HERMITAGE, Ark. – As the Hermitage Senior High Football team gears up for the 2024 season, new head coach Tyler Caruthers is optimistic about the team’s potential, especially with the leadership of four standout seniors. Coach Caruthers, taking over the helm this year, is excited about the group of 12 players—the most the team has had in recent years—and is eager to see what they can achieve in Arkansas’s 8-Man Classification.
Leading the Hermits this season are seniors Carter Curtis, Trai Rowell, Oscar Martinez, and Drelen Marshall. Each of these players is expected to play a crucial role on both sides of the ball.
“Carter Curtis will be a force for us at both running back and middle linebacker. He’s physical, fast, and always plays hard,” said Caruthers. “Trai Rowell brings a lot of talent as a tight end with great hands and route-running skills. He’ll also be key on defense.”
Oscar Martinez, new to the sport but already making an impression, will line up as a wide receiver and defensive back. “Oscar is a natural athlete with excellent hands and body control,” noted Caruthers. “He’s going to be an asset in our passing game.”
Drelen Marshall will handle the dual responsibilities of Offensive Guard and Outside Linebacker. “Drelen’s athleticism will help us create running lanes on offense and disrupt the opposition’s backfield on defense,” Caruthers explained.
Sophomore quarterback Carson Curtis will be at the forefront of the Hermit offense, along with juniors Evan Etue and Aiden Thornton who will round out the offensive line. Caruthers has high expectations for this group. “Carson’s arm and athletic ability will be key to opening up our offense, while Evan and Aiden bring physicality and intelligence to our line, allowing us to be more versatile in our offensive schemes,” said the coach.
The team’s receiving corps will be bolstered by Jake Clay, Eric Hernandez, and Jeremy Keller, all of whom will play crucial roles in both the passing game and on defense. “These guys are smart, reliable route runners, and they catch the football well,” Caruthers remarked.
Defensively, Coach Caruthers highlighted the contributions of Connor Knuckles and James Ates. “They’ll be pivotal in shutting down the opposing team’s running game,” he said.
With the season fast approaching, Coach Caruthers is eager to see the Hermits in action. “We have a great group of young men who work really hard and are very tough. I’m excited to get our season started soon. Go Hermits!”
