Andrew Jackson Academy is set to bring back 8‑man football for the 2026‑27 school year, ending a two‑year experiment at the Class A level. The decision reflects Coach Andy Palmer’s belief that the smaller format will give the Warriors a competitive edge, especially given the school’s enrollment size within the division.
Palmer, who also oversees the softball program, highlighted the advantages of the 8‑man format, noting that it will allow the team to field a larger, more versatile group of players while maintaining a high level of competition. The coaching staff is confident that the new structure will showcase the talent already present on the roster.
A fresh start on the gridiron
The Warriors return six offensive starters and nine defensive starters, providing a solid foundation for the upcoming season. Senior Ollie Barnes will continue at running back and wide receiver, while senior Eli Mathys anchors the offensive line. Senior Jason Tucker returns at tight end and Brad Hightower rejoins at running back, giving the offense proven depth.
Junior Everett Ulmer and junior London Johnson are slated to see increased playing time, with Ulmer moving to fullback and Johnson shifting to wide receiver. On defense, senior defensive backs Jaxon Tucker and Brad Hightower will lead the secondary, supported by seniors Noah Riddle and Brison Riddle, who will also contribute at linebacker.
Newcomers to the program include sophomore Evan Mathys, freshman quarterback Will Barnes, freshman quarterback‑linebacker Braedon Wilcox, sophomore wide receiver Cody Guider, and additional freshmen Robert Stevenson, Bryce Drawdy, Nathan King and Mitch Ott. These players will join the returning core and are expected to add depth and fresh energy to both offense and defense.
Beyond the gridiron
Andrew Jackson Academy will field varsity teams in basketball, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball and softball during the 2026‑27 school year. Head basketball coach Josh Barnes begins his 16th season, while cheer coach Stephanie Brandt and her assistant Danielle Tuten lead the cheer program. Baseball coach Jason Mathys recently earned Region Coach of the Year honors in the SCISA 2‑A region, and softball coach Andy Palmer enjoyed a successful season under the guidance of assistant Monica Beard.
The Warriors open August with a scrimmage against Orangeburg Christian before launching their regular season against Jefferson Davis on August 21. The coaching staff, which also includes Randy Rentz, Bill Johnson and Robbie Williams on the junior varsity, will be supported by volunteers such as Tanner Chassereau and Walker Terry, who were honored with the Ben Fender Award at the recent awards banquet.
Recognition and community
The school community celebrated several individual achievements, including the shared Ben Fender Award for Tanner Chassereau and Walker Terry and the Allison Carter Award earned by CJ Ulmer. Head of School Gill Hackney and Assistant Head of School Susan Kinsey continue to provide leadership, while Booster Club President Jana Chassereau helps coordinate support for all athletic programs.