News Summary
Collins High School has appointed Randy Craft as the new head football coach, with a focus on revitalizing the Tigers program. The goals include improving fundamentals and aiming for a playoff position. Player leadership will be emphasized, with TJ Barnes identified as a key player. Coach Craft, previously a defensive coordinator, aims to leverage his experience to create a strong team culture and achieve regional success. As the team prepares for the upcoming opener, community anticipation is high for the positive changes in the program.
Collins, Mississippi — New Leadership Aims to Boost Tigers Football Program
Collins High School has announced the appointment of Randy Craft as its new head football coach for the upcoming 2025 season. The change comes with hopes of revitalizing the team’s performance, emphasizing improved fundamentals, discipline, and leadership development.
Key Objectives and Team Goals
The primary objectives outlined for the Tigers are to make consistent weekly progress, finish within the top two teams in their region, and secure a spot in the playoffs. One of the long-term ambitions is to win the regional championship, which would be a significant achievement for the team and the school community. As the new season approaches, starting on Friday, August 29, at 7 p.m. against Sumrall High School, the team is eager to demonstrate the changes brought by Coach Craft.
Leadership and Player Development
Player leadership is expected to play a crucial role in the development of the team under Coach Craft’s leadership. Among the players, TJ Barnes has been identified as a key leader. Barnes finished the 2024 season with over 700 total yards and scored eight rushing touchdowns, establishing himself as a significant contributor on offense. Coach Craft is focusing on enhancing Barnes’s skill set, particularly increasing his explosiveness to maximize his impact on the field.
Barnes is known among teammates for being vocal and experienced, having logged considerable playing time last season. This leadership dynamic is expected to be vital in fostering a positive and disciplined team environment as the Tigers adapt to new coaching strategies and expectations.
Coaching Experience and Philosophy
Randy Craft comes to Collins High School with a background rooted in defensive coaching. Most recently, he served as the defensive coordinator at Hattiesburg High School during the previous season. His coaching career was significantly shaped by working under Tony Vance, a notable figure in Mississippi high school football and the winningest coach in Hattiesburg High’s history. This mentorship provided Craft with valuable skills in leadership and strategic game management, which he aims to apply at Collins.
Anticipated Impact on the Team
Craft recognizes that his past experience will help him connect with players on a leadership level and foster a strong team culture. He appreciates the energy and readiness of the current roster to embrace change, which he sees as conducive to building a competitive program. The coaching staff is optimistic about the team’s ability to improve progressively and contend for regional honors.
Background and Context
Collins High School’s football program has a longstanding tradition in the region, with ambitions to consistently challenge for titles and playoff positions. The appointment of a new head coach reflects the school’s commitment to elevating the program’s performance and fostering player growth. The 2025 season marks a new chapter for the Tigers, with expectations for significant development both on and off the field.
As the team prepares for their opener against Sumrall High School, community members and fans are watching closely to see how the new coaching strategies and leadership will translate into success during the upcoming season.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Legislation Aims to Address Rising Physician Shortage
St. Louis Public Schools Plans Major Closures
Additional Resources
- Gamecocks Online: Geoff Collins Joins Gamecock Football Coaching Staff
- Wikipedia: South Carolina Gamecocks Football
- AJC: Former Georgia Tech Football Coach Joins Staff at South Carolina
- Google Search: Geoff Collins
- Football Scoop: Geoff Collins at South Carolina
- Google Scholar: South Carolina Football
- On3: Shane Beamer Explains Decision to Add Geoff Collins
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Geoff Collins
- 247Sports: South Carolina Gamecocks Football – Geoff Collins
- Google News: South Carolina Football
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
