By Brayleigh Boggs
Carter County Times
After finishing with a 5-6 record last season, the West Carter Comets are back this year feeling recharged, refocused, and determined to take the next step in their 2025 campaign. With a move back to Class 2A, and a completely new district, this year’s squad is optimistic about their prospects.
Following an impressive showing against Boyd County in preseason play at the Grid last week – the score was reset each quarter, but West Carter came out ahead by one in cumulative scores – the team took time to discuss their new offensive approach.
“The team is using our roster’s depth to our advantage this year,” senior quarterback Hayden Hall (15) explained. “With a constant rotation of veteran and rookie players, it helps our team stay fresh and ready for every play.”
Hall, who threw for over 1,900 yards and recorded 22 touchdowns last season, is expected to be a major leader for the Comets this year. And he’s not alone – many seniors are stepping into critical roles as the team pushes toward a breakout year.
Senior Tabor Tackett (53, OT) acknowledged the early success of the preseason but emphasized the need for full commitment.
“Our biggest setback in the Grid wasn’t that we didn’t know what to do. It was that it felt like nobody wanted to do it,” Tackett said. “We need to have everyone one hundred percent on board. We need everything out of everyone every Friday night.”
Despite facing a tough 4A opponent in Boyd County, West Carter pushed themselves and never backed down. After a slow first half, the Comets’ offense came alive. A 33-yard touchdown pass from Hall to defensive back Kadin Thompson (1), followed by a rushing touchdown from running back Nathan Flannery (0), showcased the firepower West has in its arsenal. If they can focus that firepower, and maintain its intensity, the Comets believe this could be their year.
“A district championship is always on our minds,” Hall stated confidently.
Contact the writer at news@cartercountytimes.com
West Carter quarterback Hayden Hall (15) prepares to pass the ball. (Photo by Brayleigh Boggs, Carter County Times) 
West Carter quarterback Hayden Hall (15, senior) hands the ball off to running back Nathan Flannery (0, senior) during a preseason matchup against Boyd County last week. (Photo by Brayleigh Boggs, Carter County Times)
