Latest news with #PetalHighSchool
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Mississippi State Lands Big-Leg Kicker Gunnar Gillentine
Mississippi State Lands Big-Leg Kicker Gunnar Gillentine originally appeared on Athlon Sports. It's not every day that a kicker makes headlines, but Mississippi State fans should take notice because this one could be a difference-maker. Advertisement The Bulldogs have landed a commitment from Gunnar Gillentine, a rising senior specialist from Petal (Miss.) High School, who announced his decision after a string of standout performances on the national camp circuit. Known for his booming leg and impressive consistency, Gillentine adds a crucial piece to Mississippi State's 2027 recruiting class. The 6-foot, 185-pound kicker has turned heads with his precision and power, most notably at the Texas Spring Showcase, where he earned a score of 118, a mark that placed him among the top performers in attendance. According to sources close to the program, Jeff Lebby and special teams coordinator Cliff Odom wasted no time once they saw the potential Gillentine brings. Unlike some spring targets who were asked to wait, Mississippi State moved quickly to secure Gillentine. With field position and kicking becoming increasingly vital in SEC play, his addition could pay dividends on Saturdays. 'I'm going to be working in the weight room a lot this offseason,' said Gillentine. 'I want my leg to be as strong as it can possibly be… I know that when the ball is turning over, it can come with a lot more distance.' Advertisement Mississippi State ranked No. 92 nationally in field goal percentage last season and struggled with punt placement throughout SEC play. Gillentine's arrival signals a shift in focus to improving those often-overlooked details. Special teams may not be the flashiest side of the ball, but it's the kind that wins tight games. And as Bulldog fans know all too well, in the SEC, every inch matters. Related: Top Four-Star Recruit Makes Final Decision on Mississippi State Related: Mississippi State Lands Three-Star Defensive Lineman Following Official Visit This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 4, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Petal coach receives 2024 High School Broyles Award
PETAL, Miss. (WHLT) – Leaders with Petal High School announced that Offensive Line Coach Matt 'Pete' Holeman was named the recipient of the 2024 High School Broyles Award. The award recognizes the top high school assistant football coach in every participating state. Petal High leaders said the award highlights Holeman's dedication, leadership, and lasting impact on the Petal Panther football program, as well as his unwavering commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field. Hattiesburg High welcomes new head football coach 'Coach Holeman's passion for coaching and commitment to students is truly exceptional. We are so Panther Proud to see him recognized for his impact on our football program and the district,' said Dr. Matthew Dillon, Superintendent of Schools. The Broyles Award was established in 1996 to honor the legacy of Coach Frank Broyles. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
