By Chris Parker
East Newton enters the second season of coach Tom Ellis’ second stint as head coach coming off an 0-10 season.
The Patriots will look to stack some wins this season, as they have become more familiar with the expectations of Ellis.
“The players understand the expectations. We are striving to get better every day,” Ellis said.
Six offensive starters return.
Will Eichelberger will handle the quarterback duties for the Patriots.
A combination of Braxton Wolfe, Aiden Engle, Tanner Woods, Jesson Morales and River Enlow will join him in the backfield at running back.
Wolfe will also see time at receiver with Cayden Larson and Caden Youngblood. The tight ends will be Noah Hood and Eden Enlow.
Up front on the offensive line will be Will Earl, Alan McFarland, Haze Hagedon, Aiden Hood and Darryan Moore. Hagedon will be relied on for leadership as a two-year starter at center.
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Six defensive starters return as well.
The defensive line will have a similar feel to the offensive line with Earl, Hagedon, Aiden Hood and Moore going both ways.
The linebacking corps will feature McFarland, Engle, Enlow and Noah Hood. McFarland will be a leader of the defense after starting after starting as a freshman.
River Enlow, Wolfe, Larsen and Youngblood will be in the secondary.
East Newton will host Diamond, Miller and El Dorado Springs for a jamboree on Aug. 18. The Patriots open the regular season on Aug. 25 at home against Rogersville.
“We have to continue to grow as a program getting better every day and strive to compete in a very tough conference,” Ellis said.
