The Saluda High School Tigers are preparing for the 2026 football season with a solid foundation: six returning offensive starters and eight defensive stalwarts who helped the squad finish 6‑6 and reach the second round of the AA state playoffs last year.
All‑Region Honors and Special Teams Recognition
Four Tigers earned spots on the All‑Region 2‑AA team — Ericson Vasquez, Tristan Daniels, Jahmeer Myers and Ceddion Springs — and Vasquez was additionally crowned Region 2 Special Teams Player of the Year, underscoring the individual talent that will anchor the upcoming campaign.
Limited Spring Work, but a Focus on Depth
Because many players participated in baseball and track, spring practice was abbreviated. Head coach Greg Woerner used those constrained sessions to experiment with younger athletes, aiming to build a deeper roster that can withstand the rigors of a full season.
Summer Scrimmages and Season Opener
The Tigers will test their chemistry in a pair of summer scrimmages: a road game at Woodland on August 6, followed by a home matchup against Gilbert on August 10. The regular season kicks off on August 21 when Saluda hosts Abbeville in front of a home crowd eager to see the new-look team.
This year also brings a structural change, as Saluda joins a new Region 4‑AA that includes defending state champion Strom Thurmond and longtime rival Pelion. The realignment promises tougher matchups and fresh storylines as the Tigers aim to climb the standings.