Entering A New Era: Football at Oak Hill Academy
WEST POINT, Miss.
After a challenging 3-8 season last year, Oak Hill Academy football team is making a fresh start this summer with new head coach, Tom Goode. Known for his strict training plans and emphasis on both physical and mental toughness, Goode is all set to lead a crucial turnaround for Oak Hill.
“Along with getting in shape comes mental toughness as well and that’s what we are working on and they are stepping up to the challenge,” said Goode.
Emphasis on Little Things
In contrast to last year, this season the team is putting significant stress on preparation and focus. The players aim to be ready for any situation that may come their way on the playing field.
“Last year there wasn’t much preparation, this year it’s a main focus,” noted senior running back, Hazard Zepponi. “It’s been a pretty good change.”
The initial six weeks of summer workouts have been strictly dedicated to conditioning. The hard grind of the strenuous practices seems to be having a positive effect on team bonding, making this season starkly different from 2023.
Senior Players Rising to the Occasion
Although there are only six seniors on the team of 30 players, each has demonstrated remarkable leadership skills during the off-season.
“You couldn’t ask for six better young men and they have really stepped up in their leadership,” Goode positively commented.
Aiming High
The Raiders have big aspirations for this season – they dream of competing for a state title. To accomplish their goal, every player on the team recognizes that they will have to make a significant impact, fully embodying the team spirit.
“Everybody is going to push everybody, we’re all going to work as a group,” said the confident senior lineman, Chip Ballard. “We got some new kids but we have all bonded together.”
Oak Hill Academy is scheduled to kick off its season in just over a month on August 23rd at home against Central Holmes Christian.
