In Episode 53 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Newton High School Head Football Coach Josh Skelton for an in-depth look at what it takes to lead a program in one of Georgia’s toughest regions. Skelton shares his journey from volunteer assistant to head coach, the origins of the Rams’ #OutworkEverybody culture, and his philosophy on building young men both on and off the field. Listeners will hear candid insights into the changing high school sports landscape—from NIL opportunities to year-round training—and how Newton is adapting to prepare its athletes for success in life, not just on game day.

With the 2025 season fast approaching, Skelton breaks down his roster, spotlighting standout leaders like quarterback Deron Benson and nationally recruited running back Kevin Hartsfield. He also discusses the importance of academic accountability, the excitement around Newton’s upcoming home stadium, and the unmatched intensity of the Newton–Eastside rivalry. Whether you’re a Rams fan, a Newton County neighbor, or just someone who loves the heart of high school football, this conversation delivers the passion, perspective, and community pride that make Friday nights under the lights so special.

Eastside High School head football coach Jay Cawthon joins The Town Square Podcast for a candid conversation about building a winning culture, developing young athletes, and preparing for another season under the Friday night lights. From balancing intense summer workouts with needed rest, to navigating Georgia’s sweltering heat and sudden downpours, Coach Cawthon shares how his staff keeps players safe, focused, and ready for the long season ahead. He highlights the standout veterans, the rising talents eager to make their mark, and the deep sense of pride that comes with wearing the green and white.

But this conversation goes beyond X’s and O’s. Coach Cawthon talks about “The Standard” that defines Eastside football—an expectation of excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in the community—and how that culture has sustained the program’s success for decades. We also look ahead to the challenges and opportunities of the 2025 season, including a tough non-region schedule, region battles that determine playoff hopes, and the excitement of a future where each Newton County high school will have its own stadium. Whether you’re a lifelong Eagle fan or simply someone who values leadership and community pride, this episode is worth the listen.

In Episode 51 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Coach Spencer Fortson, head football coach of the Alcovy High School Tigers, for an energetic and inspiring conversation about football, leadership, and community. Coach Fortson shares how he’s building a culture of belief in South Newton County—on and off the field—by focusing on academics, player accountability, and year-round preparation. From a challenging summer without a home practice field to the excitement of a brand-new stadium coming soon, Fortson gives listeners an inside look at the unique challenges and opportunities facing the Tigers.

With the 2025 season’s motto, “Believe,” Fortson aims to unite his players, school, and community behind one vision. He highlights key returning players, talks about the tough early-season schedule, and explains why developing leaders matters just as much as winning games. Whether you’re a Newton County football fan or simply love stories of perseverance and culture change, this episode offers insight into what it takes to build a program that lasts—and a team that believes.