Brookwood looking for next quarterback

This week’s start of Brookwood’s summer schedule means a continuation of the Warriors’ biggest challenge this preseason — finding Rodge Waldrop’s successor at quarterback.

Brookwood coach Shane Boggs said rising junior Pearce Hightower and rising freshman Roland Waldrop, Rodge’s brother, are competing for the starting spot at signal-caller.

“Both of those guys are really good players. On one hand, losing Rodge, that’s a bad day, right? But we’re in a good position in terms of having a couple of guys that can compete with another and really bring different things to the table,” Boggs said. “I’m excited about what I’ve seen from them so far and look forward to watching them grow.”

Rodge Waldrop was a model of consistency for the Warriors during his time at quarterback. He was an All-Region and All-State selection in leading the Warriors to a region championship his junior season. His offensive fireworks continued last season, including passing for 698 yards and nine touchdowns in a win over Deerfield-Windsor.

But he is off to Georgia State. His replacement has yet to be named and may not be until after the summer. Both quarterbacks will have ample opportunity to win the starting job over the next two months.

“They have different skill sets. I think with that and the fact that they work so well together and just the value that our team gets from both of them, we’re certainly going to let both of them get a bunch of reps this summer,” Boggs said. “What I’m excited about is just making it a competitive environment where they can push each other.

“They really worked well together in the spring. The players around them responded really well to both of them. It’ll be great to watch them progress. I’m sure we’ll use both of them.”

Both also saw time in the secondary during the spring, and each could play receiver when the other is playing quarterback.