Columbus High School second-year football coach Randal Montgomery has seen a transformation in one of his star players.
“When we got here, Chris Deloach was a basketball guy who was playing football,” Montgomery said. “Now, he is a football guy who also plays basketball. The strides he has made are incredible.”
Deloach has always played football. However, with a frame of 6-foot-5 and 225-pounds, it was natural that he found his way onto a basketball court as well.
“When I first started playing basketball, there were saying I was better at basketball,” Deloach said. “I always loved football more, but a lot of people didn’t see that. I really worked on some parts of my (football) game and I think I am finally a better football player than basketball player.”
Playing basketball may have actually opened the door for more success in football.
“Last season, (former Columbus basketball) coach (Sammy) Smith told me a couple of schools had called and expressed interest in me,” Deloach said. “It was humbling because I had never really seen myself as a basketball player on the next level.
“That is what really motivated me to work harder in football. If I had a chance to play basketball on the next level, then I was going to go out and give myself a chance to do the same in football.”
Columbus finished 4-7 in Montgomery’s first season. The Falcons went through a transitional period with a new coach. Some players stood out and made an immediate impression. Deloach fit into that category.
“When last season ended, he really dedicated himself,” Montgomery said. “He grew stronger. He lived in the weight room. He really became determined. He has made some tremendous strides.”
Deloach is appreciative of that push by his coaches when his football career may have been at a crossroads.
“The new coaching staff really believed in me,” Deloach said. “They pushed me very hard. I think they saw the potential. I always had a love for the game. That little bit of encouragement and motivation was all I needed.”
Deloach attacked the weight room and practice field with a vengeance. Already an emerging star as a defensive end, he has followed the lead of some of the other Falcons and worked hard to learn two positions. On offense, Montgomery said Deloach will get several plays at tight end.
Playing on a Friday night under the lights is what makes it all worthwhile for Deloach.
“I just really like the college atmosphere,” Deloach said. “I like a Friday night when everybody in town comes out to see you play. I always said that I wanted to play one day at the collegiate level. My body frame and size will be perfect for the college (football) game. I really don’t have the height to play basketball in college.”
Last season, Columbus won three of its final four games. The Falcons hope to ride that momentum.
“We are excited because last year we didn’t play too well,” Deloach said. “Everybody is a little more comfortable with the coaches now. Coach Montgomery has always stressed finishing strong and that is what we are trying to do. We have some depth. There were a lot of changes last year and we were just trying to get used to coach Montgomery’s style of play. Now, we have adapted real well.”
Deloach hopes to finish strong in both football and basketball. Each year, Deloach said he has thought for a moment or two about not playing basketball. Instead when the gym doors open, he is in the lineup. The year ahead looks promising with several starters back from a 22-win team on the hardwood.
“The basketball season is going to be special,” Deloach said. “We have some players. It is going to be a lot of fun. We are excited about (new) coach (Luther) Riley. He has taught us a lot already. Hopefully, my high school career can end on a great note.”
Follow Dispatch sports writer Scott Walters on Twitter @dispatchscott
Scott was sports editor for The Dispatch.
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