Kickoff 2014

KICKOFF 2014 Guide

to football in

Chilton County

Schedules, Rosters, Photos, Analysis, Bands, Cheerleaders

Advertiser The Clanton

The lineup TeAm AnAlySeS

6 Jemison 12 Maplesville 17 Chilton Christian 18 Chilton County 34 Isabella 38 Verbena 41 Billingsley 43 Thorsby 444

N

ON THE COVER: Isabella senior quarterback Tyler Smith is the Chilton County area’s leading returning rusher.

35 yeARS OF CChS FOOTBAll

30 Season summaries PReSeASOn All-AReA TeAm

33 Best at each position

Excitement for a new year

o matter how many football seasons a fan has experienced, there’s always excitement associated with the start of a new season.

So it is with us at The Clanton Advertiser, as we work every summer to bring you Kickoff, our annual high school football preview magazine.

Some players return from the previous season, Dawkins but many others are new, just beginning on their quest to leave their marks in their schools’ history books—and in the minds of the team’s followers.

It’s much the same way with each of the local teams. Regardless of what was accomplished the year before, a new year means a completely new team, needing to

develop chemistry and establish an identity if it is to play up to its potential.

Teams that have struggled the past year look toward the start of a new season with even more anticipation. It’s a fresh start.

A clean slate. A chance to forget the bad memories and forge new, positive ones.

As the season progresses, remember that the Advertiser is your source for high school football coverage. Visit ClantonAdvertiser. com for stories and photos from the games on Friday nights, and see the Weekend newspapers for full coverage.

Kickoff Weekly, which publishes in the newspaper, is a great way to recap the previous week’s action and prepare for the week at hand. Also, “like” the Advertiser on Facebook for live updates from games.

We’re just as excited about the season as you are. See you at the games!

– Stephen Dawkins

Publisher Tim Prince editorial Emily Beckett, writer Stephen Dawkins, managing editor Emily Etheredge, writer Jon Goering, photographer advertising Zack Bates Brandy Clackley CustoMer serviCe Laura Atkins Press and MailrooM Jimmy Ruff, production manager Scott Mims, mailroom manager Malinda Nance, mailroom manager

Kickoff 2014 is published by Clanton Newspapers, Inc., P.O. Box 1379, Clanton, AL 35046, 205.755.5747

Get at least 2x more data with Exede Internet..

During the Big Bang Bonus nus Deal, a we’re our Classic Exede12 plans, s, and threetimes the additional data al allowance a lowance on our Evolution plan!

Call Today!

PROFESSIONAL TECH SRV

(205)280-2578

One-time installation fee may be charged at the time of sale. Minimum 24-month service term. Monthly service fees and taxes apply. Equipment lease fee is $9.99 per month. Speeds are not guaranteed and will vary.

Service is subject to data transmission limits measured monthly. Promotional data limits will revert to original limits after the six-month promotional period ends. Offer may be changed or withdrawn at any time.

Exede is a registered service mark of ViaSat, Inc.

2-minute drill ClASS 5A, RegIOn 4 COACh Jake Hogan (Leeds, 1998) 7-4 in one season ASSISTAnTS Mike Cain Daryl Lowery Doug Milligan Ronnie Parker Anthony Vachris 2014 SCheDule Aug. 22: Shelby Co. Aug. 28: at Chilton Co. Sept. 5: Dallas Co.* Sept. 12: at Demopolis* Sept. 19: at Calera* Sept. 26: Bye Oct. 3: at Helena* Oct. 10: Sumter Central* Oct. 17: Central Tuscaloosa* Oct. 24: at Wilcox Central* Oct. 31: at Park Crossing *-region game 2013 ReSulTS Chilton Co. (win, 34-28, OT) Oak Grove (win, 39-13) at Carbon Hill (win, 39-12) at Bibb Co. (loss, 26-19) Holtville (win, 35-14) West Blocton (win, 21-7) Corner (win, 54-27) at Dora (win, 26-21) at Calera (loss, 52-14) at Maplesville (loss, 49-7) Playoffs at Beauregard (loss, 44-16)

Featured Player: Shawn Poe is among a group of seniors providing leadership as the program copes with the loss of several of last year’s Panthers to college programs.

Jemison

panThers

New stars ready to replace old ones

defense.

But coach Jake Hogan, who is entering his second season at the or this year’s helm, would rather focus on what edition of the Panthers do have. And there’s the Jemison plenty to focus on.

Panthers One could start at the everfootball important quarterback position, team, it where Kevin Nunn returns for his would be junior season a year after finishing easy to focus third in the area with an average on what they don’t have. of 105.6 passing yards per game.

Gone is the team’s Nunn threw for an impressive star, Randy 13 touchdowns, but Hogan said Satterfield, Nunn’s most significant improvewho led ment will come through all Chilton cutting down on County area mistakes. The players with coaching staff 48.7 receiving helped him do yards per game just that as the and eight receiving 2013 season touchdowns to go along progressed. with numerous game-chang“He’s a ing plays as a kick and punt hard worker, returner. so that makes Also gone are the team’s up for some two leading rushers in 2013, things for him,” Keyshawn Jemison and John Hogan said. “He Underwood, who combined made some misfor 17 rushing scores and more takes, threw some than 130 yards rushing per picks, but he was just game, not to mention several a sophomore—a kid veteran offensive linemen, includwho played defening Joseph Hall and Brandon sive line his freshStokes. man year.

No longer can “I was pleased the Panthers with his progress.

Kevin Nunn, a converted depend on He has a bigdefensive lineman, progressed RaeQuane Jones, time arm. He just throughout last season as the team’s starting quarterback. he of the 15-tackneeds to work on Even more is expected in 2014. le-per-game averhis timing, some age (five more things like that.” stops per game Senior Jimmy more than the next best tackler Archie hopes to take pressure in the Chilton County area), to off Nunn by running the ball be the rock in the middle of the effectively. Archie missed most Story by Stephen Dawkins | Photos by Jon Goering, Brandon Sumrall and contributed

F

KICKOFF 2014

7

Junior linebacker P.J. Blue will lead a Jemison defense that is working to replace much lost productivity.

of last season with an injury, but has experience taking snaps at the varsity level.

“He is one who will play a key role and has the potential to have a really great year,” Hogan said.

Nunn will have playmakers to throw the ball to, including senior Alex Smith and freshman Eric Evans—who will slip into Satterfield’s No. 1 jersey—and rely on blockers such as sophomore Mason Sanders, who has claimed the job at center, and returning starters Sidney Griffin, a senior right guard, and Clay Cunningham, a junior left tackle.

Hogan was pleased with the progress the team showed during passing camp competitions over the summer at Leeds, Thompson and Samford University.

“What I liked the most is we got out there and competed,” he said. “We want there to be an expectation, we want kids to expect things out of themselves, and I think we’re getting to that point.”

On defense, look for Jones’ production to be at least partially replaced by junior linebacker P.J. Blue, who turned in 98 tackles himself last season.

“This is the guy we want to try to build this on,” Hogan said about the defense. “We’re going to try to move him around a little bit and get him into different positions.”

But Blue, who is already receiving accolades from national college football recruiting services, 8

KICKOFF 2014

won’t have to do it by himself, as fellow linebacker Shawn Poe, a senior, and senior defensive linemen Shunderrius Strong and Taylon Simpson are ready and able to help.

Brothers Will Lenoir and Phillip Lenoir, both juniors, will also have important roles to play, at safety and outside linebacker, respectively.

