The Skinny
Coach Pete Fominaya takes over as the head Coach for the Hiram Hornets this season. This will be Fominaya’s first head coaching job. He inherits a Hiram team that has gone 4-6 in the last two seasons and has not been to the playoffs in eight seasons. Coach Fominaya does have some talent to work with this season. But as a first year coach, there are several challenges.
He said, “First year installing (the) offense system and defense system,” when we asked about the biggest challenge he and his staff will face this season.
As with installing anything new, there are certain to be fits and starts, but the Hornets return three players at the skill position on offense that might make that transition a little easier.
Quarterback Nathan Presnell returns for his senior season. The two-sport star had breakout seasons in both football and basketball last season and he hopes to continue the trend in 2018. Last season, Presnell passed for over 1,600 yards with 12 TDs.
Jermaine Banks returns for his junior season and projects to be one of the top receivers for the Hornets. In 2017, Banks led the team in receiving touchdowns.
Newcomer Marcuis Fulks is set to take over at running back. Fulks is a shifty back that is not afraid of contact. He could be a breakout player for Hiram.
On defense, Louisville commit, Kristian Varner will lead the defensive line. He will be aided be returners at linebacker Zach Tillman and Myles Freeman as well as defensive back, Shakari Denson.
We asked Coach Fominaya if there was any game that was circled on the schedule.
He said, “Harrison”, without hesitation.
The Hoyas will be the first game of the season. The Hornets will travel to West Cobb on 8/24 to take on a Hoya program that has been one of the more consistent teams in Cobb County in recent years.
Coach Fominaya has big plans for this team in year one. We asked him how success would de defined this season.
“Making the playoffs,” he responded.
