VELMA-ALMA COMETS
Coach: RANDY NORTON
8-3
OFFENSE
Heading into their second season back in 11-man football, the Velma-Alma Comets are determined to build on the momentum of last year’s 8-3 finish. While several starters graduated, Coach Randy Norton believes this year’s mix of veteran leadership and hungry young talent can keep the Comets among the area’s most competitive teams. Senior quarterback Slade Strickland (6-0, 185) returns to guide the offense after a strong junior campaign where he posted 1,051 passing yards and 758 rushing yards. His dual-threat ability will be critical as the Comets develop new faces in the lineup. In the backfield, senior Kole Pierce (6-0, 175) and junior Chance Melton (5-10, 175) give Velma-Alma a reliable one-two punch capable of grinding out tough yards and breaking big plays. The receiving corps is led by senior Conner Akers (5-11, 185), who hauled in 199 yards and three touchdowns last season. Up front, the Comets are anchored by two experienced seniors in Landon Swisher (6-1, 295) and Zander Riffe (6-5, 295). Their size and strength will be vital to protect Strickland and open lanes for the running game. As younger players step into bigger roles, this group’s veteran presence and work ethic should help them hit their stride early.
DEFENSE
The Comets bring back plenty of experience and toughness on defense, returning their leading tackler and most of their starters. Senior linebacker Ryker Sanner (6-0, 210) is the heart of the unit after racking up an impressive 114 tackles last season. Coach Norton calls Sanner the hardest-working player he has ever coached—a fast, physical leader who elevates everyone around him. Strickland will again patrol the secondary, where he contributed 32 tackles and three interceptions. Fellow senior Conner Akers adds another steady presence at safety, while the defensive line returns strength and depth with Aiden Bell (6-0, 235, Jr.) and Chris Belfrod (6-0, 250, Sr.). Kole Pierce will also contribute on defense after recording 30 tackles. With proven playmakers and strong leadership, Velma-Alma’s defense has the tools to be aggressive and disciplined as they aim for another winning season.
9-5 – vs. Cashion
9-12 – vs. Wewoka
9-19 – at Walters
9-26 – at Rush Springs
10-3 – vs. Ringling
10-9 – at Wayne
10-17 – vs. Konawa
10-24 – vs. Healdton
10-31 – at Wilson
11-7 – at Elmore City-Pernell
