CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WCHS) — This marks the 30th season for Steve Edwards Jr. as head football coach for his alma mater at George Washington.

There’s a lot to like on this Patriots team, including senior quarterback Cy Persinger, who got lots of experience last season.

"Cy's worked hard. He's done a nice job getting prepared for the season,” Edwards said. “Hopefully, he'll be able to reap some of those benefits of his preparation. He's really improved in all facets of his game. His leadership, choice-making on the field. His work ethic. So, I'm hoping he has a big year."

The quarterback said being thrown into the mix in 2024 helped him develop quicker.

"Last year was a big learning experience on being thrown into the fire, [it] was a huge deal,” Persinger said. “I think last year kind of helped me develop a lot more. Helped the game kind of slow down for sure, especially last year, first time getting varsity reps."

Edwards likes the talent surrounding Persinger as well.

"In the backfield, you've got Jaden Black, freshman. You've got Clyde May will be in there, and at the receiver spot you've got Kai Martin,” Edwards said. “You've got Samaje Wesley, another senior. Those guys will probably be our biggest playmakers."

It all starts up front, and Edwards feels GW has outstanding personnel in that area. Overall, the Patriots are primed for another playoff run.

"We put in a lot of work all the way from springtime to summertime," senior Clyde May said. "So we got a head start in front of everybody. We won our 7-on-7 team, won the MSAC (Mountain State Athletic Conference). Against all the other teams. Our jayvee came in second actually for that. That's a pretty good run."

They say that time flies when you're having fun. And that's the case for Steve Edwards, Jr. the past 29 years.

"A dream. It's a great job. I've just enjoyed every minute of it. My family has enjoyed every minute of it,” Edwards said. “This community has been great to the family. This school and administration, they still support me and as long as that happens, I'll try to stay as long as I can. I still feel like I'm able to do something. Still bringing something to the table. So as long as I can do that, there's no place I'd rather be."