ARDMORE TIGERS
Coach: JOSH NEWBY
3-7
OFFENSE
The Tigers are ready to compete once again in 5A-1, a district ninth-year Ardmore head coach Josh Newby called “one of the toughest districts in the state” with hopes to improve from its three wins in 2022. Its offense will run the signature Newby flexbone, emphasizing the option and its numbers advantage. It starts up front in Ardmore. Derek Meely (6-1, 225, Sr.), who may be Ardmore’s best overall returning player, will start at left tackle for the Tigers and is one of five returning starters on that side of the ball. Chase Stewart (6-1, 315, Sr.) will start at guard on his side, providing impressive size and strength. At right guard, Gavin Lewis (6-1, 265, Jr.) brings similar power but in a leaner frame. Javon Singleton (6-1, 195, Jr.), an impressive athlete pairing size and 4.7 speed, will return as one of the team’s most experienced players at tight end – playing no small role in Newby’s offense. Kylen Haskins (5-8, 195, Jr.) will carry the ball out of the fullback position. Jailyn Clark (5-8, 180, Jr.) will play in the dynamic slot position.
DEFENSE
Ardmore plans to base out of a 4-2-5 defense, where it prides itself in technique and hustle. Meely, who “will be crucial” to Ardmore’s success on both sides of the ball, will start at defensive end for the Tigers. Newby believes he can be a college prospect thanks to his footwork and quickness on the edge. On the opposite side, Jaxon Weaver (6-1, 195, Sr.) will pack a similar punch. Gavin Lewis (6-1, 265, Jr.), a talented all-around AHS athlete, will start at nose guard with his gritty and physical play; the trio could be a hellacious bunch for opposing lines and ball-carriers. Singleton will get the start at Will linebacker, where his aforementioned mass and agility will shine for the Tigers. The Tigers boast an experienced pair at safety, with Jakorian Halstied (6-0, 175, Sr.) playing free safety and Peyton Smith (5-11, 180, Sr.) playing strong safety. Halstied is also a talented tennis player at Ardmore; Smith plays baseball in the spring.
SCHEDULE
8-25 – at Lawton Eisenhower
9-1 – at Ada
9-8 – vs. Shawnee
9-22 – vs. Noble
9-29 – vs. Elgin
10-6 – at Lawton MacArthur
10-13 – at El Reno
10-19 – vs. Midwest City
10-27 – at Altus
11-3 – vs. Duncan
