Courtesy of Jon Barash

For head coach Kirk Hoffman and the Alcovy Tigers, last year's 6-5 record was not a completely accurate reflection of the 2011 season. The Tigers started 0-2, but rebounded to win six out of seven, to finish with a 5-1 record in Region 3A-AAAA. The Tigers eventually lost to Tri-Cities in the first round of the state playoffs.

This season like so many other programs, GHSA reclassification will directly impact Alcovy. In 2012, the Tigers will move into Region 2-AAAAAA. Moving up in classification will be a challenge, but Hoffman feels there are some advantages with the move.

"There are quality teams in the new region," said an excited Hoffman about the move. "We are playing some teams that we haven't been able to schedule in two years."

Key players to lead this new effort are Cornell White, Curtiss Benton, Ryan Adams, Joaquin Ross and Marcus Williams. Hoffman will use these players in Alcovy's spread offense, which is mainly run out of the shotgun. Hoffman will look to add a wrinkle this season as he wants to run the ball more out of the spread.

Defensively, the Tigers will have multiple odd fronts as they seek to attack from all angles.

"So far this summer, the players and coaches have shown a commitment to excel on the field," said Hoffman. "After making the playoffs two of the last three years, this year's group of young men are working hard to return to the playoffs again this season."

For the Alcovy Tigers, the goals are simple: improve as a program as the year develops and compete for a state playoff berth.