different answers to what they like about football the most.

“As for me, all of it,” Gandy said. “I really don’t have a best part. It’s all fun to me.”

Webb said he loves the big games.

Some big games both noted this season included Hillcrest-Evergreen, Flomaton and of course the Murder Creek Rivalry with W.S. Neal.

Webb said he doesn’t have any individual goals. He’s more oriented to want to accomplish team goals.

“A ring,” Webb said. “That’s the biggest goal. I’m not really looking for individual accolades.”

Both said practice has gone well so far in the lead up to the season, adding that it’s all about showing up and doing their jobs.

Gandy is the son of Orlando Gandy Sr. and Sylvia Gandy; and Webb is the son of Porsha and Jevon Pleasant of Brewton.

Football 2020 | 27

Isaac Bonam

Full of life, energy on field As a younster, Isaac Bonam was full of energy.

The W.S. Neal senior is still using that same energy on the football field, and is chomping at the bit to hit the gridiron this season.

Bonam, at 6-foot-1 and 231 pounds, has been playing football since he was 5 years old, all the way from the city league to high school in East Brewton. He’s been a feature on the varsity squad since his freshman year.

Bonam said he loves game day because it gives him a lot of energy.

“I have so much energy,” Bonam said.

“My mom said I had so much energy.

I got in so much trouble in school. I actually started loving it (football).”

Bonam said he started developing as a football player, along with understanding the game, every time he got ready for a game.

“Well, it wasn’t really a moment, but it was a moment where I realized I need to do what I can to prep for the game,” he said. “You do the hard work, and in time

when you get there it’s easy. It’s mostly mental.”

As far as goals for the season, Bonam said he’s got a few of them.

“Playing as a team for one - one mind, one accord,” he said. “Everything going forward with it.”

Football, as a game, has taught Bonham a lot.

“It teaches you discipline, how to be on time and show up,” he said. “Then you got a coach (Andro Williams). Coach teached you things on and off the field.”

Bonam said he’s been taught a lot about respect.

One aspect of being a senior on a football team is leadership.

Bonam said he believes what it takes to be a leader is being quiet and expecting everybody to do their job.

“We need to play as a part of the team,” he said. “Half of the time I speak up, but half the time I don’t.”

Bonam said he does speak up, and it’s when a player needs to improve in an area of their game.

Football 2020 | 29

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30 | Football 2020

CONTINUE FORM PAGE 16 anything about them.”

Offensively, senior Blake Jernigan and junior Miller Hart are competing for the quarterback spot. Hubbert said Jernigan has 25 games under his belt.

“We feel good about both of them,” he said. “We feel like we have two starters. One has more than the other.”

Hubbert said Orlando Gandy Jr., Darius Webb, Narkavis Campbell, DJ Fountain and Jashaun Williams will fill the back field roles as running backs.

“Each one has their own specialty,” Hubbert said. “They’re different in what they do.”

Jarekus Walker, Devin Smith and Wyn Brittan will play at tight end.

On the wing, Trent Cooper, Kyle Blevins, Logan Rowell, Gage Mims,

Nolan Atkinson, Landon Lindsey and Hart will see action at wide receiver.

On the offensive line, Zody McMillan and Ed Dolihite return to lead the trenches.

Hubbert said the other three positions are up in the air.

Defensively, two starters return on the defensive line in Walker and Fountain. Bodie Hardy, a sophomore, has worked his way into playing time in the other vacant spot, Hubbert said.

Linebackers include Gandy and Mims, along with Brittan, Atkinson and Campbell.

Webb, Rowell, Lindsey and Rowell will play at safety.

Webb is returning as the punter, and Bracken Pettis has had some work over the summer at kicker.

CONTINUE FORM PAGE 19 Isaac Bonam, Joe Carroll, LaKietric Barnes, DaShawn Smith, Gavin Leggett and Sam Bosarge are running backs.

Dejon McCants and Taylor Watson will fill the wide receiver slots with Antonio McCorvey and Lagham Parr as tight ends.

On the line, Cole Driskell will play at center; Elisha Hardy and Joshua Berry are at guard; Dawson Lucas and Seth Watson will play at tackle.

Defensively, Matthew Knight,

Bonam, McCorvey and Hardy make up the front four.

Bosarge, Leggett, Smith, Mario Lane and Ruben Fantroy make up the linebackers corps.

In the secondary, Carroll and Alex Alvarez will be safeties; Taylor Watson and Barnes, along with McCants are battling for the corner position, Williams said.

