The Observer’s 2022 Mecklenburg County public high school football preview
Here is The Observer’s annual preview of public school football in Mecklenburg County. The preview includes private Charlotte Catholic which has long played in public school leagues.
ARDREY KELL
Head Coach: Greg Jachym (4th year).
2021 Record: 8-3
Conference: SoMeck 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 14
Returning Lettermen: 35
Key Returning Starters: Khyler Watson, Sr. OLB (6-3, 240); Joshua Switzer, Sr., S/RB/KR (5-10, 185); Brooks Stankavage, Sr., WR/RB (5-11, 180); Ethan Presutty, Sr., WR (6-1, 195); Jalen Toye-Ellis, Sr., WR (5-10, 180); James Stepp, Sr., LB (5-10, 220); Chancellor Bryant, Jr., DB (5-10, 170); Xavier Esquillen, Sr., DL (6-2, 240); Jack Ludwick, Jr., OL (6-0, 250); Beylor Morgan, Sr., RB (5-11, 230); Elijah Smith, Sr., OL (6-1, 250).
Other Key Returnees: N/A.
Key Newcomers: Brandon Stoner, So., OL (6-4, 285).
Outlook: Ardrey Kell has been on the rise the past three seasons, going 25-7. This year, the Knights look to carry on that momentum with 14 starters back. Among them are senior running backs Beylor Morgan (768 yards rushing, eight touchdowns), Brooks Stankavage and Joshua Switzer, as well as wide receivers Ethan Presutty and Jalen Toye-Ellis. The Knights’ defense will also rely on seniors, led by James Stepp (55 tackles) and Khyler Watson (53 tackles, nine sacks) as well as defensive backs Chancellor Bryant (four interceptions) and Switzer (94 tackles, five sacks, two interceptions).
BERRY
Head Coach: Andrew Howard (7th season).
2021 Record: 3-5.
Conference: SoMeck 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 7
Returning Lettermen: 14
Key Returning Starters: Tyler Perkins, Sr., DB (5-10, 175); Cameron Macon, Jr., WR (6-1, 180); JaQuis Frankin, Sr., Center (5-9, 215); Demetrius Hargraves, Sr., QB (6-2, 200); Brandon Hayes, Sr., OL (6-4, 279); Shameko Straight, Sr., OL (6-0, 265); Savalas Ray, Sr., DB (6-0, 183).
Other Key Returnees: Isaiah Hames, Sr., DB (6-0, 185); Daveon Bess, Sr., LB (5-10, 190); Maysen Gaithers, Sr., OL (6-0, 270).
Key Newcomers: Cameron Wilson, Sr., DL (6-2, 190); Xavier Preston, Jr., WR (6-0, 169); Jadakiss Fields, Jr., RB (5-9, 170).
Outlook: Berry has struggled in recent times with eight wins in the past five season. This year with only seven starters back, the Cardinals’ offense will look to senior quarterback Demetrius Hargraves, junior receiver Cameron Macon and an experienced offensive line featuring seniors JaQuis Franklin, Brandon Hayes and Shameko Straight. The Berry defense will have to reload but has an experienced secondary with seniors Tyler Perkins and Salavas Ray returning.
BUTLER
Head Coach: Brian Hales (12th).
2021 Record: 7-3
Conference: Southwestern 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 9 (2 offense; 7 defense).
Returning Lettermen: 16
Key Returning Starters: J.J. Coleman, Sr., LB/DE (6-1, 220); Peyton Scott, Sr., LB/DE/TE (6-4, 215); Eli Sylvester, Sr., WR (5-10, 170); Jaylen Jones, Sr., WR/DB (6-0, 185); Myles Lawson, Sr., DB/LB (5-11, 170); Devin Rivers, Sr., OL (5-10, 225); Phillip Harris, Jr., DB/WR (6-2, 180).
Other Key Returnees: D.J. Horton, Sr., RB (5-8, 180); Makhi Carr, Sr., WR (5-9, 160); Tyquan Rankin, Jr., LB/RB (5-10, 185).
Key Newcomers: Nick Darling, Jr., LB/DB/WR (6-0, 195); Dequadre Currance, So., DB/WR (5-10, 160); Zach Lawrence, So., QB (6-0, 190).
Outlook: The defending Southwestern 4A champions will be younger, with only nine starters back, but Hales has proven he can reload quickly, averaging 11 wins per season in his 11-year tenure as head coach. The Butler defense, which allowed 13.6 points per last season, will be the strength of the team early on with seven starters back. That group is led by senior linebackers J.J. Coleman and Peyton Scott and senior defensive backs Phillip Harris and Myles Lawson. The Butler offense, which averaged 32 points per game last year, will lean on senior playmakers Jaylen Jones and Eli Sylvester with classmate Devin Rivers, back to lead the offensive line. Sophomore quarterback Zach Lawrence should also have an immediate impact in his first year as the starter.
CHARLOTTE CATHOLIC
Head Coach: Mike Brodowicz (9th year)
2021 Record: 7-3
Conference: Southwestern 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 11 (9 offense; 2 defense).
