Coach Jack Harris: “We’re not talking about being down — We’re talking about championships”

DAWSON – Jack Harris isn’t interested in hearing about a rebuild.

The new Terrell Academy head football coach knows the chatter. The Eagles lost several key seniors and have a new man in charge after longtime head coach Bill Murdock stepped down to focus on his duties as headmaster. But Harris is challenging his players — and coaches — to raise expectations, not lower them.

“Some people are thinking we are going to be down this year, but I don’t think so,” Harris said. “We’re not talking about being down. We’re talking about championships.”

That’s been his message to his staff from Day One.

“If we’re not talking about championships, then what goals are we working toward?” Harris said.

Harris, who has moved to Terrell Academy from Terrell County, said fans shouldn’t expect a dramatic change in the Eagles’ identity. While Murdock, who led Terrell to an 11-2 season in 2021, built his reputation on offense, Harris brings a defensive mind to the job — but insists the transition will be seamless.

“Coach Murdock has been my friend for a long time,” Harris said. “I’m so grateful he gave me the opportunity to come back to Terrell Academy and coach football. Bill Murdock is an offensive genius. He knows the Xs and Os and how to put players in just the right formation. I’m more of a defensive guy, so really that might be the only difference between us.”

After three straight 6-5 seasons, the Eagles are aiming to return to the top tier of GIAA Class AA. Harris believes the team is on the right path, but admits there’s still work to do — especially in the weight room.

“We might need another year in the weight room to get where we really want to be,” he said. “But I love the effort and the way this group is buying in.”

The 2025 schedule doesn’t offer any time to ease into the season. Terrell Academy opens with three consecutive road games, starting with a tough test at Southwest Georgia Academy in Damascus. The Warriors reached the state championship game a year ago and will offer an immediate barometer for Harris’ squad.

Despite the early challenges, Harris is optimistic about the direction of the program.

“I think people are going to be surprised,” he said.