Central football looking to show its ‘Pride and Tradition’ in 2024

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Central finished 5-6 in 2023, its worst season since 2014. The Bobcats went through a coaching change and are hoping Kevin Lane can lead them back to being a powerhouse.

“You speak to the kids about the history of Central High School,” said Lane. “Being one of the oldest high schools or the oldest in the city of Knoxville. You talk about our hashtag or our motto. It’s ‘Pride and Tradition.’ We use the word commitment right now. It’s being committed to something and that’s our program and being committed to be a good teammate. Being a good player is after you become a good teammate. I think that’s just the buy-in.”

Lane has full trust in his quarterback. Kaden Long is just a sophomore, but his head coach is entrusting him to help control the offense.

“Every time the doors are open, he’s there,” explained Lane. “Every time they’re not open, he’s probably there. Every chance he gets to study the playbook, he does. Every chance he gets to meet with our offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach, he does it.”

Fortunately for Long, he will have some help. The team’s strength is at its skill positions.

“Our skill players [are really good],” said Central offensive lineman Jake Holbert. Our quarterback is really good. Our running backs are good. The wide receivers are really good.”

The Bobcats also believe in their head coach.

“I think we’ll be a lot more disciplined this year,” said Long. “A lot quicker pace. A lot better coaching like players will be more coachable. Better discipline.”

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Central will open the season at home against Fulton on Friday.

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