Sports360AZ
By Jayla French
The football program at Desert Edge High School is looking to bounce back this fall and make another run in the postseason after a temporary probation.
On April 15, the AIA placed the football and track and field programs on probation following the suspensions of co-head football coaches Mark and Marcus Carter for alleged recruiting violations through social media. As a result, both programs were ineligible for the playoffs for one year.
Less than a week later on April 23, the Carter’s decided to step down as co-head coaches. Desert Edge filed an appeal that was approved – officially rescinding the probation.
The Scorpions finished last year in the 5A State Championship against Higley which was filled with ejections and resulted in a 42-41 loss.
Now, with the new season kicking off, the Scorpions are entering into a new era with head coach Henri MacArthur.
MacArthur is no stranger to this team. He has been part of this squad for the past nine years, serving as a longtime assistant coach with the program.
“I’m just excited for the challenge,” MacArthur said. “That’s the most exciting part for me is the challenge of something new and something difficult…I love it.”
The incoming freshman class at Desert Edge is packed with talent including DE/DB/WR Jaelyn Flores as well as defensive end Jalanie George – two players to watch. MacArthur says that this is arguably the most talented incoming class they’ve had in his time with the Scorpions.
“The future is bright,” MacArthur said. “Those guys still have to do it and prove it and continue to grow and develop and continue to work hard because talent is not everything. You gotta mix talent with the right mindset and the right work ethic, but as long as they do that, the sky is the limit for that group.”
Along with the freshman class are returning stars such as senior cornerback Jamar Beal-Goines, who committed to Texas A&M in April.
MacArthur looks to have an exciting start at the helm, as they kick off the year with an impressive roster.
Anticipation is building for the fans, players, and coaches alike.
“I’m just looking forward to getting to compete and to see the kids out there playing,” MacArthur said. “Doing what they love to do. They’ve been working really hard.”
The Scorpions’ season is set to start in less than two weeks, with the opener taking place under the Friday Night Lights on August 30 against the Open Division Champions: Liberty.
All eyes will be on Desert Edge following the whirlwind of an offseason, a new coach, and the talented roster they have curated. They’ll be a team to keep an eye on. Like most football teams, there is a locker room message to refer to throughout the season. So, what’s the message according to MacArthur?
“Let our play do the talking — play in a way with passion and effort and play the right way.”
