Coach Smith of Southside seems very excited about how his kids have responded during camp preparing for the season. He cited a high level of dedication and discipline and says the squad is fortunate that they came through with no injuries. He'll step up a level in experience, returning 14 sophomores, along with several freshmen and 8th graders who have previous playing experience. And he has a few players returning for their senior year that he is counting on to provide some leadership. The team will operate offensively out of the Wing-T and will field a 4-3 defense with some variations. In the class 5A re- alignment this year, the Panthers lost Albertville and Madison Co. and picked up Columbia and Brewer in the new alignment. Southside opens the new season on Thursday night against the Hokes Bluff Eagles.

Photo provided by The Messenger