2023 Football Program

Ch ickasaw Pride

New head coach develops leaders

By DAVID PIERCE NEA Town Courier

Is the 4A Classification sleeping on the Blytheville Chickasaws?

If you ask first-year head coach Gerrett Howard, then “ yes, they are.”

“We’re not making the headlines or getting the rankings,” he explained, “but I like that. That’s something that I can use to get these guys going.”

Blytheville rolled to a 5-1 start in 2022 but as Howard described, “fizzled,” after a demoralizing 26-20 loss to rival Gosnell in week 7. That began a string of six straight losses to end the season

“Yes, that was def lating,” said Howard, who served as an assistant on last year’s squad. “We lost our edge and never got it back ”

A team that had three shutouts in its first five games, while only surrendering 32 total points, closed the season allowing an average of the 36 points per game

Offensively, it was just the opposite. After scoring a season-high 64 points at Highland, production dropped off to an average of 19 4 points per game

How will 2023 be different?

“We’re developing leaders,” replied Howard, a member of the school’s 2007 conference champion – the program’s last such accomplishment. “Ideally, we want this program to be player led. I am trying to use my inf luence to show these guys how to lead If you’re called to lead, then you have to step into it.”

On a team sporting near 50 players, there is no short-

age of candidates and Howard quickly names seniors Tim Brown and Ingram Battles as “ our vocal leaders.”

In addition, the head coach describes the pair as the “best backfield tandem in the state.”

Rightfully so as Brown rushed for 1,468 yards and Battles 871 last season and combined for 26 touchdowns

“We may have overworked them last year,” admits Howard, “and we didn’t do a good job putting all our skill players on display ”

Add returning junior quarterback Jontavious Johnson’s 1,184 passing yards then it’s obvious the Chicks have the ability to score points in bunches

“(Johnson) has a whole lot of experience and ability to match,” said Howard. “He’s developing and looking a lot better I am expecting big things from him ”

Johnson will have targets galore as Howard says, “there’s a whole slew of guys” in a talented receiving corps

Among those are seniors Tyrin Walker, Jeremiah Wells and juniors Derick King and Michael Terry. Walker was the leading receiver among the returnees with 305 yards and a couple of touchdowns.

“I will be looking for mismatches throughout the game,” explained Howard, who will serve as play caller, “and try to expose them.”

The question mark on offense may be inexperience along the offensive line.

Still, Howard points to seniors Danny Rogers (6-1, 240) and Maurice Biggs (6-0, 280) as the anchors up front.

“They don’t talk a lot but lead by example,” said the head coach

Despite the line’s overall lack of experience, Howard said the group “held their own recently” in a joint practice with Memphis’s Pure Academy

Yet, in a benefit game against West Memphis Aug 15, the offense was whistled for nine first quarter penalties – mostly false starts and procedure calls.

“They just don’t have the experience of playing in a high school game,” he said Defensively, Howard says King, a safety, and inside linebacker Chris Hatcher are his leaders on that side of the ball with Battles a mainstay at outside linebacker.

The coaching staff will

need to replace linebacker Vanterrues Lucas who transferred to Gosnell during the offseason

LET’S WIN!!

Tuesday-Friday

Jayln Hogan, a senior, is the team’s edge rusher and looks to disrupt the opponent’s offense

Also up front are Biggs and Tyrone Davis, who return to right the team’s defensive fortunes this season.

However, even with the wealth of talent, “lack of team depth is a concern,” explains Howard “In a perfect world, you’d like to have strictly offensive guys and defensive guys Our guys understand they are going to have to play both sides of the ball; some extensively.”

Howard envisions a sideline of 100 players, akin to when he played.

Moreover, the goal is to establish a winning tradition and “develop a program kids want to be a part of,” he said

Winning in 2023 will be a tall task with conference foes Rivercrest, Pocahontas and Gosnell on the schedule as well as non-conference opponent Nettleton.

“I’m a competitor,” said Howard. “Not one game is any more important than the other. There’s not one weak team on our schedule and we know that.

“(Media) can overlook us and pick us middle of the pack,” he continued “That’s okay. That will keep us hungry and prevent us from becoming complacent.

“We’re just ready to strap’em up and go play and see what happens.”

Blytheville opened the season Aug 25 against 5A Mills, a year removed from a 10-win season.

New Head Chick Coach Gerrett Howard

BLYTHEVILLE C CHICKS

“Ideally, we want this program to be player led. I am trying to use my influence to show these guys how to lead. If you’re called to lead, then you have to step into it.” - Coach Gerrett Howard

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Warriors return skill players

By COSMO COSSEY Poinsett County Democrat Tribune

EPC was one win away from playing for a state title last year.

This season they want to have one more game than they did last year.

The Warriors return all their skill players and a boast of speed on both sides of the ball.

“This is the fastest team I've had since I've been here,” EPC head coach Brandon Powell said of this year ' s team.

