Out, is Irving Strickland after 11 seasons and four playoff appearances as the head coach of the Red Devils. Out is Anthony Troutman after just two seasons as the head coach of the Red Devils. In, is a long time Polk County assistant coach Kenny Strong. The first order of business, change the culture. Create demand and demand accountability from everyone inside the locker-room.
The tradition of Kathleen football is stiff and deep. Alum and the community love them some Kathleen High School and Red Devil Football. But, success has side-stepped Kathleen since the 2015 season when Irving Strickland led his team to a 9-2 season and a District Runner-Up Playoff birth. Since then, just 17 wins. Enter the new era under Kenny Strong and new attitudes from key players.
NEWCOMERS
Alex Bledsoe (LB, Auburndale transfer) – High IQ player with good speed and physical strength. He’s a hard-nosed football player, a wall in the run game, and holds his own in pass coverage.
Shaquille Hardin (OL, Victory Christian transfer) – Tough and physical in the trenches. Relentless effort. High motor and will be a significant piece on the offensive line.
Both players bring leadership and experience in winning cultures.
Kenny Strong
RETURNERS
Kendrick Pinion (WR) – Explosive and versatile athlete. He can do just about anything and can take it to the house from the backfield or receiver position. He’s expected to play a role in the kicking game also. Too dynamic to keep him on the sideline.
Jordan Gant (RB) – The team’s leading rusher last year as a sophomore. Is up to 223 lbs and still has elite vision and balance. A load to bring down. It’s a business decision when a defender steps in front of him. It might not end up in the defender’s favor.
Jeremiah Jackson (OL/DL) – Physical specimen at 6’4, 275 lbs. One look and you’d think he is a redshirt freshman in college. Extremely aggressive in the trenches and athletic enough to play any position on both lines.
All are returning starters that have completely embraced the new changes in the program. They lead by example and hold their teammates accountable to the standard.
Kenny Strong