Decatur High School Football Season Preview

With nearly the entire roster returning from a young squad last season, the Decatur Red Raiders are preparing to turn youth into grit in 2025. Head Coach John Ritter is emphasizing mental and physical toughness as the team looks to compete with a new edge. Offseason Focus The Red Raiders have one mission this offseason: “Relentlessly compete—no matter the circumstances.” The coaching staff is demanding a higher standard, focusing on: Building mental toughness Becoming physically dominant Changing the team’s style of play through intensity and effort Instilling a mindset of doing the little things right Special Offseason Events The summer calendar includes key team-building and competitive events: 7-on-7 at the University of North Alabama – July 16 Competition Day at Decatur High School – July 8 Coaching Staff Updates Two high-impact coaching additions bring new energy and experience: Dan Styles (from Madison Academy) – Defensive Coordinator Brian Dickerson (from Prattville) – Wide Receivers Coach With these additions and a 95% returning roster, the Red Raiders are building a foundation for consistency and toughness. Players to Watch Decatur has several returning contributors ready to step into the spotlight: Quaylen Hampton – Junior WR Cayden Oliver – Senior LB Casey Justice – Junior LB Isaiah Allen – Junior RB Devin Haley – Junior RB Jason Tennison – Junior DL Each of these players played a major role in 2024 and has taken huge strides in the offseason, showing maturity, leadership, and a relentless work ethic. Nutrition & Recovery The program is committed to performance and recovery. Players receive: Protein shakes Breakfast meals Rehydration products Five days a week, after morning workouts, this nutrition support complements their heavy lifting and speed training. Coaching Perspective The 2025 coaching motto is simple but powerful: “Be great at the little things. Be good better.” Expect a relentless focus on fundamentals, detail, and elevating execution in all three phases. Challenges Ahead Youth: Only 14 seniors return to lead a still-young roster Depth: Thin depth at the offensive line and defensive back Injuries: Reintegrating key players returning from season-ending injuries in 2024 Coach Ritter knows the path to success will require grit, leadership, and a unified mindset.