After having most key players log snaps on both sides of the ball in 2013, Hogan said JHS this year is committed to having two true platoons, which will result in more time to rest and allow for coaches to implement more complex gameplans.

As the Jemison football program adjusts to life without the stars of last year, Hogan said it’s actually helped that those stars have remained close to the program, stopping by regularly over the summer.

The coach encourages such visits.

“You’re always welcome here.

This is always your team,” Hogan said about his message to former players. “It’s been good for the younger guys to see those guys still around, working, getting ready for their college careers.

Success breeds success.

“We’re young this year. We sent five kids to college programs, but I’m optimistic about it because I think the Class of 2014 laid a foundation as far as work ethic goes. We’ve got a group of hardworking kids.” n

Blue RegImenT BAnD

Quinton Mims (drum major), Marrisa Adams, Darren Buendtner, Tyler Huff, Lexie Lawley, Justin Macks, Jonah Moore, Johnny Seagle, Zach Brown, Rachell Sammons, Anna Clark, Kelly Garrett, Krista Lemley, Devlin Patton,

Ashley Porter, Laurin Tillery, Sean Connell, Daphne Burchfield, Kasey Garrett, Dakoda Dobbs, Bobby Johnson, Shelby Caputo (percussion and drum line captain), Fletcher Brantley, Grace Burke, Zack Burnett, Emily English, Savannah Kliman, Aaron Kotke, Jordan Mahaffey,

Garrett McWhorter, Sara Morris, Kevin Rico, Dylan Sadler, Faith Singletary, Logan Trechard, Arturo Fernandez, Matthew Hollimon, Jasper Sims, Johnathan Cotton, Evan Dismukes, Max Riffe, Christopher Robertson (trumpet and band captain), Noah Bittle, Taylor Champagne,

Jose DelValle, Brayden Endress, Andy Hancock, Braden LaRocca, Gavin Miller, Noah Moore, Rene Roman, Zach Vowell, Preston Matthews, Charles Smih, Karlee Pritchard (majorette captain), Jessica Broussard (majorette co-captain), Jade McWhorter (majorette

co-captain), Michaela Bailey, Averie Porter , Danielle Sadler, Audrey Calvin (color guard captain), Tiffani Smith (color guard co-captain), Taylor Brown, Sara Carden, Jenny Creel, Claire Lagrone, Taylor Noah, Samantha Pinon (dance line captain), Candy Martinez (dance line CheeRleADeRS

co-captain), Alexandra Curtis, Asia Davison, Traley Dimenna , Rosa Gomez, Makenzie Johnson, Shanda Manasco, Ruby Medrano, Brittany Powell, Briana Sansom, Erica Street, Carlea Swindle, Savannah Swindle, Carlee Tyler, Anna Wilson, Chyna Woods.

Alyssa Benton, Hannah Dutton, Cheyenne Forester, Meghan Jackson, Abbi Knight, Katelyn Lambert, Kendal Lambert, Mabrey Millard, Karmen Mims, Briana Moody, Shelbie Robinson, Mary Stokes, Kelsea Smith, Ashley Ward, Brookelyn Woodall, Samantha Wyatt.

10

KICKOFF 2014

ROSTeR

1-Eric Evans-Fr. 2-Jaustin Cox-Sr. 3-Alex Smith-Sr. 4-Kevin Nunn-Jr. 6-Phillip Lenoir-Jr. 7-Cortez Gaddis-Sr. 8-P. J. Blue-Jr. 9-Logan Ray-Jr. 10-Chase Deason-So.

11-Ty Leachman-Fr. 12-David Vazquez-So. 14-Shunderrius StrongSr. 15-Austin Moore-So. 16-Dakota Shaner-Fr. 17-Luis Molina-So. 18-Roberto Abarca-Jr. 19-Hunter BroadheadJr.

20-Dylan Shaner-Sr. 21-Rashaun Daniel-Jr. 22-Miguel Saenz-So. 23-Jacob Hartley-Sr. 24-Jimmy Archie-Sr. 25-Shawn Poe-Sr. 26-Jonathan McCarySo. 27-Will Lenoir-Jr. 30-Drue Moore-Fr.

31-Taylon Simpson-Sr. 32-Donovan Hicks-Fr. 34-Blake Ash-Fr. 36-Yinelle Nunn-Jr. 37-Sawyer Smith-Fr. 39-Cole Headley-So. 50-Blaine Galloway-Fr. 54-Devon Swindle-So. 55-Chadwick Nunn-So. 60-Mason Sanders-So.

61-Corey Short-Fr. 62-Samuel Alstott-Fr. 63-Dakota Arnold-Fr. 64-Vaden Arnold-Fr. 65-Wesley Branch-Jr. 66-Joseph Harris-So. 67-Marcus Tumpkin-So. 68-Hunter Glass-So. 71-Sidney Griffin-Sr. 72-Dustin Johnson-Fr.

73-Nathan Gilliland-Fr. 75-Ben Merrell-So. 76-Clay CunninghamJr. 77-Noah Glenn-Fr. 78-Bailey Jones-Fr. 79-Christian Flores-So. 82-Blayze Franklin-So. 98-Parker Phillips-So.

KICKOFF 2014

11

2-minute drill ClASS 1A, RegIOn 4 COACh Brent Hubbert (Lanett, 1989) 130-47 in 13 seasons ASSISTAnTS Brad Abbott Josh Averett Eric Bailey Tate Leonard 2014 SCheDule Aug. 22: Bye Aug. 29: Billingsley Sept. 5: at Sunshine* Sept. 12: at Keith* Sept. 19: Addison* Sept. 26: Linden* Oct. 3: at Tanner* Oct. 10: at Ellwood Christian* Oct. 17: A.L. Johnson* Oct. 24: Akron* Oct. 31: Sweet Water *-region game 2013 ReSulTS Winterboro (win, 59-6) Billingsley (win, 480) at Sunshine (win, 75-0) Akron (win, 62-12) Sweet Water (win, 27-24) at Ellwood Christian (win, 63-6) Autaugaville (win, 51-26) at Holy Spirit (win, 55-0) at Keith (win, 69-6) Jemison (win, 48-7) Playoffs Marengo (win, 62-0) at Geneva Co. (win, 41-7) Linden (win, 41-0) Brantley (win, 31-8) Pickens Co. (loss, 38-18)

Featured Player: Dalton Ray may be undersized for an interior defensive lineman, but his toughness and discipline epitomizes Maplesville’s program.

Maplesville

red devils

No dip expected year after title game ond leading tackler in the area.

But there are plenty of reasons for optimism in Maplesville.

Start with the eight returning starters on defense. There are five more returning players who started at some point, resulting in a defense that’s not only experienced, but deep.

“Obviously, we’ve got to lean on that group early in the season,” coach Brent Hubbert said. aplesville’s 2013 season, one Seniors Tyler Armstrong and that seemed destined for the Dalton Ray and juniors Corey history books, ended in Hall and Will Harrison will disappointment, make it difficult on opposwith a 38-18 loss ing quarterbacks and runto Pickens County ning backs from their in the school’s defensive line positions. first state chamPerhaps the unit pionship game hardest hit by graduappearance since ation was the offensive 1996. line, where four out of Along with its five starters were lost. hopes of a title, “We’ve definitely MHS also saw got our work cut slip away a group out for us there,” of seniors with Hubbert said. their fingerLeft tackle prints all over Larry Leggett, the success, a senior, is the includonly returning ing Colby starter.