Returning Lettermen: 42
Key Returning Starters: Jack Larson, Jr., TE (6-3, 225); Sean Boyle, Sr., QB (6-3, 185); Gavin Hood, Sr., DT (6-1, 320); Clint Barlow, Sr., OT (6-4, 315); John Macuga, Sr., Center (6-3, 255); Griffin Sovine, Sr., FB (6-0, 206).
Other Key Returnees: N/A.
Key Newcomers: N/A.
Outlook: Charlotte Catholic has averaged 13 wins per season in his Brodowicz’s eight-year tenure. But the Cougars will have plenty of motivation in 2022 after finishing 7-3 a year ago and losing in the first round of the 4A playoffs. As usual, Catholic will run the ball early and often with a heavy dose of senior fullback Griffin Sovine (603 yards rushing, six touchdowns last year) behind a veteran offensive line featuring Clint Barlow and John Macuga. The Cougars can throw the ball as with the tandem of quarterback Sean Boyle (Charlotte 49ers’ commit) and tight end Jack Larson (Notre Dame commit). The Catholic defense can rely on 320-pound defensive tackle Gavin Hood to cause trouble in opposing backfields.
COMMUNITY SCHOOL OF DAVIDSON
Head Coach: T.J. Albert (11th year).
2021 Record: 8-3 (6-0 in the Catawba Shores’ 1A/2A Conference).
Conference: Catawba Shores’ 1A/2A Conference.
Returning Starters: 18
Returning Lettermen: 32
Key Returning Starters: Aidan Morris, Sr., MLB/TE (6-0, 220); Liam Sherman, Sr., OG/DT (6-2, 275); Tanner Mullins, Jr., WR/DB (6-1); Bennett McCreary, Sr., RB (6-1); Tye Allison, Sr., WR/CB (5-9, 170); Cooper Ricks, Sr., DE (6-4, 215); Brandon Albert, So., WR/ATH (5-11); Tyler Curlee, Sr., MLB (6-0, 140).
Other Key Returnees: Oliver Morris, So., WR (5-10 , 170); Brandon Hettwer, So., ATH (6-3, 185); Aedan Davis, Jr., DB.
Key Newcomers: A.J. Siriani; Lane McClure.
Outlook: The Spartans had a great regular season in 2022, winning eight games, including a perfect 6-0 to claim the Catawba Shores’ 1A/2A conference title. But a first-round playoff loss to East Gaston will give a veteran team (18 starters back) a lot of motivation going into this season. The Community School of Davidson offense, which averaged 30 points per game, will feature senior running back Bennett McCreary, senior receiver Tye Allison, junior receiver Tanner Mullins and an experienced offensive line led by senior Liam Sherman. The Spartans’ defense is experienced with seniors in middle linebacker Aidan Morris, defensive end and Cooper Ricks leading the unit.
CORVIAN CHARTER
Head Coach: Chris Amill (1st year).
2021 Record: New team.
Conference: Independent/1A.
Outlook: Coach Chris Amill takes over a brand-new program that is sure to endure the usual growing pains of a first-year team. Amill has a history of starting a program from scratch having done so in his previous head coach job at Chaney High in Youngstown, OH, where he went 18-12 overall.
EAST MECKLENBURG
Head Coach: Lennie Sanders (2nd year).
2021 Record: 1-9 (1-5 in the Southwestern 4A Conference).
Conference: Southwestern 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 11 (5 offense; 6 defense).
Returning Lettermen: 18
Key Returning Starters: Parker Storey, Sr., TE (6-2, 215); Torrence Casey, Jr., CB (5-10, 170); Nyron Paige, Sr., LB/RB (5-10, 185); Frank Guzman, Jr., OT (6-3, 265); Leo Dulaney, So., OT/DE (6-5, 230).
Other Key Returnees: Takeo Massey, So., QB/DB (6-3, 207); Chase Storey, So., DB (6-1, 174); Bryce Lee, So., DT (6-2, 250.
Key Newcomers: Kaymen Carroll, So., RB (5-7, 170).
Outlook: East Mecklenburg is 4-34 in the past four years combined. Coach Lennie Sanders will continue to try, as he says, to “change the culture of the program,” and has experience with 11 starters back in the lineup this season. The East Mecklenburg offense will look to sophomore quarterback Takeo Massey and senior tight end Parker Storey to lead the unit. The Eagles’ defense is led by senior linebacker Nyron Paige (48 tackles) and junior defensive back Torrence Casey (two interceptions). If the Eagles can win a few more games this season, it would be a big step for the program.
HARDING
Head Coach: Jeff Caldwell (1st year).
2021 Record: 2-8 (0-5 in the SoMeck 4A Conference).
Conference: SoMeck 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 4
Returning Lettermen: 7
Key Returning Starters: Diego Parks, Sr., QB/RB/DB (5-10, 185); Deangelo Parks, Sr., LB/DE (5-9, 210); Keyshawn Jackson, Sr., DB/WR (6-3, 170); Amore Jenkins, Jr., WR/QB/DB (5-11, 175).
