The Skinny
Coach Gene Cathcart begins his 3rd season as head coach for the Jefferson Dragons. Coach Cathcart has had success in his previous stops during his career and has had the Dragons in the playoffs in his first two seasons. We asked Coach Cathcart the biggest challenge he and his staff face coming into 2019.
“The biggest challenge for the upcoming season will be finding the proper roles for a number of talented players who could contribute to the team. The pieces are all there; it’s just a matter of putting all the pieces together,” Cathcart said.
Some of the talent that Coach Cathcart eluded to includes quarterbacks Colby Clark and Carter Stephenson. Stephenson was an All-Region selection last season for the Dragons. Fullbacks Kade McNally and Paxton Corkery return for the Dragons . Corkery was an All-Region selection as well. He averaged 5.7yards per carry.
Donsha Gaither will also line up in the backfield for the Dragons. Gaither was second only to Colby Clark in rushing yards in 2018 with 515 and 7-TDs. Mason Ware (2018 All-Region selection) and Hurst Young will anchor the Dragons offensive line.
On defense, Corkery, McNally, and Clark will play both ways for the Dragons at linebacker, but it was Rem Maxwell who garnered All-Region honors at the position in 2018. Nick Evans returns in the secondary for the Dragons.
We asked Coach Cathcart if there were any games on the schedule that are circled this season.
Cathcart said, “Some big games for Jefferson this season are at defending region champion Monroe Area and at region rival Hart County. We also start the season by hosting local rival Oconee County. “
So, how will the Dragons define success this season?
Cathcart said, “Success for Jefferson this season will be judged for continuously improving throughout the season and being in a position to compete for a region championship.”
