Kansas Pregame Football Preview 2019 by Sixteen 60 Publishing Co.

Kansas

Volume 14 | 2019

PREGAME

Football Preview

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

In The Blink Of An Eye

It never ceases to amaze me! Every May I watch with anticipation as the KSHSAA Track & Field Championships wrap-up – which, thanks to the weather took longer than ever this spring – and I prepare myself to mentally “flip the switch” on this ambitious undertaking that is the Kansas Pregame Football Preview. By that point I’ve already made my initial contact to coaches encouraging them to send in a completed questionnaire before heading out the door for the summer, so it’s about that time where I drop a friendly reminder to send the all important document back at their earliest convenience. Advertiser follow-ups, coordination with the printer, correspondence with writers, and athlete JOHN BAETZ, PUBLISHER invitations to photo shoots are just a few of the tasks that dominate the late spring. And even though I know June and July will be among the busiest times of the year for me I always remain optimistic that I’ll spend some time with my family during the summer, only to have my hopes dashed and find that August is upon me in the blink of an eye. Well this year it was a bit different for a variety of reasons, not the least of which was the expansion of our print products to include Winter and Spring publications, the launch of a new website (kansaspregame.com) that will provide even more coverage of Kansas high school sports online, and the fact that for the first time in nearly 15 years I wasn’t also running two weekly newspapers. But the primary improvement this summer involved the addition of an intern thanks to the Nex-Generation Roundup For Youth program. Perhaps not your average Nex-Generation intern, recent Tabor College graduate Gallagher Martin, a McPherson native and former college tennis player at Tabor, joined us to work full-time on Kansas Pregame this summer and did a fantastic job. Gallagher produced dozens of preview capsules, a number of feature stories and contributed to our online efforts. An experienced writer who also covers sports and does page layout for the McPherson Sentinel, Gallagher was able to hit the ground running and helped to make the work flow more smoothly than ever before. Together with long-time contributors Brent Maycock, Conor Nicholl and Everett Royer progress on the magazine was smooth and steady and I was able to spend a bit more time with family and friends, and, perhaps most importantly, get more sleep than the past several years. I’d like to thank Gallagher for joining us on this journey and express my appreciation to Nex-Generation RoundUp for Youth executive director Jacque Beckman for helping us facilitate a working relationship that we hope will continue in the months and years ahead. Thank You Sponsors! If you’ve ever heard me speak to a group of young athletes or listened to one of my radio appearances you’ve probably heard me referencing the importance of being thankful or noticed my emphasis on crediting our sponsors. Our publication is free to the players, parents, coaches and fans because of the support of our sponsors. Yes, they get extremely valuable exposure for their products and services by advertising with us, but they also advertise because they know it supports coverage of youth activities across Kansas, and because it provides a valuable keepsake publication families can cherish and share for generations to come. So, let me say just once more: “Thank You Sponsors!” for making the publication possible. KansasPregame.com continues expansion After launching our new website in January of this year our plans are to provide expanded in-season sports coverage this fall, similar to what we did in the spring. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for more details and visit KansasPregame.com early and often. As always, we want to hear from you, so message us on any of our social media platforms, email us at kansaspregame@gmail.com or give me a call or text at (785) 524-6019. And remember: Let the players play, the coaches coach, the officials officiate, and be a positive fan of Kansas high school sports!

What’s Inside?

7 9 14 17 39 55 68 69

Under the Lights Sharp Showcase

NTW Supporting Cast Big Men on Campus #KSQBS Weighting Game GCCC Recruits Kansas Class 6A

77 85 93 104 115 123 133 143

Class 5A Class 4A Class 3A Class 2A Class 1A 8-Man I 8-Man II 6-Man

Kansas

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Pregame Welcome to Kansas Pregame 2019! For the past 14 years Kansas Pregame has provided the most complete preview of high school football in the Sunflower State. Find expanded coverage of Kansas high school sports, digital editions of our magazines, and a list of free print distribution locations at www.kansaspregame.com. Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

John Baetz & Bree McReynolds-Baetz, Publishers Co-owners of Sixteen 60 Publishing Co., publishers of Kansas Pregame Football Magazine and the new Kansas Pregame Winter and Spring Editions, along with other specialty publications.

Layout and Design: Becky Rathbun Advertising Support Services: Kayla Kvacik, Kvacik Graphics Advertising Sales: John Baetz Staff Writer: Gallagher Martin Contributing Writers: Harold Bechard; Brent Maycock, Topeka Capital-Journal; Brett Marshall, Conor Nicholl Contributing Photographers: Bree McReynolds-Baetz Photography; Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

Acknowledgments: With a project of this size and scope we can’t possibly thank all the contributors, but a special “Thank You!” goes out to the coaches, athletic directors, parents and athletes who helped us secure team information. Thank you to the advertisers - without your support this publication would not be a reality. To all those involved with the completion of this publication in any way,

Thank You!

Mail inquiries to kansaspregame@gmail.com or Kansas Pregame, PO Box 186, Lincoln, KS 67455 Publication Date: Volume 14, August 15, 2019 Kansas Pregame Football Magazine was founded by John and Bree Baetz and Tim McGonagle in 2005.

The 2019 Kansas Pregame cover was photographed by

Everett Royer at the beautiful Rolling Hills Zoo and Wildlife Museum just west of Salina. For details about zoo and museum location, hours and the many great events hosted at this world-class attraction visit www.rollinghillszoo.org. For all there is to see and do in the Salina area head to www. visitsalinaks.org. Cover sponsorship provided by Rolling Hills Zoo and Wildlife Museum and Visit Salina:

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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Membership Strengthens the KFBCA This is Rod Stallbaumer, President of the Kansas Football Coaches Association and head football coach at Basehor-Linwood High School. The KFBCA is proud to partner with Kansas Pregame Football Magazine to bring a comprehensive statewide preview to the state of Kansas. For the last 14 years Kansas Pregame has been the number one name in preseason high school football coverage in the Sunflower State. Kansas Pregame has given us this opportunity to reach out to high school coaches across Kansas and highlight some of the important things the association does for its members: • Each February the KFBCA hosts a coaching clinic at the Hyatt on the river in downtown Wichita. The two-day event features some of the top high school and college coaches from Kansas, and across the country, sharing ideas on schemes, player development and program building. This event is a great opportunity for head and assistant coaches to learn about the game and network with fellow coaches. Last year the association hosted one of the largest clinics in its history and featured new K-State and KU coaches Chris Klieman and Les Miles and Iowa State coach Matt Campbell among the featured speakers. • Each December the KFBCA hosts the All-State selection meeting over the second Sunday and Monday in December. Dozens of coaches from across Kansas gather to watch film, talk about the top players in Kansas, and choose an all senior All-State team – the only All-State team chosen by the men who are closest to the action of the game, the coaches. Kansas college coaches are also encouraged to attend the event and watch film of potential prospects and discuss players with the high school coaches in attendance. Last year, Kansas Pregame publisher John Baetz facilitated media coverage of the association’s annual All-State team with Top 11 capsules and distribution to a wide ranging audience. Membership in the association is required to nominate players and vote for the team. • Prior to last year’s All-State selection meeting, KFBCA leadership helped to facilitate a meeting between strength and conditioning coaches and instructors and

state powerlifting meet organizers to try and establish a set of uniform practices and standards in the sport of powerlifting in Kansas. This effort is still underway, but the KFBCA is proud to be at the forefront of this movement. • Association leadership conducts surveys regularly to determine the biggest area of concerns in the largest number of high school football programs. Through these surveys the association is able to establish priorities and work with organizations such as the Kansas Coaches Association and the Kansas Interscholastic Athletic Rod Stallbaumer Administrators Association to promote these priorities to the Kansas State High School Activities Association’s board of directors. It is through this process that the KFBCA was able to promote its position on important issues such as reclassification, the updated district format, and the recently adopted jamboree system. Thanks in part to the efforts of our members, Kansas high school football programs will now be able to participate in full contact preseason jamborees that are safer and more effective than intra-squad scrimmages. The proposal received near unanimous support from the KSHSAA board and brings us equal with our neighbors in Missouri, Oklahoma and Colorado, who have allowed jamborees for years. • The association message board allows coaches to find and share information about job openings, camps, and other important news. To register and post visit http://kfbca.proboards.com/. • This KFBCA is open to all football coaches, both head and assistant, and a staff membership is a great way to network with your fellow football coaches around the state and have a voice in the future development of the sport of football in Kansas. If you, or your staff, are not currently members, please consider joining the association and further strengthening this valuable organization. For more information, or to join, visit www.kfbca.com.

Consider a KFBCA Membership!

.COM

Coaching Clinic • All-State Selection • Message Board • Initiative Promotion

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

When the 2018 Kansas State High School Activities Association football playoffs ended, it brought to a conclusion the 50th season of postseason play in the sport for the state of Kansas. In 1969, the KSHSAA launched the first-ever state playoff system with five classifications of 11-Man football and one classification for the 8-Man game. Today, there are six classifications of the 11-player game and two for 8-player schools. In August, the KSHSAA printed it’s most recent history book, “Under the Lights: 50 Years of KSHSAA Football Playoffs,” a 240-page, full-color book that captures the five decades of Kansas high school football playoffs. The book, compiled by long-time Kansas sports

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Under the Lights A must read for any high school football fan in Kansas and beyond

Syracuse went unbeaten in 1969, yet didn’t have a chance to compete in the playoffs. The evolution that we’ve seen over the 50 years now provides every team a chance to make the playoffs and advance to the championship game.” Interviews with legendary coaches and Kansas’ elite players who would go on to star at both the collegiate and professional levels, will recall some of the great programs, and games from the smallest of schools in 8-Man to the biggest schools in Class 6A. The book’s early chapters brings to life how the state playoff system originated with many challenges to formulate a system that would require approval from schools of all sizes and geographic areas of the state. With the Kansas Coaches Association leading the way, it took more than five years to adopt what started in the fall of 1969. How did the association overcome the challenge of appeasing schools of all sizes? “There have been many unknown stories uncovered through our research, and my take away on the book is that people will realize just how important the playoffs have been to the advancement of high school football in the state of Kansas. More players are recognized and recruited nationally than ever before.” In the first year of the postseason, the KSHSAA endured three games that would forever change the way the playoff system was Buy your copy now, online at www.kshsaa.org! conducted. The Shawnee Mission North-Shawnee Mission South Sunflower writer Brett Marshall, also includes chapters from League championship game proved to be the pivot among the top sports writers of the last half-century point that eventually led to the elimination of what was from the state’s major newspapers. Twelve writers, called the tiebreaker “penetration” rule, where any who collectively have 347 years of high school sports writing experience, chronicle the best of the best in this playoff game that ended in a deadlock at the end of regulation would be broken by determining the team anthology of KSHSAA football playoffs. that had the most offensive penetration drives inside “The project first was discussed last fall during the opponent’s 5-yard line. That SM North earned the the football season, and late in 2018 we were able win by a 1-0 score will go down as historic after the to put together a complete proposal, an outline for two rivals played to a 0-0 standoff, eventually setting the table of contents and a timeline for the project,” up the Indians for the first state championship victory Marshall said. “A lot of people have made significant over Wichita North. contributions to the book, and I think that will be reflected in the stories that are written about programs, That game, and two other playoff games, one a state championship battle, used the tiebreaker in the first coaches and players. year. Two years later, the penetration tiebreaker was “I think KSHSAA should be commended for taking abandoned and the 10-yard-line rule that had been the such a monumental project on, and I’ve been thrilled original fourth tiebreaker, became the singular system to be part of it,” Marshall said. “The football playoffs for overtimes for the next 48 years. What has become and I have a rich history, as my high school team of

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known as the “Kansas Rule,” is now utilized in 35 states and was modified and adopted by the NCAA, using the 25-yard-line as its starting point for teams. Interviews with administrators, members of the KCA, the ad hoc committee that was charged with designing a system that would have widespread approval, are all included in this first-of-a-kind book produced by the KSHSAA. A behind-the-scenes look from KSHSAA administrators on how the playoffs have evolved through five decades will bring to light the many extensive changes to the system from the first two years where only a few teams qualified for the playoffs. Today, every team has a chance to make its way through the playoffs in hopes of playing on that special Championship Saturday after Thanksgiving. Nineteen chapters will tell the story of many of the state’s elite programs, focusing on legendary coaches, and players who played their way into the hearts of gridiron fans across the state. When the final page has been turned, the high school football fan will have a better understanding of how the football playoffs have impacted Kansas communities, fans, schools, administrators, coaches and players. Chapter 1 – A Prelude to the 1969 Kansas playoff system Chapter 2 – In the Beginning: SM North and the 1-0 game Chapter 3 – Shawnee Mission North: The Dynasty Years Sidebar – SM West’s Miracle Win Over SM South in 1981 Chapter 4 – Kapaun-Southeast City League Battles Chapter 5 – Silver Lake and C.J. Hamilton’s Dominance Sidebar – The War on 24 – Silver Lake vs. Rossville Chapter 6 – Lawrence Lions’ Decade of Dominance Chapter 7 – Our Boys: The Story of Smith Center’s Dynasties Chapter 8 – Topeka’s Shining Moments: Rural/Hayden Chapter 9 – Salina Rides High: Central and South’s Big Runs Chapter 10 – Hutchinson’s Record 6 Straight State Titles Chapter 11 – Legendary Coaches Reflect on State Titles Chapter 12 – Dominance the theme in Eight-Man Divisions Chapter 13 – Wichita City League, Derby Resurgence Sidebar – Carroll’s Dusty Trail’s Championship Memories Chapter 14 – Tom Young: In a League of His Own Chapter 15 – Baldwin’s Merle Venable and the 1981 4A Title Chapter 16 – Elite Players Recall Championship Saturdays Chapter 17 – Championship Saturday and Mother Nature Chapter 18 – Sports Writers Recall Special Moments Chapter 19 – The Evolution of the KSHSAA Playoff System

A six-month process of collecting playoff game scores for all 50 years, including game statistics for all state championships for all classes has allowed for the compilation of the most extensive records of the KSHSAA football playoffs. Which school owns the most championships? Who is the coach that has captured the most titles? How many coaches have won championships at different schools? The reader will find it all here in The Record Book. The Record Book State Championship Teams – Alphabetical List of Schools/Years Won Most State Championships Won by Schools Most Consecutive State Championships Won Most Consecutive State Championship Games Played continued on page 114

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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42-6000 eteran’s status, sexual orientation, or other factors that cannot be lawfully considered in its programs and activities as required by all applicable laws and regulations. Inquiries concerning the college’s compliance with its nondiscrimination policies may be referred to the Vice 42-6000 eteran’s status, sexual orientation, or other factors that cannot be lawfully considered in its programs and activities as required by all applicable laws and regulations. Inquiries concerning the college’s compliance with its nondiscrimination policies may be referred to the Vice