Other Key Returnees: Cameron Brown, Jr., LB/TE (6-4, 220); Isaac Bowden, Sr., WR/DB (6-2, 180); Deonte Furman, Jr., DB/KR (5-9, 160).
Key Newcomers: Barak Fuller, Jr., OL/DL (6-4, 260).
Outlook: Harding has struggled in the past two years, going just 2-15. But new head coach Jeff Caldwell has a history of helping to rebuild programs (Garinger, West Mecklenburg), but will have a tough task with a roster that returns only four starters. The Rams’ offense will have to score more points (12.5 points per game last year) and will look to senior quarterback Diego Parks (930 yards passing, 346 yards rushing), all-conference receiver Keyshawn Jackson and junior receiver Amore Jenkins, to spark the unit. The Harding defense is led by Diego’s twin brother, linebacker Deangelo Parks, with Jackson and Jenkins giving the secondary experience.
HOPEWELL
Head Coach: Brandon Gentry (1st year).
2021 Record: 2-8 (1-5 in the Queen City Athletic Conference.
Conference: Queen City Athletic Conference/4A.
Returning Starters: 7
Returning Lettermen: 10
Key Returning Starters: K.C. Cunningham, Jr., CB/WR (6-1, 180); Giovanni Madden, So., DE (6-2, 220); Joseph Johnson, Jr., WR/DB (6-0, 175); Edward Johnson, Jr., QB (5-11, 190); Chris Brown, Sr., RB/DB (5-10, 190); Jayden Harris, Sr., OL/DL (6-0, 310); Ted Kinggombe, Sr., OL/DL (5-11, 285).
Other Key Returnees: Derrius Wallace, Jr., DB (6-0, 190); Dwayne Cockerham, Sr., DB (5-11, 180).
Key Newcomers: Cam Sellars, Sr., OL/DL (5-9, 275).
Outlook: New Hopewell coach Brandon Gentry has a history of turning around programs, but has his work cut out for him with a Titans’ squad with only seven starters back from a 2-8 team. Hopewell will need to put more points on the board (9.1 points per game last year) and will look to junior quarterback Edward Johnson, classmate and receiver Joseph Johnson plus senior running back Chris Brown. Meanwhile, the Titans’ defense has experience on the line with seniors Jayden Harris, Ted Kinggombe and sophomore Giovanni Madden, with junior cornerback K.C. Cunningham, also returning.
HOUGH
Head Coach: Matthew Jenkins (6th year).
2021 Record: 14-1
Conference: Queen City Athletic Conference/4A.
Returning Starters: 10
Returning Lettermen: 25
Key Returning Starters: Jack Berlin, Sr., OL (6-2, 245); Tanner, Ward, Sr., OL (6-4, 250); J.T. Smith, Sr., RB (5-11, 205); Tad Hudson, Sr., QB (6-3, 218); Se’Quan Osborne, Sr., WR (6-1, 170); Markell Quick, Sr., WR (5-11, 170); Branden Palmer, Sr., OLB/DE (6-4, 210); Anthony Walker, Jr., LB (5-11, 215); Nolan Hauser, Jr., K (5-10, 165); Garvey Sterling, Sr., LB (6-0, 210).
Other Key Returnees: Cooper McClain, Sr., OL (6-3, 240); James Nesta, Jr., OLB/DE (6-4, 205); Victor Aguilera, Sr., OLB/DE (6-3, 235); Christian Johnson, Sr., LS (5-10, 215); Jacob Dorsey, Jr., WR (5-11, 180); Kar’mel Quick, So., DB (5-9, 150); Morgan Linton, So., DB (5-11, 150); Xavier Holmes-McIntyre, Jr., DB (5-11, 180); Syir Fraser-Sutton, So., WR (5-10, 160); Sean Brady, So., WR (5-9, 160); Trey Blakeney, So., QB (6-2, 180).
Key Newcomers: Eagan Boyer, Jr., OL (6-7, 270); Akil Williams, Sr., RB (5-9, 185).
Outlook: Hough was a perfect 14-0 going into the 4A state semifinals, when their season came to a halt in 4th quarter courtesy of a comeback by rival Julius Chambers. This season, the Huskies have the pieces to make another state championship run. The Hough offense (averaged 40 points per game last year) will be potent once again with senior quarterback Tad Hudson (2,601 yards passing, 30 touchdowns), spreading the ball around to classmates like running back J.T. Smith (666 yards rushing, 13 touchdowns and 25 catches), receivers Se’Quan Osborne (454 yards receiving, seven touchdowns) and Markell Quick (799 yards receiving, 10 touchdowns). The Huskies’ defense will have to reload a bit, but has senior stars in defensive end Branden Palmer, linebacker Garvey Sterling and junior linebackers James Nesta and Anthony Walker.
INDEPENDENCE
Head Coach: Darryl McFadden, Jr., (2nd year).
