By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – As the Chatham Central High School football team gears up for the upcoming season, head coach Derrin Little expresses optimism about the team’s development during the offseason. With increased participation, improved player performance, and a new conference structure, Little believes this could be a pivotal year for his program. In an exclusive interview, he discusses the strides made by key players, the coaching staff’s evolution, and the overall energy surrounding the team.
The Offseason: A Time for Growth
In the world of high school football, the offseason is often a critical period for development, and for Chatham Central, this year’s offseason has been particularly fruitful. Coach Derrin Little, now in his third year at the helm, has witnessed significant improvement among his players. “This is definitely the best off-season we’ve had since I’ve been here,” Little stated, highlighting the growth from the team’s early struggles to its current state of readiness.
With a consistent turnout of around 18 players at practices, the team has been able to split sessions and focus on specialized training. This depth marks a stark contrast to Little’s first year when only eight players were participating. “Having that depth is definitely going to help us,” he emphasized, noting the importance of having two deep rosters across all positions, particularly in the offensive and defensive lines.
Key Players to Watch
Coach Little highlighted several key players who are expected to make an impact this season. Among them are the four players he brought along with him to the Chatham County high school football media event on Saturday morning:
- Brooks Albright: The starting quarterback, Albright has shown remarkable growth in strength and understanding of the game. After stepping in last season due to an injury to the previous quarterback, he gained valuable experience that he is now building upon. His leadership and decision-making skills, honed on the basketball court, are expected to benefit the team significantly. “His strength has improved tremendously, and his understanding of the game has deepened,” Little remarked
- Nick Glover: A versatile athlete, Glover will play multiple positions, including running back and wide receiver. His ability to contribute in various roles will be crucial for the team’s offensive strategy. Glover’s versatility will allow the coaching staff to exploit matchups more effectively.
- Sayvion Burnette: As a starter at both defensive back and receiver, Burnette’s growth from a freshman who played primarily special teams to a key player in both offense and defense is a testament to his dedication and development.
- Bryson Austin: Expected to lead the team in tackles, Austin’s consistency and ability to contribute on both sides of the ball make him a reliable and invaluable asset.
Coaching Staff Enhancements
The coaching staff has also seen changes that are expected to enhance the team’s performance. Little has brought in two defensive coordinators, Trayvon Tap and Dwayne Bland, who both bring valuable experience from their time at Lenoir-Rhyne University. “They are really good teachers,” Little said, praising their ability to translate complex concepts into understandable strategies for the players.
The addition of former athletic director Tommy Peele to the coaching staff has also injected a wealth of experience into the program. “He’s probably forgotten more football than all of us have learned so far,” Little quipped, underscoring the benefit of having Peele’s insights and guidance.
The Road Ahead: New Conference and Goals
With the new conference alignment, Chatham Central faces a different set of challenges and opportunities this season. The team is now competing in a more favorable schedule that allows them to earn their place in the playoffs. “We’re focused on us,” Little stated, emphasizing the importance of internal improvement over external competition. The goal is to build a positive momentum, which he believes is essential for success.
The coach is keenly aware of the hurdles that lie ahead, particularly with the need for consistency in performance. “We just got to finish,” he said, referring to the close games they have experienced in the past. Little is optimistic that the lessons learned from previous seasons will pay off as the team seeks to establish itself in the new conference.
Player Highlights and Expectations
As the season approaches, several players are poised to make significant contributions. Little highlighted Bryson Austin as the leading tackler returning from last year, while Sayvion Burnette has shown remarkable growth after transitioning from special teams to a more prominent role on defense. “We’re looking to see him make those plays,” Little remarked about Burnette’s development.
Additionally, players like Gavin Williams, who returns from injury, and newcomers like Sailor Mitchell, who is expected to shore up the center position, are generating excitement within the coaching staff. “We’re excited to see Tyler translate some of that speed from track onto the football field,” Little added, indicating the potential for explosive plays this season.
A Fresh Start: New Uniforms and Energy
The team is not only experiencing growth on the field but also a transformation in its overall image. New uniforms and a fresh paint job for the locker room symbolize a new beginning for Chatham Central football. “Out with the old, in with the new,” Little said, reflecting on the changes that aim to foster a renewed sense of pride and purpose within the program.
The Jamboree: A Test of Execution
As the team prepares for the upcoming Jack Shaner Football Jamboree at Northwood, expectations are focused on execution rather than competition. “We just want to execute,” Little stated, emphasizing the importance of establishing their game plan and ensuring that players are in the right positions. The jamboree serves as an opportunity for the team to showcase their off-season development and build confidence heading into the regular season.
A Season of Promise
With a combination of experienced coaching, a talented roster, and a favorable schedule, Coach Derrin Little believes this could be the year the Chatham Central football team takes a significant step forward. “We love where we are right now, but we’re not content,” he concluded, highlighting the ongoing journey of growth and improvement that lies ahead this coming football season.