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0 status, sexual orientation, or other factors that cannot be lawfully considered in its programs and activities as required by all applicable laws and regulations. Inquiries concerning the college’s compliance with its nondiscrimination policies may be referred to the Vice 0 status, sexual orientation, or other factors that cannot be lawfully considered in its programs and activities as required by all applicable laws and regulations. Inquiries concerning the college’s compliance with its nondiscrimination policies may be referred to the Vice

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NOV 9S. TERN CO AWAY SBEUPTTLEERR NA WESTERN 1 A 3 . . L V 22. NCE IOW AUUGG. 3O1RTH BUATWAAYY O N A HWOEMEE W V E A O W I O H D W S T N E A 26 N L ORE HOM . 26 Y INDEEPPEEWNDAYENC AUUGG.. 2C4OTT EELLLSHWOM T C O OM E D TY IN AWAY S . I A M T C T C T O C T . R H E O O O OM G C FORT WS AY S T A D I 9 T O C C 1 C D . . E A T I G Y F AWAY OCCT. 19CITY DODAWAY E ATLETICS IV A 5 N A O E Y ETHLET L W T D I A R C V H I L C OCCTT.. 5 SON GGAARDHEONMEE A HTIEATH AT C NSON O I M H W T O C H T A OTTIE NE HUUTCHOIM W T H H OME SC H SCO ESTABLISHED IN 1858 | HIGHLAND, KS | WWW.HIGHLANDCC.EDU | (785) 442-6000 ESTABLISHED IN 1858 | HIGHLAND, KS | WWW.HIGHLANDCC.EDU | (785) 442-6000

Highland Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), a regional accreditation agency recognized by the US Department of Education. Highland Community College does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, disability, age, religion, genetic information, marital status, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, or other factors that cannot be lawfully considered in its programs and activities as required by all applicable laws and regulations. Inquiries concerning the college’s compliance with Highland Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission its (hlcommission.org), regionalmay accreditation by the Department of or Education. Highland Community nondiscriminationapolicies be referredagency to therecognized Vice President forUS Student Services Human Resources Manager. College does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, disability, age, religion, genetic information, marital status, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, or other factors that cannot be lawfully considered in its programs and activities as required by all applicable laws and regulations. Inquiries concerning the college’s compliance with its nondiscrimination policies may be referred to the Vice President for Student Services or Human Resources Manager.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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Sharp Events

Showcase Kansas Prospects Left: Sharp Performance CEO Jake Sharp addresses the athletes at late June’s SP Top Prospect Showcase. The event welcomed nearly 200 of the state’s top football players to Kansas Wesleyan University’s beautiful new Graves Family Sports Complex in Salina. (Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com) The Sharp Performance Prospect Series provided exposure opportunities for hundreds of Kansas high school football players this spring and summer. The April SP Combine in Salina welcomed nearly 300 athletes to Salina’s beautiful new Fieldhouse in the heart of the city’s burgeoning downtown, while SP’s Top Prospect Showcase welcomed 200 of the state’s top football players to Kansas Wesleyan University’s newly renovated and expanded Gene Bissell Field at Graves Family Sports Complex. Together, the two events contribute to Sharp Performance’s mission of helping young athletes connect with athletic scholarships. Sharp Performance trainers are the foremost experts in athlete development in Kansas, and with recent expansions in two different locations in downtown Salina, along with their beautiful gym in downtown Concordia, Sharp provides state-of-theart facilities for athletes of all ages. By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Kansas high school football’s Class of 2020 features a number of well-known, Power 5 linemen commits including Lawrence Free State’s Turner Corcoran, Derby’s Alex Conn, Lakin’s Hadley Panzer and Emporia’s Hayden Pauls. However, Colby senior Aaron Kurth has burst onto the scene. Built similar to Corcoran and Conn, Kurth picked up three offers this spring and summer: University of Kansas, along with FCS Western Illinois and South Dakota. As well, Kurth has earned offers from Butler and Garden City Community Colleges. “It’s been crazy, didn’t really expect it,” Kurth said. Kurth was one of nearly 200 athletes at the annual Top Prospect Camp hosted by Sharp Performance June 28 at Kansas Wesleyan University. Kurth was part of a group of under-the-radar recruits that included Cimarron’s Hunter Renick, Hoisington’s Riley Philbern, Andover’s Peyton Henry, Jefferson West’s Pene Saili and Norton’s Judson Wiltfong, to name a few. They’ve put together a strong summer, including recent offers for multiple players. Additionally, Wamego running back Isiah Childs, who has recently committed to Akron, and Maize running back Caden Cox, who reported a KU offer on social media earlier this summer, competed in the event. Cox,

with extremely high academic scores, is a fast, physical running back who has had significant contact with multiple Ivy League schools and colleges on the east coast. Kurth, listed at 6-foot-6/6-7 and 280-285 pounds, started at center for Colby, an 8-2 team in Class 3A last fall. He sometimes played defensive tackle on a talented squad that included backs Jordan Schippers, Calvin Stapp and Hagan Booi, and lineman Xavier Slaven. The Eagles, led by second-year coach Rees McKinney, a Scott City graduate and former Moscow coach, enjoyed a 6-0 start, its best record since the early ‘90s. Kurth gave significant credit to McKinney – “an amazing job” – with getting more players out and building camaraderie. Kurth said McKinney set the team up with “little brothers” to increase the brotherhood. “That helped quite a bit, so we all came together, and it was just an amazing year with everything,” Kurth said. Schippers signed with Western Illinois last winter, while Slaven was part of Fort Hays football’s recruiting class. Kurth, Stapp and Booi, a state wrestling runner-up, will be key cogs for the Eagles for ’19. Kurth expects to move to left tackle and defensive end this fall. He also participates in basketball and track and took third at state in shot put this spring. On June 15, Kurth attended the Nebraska Pipeline camp, talked with new Kansas coach Les Miles and received an offer to the Jayhawks. South Dakota offered the same day, and Western Illinois followed up on June 24. Kurth was surprised when Miles offered. “I just wanted to hug my family,” Kurth said. Childs commits to Akron; Cox in good position Isiah Childs has flashed his great speed and athleticism at multiple showcases around the country. Childs was unable to compete in track this spring after

Right: Wamego senior Isiah Childs emerged as one of the state’s top prospects after an exceptional performance at mid-April’s Sharp Performance Combine at the Salina Fieldhouse. Photographer Everett Royer captured this picture of Childs snatching a pass from the air just above Sylvan-Lucas senior standout Beau Batchman at late June’s SP Top Prospect Showcase at Kansas Wesleyan. Following the SP Combine Childs earned offers from K-State, Akron, Toledo and others. He verbally committed to Akron earlier this summer. (Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com)

transferring from Manhattan to Wamego at mid-year. However, Childs posted a strong showing at the Sharp Performance Combine in the spring in Salina and quickly earned the Akron offer. “Us Kansas guys, we are slept on as athletes, especially football players down here, and Sharp is doing a great thing for us Kansas football players and getting us exposed,” Childs said. The Zips have strong Kansas ties, notably with Oscar Rodriguez, in his first season as Zips’ secondary coach. He and new Akron head coach Tom Arth both came from the University of Tenneesee-Chattanooga. Rodriguez is from Liberal and played at several Kansas colleges, including Emporia State and Fort Hays, and has coached at multiple Kansas schools, including Emporia State, Hutchinson Community College and continued on page 11

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14 from page 9

Garden City CC. Zips running backs coach Jayden Everett is from Newton. Akron offered multiple Kansas players this offseason, including Stufflebean and Panzer. “I felt like that was going to be home for me, home away from home, and you have got some Kansas coaches that are on the staff,” Childs said. “So having those Kansas ties hit home to me, and education-wise, it was really great, and I just felt like this was the best opportunity for me to get to the next level.” Akron wanted Childs to play running back, what he regards as is his natural position. Childs has played running back since second grade. “They are a very good school on the rise,” Childs said. “Me, as a Kansas guy, I am going to try and promote Akron as much as I can here in the Midwest, and get some guys on board.” Childs was helping with a track meet when he received a call from Akron about the offer. Akron was the first Division I school to offer Childs. Texas Tech, Kansas State and South Dakota all looked at Childs as a linebacker, and Washington State showed interest in Childs as a receiver. “That just really stuck to me, and so for them to take that chance on me, I had to take full advantage of it,” Childs said of the first offer. Wamego running back Taybor Vetter, Childs’ teammate, ran a 4.48 at the Sharp Combine in the spring and has picked up an offer from Bethel College. “Today I’m trying to show everyone what I got,” Vetter said at the Showcase. Cox, like Childs, has seen his recruitment significantly increase since the Sharp Combine in the spring. Coach Miles was very complimentary of Cox and offered June 1. “He just said, ‘Man, we want you out here,’” Cox said. “’And we really like you, and we want you. It was pretty special, especially coming from him, because I have heard he is very picky on his running backs, so it was pretty awesome.” Cox is part of a growing group of in-state players that KU has offered since Miles took over last November. “It’s special, because a lot of kids growing up in Kansas dream of going to KU or K-State, and just giving the love back to the state and getting the in-state recruits, I feel like they are really going to turn things around in the next couple seasons,” Cox said. Cox has a 4.1 GPA and 27 on his ACT and was expected to head east to visit several strong academic schools. “A lot of them told me that once I meet the head coach, I am going to be leaving with

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’18, and then was a wrestling state qualifier. On June 22, Wiltfong posted on Twitter that he earned defensive MVP at the Fort Hays camp and also picked up an official offer from the Tigers, the two-time defending MIAA champions. “It felt really good, especially with my brother going there, so maybe a chance to play with him again, but to earn MVP made it extra special,” Judson said. Judson and Hayden are very close and part of a large family that includes many relatives from the Norton area. Judson said he and Hayden do “everything together.” “He knows it’s my choice, so he doesn’t really press me too much about it,” Judson said of the college decision. “He is going to let me make the choice.” Saili brothers enjoy showcase Jefferson West features brothers Kauli, Pene and Danny Saili. Kauli will be a senior this fall, Pene a junior and Danny a sophomore. All three competed at the Showcase. Kauli delivered 72 tackles while earning all-league and all-state honors last season while Pene had 93 tackles primarily as a defensive end. Danny tallied 26 tackles in just his freshman season. The Sailis are of Samoan descent and moved to Nevada before coming to Kansas. The family has nine children, including six sisters, four of them older. Both parents played volleyball. “It’s a lot different,” Pene said. “I talk to kids who don’t have siblings or have one or two, and they said it’s quiet all the time. If you know my family, you know that we are Maize seniors Preven Christon (left) and Caden Cox (right) are just two of the athletes loud, and we know that we love to cheer, that posted top marks at April’s Salina Regional Sports Medicine Combine powered by we love to talk, we are not shy people, so I Sharp Performance at the Salina Fieldhouse. (Photos by Jacob Isaacson) wouldn’t be the person I was if it weren’t for my siblings. Most other people give credit 40 at Southwestern Oklahoma and 4.48 game. Sophomore Tate Seabolt rushed for 1,531 at Pittsburg State. In addition to those two to their parents, but I wouldn’t be who I am schools, Henry has received interest from today if it weren’t for my siblings.” yards. Renick and Seabolt should be one Kauli stands 5-11, 285, while Pene is at of the top backfields in 2A this fall. Renick Division II power Harding (Ark.). Shortly has a goal to lose weight and get lean and after the Top Prospect camp ended, Henry 6-1, 230. Danny is 6-3, 320. The family heavily stresses academics and has announced on Twitter he had received muscular for the season. enjoyed Kansas. an offer from Southern Nazarene (Okla.) “We just run people over, and we make “Out here, they can have 1-on-1 conversure they are tired,” Renick said. “And we University, where former Sterling College sations with the teachers,” Pene said. “In make sure at the end of the day that we are coach Andy Lambert is the head coach. Nevada, there are so many kids, the teachthe more physical team, and coach K really “It’s been a great experience to hit all ers can’t really pay attention to you, and do these college camps and stuff and prove instilled that into Cimarron, and I am so their jobs at the same time. It’s just that the who I am to these college scouts, and it’s thankful for him for doing that.” Koenig, known for run-heavy, explosive of- been a lot of fun this spring and summer,” academics are a lot better out here.” Last year, they helped Jeff West to a fenses with Beloit and Cimarron, announced Henry said. three-win improvement from 2-7 to 5-4. Henry’s dad, Jason, and uncle, Steve, earlier this summer he was moving to JCW finished fourth in a challenging district Colorado Springs because of his wife’s job both played at Emporia State. Steve was change. Defensive coordinator Mike Schartz drafted by the St. Louis football Cardinals in that had Hayden, Perry-Lecompton and Santa Fe Trail, all teams that finished with 1979 and played in the NFL. takes over. winning records. Wiltfong gains Fort Hays offer “It’s an offer that couldn’t have been Pene has been to camps in Texas and at Last season, Norton defensive end/tight passed up, so the thing is you can’t say Kansas State and had plans to go to KU. He anything about that,” Renick said. “You have end Hayden Wiltfong delivered another will move to the backfield this fall. impressive football and wrestling season got to be really mature about it, and you Hudl video of Pene is a highlight reel of have to go at it the right way, so I went up to with accolades on the gridiron and a state his house, shook his hand, gave him a hug, runner-up finish on the mat. Wiltfong signed pancake blocks and bone-crushing tackles. “They would rather have me in the back had a few tears because I love him, so it’s with Fort Hays football in February. protecting the quarterback, and they said His younger brother, Judson, will be a hard. Love him and his wife for what they that I can be a dual-threat,” Pene said. “I senior this fall. He recorded 64 tackles, have done for the community.” three sacks and two fumble recoveries in Hoisington’s Philbern, another one of continued on page 63 some good news,” Cox said. Renick gets offer Cimarron fullback Hunter Renick was one of the top incoming juniors at Top Prospect. He stands 6-foot-2.5 inches in cleats and weights 252 pounds. Renick is a beast in the weight room with maxes of 350 in bench, 425 in squat and 280 in clean. Butler Community College offered Renick on the field at the Showcase after seeing him perform. Renick says he learned to be more physical from his cousin and friend, former Cimarron fullback/defensive end Jaylen Pickle, who is on the Kansas State roster. The two grew up playing football in the backyard of a family member’s house. Cimarron, under coach Greg Koenig, posted 7-3 and 8-2 records the last two years, including 46.6 points a game last fall. Two years ago, Renick started one game in the backfield when Pickle was injured. Last fall, Renick started throughout the year and helped Cimarron average 345 yards a

the top lineman for the 2020 class, also picked up a Kansas Wesleyan offer at the Showcase. Philbern helped running back Wyatt Pedigo rush for more than 2,000 yards last fall. Andover’s Henry showing speed Andover senior running back Peyton Henry is part of a talented group of Top Prospect athletes that had all or some of last fall wiped out because of injuries/ transfer rules. Henry had 100 carries for 475 yards and three scores, including 27 carries for 207 yards and a TD versus Arkansas City in Week 6, his last game. Henry missed the rest of the year with an ankle injury. “I felt good throughout the year last year until my injury,” Henry said. He and junior quarterback Eli Fahnestock, who has started since his freshman year, should be a dynamic combination for Trojans, a team that finished just 3-6. “I have a lot to prove this year,” Henry said. Henry has posted 4.47 seconds in the

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

LINE, have probably heard phrase many times.For Kansas team, it means everything!AuthenAuthenON THE LINE, you have probably heard the phrase many times. the Kansas Turf team, itit means everything! ONON THETHE LINE, youyou have probably heard thethe phrase many times. ForFor thethe Kansas TurfTurf team, means everything! Authenticity, commitment, integrity, community being line.Kansas Kansas now national brand, Mammoth ticity, commitment, integrity, and community are all part of being on the line. Turf and now its national brand, Mammoth ticity, commitment, integrity, andand community areare all all partpart of of being onon thethe line. Kansas TurfTurf andand now its its national brand, Mammoth Sports Construction have been on a mission to do just that, providing the home field advantage to their clients. Sports Construction have been on a mission to do just that, providing the home field advantage to their clients. Sports Construction have been on a mission to do just that, providing the home field advantage to their clients.

