For all the changes within the Meigs County High School football program — a new head coach, four new assistants (including offensive and defensive coordinators), a move up in TSSAA classification to compete against a new group of region foes, and even a new stadium to play in — the one thing that remains unchanged are the results on the field.
At a program that has averaged 11 wins the previous seven seasons, new head coach Tommy Bunch — who as a longtime assistant and former Meigs County player understands the community’s expectations for the Tigers — is not only maintaining that pace but quietly putting together one of the Chattanooga area’s most impressive 2023 seasons to this point.
A big reason for that is a group of 13 seniors, with 10 of them starters. They are led by quarterback and safety Ethan Meadows, who has set a remarkable example of toughness and dedication for the rest of the team to follow.
“There was a lot of skepticism last spring, and rightfully so,” Bunch said. “Things had been so steady for so long, and then we had a lot of change all at once, so I get it that some people wanted to write us off. I think the kids heard some of the doubters and took it personally.
“The rest of our team would lay themselves on the line for Ethan because they respect him so much. They see all the extra work he does and how much the program means to him, and they want to match it. That extra effort and toughness has been what’s defined us this season.”