MAGOFFIN COUNTY, Ky. (WYMT) – Magoffin County lost the first four games of the 2023 season, but turned the tables late in the regular season to finish third in Class 3A, District 8.

“Even though 4-7 (overall) doesn’t look like anything, the playoffs were a big deal,” said John DeRossett, head coach of the Magoffin County football team. “We went to Estill and won that game. We won two district games. That was the first time we’ve done that in a long time.”

Protecting their bodies has been a focus during the preseason, and the Hornets hope their physical health will set them up for success in November.

“Last year we had a lot of injuries,” said senior tight end and linebacker Trey Rudd. “Our best players were out for a couple of weeks, and that hurt us. This year everyone has been cautious and everyone is staying healthy. I think that will help us.”

DeRossett says the Hornets still have depth issues. First-season quarterback Aden Barnett is gone, so the Hornets are turning to junior Dayson Burchett to fill that role.

DeRossett says protecting Burchett will be the team’s strength.

“They’re a pretty physical bunch,” DeRossett said. “Magoffin County has some big kids at that school. We’re starting to get those guys out. We’ve got a offensive line that probably averages about 300 pounds, and those aren’t weak kids. They can move and they’re agile.”

This year is DeRossett’s third season in Salyersville, so what does he hope the Hornets will accomplish?

“Well, sir, I’d like to win the state championship,” DeRossett said. “That should be every coach’s goal. Again, we want to put together these good practices one after the other. We just want to have fun playing football, but at the same time, it’s fun to win.”

Magoffin County opens the season on the road against Montgomery County on Saturday, August 24th at 7:30 p.m.

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