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Page 13

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 14

2019 FALL SUPPORTING CAST Kansas Pregame and Nex-Tech Wireless are joining forces to recognize the individuals behind the scenes who help area high school sports teams achieve success. Athletic directors, team managers, assistant coaches, booster club members and more.

Kansas Pregame proudly presents the Nex-Tech Wireless 2019 Fall Supporting Cast! Think someone from your community deserves consideration for the Supporting Cast? Nominate a contributor to the success of your athletic program and they might earn recognition in an upcoming issue of Kansas Pregame. Submit nominations for the Nex-Tech Wireless Supporting Cast by messaging Kansas Pregame on Facebook or Twitter, emailing kansaspregame@gmail. com, or mailing a nomination to PO Box 186, Lincoln, KS 67455. Be sure to include details about how they support the team behind the scenes, contact info and references who can attest to their key role as a member of the team’s Supporting Cast! Congratulations to our 2019 Fall Supporting Cast!

SANDI BARTZ

BRETT JONES

DON WIENS

Larned

Derby

Thunder Ridge

Volunteer

Larned football wouldn’t be the same without the contributions of Sandi Bartz. Originally from Larned, Bartz has fond memories of growing up in the town of about 4,000 in southwest Kansas. For Bartz, Larned will always be home. “It’s an amazing town to grow up in and a very good town to raise kids in,” Bartz said. “It’s nice that they have the freedom to ride their bike all over town or if they want to go to the pool or to Sonic. I have fond memories of growing up in Larned.” Since 2007, Bartz has had a son playing football for either Larned High School or Larned Middle School. Her youngest son, Trevor, will be a junior for the Indians this season. Bartz is very involved with the football program. Larned head coach Tad Remy says Bartz is always willing to go the extra mile. “She helps us take care of rides for camps, prepares and organizes meals for road games, and organizes our pregame team meals,” Remy said. Bartz loves helping out the team, whether that’s feeding the players or bonding with the kids. “As a Larned football mom, I’m very good at making pasta,” Bartz said. “We feed the team every Thursday, and I always organize that. It’s good for team-building, it’s good to socialize with the boys and getting to know them a lot better.” In a tight-knit community like Larned, the bonding process does not end after football or even after graduation. “My favorite part of doing all that is seeing them after they’ve graduated,” Bartz said. “They always want to talk to you and visit and say hello and tell you how things are going. It’s always fun to keep in contact with them.” In addition to team meals every Thursday, Bartz helps organize team meals on Friday nights before games. The atmosphere in Larned on a game day is special, according to Bartz. “It’s a big day, it’s a fun day,” Bartz said. “The excitement is high. You start early, and it’s a lot of fun to watch them play and root them on.” Congratulations to Larned’s Sandi Bartz for her selection to the Nex-Tech Wireless Supporting Cast. Look for more coverage online at www.kansaspregame.com.

Filmmaker Derby is one of the top football programs in Kansas. From their facilities to their coaching, the Panthers have set the bar high. This remains true in the art of filmmaking. Brett Jones, a 2019 graduate of Derby, is the creator of “Panther Pride,” a documentary focused on the team’s summer of 2017. Jones traveled with the team the entire summer and had the opportunity to interview players, coaches, and community members. “I spent the entire summer camped out with the football team, going to all their major events,” Jones said. “I wanted a different perspective that people, specifically those in the Derby community, don’t see. I wanted to highlight what goes into making a program, and what goes into making a winning program specifically.” Jones began his Derby career as a football player but switched his focus to filmmaking. Derby coach Brandon Clark allowed Jones team access and encouraged him to follow his passion. “I talked to coach Clark, he told me he’d let me on the sidelines to work with video,” Jones said. “I got on the sidelines, I started making highlight videos and that grew into covering all the sports.” Clark was one of many Derby community members who was impressed by what Jones was able to create. “Brett brought football and the art of videography together,” Clark said. “He inspired our players during pregame and our community after the games with his videos. He not only created some masterpieces, he also did the behind-the-scenes work like film our practices and help players make their highlight tapes. “Brett has a bright future in filmmaking.” Jones says the documentary received lots of positive feedback. “The community itself was very excited; I received a lot of messages asking when the documentary was going to come out, and I really appreciate that,” Jones said. “We have access to Wichita so we are unique in the whole Kansas experience, but we do have that same small-town thing that everyone in Kansas talks about. If it wasn’t for our close community, “Panther Pride” would have never have been successful.” Congratulations to Derby’s Brett Jones for his selection to the Nex-Tech Wireless Supporting Cast. Look for more coverage online at www.kansaspregame.com.

Athletic Director/ Coach Whether it’s at Thunder Ridge High School or at the KSHSAA State Track and Field Meet, you can count on Don Wiens to be there. Wiens is a long-time teacher, coach, and athletic director at Thunder Ridge in Kensington. He’s also been a vital part of the state track meet for nearly three decades as a starter. Wiens started his career as a business teacher at Kensington and served as an assistant coach for football, basketball and track. He even drove the bus and still helps maintain the fields. In his own words, Wiens does a little bit of everything, although coaching will always hold a special place in Wiens’ heart. “The year we went down to 8-Man football, we won state that year, so that was a special year,” Wiens said. “Later on in the early 90s we won another state championship, and my son was on that team. Those were special times, but every year is unique.” Wiens has lived in Kensington since 1964. In addition to his career in education, he gives back to the community in other ways. “I’ve been on the recreation commission since 1972,” Wiens said. “We have a unique situation in that the school district doesn’t own the football field, the recreational commission owns the football field. I water, mow, and take care of the field. I’m also on the church board and the housing board, so I manage to keep busy.” Wiens also keeps busy every spring during the state track meet when he fires the starting gun for the 3-2-1A races. “The state does such a tremendous job managing that state track meet,” Wiens said. “This last year was unique because we had to finish it on Sunday and that was the first time that had ever happened. It’s just a tremendous event and it’s great to be a part of it. I’ve been doing it for 30-some years and I enjoy doing it.” Wiens’ son, Darren, respects the career his father has built. “Longevity and reliability are two things hard to find in this day and age, especially at just one school,” Darren said. “I can’t think of many coaches/teachers/ADs that have spent their professional career at one school longer than he has at Kensington.” Congratulations to Thunder Ridge’s Don Wiens for his selection to the Nex-Tech Wireless Supporting Cast. Look for more coverage online at www.kansaspregame.com.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

JENNIFER SHIEW

HEIDI JONES

TYLER ENGEL

Hodgeman County

Plainville

Victoria

Photographer/Volunteer Jennifer Shiew may not have a son playing for the Hodgeman County football team anymore, but that won’t stop her from continuing her duties as a team mom. Shiew has four children who have graduated or are currently enrolled at Hodgeman County High School. Her oldest three sons played multiple sports for the Longhorns while her youngest daughter, Grace, plays volleyball, basketball and runs track. Her oldest son, Zeck, is 23, which means, for most of the last 10 years, Shiew had a son playing football at Hodgeman County. In 2019, the only Shiew on the football field for Hodgeman County will be Jennifer on the sidelines taking pictures. Shiew is an avid photographer who is at every home game and most road contests. She finds it important to make time to support the kids, because, as she says, it all goes by so fast. “We just get up and go because we don’t want to miss any of them,” Shiew said. “That time is so precious. They’re only playing for a certain amount of time and a certain amount of years, and we just want to be there. You hope and pray that nothing ever happens to them, but if something does you want to be there.” In addition to following the Longhorns to take pictures, Shiew coordinates meals for Grace’s teams, and helps out with summer girls basketball. Shiew has developed a passion for giving back to the Hodgeman County youth. She wants her children and their teammates to bond on and off the field. “I think Hodgeman County is a great community and school district,” Shiew said. “The team meals help bring together a family atmosphere. Teams that eat together, play together, and win together.” Now that Zeck, Nick, and Luke have graduated, Shiew and her husband will turn their attention to Grace. Shiew admits there was a learning curve transitioning from football to volleyball in the fall, but she sees similarities between the sports. “We really didn’t know a lot about volleyball, but it’s been fun to watch her grow and watch her become the player that she is becoming,” Shiew said. “She still has a lot of the same passion and energy for sports just like her brothers do.” And Grace’s participation sports means the Shiew family will continue to be easy to find on game nights during the school year. “Every bleacher, every season,” Shiew said. Hodgeman County schools include the small communities of Jetmore and Hanston, two towns that were once rivals. “I think it was really cool how those two schools could come together,” Shiew said. “Everybody really got on board to make it Hodgeman County. It’s been fun to meet some of the families in Hanston. I wish I had met them sooner, not only for me, but for my kids as well.” Congratulations to Hodgeman County’s Jennifer Shiew for her selection to the Nex-Tech Wireless Supporting Cast. Look for more coverage online at www.kansaspregame.com.

CARL WERNER

Athletic Director/ Volunteer/Donor

St. Francis

Carl Werner’s name has become synonymous with St. Francis athletics. Werner has served 51 years total in education. In his time at St. Francis, Werner has spent 10 years teaching, 30 years as the Superintendent of Schools, and this upcoming year will be Werner’s eighth year as athletic director, after a brief five year retirement. No matter the sport, Werner genuinely loves supporting his St. Francis Indians. “I just love St. Francis schools and kids,” Werner said at Nex-Tech Wireless headquarters in Hays in mid-July. “I watch a lot of practice, I go to every game I can. If the St. Francis athletes are there, I want to be there watching.”

Student-Manager

Page 15

Student-Manager/Announcer

Plainville senior Heidi Jones’ maturity and initiative make her a standout football team manager, a role she has embraced since her freshman year. She remembers using milk crates to carry water bottles during her first year as manager. Displaying the afore-mentioned initiative, she bought new water carriers on her own. “To carry that milk crate around, it was heavy, it was awkward, and when I held it for the players to get their water during the game, I had to rest it on my leg and it was painful,” Jones said. “I decided I was going to be a little more professional and get water carriers.” Entering her fourth year as manager, Jones has built a solid relationship with Plainville coach Grant Stephenson. The two are often on the same page. “I’ve learned what he likes to have done,” Jones said. “... I know what drills he wants to do on what days. Before the guys come out to the practice field I already have all the equipment out. I know what they like to do at this point, so I figure I ought to help the coach out just a little bit and have all that done.” The extra assistance is not lost on Stephenson. “She’s just very organized and I never have to ask her twice to do anything,” Stephenson said. “She seems to learn our practice routine and then finds out what she can do to help out, especially in several small ways that are very helpful.” Jones manages the football team in the fall and participates in forensics in the spring. However, if you make her choose just one, ultimately her love is football. “Football is more of a team activity,” Jones said. “Everyone has to work as one big unit and come together in those bigtime situations.” Jones’ older brother, Nolan, plays at Kansas Wesleyan and is a big reason for her passion for football. In fact, Heidi and Nolan hope to one day become the first brother-sister coaching duo in football. “If it wasn’t for my brother enjoying football, I would never be where I’m at now,” Jones said. “If I hadn’t joined the football team, I don’t think we would be as close as we are now.” Jones has scholarship offers to serve in a similar role with the football teams at Fort Hays and Kansas Wesleyan. She plans on majoring in sports management while in college. “Eventually if I can coach, that would be my dream come true,” Jones said. “As long as I’m working in football, I’ll be happy.”

Tyler Engel was a Swiss army knife for Victoria High School athletics. As a freshman, Engel started out as a student-manager for the football team. He then transitioned to filming football games on top of managing, which he did until his senior year. It was then, starting last football season, Engel got into broadcasting. Engel spent most of his senior year as the public address announcer for football, basketball and track and field. Engel displays a calm demeanor outside of sports, but he says he’s a bit more outgoing when he needs to be. “When I get behind the mic I’m more enthusiastic than sitting in a room and talking,” Engel said. “There’s something about it that I really enjoy.” Announcing did not necessarily come naturally to Engel. It took him a few football games before he became comfortable with speaking to a large crowd. “My senior year they needed a PA announcer and the coach knew I was interested so that’s how I started with that,” Engel said. “I remember I was pretty nervous before my first football game. Basketball is a little more intimidating because everyone can see you more. I really enjoyed it and I’m glad I did it.” On Sept. 14 this past football season, Victoria hosted Macksville and the Knights rolled to a 70-24 victory. One play from that game stuck with Engel after the season. “[Macksville] threw a deep pass and it was picked off by us,” Engel said. “That was pretty exciting. I remember getting real excited and yelling about that so it was a lot of fun.” Engel was an essential piece of Victoria athletics throughout his time in high school, but he had to work his way up starting as a freshman. “I remember my first year all I did was the water during the games,” Engel said. “My second year they needed someone to film, so I got into that and I’ve done that for the last three years.” Victoria assistant coach Dan Rogers says Engel was always willing to go above and beyond his responsibilities. “Instead of the water just being filled up, he would distribute bottles to each position group during drills,” Rogers said. “Instead of just setting up the field, he would step in a drill as needed before cleaning up the field at the end of practices sometimes in the dark. He comes from a great family with high character. Our program and school wouldn’t be close to what it is without Tyler.” With his high school diploma in hand, Engel will move 20 minutes west to Fort Hays State where he will major in sports media. But that doesn’t mean his time at Victoria is over. “The principal at Victoria asked if I would do PA again, and I’d like too if I can,” Engel said. “Hopefully I will be able to find some opportunities in radio as well.” Congratulations to Victoria’s Tyler Engel for his selection to the Nex-Tech Wireless Supporting Cast. Look for more coverage online at www.kansaspregame.com.

