News Summary
Collins High School has appointed Randy Craft as the new head football coach for the Tigers, aiming to improve player performance and team discipline. Craft, previously a defensive coordinator, is expected to enhance leadership among players, particularly focusing on senior athlete TJ Barnes. The team looks forward to a transformative season as they set goals for success in their region. Anticipation builds within the community as preparations commence for their upcoming season opener.
Collins, Mississippi – Collins High School has officially appointed Randy Craft as its new head football coach, marking a significant change in the direction of the Tigers’ football program. Craft, who served as the defensive coordinator at Hattiesburg High School last season, is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the team and improve their overall performance, particularly in terms of fundamentals and discipline.
Craft has a solid coaching background, having learned under the guidance of Tony Vance, the most successful coach in the history of Hattiesburg High. His experience in this role has prepared him for the challenges that come with leading the Tigers. Players and staff have high expectations for Craft’s impact, especially in enhancing the leadership within the team.
Senior player Chikezie McLaurin has expressed confidence in Craft’s abilities, believing that the new coach’s focus on improving the team’s core skills will yield positive results. Under Craft’s leadership, the Tigers will prioritize player development and accountability, with a particular emphasis on the role of team leaders.
One of the key players identified for leadership is TJ Barnes, who had an impressive season in 2024, amassing over 700 total yards and scoring eight rushing touchdowns. Barnes is noted for his vocal presence among teammates and has significant playing experience from the previous season. Craft aims to enhance Barnes’s explosiveness and overall skill set, which is crucial for the team’s success on the field.
The mindset within the team has shifted as they adapt to the new expectations set forth by Craft. Known for his enthusiasm and focus on hard work, Craft appreciates the energy and willingness to improve that he has observed from the players. This alignment with the new coaching philosophy marks the beginning of a transformative period for Collins football.
Looking ahead, Collins High School football’s primary goals for the upcoming season are to see weekly improvements and finish in the top two of their region, which would allow them to host a playoff game. Winning the region championship is also a significant target for the Tigers, and Craft is committed to guiding the team toward this achievement.
The excitement is palpable as preparations ramp up for the 2025 football season, which kicks off on Friday, August 29, at 7 p.m. against Sumrall High School. The Collins community is hopeful that the combination of Craft’s coaching expertise and the players’ dedication will lead to a successful and rewarding season.
The appointment of Randy Craft as head coach at Collins High School signals a new era for the Tigers, with a strong focus on discipline, leadership, and competitive play. As the season approaches, anticipation grows around the team’s potential for success and the implementation of Craft’s coaching strategies.
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- 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
