The Montgomery community wasn’t taken aback by Montgomery Catholic’s victory in the 4A state championship last year, and with some essential players returning, the team is gearing up to repeat its success in 2024. On the other hand, Pike Road was only one game away from making it to the 6A state championship and is already considered to be a top contender for the title this year.
Which teams from last year have the potential to replicate their success or make significant improvements?
The 2023 season was a disappointment for several Montgomery-area teams. However, there are still four teams who could potentially turn things around and make a significant impact.
Percy Julian Phoenix
The Percy Julian football team had a challenging 5-5 record in the previous season, competing against tough Class 7A opponents. However, the school has now moved to Class 6A and has enlisted Kenneth White as the new head coach. The Phoenix will be facing off against neighboring schools such as Pike Road, Park Crossing, Stanhope Elmore, and Wetumpka in the same region. As all teams strive for a spot in the postseason, this upcoming season will serve as a real trial for coach White’s leadership and the Percy Julian football program.
Alabama Christian Eagles
In 2023, the Eagles concluded their season with a 6-5 record and were eliminated in the opening round of the playoffs. The team will now transition from region three to region two in Class 3A, where they will encounter opponents that they are familiar with from the Montgomery-area. Coach Micheal Summers will be entering his fourth season and will be relying on senior athlete AC Walters to spearhead the offense.
Park Crossing Thunderbirds
Charles Biggers was hired as the coach of Park Crossing after a lackluster 3-7 season in 2023. This year, the Thunderbirds will have to navigate a transition period as they welcome many new players from the baseball and basketball teams. Competing in a tough Class 6A, the team will face local rivals with significant playoff implications in the final stretch of the season, following an open week in late September.
Wetumpka Indians
The Battle of the County 7-on-7 tournament marked the beginning of the 2024 season for the Indians, and they emerged victorious. Holtville, Stanhope Elmore, Elmore County, and Tallassee were no match for the talented squad. As the team heads into its third season under Coach Bear Woods, the anticipation and excitement among fans are palpable. The upcoming game against Beauregard will be a crucial one, setting the tone for the rest of the year.
In 2024, four high school football teams from the Montgomery area are gearing up for some major turnarounds. This news was originally reported by Montgomery Advertiser, and it’s exciting to see these teams getting ready to make some changes. From Wetumpka to Alabama Christian, these teams are determined to improve their game and come out on top.