And he has taken his love of St. Francis schools a giant leap further than just attending athletic contests. Werner helped launch the St. Francis Education Foundation fund with an extremely generous $100,000 donation. The foundation benefits those within the USD 297 school district. “I made the initial donation and anyone can donate to it at any time,” Werner said. “I didn’t want it to be named after me. It is administered by the St. Francis school board and the superintendent.” While Werner works as the school’s full-time athletic director, he receives very little compensation. The way Werner sees it, he’s just giving back to a community that has given him so much. “I think the main thing is that St. Francis schools have provided my entire career to me,” Werner said. “St. Francis is just a great place to live and work.” In his time at St. Francis, Werner created the Indian News Line in which he wrote recaps after every ball game for fans who weren’t able to make the game.

“A lot of the older people loved Indian News,” Werner said. Head football coach Nick Fawcett, who is entering his second year at St. Francis, says Werner is the best athletic director he has ever worked with. “He absolutely lives and breathes St. Francis athletics,” Fawcett said. “He does his best to give me almost everything I ask for as a coach.” Former St. Francis coach Rodney Yates, who coached the Indians from 2015-2017, has nothing but positive things to say about Werner as well. “When I think of Sainty there is only one man responsible for the opportunities that community has experienced,” Yates said. “Mr. Werner is a man I respect dearly and since his retirement in 2006 he has volunteered his time and life to ensure the school is set up financially and each kid that attends the district is taken care of academically and athletically.”

Congratulations to Plainville’s Heidi Jones for her selection to the Nex-Tech Wireless Supporting Cast. Look for more coverage online at www.kansaspregame.com.

Congratulations to St. Francis’ Carl Werner for his selection to the Nex-Tech Wireless Supporting Cast. Look for more coverage online at www.kansaspregame.com.

Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Clinic— your home-field advantage starts here. Whether you’re an area athlete or a weekend warrior, Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Clinic has everything you need to get you back in the game—and keep you in the game. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Timothy Hawkes and sports medicine physician Dr. Matthew Pyle lead an A-team of certified athletic trainers and physical therapists to work with athletes of every level—including five area high schools—to help prevent injuries, enhance performance, or heal through surgery and rehabilitation. At the school, on the field or in our clinic, Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Clinic is ready whenever and wherever you need us.

Timothy Hawkes, D.O. Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Surgeon

Matthew Pyle, D.O. Sports Medicine Physician

Eric Jusko Certified Athletic Trainer

Evan Bowers Certified Athletic Trainer

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Abe Noll Certified Athletic Trainer

520 S. Santa Fe, Ste. 240 • Salina, KS Sadie Teixeria Nurse Practitioner

785-452-7366 • salinaregionalsportsmedicine.com

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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Big Men on Campus 2020 Class Highlighted by Elite Big Men

24/7 and Rivals and has verbally committed to the University of Nebraska over Ohio State, Oklahoma, Notre Dame, Kansas State and Kansas. He is the 33rd ranked prospect nationally by 247. The class of 2020 also features the 17th and 54th ranked tight end prospects nationally in Salina Central’s Quinn Stewart (6-4, 230, Oklahoma State commit) and Shawnee Mission South’s Will Huggins (6-6, 234, KU commit), the 42nd and 84th ranked offensive guard prospects in Gardner-Edgerton’s Talor Warner (6-4, 265, K-State commit) and Manhattan’s Sam Shields (6-5, 285, K-State commit) and the 30th ranked center prospect in Lakin’s Hadley Panzer (63.5, 295, K-State commit). Mill Valley offensive tackle Kyle Kelly (6-6, 245, Arkansas State commit) is the 18th ranked prospect in the state according to 24/7. Also, athletic defensive ends Nate Matlack (Olathe East, 6-4, 211, K-State commit) and Cody Stufflebean (McPherson, 6-4, 230, K-State commit) are sure to pack on the pounds in college. And that doesn’t even include the other big guys in the class who are just outside of the top 20 rankings like St. James Academy’s Max Kalny (6-5, 285, Air Force offer), Maize South’s Cody Fayette (6-5, 290, South Dakota commit), Chapman’s Kel Stroud (6-4, 275, South Dakota commit), Garden City’s Refujio Chairez (6-1, 310, Missouri Southern commit), Tonganoxie’s Cole Sample (6-3, 285, Pitt. State

By John Baetz, Publisher The Kansas high school football recruiting Class of 2020 may go down as the deepest in Sunflower State history. While it will be a few years before we know for sure, what we do know now is that the class is highly regarded by both recruiting coordinators and media outlets. While the 2019 class will be remembered for names like Clay Cundiff, Easton Dean, Breece Hall, Marcus Hicks and of course, Graham Mertz – likely the highest ranked recruit the state has ever produced – 2020 will be remembered for its size. And not just size in terms of numbers of top recruits, but the actual size of the recruits. Of 247Sports.com’s top 18 Kansas college football prospects in the Class of 2020, 13 are at least 6 feet, 3.5 inches tall and 11 weigh at least 230 pounds, with eight of them 245 pounds or more. The class of 2019 featured just five of the top 17 recruits taller than 6-3 and just eight weighed more than 230 pounds. The class of 2020 features the third, 45th, 49th and 58th ranked offensive tackles in the country in Lawrence Free State’s Turner Corcoran (6-6, 280, Nebraska commit), Blue Valley’s Mason Richman (66, 252, Iowa commit), Emporia’s Hayden Pauls (6-4, 263, Iowa State commit) and Derby’s Alex Conn (6-6, 280, Nebraska commit). Corcoran is the state’s top ranked recruit by both

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football offer, KU track offer) Humboldt’s Josh Hull (6-6, 260, Emporia State offer), and Aquinas’ Peyton Reeves (6-2, 292, Southern Illinois commit), just to name a few. Kansas Pregame gathered several of those “Big Men on Campus” at Rolling Hills Zoo and Museum just outside Salina in late June for our 2019 cover shoot. We also welcomed a few guys who are not as big, but are big-time players – Topeka’s Da’Vonshai Harden and Ky Thomas (KU and Minneosta commits respectively), Plainville’s Jared Casey (Fort Hays offer), St. Paul’s Adam Albertini (60 total TDs in 2018) Axtell’s Quinn Buessing (51 TD passes in 2018) and Hodgeman County’s Eli Salmans (3,700 career rushing yards). These 18 players represent the largest group we’ve ever photographed for the cover. We hope you enjoy the features on these “Big Men on Campus” starting on page 19.

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By ConorPregame, Kansas Nicholl, ForVolume Kansas14 Pregame In 2017, Anthony Albertini led St. Paul to back-to-back playoff upsets against Osborne and Burlingame. The 6-foot-2, 225-pound Albertini helped the Indians finish 11-2 and Eight-Man, Division I runner-up to Hoxie, the team’s first state championship game appearance in 15 years. Albertini collected Sports in Kansas co-Defensive Player of the Year honors for the classification and earned a Shrine Bowl nod. He currently plays for Pittsburg State University. “He is one of the best football players that I have ever coached,” said St. Paul coach Keith Wiatrak. Anthony’s younger brother Adam started in the backfield in the state title game and finished his sophomore year with 930 rushing yards, 15 rushing scores and five special teams TDs. He caught 13 passes for 175 yards and three scores, and passed for 75 yards and a TD. Albertini returned an interception for a TD and had two more kickoff return scores

called back because of penalties. Adam returned for the upset win against Osborne after he’d been out since Week 7 and provided a big spark in the milestone 35-24 victory, a win that Wiatrak called “by far the most exciting game I’ve ever been a part of” in 18 years at St. Paul. “He is a difference maker for us on the offensive side of the ball,” Wiatrak said of Adam after the victory. Adam is listed at 5-8, 170 pounds, completely different than his brother. “I am just as baffled as you are, I mean it’s crazy,” Adam said of the physical differences. While Anthony and Adam share little in common physically, the siblings are close. Like Anthony, Adam has earned multiple awards on the gridiron. Two years ago, he was all-state as a return man. Last season, he rushed for 2,241 yards and 51 scores to earn all-state at running back. St. Paul is one of the top all-time 8-Man programs with three titles and four runner-up finishes, the majority

ADAM ALBERTINI, ST. PAUL By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame In 2015, Axtell finished 10-2 and reached the sub-state championship game for the second consecutive season. That fall, Colton Buessing capped his sterling career at quarterback with 1,306 passing yards and an 18/3 TD/INT ratio. Little-used freshman Hunter Koch completed four of seven passes for 61 yards, rushed 12 times for 45 yards and a score and didn’t catch any passes. Throughout the summer before 2016, Koch battled for the starting quarterback position with Colton’s younger brother, Quinn, then a freshman. Quinn had long played catch with his brother on the family farm. Quinn called the competition with Koch “really close all summer long.” Koch was considered the starter, but couldn’t play in the first game. Quinn, as a freshman, started his high school opener and had a solid effort with 12 of 20 passing for 117 yards and a score in a 52-12 loss to St. Mary’s Academy. Koch eventually played some at quarterback, though Quinn was the starter by year’s end. Overall, Quinn threw for 1,167 yards with a 15/11 TD/INT ratio, while Koch

passed for 322 yards with a 3/2 TD/ INT mark. Koch switched to receiver and posted a solid year with 32 catches for 559 yards and 10 scores. Axtell finished 4-5 with 31.8 points a game. The move has reshaped the 8-Man history book and helped make Buessing a standout at two fall sports. In 2017, Axtell bumped to 6-4. Buessing completed 148 of 240 passes for 1,788 yards with 27 scores against eight interceptions. Koch enjoyed a huge year with 71 catches for 1,058 yards and 20 scores. Axtell averaged 41.8 points per contest. “It just went on from there, and we just got better and better every year,” Buessing said. Last fall, Axtell went 10-2 and only lost to Twin Valley League rival Hanover, the three-time undefeated state champions. Axtell led 34-28 in the third quarter before falling 50-42 to Hanover in Week 6. The Eagles lost, 60-14, in the sub-state title game despite little difference in total yards. The Eagles finished third in the final Kpreps poll behind Hanover. Buessing completed 71 percent of his passes for 2,595 yards and 51 scores, along with 689 rushing yards and 13

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

Pagewas 19 with former coach Doug Tuck. Wiatrak a former St. Paul quarterback and longtime assistant coach. The Wiatrak and Albertini families have been close for years. Especially in the playoffs, Wiatrak has not looked at records or whether one team is favored. Instead, he views each contest as a blank slate. It’s helped St. Paul rise back up after a rare 1-7 season in 2013. Since then, St. Paul is 3-6, 6-3, 9-2, 11-2 and 9-2. St. Paul has reached at least the quarterfinals the last three falls despite graduating 13 seniors in the last two years. “Everything is 0-0, it’s a new season,” Adam said of the postseason mindset. Last fall, Adam was a SIK finalist for EightMan, Division II Offensive Player of the Year. Adam labeled his brother the “biggest influence and role model in my life.” Anthony carried a 4.0 GPA and, as a senior, led the freshmen at 6:30 a.m. for weights. “He was not the most naturally gifted kid, but through hard work and dedication and stuff he is playing at Pitt. State,” Adam said. “It’s just a lot of stuff that I didn’t think was possible. I think I see it now that you can get it through hard work, dedication and really continued on page 26

TDs. Koch delivered 73 catches for 1,265 yards and 33 TDs and set 8-Man records for single season receiving scores and career receiving TDs (63). Buessing was close to the single season record for passing scores of 56 set by Hanover’s Will Bruna in 2015. Axtell was second in 8-Man scoring offense at 56.8 points a game and was one of just seven 8-Man teams to win at least 10 games. “His speed and his ability to get open,” Buessing said of Koch’s best traits. “There’s not many 8-Man guys that can cover him.” In addition to his football accomplishments, Buessing is one of the state’s top distance runners. He started running in second grade when he went to the Easter five-kilometer run in nearby Seneca with his mom, Patricia. The 6-foot-2, 185-pound Buessing has posted times of 2 minutes, 1.85 seconds in the 800, 4:40 in the 1,600 and 10:06 in the 3,200, along with 17:23 for five kilometers, the distance for high school cross country. Last fall, Axtell took fourth in 1A boys cross country as Buessing finished fourth as an individual. Two years ago, Axtell took sixth as Buessing was 11th. At state track this May, Buessing finished second in the 3,200, seventh in the 800, ninth in the 1,600 and ran on continued on page 26

QUINN BUESSING, AXTELL

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By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Jared Casey is the youngest of seven siblings, several who had standout athletic careers at Plainville High School. Six live in Kansas, while the other one lives near the Kansas border. Jared’s oldest brother, Justin, played basketball at Fort Hays State. Andrew was a four-sport standout in football, basketball, baseball and track. Justin is a veteran assistant on the Plainville football staff and has coached both of his brothers. Jared said he has “learned a lot” from his siblings, most notably that one “can’t take anything for granted.” “You have got to use your abilities to your best, because you have got one chance,” Jared said. “And if you don’t use that chance, then it is going to go away in a heartbeat, and you only get so many chances in life.” In 2015, Plainville went 3-6 with new coach Grant Stephenson and permitted 36 points a game. The following year, the Cardinals elected to start Jared as a freshman. Plainville opened the year with powerhouse Smith Center. Entering the contest, the Cardinals had lost four straight to the Redmen and were 1-15 against Smith Center since 2004. Smith Center opened No. 1 in the classification. “It was breathtaking for me, be-

cause obviously I was a little small 180-pound freshman going in to play our first game versus Smith Center,” Jared said. Justin wrote Jared a letter. Inspired, Jared helped the Cardinals defeat Smith Center, 20-16, in a contest that came down to the game’s final play. He finished with nine tackles, second-most on the squad. The win launched an outstanding three-sport career for Jared, one of Kansas’ best all-around athletes. The letter “just like gave me the chills, because I didn’t really have very much confidence going into that game,” Jared said. “He gave me a lot of confidence, and he has been by my side throughout all of this, and he has basically helped me get to where I am right now.” Jared finished his first season with 96 tackles, second-most in Kansas among freshmen, according to MaxPreps. Plainville lowered its scoring defense to 11.5 points per game. The Cardinals went 11-2 and finished as state runner-up, the team’s best showing in 31 years. “It was just good to know that I was good enough to play at that type of level – and that early,” Casey said. The freshman tackles list from 2016 is dotted with some of the most well-

