New Hampstead High School’s football program has emerged as a powerhouse in Savannah’s competitive sports landscape. Since its establishment in 2012 the Phoenix have soared to impressive heights building a reputation for excellence both on and off the field. The team’s remarkable journey from newcomer to formidable competitor has captivated fans and transformed Friday nights into must-see events.
Under the leadership of dedicated coaches and powered by talented student-athletes the Phoenix have developed a unique playing style that combines explosive offense with rock-solid defense. They’ve quickly become known for their innovative game strategies and unwavering team spirit making them a force to be reckoned with in Georgia’s high school football scene. With each passing season the program continues to grow strengthening its foundation and inspiring the next generation of young athletes.
History of New Hampstead High School Football Program
New Hampstead High School’s football program launched in 2012 as part of the school’s inaugural year. The Phoenix football team began competing in Georgia High School Association (GHSA) Region 3-AAAAA.
Notable Milestones and Achievements
The Phoenix secured their first playoff appearance in 2016 under head coach Thomas Tedder. Their breakthrough season in 2018 included 8 victories with notable wins against Windsor Forest Knights. The team clinched their first region championship in 2020 after defeating Islands High School 28-14.
- 2016: First GHSA state playoff berth
- 2018: Program record 8-win season
- 2019: Produced 3 Division I college signees
- 2020: Region 3-AAAAA Championship
- 2021: Advanced to second round of state playoffs
| Season | Record | Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 6-4 | First Playoff Appearance |
| 2018 | 8-2 | Best Regular Season Record |
| 2020 | 9-2 | Region Championship |
| 2021 | 7-4 | State Playoff Second Round |
Current Football Program Overview
The New Hampstead High School football program operates with a structured approach to player development through specialized coaching programs training facilities. The program emphasizes both athletic excellence academic achievement as core pillars of student-athlete development.
Coaching Staff and Philosophy
Head Coach Kyle Hockman leads the Phoenix football program with support from 8 assistant coaches specializing in offense defense special teams. The coaching philosophy centers on developing complete student-athletes through a multiple-spread offense defensive scheme that adapts to player strengths. Each position group receives dedicated technical training from coordinators who bring collegiate NCAA Division I coaching experience. The staff implements a data-driven approach to player development tracking performance metrics systematic skill progression throughout the season. This methodology has produced 15 college scholarship athletes since 2019.
Training Facilities and Resources
The Phoenix football program utilizes a 6000-square-foot athletic complex featuring a state-of-the-art weight room indoor practice facility turf field. Athletes access specialized equipment including:
- 24 power racks with Olympic lifting platforms
- Digital film review room with 85-inch displays
- Sports medicine center staffed by certified athletic trainers
- Recovery zone with hydrotherapy pools compression therapy units
- Position-specific training equipment resistance tools
The school partners with local sports medicine providers offering comprehensive health monitoring injury prevention services. A dedicated strength conditioning program runs year-round incorporating nutrition guidance personalized workout plans for each athlete.
Team Performance and Statistics
The New Hampstead Phoenix football team demonstrates consistent growth through impressive statistics and remarkable achievements on the field. Their performance metrics showcase the program’s dedication to excellence and player development.
Recent Season Highlights
The Phoenix posted an 8-3 record in the 2022 season, securing their third consecutive playoff appearance. The offense averaged 32.5 points per game while the defense limited opponents to 17.8 points. The team recorded 3,875 total offensive yards, including 2,450 rushing yards at 6.2 yards per carry. Their defense generated 25 turnovers throughout the season, featuring 15 interceptions and 10 fumble recoveries. Special teams contributed significantly with 4 kick return touchdowns and an 85% success rate on field goal attempts.
