Photos Rome Wolves
Rome put the lid on their 24-25 with yet another region championship, marking the fourth region title in a row and 8 out of 10 years under John Reid. Their season would come to an end after falling to Thomas County Central in the Sweet 16.
“We got off to an absolutely terrible start. We had championship teams the first two games in Toombs County and Carrollton and had to cancel the Corky Kell game. The rest of the season went pretty well, we got our bearings and feet back underneath us. However, losing in the second round of the playoffs isn’t something we do around here,” said Head Coach John Reid.
“Every year is a different year. We have to evaluate what this team can do and can’t do. It is a hard and long process from the starting game to where we want to be at the end of the year. We come here with a plan that’s strategic and in depth, and that can be a lot for a kid.”
“Right now, we are trying to develop situational awareness. When it’s 3rd and 3, we don’t just need three, we need four. If you don’t do it right, we are punting the ball. We can have big enough and fast enough kids, but it is a matter of playing together and managing situations and playing together.”
For a program like Rome, having rigorous expectations is guaranteed. “We want our kids to be tough. We teach our kids to be loyal, dedicated, and tough, and that’s what we expect out of our players. Everyone comes from unique situations, and it is a necessity to focus on the big picture and develop these young men. Our kids strive to reach a high level.”
“When it’s a Friday night, you can put it however you want, but it’s our work versus their work. We are gonna get after it. However, it’s bigger than football. I love seeing the kids’ faces. You want to see the people you work with and teach go out and be successful, so I’m always excited to see what we can do as one.”
Talent is never lacking for a John Reid-led Wolfpack. Georgia Tech verbals JJ Winston and Darnell Collins spotlight a talented secondary and receiving core. Nasir Jones, Coastal Carolina commit, highlights a massive offensive trench core, with Brooklen Spivey and Ulysses Nicholson being the interior guys. TJ McClain and Josh Reynolds are guys who will play tackle. For the defensive side, Dash Kinnebrew, reigning region DPOY, will be back. Jyquice Mccrary has been racking up some noise this offseason. Jaden Clowers looks to fill the shoes of Jaedon Harmon, and Shauntavious Worfford will see minutes at safety.
The quarterback room is deep, as Braxton Anderson and Aidan McPherson shared time last season, with a new face in Zach Parker, an extremely talented freshman.
The norm of Rome has become talent and depth at every position. Don’t be surprised if the Wolves are playing in December in Atlanta again.
