Yellow Jackets Sting Their Way Into Playoffs, Ready to Buzz at Home Against West Stanley
The air in Lexington is electric, charged with the palpable excitement of high school football playoffs! The Lexington Yellow Jackets have officially punched their ticket, clinching a coveted playoff berth, and the best part? Their first-round game will be played right here at home. Their initial opponent will be West Stanley High School of Stanley County, and if Head Coach Charles Morman's enthusiasm is any indication, the Yellow Jackets are more than ready to defend their hive.
Despite finishing the regular season with a 6-4 record, Coach Morman beams with pride, stating, “The team has improved, and I feel that the team is better than a 6-4 record.” For Morman, this year’s squad holds a particularly special significance because he “started with this group of guys.” This deep-rooted connection speaks volumes about the commitment and shared journey of the players and their coach.
Ja’hon Robinson, Gary Vinson, Jaiden Summers, Jasius Leak, Colin Weeks
not pictured Kamari Mcdonald
Overcoming Adversity and a Quarterback Evolution
The Yellow Jackets' journey hasn't been without its hurdles, notably a string of injuries. Yet, the team has refused to miss a step, showcasing remarkable depth and resilience. A crucial piece of this puzzle lies in a selfless act of leadership: senior Quarterback Colin Weeks' move to tight end.
This unselfish decision directly led to the rise of freshman quarterback Jaiden Summers. Coach Morman revealed that Summers has been practicing with the varsity team since the moment he arrived. The evolution hasn't fractured the team; rather, it’s forged a potent partnership between the veteran and the newcomer.
Fr. Quarterback Jaiden Summers
Sr. Quarterback and Tigh-End Colin weeks
Morman highlighted the dynamic between the two, noting their “great chemistry.” Weeks, now playing tight end, provides critical blocking power while also possessing the ability to make great catches and get open downfield after his block. Summers, meanwhile, has been consistently impressive from behind the center. Morman praised the freshman's play, calling him “very consistent and efficient from the helms,” a trait he finds both important and highly impressive for a freshman player.
Weapons and Playoff Confidence
While Weeks and Summers form the backbone of the offense, the Yellow Jackets possess a formidable array of threats. Names like Jasius Leak, Gary Vinson, Ja’Hon Robinson, and Kamari McDonald are all key players the West Stanley defense will need to account for on Friday night.
Lexington rides into the playoffs on a three-game winning streak, momentum that Coach Morman believes is contagious. “I feel confident going into the playoffs, and I feel good about where we are in the playoffs,” he declared. Morman is not just content with a single game either; he boldly stated that he feels the team “can make a run on the west side of the bracket.”
His conviction is absolute when it comes to his team's effort. “I know without a shout of a doubt with this group of kids they are going to leave everything on the field Friday night against West Stanley.”
A Call for Jacket Pride
The coach’s final message wasn't just for his players; it was a rallying cry for the community. Morman strongly encourages parents, alumni, and the entire Lexington community to show up and support the team. He urged them to help fill the stands so that the players can truly "see what Jacket Pride is all about."
With a home-field advantage secured and a confident coach leading a unified, resilient team, the Lexington Yellow Jackets are poised for a thrilling playoff run. The stage is set for a memorable Friday night. Best of luck Yellow Jackets!
