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By Noah Patheja

The Springwood Wildcats are preparing to play Evangel Academy in the AISA 8-man state championship on Thursday, and some of the Wildcats come from just across the state line in Troup County.

While some players transfer to Springwood from bigger local schools like Valley High, some of the players come from all over the world.

Six players on the Wildcats came to the program from Troup County, and they’re excited to have the chance to play in a championship game.

The Pearson brothers, Dallas and Colt, joined the program in sixth grade after attending Rosemont Elementary.

“I’m pretty excited,” Dallas said.

“It’s a first time experience for the both of us. To play for a championship is pretty cool considering where we’ve been in the past.”

“I’m happy about it,” Colt said. “I never expected to be playing in a state championship here. I just thought it was a funny thought, but now we’re actually doing it.”

Both brothers transferred for educational reasons and to get playing time. It’s also their first year playing football.

Springwood running back and linebacker Cooper Key is from LaGrange, and he’s also looking forward to the opportunity to play in a state championship.

“I came to Springwood in sixth grade,” Key said.

“My brother started coming here, and my parents just really liked it here. My oldest sister also came here. I’m really excited about the state championship, but I’m also nervous. It’s not something Springwood gets to experience very often, so it’s a pretty big deal. This is my first year playing football. It’s pretty fun.”

Springwood receiver and defensive back Hayden Wolfe came to Springwood due to his father getting a job at Kia.

“I started playing last year,” Wolfe said.

“I have a concussion right now, so I can’t play. I’m excited that we’ve made it this far. I didn’t think I wanted to play football, but I ended up playing. It was one the greatest decisions I’ve made at Springwood. It’s a lot more fun playing football than any other sport.”

Springwood receiver and defensive back Asher Patel transferred to Springwood as a junior, and he’ll have a chance to win a championship as a senior.

“I heard about Springwood from a friend, and it was a better environment than what I experienced at LaGrange Academy. It’s insane to be able to play for a state championship because we didn’t even have a football team at LaGrange. I’m pumped to play in my first championship game ever.”

Springwood’s Chevyn Goode is also from Troup County, but he was unavailable for comment.