It came as no surprise to the Montgomery community when Montgomery Catholic emerged victorious and claimed the 4A state championship title last year. With some of their key players returning, the squad is now eyeing a repeat in 2024. On the other hand, Pike Road fell just one game short of advancing to the 6A state championship, and they are already being considered as one of the early favorites for the states this year.
Which teams, other than the local powerhouses, have the potential to replicate or significantly improve upon their performance from last year?
The 2023 season proved to be a disappointment for many Montgomery-area teams. However, there are still a handful of teams that have the potential to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. Let’s take a closer look at four teams that could surprise us all with a strong showing on the field.
Percy Julian Phoenix
Percy Julian had a tough run in the previous season, ending with a 5-5 score in the challenging Class 7A schedule. However, the school has made a significant change by appointing Kenneth White as the new head coach for the upcoming season in Class 6A. The Phoenix will now be competing in the same region as other local schools such as Pike Road, Park Crossing, Stanhope Elmore, and Wetumpka. It will be a true challenge for Coach White as he aims to guide the Percy Julian football program towards a successful season while facing stiff competition from other teams all vying for a postseason berth.
Alabama Christian Eagles
In 2023, the Eagles had a 6-5 record and were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. However, this year they will be competing in Class 3A’s region two, which includes teams from the Montgomery-area that they have previously faced. Coach Micheal Summers, who is entering his fourth season, will have the benefit of senior athlete AC Walters to lead the offense.
Park Crossing Thunderbirds
Following a disappointing 3-7 record to close out the 2023 campaign, Park Crossing made a smart move by hiring Charles Biggers as their coach. This season, the Thunderbirds are expected to undergo a transition period with the arrival of numerous new players from the baseball and basketball teams. Despite this, they will compete in the high-powered Class 6A. Interestingly, they have an open week in late September, and the final stretch of the season will see them face off against local rivals in games that could have significant playoff implications.
Wetumpka Indians
The Battle of the County 7-on-7 tournament marked the start of the Indians’ 2024 season, which they began with a bang by emerging victorious. The team displayed remarkable resilience, outplaying Holtville, Stanhope Elmore, Elmore County, and Tallassee. The talented squad has generated a lot of buzz, and fans are eagerly anticipating what Bear Woods’ third season as coach will bring. The upcoming game against Beauregard will be a crucial one, setting the tone for the rest of the Indians’ season.
