Extra Point Previews: Rehobeth Rebels

REHOBETH, Ala (WDHN) — In years when the AHSAA reclassifies and rearranges regions, it can pose challenges for many teams, but few are as affected as the Rehobeth Rebels, who move up to 6A, making them the only Wiregrass team in 6A Region 2.

“I think our closest region game is an hour and 45 minutes away,” said head coach Toby Greene. “So it’s a business trip. We’ll go make a day out of it, enjoy a day out of school, and just do the best we can with it. We’re excited about going to 6A. I know it sounds crazy moving up, but it gives us a chance to play some people, travel a little bit, get to play in great stadiums like the Cramton Bowl and Wetumpka. Russell County spent millions of dollars refurbishing their stadium, so it gives our kids some excitement and more exposure. We’re truly playing big school ball.”

As Rehobeth moves into 6A, they’ll look to some new names to step up on offense. They are particularly excited about the potential of sophomore running back Tevin James.

“He’s got a little speed to him, a different gear,” Greene said. “He’s going to catch the ball, run the ball, and we’re really going to try to give him the ball on offense.”

James will be running behind an offensive line led by senior Bear Mullins. On defense, leadership starts in the trenches with senior defensive lineman Gabriel Mendez, who is expected to be a strong contributor this season.

Will Martin was a force for the Rebel defense last year, and he’s been working hard to improve this offseason.

“He’s participated in a lot of camps and has garnered a lot of college interest,” Greene noted. “He’s a rising junior who has a chance to do something special one day and is a leader on our defense.”

Senior defensive back Tyshaun Austin also looks to benefit from playing against the higher-octane passing attacks at the 6A level.

“He’s got a chance to maybe get looked at, depending on how he does,” Greene said. “Moving into 6A means a lot more passing, a lot more wide-open offenses. The DBs will probably enjoy 6A.”

Toby Greene enters year two in this stint with the Rebels, and he’s feeling more comfortable with the team, which he believes is reflected in his players.

“I think the players are more comfortable with my style of coaching,” Greene explained. “They’ve really bought in and done a good job with what we demand in the weight room, on the practice field, and in how we conduct ourselves. Community leadership is starting to come through. Maybe we’ll look a little different this year than we did last year. I’m learning to adapt to that myself. We have great kids—they always have a great work ethic and show up to work every day. Hopefully, that part never changes, but there’s certainly less transition this year.”

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