Photos Ivan Felipe
Cartersville rounded out another successful season in 24-25, marking the 12th year in a row having double-digit wins. Their season would come to an end in the Elite 8, after falling to eventual state champion North Oconee by two points.
“Anytime we don’t reach the end goal of winning a state championship, there is going to be some disappointment. Those games are why we play here; these kids want to represent the community at the highest level. We played incredibly tough and battled through a lot of injuries and adversity, but there’s a lot of credit to our development and preparation for the next group. I am really proud of our group for hanging in there and continuing to get better every week,” said Head Coach Conor Foster.
Cartersville had numerous guys playing in the state championship for baseball and track, so the spring window may have looked a little different.
“With a lot of our guys out, we really got to develop and pour into some of the younger guys. It was a lot of fun. It was a different feel working with more young players and allowing them the opportunity to grow and have trial and error. I think it will pay dividends when the season starts.”
“We are always intentional about always developing leadership. We had some turnover on our staff for the first time in a long time, and have had some guys rejuvenate our weight room and add some new blood. I’m excited about developing relationships, and adding some new pieces to the program.”
With big goals being the norm every season, it is crucial to get the most out of the players. “We want to make sure we are doing the most with what we have. We want to get the most out of our young kids, especially to be successful in life after football. As far as our infinite goal, I think we will measure our success down the road to see how these young men turn out.”
The Purple Hurricanes routinely have all kinds of talent riddled on the depth chart, and this year is no different. Braylon Hill, upcoming senior, will be a tremendous add on at running back. The sophomore class got thrown into the fire as freshmen, but certain names will blossom such as Kylan Pope, Cooper Melvin, and Tripp Chatmon, Maddox Davis, Kayden Kent, and KT Blackwell. Georgia verbal Brady Marchese is primed to have a monster senior campaign, as well as Nate Russell, who has been a three year starter. All five starting offensive lineman are back, led by Tulane commit Langston Hogg. Cole Crawford and Brayden Logan will be juniors who are heating up on the recruiting trail. Grayson Vilar will be big up front, and Grayson Womack will see significant time as a junior safety.
“The first thing that comes to my mind is running out of the smoke of Weinman Stadium, and getting to serve our community. It’s what gets you through those long spring and summer days, and I’m so excited for our community; they always do a great job.”
Talent is never insufficient at Cartersville. Always expect the Purple Hurricanes to be in the running to play come Christmas time in the Benz.
