Inheriting a team that went 3-8 the previous season and winless in their district is not the most favorable position for a new head coach. It would likely be even more unfavorable for someone’s first head coaching job.

But, it is exactly where new Wesson head coach Jeremy Loy finds himself.

Loy enters the position with 14 years of coaching experience under his belt, with time spent as an offensive coordinator at Brookhaven High and as the head baseball coach at Franklin County.

Loy said he decided to leave baseball alone and focus on one thing. Despite what Wesson’s record may indicate, he also said he believes there could be potential for the Cobras to be special.

“There were good things being done there already,” the new head coach said. “Football is important here, there is a good foundation.”

Loy said his team has shown good initiative so far, working hard and showing good attendance numbers at summer workouts. He hopes to bring enthusiasm and energy to a program that may be in great need of both.

“I love this game and I want my kids to compete for everything they get. I also hope to instill things in them that can take them through life,” he said.

Loy plans to use a spread offense and an odd front defense this year at Wesson.

On offense, his spread attack will be led by senior quarterback Peyton Burns, who returns after throwing for 254 yards and two touchdowns last season.

The Cobras running game will feature a trio of capable backs. Jermaine James (207 yards, three touchdowns) had the highest output of the group last year and will likely be looked to for leadership.

The bunch is rounded out by the freshman duo of Tre Glasper and the speedy Dale Thigpen. Thigpen posted one of the fastest times in the state in the 100-meter dash last year and will make a fine change of pace back for the Cobras.

James and Thigpen are likely to see reps at the receiver position as well.

The Cobras graduated a decent number of starters on defense last season, but a seasoned, solid defensive lineman still remains in Bobby Pritchard (41 tackles, six sacks).

Folks in the area have raved about Pritchard’s ability to make turnovers and his nose for the football. He will have fellow senior lineman Matthew Craft at his side to help him wreak havoc in the trenches.

With a team of around 40-45 players and the majority of them being sophomores, Loy knows the task ahead will not be easy. Playing in a district with the likes of Hazlehurst and Franklin County will make it no easier, but the new coach is up for the task.

“We have a younger football team, but the guys on it have a lot of ability,” he said. “We hope those young guys can get some experience and learn from their mistakes.”
Wesson will square off against McLaurin on Aug. 19 for their first game of the season.