Wilcox Academy begins march for football championship with win over Southern Academy

The AISA Class AA Region 2 Wilcox Academy Wildcats went on the road Friday night to begin their march for an AISA state football championship ring in 2025 and defeated new Class AAA member Southern Academy 21-6.

The Class AAA group now includes Lowndes Academy and Southern Academy, two schools traditionally classified in the lower divisions.

Under head football coach Lebo Jones, the Wildcats ended the 2024 football season with a 7-4 overall record. They were 3-2 in the region and reached the playoffs as a three-seed. However, Wilcox Academy was eliminated in the semi-finals by South Choctaw Academy. 

Under Jones, the Wildcats finished the 2023 regular season 8-3 overall, 4-0 in regional play and as AISA Class A Region 2 Champs for their first regional championship in 20 years. However, Lowndes Academy beat the Wildcats 20-7 to claim the AISA Class A State Football Championship.

In Friday night’s game, the Wildcats’ Julian Curry rushed for 215 yards on 15 carries and three touchdowns.

Marvin Moultry rushed for 40 yards on seven carries; Harrison Travis ran in a 2-point conversion; and J.J. Sessions kicked an extra point.

Jim Vick led the Wildcats’ defense with 19 tackles. Lee Hollinger had 14 tackles, and Steele Swanner added 13 tackles.

Following Friday’s win, Jones said, “The boys played hard tonight.” He said he was pleased from an effort standpoint and that his team played well on defense.

Jones said, “We played better on offense in the second half. Overall, it was a good season opening win.”

 Wilcox will play Fort Dale Academy on Friday night in Camden.