Chambers, Stevonta Bradley is one of the The four the consumkey members of last year’s state replacements mate quarterback championship game team that and passing yard- will be counted on once again. will likely all be juniors. age leader among The loss of Chilton County starters is usuarea players; ally somewhat different at Damian Mitchell, the leading Maplesville than other schools, rusher among running backs; as backups sometimes see and Devonte’ Morrow, the secStory by Stephen Dawkins | Photos by Jon Goering, Brandon Sumrall and contributed

M

KICKOFF 2014

13

more playing time than starters because of frequently lopsided scores (13 of Maplesville’s 14 wins last season was by more than 22 points).

Jerry Nix, a junior who rushed for 750 yards on an 8.5-yardsper-carry average last season, is likely to split carries with sophomore Terrance Dunlap.

Junior Cole Spencer will step in for Chambers at quarterback, Hubbert said.

At 6 feet tall and 185 pounds, Spencer is one of the team’s strongest players, Hubbert said.

“He’s a good quarterback specimen,” Hubbert said. “He throws the ball well; we’ve just got to harness some of that arm strength and get it going in the right direction.”

With last year’s veteran squad, coaches could make adjustments on the fly and feel confident the players would find their way. This season, Hubbert said the Red Devils go back to the

14

KICKOFF 2014

basics, at least early in the year.

“We’ll try to get as close to perfect execution-wise was we can before we move on,” he said.

“We’ll try to make sure we’re doing the little things right.”

The most significant reason for believing Maplesville won’t suffer a post-championship game hangover has been the players’ attitudes.

“We were kind of apprehensive about them coming in with some self-entitlement, but they’ve come in and worked hard,” Hubbert said. “They keep doing the things we ask them to do.

“Right now, we’re trying to find our identity. Every team has its own identity. There are things that are out there to accomplish that we didn’t accomplish last year. We have to understand how we’ve had success in the past and be willing to do those things. If not, we won’t have that success.” n

CheeRleADeRS Kathryn Jones, Alyssa McGee, Skylar Keener, Breanna Weaver, Brinley Carter, Josey Smitherman,

Tayana Watson, LaRosa Perry, Regan Dunkin, Lacee Wallace, Megan Weaver, Tasha Tillis.

ROSTeR 2-Stevonta Bradley-Jr. 3-Jerry Nix-Jr. 4-Trey Mixon-Jr. 5-Troy Harrison-Sr. 6-Anthony Moore-Sr. 7-Kendarius Bradley-Sr. 8-Zan McKenzie-Jr. 9-Patrick Smith-Sr.

OPEN A 7 DAYS K WEE ur

For Yoence ie Conven

10-Robert Girlie-Jr. 11-Cole Spencer-Jr. 12-Adam Harrison-Jr. 13-Nathaniel WatsonFr. 14-Noah Chambers-Fr. 15-Trevor Wallace-Jr. 19-John Schoener-So. 20-Chaz Morris-Fr.

21-Tyler Williams-So. 22-Bret Schoener-Fr. 24-Thad Hunter-So. 24-Brandon Short-Fr. 28-Terrance Dunlap-So. 32-Corey Hall-Jr. 34-Michael Harris-Fr. 36-Dalton Ray-Sr. 40-Alex Smith-So.

We Vacuum Seal M at no e eat xt cost. ra

44-Mason Crocker-Jr. 50-Tyler Armstrong-Sr. 51-Blaise Huey-Jr. 52-Rayshawn-SimmonsJr. 53-Will Harrison-Jr. 54-Carson Riley-Fr. 55-Jalen Hall-Fr. 57-Taz Huthinson-Fr.

58-Christopher Cleckler-Fr. 66-Nathan Bush-Sr. 68-Noah Smith-So. 70-Nick Bush-8th 71-Larry Leggett-Sr. 73-Deven Wallace-Jr. 75-Tyrone Davis-Fr. 76-J.E. Norris-Fr.

79-Tyler Hand-So. 82-Loftin Smith-Jr. 85-Andre Coaste-Fr. 88-Daryl Odem-Fr.

WE PROUDLY SUPPORT OUR

KICKOFF 2014

15

Maplesville’s Trevor Wallace (left) tries to come down with a pass during a practice.

16

KICKOFF 2014

ROSTeR 8-Jewel Mitchell-Jr. 4-Nevin Todd-So.

7-Zack Pittman 55-Joe Lovoy-Fr. 42-J.U. Bice-8th

13-Nick Haube-Jr. 22-Tim Trokey-Fr. 11- Noah Pittman

Walker Powell-Fr. Trent Ray-Sr. Zach Davis-Jr.

Chilton Christian academy

2-minute drill ChRISTIAn FOOTBAll ASSOCIATIOn COACh Thomas Lyon (Victory Baptist School [Elizabeth City, N.C.], 1993) First season ASSISTAnT Caleb Jones 2014 SCheDule Aug. 22: at Brooklane Sept. 5: Cahawba Christian^ Sept. 12: at Faith-Roanoke Sept. 19: Clay Co.^ Sept. 26: Huntsville Christian^ Oct. 3: at Marion Oct. 11: at Cullman Christian Oct. 24: Victory Millbrook^ ^-game starts at 5 p.m.

2013 ReSulTS at Clay Co. Christian (loss) at VBC-Millbrook (loss) Marion Academy (loss, 46-20) Brooklane Baptist (win, 45-13) Cullman Christian (loss, 42-18) at Lindsay Lane (loss) Faith Christian (loss, 71-21) at Conecuh Springs (loss)

paTrioTs

Seeking return to the top under new coach

Story from staff reports | Contributed photo

J

ust three years removed from the first Christian Football Association championship, Chilton Christian Academy is trying to figure out how to reach that mountaintop again.

Thomas Lyon will be the team’s third coach in as many years.

The Patriots seem to have

nowhere to go but up as they managed only one win last year in a campaign marked by numerous injuries.

Lyon said speed and sure tackling on defense are imperative in the 6-man football played in the CFA. Junior Jewel Mitchell and sophomore Nevin Todd will provide the CCA defense with experience and

toughness, Lyon said.

Meanwhile, junior Nick Haube is returning from an injury that kept him out all of last season.

“Our eighth and ninth graders will help a bunch,” Lyon said about Tim Trokey, Joe Lovoy, Walker Powell and J.U. Bice. “Our senior, Trent (Ray) will be the key. We need him to lead as a senior should and make the plays we need to win.

“Most of all, we need to play for each other and not for self—a lesson we learned last year.” n

KICKOFF 2014

17

2-minute drill ClASS 6A, RegIOn 3 COACh Brian Bradford (Stanhope Elmore, 1994) First season ASSISTAnTS Robert Bradford Greg Gault Joe Jennings Phil Kamerer Clint Pitchford Deon Timmons Andrew Welch 2014 SCheDule Aug. 22: at Sylacauga Aug. 28: Jemison Sept. 5: at Pell City* Sept. 12: Oxford* Sept. 19: at Chelsea* Sept. 26: at Marbury Oct. 3: Valley* Oct. 10: Bye Oct. 17: at Opelika* Oct. 24: Benjamin Russell* Oct. 31: Calera *-region game 2013 ReSulTS at Jemison (loss, 34-28) Homewood (loss, 42-7) at Shelby Co. (win, 35-14) Talladega (win, 21-7) Marbury (win, 31-19) at Sylacauga (loss, 13-3) at Briarwood (loss, 22-0) John Carroll (win, 15-7) at Ramsay (win, 20-13) Calera (loss, 29-28) Playoffs Benjamin Russell (loss, 48-7)

Featured Player: Keishun White is one of several playmakers looking to make Chilton County known for its offense as well as for its defense.

