We tell you everything you need to know about the 2025 Fitzgerald High School football team in this preview, including roster changes and what fans can expect from the Purple Hurricane this season.
2024 Season Stats
- Overall Record: 10-4
- Points Scored: 391
- Points Allowed: 278
Key Roster Losses
New Fitzgerald head football coach Wesley Tankersley kicks off his coaching campaign by having to replace several key players from last year’s offensive backfield, including running backs Oreian Bly, Antwan Doctor, Diontae Paschal, and Cam Johnson.
Randy Shavers, who played multiple positions over his high school career, including safety, tight end, and linebacker, graduated.
All-Region center Cason Brown, the anchor of the offensive line in 2024, will not return.
Defensive back Jason Ferguson, a GACA All-State defender last year and First Team All-Region selection, will be missed.
Key Players Returning
Fitzgerald returns two of its top offensive players from last year in junior wingback and defensive lineman Tyson King, who was a First Team All-Region selection last year, and senior quarterback, running back, and defensive back Victor Copeland, who was the 2024 Region Player of the Year. King and Copeland will be counted on to step up and lead the team in 2025.
On offense, wide receiver Nathan Cox is back. Senior defensive end Bryce Smith returns to the ‘Canes defensive front in 2025.
Watch for newcomer Jakiyen Robinson to have an opportunity to make an impact this season.
What to Expect From the Fitzgerald Purple Hurricane in 2025
Tankersley has taken over at Fitzgerald, and so far the new Purple Hurricane head coach likes what he has seen.
“This year’s squad has been working hard so far this summer getting adjusted to several new coaches and some new schemes, but they are learning quickly,” Tankersley said.
As far as what Tankersley anticipates from his new team, it’s pretty much in line with the standard Fitzgerald has always set.
“Our expectations are to have a chance to win every game that we play and to be one of the top teams in the state by the end of the year,” he said. “That’s the expectation here at Fitzgerald High School.”
2025 Season Prediction
Tankersley will have the Purple Hurricane up and running in 2025. Look for a 9-4 season.
Game to Watch
Season opener on Aug. 15 at Irwin County
