Stephens County High School’s Head Football coach, Wesley Tankersley, affectionately known as “Coach Tank,” has much to celebrate with the completion of two signing days this year for the Indians. “We’ve been fortunate to have two signing days this year, giving our athletes the opportunity to continue their football careers at the collegiate level. This year has been an exciting journey for our team, and we’re proud to celebrate the achievements of these dedicated young men who have put in the hard work both on and off the field.”
Fall Signing Day
The first signing day, which took place at the end of the fall semester, was a significant milestone for the Stephens County football program. One of the standout players was Javin Gordon, who committed to Tulane University. Gordon, an All-State running back for both his junior and senior seasons, has been a dominant force on the field according to Coach Tankersley. He was named the region’s offensive player of the year for two consecutive years, rushing for over 1,000 yards each season. “Javin’s impact extended beyond rushing, with more than 2,000 all-purpose yards each season and 52 receptions out of the backfield this year—an impressive feat for a running back. We are excited to see him succeed at Tulane and continue to represent the legacy of our program,” Coach Tankersley added.
Second Signing Day
This past week, Stephens County High School’s football program had the privilege of celebrating five more athletes who signed with colleges to continue their athletic careers.
Tripp Underwood – University of Virginia at Wise
Tripp Underwood has been a reliable leader at quarterback, earning All-Region honors during his junior and senior seasons. This year, he threw for over 2,400 yards and 28 touchdowns, also receiving honorable mention for All-State. “His leadership and skill on the field will be missed, but we know he will thrive at UVA-Wise,” Coach Tankersley said about Underwood.
Jonah Swinton – Erskine College
“Jonah’s versatility on the field was key to his success,” Coach Tankersley explained. Jonah Swinton was initially recognized as an All-Region defensive player in his junior season, then he transitioned to wide receiver and excelled. This past year, he was named both All-Region and All-State honorable mention at wide receiver, posting 48 receptions for over 800 yards and 11 touchdowns. “His work ethic and determination are qualities that will make him a valuable asset to Erskine College,” Coach Tankersley added.
Brock Tankersley – Tusculum University
This year, Brock Tankersley earned All-State honors as a defensive player after recording over 160 total tackles. He also contributed to the offense with 8 total touchdowns. “A three-year starter on defense and two-year starter on offense, Brock’s leadership and hard work have been invaluable to our program,” Coach Tankersley expressed. “His physicality and leadership will certainly be missed, but we know he’ll continue to shine at Tusculum.”
Jakob Lunsford – Reinhardt University
Jakob Lunsford’s presence on the defensive line has been a key factor in the Indian’s defensive success. He started since his sophomore season and was named All-Region during both his junior and senior years. This year, he earned All-State honorable mention and recorded 93 total tackles, 24 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks. “Jakob’s impact on both sides of the ball will leave a lasting impression on our program, and we look forward to seeing him excel at Reinhardt University,” Coach Tankersley remarked.
Kamari McCarter – Brevard College
Kamari McCarter has been a powerful force on the defensive line for Stephens County, earning All-Region honors for his play this season. With 59 total tackles, 28 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks, Kamari’s skill and determination were evident on the field. Coach Tankersley believes, “His success at Brevard College will be a continuation of his hard work, and we’re excited to see where his journey takes him.”
Stephens County’s success
Coach Tankersley attributes more than just physical talent to the success of these athletes. “All of these young men possess exceptional character, discipline, and academic dedication. They have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, both on the field and in the classroom. Their hard work, perseverance, and ability to lead by example have set them apart as leaders within our program. They’ve worked tirelessly to reach their goals, pushing themselves to be the best every day.”
The impact of their departure
“While we will undoubtedly will miss these outstanding seniors, we are optimistic about what their departure means for the future of our program,” Coach Tankersley admitted. He believes the legacy they leave behind—of hard work, leadership, and success—will continue to inspire future athletes. “We believe their example will motivate other young men in our program to follow in their footsteps, working to achieve the same level of success. As they move on to the next chapter in their athletic careers, we are confident that they will continue to make us proud and represent our program with honor.”
The Stephens County High School football program has much to look forward to. “We are excited to see where the futures of these young men take them and are proud of everything they’ve accomplished. They’ve made a lasting impact on our football program, and we’re grateful for their contributions and the example they’ve set,” Coach Tankersley added.