Chilton Co.

Tigers

Striving for new heights under new coach Story by Stephen Dawkins | Photos by Jon Goering, Brandon Sumrall and contributed

Bradford said he’s been encouraged by what he’s seen so far in practice. fter “I feel good about the senior three class,” he said. “They played a solid lot last year, and they’re going to seasons pull us through, hopefully, but under it’s hard to say because I haven’t coach seen them up against anybody else yet.”

A pair of seniors, Trenton Donnie Hand, in which Chilton Bishop and Anthony Chavez, County High School’s footwill split time at quarterball team won 18 games, back at least to begin including one playoff the year, like they did game, the Tigers part of last season. will take a differBradford said ent direction in Bishop and 2014.

Chavez posBrian sess similar skill Bradford, who sets, and both served as offenhave shown they sive coordinacan manage the tor at Stanhope offense.

Elmore for the past “They’re both nine seasons, was hired at very, very similar,” CCHS in the offseason said Bradford, after Hand left on good who added that terms. he wasn’t sure If Bradford can help the how snaps would CCHS offense be split, at least improve and to begin with. complement Whoever is Jakevious Boswell, now a what has been in the huddle senior, led Chilton County High School last season with an a stingy defense at a given time average of 5.9 yards per carry. the past few seawill have several sons, the Tigers playmakers at his will make a disposal. smooth transition into Class 6A. Senior running back Jakevious Gone off the schedule are Boswell averaged 5.9 yards per the likes of Homewood, Shelby carry last season as one of the County, Talladega, Sylacauga, running game’s primary options.

Briarwood, John Carroll and He should be counted on to Ramsay. This season, Chilton’s carry a heavier load in 2014. region slate will include Pell Cade Hatch, a junior, should City, Oxford, Chelsea, Valley, be among the Chilton County Opelika and Benjamin Russell. area’s top receivers. He hauled

A

KICKOFF 2014

19

Senior Trenton Bishop completed 55 of 140 pass attempts in 2013 for 872 yards and 10 touchdowns.

in six passes for 162 yards and a touchdown during Tiger Day, a preseason scrimmage that was open to fans.

Also, senior Keishun White will give defenses a change of pace, as he is elusive in space and could line up at either running back or receiver.

Senior receiver Austin Chandler will also be an important part of the offensive attack.

Going into the season, the situations on the offensive and defensive fronts was less settled than at the skill positions.

Kevin Kemp, a senior, will be the anchor on the defensive line, while junior Jacob Smith provides some valuable experience on the offensive line.

20

KICKOFF 2014

“I think we’re going to be OK; we just don’t have the experience we have at other positions,” Bradford said.

Hatch led the Chilton County area with eight interceptions in 2013, and Keandre Binion, now a senior, was second with four interceptions. Those two will again make it dangerous for opposing quarterbacks to put the ball in the air.

The Tigers’ success could ultimately hinge on how the players adjust to the new schemes installed by a new coaching staff.

“We are totally changing what we do,” Bradford said. “It is an adjustment period. That is the main concern: everybody picking up what we’re doing.”

But the results so far are positive.

“They’re wonderful kids,” Bradford said. “They’re working their tails off. They’ve totally bought into what we’re doing.

I’ve got zero complaints about them.” n

DR. MIKE PATTERSON

DR. JAMES SEDLIS

DR. LOREN JAMES

831 First Street North Alabaster, AL 35007 205.358.9120 1320 WoodямБn Lane Clanton, AL 35045 (Mondays Only) 866.252.3618 www.LemakSports.com

Proud to support CHILTON COUNTY!

22

KICKOFF 2014

Anthony Chavez (center), a senior, is expected to split time with Trenton Bishop at the quarterback position in 2014.

KICKOFF 2014

23

CheeRleADeRS Elizabeth Ray, Hope Short, Ashley

CLANTON 1006 Lay Dam Road, Clanton, AL 205.280.3360 26

KICKOFF 2014

PRATTVILLE Prattville Medical Park, Suite 108 645 McQueen Smith Road 334.270.8060

Lanier, April Pairrett, Kendal Elijah, Julianne Lyn, Tori Lucas, Mary

Elizabeth McKinney.

ROSTeR 1-Jakevious Boswell-Sr. 2-Anthony Chavez-Sr. 3-Dmarco Lucas-So. 4-Keishun White-Sr. 5-Keshawn Williams-So. 6-Jaylin Martin-So. 7-Austin Chandler-Sr. 8-Jaquares Martin-Jr. 9-Dylan Rhodes-Sr. 10-Trenton Bishop-Sr. 11-Dustin Cleckler-So. 12-Austin Prough-So.

28

KICKOFF 2014

14-Trevor Thompson-So. 15-Cade Hatch-Jr. 16-Tyer Fox-Jr. 17-Tyler Henderson-Sr. 18-Keaton Sullivan-So. 20-Josh Reid-So. 21-Nathan Sullivan-Fr. 22-Casey Baker-So. 23-Darrell Hilliard-Jr. 24-Keandre Binion-Sr. 25-Mark Mims-Jr. 26-Jarrett Ricks-Fr. 28-Nick Tomberlin-So.

30-Jolante Cammon-So. 31-Gus Rogers-Sr. 32-Giquan Lane-Fr. 33-Alan Knight-So. 34-Austin Johnson-Sr. 35-Cole Headley-Fr. 40-Cameron Collins-So. 41-Gage Atcheson-So. 42-Hunter Henson-So. 43-Canion Griffin-Jr. 45-Colton Scott-Sr. 50-Blake Shirah-Jr. 51-Gage Minor-Fr.

52-Akiah Thomas-So. 53-Davis Creel-Sr. 54-Zeke Wyatt-So. 55-Marcel Williams-So. 56-Kevn Kemp-Sr. 57-Tyler Patton-Fr. 58-Shawn Smith-Sr. 60-Christian Carson-So. 61-Reese Staggs-So. 64-Austyn Ray-Jr. 65-Keundre Childress-Fr. 72-Bryan Easterling-Jr. 73-Jacob Smith-Jr.

75-Darius Goodwin-Jr. 77-Ulises Ruiz-So. 78-Ryan Cook-Jr. 80-Bailey Cleckler-Fr. 81-Shaun Davis-Fr. 82-Dakota Clements-So. 83-Patrick Rogers-Fr. 84-James Dunnigan-So. 85-Colby Kemp-Fr. 86-Griffin Green-Fr. 87-David Griffin-Fr. 88-Jordan Coats-Jr. 90-Colby Barren-So.

Junior Cade Hatch led all Chilton County area players in 2013 with eight interceptions.

This season, he’ll likely be counted on to catch passes while on offense also.

