Regents Joins the Fight: Oxford’s Football Scene Grows

There are two powerhouse high school football programs in Lafayette County: the Oxford Chargers and the Lafayette Commodores. Both have built strong traditions and earned respect over years of hard work and tough competition.

But now, there’s a new kid on the block.

The Regents School of Oxford is taking its first step into high school football. After years of growth and planning, the Lions are ready to write their own story. Tonight, Regents will play its first-ever high school football game against Winona Christian.

Regents football isn’t just a new sport. It’s a sign of big change for the school. Founded by parents in 2000, Regents has grown from a small K-12 Christian school into a growing force in Oxford. The launch of the Lions football team marks a bold new chapter. It shows the school’s drive to build community, grow its reputation, and offer more to its families.

Regents is unique. It’s a Classical Christian school that blends faith with a classical approach to learning. From elementary through high school, students learn with purpose. The school is built on strong values, and those values shape everything, including athletics.

The football program is part of a bigger plan. The school is growing fast, with enrollment now topping 500 students. Athletics at Regents focus on more than wins. The goal is to build character. Sports teach teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. They prepare young people for life beyond the field.

Regents hired two key leaders to build the program. Luke Buckner, a longtime coach at the school, became Athletic Director. JoJo Pearson, a former college player with experience as a coach and athletic director, leads the football team. Together, they bring a mix of deep school knowledge and football expertise.

The team started small. In 2023 and 2024, they played only junior varsity games. This gave young players time to learn, grow, and bond.

“We’re building more than a program,” said Coach Pearson. “We’re building a tradition. Years from now, these young men will be able to say they were the first to wear a Regents high school jersey under the lights, and that legacy will last forever.”

The big moment comes tonight. That’s when Regents fields its first full varsity team against Winona Christian. The Lions will face tough opponents like Marshall Academy, Carroll Academy, and North Delta. The schedule is a real test, but the school is ready.

Regents football is more than a new team. It’s the story of a school growing with intention and heart. A school that values faith, learning, and character just as much as touchdowns and tackles.

For the Lions, the journey has just begun. Years from now, the scoreboard won’t matter. But the pride, the grit, and the legacy they build along the way will be the foundation for what’s to come.

Special thanks to Webb Lewis for his contributions to this story.