Pioneer Football Still Grinding Despite Winless ’24

Warren County head coach Matt Turner said despite being winless this season and facing one of the state’s best teams in Father Ryan, his Pioneers still have goals to accomplish.

While a 55-28 loss to Wilson Central last week was not the result they wanted, Turner said there were many positives to find in their efforts. He said facing Father Ryan is a “daunting task” but has full faith in his players to perform at their peak in the final game of the season.

“We’re looking for some individual performances,” Turner said. “For some guys to say ‘Hey this is one of the best teams in the state, you know. Let’s line up and play some clean, fundamental football and execute and worry about the 1-on-1 battles and see where we stand,’.”

With Friday’s season closer being held at Nunley Stadium in McMinnville, Turner said he is excited to send his seniors off at home. He said this year’s senior class stand out due to the variety in football experience.

“It’s crazy, I’ve only got one that’s been there for four years, we’ve had a lot of new seniors,” Turner said. “Had two kids that’s this is the first year that they’ve played football and we’ve had a couple that’s been there since their sophomore year and two boys that have been there the last two years. Really kind of a green senior class.”

Turner said no matter how much experience his players had, he has been beyond pleased with their effort and attitude during this difficult season.

Senior lineman Xander McCormick is the only Pioneer that has spent all four years on the football team. The lineman has offers from multiple D-1 schools and Turner said he exemplifies what Warren County football is about.

“He’s been just an anchor in that senior class and on that offensive line,” Turner said. “He’s a big gentle giant and don’t really say a lot, but he speaks with his pads. And kids really get after him and follow him.”