2021 Record: 5-5 (3-3 in the Southwestern 4A Conference).
Conference: Southwestern 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 9
Returning Lettermen: 17
Key Returning Starters: Joshua Iseah, Sr., LB/DE/TE (6-3, 235); Khaleil Hoke, Sr., DT (6-1, 285); Joe Moraglia, Sr., WR/PR (6-1, 185); Sincere McIntyre, Sr., RB/WR/KR/PR (5-8, 175); Quentin Reddish, Jr., S (6-3, 185); Joseph Reddish, Sr., CB (6-0, 180).
Other Key Returnees: Ramion Garrett, Sr., OL (6-1, 285); Coriawn Griffin, Sr., DT/DE (6-2, 253); Austin Cowick, Sr., S/WR (5-10, 180).
Key Newcomers: Justin Little, So., QB (5-10, 175); Brian Crowder, So., WR/PR (5-7, 145); Javon Barber, So., WR (5-9, 155); Camden Martin, So., LB (5-10, 185); Jmari Parker, Jr., OL (6-4, 275); Sidiq Cabaniss-Ali, So., DT (6-1, 270).
Outlook: Independence has been up and down, going 22-31 in the past five years. But former Patriots’ quarterback, and now head coach Darryl McFadden Jr. made strides last season, leading his squad to a 5-5 record. This season, Independence’s strengths will start on defense with senior linebacker Joshua Iseah (71 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks), senior defensive tackle Khaleil Hoke (47 tackles, 11 tackles for loss), senor cornerback Joseph Reddish (four interceptions), and junior safety Quentin Reddish (48 tackles, four interceptions). The Patriots’ offense will look to senior receiver/returners Sincere McIntyre and Joe Moraglia, and sophomore quarterback Justin Little (2,200 yards, 26 touchdown passes as J.V. most valuable player last year) to lead the unit. Independence, whose most recent winning season came in 2015, has the pieces to get back above .500 and return to the playoffs.
JULIUS CHAMBERS
Head Coach: Brandon Wiggins (1st year).
2021 Record: 14-2 (6-1 in the Queen City Athletic Conference).
Conference: Queen City Athletic Conference/4A.
Returning Starters: 14 (9 offense; 5 defense).
Returning Lettermen: 35
Key Returning Starters: Kevin Concepcion, Sr., WR (6-1, 180); Jordan Thompson, Sr., LB/ATH (6-1, 195); Anshon Camp, Sr., QB/ATH (6-1, 185); Zairion Jackson-Bass, Sr., DE (6-4, 230); T.J. McGill, Sr., DB (6-0, 160) Lemott Houston, Sr., DE (6-1, 205); Armon Wright, Jr., WR (5-9, 170); Zion Booker, Sr., WR (5-11, 175); Sean Walker, Sr., WR (5-11, 165); Rondell Carter, Jr., CB (6-0, 165); Bryce Lofton, Sr., OL (6-3, 335); Isaiah Ferguson, Sr., OL (6-4, 310).
Other Key Returnees: Elijah Baskins, Jr., LB/TE (6-1, 185); Dontrae Henderson, Jr., DB (6-1, 175).
Key Newcomers: N/A.
Outlook: Julius Chambers has averaged 13 wins per season over the past six years, including two state titles (2020, Spring 2021) and two state runner-up finish last season (2019, fall 2021). New coach Brandon Wiggins comes in with championship expectations again this fall. The Cougars’ offense will to prove it can succeed without running back, Jaylan “Hollywood” Smothers (Oklahoma commit) but has plenty of weapons with seniors quarterback Anshon Camp, wide receiver Kevin Concepcion and a massive offensive line, featuring 6-3, 335-pound Bryce Lofton and 6-foot-4, 310-pound Isaiah Ferguson. The Chambers’ defense, which allowed 14.5 points per game last season, will also be stout again with senior linebacker Jordan Thompson and senior defensive linemen Lemott Houston and Zairion Jackson-Bass back.
LAKE NORMAN CHARTER
Head Coach: Bob McKay (8th year).
2021 Record: 5-4
Conference: Independent.
Returning Starters: 13
Returning Lettermen: 19
Key Returning Starters: Quincy McKay, Sr., WR/DB/LB (6-1, 175); Myles Scott, Sr., OL/DL (6-1, 270); Grayson Harvey, So., QB (6-0, 155); Clayton Adams, Jr., DE/OL (6-2, 190); Major Leak, So., WR/CB (5-7, 135); Cole Rogers, Sr., OL/DL (5-11).
Other Key Returnees: N/A.
Key Newcomers: N/A.
Outlook: After not having a varsity team in the spring of 2021, the Knights had a solid season last fall, going 5-4. This season, with 13 starters back, Lake Norman Charter has a chance to post a second straight winning season. Sophomore quarterback Grayson Harvey will look to get the ball in the hands of senior receiver/running back Quincy McKay, to lead the Knights’ offense. The Lake Norman Charter defense has seniors in Cole Rogers, Myles Scott on the line and McKay at linebacker to lead the unit.
