News Summary
Collins High School has appointed Randy Craft as the new head football coach. Previously the defensive coordinator at Hattiesburg, Craft aims to enhance team fundamentals and discipline. Senior player Chikezie McLaurin and other leaders look forward to the upcoming season and implementing Craft’s strategies. The Tigers are focused on improving performance and securing playoff opportunities as they kickoff against Sumrall High School soon.
Collins, Mississippi – Collins High School has appointed Randy Craft as the new head football coach, marking a significant step towards the revitalization of the school’s football program. Craft, who previously served as the defensive coordinator at Hattiesburg High School, assumes the role as the Tigers prepare for their upcoming season.
Senior player Chikezie McLaurin expressed strong confidence in Craft’s capability to enhance the team’s fundamentals and discipline. As the new head coach, Craft aims to instill a culture of excellence and responsibility, leveraging his past experience to foster leadership within the team.
Craft gained valuable coaching insights while working under Tony Vance, the former head coach at Hattiesburg High School, who is recognized as the most successful coach in the school’s history. This foundation is expected to guide Craft in effectively addressing the challenges at Collins and improving overall team performance.
Player leadership will play a crucial role as the Tigers transition under Craft’s guidance. TJ Barnes, a prominent player who concluded the previous season with more than 700 total yards and eight rushing touchdowns, has been identified as a key leader. Craft is focused on further developing Barnes’s skills, particularly by enhancing his explosiveness on the field, which could significantly impact the team’s offensive capabilities.
As the team aligns itself with the new expectations established by Craft, he has noted the energy and readiness for transformation displayed by the players. The primary objectives for the Tigers under Craft’s leadership are to steadily improve, secure a top-two finish in their region, and succeed in hosting a playoff game. Should the team meet these performance goals, they aim ultimately to capture the region championship.
The Collins High School football team will kick off the 2025 season on Friday, August 29, at 7 p.m. against Sumrall High School. The matchup marks an important beginning as the team seeks to implement Craft’s strategies and adapt to the expectations set for the season. With renewed motivation and a clear focus, Collins High School football is poised for a promising year ahead.
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Additional Resources
- Gamecocks Online: Geoff Collins Joins Gamecock Football Coaching Staff
- Wikipedia: South Carolina Gamecocks Football
- AJC: Former Georgia Tech Football Coach Joins Staff at South Carolina
- Google Search: Geoff Collins
- Football Scoop: Geoff Collins at South Carolina
- Google Scholar: South Carolina Football
- On3: Shane Beamer Explains Decision to Add Geoff Collins
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Geoff Collins
- 247Sports: South Carolina Gamecocks Football – Geoff Collins
- Google News: South Carolina Football
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