Swansea High Tigers Achieve Best Start Since 2012

Swansea High football team celebrating their victory in a game

Swansea, October 4, 2025

News Summary

The Swansea High football team, the Tigers, has made headlines by achieving a remarkable 7-0 start for the first time in over a decade. Under the leadership of Coach Willie Fox, the Tigers secured a 31-22 victory against Keenan, marking a significant turnaround from previous seasons. Key players Dante Caldwell and PJ Larry each scored two touchdowns in the match, helping the team rally from an early deficit. With upcoming games against Silver Bluff and Newberry, the Tigers aim to maintain their winning momentum.

Swansea – The Swansea High football team, known as the Tigers, has made headlines by achieving their best start in over a decade. The team is now 7-0 after securing a 31-22 victory against Keenan, marking the first time since 2012 that Swansea has had such a strong start to the season.

This impressive record comes under the leadership of Coach Willie Fox, who is in his second season. Last year, Swansea won seven games, which was the first time the team had accomplished this since 2014. With the latest victory, the team is on the brink of extending their winning streak, as the last time Swansea started 8-0 was during the 1993 season, culminating in a perfect 15-0 record and a state championship under coach Robert Mattox.

In the recent matchup against Keenan, players Dante Caldwell and PJ Larry each contributed significantly to the victory, scoring two touchdowns apiece. After facing an 8-0 deficit initially, the Tigers quickly rallied back. Caldwell’s touchdown run alongside a successful two-point conversion allowed Swansea to equalize in the second quarter. With a blocked punt by Jerel Wine, Swansea closed the first half with a 15-8 lead.

As the second half progressed, Swansea increased their lead to 23-8, capped off by a touchdown from PJ Larry. Despite Keenan’s efforts to close the gap with their own touchdown, Swansea scored again, with Kendall Wright connecting with Larry on a pass that sealed the game at 31-16.

However, Swansea’s victory was not without challenges. The team struggled with penalties throughout the game but ultimately managed to maintain control and secure the win. Meanwhile, Keenan’s Raiders fell to 2-5 for the season after suffering their fifth consecutive loss.

Looking ahead, Swansea has a bye week before facing Silver Bluff and Newberry, both teams having previously defeated the Tigers last season. Coach Fox has indicated his intention to dissect mistakes made during the recent game during this break, although he also emphasized the importance of celebrating their current success.

It is noteworthy that in the previous four seasons from 2020 to 2023, Swansea had only won three games combined. Thus, the current performance signifies a significant turnaround and improvement in the team’s fortunes so far this season.

Game Highlights:

  • Swansea’s Record: 7-0 (best start since 2012)
  • Recent Game: Defeated Keenan 31-22
  • Touchdowns: Dante Caldwell and PJ Larry each scored two touchdowns
  • Penalties: The Tigers struggled with penalties during the game
  • Keenan’s Record: 2-5 (fifth consecutive loss)

Upcoming Challenges:

  • Next Games: Will face Silver Bluff and Newberry
  • Last Season Results: Both teams defeated Swansea last season

Background Context:

Swansea last started 8-0 in 1993 under Coach Robert Mattox, finishing the season 15-0 and winning the state championship. Coach Fox has made considerable progress since taking over, indicating that the team is improving year on year.

FAQ

What is Swansea High’s current football record?

Swansea High’s football team, the Tigers, achieved their best start in over a decade by moving to 7-0 after defeating Keenan 31-22.

Who scored the touchdowns in the recent game against Keenan?

Dante Caldwell and PJ Larry each scored two touchdowns in the victory.

When was the last time Swansea started the season 7-0?

This marks the first time Swansea has been 7-0 since 2012, when they were coached by Chad Leaphart.

What is the significance of an 8-0 start for Swansea?

The last time Swansea started 8-0 was during the 1993 season, when they finished 15-0 and won the state championship under coach Robert Mattox.

How has Coach Willie Fox improved the team?

Coach Willie Fox is in his second season and has significantly improved the team’s performance, having won seven games last season for the first time since 2014.

What challenges did Swansea face during the game against Keenan?

The Tigers struggled with penalties during the game but managed to maintain control and secure the win.

What are Swansea’s next games after their bye week?

Swansea has a bye week before facing Silver Bluff and Newberry in upcoming games; both teams defeated Swansea last season.


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