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

SATURDAY

BUY ONE DINNER GET 2ND ONE HALF PRICE

BUY ONE COMBO DINNER A-L GET 2ND ONE HALF PRICE

MARGARITA HAPPY HOUR 5:00 TILL CLOSING

BEER SPECIAL 3:00 PM TILL CLOSING

KICKOFF 2014

29

Chilton County high sChool football A look back at the last 35 years Year–Coach Classification–Record–Points for–Points against–Playoff record–Playoff points for–Playoff points against 2013 5A

donnie Hand 5-6 195

248

0-1

7

48

2012 5A

donnie Hand 10-2 311

142

1-1

40

51

2011 5A

donnie Hand 3-7 173

206

2010 5A

Brian Carter 218 5-5

214

2009 5A

Brian Carter 5-6 224

252

0-1

14

39

2008 5A

Brian Carter 3-8 254

353

0-1

31

41

2007 5A

Steve MCCord 7-4 313 251

0-1

7

33

2006 5A

Steve MCCord 8-3 354 218

0-1

0

41

2005 5A

Steve MCCord 5-5 204 254

2004 5A

Steve MCCord 2-8 198 263

2003 5A

Steve MCCord 4-6 181 243

2002 5A

Mike HarriS 1-9 156

265

2001 5A

Mike HarriS 2-8 113

306

2000 5A

Mike HarriS 5-6 236

277

0-1

13

42

1999 5A

Mike HarriS 3-7 185

277

1998 5A

dale overton d 1-9 138

261

internal medicineSouth

30

KICKOFF 2014

1997 5A

Jay daviS 6-5 236

236

0-1

0

25

1996 5A

Joe nettleS 11-1 365

159

1-1

40

33

1995 5A

Joe nettleS 5-5 170

148

1994 5A

Joe nettleS 8-2 191

132

1993 5A

Joe nettleS 6-5 209

180

0-1

28

41

1992 5A

troy MiMS 7-4 239

186

0-1

19

61

1991 5A

troy MiMS 6-4 225

152

1990 5A

troy MiMS 3-7 231

334

1989 5A

troy MiMS 2-9 162

339

0-1

15

38

1988 5A

troy MiMS 4-7 177

317

0-1

22

35

1987 5A

donald Hand 9-4 271

140

2-1

42

37

1986 5A

donald Hand 7-5 224

177

1-1

47

53

1985 5A

donald Hand 8-3 214

149

0-1

0

24

1984 5A

donald Hand 7-4 224

143

0-1

13

22

1983 3A

donald Hand 7-4 196

151

1982 3A

donald Hand 4-6 135

157

1981 3A

donald Hand 8-2 245

132

1980 3A

donald Hand 5-5 175

133

1979 3A

donald Hand 4-6 102

157

KICKOFF 2014

31

PRIDe OF ChIlTOn COunTy BAnD Katelyn Adams, Alyssa Riley, Kaylen Anderson, Katie Blackmon, Courtney Green, Brooke Wilkerson, Hannah Moore, Ashley Wilkerson, Leah Easterling, Avery Wyatt, Hannah

32

KICKOFF 2014

Tierce, Magadelena Henriquez, Julianne Rutherford, Jenah Connell, Makayla Kersh, Breighanna Alford, Anna Calhoun, Molly Desmond, Sierra Dennis, Caitlyn Jones, Meghan Maddox, Tilby Miller, Abbey Porter,

Elizabeth Sewell, Emilee Smith, Kyle Carter, Matthew Headley, Caleb Hoyt, Niqulas Smith, James Wutke, John Bishop, John Kelley, Faith Madrid, Austin Ryhal, Blake West, Kaylie Smith, Philip Smith, Kevin Williams, Morgan

Mayfield, Kris Burch, Antonio Garcia, Chelsea Johnson, Kyle Jones, Robert Richards, Hailey Towers, Kasie Waites, Austin Long, Brayden Moates, Abby Cleckler, Julie Gassaway, Haylee McMinn, Dalton Moore, Faith Nail, Dakota

Nivens, Kindred Pilling, Will Whitlock, Scarlett Wilson, Kaitlyn Daniels, Cody Estep, Ashley Giles, Melanie Green, Madison Higdon, Mackenzie Liveoak, Trenton Tucker, Elizabeth Warren, Morgan Wutke, Hunter Carter, Colsen Craig.

preseason all-area Team

Nolen

OFFENSE

Quarterback: Tyler Smith, Senior,

DEFENSE

Defensive line: Will harrison, Junior, Maplesville Defensive line: Dustin Shackelford, Senior, Thorsby

Isabella Running back: Jakevious Boswell, Senior, Chilton Co.

Linebacker: Tyler Armstrong, Senior, Maplesville

Running back: Terrance nolen, Senior, Billingsley

Linebacker: P.J. Blue, Junior, Jemison

Receiver: Stevonta Bradley, Junior, Maplesville

Linebacker: Rashaud Caver, Senior, Billingsley

Receiver: Jaytarius Steele, Senior, Billingsley

Linebacker: Shawn Poe, Senior Jemison

Offensive line: Clay Cunningham, Junior, Jemison

Linebacker: hakeem underwood, Freshman, Verbena

Offensive line: Sidney griffin, Senior, Jemison

Defensive back: Christian Agee, Senior, Verbena

Offensive line: Tyler Owens, Senior, Thorsby

Defensive back: Keandre Binion, Senior, Chilton Co.

Offensive line: Austin Parker, Senior, Isabella

Defensive back: Kendarius Bradley, Senior, Maplesville

Offensive line: Todd Smith, Senior, Isabella

Defensive back: Cade hatch, Junior, Chilton Co.

Athlete: Keishun White, Senior, Chilton Co.

.edu HIGH FEES HIGH STANDARDS

Choosing a college? Big universities will soak you with extra fees.

But you won’t find that at Auburn Montgomery. AUM is a campus that is committed to learning, with flexible schedules, dedicated professors and smaller classes. Call us today and plan your campus visit to see why AUM is a better choice.

WHERE LEARNING MATTERS MOST 334-244-3615 www.aum.edu/admissions

KICKOFF 2014

33

2-minute drill ClASS 1A, RegIOn 3 COACh Scott Booth (Central-Tuscaloosa, 1984), 58-81 in 11 seasons ASSISTAnTS Jared Day Mike Jones Rex Littleton Matt Moody Aaron Ratliff Mike Ratliff 2014 SCheDule Aug. 22: Bye Aug. 29: Hale Co. Sept. 5: Bye Sept. 12: Autaugaville* Sept. 19: at Loachapoka* Sept. 26: at Central Coosa Oct. 3: Billingsley* Oct. 10: at Verbena* Oct. 17: Bye Oct. 24: Notasulga* Oct. 31: Thorsby *-region game 2013 ReSulTS Central Coosa (win, 35-6) Randolph Co. (win, 25-0) at Prattville Christian (win, 41-20) at Horseshoe Bend (win, 35-14) Verbena (win, 45-6) Lanett (loss, 25-14) at LaFayette (win, 42-20) at Reeltown (loss, 19-0) Montgomery Academy (loss, 41-20) at Thorsby (win, 43-6) First round playoffs at Fyffe (loss, 56-30)

Featured Player: Tyler Smith carries the offensive load for Isabella from his quarterback position—whether he’s running or passing.

isabella

MusTangs Seniors ready to take next step

load by rushing for 768 yards and nine touchdowns.

There are options, including ince his return junior Caleb Giles, who plays to the school wingback like Campbell did. Also, before the fullback Jacob Carroll, a senior, 2010 season, will be counted on to provide Isabella coach yards on the ground.

Scott Booth Booth said Carroll is smaller in and a group size for a fullback but that his size of players is not necessarily a weakness, as that are now seniors have enjoyed it allows him to “get much success. lost” in the crowd The Mustangs have won 23 of linemen and games combined the past four avoid tackles. seasons and earned playoff berths “Jacob does in three of the four seasons—but everything 110 haven’t won a playoff game. percent--in Now, Isabella might be practice, in ready to take the next step the games, in and make a deep playoff school,” Booth run. said. “Everything For the third straight year, he does is topIHS will be led by quarterback notch.”

