The Royal Falcons are hoping to soar to new heights as Coach Theadis Reagins enters his third season at the helm.

The Falcons finished 4-6 overall, 1-4 in District 2-4A, an improvement from a two-win campaign in 2021.

“I think this year is going to be a great improvement,” Reagins said. “The kids understand what to expect. We’re excited as a staff, excited as a team. We can’t wait to get started.”

The Falcons return seven starters on offense, including senior wide receivers Antonio Page and Dashawn Adams. Reagins said Adams is fast and was second in district in the high jump. Page is a strong runner with great hands.

“Both compliment each other,” Reagins said.

Of those seven returning offensive starters, four of them play on the offensive line. This will be key as the Falcons settle on their starting quarterback and running backs.

Reagins said the Falcons are young at quarterback, with sophomore Ashton Robinson and junior Derrick Noel competing for playing time. At running back, senior Luis Avitia and freshman Malik Hooker look to get carries.

“That’s the position we’re trying to fill right now,” Reagins said.

The defense returns six starters. Senior linebacker Justin Cryer is expected to be a leader there. Reagins said Cryer, who is committed to play college football at Northwestern, also had offers from Arizona State and Florida State.

“He’s a great player,” Reagins said. “He’s a really great kid.”

The core of the Falcons defense is their defensive line. Reagins said one lineman expected to make a difference is senior Jeremiah Robinson, who has offers from Army, Navy and Utah. Zechariah, is expected to contribute as well.

Zechariah Robinson, Reagins said, has the most potential of the linemen.

“He’s very impressive,” Reagins said. “College coaches came by to watch him in spring drills.”

Reagins said the Falcons must find both a punter and kicker for the season.