The rebuild is underway at South Charleston.

After taking over just weeks before the 2025 season, head coach Donnie Mays now enters his second year back with the Black Eagles after a full offseason to establish the culture and foundation he believes the program needs to return to playoff contention.

South Charleston returns a strong core of experienced talent, including Division I prospects Elijah Bausley and Morgan Watts along the line, while one of the nation's top young recruits, freshman Tramel Musgrove, begins his high school career with the Black Eagles. A deep running back room and an open quarterback competition give Mays several options as the offense continues to develop.

After leading South Charleston to eight playoff appearances during his first stint as head coach, Mays believes the program is headed in the right direction as the Black Eagles look to build on last season and continue their climb back into Class AAAA contention.