Abilene High started last season 1-4 while battling the COVID-19 restrictions and also missing head coach Mike Fullen, who was in his own battle with colon cancer. But Fullen returned to the sideline at midseason and the Eagles caught fire to win five in a row before losing to powerhouse Denton Guyer in the third round of the Class 6A Division II playoffs.
The late surge helped the Eagles finish 6-5 overall and 4-2 and fourth place in District 3-6A to earn the district’s final playoff berth. Fullen believes this year’s team has the potential to be even better. AHS returns six starters on both offense and defense.
QB Abel Ramirez (64-113-1,139, 8 TDs passing and 36-105 rushing) is back to direct the Eagles’ offense. He now has a full season of taking every snap under his belt, giving Abilene High much-needed experience at the important position of quarterback.
RB Da’King Thomas (35-182, 2 TDs rushing 4-55, 1 TD receiving) will join Ramirez in the backfield. Anthony Ramirez (10-178 receiving) is Abilene High’s top returning receiver.
LB Jayton Stuckey (54 tackles) and S Noah Hatcher (38 tackles, 2 INTs) are back to anchor the Eagles’ defense.
Other players that Fullen is counting on include WR Tim Outlaw, DB Alquan Livistion and OL Zach Killam.
Depth is Fullen’s biggest concern, so staying healthy will be critical in Abilene High’s goal of finishing among the top four teams again this fall in rugged District 3-6A and earning another playoff berth.
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