MALLARD CREEK
Head Coach: Kennedy Tinsley (3rd year).
2021 Record: 6-5 (3-3 in the Queen City Athletic Conference).
Conference: Queen City Athletic Conference/4A.
Returning Starters: 17
Returning Lettermen: N/A.
Key Returning Starters: Darren James (D.J.) Hamilton, Sr., WR/DB (5-11, 185); Umar Rockhead, Jr., OL/DL (6-4, 240); Ishaun Abdul-Ali, Sr., DL (6-2, 250); Michael Short, Sr., LB (6-3, 235); Jaylen Bowden, Sr., WR/DB (6-2, 165); Tomar Bivens, Sr., RB (5-11, 195); Ben Black, Jr., WR/DB (5-11, 160); Marquis Harris, Sr., RB/DB (5-8, 160);
Other Key Returnees: Isaiah Mason, Sr., WR/DB (6-0, 160); Tre Robinson, Jr., QB (5-10, 165); Khalil Ali, Jr., RB (5-10, 175).
Key Newcomers: Justin Wheeler, Sr., QB (6-0, 175) (Charlotte Latin transfer); Abdul Aziz-Smith, Sr., OL (6-6, 320); Brandon Rose, So., WR/DB (5-10, 165); Caleb Knight, So., QB/WR/DB (5-11, 160).
Outlook: Mallard Creek got back on track last year with its first two playoffs wins since 2017 (beating Butler and Asheville). This year, the Mavericks believe they can challenge for the Queen City Athletic Conference title with 17 starters back in the lineup. The Mallard Creek offense is in capable hands with senior quarterback Justin Wheeler (Charlotte Latin transfer, 2,399 yards passing, 22 touchdowns last year), running back Tomar Bivens and receiver D.J. Hamilton, leading the way. The Mavericks’ defense is also a veteran group with senior linebacker, Michael Short (East Carolina commit), senior defensive lineman Ishaun Abdul-Ali, and defensive back Hamilton.
MYERS PARK
Head Coach: Jason McManus (1st year).
2021 Record: 0-12 (0-7 in the SoMeck 4A) due to forfeit of the season.
Conference: SoMeck 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 9
Returning Lettermen: 25
Key Returning Starters: Tyson Austin, Sr., DB (5-8, 181) Donyea Coleman, Sr., TE (6-4, 200); Thomas Wilson, Sr., OL (6-2, 250); Derrick McKnight, Jr. RB (5-9, 160); Davis Becker, Sr., TE (6-4, 215); Tavion Neal, Sr., WR (5-9, 160); Win Beverly, Sr,, K/P (6-3, 180); Max Schmidly, Sr., LS/DE (6-3, 185); Nick Legrande, Sr., OL (6-2, 305).
Other Key Returnees: Solomon Young, Jr., DL (6-3, 265); Tariq Monroe, Sr, OL (6-4, 370); Latrell Goodwin, Sr., RB (5-8, 185); Parks Cromwell, Jr., DB (5-11, 160); Reggie Browder, Sr., DL (5-11, 220).
Key Newcomers: Wendall Thompson, Jr., QB (6-1, 180); Jake Bell, Jr., LB (6-0, 170).
Outlook: A new era of Myers Park football begins as McManus takes over a program that was forced to forfeit its season a year ago because of ineligible players. The Mustangs will also have to reload with 31 seniors graduating from last year’s roster. The Myers Park offense will debut a new look “air raid,” passing attack that will be sure to get the ball to senior receivers, Tavion Neal, Davis Becker and Donyea Coleman. Senior running back Derrick McKnight wil also play a big role. The Mustangs’ defense will have to fill a lot of holes, but has seniors like defensive back Tyson Austin and defensive end Max Schmidly returning. Senior kicker Win Beverley and Schmidly, one of the top long snappers in the country, should also give the Mustangs an advantage in specials’ team play.
NORTH MECKLENBURG
Head Coach: Damon McKee (3rd year).
2021 Record: 6-6 (4-2 in the Queen City Athletic Conference).
Conference: Queen City Athletic Conference/4A.
Returning Starters: 8
Returning Lettermen: 20
Key Returning Starters: Demorris Jenkins, Sr., OLB (6-4, 223); Charles House, So., OL/DL (6-5, 300); Tevin Walters, Sr., OL/DL (6-2, 260); David Olasimbo, Sr., OL (6-4, 283); Isaiah Neal, Sr., OL (6-0, 251); Kyle Jenkins, Sr., OL/DL (5-10, 245).
Other Key Returnees: N/A.
Key Newcomers: N/A.
Outlook: After just two wins in 2019 and 2020 combined, North Mecklenburg took a big step forward going 6-6 last season, However, with a younger team (eight starters return) in one of the state’s toughest conference (Queen City Athletic Conference) things won’t be easy. Coach Damon McKee will rely on his offensive and defensive lines with two-way standouts like senior DeMorris Jenkins, sophomore Charles House and senior Tevin Walters to provide experience and leadership as the Vikings look to stay in the middle of the league race and in the playoff picture.