EPC will have 27 players on the sideline with seven starters returning on each side of the ball

Senior Cooper Argo will switch from receiver to

quarterback this year and guide an EPC offense that averaged over 46 points a game last season. Argo can hurt defenses with his arm and his legs

Senior and all-state standout Dennis Gaines, Jr. is back after rushing for 3,232 yards and 44 touchdowns. Gaines has verbally committed to UCA and has a chance to etch his name two more times in the record books for career rushing yards and rushing touchdowns.

“Dennis has a different motor than anybody I've coached. He plays the whole game at the same speed and when others are tired at end of game, Dennis still has some motor

left,” Powell said. “Dennis makes his cuts like nobody I've seen and he gains yards as he makes his cuts It's impressive.

“He has added about 15 pounds to his frame this year,” Powell added.

Head Coach

Senior Omar McCuiston returns to play the X position and sophomore Tyrus Reel is back at the slot position Sophomores Dee Buchanan and Tristan Lard will both see playing time at wingback

Brandon Powell

Powell said.

“We are going to do what we do on offense just like last year.”

The offensive line will see new faces this year as the Warriors lost four starters with two of those being three-year starters.

Sophomore Doug Reel steps in for the graduated Ja'Markius Garrett, now a UAPB freshman

Sophomore Bari Shepherd fills the strong tackle spot left by Hayden Holiman and senior Landon Nichols returns to replace Emory Constant at left tackle.

Michael Collins, Jr. returns to start at left guard and senior Moises Penaloza, who saw some starts on the line last year, returns to play right guard.

Senior Tyler Moore returns at tight end and will see action running the ball for the Warriors. “The line is a concern for us this season. They'll be better as the season goes, but having our skill players back is a plus,”

Nichols and Penaloza will man the defensive end positions with Shepherd also seeing time at the end position Doug Reel will play the nose tackle position Gaines, Jr. and Buchanan will be the outside linebackers with Collins and sophomore Jake Spencer manning the inside linebacker spots Moore will step in at middle linebacker this season. Sophomore Cayden Kimbrell will also see playing time on the defensive line as sophomore Eli Blagg will see action at linebacker.

Tyrus Reel returns to play one cornerback spot and sophomore Jacob Gaines will start at the other cornerback spot Argo will play one safety spot and can drop down to play linebacker if needed McCuiston will play the other safety position. Sophomores Lard and Devin McGee will also see time in the secondary.

“We'll play a 3-5-3 base but will be multiple depending on the matchups,” Powell said “We'll be better on defense but will struggle with the run due to our size on the defensive line. We'll be better against the spread with our speed at linebacker and defensive backs.”

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Powell said there is a lot of talent in conference this season with several teams having players who have committed to play in college and several with new players

“It's going to be fun week to week,” Powell said.

Powell said it's hard to say who is the favorite in the conference as everyone is bringing back something back.

“Clarendon is athletic with a good quarterback Marked Tree might be the most athletic team in the conference and Des Arc will be tough as they won the conference last year and brings almost everybody back. McCrory will be better. Cross County will have several new faces and Lee is always athletic,” Powell said.

Powell hinted that any team in the league’s top four spots might make a run at a state title

“If we play our best ball, we will have a shot at the conference title. We have good senior leadership to lead us this year,” Powell added.

The Warriors will open the season on Sept. 1 when they host the Manila Lions at Warrior Field

2023-2024 EPC Senior High Cheerleaders are front row (l-r): Rylee Greene, Kelly Ann Lucas, Jaylynn Randall, Cameron Argo, Raegan Greene, Amber Biddle and Avah Wiggins Back row (l-r): Lillie Smith, Gabby Weathers, Reagan Holloway, Kyla Harston, Jalyn Constant, Aryanna Myrick and Mary Wilson.

“This is the fastest team I've had since I've been here.”

–EPC head coach Brandon Powell

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Gosnel l Pi rate Nation

Pirates look to win 4A-3 crown

By DAVID PIERCE NEA Town Courier

Entering his fifth season, Gosnell Pirate head coach Lewis Earnest is quick to say “this could be a special year,” and why not?

First and foremost, the football team has numbers – 49 are currently listed on the roster. Toss in speed, size and athleticism and this squad can realistically challenge Rivercrest and Pocahontas for a 4-3A crown.

The coaching staff saw success coming but maybe not quite as quickly as it has

“We didn’t think we would be this good this year,” explained Earnest who holds a 19-21 mark at the school. “(Staff ) thought next year would be our year to really challenge for a state championship”

Earnest credited the Pirates leap forward to a strong summer showing where they participated in six team camps and turned some heads

“That first 7-on-7 really opened our eyes,” he emphasized as mentioned the squad scored a total of 29 touchdowns to their opponents’ one “We do have something special here.”

Obviously the players have bought into the hype with 31 not missing a day of summer workouts and another 15 missing three days or less.

Only nine seniors dot the roster, but the balance of the team is littered with 16 juniors and 24 sophomores The sophomore class won the junior high conference title while going undefeated in 2022.

That soothes the sting of losing the likes of Floyd Williams, Mason Moore and Taderian Partee, all inking

letters of intent to play college ball, a little easier to swallow

“We lost a lot of good players,” Earnest said, “but replaced them with a talented group of sophomores. That helps a lot ”

Another benefit is the return of senior Cam Williams (6-1, 180) who is fielding offers from 15 Division I schools including Arkansas, Florida State, Notre Dame and the like

The two-way star posted a stat-filled junior campaign that included more than 1,000 yards receiving, while picking off eight passes on defense

According to Earnest, Williams is the epitome of a leader despite all the hype surrounding his recruitment.

