The Skinny
Shaun Conley begins his third season as the head coach of the Chestatee War Eagles. Last season, the War Eagles missed out on the playoffs. Their region was a grinder in 2017, as it included the two teams that played for the state title in Class 4A. As if that wasn’t challenging enough, in 2018 Flowery Branch was dropped down from 5A and Denmark in Forsyth County came online and will be playing in the region this season.
We asked coach Conley what would be his staff’s biggest challenge in 2018.
“Replacing a group of seniors who have been 3 year starters,” he said.
However, there is a good amount of young talent waiting in the wings for the War Eagles.
On offense Christian Charles will return at quarterback. Last season, Charles split time with Storm Yarbrough, but Charles will take the reins, as Yarbrough has graduated. Charles threw for almost 500 yards and 3 TDs last season, while rushing for almost 400 yards. For his efforts, Charles was tabbed as an All-Region Honorable Mention selection.
The War Eagles return three experienced offensive linemen in Josh Hamilton, Eduardo Jordan, and Jesus Aguillares. Hamilton was a First Team All-Region selection while Aguillares was selected as All-Region Honorable Mention. Wide receiver Seth Pressley could quickly become one of Charles’ “go to guys” at receiver.
Coach Conley’s defense lost its top seven tacklers to graduation. The War Eagles will look for production from linebackers Robbie James (41 tackles), MJ Jarrard (20 tackles) and Hunter Chambers (34 tackles). David Woodward will be a leader on the defensive line for Chestatee. The great news for the War Eagles, is that all four of these young men are just juniors this season.
We asked Coach Conley if there were any games on the scheduled that were circled for his team.
“None in particular,” he said, “the next one is always circled.”
How will the War Eagles define success this season?
“…we strive to compete in every situation we are in – we want to give maximum effort and play together,” Conley said.
