August 29, 2024
Before players take the field and cheerleaders strut their stuff, a sure indication that high school football season is here, is Media Day. Surrounded by team captains and players wearing their school's jersey, all six Jackson Public School high school coaches came together for the 2024 Football Media Day on August 16.
One-by-one, each coach highlighted their school's program, shared summer practice goals and expectations for the upcoming season. Though you could hear a pin drop at times, you could still feel the anticipation of a fresh start to a new season.
"The goal is to win a state championship, but also to help build our young men to get them prepared for a future outside of high school," said Callaway High football coach Dameon Brown.
"Everything we do is about learning and accountability," said Murrah High coach Marcus Gibson.
JPS is also looking forward to building on the momentum that coaches and student-athletes set during the 2023-24 season, with Murrah High School setting a school record of seven wins as well as Provine, Callaway, Forest Hill, and Lanier High Schools all looking to return to the playoffs.
"Keep climbing. Consistency is the key," said Forest Hill High football coach Tony Fell.
"Discipline, accountability and respect...to play the game the right way," is his focus, added Lanier High football coach Tommy Kelly. The first-year coach played 11 years in the NFL.
Media outlets asked the coaches about their strategies going into the new season and how they hope to work together to bring home victories. Provine High coach Tim Wilson stressed that it is a team effort, recognizing all his assistant coaches.
Jim Hill coach Jermaine Bryant, has had an influx of players from Wingfield High, which closed at the end of last school year. However, his mindset is that his team will "break barriers and make history."
Each team has been working over the summer to prepare for the new season and coaches say they're ready to compete on the field each week. The first game is August 29, 2024, with the state championships wrapping up by December 7, 2024.
See the full 2024 High School Football Schedule.
More Coverage:
