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The ending of 2023’s football season for the George Rogers Clark Cardinals may have left a bad taste, as the team dropped its final five contests – including a 34-9 defeat against Tates Creek in the first round of the 2024 KHSAA Class 6A playoffs. 

However, hope springs eternal as a new year begins. 

The Cards look to bounce back in 2024, returning many players along the way. 

“I’m excited for our team [and] excited to see all the hard work they put together in the offseason and how that comes together,” said George Rogers Clark Head Football Coach Joe Chirico. 

A solid group of seniors, including quarterback Sam Clements, defensive lineman Bryan Falls, linebacker Jones Howard, receiver Yeremiah Israel, receiver and defensive back Camahni John, and linemen Waylon Saunders and Kash White, will return. 

After an injury-riddled 2023 campaign, receiver Zaydin Turner also returns, as does senior Kamden McAlpin – who returns after missing the last two seasons. 

The Cards also feature solid players in junior lineman Cody Gibson, linebacker T.J. Hooten, defensive back Santi Guerrant, and offensive lineman Keenan Ogle – who has picked up offers from colleges such as Marshall University in West Virginia.

“I’d like to see us improve every game,” Chirico added. “[To] be a formidable team in October [is]…the goal. The team is buying in.” 

As in 2023, the Cards must contend with a formidable schedule. 

Among opponents will be Bryan Station, who finished last season as KHSAA Class 6A runner-up, 2023 KHSAA Class 6A semifinalist, and 2022 Class 5A Champion Frederick Douglass, as well as Belfry, Ballard, Franklin County, and more. 

“You kind of know what you’ve got to do and the work you [have] got to put in to be competitive in those games,” Chirico said.

Nevertheless, Chirico has stated that he’s excited about the future and the community’s support. 

“Come out and support our kids! Make it tough to beat an opposing team when they play us,” he said.