By David Wagner
New Western Albemarle Head Football Coach Ed Redmond led the Warriors to the playoffs in his inaugural season and has plenty to build on for the future. The Warriors got their first playoff win since 2009 en route to a 10-win season. Behind the leadership of junior quarterback Kent Henry and senior linebacker Tommy Mullin, the Warriors captured the Jefferson District Regular Season Championship and were undefeated in non-district play. Coach Redmon had 22 juniors on the 2012 squad and many played prominent roles in the team’s success. He will also have an experienced team for 2013. Mullin will graduate this year, along with Daniel Kuzjak, Dom Christmas, Trevor Harlow and Isaiah Cowen, but the Warriors will have most of their starters returning, including two-year starter Henry, wide receiver/defensive back Nik Drapanas, Steven Hearn, two-way lineman Patrick Maupin, center Tucker Herr, Tre Banks and a host of others.
Redmon’s experience as a Head Coach was evident as the season progressed. His ability to work with a new coaching staff, as well as getting the team to buy into his coaching philosophy propelled the Warriors to the district championship and a playoff win.
If they can shore up the defense, the Warriors could have a very special team. Scott Fox and Patrick Maupin will anchor the defense up front and Drapanas and Hearn will solidify an already strong secondary. Mullin will have to be replaced at middle linebacker, but the talent is there. The offense is loaded and Henry will be entering his third season as a starter. The main concern on offense will most likely be developing a running game outside of Henry. The quarterback takes a lot of hits. Henry has also been the leading rusher the last two seasons.
In 2013 the Warriors should be poised to make a run at another district title.
