Marietta, Georgia – For the fourth year of the program’s existence, Mt. Bethel Christian Academy is preparing to take another major step forward. The Mt. Bethel Eagles are set to officially enter GHSA competition as a Class 2A Region school, giving the program an opportunity to compete in meaningful games and establish itself on a larger stage. For the players, coaches, and fan base, the excitement surrounding the transition is undeniable. After building a successful program in its first few seasons, Mt. Bethel believes it is ready for the next challenge.
The Eagles enter the 2026 season coming off a 9-1 campaign, and new head coach Damon Dawson has been tasked with building on that success while guiding the program into GHSA competition. Dawson takes over a program with momentum, but he understands that moving into GHSA competition will require a different level of preparation and commitment. One of the first things Dawson has done is assemble a coaching staff that combines experience, youth, playing knowledge, and strong relationships with student-athletes.
The staff features a mixture of veteran coaches and younger coaches with Division I college-level playing experience. That combination gives Mt. Bethel a blend of wisdom and firsthand knowledge that can help the Eagles navigate the challenges that come with competing at a higher level. Offensive coordinator Eric Washington is another important piece of the staff. Washington has developed a strong reputation throughout the Metro Atlanta 7-on-7 circuit and has built a solid rapport with young athletes.
That relationship could prove valuable as Mt. Bethel enters GHSA competition and works to develop its players both on and off the field. Dawson will also serve as the team’s defensive coordinator, and his philosophy on defense is simple: work harder than the opponent.
“We’re going to outwork some guys,” Dawson said. He made it clear that the Eagles are not entering GHSA simply to participate.
“We came to win, and not to lose. We don’t care what your name is on the front of the jersey or the back of the jersey.”
That mentality could become the identity of the Mt. Bethel program.
Another key component of Dawson’s vision is community involvement, and Coach Al Tate has played an instrumental role in that area. As the program’s community relations personnel coordinator, Tate has helped increase Mt. Bethel’s visibility while promoting the Eagles throughout the football community. His consistent work in promoting the program, building relationships, and assisting with recruiting efforts could become increasingly important as Mt. Bethel enters GHSA competition.
Building a successful football program is about more than what happens between the lines. Establishing relationships with the community, creating visibility for the athletes, and helping players find opportunities beyond high school are all important pieces of long-term success. Tate’s involvement gives Mt. Bethel another resource as the Eagles begin establishing their identity within GHSA.
On the field, Dawson has plenty of reasons to be excited about the talent within his roster. Defensive back and wide receiver Alex Hedden is one player expected to make a major impact this season. Hedden has been putting in consistent work, including early-morning workouts, as he prepares himself for the challenges ahead. That commitment to preparation could pay dividends once the Eagles begin playing meaningful games.
Another player expected to make his presence felt is tight end/outside linebacker Tripp Parsons. During a recent interview with FanVerse Sports, Parsons discussed where he believes he can make the biggest impact for Mt. Bethel this season. His answer was on the defensive side of the ball, where he expects to contribute as an outside linebacker. His versatility gives the Eagles another weapon and provides Dawson with an athlete capable of making an impact in multiple areas.
Everything surrounding Mt. Bethel Christian Academy points toward a program ready to embrace its next challenge. The players are working. The coaching staff is building relationships. The administration and community are increasing the program’s visibility. And the fan base is excited to see the Eagles compete on the GHSA stage. But the transition to GHSA competition will ultimately be measured by what happens on the field. Mt. Bethel will have an opportunity to establish itself against new opponents, compete for region victories, and begin creating a tradition that could define the program for years to come.