Tyler Smith. Now a senior The offensive expecting his most memorable line blocking for season yet, Smith epitomizes Isabella’s impressive a senior class that stable of backs has been crucial should be strong. in the program’s Senior Scottie success—and that Underwood is now hungry returns to action for more. after a year hiaSmith led all tus to join veterChilton County an starters Austin area players last Senior fullback Jacob Carroll is Parker and Todd effective despite not possessing year with an averSmith, both typical size for the position. age of more than fellow seniors.

140 yards rushUnderwood will ing per game, play tight end. as he compiled more than 1,500 Another senior, Fidell Wilson, rushing yards and 18 rushing brings athleticism to the offensive touchdowns. front, while sophomore Tyler The question this season is Smitherman brings size. Senior who will be the new DeRodgus Will Posey will likely man the left Campbell, the graduated Isabella tackle position, with the rest of back who helped Smith carry the the line from left to right featurStory by Stephen Dawkins | Photos by Jon Goering, Brandon Sumrall and contributed

S

KICKOFF 2014

35

ing Wilson, Smith, Smitherman and Parker.

“We’ve got a chance to have one of the better offensive lines we’ve had,” Booth said.

While Isabella’s offense has been consistently effective under Booth, the unit has sometimes had to outscore opponents because of a porous defense.

But Booth saw improvement in last year’s defense and hopes the trend continues.

Senior Jason Buchanan will provide solid play at nose guard, while senior Chase Pate will help ensure the defense is strong up the middle from his middle linebacker position. Pate will be flanked by Underwood and freshman Austin Brasher.

Booth said Isabella will move defenders around and utilize various blitzes to keep opposing offenses off-balance.

“We may be a little smaller on the defensive line, so we may have to move some guys around,” he said. n

Under coach Scott Booth’s guidance, Isabella’s offense the past several years has been among the area’s best at racking up yards—and points.

Want more of a meal?

8 PIECE MIXED $7.99 • 12 PIECE MIXED $11.99 24 PIECE MIXED $22.99 • 48 PIECE MIXED $46.99

PICK YOUR SAUCE

Wicked (Very Hot) Medium

36

KICKOFF 2014

Mild

Garlic Parmesan Maui Sauce

ROSTeR 1 Jaqarise Stacy--Fr. 2- Austin Brasher-Fr. 4-C.J. LeCroy-So. 5-Kade Pairrett-Fr. 9-Jarred Campbell-Fr.

11-Jamie Patterson-Fr. 12-Kyle Kotke-So. 15-Scottie Underwood-Sr. 16-Tyler Smith-Sr. 20-Jacob Carroll-Sr. 23-Jacob Davis-Fr.

BAnD Katlyn Jones, Charity Lockhart, Kiley Freeman, Isaac Day, Austin Jones, Emily Mullins, Rosa Padilla, J.P. Gibson, Tyler Carter, Alyssa Kiefer,

26-Jarrett Baker-8th 29-Nick Calfee-Fr. 30-Tyler Durham-Fr. 35-Caleb Giles-Jr. 42/67-Hunter Langston-So. 45/55-Chase Pate-Sr.

Jonah Miller, Mary-Devin Meredith, Emily Spigner, Reid Mitchell, Alex Williams, R.J. England, Breanna Jones, Dawson Jones, John Herrod, Cheyann Adams.

50-Tyler Smitherman-So. 53-Joaquin Padilla-Fr. 54-Austin Parker-Sr. 57-Jason Buchanan-Sr. 59-Todd Smith-Sr. 60-Will Posey-Sr.

CheeRleADeRS Sofi Bianacalana, Hanna Reynolds, Whitley Smith, Olivia Owens, Morgan Leonard, Mahlea Grif-

62-Fidell Wilson-Sr. 63-Matthew Conner-Fr. 70-Devin Headley-So. 72-Kelan Mims-Fr. 79-Landon Littleton-Fr.

fin, Hailie Carter, Kayla McNeil, GiGi Bianacalana, Andrea Powell, Chelsea Cox, Kaylee Cleckler, Calyn Washington.

KICKOFF 2014

37

V

2-minute drill ClASS 1A, RegIOn 3 COACh Mike Harris (Verbena, 1974) 42-110 in 15 seasons ASSISTAnTS Randall Beagle Mark Cleckler Scott Doss Tyler Kelley David Stegall 2014 SCheDule Aug. 22: Bye Aug. 29: Thorsby Sept. 5: at Autaugaville* Sept. 12: Loachapoka* Sept. 19: at Billingsley* Sept. 26: at Ellwood Christian Oct. 3: Fruitdale Oct. 10: Isabella* Oct. 17: at Notasulga* Oct. 24: Bye Oct. 31: at Jacksonville Christian *-region game 2013 ReSulTS Thorsby (loss, 34-19) at Wadley (loss, 40-7) Notasulga (loss, 60-27) Loachapoka (loss, 46-7) at Isabella (loss, 45-6) at Fayetteville (loss, 57-20) Talladega Co. Central (loss, 46-12) at St. Jude (loss, 60-14) Winterboro (win, 20-19) at Billingsley (loss, 50-18)

Featured Player: Christian Agee is part of a deep and talented group of skill position players hoping to return Verbena to football prominence.

verbena

red devils

Depth could yield more wins success.

During the summer, workouts are scheduled for varierbeous times, and each player is na’s required to make 18 workouts. footMany VHS players went ball beyond what was required and teams attended more than 20 workhave a outs, simply in an effort to comimprove. bined “The attitude is good,” seven games in the past four Harris said. “The kids are seasons, but there are reasons working hard.” for optimism in 2014.

Tristan Short, a sophomore, The most obviquarterbacked the junior ous reason is the high team last year and will number of playstep into the starting role ers participating for the varsity this seaon the practice son. field. Coach Harris said Mike Harris said Short performed the varsity squad well at four passshould have about 24 ing events over players, up from the 18 the summer. or 19 of typical years.

“Getting him There were about 15 mentally mature varsity players last is the biggest year. thing—helping When junior him understand varsity players the offense better,” who will dress Harris said. “He out for varsity throws the ball well, games are added has a good arm, and in, there could be he’s getting better at as many as 30 reading defenses. players on the We’re working on Verbena sidelines that.” this fall, giving the Dakota Vessichio, a junior, The offensive Red Devils more and defensive is one of several Red Devils depth than they’ve returning with experience lines were the from last year’s team. had in previous units hardest hit seasons, when by graduation. one or two inju“Those are ries would spell disaster. weak points now,” Harris said.

“We’re in better shape than “It takes a lot for them to come we’ve been in a long time,” together. We’ve got a lot of Harris said. work to do there.”

And the players are demAustin Knight is one of the onstrating a commitment to precious few linemen with varStory by Stephen Dawkins | Photos by Jon Goering, Brandon Sumrall and contributed

V

CheeRleADeRS Samantha Dopson, Isabella Blankenship, Kerrigan Glenn (cocaptain), Celeste Montgomery (captain), Sarah Sanford (co-captain),

Katie Allen, Keo White, Chelsea Ray, Makayla Mims, Anna Pike, Makaylie Kelley, Alexze Dejarnett, Sabrasha Osborne.

sity experience. The senior will line up at offensive tackle and defensive end.

“I’m expecting him to be pretty good,” Harris said.

Fortunately, there are a number of playmakers at the skill positions.

Senior Christian Agee could one of the area’s best receivers and defensive backs. Fellow senior Quandarius Ray will play receiver and safety.

Emerging threats include juniors Hakeen Underwood, who will play running back and linebacker, and Dorrian Parker, who will play running back, receiver and cornerback; and sophomore Juwan Tyus, who will play receiver and safety.

