Coach Randal Montgomery and his Hazlehurst Indians enjoyed an amazing season in 2012. The Indians posted a perfect 16-0 record and won the MHSAA Class 3A State Championship in a rematch against the Charleston Tigers, 21-20.

     During the season, Hazlehurst made a impressive run to remain No. 1 in the AP Class 3A poll.

     Montgomery, 32, entered his second year as head coach with high expectations. He and his players were motivated to make a return trip to Jackson after suffering a bitter taste in their mouths last season after losing to Charleston.

     Montgomery shared his thoughts on his second season. “We left Jackson last year with a really sour taste in our mouth. The guys made a commitment from that point to work harder in the offseason to make it back. They did everything we asked them to in the spring, summer, and fall so the results showed.

     “Our motto was 212 Degrees. One extra degree makes a difference. So we felt like if we gave a little more effort in everything we did, the results would be different.”

     For this accomplishment, Montgomery is recognized as The DAILY LEADER’s All-Area Coach of the Year for 2012. This is a repeat performance after earning the honor in 2011.

     “To be named coach of the year twice is simply a blessing,” said Montgomery. “We are all assistant coaches working for the greatest head coach of all, Jesus Christ. I’ve just tried to do what He expects me to.”

     Montgomery presented his thoughts on his team’s undefeated season. “Going undefeated was never one of our goals. We never really set any goals. We just wanted to work to get better every day. I felt like if we did that, each game would take care of itself. We were a team that focused on the process instead of the end result.”

     Montgomery gives credit to his assistant coaches for their amazing season by saying, “Without them, we would not have had the opportunity to play for state.”

     The coaches and position are O-Line/D-Line: Ted Thompson; running back and defensive backs: Jerome Cleveland; wide receivers and defensive backs: Jarrod Milloy; defensive coordinator and linebackers: Damion Gary. Montgomery gave special thanks to the volunteer coach Chris Fair and Trey Lindsey.

     Montgomery praised the community and administrative support. “Our community support has been phenomenal. They have supported these guys all year long. Many nights on the road we matched or outnumbered the home crowd. We appreciate them. My administration really deserves credit. My principal has given me everything I need to succeed. My two assistant principals even worked home gates for me. I’m grateful for them.”

     About about goals for next season, Montgomery stated. “No goals. We just want to compete. The only thing we can control is the day at hand and our efforts. We need to continue getting better every day; than you were yesterday.”

     Montgomery is a graduate of Wesson High School. He attended and graduated Co-Lin, University of Southern Mississippi and earned a masters degree in secondary education from William Carey.

     He spent three year coaching at Canton and served four years as an assistant coach at Velma Jackson before moving to Hazlehurst.

     As a teacher, he taught English for 7 years prior to coming to Hazlehurst.

     During the offseason, Montgomery enjoys watching football and reading. He also loves to play softball and golf.

     Montgomery has been married to the former Stephanie Daniels of Biloxi for seven years. They have 4-year-old son, Noah. They live in Copiah County.