Charleston embraces change, pursues success

CHARLESTON, Mo. — The winds of change blow through the Charleston football program, leaving a void that must be filled.

However, with a group of dedicated young athletes ready to step up, the team remains steadfast in its mission to claim a district championship.

“This is a group of hard-working young men who are very dedicated to our program,” said Charleston head coach Justin Hutchings. “We lost a lot last year and will have to play some different football this year, but our goal is to be back in the running for a district championship.”

Charleston players compete during practice on Friday, August 11, 2023. (Submitted)

Despite the challenges that lie ahead, Hutchings remains optimistic about the team’s prospects, emphasizing the importance of maintaining composure and instilling confidence in the players. He also believes in nurturing a strong relationship with his athletes, which he considers a key factor in their success.

“[I always] try to be cool and calm,” he said. “I have high expectations for the guys. I am overwhelmingly positive to the point where the guys don’t even like it. But we have to build confidence in ourselves even when we make mistakes so we don’t get in our heads.”

With the new season on the horizon, the spotlight turns to the team’s top returners who stand ready to make a significant impact.

Charleston players compete during practice on Friday, August 11, 2023. (Submitted)

These accomplished athletes are primed to lead the team toward success.

Senior Ko’Terrion Owens returns at quarterback after splitting time at the position last season and completing 20-of-43 pass attempts for 272 yards and two touchdowns. He also ran for 51 yards and five touchdowns.

“He is smart, composed, and a great leader for us on offense,” Hutchings said. “We have been working on getting faster and being more physical,” he continued. “These guys love the weight room and have been working extremely hard.”

Charleston players compete during practice on Friday, August 11, 2023. (Submitted)

The Bluejays also return several players along the offensive line, including some three and four-year starters in senior Charles David, juniors Deshaun Henderson, Vega McKinney, Kieshundrau Orr and sophomore Mortonion Hall.

“They are all team-first guys and everybody has potential as long as they work for it,” Hutchings said. “Mortonion Hall has been playing center for us and has been taking pride in being great at that position. We have some other first-year players and freshmen that I am looking forward to seeing this year.”

David, Henderson, McKinney and Orr are also expected to make major contributions along the defensive line, while Hall will play at linebacker.

David finished last season with 22 tackles and two forced fumbles; Henderson made 20 tackles, forced three fumbles and had 1.5 sacks; and Orr had seven tackles.

Junior safety Tayshon Clark will always be an impact player on the defensive side of the football.

“He is a ball hawk and does a great job coming downhill,” Hutchings said. “He’s been working hard in all facets of his game, and will be our leader in the secondary which will consist of a lot of new players.”

Hutchings said Owens, David and Henderson have done an excellent job of stepping up and leading during the summer workouts.

“They keep calm when the storm is raging,” he said. “They also lead inside the classroom and have high expectations for their peers.

“We are a very tight unit,” Hutchings continued. “Very positive with each other, even when mistakes are made. We realize that it takes everyone to win and be great, which is what we are bought into.”

Hutchings not only prioritized the team’s performance on the field and harbored a deep understanding of personal growth and life lessons.

“We’re getting faster and getting our offense locked in,” he concluded. “I also try to let them know I am trying to help them for life not just on the football field’’

Charleston will open its regular season at East Prairie on Friday, August 25.