“(Cam) is very grounded, a leader,” the coach explained. “Never misses a day, never misses a rep and challenges everyone on the team to do their best.”

Not only does Earnest recognize Williams’ talent, his peers in the profession do too.

“Just like the other night at Paragould,” recalled Earnest of a recent benefit game “Paragould’s coach said it was obvious Cam was the best player on the field.

“We’ve always known he was special,” he continued. “When he moved in his ninth grade year I thought this kid catches everything. (Cam) has best hands I’ve ever seen. He has grown into such a dynamic player. Having a wide receiver that creates matchup problems, makes it so much easier to run the ball.”

Distributing the ball will be two-fold as senior Trent Middleton and Brandon Razer will split reps at quarterback.

“Trent throws it better. Brandon runs it better,” said the head coach

Sophomores Jai Jacobs, Imari Young and Kylan Young will each get their fair share of touches either from running back spot or on the outside opposite Williams.

But the area which has Earnest and his staff excited is the offensive line

“Offensive line has dominated all summer,” the head coach said. “That’s what we like the most.”

The Pirates return starters Javonte Williams, Riley Grisham and Connor Wilson Joining that trio are sophomores Hunter Riggs, Hunter King and Colling Holmes, all of whom started every game of their seventh, eighth and ninth grade years.

On the f lip side of the ball, those six just mentioned are in an eightman rotation up front which includes Jamarrion Swanigan and Tre Guy.

Vanterrues Lucas, a transfer from Blytheville, occupies the middle linebacker spot where he was a starter for the Chicks last year “He’s a good one and we’re thankful to have him.”

Alongside Lucas is 2022 all-conference selection Carson Tally, a three-

year starter

In the secondary are Jacobs and Imari Young at corner, while Williams and Chad Stewart Jr. man the safety spots

“We have the potential to go two-deep every where,” Earnest added, “and we’re happy with that.”

With that combination of depth as well as the team’s talent, the Pirates goal is to win the 4A-3 title but Earnest realizes the team has to go through Pocahontas and Rivercrest to do it.

Head Coach Lewis

Earnest

He holds a 1-6 mark in his tenure against the two programs and wants to sweep the series this season despite both being road games.

“That’s our goal,” reiterated Earnest. “We want to win conference and we know to do that we have to beat those teams

“When I got the schedule I circled those two games,” he added.

Earnest emphasized not one game is more important than another and as much interest as the Blytheville game draws, “it is not our Super Bowl.”

“That game counts the same in the standings as Trumann, Highland, Pocahontas, Rivercrest, all of them,” he added.

Yes, Gosnell will field a stellar team that Earnest believes has the best chance at a conference title and deep state run as any team he’s coached in his time at Gosnell.

“I think it’s a good possibility,” he concluded “I can’t guarantee it but this team has all the pieces. As long as we stay relatively healthy, we’ll be in hunt for conference ”

Gosnell opens its season Aug. 25 at Piggott.

GOSNELL PIRATES

The members of the Gosnell High School football cheer squad are (front row, from left) Erin Robinson, Grace Glintborg and Bayli Green and (back row, from left) Leilah Prude, Lilly Cardoza, Brooklyn Moore, Hallee Griggs, Cheyenne Trapp, Whitney Ashley, Emerson Rouse, Kennedy Riggs, Morgan Hatch, Cheyenne Harrington and Emily Sullivan. The squad is coached by Sara Jenkins

Hornets Sting Em

Hornets look ing for trip to state playoffs

By COSMO COSSEY Poinsett County Democrat Tribune

Austin Jarrett steps into his first head coaching job but becomes the third head coach for the Harrisburg Hornets in the last three years.

Jarrett comes from Mountain Home where he was the offensive line for coach two years. He played college ball at Harding University

“Football has been part of my life since I started pee wee football. This is what I want to do and I can't imagine doing anything else,” Jarrett said.

Harrisburg will have 36 players on the roster and welcomes back starters on both sides of the ball. Jarrett said spring drills went well and added the team is ready for the season to start.

Junior Max Tracy will take over at quarterback after last year’s starter Eastin Gray decided not play football this year. Tracy saw action last year under center and lined up as a receiver on occasion.

“Max has done a good job all summer and is getting better everyday,” Jarrett said.

Joining Tracy in the backfield will be senior Brayden Kimble at fullback, while senior Conner Henderson and junior Braden Brock will split time at tailback

Sophomore Jakobe Tate will see

time in the backfield, too. “We have a pretty good stable of running backs, all will get some carries on the season,” Jarrett said.

Senior Evan Henley is back and gives the team a big time target with junior Andrew England giving the team speed at the position. Senior Ethan Chambers will be in the slot position and will get the ball in a lot of different ways for the Hornets.

