By Chris Parker
Central football finished 2-8 last season. The Bulldogs will look to improve that win total this season with 13 total starters returning.
“We have plenty of experienced players back in ’24,” Central head coach Shem Johnson said. “We will rely on the guys that have been a part of the system the last few years. They know and understand the expectations we have set and have been working hard to rise and surpass them.”
Trevor Wilson (OT/DE) and Rowen Hart (HB/DE) are the top returning players. Both were named First-Team All-Missouri Independent.
Wilson will look to be a game-wrecker from his defensive end spot.
“Trevor will be the dominant force of our team,” Johnson said. “He will be one most offensive coordinators will lose sleep over. He will be hard to stop and defend against. Will be in the top tier of defensive players to look for this season.”
Hart will be a two-way key for Central.
“Rowen will be another inspiration to our program,” Johnson said. “He is a force both sides of the ball. Tough match up for anyone trying to stop him.”
Devontre Vaughn (FS/SB) and Lucas Ryan (WR/S) are two more returning starters Johnson highlighted as key players.
“Tre is a spark in our secondary. He can cover over the top, match up man and when need be will come up on the run as a hit stick,” Johnson said. “Lucas will be a dangerous threat at extending defenses secondaries. He’s put on size and strength. Add that with having no fear and the ability to go get a ball, we hope he will be a problem to scheme for.”
Jalen Miller (G/N) rounds out the returning starters. Noah Phelps (HB/LB), Rashad Smith (G/DE/DT), Lucas Phelps (P/K) and Josh Jensen (QB) are all returning lettermen.
“All five athletes played significant roles in ’23 and will be called upon to step up even more in ’24,” Johnson said. “We are excited to see the levels of growth they will help the Bulldogs achieve this next season.”
Rocklend Jenkins (HB/LB) also earned a letter last season.
Central will travel to Hillcrest for a jamboree with Rogersville, Fair Grove and host Hornets on Aug. 23. The Bulldogs will host Hillcrest on Aug. 30 for the opening game of the season.
“G.R.I.T. (GREATNESS RESIDES IN TOUGHNESS) is our team philosophy,” Johnson said. “As long as we come out with both a strong mentality and focus to do things right in all phases of the game, this will ultimately lead us in the direction of fulfilling our philosophy and being successful in ’24.”
