In the wake of the TFS Indians’ first-ever Region Championship, the boys are looking to build on that success in 2021-22.
The season, which is slated to open with a November 9 scrimmage at home against Rabun Gap, is a chance for TFS to re-assert itself as the region heavyweight. The Indians went 18-5 last season on the way to an undefeated region portion of the schedule. After claiming the regular season championship, the boys polished it off with a tournament championship as well.
TFS fell in the opening round of the state playoffs when drawing a tough top-ranked program. Among the accolades for the team included a well-earned #9 state ranking throughout the season.
Returning to anchor the lineup are standout juniors Devonte Allen and Anfernee Hanna, as well as senior point guard Charlie Cody. Newcomers that are expected to play significant roles include Gavin Page and Milos Vico. Page played on the undefeated JV team last season after transferring over. He will be a welcome presence with his ball-handling skills and ability to create his own shot. Vico is a senior transfer from Serbia who is expected to produce at a high level in his only season at Tallulah Falls.
The team moves on from the likes of last year’s senior leaders Sammy Davis and Simeon Respress, as well as Gabe Keene who transferred to IMG Academy in Florida. The Indians bring back a solid nucleus of talent, however.
“Our strengths include athleticism and experience,” says coach Cody Coleman. “We have key players returning with major minutes from last season.”
Coleman, who has guided the boys to back-to-back state playoff appearances in his first two seasons at the helm, is 28-19 since coming to Tallulah Falls, and was the Region Coach of the Year last season. Hanna was a 2nd Team All-Region selection, while Allen was an Honorable Mention. Hanna’s 161 rebounds last season was the 10th most in a single season in TFS history, while Allen’s 146 ranked 16th.
With all the success of last season and the year prior, the Indians are not aiming to get complacent.
“We want to continue to build on our program’s foundation,” states Coleman.
The official season-opener is November 12 at Mt. Paran, with the regular season home opener slated for December 3 against Hayesville (NC).