OLYMPIC
Head Coach: Brandon Thompson (4th year).
2021 Record: 6-3 (3-2 in the SoMeck 4A Conference).
Conference: SoMeck 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 8
Returning Lettermen: 24
Key Returning Starters: Eliyt Nairne, Sr., DL (6-2, 275); Elijah Holmes, Sr., QB (6-2, 210); Sterling Greene, Sr., WR (5-11, 165); Mann Corday, II, Sr., DL (6-2, 240); Khamari Lawson, Jr., OL/DL (6-3, 275); Robert Graham, Jr., DB/WR (5-10, 175); Chris Providence, Jr., DB (6-0, 160); Andrew Caudle, Jr., K (5-9, 160).
Other Key Returnees: N/A.
Key Newcomers: N/A.
Outlook: Olympic has been consistent under Thompson, going 20-9 in his three-year tenure. This season, Thompson and his team believe they can challenge for the SoMeck 4A conference title with seniors in quarterback Elijah Holmes (1,439 yards passing, 12 touchdowns) and receiver Sterling Greene (39 catches for 600 yards and five touchdowns), leading the offense. The Trojans’ defense should be stout again after allowed only 14.9 points per game last year. It’ll be led by senior defensive linemen Eliyt Nairne (7 sacks, 15 Division scholarship offers) and Mann Corda, II. Junior kicker/punter Andrew Caudle can also be a game-changer for the special teams’ unit.
PALISADES
Head Coach: Jonathan Simmons (1st year).
2021 Record: New Program.
Conference: SoMeck 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: New Program.
Returning Lettermen: New Program.
Key Players: Jarek Patulski, Jr., QB (6-1); Anthony Davis, Jr., DE (6-4); Jaylin Morris, Jr., OL/DL (6-0); Collin Howard, Jr., DB/WR (5-11); Curtis Freeman, Fr., ATH (5-11); Jayden Clyburn, Fr., ATH (5-11); Clarence Drakeford, Fr., ATH (5-10).
Outlook: Palisades will have endure the usual growing pains of a brand, new program in an established conference. But Simmons is confident his team can be competitive from the start. A win or two would be a huge step in the right for the Pumas in their first season.
PROVIDENCE
Head Coach: Weslee Ward (4th Year).
2021 Record: 6-5 (4-2 in the Southwestern 4A Conference).
Conference: Southwestern 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 13
Returning Lettermen: 22
Key Returning Starters: Luke Bailey, Sr., RB/WR/ATH (5-10, 215); Connor Drake, Sr., OL (6-6, 315); Marc Tomljonavic, Sr., OL (6-5, 320); Cash Topinka, Jr., OL (6-3, 318); Reid Herring, Sr., WR (6-1, 180); Erik Hinson, Sr., OL (6-2, 250); Gentry Otero, Sr., DL (6-0, 205); Logan McIlveen, Sr., FS (6-1, 175); Cade Kendall, Sr., QB (6-2, 215); Noah Watson, Sr., TE (6-4, 260); Anthony Tandoh, Sr., WR (5-9, 180); Tate Kendall, Sr., LS (6-2, 240).
Other Key Returnees: Josh Brooks, Sr., OLB (6-2, 208); Conner Shelton, Jr., TE (6-2, 230); Billy Wilkes, Jr., LB (6-0, 180); Chima Onukogu, Sr., OL (6-3, 270).
Key Newcomers: Evan Kakovitsas, Jr., DB/WR (5-11, 180); Evan Caldwell, Jr., LB (5-10, 190); Kaua Longaray, So., DL (6-2, 215); Carter Weinke, So., RB/OLB (5-10, 170); Palmer Stevenson, So., TE/DE (6-1, 190); Spencer Makell, Jr., CB (6-1, 170).
Outlook: Providence has been on the rise the past two years, going 13-7. This year, the Panthers believe they can challenge for the Southwestern 4A title. The Providence offense will lean on a massive offensive (average weight 290) featuring seniors Connor Drake (all-state), Erik Hinson, Marc Tomljonavic and junior Cash Topinka, which should give playmakers like running back Luke Bailey, and receivers, Reid Herring and Anthony Tandoh (both three-year starters) room to operate. The Providence defense lost nine starters but has some experience in senior defensive lineman Gentry Otero, a three-year starter, and classmate and free safety Logan McIlveen.
ROCKY RIVER
Head Coach: Tyson Fernandez (1st year as Rocky River head coach).
2021 Record: 3-7 (2-4 in the Southwestern 4A Conference).
Conference: Southwestern 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 7
Returning Lettermen: 23
Key Returning Starters: Antwione Norris, Sr., WR/FS/CB (5-10, 170); Jamarion Anderson, Sr., MLB/TE (6-2, 215); Steven Muin, Jr., OLB/WR (6-2, 205); Aden Anderson, Sr., RB/LB (5-7, 170); Rod Stafford, Jr., CB/WR/QB (5-10, 160); Trevion Graham, Sr., DE/TE/QB (6-4, 230); Myles Brown, Jr., OT/DT (6-3, 290).
