Introducing our WXXV Student Athlete of the Week, Gulfport’s Parker Nettles!

And then there was one! The Gulfport admirals are the last men standing on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and the entire south when it comes to high school football in Class 7A. Guiding them through history is their leader, signal caller, and our WXXV Student Athlete of the Week. Introducing you to Gulfport’s very own, Parker Nettles!

The Gulfport Admirals have reached double digits when it comes to their win streak, clinching their first South State Championship title since 1982. The Admiral football team does a ton of things right, but one thing that sets them apart is their preparation. 

Not only do they set themselves up for success when it comes to film, the weight room, and time on the practice field, but they’re also just plain talented too. In the month of November, the Admiral offense has been up at least 40 points every game outscoring every opponent at least 32 points. Quarterback Parker Nettles says they’re able to put up big numbers because their entire offense works together as a unit.

Now that the offense has their flowers, it’s time to give Parker his. In his South State title game against Brandon, Nettles was 15 for 18 with 228 passing yards, one passing touchdown and one rushing touchdown. Throughout his entire senior campaign, he’s thrown for over 2,500 yards, throwing at least 126 yards all thirteen games, with a .662 completion percentage and 22 total touchdowns. It’s obvious he gives it his all every Friday night, but what isn’t obvious is he didn’t start taking things seriously until the summer before his freshman year. All it took was confidence and guidance from Wyatt Davis at 601 Elite and dedication to his craft.

He has learned how to throw and make big plays, but what he’s gained on the field is far more than just physical strength. The quarterback role has taught Nettles how to lead and how to overcome adversity.

The tight bond the blue and orange have with each other is undeniable on Friday nights, but now it’s time to shine on a Saturday. You can see the brotherhood of the Gulfport Admiral football team this Saturday night as they take on Tupelo for a chance at their first ever State Championship title. Best of luck to Nettles and the rest of the Gulfport Admirals as they play for the ship in Starkville!