For the 2012 season, the Cartersville Purple Hurricanes will play against two other Bartow County schools, Adairsville and Cass, with Adairsville being in their new region, 5-AAA.

With more than 20 seniors on the roster, most of them returning, the Canes are experienced and veteran head coach Frank Barden said he is unaffected by the region changes. Cartersville has developed a strong tradition of football and Barden said his team will “continue to play their game,” regardless of who they face on the field.

Barden did not name anyone at the quarterback position as a key returner as the team lost Tyler Will to graduation. Being young in the QB position, the offensive line will have to be strong on their blocks while returning receivers Hayes Linn and Josh Cooper will have to provide support as well.

Head Coach: Frank Barden, 19th season as head coach (136-70-1), 17th at Cartersville, (130-54-1).

Region: 5-AAA

Key Returners: WR/DB Hayes Linn, K Preston Slemp, LB Brandon Wells, DL Byron Davis, OL Gordon Wallin, DB/WR Josh Cooper, LB Arrick Camps

2011: 5-5 overall; third in Region 7B-AAA.

Aug. 31 Darlington

Sept. 7 at Cass

Sept. 14 Rockmart

Sept. 21 at N. Murray

Sept. 28 at Coahulla Creek

Oct. 5 Lakeview

Oct. 12 Gordon Central

Oct. 19 Adairsville

Oct. 26 at Sonoraville

Nov. 9 at Ringgold