JARED CASEY, PLAINVILLE

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known seniors in Kansas. Great Bend safety Dalton Miller was first, while outstanding Maranatha Academy quarterback Nate Burdette stood fourth. Hoisington’s Wyatt Pedigo ranked seventh, and Matthew Roberts, a former Aquinas standout, was eighth. Roberts, who has since moved to Texas, is a Power 5 recruit. Pedigo has verbally committed to the University of North Dakota. Casey has picked up offers from Dodge City, Garden City and Butler junior colleges, along with Fort Hays. KU and Nebraska have expressed some interest as well. Casey played guard as a freshman, and moved to fullback sophomore year when the Cardinals did not have a true running back. “I have been transferring kind of between linebacker and fullback,” Casey said of his position at prospect camps. “I have gotten a lot of feedback from multiple coaches saying that they like me at the fullback position more than linebacker, which, I will play anything that any coach wants me to, because I just want to play college football so bad.” Overall, Casey, known for his one-handed catches, has 250 carries for 1,316 yards and 22 scores, along with 32 catches for 407 yards and three TDs. Defensively, Casey has recorded 260 tackles, 22 TFLs, eight interceptions and seven fumble recoveries. Plainville has followed a similar script the last two years with back-to-back last-second quarterfinal playoff wins versus Ell-Saline, and then sub-state title game losses to Smith Center, the two-time defending champions. continued on page 26

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Kansas By ConorPregame, Nicholl, ForVolume Kansas14 Pregame Garden City senior lineman Refujio Chairez’s strength, personality and perseverance has made him an Internet sensation, one of the state’s more recognizable athletes, an extremely rare four-year o-line starter – and a Missouri Southern State commit. Chairez squatted 405 pounds in eighth grade, and bumped to 455 in ninth. After that, he increased to 545 by April 2018, and then 675 pounds in summer 2018. A video of the lift earned serious online attention. “I was like, ‘Whoa,’” Chairez said. “It just got crazy.” On May 21, Chairez squatted 765 pounds, a lift that has nearly 60,000 views on Twitter, and MaxPreps retweeted to its national audience. Chairez credited the Garden City staff, led by head coach Brian Hill, for his focus on squatting. “We just keep getting bigger as a group, and just keep getting stronger, and then I just see the numbers skyrocketing,” Chairez said.

The strength has helped Chairez play a significant role in two sterling Garden City seasons. “We kind of want to build a culture, and leave our school better than we found it, so I just want to help as much as I can,” Chairez said. Garden City line coach Erik Base asked Chairez if he could play varsity entering his freshman year. “I was like, ‘I don’t know the plays yet, but for sure I will give a chance,’” Chairez said. Chairez started in the second half of the season opener at right guard. He played right guard the entire year for a 9-1 team, an incredibly rare feat for a Class 6A squad. The 2017 Kansas Pregame magazine lists returning starters for 27 6A teams. More than 280 players were returning starters for a 6A squad entering fall 2018. Just four were sophomores: Topeka running back Ky Thomas, Blue Valley West running back/linebacker Riley Cummings, Dodge City linebacker

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

REFUJIO CHAIREZ, GARDEN CITY By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Derby has been the top Class 6A football program in the last six seasons. The Panthers captured titles in 2013, ’15, ’16, and ’18, along with a runner-up showing in ’17. Derby has produced a number of elite high school players, but few Division I prospects, a rarity among big schools. Hunter Igo, the team MVP and Top 11 all classes, signed with Fort Hays. Isaac Keener, the 6A Sports in Kansas Defensive Player of the Year, went to Washburn. By comparison, Blue Valley North, who split with Derby in the past two 6A title games, had five players go Division I – four to Power 5 programs. The lack of Division I signings was wellknown by Igo and his teammates. “Some people have more talent,” Igo said last year. Two years ago, Derby had five signings, two to Division IIs, a pair to NAIA Friends University and wide receiver Michael Littleton to FCS South Dakota State. Three seasons back, Derby recorded eight signings: three junior college, two Division II, two NAIA and wide receiver Kenyon Tabor to Kansas, the last FBS signing for Derby. “Everybody was talking about all these D1 kids and D1 offers, and we’ve got a

lot of kids with D1 talent, but we just don’t have the height and size to play at that level,” Clark said, which makes Derby’s dominance even more impressive. However, this year, Derby has a bona fide FBS prospect in senior lineman Alex Conn, a Nebraska commit at 6-foot-6, 275 pounds. Conn, a three-star recruit, and Lawrence Free State lineman Turner Corcoran, are both Cornhusker commits. According to dataomaha.com, a Nebraska football database, there have been 65 previous players from Kansas to play football for the Cornhuskers. Between ’16-19, Kansas had just one, linebacker Will Honas from Bishop Carroll, via Butler Community College. Conn, Corcoran and Baldwin City’s Christian Gaylord (2013) are the first Kansas lineman to accept scholarship offers from Nebraska since 1983. Conn first made an unofficial visit to Nebraska last January. He called the people “real nice, real genuine” and believed he could live in Nebraska one day. “It was just a gut feeling, you know,” Conn said. “I just really enjoyed it there. It felt like home away from home.” Conn mainly communicated with offen-

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Jashon Taylor, and the lone lineman, Chairez. Page 21 The quartet has enjoyed great careers. Thomas is a fellow coverboy and Minnesota commit, and Taylor led DC in tackles and was first team all-league last year. Cummings missed 2018 with an injury, but was invited to the Sharp Performance Top Prospect Showcase in June. Additionally, Chairez was the only one of the four freshmen who started for a standout team. Topeka and Dodge City went 5-4 and Blue Valley West was 2-7. “It was scary,” Chairez said. “I was used to playing with 13, 14-year-olds, then I got moved up to varsity my freshman year, and it was against 18, 19-year-olds, I was like ‘Dang, it’s scary,’ but I mean I got used to it every single day playing against my own friends, even my brother, so I got used to it, and now it’s fun.” Chairez has accomplished similar singular feats in wrestling, too. As a sophomore, Chairez went 28-13 and finished fifth in Class 6A at 285 pounds. The 285-pound division had 18 state placers from ’16-18 in 6A. Chairez was the only sophomore who placed. Last year, Chairez collected a 28-9 mark and captured the state championship at 285. Chairez needed to cut 50 pounds for wrestling, a sport he enjoys. Cutting the weight helped Chairez know “what he was capable of.” Once he reached the required weight, Chairez said “everything else was easier.” “The mental toughness that the sport brought is making continued on page 58 sive line coach Greg Austin, a former Husker and a 10-year coach in the collegiate and professional ranks. Conn received nine total offers, including South Dakota, TCU, Oklahoma State, K- State, KU, Arizona and Iowa State. “I am a bigger guy, but I can move real quick,” Conn said. “I am good with my feet, I am good with my hands. I like to finish through, that’s what they said they like about me, and they like my aggressiveness on the field.” Conn has watched how Scott Frost, a former Nebraska quarterback, has run the program. Last year, his first back in Lincoln after great success at Central Florida, Frost opened 0-6 before he guided the Cornhuskers to a 4-2 finish. Nebraska averaged 456 yards a game, most for the team since 2012. “I have heard of programs where the coaches and players did not get along, and they are constantly butting heads, and there it’s just different, I like it there,” Conn said. Conn also loves the Derby program. “Derby has really opened up my eyes to what football could be,” Conn said. Conn credits offensive line coach Chris Pinaire, along with his parents and grandfather, for his development. Conn said he started as a “small freshman” and Pinaire has molded him into a Power 5 football player. continued on page 56

ALEX CONN, DERBY

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Kansas By ConorPregame, Nicholl, ForVolume Kansas14 Pregame Lawrence Free State senior left tackle Turner Corcoran is listed at 6-foot-6, 270 pounds. Molded by three people in distinctly different areas of his life, Corcoran has long been considered Kansas’ top overall prospect for the Class of 2020. Nationally, he was ranked 33rd overall and third at his position by 247. With the exception of two games he missed last year with a knee injury, Corcoran has started every game since the beginning of his sophomore year. He has earned a spot in the Adidas All-American game, is an excellent run blocker with a massive wingspan and received offers from every major FBS program but Alabama. “They like my tenacity and my nastiness on run blocking, and then they like my arm length and stuff like that, so that’s what really sets me apart from the other guys in the area, and then other guys from around the country,” Corcoran said. “That’s what I like to be is a nasty run blocker, and kind of a good, long pass defender.” On March 14, 2018, Kansas State of-

fered, and Nebraska followed on May 1 last year. Among others, Michigan, Ohio State, Clemson, Wisconsin and Oklahoma all offered. In mid-April, on the Nebraska spring game weekend, Corcoran committed to the Cornhuskers in front of a large group of coaches and personnel, including coach Scott Frost. As of July 12, Nebraska had eight 2020 commitments; only two are four-star pickups, Corcoran and wide receiver Xavier Betts. Corcoran plans to graduate high school in December and head to Lincoln. “Nebraska is just full of a bunch of genuine people,” Corcoran said. “The whole coaching staff is really, really genuine. They are going to tell you like it is, how you will play, just how much they are interested in you, and you’ve just got to be the same amount of genuine.” Corcoran is a leader at Free State and has encouraged peers to consider Nebraska. Derby offensive lineman Alex Conn committed to Nebraska as well. At Free State, Corcoran is looking to improve a squad that has either made the Photo by Everett Royer, quarterfinals or semifinals the last seven KSportsImages.com

Pagetitle. 22 years, but has never captured a football Corcoran’s looks up to older sister Paige, his social studies teacher Katy Hayden, and Bob Lisher, who retired after last season following 22 years leading Free State. Paige played volleyball at Johnson County Community College and Pittsburg State and finished her career last fall. She was a spot starter for the Gorillas. Paige is a major supporter of her brother; her Twitter feed has long been updated with Turner’s offers and visits. In the spring, Paige went with Turner on a visit to Oklahoma. When he committed to Nebraska, Paige tweeted: “I am SO proud of you and your decision. So glad you’ve found a new home.” Paige is currently back in Lawrence, works two jobs and is getting her master’s from KU. “She has got a better heart for her passion with volleyball,” Turner said. “She stuck with it. She wasn’t always getting the best playing time, but that didn’t matter for her as long as she was out there helping her teammates, she was a great competitor. She just continued on page 56

TURNER CORCORAN, LAWRENCE FREE STATE By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Topeka High senior quarterback Da’Vonshai Harden has committed to the University of Kansas to play football. Listed as an Dual Threat QB by 247 Sports, he is one of the state’s top-15 recruits. As a freshman, Harden was at Highland Park. He then elected to transfer to nearby Topeka High for his sophomore season and followed correct protocol to change schools. Both teams are in the same school district, along with Topeka West. Harden, known for his athleticism, became the Trojans’ starting QB as a sophomore. He helped Topeka to a three-win improvement to 8-2. Last year, the Trojans bumped up to 9-2 and led 6A in scoring offense. As a sophomore, Harden delivered 1,738 yards passing and 19 scores, and rushed for 542 yards and seven TDs. As a junior, he tallied 1,602 yards of total offense and 22 TDs. “Talk about a really dual threat guy,” coach Walt Alexander said. New coach Les Miles and lead recruiter Clint Bowen led the way on KU’s recruitment of Harden and have compared Harden to Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. “All my family can come to watch me. That means a lot to me because it shows Kansas has their eye on me and they know what I can do,” Harden told Jayhawk Slant when he committed.

This fall, Topeka has arguably the most talented team under Alexander and will try to reach its second state title game, the first since 1973. Harden and his longtime friend, running back Ky Thomas, a Minnesota commit, should again key the offense. “He has a tremendously strong arm, and he is so fast and so athletic running with the football, and he is very physical,” Alexander said of Harden. Harden, the youngest in his family, frequently spends time with Thomas, the oldest of four children. Harden’s mother has encountered some health issues. “Another place where he could just chill out and just stress-free really,” Thomas said. “He has really changed a lot in our family just having him come over.” Harden’s growth and development is part of the chemistry of the Topeka High program under Alexander, who is 79-48 as the head coach since ’06. Alexander is often asked, “How have you won here for so long?” Topeka has posted seven straight winning seasons. The Trojans have reached the quarters in ’12 and ’18, best showings since ’97. From ’95-05, Topeka High was 27-71-1, according to Kansas Football History. When Alexander first came to Topeka, the Trojans had just 18 players. Alexander installed a no-huddle

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

quick offense and has developed cohesion through the weight room. Topeka has won six state weightlifting titles. “Kids have bought into the weight room, and we had to start winning somewhere, and we started winning there,” Alexander said. Thomas especially likes the max out days that includes plenty of cheering. “Everybody coming together,” he said. “Hoping that everybody gets the lift that they want or expecting, so it’s a lot of fun, a lot of energy, loud music.” Additionally, Alexander helps build the bonds through going out for wings on Wednesday. Many Trojans attend. “Strong connection with all his players,” Thomas said of Alexander. Thomas said he has known Harden since probably before kindergarten. At times, Harden will go to the Thomas house and stay. When Harden announced his commitment tweet on March 25, he personally thanked Ky’s father, Tobian, for being a “great father figure and being there for me every step of the way.” “If he comes over, we know he’s coming over for a long time just because we just hang out,” Thomas said. “We have fun, we go play, we go swimming, we work on football late at night, so once he comes over, we know he’s going to want to stay for awhile. It’s kind of open arms every time.” Alexander said expectations for the season are high. “It’s just been an amazing run, and I just hope we have another good year, and with Ky and Da’Vonshai…this year, we have a shot to be really good,” Alexander said.

DA’VONAHSI HARDEN, TOPEKA

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By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Humboldt’s Josh Hull has always been tall and slim. As a freshman, Hull played tight end and was a free standing defensive end. As a sophomore, Hull moved into a threepoint stance at defensive end. At the end of his sophomore football season, coach Levi Wyrick came to Hull with a goal. “I needed to gain 50 pounds,” Hull said. Hull started lifting during basketball but wasn’t seeing a lot of weight gain because of all the running. In baseball, he bumped to 215 pounds, still nominal improvement. Hull told Wyrick he didn’t think he could add the weight. Wyrick mapped out a schedule. “Eat as much as you can, every chance you get, all the time, so that’s what I did, and I lifted weights with the team,” Hull said. Hull bulked up to 230, and started at defensive end and right tackle last season. “Coach made me gain a lot of weight, because I knew he wanted me to play line, so I bought in and I did it,” Hull said. Hull’s standard breakfast was seven eggs, and sometimes added ham, bacon and sausage. Hull generally made his own breakfast, even in the summer. He normally went to weights from 6 a.m. to 7:30 a.m., came home and needed to be at work by 8. “Breakfast is just that time where I stuff my whole body full where I can’t breathe,” he said. “Eat as much as I can.” Now, Hull stands 6-foot-6, 260 pounds and is hoping to play at 275 this fall. He can still eat massive quantities of food, and called seven eggs a normal breakfast.

