Wilcox Central High School’s new head football coach Brandon Cheatham is optimistic about the team’s 2023 season as their opening game approaches.
In an interview with the Black Belt News Network, Cheatham said they are bringing back 11 seniors this year to anchor the team with experience as they take on a tough 10-game schedule.
“It’s a gauntlet of a schedule,” he said during Black Belt Media Day at Wallace Community College on Aug. 10. “It won’t be an easy task, but our guys are up for the challenge.”
Wilcox Central struggled last year with a 1-9 record, and Cheatham says winning the first game is a top goal for the team. Wilcox Central’s first game is away on Aug. 25 against McKenzie High School.
Cheatham, who started as head coach in March, hopes to get the team to regionals and playoffs this season.
As a former football player himself as a star running back at Greenville High School and Faulkner University, Cheatham is sharing his experience with the Wilcox players as they prepare. He recalls playing a great Wilcox Central team every year as major rivals.
Cheatham’s coaching philosophy is “Tough times don’t last. Tough people do,” which is a motto he has tattooed on his chest.
He says it is a good mantra for football and life.
The team will start the year with new uniforms and helmets that they will be unveiling soon.
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