Senior Mark Gabbie returns to play center as Aidan Mullins is back to play one guard spot. Senior Colten Harris and junior Jackson Brazille are battling for the other guard spot. Freshman Noah Mullins will join his brother on the line at one tackle spot, while sophomore Wyatt Smith will man the other tackle spot.

Senior Jordan Turner has been getting reps at the guard spot, too. Senior Trey Blackwood starts at tight end for the third year in a row

“We've had lots of competition up front for those jobs. We've had to move guys around and replace guys We'll put the best five players we have on the line and get to work,” Jarrett said

Jarrett said the offense will run the power spread and be multiple at times. He mentioned We might see some of the option during the year Jarrett sees the running backs being the strength on offense and an un-

proven offensive line as its weakness. “We have to get better on the line,” Jarrett said

Brock will line up at defensive end in Harrisburg's 4-3 defense as Noah Mullins will start at the other end spot. Blackwood and Tate will also see playing time at the end position.

Gabbie and Turner will be the defensive tackles with Harris and Aidan Mullins also seeing playing time there Brazille and sophomore Braiden Howard are battling for the middle linebacker spot, while Kimble will be the strong linebacker and Chambers will play the weak linebacker spot.

Henderson and England will be the cornerbacks. “I think they cover the pass well and are a couple of the best tacklers on the team,” Jarrett said

Sophomore Jax Mross moves from cornerback to strong safety and Henley returns to play free safety

Jarrett sees the strength of the defense as his outside linebackers and corners “Those guys will make a lot of plays for us this year,” Jarrett said. He sees the weakness as the triangle in the middle - his defensive tackles and his middle linebacker “We are still trying to figure what it's going to look like. I do know we will need to stop the run game,” Jarrett added

Tracy will handle all kicking duties this year.

“Max wants to kick in college He takes his craft very seriously,” Jarrett said.

Jarrett thinks the conference will be very good this year. “Rivercrest and Gosnell will both be good this year Blytheville will have talent as will Pocahontas. Trumann returns starters from a state playoff team and Westside and Highland always give a battle,” Jarrett said “Our guys think they can compete with anybody. If we can hang around in games and make it happen in the fourth quarter we can send some teams home unhappy

“We are at the bottom and we know it. We have to get the attitude that we can win games,” Jarrett added. “Our goal is to make the playoffs Once you make the playoffs anything can

happen if you get hot at the right time and get a favorable matchup.”

The Hornets kick off the season as they host neighboring county and rival Cross County Thunderbirds in a non-conference match-up at Jordan’s Stadium Aug 25

“Football has been part of my life since I started pee wee football. This is what I want to do and I can't imagine doing anything else.”

– Head Coach Austin Jarrett

H HARRISBURG H HORNETS

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The Harrisburg Hornets Senior High Cheerleaders are (front row, from left) Gw yneth Zimmerman, Landry McClusky, Kierra Burnett and Amber Norris; and (back row, from left) Alaina Hunter, Nadia Farmer, Angela Killabrew, Kaylynn Bruce and Allie Henley

Fisher takes the helm in Manila

By STEVE KNOX Osceola Times

MANILA - Ben Fisher, the veteran former head coach at Blytheville, has taken over as head coach of the Manila football program Fisher inherits a Lions program that stumbled to a three-win season, one year after its best season in the modern era Fisher, while not quite sure of the make of the 3A-3 Conference, is working to get the Lions back in the winning column this season. “I have been surprised by how well the kids have picked up our new schemes on both offense and defense,” said the coach. “We have been talking about our goals and of course, the first one is to make the playoffs. The second is to host a playoff game and the third is to compete for the conference title ”

As Fisher alluded to in his comments, the Lions attack will have a different look this season as they

move to the spread offense Fisher will call the plays.

Triggering the Manila attack will be sophomore quarterback Isaac Moore. Moore led the Junior Lions offense last season.

Backing him up will be Greene County Tech transfer Jayden Miller. The Lions receiving corps will be two deep The H receivers will be juniors Luke Roberts and Dakota Miles. The X receivers will be senior Jacob Baugher and junior Trey Platz. The T receivers are sophomore Hunter Harrison and junior Josh Miles. The Z receivers are sophomores Carson Nunnally and Kallum McWhirter. “Any of them

could start and be on the field at any time,” said Fisher.

The Lions will have three players rotating in the backfield. They are junior Matthew Walker, and seniors Brent Williams and Drake Morris

The offensive line will consist of threeyear starter at right tackle senior Matthew Parrish, senior right guard Byron Kisner, junior center Chase Spencer, sophomore left guard Kaleb Birmingham and junior left tackle Landon Harris, The H-backs are senior Kayden Horton and K D Tipton.

Head Coach

Ben Fisher

“Our goal is to run as many plays as we can on offense and keep the other team off balance. The more plays we run the better chance we have to put points on the board,” said Fisher.

