Clarke Central High School varsity football quarterback Kameron Lawrence, a junior, drops back to pass the ball during the Gladiators’ game against Jackson County High School on Sept. 19 in Billy Henderson Stadium. CCHS varsity football linebacker Jamarion Herring, a senior, emphasized the team’s perseverance despite recent losses. “I feel good about (the upcoming game). I know we are prepared to take on any challenges because of the coaches we have,” Herring said. “The team’s energy has been positive all year even with losses. This team has fought (with) grit, (and) we will not stop fighting.” Photo by Iliana Tejada
The CCHS varsity football team will face Alcovy High School at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 in AHS’ Homer Sharp Stadium, looking to rebuild after facing adversity.
As the Clarke Central High School varsity football team prepares to take on the Alcovy High School Tigers at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 in AHS’ Homer Sharp Stadium, the Gladiators are not just preparing for another Region 8-AAAAA game, but learning how to adapt.
The 2025-26 season has tested the Gladiators. After opening with two losses in region play, senior defensive players Anthony Lonon Jr., Barry Jones and Dream Freeman have all suffered season-ending knee injuries, leaving gaps in the team.
“We’re in the middle of trying to get adjusted and get through all these injuries. (It’s likely that) our top three senior defensive players are out, so we’re trying to worry about making sure we can stay competitive and keep executing at a higher level, and get in (the) playoffs,” Perno said.
“You guys should expect the Glads to come out firing, trying to put the game away fast.”
-Jamarion Herring,
CCHS varsity football linebacker and senior
In the 2024-25 season, the Gladiators dominated the Tigers with a 48-3 victory. This year, the Gladiators enter with a 3-5 overall record, while the Tigers hold a 1-7 record. Despite the setback, CCHS varsity football linebacker Jamarion Herring, a senior, remains positive.
“With the recent injuries, we are adjusting day-by-day, getting the younger guys to step up and building confidence so they can play to their full potential Friday night,” Herring said. “You guys should expect the Glads to come out firing, trying to put the game away fast.”
As they head into the upcoming game with a heavy underclassman lineup, including sophomore Hudson Welter as the team’s starting quarterback, the Gladiators’ focus has shifted from winning to rebuilding and trusting the next generation.
“We have a lot of youth. (That is) going to be (a) challenge, (but) I like it from a sense, because we’ve had no choice but to develop (those players) quicker than they wanted to. It just shows you how good we can and we will be in the future, so that part’s exciting,” Perno said.
