By: Cameron Miller

TheSouthernSportsEdition.com news services

After a challenging 2-8 campaign in 2024, the Brantley County Herons are entering the 2025 High School Football Season with a young but battle-tested roster, and a head coach determined to turn things around.

Under the leadership of Head Coach David Shores, now entering another season at the helm, the Herons are focused on growth, discipline, and forging a new identity.

Last year’s squad struggled on both sides of the ball, averaging just 9.8 points per game while allowing 37.2, which left them with a staggering -27.4 point differential.

The team’s struggles came against both non-region and region opponents in GHSA Class A D1 Region 1.

Despite those numbers, the Herons believe the foundation has been laid, especially with a core group of returning players who bring both experience and hunger into 2025.

At the center of the offense is senior quarterback Kaden Hendrix, a 6’4”, 185-pound passer with a strong arm and leadership qualities the team leans on. Hendrix threw for an average of 95.4 yards per game last season and connected for six touchdowns, often under pressure behind a developing offensive line.

As a senior, Hendrix will be counted on to elevate his efficiency and help stabilize the offense. With a full offseason to work with his receivers and offensive coordinator, his development could be the key to unlocking more scoring opportunities this fall.

One of Hendrix’s top playmakers will be Mason Kicklighter, a versatile junior who splits time at running back and inside linebacker.

On offense, Kicklighter posted 34.9 rushing yards and 21.7 receiving yards per game while scoring three rushing touchdowns in 2024. His ability to catch out of the backfield makes him a matchup problem for defenses, and his 5.2 tackles per game on defense showcase his two-way impact.

Another name to watch is Eli Thomas, a Swiss Army knife listed as a strong safety and all-around athlete. He averaged 36.7 total yards per game last season and is expected to take on an expanded role in the offense and special teams this year.

While the defense surrendered over 37 points per game last fall, there are bright spots that give Shores reason for optimism.

Hayden Hickox, a returning inside linebacker, averaged 5.6 tackles per game and recorded two tackles for loss. His instincts and leadership will be crucial as the Herons look to tighten up their run defense.

Alongside him is Haden Kicklighter, another inside linebacker and fullback who posted a team-high 6.8 tackles per game, one sack, and a key fumble recovery.

Together, the Kicklighter-Hickox tandem gives Brantley a hard-nosed presence in the middle of the defense.

The Herons face a competitive slate this fall, opening at home on August 15 against traditional powerhouse Charlton County. Road trips to Windsor Forest, Vidalia, and region rival Fitzgerald will test their resolve, but matchups against teams like Worth County and Bacon County offer chances to pick up critical wins.

With two bye weeks (Sept. 12 and Oct. 10), the Herons will have windows to reset and recover. But make no mistake: every Friday night will be a proving ground for a team hungry to shed last year’s narrative.

Though the Herons are young, there’s a quiet confidence building in Nahunta. The players have endured tough seasons but now carry a chip on their shoulder—and a belief that better days are ahead.

If Brantley County can stay healthy, grow together, and find its rhythm on both sides of the ball, the 2025 season could be the first step toward a new era of Herons football.

2025 Schedule:

8/15 vs Charlton County

8/22 @ Windsor Forest

8/29 vs Pierce County

9/5 @ Vidalia

9/12 BYE

9/19 @ Jeff Davis

9/26 vs Worth County

10/3 @ Fitzgerald

10/10 BYE

10/17 vs Thomasville

10/24 @ Berrien

10/31 vs Bacon County