Morgan Academy football coach Josh Thacker doesn’t himself as the only reason for the Senators’ rise to becoming a top-notch program.

Thacker is The Selma Times-Journal’s prep football coach of the year for the second straight season.

Thacker shifts the Senators’ success to the assistant coaches, players, school administrators, parents and supporters.

“Being coach of the year is an honor, but it’s mostly a reflection of the players and the coaching staff,” Thacker said.  “We have a great administration.  Some of the parents bring food to the games and paint field signs. Some people who don’t have kids on the teams are bringing music.”

Thacker, also Morgan Academy’s Athletic Director, said the entire school administration support of the student-athletes is invaluable.

“It’s something we harp on when we get out of practice,” Thacker said. “We talk a lot about family.”

Thacker is more thrilled at the post-season accolades Morgan Academy received after its 9-3 finish.

The Senators had five players on the ASWA All-state team: quarterback Jeremy Lee (first team, athlete), wide receivers Ed Williams (second team) and safety Hardin Utsey (second team), offensive lineman Kenneth Nichols (honorable mention) and defensive lineman Taylor Henderson (honorable mention).

“The players worked hard this year,” Thacker said. “Every Friday night, they went out and played both ways for us. I’m proud of them.”

Thacker was thrilled that the school was well-represented at the AISA All-Star football game on Nov. 30 in Montgomery.

Seven players were picked: wide receivers Mason Perkins, Ed Williams and Hardin Utsey linebacker Pierson Atchison, noseguard Taylor Henderson, cornerback Dione Allen and safety Taylor Jones. Thacker served as offensive coordinator for the contest.

Morgan Academy cheerleaders on the East squad were Peyton Ellen Granthum, Mary Margaret Beers and Mary Carolyn Haugen. Morgan Academy cheerleader coach Alex Harrelson was one of the East cheerleading coaches. Morgan Academy Director of Instruction Karim Oaks served as the AISA Cheerleader Coordinator.