A Growing Team for Homeschool Football in Mississippi
The Meridian Flyers football team entered its second season with a clear mission: to give homeschool students in East Central Mississippi the chance to play organized football while growing in their Christian faith. The program operates under the Meridian Flyers Athletic Association, a Christian‑based organization that seeks to shape young men of character as much as athletes.
The team was founded by a group of fathers who wanted a competitive outlet for their children. Head coach Ryan Hanner, who also serves as a minister, blends on‑field strategy with daily devotion, using each practice as an opportunity to spread the gospel and to instill values of integrity, humility and teamwork.
Competing in the Mid‑South Christian Athletic Association, the Flyers now face opponents in both north and south divisions, marking the first year the league has organized teams that way. The league’s eight‑man format makes the game faster and more accessible, and the Flyers remain the only homeschool football squad in the immediate region.
Interest has surged, with new players joining from seventh, eighth and ninth grades across the area. Volunteers devote countless hours to coaching, logistics and mentorship, ensuring that the program stays afloat despite limited resources.
The Flyers aim to extend their reach beyond the current catchment area, hoping to attract families in neighboring counties who have yet to hear about the opportunity. Their ultimate goal is to contend for a conference championship while preserving the Christian principles that define the team’s culture.
Practices take place on the historic Hickory field behind the Hickory Gym, and home games are hosted at East Central Community College, giving the team a respectable venue for community support. The organization welcomes any homeschooled student or student whose school does not field a football program, offering a pathway to athletic participation and personal growth.