Nitro Football
2022 Recap
The 2022 football season brought both highs and lows for the Nitro Wildcats. Despite finishing with a 3-7 record, the team showcased moments of brilliance, determination, and resilience throughout the season. Let’s dive into their journey and explore the ups and downs they faced on their quest for victory.
The Nitro Wildcats kicked off their season with a bang, capturing two big victories over Poca and St. Albans. These wins ignited the team’s hopes and set a positive tone for the upcoming challenges. With the offense scoring an average of 18 points per game, they exhibited promising potential.
As the season progressed, the Wildcats encountered formidable opponents, leading to a challenging stretch where they suffered six consecutive losses. This phase tested the team’s resolve, but it also served as a learning experience for the players and coaches.
Amidst the losses, the Nitro Wildcats fought valiantly and played in tightly contested games against Logan and Clay County. These matchups showcased the team’s resilience and ability to compete against strong adversaries. Though they fell short on the scoreboard, these performances provided valuable lessons and opportunities for growth.
Despite a rough stretch, the Wildcats refused to let adversity define their season. In a late-season game against Sissonville, they demonstrated their determination and secured one more hard-earned victory. This win served as a testament to their unwavering spirit and their refusal to give up.
The Nitro Wildcats faced an uphill battle on defense, surrendering an average of 37 points per game. However, it’s important to note that defensive statistics don’t always reflect the effort and dedication exhibited by the players. Each game presented an opportunity for the Wildcats’ defense to refine their skills, adjust strategies, and keep striving for improvement.
The 2022 Nitro Wildcat Football Team endured a rollercoaster ride of triumphs and defeats. Despite finishing with a 3-7 record and facing defensive challenges, the team displayed resilience and determination throughout the season. Their strong start, coupled with gritty performances against tough opponents, showcases the potential and character of the Nitro Wildcats. With the valuable lessons learned and a commitment to growth, the Wildcats are poised to bounce back in future seasons, ready to overcome obstacles and achieve their desired success.
2023 Outlook
The anticipation is mounting as the 2023 football season approaches, and all eyes are on the Nitro Wildcats. Under the leadership of head coach Boom McKinney, the Wildcats have generated considerable buzz during the off-season, positioning themselves as a potential sleeper team in the AA division. With a formidable schedule ahead, including challenging matchups against Herbert Hoover, Winfield, and Scott, the Wildcats are primed to make a statement on the field.
A standout player to watch on the offensive line is Devon Pugh. Pugh’s exceptional strength, agility, and football IQ make him a formidable force in the trenches. His ability to provide solid protection for the quarterback and open up running lanes for the Wildcats’ talented backfield will be crucial to the team’s success.
On the defensive end, linebacker Xiomar Henry is set to make a significant impact. Henry’s exceptional speed, instinct, and relentless pursuit of the ball carrier make him a nightmare for opposing offenses. With his ability to read plays and make timely tackles, Henry will be a cornerstone of the Wildcats’ defensive unit.
Tight end Landon Poniatowski possesses the ideal combination of size and athleticism, making him a reliable target for the Wildcats’ quarterback. Poniatowski’s ability to create mismatches against defenders will provide an added dimension to the Wildcats’ offense. Look for him to make crucial catches in critical situations, providing a reliable outlet for the passing game.
In addition to the impact players mentioned, the Wildcats have a secret weapon in specialist Maddox Cole. Cole’s precision and consistency in the kicking game will be pivotal in securing favorable field position for the team. Whether it’s nailing crucial field goals or pinning opponents deep within their territory, Cole’s contributions will undoubtedly prove invaluable.
Despite their status as a sleeper team, the Wildcats face a demanding schedule featuring formidable opponents. Games against Herbert Hoover, Winfield, and Scott will serve as crucial tests for the team.
As the 2023 football season kicks off, the Nitro Wildcats exude confidence and determination. Coach Boom McKinney has instilled a winning culture within the team, and the impact players such as Devon Pugh, Xiomar Henry, Landon Poniatowski, and specialist Maddox Cole are ready to make their mark on the field. The Wildcats’ journey promises excitement, passion, and the potential for remarkable success as they aim to defy expectations and carve out their place among the AA division’s elite teams.
2023 Nitro Football Roster
Senior Football Roster
- Class: AA
- City: Nitro
- County: Kanawha
- Superintendent: Dr. Tom Williams
- Principal: Jason Redman
- Assistant Principal: Niki DeMartino-Gordon, Brian Barth
- Athletic Director: Garrett Burdette
- Head Coach: James (Boom) McKinney
- Assistant Coaches: Thomas Lovejoy, Collin Beckner, Chad Lovejoy, Wes Price, Matt Lovejoy, Shannon Hanning
- Sports Medicine Staff: : Colton Whittington
- Cheerleading Coaches: Madison McCloud and Lisa Hedrick
- Cheerleaders:
- Nickname: Wildcats
- Band Director: Rich Brooks
- Team Doctor:
- Managers:
- Statistician:
- Video: Joe Oliver
- Head Coach Information
-
Players
# Pos. Name Gr Ht Wt Avg
Devon Pugh 12
Jacob Bowling 12
Amellio Miller 12
Chris Hall 12
Crameron Crandall 12
Lorenzo Short 12
Jayden Thomas 12
Braxton Lovejoy 11
Issac Samples 11
Andrew Thomas 11
Andrew Thomas 11
Charles Cantrell 11
Eli Littlejohn 11
Aric Hale 11
Ashton Crouch 11
Deshaun Stotts 11
Ernest Moody 11
Zaevyon Dickerson 11
Maddox Cole 11
Brogan Chambers 11
Malachi Thompson 10
Joshua Buzzard 10
XZAYVEON Whitestone 10
Jacob Casto 10
Luke Shaffer 10
Coltyn Lycans 10
Joshua Waller 10
Jayden Hill 10
Ty’Lil Mills 10
Jonathon Sheets 10
Christopher combs 10
Landen Hamilton 10
Aiden Kinser 10
Tucker Emswiller 10
Mikael Bosse Jr 10
Jyns Byrd 10
Kadir Maxwell 10
Kasey Elliott 10
Kaidyn McCallister 10
Kymani White 9
Robert Miller 9
Braylon Price 9
Lucas Kirk 9
Trent Jones 9
Justin Raines 9
Aiden Preston 9
Charles James 9
Ayden Carter 9
Colton Feming 9
Dakota Bryant 9
Brayden Workman 9
Jordan Boyd 9
Kristapher White 9
8 TE / DL Noah Gunter 12 5’8 153
13 WR / DB Michael Wines 12 5’5 109
28 Xiomar Henry 12
56 OL / DL Charles Newsome 12 6′ 152
62 Dominick Wise 11