Grant Deavers, a senior transfer, will hold down a key role at linebacker and could also serve as the backup quarterback and receiver. n

CLUB KICKOFF 2014

39

ROSTeR 1-Dorrian Parker-Jr. 2-Eric- Mims-So. 4-Quandarius Ray-Sr. 5-Dakota Vessicchio-Jr. 7-Christian Agee-Sr.

10-Christian Blauch-Fr. 11-Johnathan Bryant-Fr. 12-Tristan Short-So. 15-Trey McCullough-So. 17-Christopher Smith-Sr. 22-Taylor Deavers-Sr.

ReD DevIl RegImenT BAnD McKayla Evans, Star Jones, Cassidy Manley, Alisia Lezama, Jacob Penton, Sergio Romero-Rodriguez, Chance Ledlow, Amber Tucker, Alana De Lia Riva, Jacob Johnson, Ethan Lezama, Charlie Gilliland, Joseph Minor, Mikayla Francis, Cade Williams, Carrie Holzapfel, Morris Sanders, Ricky Fulmer, Brandon Hargrove, Blake Nelson, Cole Davenport, Brenda Parrales-Ayala, Ronald Mims, EJ Irvin, Madelynn Nieto, Diana Baldwin, Abigail Brown, Amber Dunn, Candice Williams, Melissa Baldwin, Danielle Gaskin, Hailey Kirkland, Rosalie Ortigoza, Tori Irvin, Miranda Driggers, Angel Wyatt, Austin Gilliland, Ciara Towers.

40

KICKOFF 2014

26-Hakeem Underwood-Fr. 28-Hunter Reeves-So. 33-Anthony Miller-So. 50-Dillon Walker-Jr. 52-Garrett Wells-Fr. 53-Ja’starza White-Fr.

54-Jason Adams-So. 55-Stephen Bryant-Jr. 56-Austin Knight-Sr. 57-Morris Sanders-Sr. 59-Stephen Wright-Sr. 68-Mitch Kelley-Jr.

70-Tanner Mims-Fr. 72-Bryan Rasberry-Jr. 75-Jacob Cleckler-Jr. 77-Russell Boulware-Jr. 82-Raymond Bulger II-Jr. 85-Juwan Tyus-So.

Billingsley

Bears

Seniors looking to leave their mark

Story by Stephen Dawkins | Photos by Jon Goering and Brandon Sumrall

B

2-minute drill ClASS 1A, RegIOn 3 COACh Tyson McLean (Billingsley, 1990) 23-11 in three seasons ASSISTAnTS Ricky Atcheson, J.T. Lawrence, John Mabry, Josh Robinson 2014 SCheDule Aug. 22: Bye Aug. 29: at Maplesville Sept. 5: at Loachapoka* Sept. 12: Gordo* Sept. 19: Verbena* Sept. 26: Prattville Christian Oct. 3: at Isabella* Oct. 10: Notasulga* Oct. 17: Bye Oct. 24: Autaugaville* Oct. 31: at Montevallo *-region game 2013 ReSulTS Prattville Christian (win, 20-14) at Maplesville (loss, 48-0) at Autaugaville (loss, 26-20) Sunshine (win, 42-20) Holt (win, 48-12) Keith (win, 18-0) Ellwood Christian (win, 38-12) at Akron (win, 18-0) Holy Spirit (win, 66-6) Verbena (win, 50-18) Playoffs at St. Luke’s (loss, 21-20)

illingsley’s football fortunes in 2014 will rest on a group of seniors who are familiar with each other—and with success.

A group of players who went undefeated at the junior high level, and were freshmen when coach Tyson McLean took the reins, this season will try to leave their mark on the Billingsley program.

The seniors are especially prevalent at the skill positions.

Quarterback Thomas Nichols (left) is among that group. Nichols ranked second among Chilton County area passers last season with an average of 114.3 yards per game through the air. He was first with 17 touchdowns as he completed 90 of 151 passes.

Crucial to the success of Nichols—and the team in general—are a power running game and the pass-catching ability of Jaytarius Steele and Dalton Davis.

Billingsley’s two-headed monster at running back, Terrance Nolen and Rashaud Caver, were both among local leaders in rushing last season.

The pair combined for 1,065 yards rushing and 11 touchdowns. Nolen carried the football almost twice as much

as Caver, and compiled more yardage, but Caver can boast of the better yards-per-carry average, at 6.1.

McLean and the coaching staff are hoping the offensive line progresses to the point where it allows the skill players to perform to their potential.

Only one of the expected starters, Jordan Brown, is among the group of battletested seniors. McLean calls him smart and a leader.

However, three other seniors will compete for playing time. Johny Gilliland sat out last season after transferring, while Zac Nixon played his first season at Billingsley last year after transferring in. Brian Dandridge is also in the mix.

Some younger players will also get a look at offensive line, including junior Darius Reese and sophomores Webb Dobbins and Austin Green, another transfer.

“These guys haven’t played together a whole lot,” McLean said. “The challenge is getting the right people in the right spots, developing that chemistry.”

In an effort to get more speed on the field for the BHS defense, Nolen, one of the team’s better defenders, will move from linebacker to defensive line.

Nolen’s former spot will be manned by sophomore Derrick Dunigan.

Derek Stoudemire, a junior at corner, is a player to watch KICKOFF 2014

41

on the defense. Another transfer who has more of a background in basketball, Stoudemire’s athleticism could benefit the unit, McLean said.

“We need to find a spot for

ROSTeR 1-Hunter Neeley-Sr. 2-Dalton Davis-Sr. 3-Isaac Green-Jr. 4-Thomas NicholsSr. 5-Derrick Dunigan-So. 7-Christoph Livingston-

him on the field,” McLean said.

We’re trying to get our best athletes on the field some kind of way.”

Though there are many other important pieces, ultimately the

Sr. 8-Jaytarius SteeleSr. 9-Derek StoudemireJr. 10-Alex Cobb-Jr. 11-James Woods-Fr. 12-Jamey Barnett-Jr.

13-Thomas Spurlock-Jr. 15-Mason Friday-Jr. 22-Rashaud Caver-Sr. 33-Terrance Nolen-Sr. 45-Tommy Williams-Jr. 50-Michael Barrett-Jr. 51-Jacob Caver-Jr. 52-Rod Knight-So.

CheeRleADeRS Jessica Atchison (captain), Kaitlan Reed (mascot), Madison Motley, Ashton Mabry, Alexis Harrison, Allie Stange, Trinity Price, Abby Tindol, Abby Wilson.

42

KICKOFF 2014

group of Billingsley seniors will determine the heights this year’s team can reach.

“They’re doing a better job of developing some leaders out of that group,” McLean said.

53-Austin Green-So. 54-Darius Reese-Jr. 55-Jordan Brown-Sr. 59-Webb Dobbins-So.

“We’ve lacked a little bit of leadership in the past, but we’ll find out when things get tough.

“We start out with some tough tests. We hope to just stay healthy and stick together.” n

61-Keeshun Steele-So. 65-Ryan Nelson-Sr. 66-Brian Dandridge-Sr. 67-Zac Nixon-So.

68-Johny Gilliland-Sr. 72-Shamar Burns-So. 74-Joseph Nixon-Sr. 85-Landon Reed-So.