“I could crack ten open and finish them pretty easily,” he said. Hull has offers from Emporia State and Garden City and Dodge City Community Colleges, with strong interest from NAIA Baker. Northern Iowa has invited him to a camp. Hull’s mother, Mona Scantlin, lettered in basketball at Emporia State University from ’92-93 and graduated from ESU in ’95. Last year, Hull helped Humboldt finish 11-1 and reached the Class 2A sub-state championship game, the best playoff showing in school history. Humboldt reached the quarterfinals four times in ’71, ’85, ’89 and ’07. “Every rep at practice was like it was the fourth quarter, last down of the game,” Hull said. “I mean, it was insane. Everybody’s just buying in.” Humboldt graduated a significant number all-state seniors, including tight end Tucker Hurst, defensive lineman David Watts and linebacker Dagen Goodner, a Bethel College signing and Shrine Bowler. However, Humboldt returns all-state running back Conor Haviland, who accounted for 39 scores – 32 rushing and four returns. The ’19-20 Humboldt classes had often played together since elementary school. Hull remembers his teams posting undefeated marks in third through sixth grade. Hull’s squads had similar success in junior high. Humboldt finished 4-6 in 2016 and then a three-win bump to 7-3 in ’17. Humboldt graduated multiple key seniors off ’17, notably Jacob Barker, the team’s leading rusher. However, Humboldt enjoyed excellent at-

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tendance in the first week of weights. Hull and his teammates knew the Cubs could have a special 2018. “Everybody hit the weights hard,” Hull said. Hull knew Humboldt had a good line, especially with Watts and Hurst, both also at least 200 pounds. In the first padded practice, those thoughts crystallized further. “Everything was flawless, and the talent was just there, and we knew,” Hull said. “We knew there was a chance.” Helped by Hull’s blocking, Humboldt passed for 83 yards and rushed for 286 yards a contest. On defense, Hull recorded 23 tackles, six for loss, and three sacks even with an injury that kept him out of a 30-6 playoff win versus Osage City. Hull was poked in the eye. “Was hurting and bleeding,” he said. Wyrick, in his fourth season last year, shuffled several positions, most notably at quarterback. Kyler Allen was pressed into duty in 2017 and played solidly. Then, Wyrick put Goodner at quarterback and Allen in the slot. “I think a lot of people kind of looked at us almost like we were crazy in the offseason,” Wyrick said last year. Humboldt steamrolled through the first 10 contests and won every game by at least 24 points. In the state quarterfinals, the Cubs won at Rossville, 24-22, before a 46-16 loss against Riley County, the eventual 2A runner-up.

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

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By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame One of the state’s most anticipated bouts of the 2019 Kansas wrestling tournament came in the Class 3-2-1A classification at Fort Hays State University’s Gross Memorial Coliseum. On Feb. 22, Sabetha’s Elliott Strahm and Lakin’s Hadley Panzer, ranked first and second all winter and both undefeated entering state, matched up in the 285-pound championship semifinals. The year prior, Strahm defeated Panzer in sudden victory in the semifinals en route to the championship. This season, Strahm, Sabetha’s outstanding lineman, had committed to the Kansas State football program as a preferred walk-on shortly before state wrestling. Panzer defeated Strahm, 4-2, in overtime, and then cruised to the final the following day. After Panzer won, he showed great respect to Strahm when he walked over, acknowledged his opponent, and said a few words. “Maybe one day we will play together, and that will be something cool,” Panzer said. Four months later, after a sizable climb up the football recruiting rankings, that is

a likely reality for Panzer, Lakin’s all-state, lineman. Panzer helped Lakin finish 8-2, capture the school’s first playoff victory since 1999, and led the team in tackles (62) and tackles for loss (6.5). The Broncs defeated Norton, 44-14, in the playoffs. Overall, he has 155 tackles, 28.5 TFLs and 13 sacks in his career. By March 7 of this year, Panzer had received four offers. On March 8, he took a trip to Kansas State. Two days later, Panzer received an offer from Iowa State. At the Sharp Performance Combine on April 13, Panzer said he was “100 percent” not expecting the offer from the Cyclones and was considering all options. On March 10, Akron offered, followed by Fort Hays two days later. Two days before the Sharp Combine, Air Force gave Panzer a scholarship offer. From May 11-18, Colorado State, North Dakota State and South Dakota offered, and Tulane offered on June 14. The following day, Kansas State offered, and Panzer, a longtime Wildcat fan, committed June 18. “You’ve got to go out, and you’ve got to

By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Emporia senior lineman Hayden Pauls has helped turn around the Spartans in his first three seasons and wants to continue the trend this fall. Next year, Pauls will play for Iowa State, another squad that is on the rise. The 6-foot-4, 260-pound Pauls is rated as the sixth-best player in Kansas, according to the well-known recruiting service 247Sports – and headlines the most talented offensive line class in recent Sunflower State history. Pauls, who is ranked third among in-state linemen, received interest from Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, Kansas State and Minnesota. He is another strong recruit from Emporia, a program with several elite individuals, though the team has not had a winning season since 2012. He announced his commitment on April 13. ISU, with fourth-year coach Matt Campbell, has emerged a one of the biggest turnarounds in the last two falls. Iowa State didn’t produce a winning record from 2010-17 before back-to-back 8-5 marks. The Cyclones have defeated three squads ranked in the top-6 in the previous two years, including against No. 3 Oklahoma two seasons ago. Campbell has earned back-to-back conference coach of the year honors and has started to recruit Kansas more aggressively. “They used to not be a big player in the Big 12, and now they are making a run for Oklahoma,

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

show that you want to play there,” Panzer said. “And you want to get that offer.” Panzer has one older brother, Garrison, an accomplished student involved with rodeo. Garrison wanted to first attend K-State but then went to Oklahoma State on a visit. “Just fell in love with it,” Hadley said. Hadley, a longtime wrestling fan, grew up following Oklahoma State’s wrestling dynasty. Now, he will head to Manhattan, while Garrison continues in Stillwater. In July 2018, Garrison earned one of three Tortoise Young Entrepreneurs Scholarship Awards, a national honor. The other two award winners came from Penn and Southern California. Panzer is studying agricultural business and in 2017 was awarded the Kansas Professional Rodeo Association Announcer of the Year. The Panzer’s father, Garrett, and Garrison have created G-Panzer Productions focused on rodeo announcing. As of last summer, Garrison had announced nearly 75 rodeos. Garrett played college football at Dodge. Hadley, like his family, is extremely personable and outgoing. Multiple times in continued on page 142

HADLEY PANZER, LAKIN who is one of the better teams in the nation, and they are making a run for Texas, who is a really good team in the Big 12,” Pauls said. Last year, Wichita Northwest running back Breece Hall and Labette County quarterback Easton Dean both signed with ISU. Hall was the state’s second-ranked player, and Dean stood seventh. Both Hall and Dean arrived on campus at ISU in January. Iowa State offered Lakin lineman Hadley Panzer this spring, though he eventually committed to Kansas State. In December, Campbell, in a rare apperance for an out-of-state coach, spoke at the Kansas Football Coaches Association convention in Wichita. K-State’s Chris Klieman and KU’s Les Miles were also speakers. Pauls was impressed with Campbell’s coaching staff, many whom came with him from Toledo, and the family atmosphere. “They are just on their way up, and I want to be a part of that,” Pauls said. Pauls, one of several high-profile

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

Emporia High recruits in recent years, is part of a deep 2020 linemen class in Kansas. Last year, the Sunflower State was headlined by Blue Valley North quarterback Graham Mertz, now at Wisconsin and Wichita Northwest defensive end Marcus Hicks. The ’15 class is the last one most similar to this fall. That year, offensive linemen A.J. Harris and Christian Gaylord were Kansas’ top-two prospects, and Evan Applegate was sixth. This season, Lawrence Free State OL Turner Corcoran is the state’s top recruit. Pauls, Gardner-Edgerton’s Talor Warner, Blue Valley’s Mason Richman and Derby’s Alex Conn – all linemen - are in the top-nine. Fifteen of the state’s top-16 recruits have committed to a Power 5 school, also rare for Kansas. Pauls knows the majority of the top linemen. Pauls said the linemen share several traits, including “kind of the Midwest go-getit done” mindset. “We are all pretty good sized,” he said. “We are all hard working. continued on page 142

HAYDEN PAULS, EMPORIA

Salina Downtown is in the midst of a major renovation! Scheduled for completion in 2020, the downtown will have a new streetscape and many new businesses and attractions. Lots of activity and new excitement is already expanding with fun! Anchoring the project, the Salina Fieldhouse is a versatile 68,000 sq. ft. indoor sports facility, completed in 2017. New attractions include The Alley Indoor Entertainment Center opening in 2019, and a five-story Hilton Homewood Suites as well as a classic car museum. New restaurants such as Old Chicago Pizza and Tap Room, and coming soon, Yaya’s Euro Bistro, as well as seasoned favorites like Cozy Inn, Martinelli’s and Blue Skye Brewery are just a few of the delicious choices to satisfy. Entertainment venues like the Stiefel Theatre and Salina Community Theatre host nationally recognized entertainment! For more information about Salina Downtown please visit www.SalinaDowtown.org.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 26

Albertini/from page 19_____________________________

whatever, and I apply that in all.” With 4.56 speed in the 40 and a 32-inch vertical, Albertini accounted for 60 TDs as St. Paul moved to D-II last fall. In an 80-50 playoff win against Lost Springs, Albertini had nine TDs and 335 rushing yards. St. Paul upped its offense from 44.5 points a game to 49.8 behind Albertini and a strong offensive line. The Indians ranked eighth in 8-Man offense with direct snapping and a misdirection running game. “It was more downhill, here we come, and then we will throw it when we need to, until someone stops our run,” he said. Albertini would like to play college football and is also an accomplished student with a 4.0 GPA. Albertini loves to read books, especially fantasy and science fiction, and is a history buff. “Academics, I know that’s where I am going to get far enough in life,” Albertini said. “That’s where I am going to go. I know I am not going to be in the NFL or anything like that, so I take school pretty seriously.”

Buessing/from page 19____________________________ the 3,200 relay that was fifth. Normally, Buessing starts cross county practice at 6 a.m. and practices to between 7 and 7:30. He follows with football practice after school. On cross country meet days, Axtell will normally have football before school. During basketball season, Buessing normally feeds the calves before school. The Buessings have a large dairy farm. Buessing’s grandfather started the farm. He had four sons, and Quinn’s dad is the oldest. Buessing’s dad and one of his brothers run the farm. Axtell has reached the sub-state title game four times since 2008. The Eagles won their only football championship in 1993 and took runner-up in 1985. Buessing calls 2019 “as good a shot as we’ve ever had.”

Casey/from page 20_______________________________ Two years ago, he delivered a highlight reel play in a 27-20 double overtime victory versus E-S. “He made a diving one-handed interception all the way from the middle linebacker spot,” Plainville quarterback/defensive back back Jordan Finnesy said. “He came sprinting out, he read it all the way, and it was just crazy, because I watched the whole thing, and it was like ‘How does he do that?’” In basketball, Casey was a Sports in Kansas finalist for 2A Player of the Year after he averaged 21 points, 8.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists. He has tallied 1,062 career points and helped Plainville reach back-to-back state tournaments. In track, Casey was the 2A state runner-up in the shot put and is also a standout in the discus. He is listed at 6-foot, 225 pounds with a 4.0 GPA and 4.93 40-yard dash. “He’s a beast in everything,” Finnesy said. “He’s a man. That’s really all you can say. He’s a man.”

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Kansas Volume By ConorPregame, Nicholl, For Kansas14 Pregame On Oct. 19, Hodgeman County played Ness City in a key game that eventually decided the 8-Man I, District 6 champion. HC running back Eli Salmans finished with 45 carries for 268 yards and three TDs. Many times, HC ran a play where QB Isaac Salmans, Eli’s younger brother, took the snap and pitched to Eli. Isaac was 6-3, 215, and Eli was 6-0, 205. In a rare move, Isaac ran ahead of Eli as lead blocker. “If he was 150 pounds, I wouldn’t do that with him,” HC coach Matt Housman said. The play helped Eli to 268 carries for 1,829 yards and 24 TDs for a 9-2 squad. “He’s pretty good at it, he’s a big kid,” Eli said of Isaac’s lead blocking. HC advanced to the state quarterfinals and finished third in the final Kpreps poll. “It’s just fun to block for just a great back like Eli,” Isaac said. “Because you know you just get one good block, he will get another five yards, because he can just explode.” The play harkened back to legendary Hanston coach Jerry Slaton. “That’s old-school Hanston football there,” Housman said. Before Hanston and Jetmore consolidated to form Hodgeman County, Slaton went

250-79 in 29 years at Hanston. He holds the record for the most 8-Man titles by a coach with six, before he passed away in 2008. Similar to Vince Lombardi’s Green Bay Packers, Slaton loved the power sweep, which Housman called his “bread and butter.” Housman played on the 1999 Hanston title team and graduated in 2001. Oliver Salmans is one of the all-time top 8-Man players and led Hanston to its first title in 1989. Salmans rushed for over 5,000 career yards and played at K-State before he assisted, and then took over, for Slaton. Oliver coached his brothers, Levi and Luke, to decorated careers as Hanston QBs. “There was such an age gap between me and my brothers,” Oliver said. “…We really won’t know each other if I don’t go home.” Oliver’s sons are Jacob, Eli and Isaac. Jacob served as Hodgeman County’s QB all four years and was Sports in Kansas 8-Man I Offensive Player of the Year as a senior. “We’ve just gotten closer, and us three boys, we just hang around a lot, so we just play catch in the backyard, run routes against each other all the time,” Isaac said. In 2017, all three brothers played together and helped the Longhorns to a state run-

