Photo courtesy of Cari Dean.
1012 Chelsea Football
Chelsea Hornets ball carrier Cooper Page (11) tries to shake a defender in the Hornets’ loss to Spain Park in September 37-23. The Hornets’ loss was their first to a team in their division since being moved up to 6A Region 4.
In its first two games of 6A play, Chelsea’s football team was undefeated. The Hornets beat John Carroll 42-9 and Thompson 42-23. Unfortunately, the team lost to the Spain Park Jaguars the third week 23-37. However, coaches said they were proud the team played a great game.
“We’re just going to come out and play straight up Chelsea football like we have been,” senior football player Wil Rodell said. “We have made a few adjustments, and this team is more than ready to bounce back and prove that we are ready for 6A football.”
The Hornets are continuing to set higher standards.
“6A isn’t going to be easy,” senior Zak Vandergeest said, “but I think it will make us a better team and school knowing we are going to have to compete harder than ever.”
With their new challenge as a 6A team, students and staff are ramping up their spirit for the football season.
“I’m really happy we’ve moved up to 6A,” junior Christian Colburn said. “Our games will be tougher, but I think our teams will pull through.”
As the students increase their support for the current football season, the other teams are also training for their upcoming 6A seasons. In the spring, the Alabama High School Athletic Association had moved Chelsea High School from 5A into the 6A, Region 4 slot as a result of growth in the community.
“I am excited for the new challenges and excitement that 6A will bring to Chelsea High School athletics,” said Angela Gaines, physical education teacher and assistant softball coach.
In the past, Chelsea has played a few 6A teams in various sports. The teams are prepared for what will come up during their 6A seasons.
“6A is the best thing that has happened to Chelsea athletics,” senior baseball player Tripp Hobbs said. “It puts a fire inside each and every one of us to play up to our true potential and be a contender.”
As the football season continues to impress the Chelsea community, students and staff are eager to watch their other athletes shine in the 6A games.
Kaitlyn Seesholtz is a senior at Chelsea High School. She is involved in Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society, Future Teachers of Alabama, Peer Helpers and Key Club. Kaitlyn enjoys photography, reading and volunteering, and she plans to pursue a career in education.