On defense, Manila is going away from an even front and will be in an odd front this season “We will go to a 3-4,” said Fisher. Manning the nose is senior Wade Evans, who will be backed up by Williams. The defensive ends will be senior Heath Pearson, who will

Roar Lions Roar

be backed up by Kisner and Parrish, who will be spelled by Horton

The linebackers will be experienced with sophomore Clayton Hawkins, Tipton, Dawson Howard, Morris and Roberts all rotating at the two inside backer spots. The outside linebackers will be junior Matthew Walker, sophomore Carson Storey, and McWhirter, rotating at those two positions

The secondary will include Roberts, Baugher and Harrison, all of whom could

be called on to start depending on the situation. The safeties will be Platz, Nunnally, Josh Miles and Baugher if needed. As with the corners, any of the safeties could be counted on to start if necessary.

The kicking game will have senior Juan Sanchez doing the place kicking. Platz and Moore will handle the punting, but Fisher would like to see if Sanchez

could be worked into the position as well.

While not sure about the conference race, Fisher’s goals remain the same. “We want to change the perception of the program and build a winning legacy and a tradition of success We want to compete for a playoff spot and hopefully the conference title ”

“We have been talking about our goals and of course, the f irst one is to make the playoffs. The second is to host a playoff game and the third is to compete for the conference title.”

- Head Coach Ben Fisher

M MANILA L LIONS

Fisher, while not quite sure of the make of the 3A-3 Conference, is working to get the Lions back in the winning column this season.

The members of the 2023 Manila High School Cheer Squad are: seniors Caitlin Cole, Eboni Brown, Eden Chipman, Emily Pryor, Gracie Ball, Haley Harvey, Kinsley Stabbs, Melinda Morris and Olivia McClure; juniors Hannah Counts and Taye Holifield; and sophomores Aubry Polk, Kylee Lasater, Madison Terry, Lilly Jackson and Row yn Shanks The squad is coached by Nicole Evers.

– Head Coach Waylon Dunn

Marked Tree looks for return to postseason play

By COSMO COSSEY Poinsett County Democrat Tribune

Marked Tree returns several starters on both sides of the ball and head coach Waylon Dunn hopes that and a few new transfers will send his team back to the Class 2A state football playoffs this season.

The Indians finished 9-3 losing to state champion Hazen 46-6 in the second round. “I feel good about what we have this year. The offensive line is a concern with new faces and some not having a lot of experience,” Dunn said. “I like our group of kids on defense. We have experience and speed on that side of the ball ”

Marked Tree will have 32 kids on the roster.

Junior Kenyon Carter returns to guide the Indians offense. Carter had a good sophomore season with only six interceptions thrown and Dunn hopes he is even better this year

“He's bulked up some from last year. He's been working out on his own and it definitely shows. He's added a little more speed this year too,” Dunn said “With a year under his belt and a full knowledge of the playbook, we are looking for a good year from KC ”

Senior Timothy Risper will start at tailback after seeing action there last year. Sophomore TJ Hodges moved back to Marked Tree and will see extensive action in the backfield.

“TJ adds another gear we ' ve not had in a while He

hits the hole, explodes and accelerates quickly,” Dunn said.

Senior Jay vion Tribble will also see time in the backfield. “I think our corps of running backs are a strength to our team this year. We can keep legs fresh during the games,” Dunn said

Senior Cam Marshall returns at receiver and will join with senior JJ Risper as targets for Carter. Junior Tate Swink will play wingback for the Indians “Tate has really good hands and he blocks extremely well when we run the ball,” Dunn said.

Senior Wesley Pitts anchors the offensive line at center and will be f lanked by junior Ryan Wages and sophomore Peyton Willoughby at the guard spots. Seniors Jakyron Reel and Jayce Ruthven will start at the tackle positions. Junior Gavin Teague will help on the line this season

All-state Jonah Walker returns for his junior year to play tight end

“We hope to move Jonah around some this season and see if we can get some mismatches with defenders Jonah was clocked at 4.6 at a camp this summer, not bad for a kid who's 6’6” and 240 pounds,” Dunn said.

Junior Martavious Davis and sophomore newcomer junior Jallyn Thrower will also help at tight end.

The Indians return eight starters on defense as Swink and Tribble will line

Head Coach Waylon Dunn

up at the defensive end spots. Junior Ryan Wages and Ruthven are set to start as the defensive tackles

Walker returns to play middle linebacker after having over 100 tackles to lead the team last year.

Brothers Timothy and JJ Risper will man the outside linebacker positions “This is a good group of linebackers. They are all three quick to the ball and are good tacklers,” Dunn said.

Thrower, who can play defensive end or linebacker, is the X factor according to Dunn. “He's a big kid at 6’3”, 250 pounds for a sophomore. He will actually help us on both sides of the ball,” Dunn added

Marshall and junior Ja'Kaymion Williams both return to start at the cornerback spots with newcomer junior Dawson Brown and junior Landon Lewis playing the safety

positions.

“I'm excited to have this group with a mixture of experience and speed in the secondary,” Dunn said Hodges and Davis will both see time on the defensive side of the ball this season

Swink will be the team’s punter and Williams will handle the kickoffs “We probably won't kick very many extra points. Kicking is a lost art in a lot of schools these days, unless you have a soccer player at your school,” Dunn said

Dunn thinks this conference is the toughest 2A conference in the state “All four of our teams won their first round games and EPC made it to the semifinals I think if you make the playoffs you may have a chance to make the finals,” Dunn said. “Des Arc won last year with lots of kids back, Cross County has several new players. EPC has one of best backs in conference in Dennis Gaines, Jr Earle and Clarendon are both tough opponents and McCrory has a special running back.