Thorsby

reBels

Deteremined to succeed in Class 3A Story by Stephen Dawkins | Photos by Jon Goering, Brandon Sumrall and contributed

only way that we’re going to get better is to play. We’re young in some spots, so we’ll probably or Thorsby, make some mistakes, but we’ll it seems just learn from those and it will that make us better in the end.” when the The most significant reagoing gets son for optimism might be an tough...then increase in speed on the defenit gets even sive side of the ball. tougher.

“I expect us to fly to the The Rebels have struggled football,” Jackson said. the past three seasons in On offense, elusive Class 2A. They’ve posted junior Conner McRae a combined four wins will step into the startin the past three ing quarterback seasons and haven’t position, in addiwon a region game tion to his defensince Oct. 7, 2011, sive back duties. a 56-46 victory over Jackson said Central-Hayneville. the coaching staff Instead of a respite, won’t place too Thorsby found it much of a burden on suddenly had an the first-year starting even steeper mounquarterback’s shoulders. tain to climb when “He’s going to be the Alabama High fine,” Jackson said.

School Athletic “We’re not going to ask Association released him to do a whole lot a reclassification to begin with so he can that found THS gain some confidence. moving up to He’ll progress. He’s a Class 3A. good athlete and has Tyler Owens, now a senior, a strong arm.”

Still, coach started as a sophomore but Billy Jackson knows Also helping missed most of last season that spending time McRae will be an with an injury. He returns to thinking about the array of talented skill add valuable experience on the Rebels’ offensive schedule isn’t going position players. and defensive fronts. to help the Rebels Kevin Owens, become more coma senior, was the petitive. They’re backup to last year’s going to improve through hard quarterback, Darius Davis, and work and determination. took control when Davis was So far, so good, Jackson said. injured.

“The attitude has been great,” But instead of step into Davis’ he said. “We’ve practiced well, former role full time, Owens will and we’re at the point where the be counted on to lead Thorsby

F

KICKOFF 2014

43

2-minute drill ClASS 3A, RegIOn 4 COACh Billy Jackson (Chilton Co., 1990) 14-37 in five seasons ASSISTAnTS Josh Deavers Derrick Littleton Kyle McCray Brad Pool Mike Sellers 2014 SCheDule Aug. 22: Holtville Aug. 29: at Verbena Sept. 5: at Pickens Co.* Sept. 12: R.C. Hatch* Sept. 19: at Holy Spirit* Sept. 26: Winterboro Oct. 3: Vincent* Oct. 10: at Fayetteville* Oct. 17: Bye Oct. 24: Francis Marion* Oct. 31: at Isabella *-region game 2013 ReSulTS at Verbena (win, 34-19) Tarrant (loss, 50-44) at Central Coosa (loss, 24-16) Leeds (loss, 42-0) at Horseshoe Bend (loss, 42-36) at Trinity (loss, 61-16) at Midfield (loss, 46-6) Montevallo (loss, 25-7) B.B. Comer (loss, 36-0) Isabella (loss, 43-6)

Featured Player: Chandler moon is working to return from a series of potentially careerending injuries to contribute on Thorsby’s offensive line.

from his running back and linebacker positions.

Senior Dustin Shackelford will rush the passer as a defensive end but also play the fullback and H-back positions on offense.

Then there’s Chris Brown, a senior who will do a little bit of everything: play running back, play linebacker, return kicks, placekick and punt. Brown didn’t play last year, so his production will be a plus for the Rebels.

Blocking for the offensive skill players will be an offensive line that is short on experience. The center, senior Austin Crumpton, is the only returning starter. The other expected starters have played but don’t have much experience.

Tyler Owens could be a crucial component of both the offensive and defensive lines.

He started as a sophomore but missed most of his junior season with an injury. n

Chris Brown is expected to hold many roles for Thorsby, including running back, kick returner, placekicker and punter.

CHILTON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

North Chilton County’s Newspaper Telling the stories that matter to you.

ADVERTISER NORTH CHILTON

SERVING JEMISON AND THORSBY • www.northchiltonadvertiser.com

205-755-5747

A whole new way to be in the know in North Chilton County.

Copies will be available at the following locations: Patch’s Country Store City Limit Package Karl’s One Stop Porter’s Texaco All State /H & R Block Country Supply Tin Top BBQ Sunlight Ministries South Calera Grocery Cozy Corner Get It & Go Petals From the Past Smokey Hollow Jacks Shell Chevron Subway/Exxon Culp Fruits Little Angels Grooming Sue’s Mart Peoples’ Hair

Donna’s Cut & Style Dollar General Store Bluebonnet Animal Clinic Napa Auto Jemison Building Supply A to Z PC Jemison Trade Center Shear Knowledge Ellison Auto Sales Quail Ridge Apts.

Wanda’s Family Hair Design Barry’s Furniture City Loans Jemison Florist Jemison Internal Medicine Subway Little Italy’s Dari Delite Thorsby Dr.Van T. Greene

Lacordobesa tienda y panderia Movie Gallery Orell’s Beauty Shop Colonial Bank Regions Bank Piggly Wiggly Hayes Drug Super Dollar Jemison City Hall Jemison Post Office Alfa Insurance Jemison Eye Care Coast Gas Farmers and Merchants Jemison Family Chiropractic Dr. Narvel A. Black Baptist Health Jemison Tractor Active Building Supply

Buddy’s Wash House Daisie’s Florist Mizzell’s Super Saver Front Porch Flea Market Chilton Water Authority Garrison Farm & Home Thorsby Post Office Peoples Southern Bank Main Street Market Flip Flops and Polka Dots Unique Hair Salon Thorsby City Hall Thorsby One Stop Thorsby Self Storage Instant Sign Center Money Mart Littleton’s Mower Parker Utility 191 Express Land Mart Suds-R-Us KICKOFF 2014

45

ROSTeR 1-Noah Byrd-So. 2-Conner McRae-Jr. 3-Koty Watts-Sr. 4-Wesley posey-Sr. 5-Dylan Carroll-Jr. 7-Jerrod Atchison-Sr.

8-Nick Henry-So. 9-Alex Robinson-Sr. 10-Kevin Owens-Sr. 15-Israel Garcia-Jr. 16-Brad-Stange-Jr. 20-Logan Cohron-Jr. 21-Brayden Smith-Jr.

ThORSBy hIgh SChOOl BAnD Kandice Clayton, Ashlyn Chance, Bradley Price, Emily Mims, Dannielle Headley, Christian Quintanilla, Hailey Evans, Harlie Withers,

46

KICKOFF 2014

22-Jon Davenport-So. 23-Ken Mims-So. 24-Kevin Mins-So. 28-Tyler Bowen-So. 34-Chris Brown-Sr. 45-Dustin Shakleford-Sr. 50-Colton Pool-So.

Mabeli Ordaz, Trinity Lowery, Robert Beaumont, Grace Howard, Christian Godfrey, Beth Boartfield, Holly Locke, Makayla Marler, Kaitlyn Green, Brylee Posey, Lily Dorminey.

51-Chandler Moon-So. 52-Austin Crumpton-Sr. 53-Darian Wilson-Sr. 54-Travis Wilson-Jr. 55-Tyler Owens-Sr. 58-Josue Alcerro-Sr. 59-Dallas Gray-Sr.

CheeRleADeRS Laken Hayes, Madison Gunn (captain), Jade Connell (mascot), Darian

61-Jarrett Price-So. 65-Jerry Williams-Jr. 74-Jacob Butler-So. 77-Alex Dawson-Sr. 80-Logan Patterson-So.

Green, Kourtney Lowery, Kaley Perdue, Lilly Barnett, Taylor Hayes, Keri Robinson, Macy Barnett.