2025 Football Preview: Nanih Waiya Warriors

Football season is back in Nanih Waiya, and the Warriors are ready to hit the field. After a hard-fought year in 2024, this group comes in with a mix of returning leaders and new faces eager to prove themselves. Practices have been full of energy, and the community is already buzzing about Friday nights under the lights. The Warriors have a reputation for playing tough, and this season looks like it’ll be no different.

Coach Courtney had this to say about what he has been most pleased with during the summer from the team: "Effort from the boys. They have practiced hard." That effort, he explained, is being matched with valuable game experience. "We don't have to start from scratch teaching the guys what we want to get done. Experience and effort has been big for us."

Depending on the outlet or social media account, Nanih Waiya is projected to be a top-five team in Class 1A this year. Under Coach Courtney’s leadership, the Warriors have claimed the only two state championships in program history, setting a standard that keeps expectations sky-high. Addressing the preseason hype, Courtney said, "The boys know that they have to work hard every day to see any of that come to fruition. I know they see it, and the team knows that they are expected to be good because of the colors they are wearing." The Warriors are aiming to build on last year’s momentum, which included their first playoff win since 2020.

Senior offensive lineman Grant Kitchens, who has committed to play at the University of Southern Mississippi, is eager to see the progress up front. "I'm ready to see how our guys up front are coming along." As a veteran leader, Kitchens added this about personally setting the example, "I have to go out there and play the best I can, and show how much effort we give every play. No matter what we play as hard as we can."

Senior quarterback Kade Massey is approaching his final season with both excitement and reflection. "I look forward to playing alongside my teammates, some of which I have played with since 5th grade, playing to the best of my ability, and putting all out there." Looking back on his journey, Massey said, "It's weird to think about. It seems like just a week ago when I was lining up as a receiver my tenth grade year. It's exciting to know that we have made it this far. We have put in hard work all summer and have put in work." His message to Warrior fans is simple but strong: "We are going to play to the best of our ability, and we are going to represent the 'NW' on the side of our helmet as best we can."

With proven leaders, talented newcomers, and a community that packs the stands every Friday night, the Warriors have all the ingredients for another memorable run. The road ahead won’t be easy, but Nanih Waiya has never shied away from a challenge. If effort, experience, and tradition mean anything, the Warriors could once again find themselves in the thick of the 1A title conversation.

The Warriors kick off the 2025 season on August 29th against Vardaman. A few matchups to look forward to is October 3rd against Leake Academy which is the Homecoming game, October 24th verses Ethel is senior night, and the always much anticipated Cross Creek Rivalry game against Noxapater will be October 9th at Tiger Stadium. All game times are at 7pm.