“I hope we are up there, too. I think anybody can beat anybody on any night,” Dunn added “You will have to prepare well for each week of conference play ”

Marked Tree opens the season when they host Hector Aug 25 at Don Lovell Memorial Field.

“The expectations are high after last year especially with so many kids back. The kids have high expectations and with each game you win, it gets a little higher,” Dunn said.

MARKED T TREE I INDIAINS

2023-2024 Marked Tree Senior High Cheerleaders are (bottom row, from left) Ally Criswell, Chasalee Easley, Harper Hawkins, Abby Hutchins, Ava Harsson and Jade Crockett; (top row, from left) Jasmyn Nesby, Shayla Gibbs, Ryleigh Harbin, Maggie Simpson, Jaloni Washington, Emma Criswell and Ashyah Watkins. Not pictured: Emma Wages.

The members of the 2023 Osceola High School cheer squad are (front row, from left) Imani Rucker, Nakiyah Ward, America McNeal, A'miracle Smith; and (second row, from left) Chamya Moore, Precious Hackett, Takiria Robinson, Isis Harris, Shakari Black, Courtney Douglas, Kelsey Carr and KiAsia Bragg.

S eminoles look to keep 2022 momentum going

By STEVE KNOX Osceola Times

Osceola head football coach Jamie Carter is confident that his team can keep last season’s success going

Osceola overcame a 0-3 start with an eight-game winning streak which carried them to the 3A-3 title and the quarterfinals of the Class 3A playoffs

“Last year we got off to a rough start. We had our opportunities to win against Newport, Blytheville and Gosnell. This year I think we can grab some momentum and get some early wins to give our kids the confidence,” said Carter.

This season Osceola only has four home games, two of which come Sept. 1 against Blytheville and Sept. 8 against Gosnell.

The remaining two are Oct 7 against Palestine-Wheatley and Nov. 3 against Manila.

Osceola opens the season Aug. 25 at Newport, then faces East Poinsett County Sept 15 before traveling outof-state to face Kossuth, Miss., Sept. 22.

The road-weary Noles face Piggott Sept. 29 to open conference play The final two road games are Oct 20 at Walnut Ridge and Oct. 28 at Hoxie.

“I like playing on the road,” said Carter. “I tell my kids we need to come off the bus ready to play and make their house our home.”

The Seminoles quest to repeat as 3A-3 champions begins with five non-conference games before finishing with five consecutive conference clashes.

Osceola, one of the highest scoring teams in Class 3A in 2022 at nearly 40 points per game, will have a new leader at the helm in sophomore signal caller Tyler Bell.

Bell showed promise and athleticism over the summer in 7-on-7 and team camps

“He doesn’t let things bother him,” said Carter, “He can make a mistake and he puts it behind him and gets on to the next play ”

Backing up Bell will be fellow sophomore MJ Washington and junior Jeremiah Jacobs will line up at quarterback in certain instances

The running backs will be Jacobs and Chris James. “Both run hard,” said Carter.

The receivers will be senior Keenan Jackson at the X position and Anthony Brown will be the Z receiver The Y receiver will be sophomore William Spencer and the H receiver will be senior Aiden Haymon.

Backing up at the receiver spots will be junior Julius Merrit, sophomore Atrion Fultz and Tyrese James.

“We have talent on that side of the ball, Bell, Jackson, Jacobs, Haymon, James, Brown, etc We want to get ball in the hands of our playmakers as many ways as we can,”

said Carter.

The offensive line will have more size than last year with senior center Keviss Love leading the way. The right guard will be Karis Littleton and the right tackle will be Donavon Littleton The left guard will be Peyunta Scott and the right tackle will be Garyn Cook

Spencer, Harris Manning, T’Kevion Watson and Kamden Whitted will lend depth on the line.

Offensive coordinator Bode Stane is back for his second season calling plays.

Head Coach

The Seminoles special teams, coached by Carter, could be electric Kickoffs will be returned by Jackson and Jacobs. Punts will be handled by Jacobs, Fultz and Jackson.

Handling the place kicking will be Washington, while punting will be done by Fultz, who will be backed up by Donavon Littleton.

The Seminoles only return three starters on defense and welcome a new coordinator with Coach Kenny Jackon leading the defense.

“We will line up with either three or four down depending on the situation,” said Carter

In the mix on the defensive line will be Spencer, Manning, Scott and Watson. “We will give people some different looks, depending on the situation,” added the head coach.

The linebackers will include Jacobs, who logged more than 140 stops in 2022, junior Zion Simpson and Washington, who played in the middle last season

The secondary will have Fultz, Merrit and Brown at the corners, while Bell, Zadan Buchanan and Haymon will split time at safety Tyrese James and Chris James could be contributors in the secondary as well.

As for the season, Carter believes Walnut Ridge and Hoxie will be the top two competitors for the conference title.

