Pirates look to contend in Moody's second year

The Gosnell Pirates held their "Media Day" on Thursday. In his second year as head coach, Gary Moody looks to improve upon last year's 5-6 overall record, third place finish in the 3-4A conference and first-round exit in the 4A state playoffs.

"It's totally different than it was at this time last year," said Moody. "Last year, we really didn't know what we had. That's what happens when a coach leaves and a new one comes in. Now, we have players who have been in the system for a year. They know what we want. They know what to expect. They have game experience."

The Pirates will return eight starters on offense and seven on defense compared to just three players a year ago who had any significant game experience. Among the big names is senior tight end/defensive end Jerry Henry, who returns after an injury-plagued 2012 season.

The Pirates also return junior quarterback Dwight Griffin (6-0, 165) and leading rusher Marcus Mullins, who runs 4.5 40-yard dash, as well as other key pieces. Griffin has 4.6 speed and he's a duel-threat at quarterback.

The Pirates also have a talented sophomore class coming off an undefeated junior high season -- led by brawny running back/linebacker Carlos Blackman, who stands at 6-foot-1, 210 pounds and runs a 4.7. The Pirates will look to contend with defending conference 3-4A champion Highland and Valley View, which finished in second a year ago.

Highland lost all-state quarterback Sterling Stowers to graduation but the Rebels return plenty of players from their team that finished in the state semifinals. Valley View has a large group returning and has plenty of firepower on offense.

The Pirates will head to East Poinsett County on Tuesday, Aug. 27 for their annual AAA benefit game. The junior high game begins at 5:30 p.m. with the senoir high contest following at 7 p.m.

afitzpatrick@blythevillecourier.com