Central Private: 16 Returning Starters

Central Private head football coach Cole Holden is beginning his second season with the Redhawks, and he believes CP is ready to carry things to the next level. Holden previously served as head coach at Ben’s Ford and Tunica Academy.  He also coached at Oak Forest Academy.

Central Private ended the 2023 season strong with wins over Thrive Academy and Ascension Christian, which guaranteed the Redhawks a place in the playoffs.

The team has eight returning starters on offense and eight on defense. Team leader Aiden Pomerleau is back after a strong season last year.  He was the team leader in tackles and rushed for 600 yards.  He played both ways — fullback on offense and linebacker on defense.

His efforts made him Central Private’s iron man.  He serves as senior captain of the team.

Other key players include:

• Jacob Weaver who is transitioning to the offensive line. He previously played fullback. He is also senior captain of the team.

• Clayton Kimble is a receiver and outside linebacker.  He is a team captain.  

• Peyton Varnado, who was 1st team All-District last year, is a sophomore who will play linebacker and offensive line.  He is also a team captain.

• Coach Brennon Courville will serve as defensive coordinator.  Mike Dumiller will be responsible for quarterbacks and the secondary.  Luke James will be offensive coordinator. Ben Cobb will coach receivers. Baylor Watson will coach linebackers. Ross Levy will coach the offensive line.

The 2024 season will present new opponents and a new look, Coach Cole Holden said.

North Iberville is new to the schedule and will present a big challenge.  They are very athletic.

Central Private will play Ascension Christian once again.  Last year, Ascension Christian beat them in the jamboree, only to have Central Private win late in the season.  Gueydan is again on the schedule. Last year, that game gave the Redhawks their biggest victory.

J. S. Clark is new to the schedule. The game against Springhill, a 3A school, will be a step up for the Redhawks, as will Ben Franklin High School from New Orleans, a 5A school.  A victory in that game would give Central Private extra power points, which are important for reaching the playoffs.

The season will round out with Varnado, Thrive Academy, Kentwood and Southern Lab.

Kentwood and Southern Lab always have outstanding teams.