News Summary
Randy Craft has been appointed as the head football coach for Collins High School as the Tigers gear up for the upcoming season. Previously the defensive coordinator at Hattiesburg High, Craft aims to enhance the team’s performance with a focus on fundamentals and leadership. Senior player TJ Barnes highlights the importance of team leadership and improvement. Collins High’s ambitions include finishing in the top two of their region standings and competing for a championship title in the upcoming season.
Collins, Mississippi – August 20, 2024
Collins High School has appointed Randy Craft as the new head football coach for the upcoming 2025 season. The announcement marks a significant change in coaching leadership as the Tigers prepare for their first game against Sumrall High School on August 29 at 7 p.m.
Key Details of the Hiring
Craft’s appointment comes after a season where he served as the defensive coordinator at Hattiesburg High School. His previous experience includes working under Tony Vance, the school’s former head coach who is recognized as the winningest coach in Hattiesburg High’s history. Craft’s background provides him with valuable coaching insights, particularly on leadership and defense, which he plans to bring to Collins High School.
Senior team member Chikezie McLaurin expressed confidence in Craft’s ability to enhance the team’s fundamentals, discipline, and overall performance. The coaching change signals a renewed focus on technical improvement and leadership development within the team.
Team Leadership and Player Development
Under Craft’s leadership, player leadership is expected to play a more prominent role. TJ Barnes, a key player for the Tigers, is identified as a significant team leader. Barnes finished the 2024 season with over 700 total yards and scored eight rushing touchdowns. Craft has expressed intentions to improve Barnes’s skill set by focusing on increasing his explosiveness, which could make him a more formidable offensive threat.
Barnes is known for being vocal among teammates and has considerable playing experience from the previous season, which will be vital in the team’s upcoming efforts. His leadership qualities combined with targeted training time are viewed as essential for the team’s goals.
Team Goals and Expectations
Craft has set clear goals for the team, emphasizing weekly improvement and the aspiration to finish in the top two of their region standings. Achieving this would enable the Tigers to host a playoff game, increasing their chances of competing for the regional championship.
The coaching staff’s overarching objective is for the team to progress steadily throughout the season and, if all goes according to plan, claim the region championship. The focus remains on fostering a disciplined, energetic team capable of competing at higher levels.
Season Schedule and Outlook
The 2025 football season at Collins High School is scheduled to kick off on Friday, August 29, at 7 p.m. with the game against Sumrall High School. This opening game will set the tone for the season, with expectations to build on the team’s new leadership dynamic and strategic improvements.
Background and Coaching Philosophy
Randy Craft’s coaching philosophy reflects his recent experiences working closely with Tony Vance at Hattiesburg High School. His focus on defensive strategies and leadership development aims to create a more disciplined, cohesive team. Craft’s approach emphasizes continuous improvement, player accountability, and fostering leadership among players to elevate the team’s competitive standing.
As the Tigers prepare for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on how quickly the team adapts to the new coaching regime and whether their goals for regional success and playoff appearances can be realized.
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Additional Resources
- Gamecocks Online: Geoff Collins Joins Gamecock Football Coaching Staff
- Wikipedia: South Carolina Gamecocks Football
- AJC: Former Georgia Tech Football Coach Joins Staff at South Carolina
- Google Search: Geoff Collins
- Football Scoop: Geoff Collins at South Carolina
- Google Scholar: South Carolina Football
- On3: Shane Beamer Explains Decision to Add Geoff Collins
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Geoff Collins
- 247Sports: South Carolina Gamecocks Football – Geoff Collins
- Google News: South Carolina Football
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