After an 8–3 season that ended with a trip to the MACCC Championship, the East Central Community College football team is aiming to take the next step in 2025 under head coach Jonathan Webster.
Webster said the Warriors showed flashes of their potential last fall but still have room to grow.
"The biggest takeaway is that we still have a way to go to be a consistent championship contender," Webster said. "Another is that ECCC has the potential I thought it did when I took this job — to be a championship contender."
Last year's title game loss to Northwest Mississippi was a reminder of what it will take to reach that level.
"We have to continue to get better and not get complacent in having just some success," Webster said.
The Warriors return several key pieces on both sides of the ball. Offensively, running back #3 Tyler Arrington is an explosive playmaker, while receivers #1 Eelijah Singleton, #2 Hayden Jackson, and #5 Waymond Jenerette Jr. add depth in the passing game. Up front, #55 Freddie Gavin Jr. anchors the offensive line. On defense, leaders include #0 Delvin Whitaker on the line, linebackers #1 Keoni Denny, #6 Elgin McDuffey, and #8 Jai'teriyas Robinson, with defensive backs #4 Tai Terrell, #12 Prince Cottonham, and #13 Kristian Dillard providing experience in the secondary.
Newcomers are also expected to contribute right away. On offense, quarterback #6 Brady Hammonds, tight ends #0 Gabriel Bobbitt and #16 Jeremiah Moss, and offensive linemen #77 Jordan Foy, #52 Andre Woods, and #73 Robert McMillian bring fresh talent. Defensively, linemen #42 Fabian Kimbrough and #97 Anthony "Bo" Hopson Jr. are set to make an impact.
Webster said the 2025 Warriors will be defined by their approach.
"We want to play violent and fast — and above all else, smart," he said.
Team speed and added size should stand out as strengths, but youth presents both challenges and opportunities.
"We are a younger team overall and lost a lot of game experience from last season," Webster said. "There are a lot of unknowns when it comes to in-game experience, but that can also be exciting."
The goals are clear: start fast, improve each week, and position the Warriors for another playoff push.
"During the regular season, we want to get off to a good start and keep getting better throughout the year," Webster said. "In the postseason, the expectation is to be one of the four teams that makes the playoff."
Webster emphasized that the bond within the team will be the difference.
"You never want to take a step backward as a program, but your team is different every year," he said. "Our bond will always determine our destiny."
He also credited the support of the Warrior faithful as a key factor.
"We have an amazing fan base," Webster said. "My message to them would be to continue to support and encourage these guys. Show up on Thursday nights and bring the electric energy."
2025 ECCC Warriors Schedule
Aug. 28 Northeast Mississippi
Sept. 4 at Northwest Mississippi
Sept. 11 Itawamba Community College
Sept. 18 at Pearl River
Sept. 26 Hinds
Oct. 9 at Mississippi Gulft Coast
Oct. 16 Jones College
Oct. 23 at Copiah-Lincoln
Oct. 30 Southwest Mississippi
