Marion County High School 2016

MC.CoachMathisCoach’s Corner
Coach Joey Mathis

Q: How would you characterize this year’s team?

A: They’re hardworking and know what it takes to be successful.

Q: What will be the keys to your success?

A: We have to stay healthy, focus on our progress each day, and not get distracted.

Q: Who will be your key leaders on the team?

A: Alex Kirkendoll (Sr., TE/ILB), Hunter McClain (Sr., FB/ILB), Logan Campbell (Sr., OL/DL), Eli Morrison (Sr., OL/ILB), Corey Tucker (Sr., OL/DL), Hunter Zeman (Sr., QB/RB/OLB), Ty Heifner (Sr., OL/DL), Ismael Avila (Sr., OL/DL), Cory Murray (Sr., RB/OLB), Jacob Saylors (Jr., RB/DB), and Kane Hale (Jr., WR/FS).

Q: What are your biggest reasons for optimism?Screen Shot 2016-08-25 at 9.59.23 AM

A: The biggest reason for me to be optimistic is that these kids have good hearts. They want to be successful, and they’re dedicated to this school, community, and program.

Q: What will keep you up at night?

A: Much like my own son, the decisions made by these young men away from the field house are what keep me up at night. Kids these days are bombarded with outside influences, and we want them to be aware of how an impulsive decision can impact their lives and our team.

Q: What can you build on from last year?

A: We’ve been fortunate to have played in the state championship game the past two seasons. We want to be there again in the end, but we also want to focus on the fundamentals and never take a day to get better for granted.

Coach’s View

We play in a tough district with very talented, well-coached football teams. We have to focus, work hard, and improve during every practice. When you return as many offensive lineman and defensive starters as we return, there’s some optimism for a successful season. We know that if our team chemistry is good, and players sacrifice for each other and work hard, we can have the type of season this school and community have come to expect.


Photos Courtesy of Garrett Sowder


Hunter Zeman

Hunter Zeman

Alex Kirkendoll and Corey Tucker

Alex Kirkendoll and Corey Tucker

Jacob Saylors

Jacob Saylors

Hunter McClain, Eli Morrison, and CoreyTucker

Hunter McClain, Eli Morrison, and CoreyTucker

Corey Murray

Corey Murray

Alex Kirkendoll

Alex Kirkendoll

Corey Tucker, Ty Heifner, and Ismael Avila

Corey Tucker, Ty Heifner, and Ismael Avila

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