Charles Henderson’s march to the third round of the Alabama High School Athletic Association playoffs was guided by a large group of seniors. Those players provided leadership and skills to the Trojans all season.

Mike Dean, Charles Henderson head coach said that the Class of 2014 will be looked up to do the same.

“We have some good guys that have been in the program for years,” said Dean. “We have 22 seniors that will have to lead, along with Austin Ingram and Richard McBryde, if we want to keep building to our goal.”

Charles Henderson fell in the third round of the playoffs to Dora at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Troy.

Dean said that new leaders emerged just minutes after the game ended.

“We had some players assert themselves after the game, and that’s what we need,” said Dean. “If we waited until now to start having guys want to be leaders, it’s too late. You win championships January through July, and have to have leaders the whole way.”

While the large group of seniors will be asked to help guide the team, and mentor younger players, Dean said that Ingram and McBryde are the offensive and defensive leaders.

Ingram, quarterback, and McBryde, linebacker, were both All-Pike County selections after the 2012 season, and will need to contribute often in 2013.

“Austin and Richard are our guys,” said Dean. “They are the ones who make sure everyone is where they need to be. They aren’t seniors, but they lead and play like they are.”