The punter and kicker haven’t been named, but Bosarge will see action at punter, Williams said.

Football 2020 | 31

Providing For Our Community We look for ways to strengthen our community — whatever the activity, our members rely on dependable energy from Southern Pine Electric Co-op.

www.southernpine.org This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

32 | Football 2020

We can help you keep your eye on the ball.

Call today for an appointment.

We care what you see Stress Point Learning Complete Eye Care

Dr. Carl B. McInnish Optometrist

106 W. Jackson St. • 251-867-3635 Like us on Facebook

2151 Ringold Street Flomaton, Alabama

Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender

Football 2020 | 33

Escambia County Band

Hurricanes are a fact of life in Alabama.

BE PREPARED.

Natural Gas can ease the pain if the electricity fails.

Call West Escambia Utilities for your Natural Gas Needs.

251-368-2207

West Escambia Utilities 201 East Louisville Avenue • Atmore, Alabama 36502 34 | Football 2020

T.R. Miller Cheer

Flomaton High School Band

Football 2020 | 35

Escambia Academy Cheer

WSN Cheerleaders

36 | Football 2020

2020 FOOTBALL SCHEDULES

EC EA N

F

T

W

Aug. 21 vs.

Presbyterian, Miss.

Aug. 21 vs.

Presbyterian, Miss.

Sept. 11 at Baker

Aug. 21 vs.

Choctaw County

Aug. 21 vs.

Jackson

Aug. 21 vs.

Excel

Aug. 28 vs.

Glenwood

Aug. 28 vs.

Glenwood

Sept. 18 vs.

Holmes County

Aug. 28 -

Aug. 28 Open

Sept. 4 -

Aug. 28 at Escambia County

Sept. 4 at Patrician*

Sept. 4 at Patrician*

Sept. 25 vs.

North Bay Haven

Sept. 11 vs.

Cottage Hill Christian*

Sept. 4 at Cottage Hill*

Sept. 11 vs.

Wilcox Academy*

Sept. 11 vs.

Wilcox Academy*

Oct. 2 at Walton

Sept. 18 at Chickasaw*

Sept. 11 vs.

Chickasaw*

Sept. 18 vs.

Jay, Fla.

Sept. 18 vs.

Jay, Fla.

Oct. 9 vs.

South Walton

Sept. 25 Open

Sept. 18 vs.

Bayside Academy*

Sept. 25 vs.

Tuscaloosa Academy

Sept. 25 vs.

Tuscaloosa Academy

Oct. 16 Escambia Academy TBD

Oct. 2 vs.

Sparta Academy

Oct. 2 vs.

Sparta Academy

Oct. 23 vs.

Chipley

Oct. 9 vs.

Autauga Academy*

Oct. 9 vs.

Autauga Academy*

Oct. 30 vs.

Jay

Oct. 16 vs.

Northview, Fla.

Oct. 16 vs.

Northview, Fla.

Oct. 23 at Southern*

Oct. 23 at Southern*

Oct. 30 Open

Oct. 30 Open

*denotes region contest

*denotes region contest

Oct. 2 at Bayside Academy* Oct. 9 vs.

Excel* Oct. 16 at Hillcrest-Evergreen*

Sept. 25 at UMS-Wright Oct. 2 at Excel* Oct. 9 vs.

Hillcrest-Evergreen*

Sept. 4 at Vigor* Sept. 11 at Mobile Christian* Sept. 18 vs.

Williamson* Sept. 25 at New Brockton Oct. 2 vs.

St. Michael* Oct. 9 at Jackson*

Oct. 23 vs.

T.R. Miller*

Oct. 16 Open

Oct. 16 at Escambia County*

Oct. 30 vs.

Escambia County

Oct. 23 at Flomaton*

Oct. 23 vs.

Opp

*denotes region contest

Oct. 30 vs.

W.S. Neal

Oct. 30 at T.R. Miller

*denotes region contest

*denotes region contest

Football 2020 | 37

Bringing Strength To

COMM UNITY.

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians proudly supports the tradition of teamwork provided by athletics in our community.

M O V I N G F O R W A R D . G I V I N G B AC K .

ALABAMA NATIVES. ALABAMA NEIGHBORS. 5811 Jack Springs Road • Atmore, AL 36502 • 251.368.9136 poarchneighbors.com • pci-nsn.gov

38 | Football 2020

Football 2020 | 39