“Walnut Ridge has lots of size and so does Hoxie. They will be tough, but I think we will be able to compete with them,” said Carter. “Our goal remains to win the conference, get home field advantage in the playoffs and see where it takes us We will take it one game at a time ”

Seminole fans hope that the process leads to a state title game in early December in Little Rock.

OSCEOLA SEMINOLES

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Colts seek 4A title

By DAVID PIERCE Osceola Times

Rivercrest football is recognized as one of the more traditional programs in the state.

The Colts have been synonymous with winning; chalking up three state titles (1985, 2010, 2017) as well as four state runner up finishes.

Why would 2023 be any different?

“Yeah, we always expect big things,” said Rivercrest head coach Johnny Fleming, entering his sixth season as head football coach and 35th overall. “Most of our skill players back, most of our line, and about seven players on each side of the ball.”

The Colts have missed a conference title two years in a row, but have designs on securing their 34th title in the program’s history

That crown came in 2020 and it is that team, which played for a state title, Fleming uses as comparison to this one.

“With Kam (Turner) and Keyshawn (Scott) the team had a chance to score at any time,” said the head coach of the 2020 duo, “and it’s the same with this year’s We have Koby (Turner) and Mike (Rainer) and they are capable to do it, too.”

Despite missing, a couple games last season, Turner, one of 20 seniors on the squad, rushed for more than 1,100 yards and 21 touchdowns. Moreover, Rainer was just as effective – out of the backfield or on the outside. The senior had more than 2,000 all-purpose yards in 2022 and might be the best-kept secret in the state.

“Our best bet may be to give Koby the ball 25 times a game and see what happens,” said Fleming with a smirk harkening to the days when Rivercrest was Running back U “Well, I hope at least 20.

“(Koby) can make people miss in tight windows and is hard to tackle ”

Rainer, the team’s Mr. Versatility, will line up at any of the receiver positions, in the backfield and “if the

team needs a spark,” he’ll step in at quarterback

“Mike gets a step or gets a defender to bite on a head fake, he can go score quick” said Fleming Returning at quarterback is junior Cavonta Washington who tossed for nearly 1,700 yards and 18 touchdowns last year.

Fleming said Washington is becoming more effective at reading the runpass option and continues to develop as a passer.

Head Coach

about 40 players. Typical for Rivercrest but Fleming emphasized that everyone the staff plans to play has been participating in offseason.

Slayton and Turner draw the assignments at linebacker, while Wyatt Lancaster lines up at end where he recorded the second most tackles on the team in 2022.

In the secondary, expect Kevin Morris and Jakavion Williams to operate at corner, while multiple players vie for time at safety including Young, Span, Keiran Morris and Hunter Ellis

And the talent isn’t limited to those three as senior running back Marcus Slayton (6-1, 220) is a bruiser out of the backfield. He has been sidelined after recent minor medical procedure but is expected to be ready by the season opener.

Then there’s the Morris brothers, Kevin and Keiran, Michael Fascon, plus sophomores Jayden Young, Budda Harris and Kash Span. All are options in the slot and on the outside.

Harris, recovering from a hamstring pull, is 6-2 and “ can go up and catch it,” said Fleming handing out superlatives to all his skill players.

Securing spots on the offensive line are center Jered Roberston, Ian McClain, Shunn Perry and Amarion Lofton who, “has physically transformed his body. He looks like a running back but he’s on the line. I expect a breakout season from him ”

“We’re pretty solid on offense,” Fleming reiterated. “We’re confident in every position we have over there Same way with our backups. Yep, we’re fortunate.”

Defensively, you’ll see many of the same names as the roster boasts

“All around, we have good team chemistry,” explained Fleming, “ a good mixture of seasoned players combined with some young guys we think can help us

“Doesn’t mean we won’t start the season 1-3 again,” he added recalling the team’s mark through the first four games in 2022

The team sees the same opponents with Mills and Valley View, 5A schools, in the non-conference before opening 3-4A play against last year’s league champion Pocahontas.

“You always want to start conference play with a win,” said Fleming, “and the kids want to get at Mills, Valley View We won’t see a conference team as good as those two.”

“Plus, you got Blytheville and Gosnell,” Fleming continued “You know they’re always gonna be athletic.”

Nevertheless, Fleming knows if his team plays to their potential and has a few breaks go their way along the way, the Colts have a title shot.

“I think our first 11 are as good as anyone’s first 11. This group wants to play football and they expect to win,” concluded the head coach, “and they can be really, really good.

“If you don’t believe me, just go ask them,” he added with a smile

Johnny Fleming

R RIVERCREST C COLTS

Superintendent-MikeCox

AssistantSuperintendent-ShanteleRaper

Principal-BillBur eld

HeadCoachandAthleticsDirector-JohnnyFleming

The 2023 Rivercrest football cheerleaders are (front row, from left) Mary Jo Booker, Emma Brooks, Hayley Gore, Grace Strop, Kyleigh Routledge, Chesnee Chandler, Raven Powell, Addy Norvell and Lexus Willwerth; and (back row, from left) Coach Elea Robertson, Shriya Patel, Callee Wryn Fincher, Madylin Owens, Karlee Cullom, Molli Austin, Carleigh Williams, Taylor Routledge, Gabby Borkholder, Kenadi Raines, and Hannah Gray.

