The Lake Taylor Titans are on a mission to reclaim their status in the Class 3 state playoffs after a challenging season last year. Under the guidance of coach Hank Sawyer, the Titans rebounded from a disappointing 3-7 record to finish this season at 8-2, earning the top seed in Class 3 Region A.
Lake Taylor”s only losses this year were to the Eastern District champion Maury and Peninsula District champion Hampton. Sawyer, who has amassed nearly 250 career wins and three state championships over his tenure, reflected on the difficulties faced last season. “Not making the playoffs last year left the entire team with very bad empty feelings,” Sawyer stated. “We all questioned what was happening and what was the reason,” he added.
This Friday, Lake Taylor will host the eighth-seeded Colonial Heights, who ended their season with a 1-9 record, in a regional quarterfinal set for 7 PM. “I”m extremely honored to be the coach of a group of young men that accepted the challenge last December and dedicated themselves to get better,” Sawyer remarked about his team”s commitment. “Now it”s time to focus on second season, which is a one game season. Our goal is to try and be 1-0 this Friday night,” he emphasized.
In other playoff action, Class 5 Region A will feature the sixth-seeded Kempsville taking on the third-seeded Indian River, with a kickoff at 7 PM. The Braves are led by freshman quarterback Lord Malik Heru, who has thrown for over 2,000 yards and 23 touchdowns this season. His performance has been key to the team”s success, complemented by standout players like Arnell “Tre” Pugh, who has rushed for 717 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Kempsville, on the other hand, is looking to bounce back after a loss to Cox in their regular-season finale. They feature running back Robert Hughes Jr., who has amassed over 1,400 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, showcasing the team”s offensive capabilities.
As playoffs progress, all eyes will be on Lake Taylor as they strive to secure a state title, which would be their first since 2019. The Titans” determination and resilience are palpable as they prepare for the upcoming challenges on the gridiron.
