Collins High School Appoints New Head Football Coach

Collins, MS, July 30, 2025

News Summary

Collins High School has appointed Randy Craft as the new head football coach. With experience as the defensive coordinator at Hattiesburg High, Craft aims to enhance the Tigers’ fundamentals and teamwork. The team is focused on improving performance and building character under Craft’s leadership, with goals of achieving a top two finish in their region and hosting a playoff game. The football season kicks off against Sumrall High School, where Craft’s strategies will be put to the test.

Collins, MS – Collins High School has officially appointed Randy Craft as the new head football coach, marking a fresh start for the Tigers as they prepare for the upcoming season. Craft brings with him a wealth of experience, having served as the defensive coordinator at Hattiesburg High School during the previous season. With this position, he gained extensive knowledge and coaching strategies under Tony Vance, the esteemed head coach known for being the winningest coach in Hattiesburg history.

Senior player Chikezie McLaurin has shared confidence in Craft, noting his ability to enhance the team’s fundamentals and discipline. Under Craft’s leadership, the team is expected to focus not just on skill improvement but also on building character and teamwork. The new coach places emphasis on player leadership, recognizing the important role it plays in shaping the team’s success this season.

One of the key leaders named by Coach Craft is TJ Barnes, who made significant contributions in the previous season with over 700 total yards and eight rushing touchdowns. Craft is working closely with Barnes to elevate his abilities, specifically concentrating on increasing his explosiveness. The team’s coaching staff aims to leverage Barnes’s vocal presence among teammates to foster a more cohesive unit that can compete effectively in their upcoming games.

As Collins High prepares to embrace Craft’s strategic approach, the players are aligning with the new expectations set forth by the coach. Craft has noted the team’s promising energy and eagerness for change, a crucial factor in their development. This season, the primary goals for the Tigers are to improve each week, finish in the top two of their region, and secure the chance to host a playoff game. If the team meets these benchmarks, they aim to contend for the region championship.

The Collins Tigers will kick off their 2025 football season on Friday, August 29, at 7 p.m., with a match against Sumrall High School. The first game of the season presents an opportunity for the team to implement Craft’s strategies and show the progress they have made during their training.

Background and Coaching Philosophy

Randy Craft’s transition from defensive coordinator to head coach signifies a major step in his career. His mentorship under Tony Vance has provided him with rich insights into the game, allowing him to adopt a comprehensive approach to coaching. Craft’s belief in developing players not only athletically but also as leaders reflects a modern coaching philosophy aimed at achieving both individual and collective success.

Future Outlook

With the fresh leadership of Randy Craft, the Collins Tigers are looking to build on their past experiences and improve their performance through disciplined practice and strategic gameplay. The focus on leadership within the team is intended to cultivate a strong foundation for future seasons while aiming for immediate success this year. As anticipation grows for their first game against Sumrall High School, the community is optimistic about the impact of Craft’s coaching on the Tigers’ performance.

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Additional Resources

• Gamecocks Online: Geoff Collins Joins Gamecock Football Coaching Staff
• Wikipedia: South Carolina Gamecocks Football
• AJC: Former Georgia Tech Football Coach Joins Staff at South Carolina
• Google Search: Geoff Collins
• Football Scoop: Geoff Collins at South Carolina
• Google Scholar: South Carolina Football
• On3: Shane Beamer Explains Decision to Add Geoff Collins
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Geoff Collins
• 247Sports: South Carolina Gamecocks Football – Geoff Collins
• Google News: South Carolina Football

Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER

HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.