By Thomas Grant Jr.
It did not take long for Airport football to turn its attention to Region 4-4A play.
The Eagles ended non-region play with a 54-0 road loss to third-ranked Irmo. Despite the loss, the 4-2 record is still the best showing since 2015.
Now, Airport begins the quest to win their first region title since 2019 Friday at winless Aiken.
“We told the kids as soon as the Irmo game was over, the new season started,” Fidler said. “Before we even got on the bus, we shared with them the Aiken film and they started reviewing it right away. We know we needed to get to work right away since they had a bye week and have already been preparing for us.”
The Green Hornets (0-5) have had their struggles with just one winning season since 2009. They have lost 10 straight dating back to last season with the last victory coming, ironically, over Airport on Sept. 30, 2022.
This will be a much-improved Airport team given the production they have received on defense.
“No doubt in my mind you have to compliment the jobs that (linebackers) Bryant Cherry, Trey Neil and Montrelle Keys have done on defense,” Fidler said. “They play tough physical positions but do a great job of preparing and being ready to play each week.”
Offensively, Shiloh Perry has made a productive transition from the basketball court in his first season in football. He’s leading the team in receptions and paired with Avery Jones have helped improve the passing game.
A win Friday would be the first in region play for Airport since Oct. 1, 2021 against Midland Valley. The Eagles play host to the Vikings Oct. 6.
“Getting and staying healthy is key to getting back on the winning track,” Fidler said. “We know that not only this week, but every week going forward in region play our opponent has a bye week before they play us so our preparation as coaches and players needs to be laser focused.” The game will air on the Palmetto State Sports Network. The app is available for download or visiting the website https://network1sports.com/station/pssn
(Photo by GoFlshwinCom)