Other Key Returnees: Marvin Toghe, Sr., DE/LB/TE (6-3, 230); Reid Baker, Sr., LB/TE (6-2, 200); Karon Gray, Jr., FS/RB (6-1, 175).
Key Newcomers: N/A.
Outlook: Rocky River has struggled of late with just 14 wins in the past five years. With only seven starters back and a new head coach, the Rocky River offense will lean on seniors in running back Aden Anderson, receiver Antwione Norris (25 catches for 368 yards last year) and junior quarterback Rod Stafford. The Ravens’ defense will also need to step up with linebackers in senior Jamarion Anderson (80 tackles), and junior Steven Muin leading the group.
SOUTH MECKLENBURG
Head Coach: Joe Evans (4th year).
2021 Record: 9-3 (5-1 in the SoMeck 4A Conference).
Conference: SoMeck 4A Conference.
Returning Starters: 7
Returning Lettermen: 25
Key Returning Starters: Cam Reese, Sr., QB (6-0, 180); Michael Nesbit, Sr., WR (6-4, 185); Tiquez Mallette, Sr., WR (5-10, 170); Benji Tidwell, Sr., LB/S (6-0, 190); Junior Mpiana, Sr., DE (6-3, 225); Elijah Moye, Sr., DB (6-0, 170); Alex Jones, Sr., DE (6-2, 225).
Other Key Returnees: Chris Brown, Sr., WR/DB (6-0, 180); Koen Webb, Sr., ATH (5-11, 190).
Key Newcomers: Laderian Lynch, Jr., DB/WR (6-0, 160); Zay Bolden, Jr., RB (6-1, 215); Trenton Santiago, Sr., LB (6-3, 230).
Outlook: After winning just five games combined from 2017-19, Evans’ Sabres have turned things around with 13 wins in the past two seasons, including a 9-3 record last fall. This season, the Sabres look to carry that momentum with seniors in quarterback Cam Reese and receivers Michael Nesbit and Tiquez Mallette back to lead the offense. The Sabres’ defense has experience at all three levels with seniors Alex Jones and junior Mpiana on the defensive line, Benji Tidwell at linebacker, and Elijah Moye back to lead the secondary.
WEST CHARLOTTE
Head Coach: Sam Greiner (3rd year as West Charlotte head coach).
2021 Record: 0-11 (7-4 before having to forfeit season because of an ineligible player).
Conference: Queen City Athletic Conference/3A.
Returning Starters: 9
Returning Lettermen: 22
Key Returning Starters: Darion Rivers, Sr., OT (6-7, 275); Khemaan Fleming, Sr., WR/DB (5-9, 180); Demariyon Dubose, Sr., LB (5-11, 185); Jeremiah Shipman, Sr., OG/OT (6-1, 265); J’Aden Smith, Jr., OLB/WR (6-2, 190); Maquavian Horsley, Sr., CB/FS (5-8, 165); Orlandus Reynolds, Sr., OLB (5-11, 180); J’Sean Wilson, Jr., C/DT (5-11, 240); Justin Wilson, So., G/DT (6-0, 280).
Other Key Returnees: Chris Bullard, Jr., LB/LS (5-11, 185); Jae’vian Carr, Jr., WR (5-7, 160); Richard Thomas, Sr., DB (5-9, 170).
Key Newcomers: Caleb Barringer, Sr., WR/DB (5-7, 165) (West Mecklenburg transfer); Julian Carmichael, Sr., LB (6-1, 200); Laden Ford, Sr., OLB/DE (6-2, 215).
Outlook: West Charlotte made a big move going 7-4 last season, before having to forfeit the season because of an ineligible player. This year, the Lions will lean on their offense line with four starters back, led by 6-foot-7, 275-pound N.C. State commit Darion Rivers with senior Jeremiah Simpson, junior J’Sean Wilson, and sophomore Justin Wilson. West Charlotte will also feature all-conference receiver Khemaan Fleming. The Lions’ defense is experienced with linebackers in seniors Demariyon Dubose, Orlandus Reynolds and junior J’Aden Smith back to lead the way.
WEST MECKLENBURG
Head Coach: Beady Waddell, IV (3rd year).
2021 Record: 6-5 (3-3 in the Queen City Athletic 3A/4A Conference).
Conference: Queen City Athletic Conference/3A.
Returning Starters: 15
Returning Lettermen: 24
Key Returning Starters: Neko Brown, Sr., WR/DB (6-0, 195); Beady Waddell, V, Jr., MLB/RB (6-0, 215); Omari Sanders Richardson, Sr., DB/WR (5-11, 180); Mark Foster (Jr.), So., LB/RB (5-11, 190); Kayne Lytle, Sr., DL/OL (5-10, 220); Deante Taylor, Sr., DE (6-0, 210); David Leggette (Jr.), Jr., ATH (5-11, 165); Carlton Nance, So., LB (5-11, 190); Cam Walkup, So., QB/DE.