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

ELI SALMANS, HODGEMAN COUNTY By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame From 2006-18, Tonganoxie has compiled a 61-63 record. The Chieftains, though, have had several wild one-year swings in their record. Three times Tongie has won three or fewer contests compared to the previous fall. Four times the Chieftains have improved their record by four games from the prior year. The last three falls have been the more consistent. After records of 9-2, 2-7 and 3-6, Tonganoxie is 5-4, 9-1 and 7-3. In 2017 they opened 9-0, the best start since at least 2000. The Chieftains have made the Round of 16 eight times, including the last two falls. Senior lineman Cole Sample has helped Tongie enjoy the strong seasons. Sample was pressed into duty as a sophomore because of injuries. “It’s been a fun run ever since freshman year, really just worked together as a team, and all have gotten better,” Sample said. Last year, Sample, a 6-3, 285 pound starter at nose guard and right guard was All-Frontier League on both sides of the ball. The only Chieftain to earn honors on both units. Additionally, Sample has helped Ton-

ganoxie achieve great results in track and powerlifting. At the season’s first track meet, Sample broke the school mark in the shot put with a throw of 57 feet, 9 inches. He went 61-10.5 at regionals and was the No. 2 ranked shot putter in Kansas entering state. At state, Sample scored all 16 of Tonganoxie’s points. He won the state title in the shot put at 59-6.25 and was third in the discus with a throw of 163 feet. As of July 1, Sample has received a track offer from KU, and Pittsburg State has offered for both track and football. On March 2, Sample scored 10 of the Chieftains’ 12 points at the state powerlifting meet at Basehor-Linwood. In his division, Sample finished second in the squat at 485 pounds, first in the clean at 320, and first in bench, also at 320. Sample captured first place at three powerlifting meets, including state. The football team, which will get field turf this fall, has enjoyed a nice run under eighth-year coach Al Troyer, a former longtime assistant in Texas and head football coach at Larned, prior to coming to Tonganoxie. Last year, the Chieftains had just four returning starters on both sides of the

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

27 ner-up finish. Coach Salmans called thePage season the greatest of his coaching career. “It’s real neat just to get know those three,” Housman said. The three brothers have different body types and personalities. Jacob is not as big as his brothers and played at 6-0, 160. Housman started teaching at nearby Pawnee Heights in Rozel, 19 miles from Hanston and 30 from Jetmore. He taught Eli in kindergarten. Housman has long noticed that Eli is “so serious” and even in games like tag, Eli would be “mapping out a plan.” Isaac is different. “Isaac is just a goofball,” Housman said. As a freshman, Eli, known for his low style of running, had 75 carries for 425 yards and seven TDs. As a sophomore his stat line was 215/1,460/24. He has 250 tackles and 62 TDs in his career. “It’s always worked out for me, just running low like that, and that’s just how I run,” Eli said. Isaac posted an impressive sophomore year with 83 of 135 passing for 1,237 yards and a 12/3 TD/ INT ratio. He rushed 192 times for 916 yards and 25 scores and has delivered 194 career tackles. “When we were younger, we all three just used to be the same speed,” Isaac said. “And now Eli has just taken off, and now he’s just so much faster and stronger than us. It’s just fun to see him do really good.”

ball and graduated all-state lineman and standout discus thrower LeeRoi Johnson. The Chieftains returned just 37 percent of their rushing yards, 32 percent of its receptions and had to replace their QB. Sample, though, led the team with 44 solo tackles – rare for a defensive lineman – and was second with 72 stops and seven TFLs. Korbin Riedel, who has graduated, had 280 carries for 1,531 yards and 17 scores as Tonganoxie averaged 5.6 yards per play. Riedel, the 4A Wrestler of the Year, went 42-0 and signed with University of Arkansas-Little Rock. He is Tonganoxie’s alltime winningest wrestler at 163-19. The Chieftains averaged 22.9 points a contest and allowed 20.7. After an 0-2 start, Tongie continued its success with seven straight wins, including four wins by 14 points or fewer and two by a combined eight points. This year, Sample is part of an experienced group up front, but the Chieftains welcome a new line-up of skill players. “We play hard through the whole game, and not give up, like third quarter, or at half,” Sample said. “We come out there and play just as hard in the fourth quarter as we do the first.”

COLE SAMPLE, TONGANOXIE

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By ConorPregame, Kansas Nicholl, ForVolume Kansas14 Pregame Manhattan’s Sam Shields had mainly played offensive tackle since junior high. He was left tackle through sophomore year, and then earned the starting nod at right tackle last fall. It marked his first year starting for the Indians, one of 6A’s most consistent programs. Manhattan has long been a run-based team, and had veteran senior starters at center, left guard and left tackle, notably with center Christian Schlepp and guard Max Kiracofe, both all-league players. The Indians ran behind the left side frequently, but then switched more to Shields as the year progressed. “They were trusted a little more early on in the season, because I hadn’t played yet,” Shields said. “But then towards the end of the season that’s when I got the ball ran behind me a little bit more and into the playoffs.” Shields’ standout season helped Manhattan enjoy one of its better years in recent history, and made him a Division I prospect. Manhattan averaged 39.5 points per

contest, second-most for the program from ’06-18, trailing only 41.9 points a game in ’16. Kevontae McDonald earned all-state with 1,628 yards and 30 TDs. Shields earned all-area honors. “We are a run-first team, so I like the right side, because we can get out and run it,” Shields said. Shields had offers from K-State, North Dakota State and South Dakota State. Shields’ mother, Jill, is the Wildcats’ deputy athletics director. The 6-foot-5, 285-pound Shields is part of the highly touted Class of 2020 linemen as a three-star recruit and the No. 14 overall player in the class, according to 247Sports. Shields has always been a K-State fan and committed to the Wildcats on April 17. He was the fourth commitment under new Wildcat coach Chris Klieman. “It’s always been something that I have wanted and once I knew that it was going to be a reality, I jumped on it,” Shields said. Shields projects to play guard in college.

SAM SHIELDS, MANHATTAN By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Quinton Stewart’s father, Paul, played receiver at Virginia Military. Several years ago, Paul helped his son start weight training. After a few months, Quinton “kind of fell in love” with working out. “I’ve always been pretty motivated in the weight room,” he said. “I have a lot of fun lifting.” Since eighth grade, Quinton has looked to lift two hours a day – and often does more frequently. As well, Stewart, a Salina Central tight end/defensive end, has honed his football skills on a continual basis this summer, including a goal to catch at least 300 balls per day. Stewart’s work has vaulted him up recruiting rankings. “I don’t think I have ever seen a better lifter than Quinton,” Salina Central coach Mark Sandbo said. Listed at 6-foot-4, 230 pounds, Stewart is Kansas’ No. 4 recruit, according to 247 Sports, an industry recruiting leader. After he played defensive end as a sophomore, Stewart started at tight end and defensive end as a junior. Stewart played part of the fall with a fractured elbow and missed the last two contests. He finished with 12 catches for

328 yards and six scores. Defensively, Stewart delivered 38 tackles and three tackles for loss. SC entered the season with 18 straight losses but finished 7-3. Stewart had no major offers entering the Sharp Performance Combine April 13 in Salina. There he ran a 4.69 in the 40-yard dash, 4.37 in the pro agility, 35 inches in the vertical jump and 16 reps at 225 pounds on the bench press. Later that day, Stewart went to KU’s spring game and picked up his first FBS offer. “Quinton is a terrific lifter,” Sandbo said. “That was big for him on the recruiting trail, too. Coaches loved the type of work ethic he had in the weight room, they loved his strength.” Oklahoma State followed with an offer April 22, and Stewart committed June 18. He is expected to play the versatile Cowboy back position, a spot that Stewart said “fits my abilities pretty well.” “Playing college football has always been a dream of mine,” he said. Stewart is the Mustangs’ strongest player with an impressive 1,135 pounds in the three core lifts: bench, squat and clean. Stewart has delivered 360 in bench, 440 in squat and 335 in clean. “They loved that he was what we would

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

29 “They like the aggressiveness, how IPage finish blocks and they like that last year was my first year starting, so they think I have a lot of upside, and my best ball’s pretty far down the road,” he said. Shields is a rare recent Manhattan High product to be a Wildcat. Overall, Manhattan is tied for seventh in state history with 32 career playoff appearances, according to Prep Power Index. The Indians are 2-5 all-time in state title games, though none since 2001. From 2006-18, Manhattan is 102-33. The Indians won at least 10 games four times in that span, including 2018’s 10-2 record and 6A semifinal berth, the best showing since ‘06. Manhattan shared the Centennial League title with Topeka. “Believing in the process and believing that our hard work is going to pay off,” Shields said of Manhattan’s keys to success. “And just holding everyone accountable and making sure we are all on the same page and that just brings good success.” The Indians defeated Topeka, 21-20, in OT in Week 2 in one of the season’s seminal games, and fell 9-7 to Junction City in the Silver Trophy rivalry. In the playoffs, Manhattan defeated Lawrence Free State, 41-19, on the road before the 24-6 loss to Derby. The Indians finished No. 4 in the final Kpreps poll. McDonald, now graduated, was league offensive player of the year.

say somewhat raw, and that tight end being only now his second year, there is a lot of upside to Quinton,” Sandbo said. Four days a week, Stewart lifts with his teammates in the morning. Then, he normally lifts five days a week, generally at night. Usually, he heads to the YMCA or Sharp Performance. Stewart always lifts with music and prefers rock like “Breaking Benjamin” or “Three Days’ Grace.” He focuses on the compound lifts of squat, clean, bench and deadlift and adds some accessory work. Stewart tries to lift five more pounds every time he goes to the weight room. “Always kind of tried to give it my all, get as strong as I can,” Stewart said. At least three times a week, Stewart does speed work and route running. He catches passes from anyone, including his dad, another receiver or Jackson Kavanagh, the returning SC starting QB. Photo by Everett Royer, Sandbo is a neighbor of Stewart and always sees KSportsImages.com the senior outside playing catch. “Trying to become a better overall athlete,” Stewart said. Salina Central is one of the state’s more tradition-laden programs with six state titles and three runner-up finishes. However, the Mustangs had four losing seasons in five years and back-to-back 0-9 marks when Sandbo took over before ’18. Sandbo played for his father Gary at Smoky continued on page 143 Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

QUINN STEWART, SALINA CENTRAL Salina Fieldhouse – Located downtown, the Salina Fieldhouse is a 68,000 sq. ft. indoor sports facility. Local, regional and national youth events are a perfect fit for this venue. The facility features several multi-purpose surfaces including hardwood, synthetic and portable turf. Six total basketball courts can be cross lined to accommodate eight volleyball courts, one indoor regulation or three small sided soccer fields. The facility also contains drop down batting and pitching tunnels and golf nets. The Fieldhouse serves as host to league play, tournaments, practices, camps and clinics. Whether you want to play or host an event go to www.SalinaFieldhouse.org to learn more.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 30

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CHAD

MARY

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By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Chapman went 1-8 in 2017, the first year under coach Kurt Webster. The Fighting Irish lost one contest by two points and two other games by one point apiece. “For sure, we always talked about how close we were to turning the corner,” lineman Kel Stroud said in late June. Chapman’s five biggest players were underclassmen, including the Stroud brothers, Kobey and Kel. They were the two largest Irish at 6-foot-4, 265 pounds for Kel, and 6-1, 250 for Kobey. “Tremendous amount of size there that came back,” Webster said last fall. Webster, a former assistant coach at Shawnee Mission West, instilled a power running scheme to match up with rival Clay Center and Smoky Valley. “If you want to beat tough teams and teams that aren’t cute, teams that are going to come at you, we have got to change the way we practice,” Webster said. “We’ve got to change the way we block. We’ve got to embrace the physicality.” Chapman, with a veteran staff, boosted its weight room numbers. In Webster’s first season, Chapman averaged 206

rushing yards and 15.7 points a contest. The year prior to Webster, the Irish also went 1-8 and scored just 51 total points. Webster’s tenets are “we will run the ball,” “we will hit hard,” and “we will have fun.” “Everybody started coming to everything,” Kel said. “Coming to weights, started committing to the program, started getting used to the system.” Last year, Chapman became one of the state’s biggest turnarounds with a 7-3 record. The Fighting Irish’s Wing-T averaged 310 rushing yards and 30.1 points per contest. Stroud said Webster “brought a lot more energy.” Chapman opened 2-0 for the first time since ’15 and enjoyed its first winning season since a 7-3 mark in ’07. Chapman finished runner-up in District 5, a group that had four teams finish with winning records. The Irish scored at least 20 points in every game and two of its losses came by 3022 margins, including an OT defeat to Halstead. “He definitely brought more tough football, and just getting players where they wanted to be better,” Kel said. Last year, Chapman had three assistants with previous head coaching experience. Irish athletic director Clint Merritt, former head coach at

KEL STROUD, CHAPMAN By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Cody Stufflebean’s family are long-time K-State fans. His mother, Ali, has a baby picture of Cody in a K-State jumpsuit on the bed. “I could like barely sit up,” he said. Stufflebean’s aunt is a K-State grad, and he has attended football and basketball games, including the Sunflower Showdown. He also watched McPherson’s Taylor Robertson, former Gatorade POY and Miss KS Basketball, face K-State last winter during a standout freshman season at Oklahoma. June 9, after a quick rise up the recruiting rankings, Stufflebean, a standout end and three-sport athlete, committed to the K-State. “That’s what the family’s always been,” Stufflebean said. “I had a pretty good idea if I was offered that’s where I was going to go.” The athletic Stufflebean delivered 47 tackles, eight for loss and three sacks as a sophomore. Last year, he delivered 33 stops, 13 TFLs and seven sacks. Stufflebean earned all-conference in basketball and was fifth in the Class 4A javelin with a throw of 176 feet. In May he posted impressive weight room totals with a 455 squat, 300 in bench and 325 in clean. Known for his intelligence and quiet personality, Stufflebean also has a 4.5 GPA. “He is an extremely humble guy,” senior linebacker Mason Thrash said. “He is not the dude that walks around and ‘Oh, I got an offer

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

Osborne and Hugoton, came on staff as defensive coordinator. Former Stockton head coach Brian Sweet handled the d-line, and former Chapman and Plainville head coach Tom Smith handled the o-line. One of Webster’s first moves was to bring Smith on staff for his old-school mentality. Smith, now retired, was the last Chapman coach to win the NCKL. “He has done amazing things with those guys,” Webster said. “We have come so far. The first contact camp we went to in the summer when I was here, it looked like a pillow fight. Now, we are getting off the ball with flat backs with the exact same kids and moving people off the ball.” Three players collected Kpreps all-state: running back Dalton Harvey, QB/DB Izek Jackson and Kel Stroud on the line. Harvey rushed for 1,322 yards and 15 scores. Kel, now listed at 6-4, 275, helped three players clear at least 535 rushing yards, and Chapman averaged 6.4 yards per carry. Kel picked up multiple offers, including DII’s Missouri Western, and FCS Western Illinois and South Dakota. In June, he committed to South Dakota, which has targeted Kansans the last several years. SD’s 2019 roster lists nine from Kansas, though none are seniors and seven are sophomores or below. “I really liked the coaches there,” Stroud said. “I liked the people, and they gave me a full ride offer, and I just really liked the school, and everything about it.”

