Entering his fifteenth season as head coach of East High School’s football program, Marques Hayes reflects on the team’s trajectory and the significance of continuity in high school athletics.
The roster retains several key contributors from last year’s successful campaign, including Lawrence Cherry Jr., Terrell Kareem Jr., Emmanuel Jefferson, Sean Echols and Timothy Tate. Since February, the group has been immersed in a structured regimen of drills, conditioning and team‑building exercises in the weight room, laying a foundation for the upcoming schedule.
Building on Last Year’s Momentum
Hayes expressed confidence that the work done in the off‑season will translate into on‑field performance, noting that the team posted two playoff victories a year ago and aims to add to that record. The coaching staff’s focus on chemistry and execution is intended to keep the momentum alive as the new season approaches.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, the program benefits from strong community support and the resources of Akron Public Schools, which have partnered with local media outlets such as the Akron Beacon Journal to amplify the team’s story. As the first game draws nearer, the excitement among players and fans alike continues to grow.