Bowling Green, July 28, 2025
News Summary
High school football teams in Bowling Green prepare for the upcoming season at the 10th Annual Paul Gray Football Media Day. Coaches and players from 13 local schools evaluate team dynamics and address significant changes, including class moves and player graduations. The new state law affecting communication between coaches and players has drawn mixed reactions, while standout player Trevy Barber seeks to break school receiving records. As teams transition to synthetic turf fields, expectations rise for an exciting season ahead.
Local High School Football Programs Gear Up for 2025 Season at 10th Annual Paul Gray Football Media Day
Bowling Green, KY – High school football teams in the region are ramping up preparations for the 2025 season amidst intense summer heat. The 10th annual Paul Gray Football Media Day took place on July 27, 2025, at Bowling Green High School, attracting representatives from 13 local schools.
Coaches and players utilized this event to evaluate their teams and establish goals for the upcoming season, which kicks off on August 22. Significant changes in class assignments were a notable topic of discussion. South Warren is set to move up to Class 6A for the first time, an exciting challenge for coach Brandon Smith, while Warren Central and Barren County will drop to Class 5A. In addition, Franklin-Simpson is moving up to Class 4A, and Edmonson County is transitioning to Class 3A.
The departure of several star players has raised concerns among the teams. Notably, a trio of accomplished quarterbacks have graduated, with Dane Parsley (Warren East), Deuce Bailey (Bowling Green), and Bryce Button (South Warren) leaving significant shoes to fill. Bowling Green is currently evaluating three potential candidates to replace Bailey: junior Embree Dotson, senior Jaxon Strautman, and freshman Anthony Davis, while South Warren is considering Chase Bell and Camden Page to step in for Button.
In addition to on-field changes, the new state law enacted in June, Senate Bill 181, has complicated communication between coaches and players by prohibiting familiar channels like email, text, and social media. This law has drawn criticism from some coaches, such as Allen County-Scottsville’s Brad Hood, who argue it hampers the essential personal connections with players necessary for successful team dynamics.
Meanwhile, standout player Trevy Barber, a rising senior wide receiver from Bowling Green, is on track to set school receiving records. In the previous season, he achieved a remarkable tally of 79 catches for 1,327 yards and 22 touchdowns.
As teams prepare to kick off the season, the ongoing trend of transitioning to synthetic turf football fields is prominent. South Warren has recently completed its conversion, becoming the last school in Warren County to switch from natural grass to synthetic turf. Similarly, Metcalfe County has also transitioned to synthetic turf, along with the addition of new facilities after years of playing on a natural surface.
Hart County football, led by coach Chad Griffin, has enjoyed significant success, boasting a 34-5 record over the last three years, inspired by an effective social media presence managed by assistant coach Dylan Griffin.
Bowling Green introduces a new head coach, Cody Spegal, who was promoted from defensive coordinator and will continue to oversee the defensive play-calling. Bowling Green has shown promising performance in past seasons, with a 48-5 record over the last four years, reaching the Class 2 state semifinals twice.
Key Changes and Highlights for the Upcoming Season
- Opening Date: August 22, 2025
- Significant class assignment shifts: South Warren moving to 6A, Barren County dropping to 5A, and others moving up and down classes.
- Transition to synthetic turf fields across multiple schools, including South Warren and Metcalfe County.
- Implementation of new communication laws for coach-player interactions, prompting some criticism.
- Star players leaving create competitive quarterback battles for Bowling Green and South Warren.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Paul Gray Football Media Day?
The Paul Gray Football Media Day is an event where high school football programs come together to discuss expectations, goals, and upcoming competitions for the season.
When does the high school football season begin?
The high school football season will officially commence on August 22, 2025.
What are the new changes in class assignments for the 2025 season?
South Warren is moving up to Class 6A, while Warren Central and Barren County drop to Class 5A. Franklin-Simpson is moving up to Class 4A, and Edmonson County will compete in Class 3A.
Are there any notable players to watch this season?
One standout player is rising senior wide receiver Trevy Barber from Bowling Green, who previously recorded 79 catches for 1,327 yards and 22 touchdowns.
What are the implications of Senate Bill 181?
Senate Bill 181 bans certain forms of communication between coaches and players, such as email and social media, which some coaches believe hinders personal relationships and team dynamics.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 10th Annual Paul Gray Football Media Day |
| Date | July 27, 2025 |
| Season Opening | August 22, 2025 |
| Class Changes | South Warren to 6A, Warren Central & Barren County to 5A, Franklin-Simpson to 4A, Edmonson County to 3A |
| Top Players Graduated | Dane Parsley, Deuce Bailey, Bryce Button |
| Key Returning Player | Trevy Barber, Bowling Green |
| Synthetic Turf Trends | Schools transitioning to synthetic turf fields include South Warren and Metcalfe County. |