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– Trumann Head Coach Gunner Cook

Wildcats return seasoned team

By COSMO COSSEY Poinsett County Democrat Tribune

Gunner Cook steps in as the new head coach for the Trumann Wildcats after Randy Phillips departed for the head job at Paragould

This is Cook’s third year with the team after stops in Hoxie, Corning and Valley View.

“The transition has been smooth It’s really helped having already been on the staff and knowing all the kids,” Cook said “Those relationships are already in place.”

The Wildcats will have around 45 kids on the roster with a few starters back on each side of the ball

Senior Jake Osment takes over at quarterback after being the backup last year. Osment saw time at receiver and running back last year

“Jake will need to be a dual threat for us this year. He’ll need to have as many carries as our backs do,” Cook said.

The Wildcats will move to the power spread on offense this year.

Senior Cade Hatton returns at running back after rushing for over 600 yards last season. Senior Coda Cameron, junior Rico Hunt and sophomore Brodie Popejoy will all see time in the backfield as well Sophomore Gavin Cubit will line up at fullback for the Wildcats

Senior Gavin Greenwell returns at receiver with sophomore Brandon Dohm also seeing time at the receiver spot. Cameron will also see time as a slot receiver as will sophomore

Cade Hayse

Six players return on the offensive line as senior Brody McDaniel will line up at center with senior Thomas Chavarria lining up at left guard. Senior Justin Price will man the left tackle spot with senior Evan Shrout playing left tackle. Sophomore Devin Smithson will be the right guard Senior Efrain Garcia will be the tight end.

“Our offensive line will be our strength with five returning. I think our skills guys are also a big plus for the team this year,” Cook said of his offense.

The Trumann defense will keep the same basic 42-5 scheme and build off that each game depending on what their opponents do on offense. “Our defensive line and secondary will be a strength for us this year,” Cook said.

Senior Carson Smith returns to play nose tackle as Cubit will play defensive tackle, earning the starting job there last year after moving up after the junior high season. Garcia returns to start at one defensive end spot with sophomore Cade Hayse lining up at the other defensive end spot

Chavarria will play one inside linebacker as senior Jonathan Vazquez and sophomores Isaiah Carillo and Ethen Swindle battle for the other outside linebacker spot. Osment returns to play the viper

position (defensive back who can drop down and play outside linebacker) with Popejoy playing the strong outside linebacker position

Cameron and Hatton return as the cornerbacks as Cook says both players are good tacklers. Greenwell is back at strong safety where he led the team with 83 tackles last year.

“It’s great having all our secondary back Hatton and Cameron are good on the coverage and don’t let many get around the edge Greenwell fills the lanes well and meets guys at the line of scrimmage a lot of times,” Cook said.

Garcia will handle all the kicking duties for the Wildcats again this season.

“Our key to success will be going to work every day and staying focused, which this group does well,” Cook said “We’ll need to keep the energy up with high intensity in practice to carry over to games This group is resilient and I am excited if that carries over to season We are going to step on the gas and keep it going each game.”

Cook said the main team goal this year is to finish top three and host a state playoff game

Trumann’s conference could be the toughest conference in NEA from top to bottom according to Cook.

“Rivercrest will be one of the best teams in the state. Pocahontas is always really good and Gosnell can beat anybody any week Blytheville will be super athletic with a talented running back coming back and Harrisburg, Highland and Westside are all gritty teams. You can't take a week off with any of these teams because they will be ready to come play,” Cook said

“The 4A level ball is very good and every team thinks they can be the best in the state,” added Cook. “I like our kids and like our chances and I think we can be in the mix of things if we accomplish our goals.

“This town loves football; they almost shut down on Thursday and Friday to watch the teams play The stands are packed and people are lined up and down the fences The support has been unwavering. If we win a game or lose a game, they are there for the game the next week,” Cook said of the community.

The Wildcats open the season with Hoxie, Cook’s alma mater, Aug. 25 at RMC Stadium

“They’ll be a good test for us. Coach Tom Sears is a great coach and will have his guys ready to play,” Cook said.

Head Coach Gunner Cook

T TRUMANN W WILDCATS

64 - Noah Barnes 70 - Victor Guttierrez

71 - Andrew Short

72 - Thomas Chavarria

76 - Christian Garcia

77 - Zane Price

2023-2024 Trumann Senior High Cheerleaders are (front row, from left) Rita Morales, Madison McCamey, Jaci Osment, Caroline Crowe, MaryBeth Penter, Jaelyn Craig and Catoria Addison; (middle row, from left) Ashley Gross, Asia McCuiston, Alivia Richardson, Zoey King, Cecilia Goldman, Lily Cronkhite and Keely Beavers; and (back row, from left) Kara Taylor, Kiaya Correa, Lynlee Correa, Oshua Smith, Trenton Blagg, Madison Barnes, Jade Greer and Shealyn Alexander-Spencer Not pictured are Mercedez Burchell and Emma Beth Francis

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