HSFT Stop #23: East Webster Braces for the Upcoming Football Season
In Maben, Mississippi, the East Webster Wolverines are gearing up for a promising new football season. After proving their mettle by winning ten games in their maiden season at the Class 3A level, the Wolverines are ready to overcome more challenges this year. Their impressive show last season has drawn attention nationwide, and now the pressure is on them to replicate the same success.
Thriving Under Pressure
Despite the stress that comes with heightened expectations, the Wolverines’ head coach, Ron Price, is confident in his team’s abilities. In reflecting on the team’s performance over the past year, he expressed immense satisfaction. He said, “I couldn’t have asked anything more out of the 2023 football team. I was really proud of our football program.”
The team now faces another daunting task ahead: progressing beyond the third round of playoffs. In the last four seasons, East Webster’s campaign ended in the third round thrice. Addressing their next objective, Coach Price expressed, “We want to take the next step and get to the north half championship — to compete for a state championship.”
Inspired by the sheer resilience of the players, the team slogan for this season is – “Something to prove”. As expressed by senior player, Zwondrikus Coleman, “A lot of people didn’t believe in us. This year, we’ve still got something to prove.”
Preparing for New Challenges
While the team retains a solid core of seasoned players, they will face the difficulty of filling positions left vacant by key players, namely their quarterback, Kaleb Warnock. The mantle of quarterback will now be handled by junior Cooper Stidham. Price is optimistic about Cooper’s potential, stating, “It’s Cooper’s turn now. It’s the next man up mentality. He’s done everything we’ve asked him to do.”
Although Stidham did not have prior experience playing as a quarterback until last season, he learned under the watchful eyes of Warnock and is ready to prove his worth. Reflecting on his learning journey, he shared, “I had a good guy in front of me. I just plan on taking on that role and doing what I’ve got to do to win.”
Ahead of the Game
The East Webster Wolverines will kick off their season with a home game against Eupora on August 30. Fans and supporters are undoubtedly eager to see this ambitious team in action. Considering their winning attitude and relentless focus, the Wolverines are predicted to have a thrilling season ahead.
