This year, the Gurdon High School football program is embarking on one of its most ambitious seasons in recent memory. Known across Arkansas for its grit and legacy, Gurdon’s football team, the Go-Devils, is making significant strides to solidify its place among the state’s top-tier programs. As competition intensifies throughout the region, Gurdon is leaving no stone unturned in its preparation. From upgraded offseason conditioning to strategic coaching changes, the entire program is aligned in its mission: to dominate the field this fall.
The Mindset Shift: From Rebuilding to Reigning
Under the leadership of Head Coach Marcus Caffey, now entering his third year at the helm, the Go-Devils are transitioning from a rebuilding phase into a team with serious postseason aspirations. Coach Caffey has instilled a “championship or nothing” mindset, emphasizing not just physical development but mental toughness and consistency both on and off the field.
“We’re not looking to just keep up anymore,” Caffey stated during a preseason media day. “Our goal is to outwork and outlast every opponent, and that starts in the summer.”
The coaching staff, composed of both returning faces and newly hired specialists, echoed this sentiment. Assistant Coach Duane Sanders emphasized the importance of culture. “Great football isn’t just about the plays. It’s about the belief in one another, the accountability, and the commitment that starts the minute the last season ends.”
Investing in Player Development: The Offseason Program
Much of Gurdon’s offseason efforts focused on enhancing athletic performance. The school board approved funding for upgraded weight room equipment and enlisted the help of a certified strength and conditioning coach for the first time in program history. The result has been one of the most structured and rigorous training programs ever assembled for the team.
Key components of the training include:
- Speed and Agility Drills: Run by former collegiate track athletes, focused on reducing 40-yard dash times and improving lateral quickness.
- Strength Training Cycles: Periodized lifting regimens incorporating Olympic lifts, core strength, and endurance.
- Nutrition Guidance: Players now meet monthly with a nutritionist to build meal plans that support performance and recovery.
The effort has already paid off. Senior linebacker Malik Jenkins added 15 pounds of muscle in the offseason and cut his shuttle time by over half a second — improvements that scouts are already noticing.
The Strategic Game Plan: X’s and O’s
Equally impressive is the team’s tactical evolution. The offensive coordinator, Coach Tyson Harrelson, has introduced a hybrid West Coast spread offense to take advantage of the team’s speed and quarterback IQ. This modernized system promises to give opposing defenses a lot to handle, especially with junior quarterback Brayden Miller returning as the starter.
“Brayden’s got accuracy, composure, and vision,” Coach Harrelson shared. “With the right tempo, our offense can put up points against any defense in the state.”
The defense isn’t being left behind, either. Defensive Coordinator Lisa Greer, one of the few female coordinators in Arkansas high school football, has overhauled the defensive scheme. Gurdon will run a variable 3-4 defense designed to switch between man and zone coverages fluidly. Already, the adjustments have shown promise in scrimmages.
Youth Movement and Veteran Leadership
While the Go-Devils are welcoming a number of promising underclassmen, they are also being anchored by reliable veterans. The blend of enthusiastic youth with seasoned leadership is a formula ripe for competitive success. Players like Malik Jenkins, along with senior wideout Casey Bell, have taken younger players under their wing.
Coach Caffey has implemented a mentoring system where each varsity player is paired with a JV athlete for skills training, personal development lessons, and support. “We’re building more than just a team,” Caffey explained. “We’re building a football family.”
Community Support and Facilities Upgrades
The Gurdon community continues to be one of the most loyal bases of support in the state. This season, their passion is being rewarded with tangible improvements surrounding the football program. A new scoreboard has been installed at the stadium, and the fieldhouse received renovations that include updated locker rooms and enhanced training areas.
Boosters and local businesses have stepped in, funding much of the upgrades and volunteering countless hours. The Gurdon Alumni Sports Foundation held a fundraiser that exceeded its goal by 40%, contributing to new helmets and safer padding throughout the facility.
Special Teams: The Difference Maker
Often overlooked, special teams may just be the X-factor for this year’s squad. Special Teams Coach Ruben White has brought in new drills focused on directional punting, onside kick formations, and return strategies. The Go-Devils are also practicing situations for trick plays and surprise fake punts, hoping to catch opponents off guard during critical moments.
Senior kicker Marco Valenzuela stands out as a potential game-changer. With a 45-yard field goal range and a kickoff record that consistently places opponents inside their own 20, Valenzuela provides both scoring and field position advantages.
Preseason Challenges and Goals Ahead
While the Go-Devils are prepared, the road ahead isn’t easy. Their division includes state powerhouses like Prescott and Harmony Grove. These programs have deep benches and histories of postseason success, but Gurdon is not shying away from the challenge.
“Every week is going to be a test of who wants it more,” said linebacker Jenkins. “But we’re not worried. We’re ready.”
Gurdon begins the season with two non-conference openers meant to evaluate depth and refine strategy. Both matchups will be critical for setting the tone and making adjustments early in the campaign. The coaching staff has already identified key success metrics:
- Reducing turnovers per game by 35%
- Improving third-down conversion rates to over 50%
- Allowing fewer than 20 points per game defensively
The Bigger Picture: Building a Legacy
Even with high expectations, the Go-Devils are thinking beyond just one season. Coach Caffey has initiated outreach programs at the elementary school level to engage young athletes early. A summer football camp hosted by players and coaches drew over 120 kids this year — a record turnout.
“It’s not just about 2024,” Caffey emphasized. “We’re laying the framework for sustained excellence. For creating a tradition where Gurdon football means something year after year.”
The team’s dedication, strategy, and community support are clear indicators that something special is being built in southwest Arkansas. While the scoreboard will eventually tell the story, the commitment shown by every player, coach, and fan reveals a team that isn’t just preparing for a season — they’re preparing for greatness.
This fall, all eyes will be on Gurdon. The Go-Devils aren’t just ready to compete. They’re ready to lead.