25 Teams in 25 Days: West Harrison Hurricanes
In their first year competing in Class 7A, the West Harrison Hurricanes had their best season since 2022, finishing with six wins and four losses. Unfortunately, their season ended in heartbreaking fashion, falling in overtime in the final regional game and coming up short of the playoffs. Instead of putting that loss in the rearview mirror, they’re choosing to learn from it — and use it as fuel for the upcoming season.
“The way we finished last year was a big gut punch, so I’m just trying to take that and run with it,” said Austin McInnis.
“We were real close last year, so this year should be the year that we get pushed over and hopefully go far,” said Dean Hunter.
“Last year we went 6-4, and this year we’re going to build on that and make it to the playoffs and make a state run. That’s the goal,” said Kenthony Townsend.
“They work every day because they’re tired of answering that question about the playoffs. Every single day, someone is asking them or me that question, and I promise they’re working hard trying to make it. Every day, they’re trying to get better and have a successful day,” said Head Coach Quincy Patrick.
Three seniors expected to play a major role in that success are defensive back Dean Hunter, running back Austin McInnis, and defensive lineman Kenthony Townsend. That senior leadership could go a long way for the Orange and Green, but the Hurricanes believe one of their biggest strengths this season is the brotherhood they’ve built.
“Really, our overall chemistry. We’re all a brotherhood that has come close together. It’s helped the defense out a lot,” said McInnis.
“How close we are with one another and how we’re around each other all the time,” said Hunter.
“I’ve been seeing everyone grow, really the whole team. Everybody loves football now. We’ve all been together since we were little, so it’s just fun playing together,” said Townsend.
And when asked what sets this team apart, the Hurricanes make it clear.
“I’d say disciplined,” said McInnis.
“Same thing we always instill, and that’s being disciplined. It starts at our school. We have the world’s best school, so it starts over there and it comes over here. Just being disciplined,” said Coach Patrick.
“Our effort. Our effort through our plays. We just move around fast and work hard,” said Hunter.
“Definitely the physicality. We’re a physical team. Everybody’s physical across the board, all the way from defensive backs to receivers. We’re a physical team, and we’re going to outwork everybody. Everybody we play, we’re going to outwork,” said Townsend.
That discipline and physicality will be put to the test next Friday night, August 28th, as the Hurricanes welcome Poplarville to town to kick off the 2026 season.