Other Key Returnees: Isaiah McDonald, Jr. RB; Alonzo Jenkins, Sr., FB/LB/DE; DeMarcus Hill, Sr., OL/DL.
Key Newcomers: N/A.
Outlook: After winning just one game in 2020, the Hawks responded with a 6-4 season, to notch their fourth winning season in the past five years. This season, West Mecklenburg return 15 starters, which should give them a great chance to finish in the top half of the SoMeck 4A conference standings and get back in the playoff hunt. The Hawks’ defense will be their strength with linebackers in junior Beady Waddell V (103 tackles, 17 tackles for loss), sophomore Mark Foster (Jr.) joining defensive linemen Kayne Lytle (six sacks) and Deante Taylor (seven sacks), forming a strong front seven. The secondary also has experience with seniors Neko Brown (45 tackles, three tackles) and Omari Sanders Richardson (four interceptions) and David Leggette (Jr.) all back. The West Mecklenburg offense will need to score more consistently with sophomore quarterback Cam Walkup, Brown and Waddell V all play lead roles.
NOTE: Christ the King and Garinger did not turn preseason information.
Conference Predictions
Catawba Shores’ 1A/2A Conference
Community School of Davidson; 2. Mountain Island Charter; 3. Pine Lake Prep; 4. Winston-Salem Carver; 5. Bishop McGuinness; 6. Winston-Salem Prep; 7. Christ the King.
Queen City Athletic Conference 3A/4A
Julius Chambers; 2. Hough; 3. Mallard Creek; 4. North Mecklenburg; 5. West Charlotte; 6. Hopewell; 7. West Mecklenburg.
SoMeck 4A Conference
Myers Park; 2. Ardrey Kell; 3. Olympic; 4. South Mecklenburg; 5. Berry; 6. Palisades; 7. Harding
Southwestern 4A Conference
Charlotte Catholic; 2. Butler; 3. Providence; 4. Independence; 5. Rocky River; 6. East Mecklenburg; 7. Garinger.
Preseason All-County team
Preseason Offensive Player of the Year: Tad Hudson, Hough, 6-3, 218, Sr., QB.
Preseason Defensive Player of the Year: Jordan Thompson, Julius Chambers, 6-1, 195, Sr., LB.
Offense
QB: Tad Hudson, Hough, 6-3, 218, Sr.
RB: Luke Bailey, Providence, 5-10, 215, Sr.
RB: J.T. Smith, Hough, 5-11, 205, Sr.
RB: Griffin Sovine, Charlotte Catholic, 6-0, 206, Sr.
WR: Kevin Concepcion, Julius Chambers, 6-1, 180, Sr.
WR: Michael Nesbit, South Mecklenburg, 6-4, 185, Sr.
WR: Markell Quick, Hough, 5-11, 170, Sr.
TE: Jack Larson, Charlotte Catholic, 6-3, 225, Jr.
OL: Clint Barlow, Charlotte Catholic, 6-4, 315, Sr.
OL: Jack Berlin, Hough, 6-2, 245, Sr.
OL: Connor Drake, Providence, 6-6, 315, Sr.
OL: Bryce Lofton, Julius Chambers, 6-3, 335, Sr.
OL: Darion Rivers, West Charlotte, 6-7, 275, Sr.
OL: Liam Sherman, Community School of Davidson, 6-2, 275, Sr.
ATH: Anshon Camp, Julius Chambers, 6-1, 185, Sr.
ATH: Darren James Hamilton, Mallard Creek, 5-11, 185, Sr.
Defense
DL: J.J. Coleman, Butler, 6-1, 220, Sr.
DL: Khaleil Hoke, Independence, 6-1, 285, Sr.
DL: Jordan Jackson-Bass, Julius Chambers, 6-4, 230, Sr.
DL: Eliyt Nairne, Olympic, 6-2, 275, Sr.
DL/LB: Joshua Iseah, Independence, 6-3, 235, Sr.
LB: Branden Palmer, Hough, 6-4, 210, Sr.
LB: Michael Short, Mallard Creek, 6-3, 235, Sr.
LB: Jordan Thompson, Julius Chambers, 6-1, 195, Sr.
LB: Beady Waddell, West Mecklenburg, 6-0, 215, Jr.
DB: Tyson Austin, Myers Park, 5-8, 181, Sr.
DB: Neko Brown, West Mecklenburg, 6-0, 195, Sr.
DB: Keyshawn Jackson, Harding, 6-3, 170, Sr.
DB: Joshua Switzer, Ardrey Kell, 5-10, 180, Sr.
ATH: Demorris Jenkins, North Mecklenburg, 6-4, 223, Jr.
ATH: Quincy McKay, Lake Norman Charter, 6-1, 175, Sr.
Specialist
K/P: Nolan Hauser, Hough, 5-11, 165, Jr.
K/P: Win Beverly, Myers Park, 6-3, 180, Sr.
LS: Max Schmidly, Myers Park, 6-3, 185, Sr.
This story was originally published August 12, 2022 at 6:30 AM.