The Skinny
The Lee County Trojans claimed their first state title with a win over region rival Coffee. Gone are the likes of AAAAAA defensive player of the year, Otis Reese, fellow first teamers Ty Terrell (wide receiver), Griffen McDowell (offensive line) as well as other all-state selections Quin Geer (Linebacker), TJ Harris (Defensive Back) and Jase Orndorff (Quarterback). We asked coach Fabrizio what would be the biggest challenge going into this season.
“We have to realize that this is a new season. Last season’s state championship is over. With all the accolades and celebrations this off-season we have to refocus on this season.”, he said.
The Trojans will look to junior quarterback Kyle Toole to take over this season. Toole will have help from running back Shandarious Kimbrough and receivers Chauncey Magwood and Artavious Warren. Daveon Sanders is another player poised to have some opportunities to help the offense. Upfront, Griffin Carder, who was a second team all-state selection and a Georgia Southern commit, will anchor the offensive line for the Trojans.
There is no doubt, replacing a player like Reese on defense will be challenging, but the Trojans do return defensive backs Tay Mayo and DaShawn King. Upfront, defensive lineman Anthony Harvey returns for his senior season. While not a defensive player, kicker Austin Beaver, a first team all-state selection as a sophomore last season will certainly be a weapon that the Trojans can use to flip field position and put points on the board.
Coach Fabrizio said that the games that are most important are the region games. We completely understand that, as these are the games that determine if you get to the second season. While outsiders might be thinking the goal for Lee County is to get back to the state title game, Coach Fabrizio likes to keep it simple,
“We have the same goals as every year. Want to win as many games as we are capable of,” said Fabrizio.