Key Player Accomplishments
Quarterback Sam Brown led the region with 2,200 passing yards and 25 touchdowns in 2022. Running back Marcus Wilson accumulated 1,450 rushing yards with 18 touchdowns, earning All-Region First Team honors. Wide receiver James Thompson caught 45 passes for 785 yards and 9 touchdowns. Defensive end Carlos Rodriguez recorded 12 sacks and 85 tackles, attracting attention from Division I programs. Safety Michael Lewis contributed 5 interceptions and 75 tackles, securing a spot on the All-State Second Team. The offensive line allowed only 12 sacks across 11 games, demonstrating exceptional protection skills.
| Statistical Category | 2022 Season Results |
|---|---|
| Total Wins | 8 |
| Points Per Game | 32.5 |
| Total Offense | 3,875 yards |
| Rushing Yards | 2,450 |
| Defensive Turnovers | 25 |
| Sacks Allowed | 12 |
Community Impact and Support
New Hampstead High School’s football program serves as a central pillar of community engagement in West Savannah. The program’s influence extends beyond the field through various initiatives connecting students, families local businesses.
Booster Club Activities
The Phoenix Football Booster Club organizes 12 annual fundraising events generating $75,000 for program development. Their signature events include a preseason golf tournament at Crosswinds Golf Club raising $15,000 annually for equipment upgrades. The club coordinates weekly team meals feeding 85 players volunteers prepare fresh healthy options in the school cafeteria. A dedicated group of 45 booster members maintains the stadium facilities runs the concession stands generates $5,000 per home game. The club also operates a merchandise store selling Phoenix gear featuring custom designed apparel accessories.
Local Partnerships
Corporate partnerships with 15 Savannah area businesses provide $125,000 in annual sponsorships program support. Savannah Sports Medicine offers free weekly injury assessments physical therapy services for players. Dick’s Sporting Goods supplies practice equipment uniforms through their community outreach program. Local restaurants including Carey Hilliard’s Zunzi’s provide pregame meals for the team throughout the season. The Home Depot Foundation contributed $50,000 for stadium improvements including new bleachers enhanced lighting in 2021. These partnerships enable sustained program growth while strengthening community ties.
Student-Athlete Development
New Hampstead High School’s football program implements a comprehensive student-athlete development strategy that balances athletic achievement with personal growth. The program focuses on creating well-rounded individuals through structured academic support and targeted athletic training.
Academic Excellence Programs
The Phoenix maintain strict academic standards through specialized study programs tailored to student-athletes’ schedules. Players participate in daily 90-minute study halls monitored by certified teachers specializing in core subjects. The program’s Academic Achievement Center features 25 computer stations equipped with educational software for standardized test preparation and subject tutoring. Student-athletes maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA through mandatory grade checks every three weeks. The academic support team includes 5 dedicated tutors who provide one-on-one assistance in mathematics, science and literature. Athletes who achieve Honor Roll status receive recognition at quarterly academic celebrations demonstrating the program’s commitment to scholarly excellence.
College Recruitment Success
New Hampstead’s recruitment program connects athletes with 75 college programs annually through showcase events and recruitment camps. The coaching staff maintains relationships with 30 Division I programs resulting in 15 scholarship offers since 2019. Players receive professional guidance in creating recruitment portfolios including game films highlight reels and academic transcripts. The program hosts 6 college recruitment events yearly attracting scouts from major conferences. A dedicated recruitment coordinator tracks player statistics manages college communications and organizes campus visits. The program’s database includes contact information for 200 college coaches across all NCAA divisions facilitating direct connections between players and recruiters.
Conclusion
New Hampstead High School’s football program stands as a shining example of athletic excellence and community impact in Savannah. The Phoenix’s remarkable journey from their 2012 inception to becoming a regional powerhouse showcases their dedication to developing well-rounded student-athletes.
Their state-of-the-art facilities comprehensive academic support and strong recruitment connections create an environment where players thrive both on and off the field. With impressive statistics sustained success and growing community engagement the program continues to shape the future of high school football in Georgia.
The New Hampstead Phoenix have built more than just a football program – they’ve created a legacy that will inspire generations of student-athletes to come.