from K-State,’ just pushing it in our faces. He is always humble, never brags to us. He is a hard worker, an extremely hard worker.” McPherson had its best start in more than 90 years, went 11-1 and lost to Goddard in the 4A semifinals last fall. Mac has never made a state final in football program history, but have four sub-state title berths, including 2008, ’17 and ’18. In April, Stufflebean was listed at 6-foot-4, 231.6 pounds at the Sharp Performance Combine. At that point, he had attended junior days at Emporia State and Kansas State. At the combine, he ran a 4.35 pro agility, jumped 9 feet, 2 inches in the broad jump and went 30.9 inches in the vertical. He also bench pressed 225 pounds 12 times. Akron, with two assistants with Kansas ties, called the following Monday and offered a scholarship. Ohio came in the next week. “My freshman year, I never really thought that I would be seeing myself in a D1 position, but obviously I have changed physically, got a little bigger, more aggressive and here we are,” he said. Stufflebean gained more recognition and reported offers from Ohio, Fort Hays State, South Dakota, Kent State and Toledo between April 16 and April 25. “It started to blow up,” he said. Then, Virginia Tech became Stufflebean’s first Power 5 offer on May 6. McPher-

CODY STUFFLEBEAN, MCPHERSON

son College football coach Jeremiah Fiscus sent Stufflebean’s film to Virginia Tech. VT’s Adam Lechtenberg was recruiting some junior college prospects, and the Hokies eventually offered. Air Force and Army offered in mid-May, followed by Wisconsin, May 23, and K-State, June 2. Colorado offered June 6. “It’s kind of nice to not have that anymore,” Stufflebean said of committing to K-State. Stufflebean has helped the Bullpups consistently rank among the state’s top defenses. In 2015 coach Tom Young retired, and Jace Pavlovich, a nine-year assistant and former d-coordinator, took over. McPherson went 75-22 with Young, who retired after 343 career wins and titles at Hanover, Wellington and Derby. “He is a real good guy, he is always about having fun,” Thrash said of Pavlovich. Veteran assistant Chet Harlin took over the defense from Pavlovich. In ’15, the Bullpups went 5-4 and permitted 18.9 points a game. In ’16, McPherson was 8-3 with 11.8 allowed a game. In ’17, a 10-2 mark yielded just 8.7 points allowed per contest followed by 10.5 last year. Harlin runs the McPherson weight room and focuses on the agility work outside of practice. Thrash led the team with 62 tackles and had seven TFLs. Junior Brycen Labertew also returns after he delivered 45 stops and six TFLs. “Our defense is definitely going to be the strong suit of us, which it generally is, but this is going to be a very good one,” Stufflebean said.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

100% FREE IN-STATE COLLEGE TUITION

Page 32

UP TO $20,000 SIGNING BONUS

! E E R G E D E G E L L ! E CO E R F N O I T I TU

By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame

Topeka High senior running back Ky Thomas is the state’s No. 3 prospect by 247 Sports, a recruiting industry leader. He is ranked as the nation’s 30th best running back. The 5-foot-11, 185-pound Thomas has verbally committed to the University of Minnesota. Head coach P.J. Fleck was so enamored with Thomas that the Golden Gophers have said the Trojan will be Minnesota’s only running back taken for the 2020 signing class. As well, Minnesota has collected a commitment from Bishop Miege wide receiver Daniel Jackson, the state’s No. 2 prospect. “It was just a perfect place,” Thomas said of Minnesota. Thomas rushed for 1,272 yards as a freshman, 1,771 yards as a sophomore and collected 1,651 last season. He is on pace to break the alltime city of Topeka rushing record of 5,598 yards held by Dan Davis, a ’99

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

KY THOMAS, TOPEKA By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Gardner-Edgerton finished 0-9 with several close losses in 2017. Legendary former Salina Central and then Gardner-Edgerton coach Marvin Diener retired, and Ryan Cornelsen took over after successful stints at La Crosse, Hays High and Hutchinson. Cornelsen’s staff includes strength coach Mark Simoneau, a College Football Hall of Famer who played in the NFL. In spring 2018, Cornelsen and Simoneau put on a combine for the G-E players. They both quickly came to the same realization. “We’ve got quite a bit more talent than what we were expecting,” Cornelsen said. Simoneau’s summer weight program focused more on running and quality of movement. Cornelsen installed his run-heavy offensive scheme and continually focused on the little things, such as linemen staying low. “It’s as little as using the correct technique when we tackle, making sure you communicate on the offensive line, not kind of know what to do, but know exactly our checks,” Cornelsen said last fall. Chris Walters, Cornelsen’s former defensive coordinator at Hays High, joined G-E’s staff to run the defense. Gregg Webb remained on staff after he had previous success as head coach at Claflin, Eudora and in Missouri. The staff developed G-E’s talent, most notably tight end Gage Gulley and running back Luke

Hayden graduate. Thomas’ father, Tobian, is the Trojans running backs coach and a longtime influential youth football coach in the Topeka area. “He is a great football player, that’s the only way you can describe it,” Topeka coach Walt Alexander said. “He just has a knack for it. Things you can’t teach. The ability to make people miss, and he’s physical, and he has that ability to lower his pads at the right time.” However, in Alexander’s eyes, running back might not even be Thomas’ best position – or perhaps his second-best spot. “He can do it all,” Alexander said. “He is a very intelligent football player.” As a freshman, Thomas first started at wide receiver, because Topeka High has several seniors who were solid in the backfield. “He may be just as good a receiver if not better receiver than he is a running back,” Alexander said. “He has tremendous hands and great footwork.” In the first game versus Hayden, Thomas delivered five carries for 103 yards and a score. “We found out he was probably one of the better backs we have ever had here as a freshman,” Alexander said. Quarterback Corey Thomas, an Emporia State

Photo by Everett Royer, KSportsImages.com

signee, suffered injury throughout the season, and Ky moved to quarterback. In a game against Manhattan, Thomas played quarterback and rushed for 120 yards and three scores against the 9-1 Indians. “Those expectations were sky high for the people I was replacing,” Ky said. He finished the season with more than 1,950 yards of total offense and 20 offensive scores passing, rushing and receiving. The 2016 freshman class includes several current four-year starting quarterbacks, including Maur Hill’s Jack Caudle and Chanute’s Ty Bowman, along with Miege star running back Brison Cobbins. No Kansas 11-Man freshman provided numbers like Thomas that season. Thomas also played defense and served as a returner. Alexander said Thomas had “such an amazing impact” his freshman year. Topeka finished 5-4, scored 33.9 points a game and permitted 19.3. “I was just so hard on him,” Alexander said. The last two years, the Trojans have rested Thomas on defense, except toward the end of last season. Topeka has posted 8-2 and 9-2 marks and tallied 47.8 and 45.5 points per game the last two falls. The Trojans’ fast-paced, no-huddle attack led 6A in

Jennings, and both eventually earned Kpreps all-state honors. Teven McKelvey had split time at QB as a sophomore before a breakout year as a junior and is now one of the top signal callers in the 2020 class. The changes led to a 10-1 record, the biggest turnaround in Sunflower League history, according to historian Kevin Booker. Lineman Talor Warner, 247’s No. 8 player in Kansas, is 6-foot-4, 265-pounds. Warner committed to Kansas State in the offseason after his recruitment exploded. “He is just very personable,” Warner said of Cornelsen. “It’s more than just football with him. He cares about you as a person and really just shows you what it really means to be a hard worker, have a good work ethic and basically be accountable for all your actions.” G-E was the state’s top rushing offense at 390 yards a game, a sizable jump from 205 yards a contest the year prior. Cornelsen was Kpreps 6A Coach of the Year. “We worked on footwork every single day and change of direction,” Warner said. “We hit the sleds hard. That was our thing, getting yelled at for flat backs and staying low. That really just put us in a good spot to win, just being lower than everybody else and being able to come off the ball hard and fast.” Warner also collected Kpreps all-state

continued on page 144

honors along the offensive line, one of only six underclassmen named first team all-6A, a group that includes Topeka running back Ky Thomas, Garden City lineman Refujio Chairez and Olathe North’s Arland Bruce, players that have excelled since their freshmen year. However, Warner did not play football as a freshman at Chapman. He first came to G-E for a camp, prior to the family moving to the Gardner-Edgerton District in June of 2018. “We worked out there, I hadn’t moved in yet, and then finally I moved in and started being a part of everything, hit the ground running,” he said. Warner said the team “started believing in ourselves before anybody else believed in us” during the summer months, but said the squad was a “little hesitant” to open 2018. In Week 1, G-E defeated Shawnee Mission East, 28-23, in a game that reverberated through the entire football season. G-E ended a 10-game losing streak. SME entered the season ranked fifth in 6A. The Lancers had won 20 straight regular season contests versus Kansas schools. “It wasn’t until that Shawnee Mission East game that it really became a reality that all of our thoughts are really coming true now,” Warner said. “After the win, it felt great.”

TALOR WARNER, GARDNER-EDGERTON

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Hometown PROUD

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

StudentAthletes

Page 34

Hometown Proud Student-Athletes features some of the top local student-athletes in Kansas.

n Proud Hometow S -ATHLETE STUDENT

Brought to you by Citizens State Bank and Trust Company in Ellsworth, Lincoln, Delphos, Glasco and Minneapolis.

Hometown Proud Student-Athlete

Clayton Vague

Kaden Griffin

Cooper Weinhold

Ellsworth

Minneapolis

Wilson

Clayton Vague earned plenty of respect last season as a member of the Ellsworth High School football team. As a junior, Vague was named first-team All-North Central Activities Association on the offensive line and was also selected a second-team all-league player on the defensive line. But, the accomplishment that probably made Vague the most proud was being voted the Bearcats’ MVP by his teammates. “He was a tone setter for us on the team,” said Ellsworth head coach Josh Homolka. “He is a quiet leader, but has a lot of respect from his fellow students. He is a tough, no-nonsense player and was voted as our team MVP last year.” The 5-foot-11, 195-pound Vague will look to improve on his performance from last year and also help the Bearcats improve on a 2-7 overall record and move up the ladder in the tough NCAA conference. Ellsworth was close to a much better season, but lost a two-point game to Sacred Heart and one-point game to Minneapolis. Plans are for Vague to be moved to the fullback position on offense. “This season we’re definitely focused on keeping our heads up in tough situations,” Vague said. “Last year, we had people kind of quitting once they saw the score from the other team going up, and things like that. We’re definitely focused on giving it our all for the whole game and hopefully coming out with a winning record.” A former resident of New Mexico, Vague said he likes the strength of a smaller community like Ellsworth and the close brotherhood of a team coming together on a Friday night. Also a wrestler and baseball player for the Bearcats, Vague said his future may include welding and possibly working as a lineman. He said he would consider football in college if the opportunity presented itself.

Kaden Griffin returns for his senior year at Minneapolis High School as one of the top all-around athletes in the North Central Activities Association. The 6-foot-1, 175-pound Griffin was a two-way starter on last year’s Minneapolis football team as a wide receiver and defensive back. He was also honorable mention all-state and first-team allleague in basketball and honorable mention all-league for the Lions’ baseball team that reached the semifinals of the Class 3A state tournament and finished with a 20-4 record. Last year on the football field, Griffin caught 19 passes for 404 yards and four touchdowns for the Lions. Those numbers are expected to grow considerably this fall as the Lions look to open up the offense even more than a year ago. “I think this year is going to be primarily offense,” Griffin said of areas where the team needs to improve. “We’re lacking a lot in size, so I think we’re going to be run-and-gun with passing and a lot of West Coast stuff.” Last season started with a 3-1 record after four games for the Lions, but after that, the team struggled with injuries and a tougher schedule, finishing 4-5 overall. Griffin is one of five two-way starters returning from that team. “Kaden is a very hard worker,” first-year head coach Tom Flax said. “He’s a multi-sport athlete who is only scratching the surface of his football potential.” Griffin hopes to pursue a career in baseball after graduating from high school and plans to study Architecture in college. Griffin called math his favorite subject in school, pizza his favorite food and labeled Country as his favorite type of music.

When Cooper Weinhold puts his mind to something, it usually gets done. Weinhold, a junior on the Wilson High School football team, is already a member of the National Honor Society and carries a perfect 4.0 grade point average. His favorite subject is math. He also excels in the weight room. Earlier this year, Weinhold was the Northern Plains League powerlifting champion in the 198-pound division. This fall, the 6-foot-2, 210-pound Weinhold hopes to help lead the Wilson Dragons to more success on the gridiron. “I really would like to better myself and set high standards for the other kids,” Weinhold said. “Hopefully, they will follow along and do their best.” Weinhold had a solid sophomore season for the Dragons, rushing for 366 yards and adding 57 yards receiving on offense and making 69 tackles - eight for losses - as a linebacker on defense. Wilson head coach Tony Brokes is expected to use Weinhold at the quarterback position this fall. “Cooper is continuing to develop in positive ways, demonstrating signs of early leadership, setting high standards, and accountability,” said Brokes, who welcomes back seven lettermen, including four starters, from last year’s team. “His toughest challenge lies ahead, in uniting this year’s team as one.” The Dragons will look to improve on last year’s 2-7 record against a tough schedule that includes Osborne, Sylvan-Lucas and Clifton-Clyde. Weinhold will spearhead the push for more wins after earning all-district honorable mention last season. Weinhold said living in small-town Kansas helps him have close connections with his high school classmates. After graduating from high school in 2021, he plans to attend Wichita State University and study Aerospace Engineering.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 35

Hometown Proud Student-Athlete

BEAU BATCHMAN

Tony Duggin

TYLER GOOD

Sylvan-Lucas Unified

Southern Cloud

If you’re looking for big returning numbers from last year’s football season, Tony Duggin is not your guy. But, if you’re looking for the hardest-working player this summer for the Southern Cloud Warriors, Duggin is your man. Duggin’s numbers last year were modest, at best, but the Warriors and head coach Rick Hatfield are looking for a breakout year from the 5-5, 140-pound Duggin, who will be a senior for Southern Cloud this fall. Duggin played running back and defensive back last year for the Warriors and is one of the fastest players on the team. “He will be important to our team because he has speed and will be one of the players that will carry the ball for us,” Hatfield said. “He has worked the hardest of any kid on our team in the weight room this summer. He will be one of those kids who leads by working hard. He isn’t a rah rah-type kid. He is well liked by the other kids.” The Warriors finished with a 3-6 record last year, which was the most victories since the 2013 season. Duggin is looking to add to that total, but last year’s underclassmen will have to step up since Southern Cloud lost six seniors off that team. The Warriors will have a solid supporting class to go around Duggin, but not much depth with around 12-14 players out this fall. Morgan Coleman returns for his third year at quarterback. In his career, he has completed 29 of 97 passes for 273 yards with a 9/13 TD/INT ratio. He has recorded 108 tackles with 57 assists. Senior Nevyn Gold has 11 passes defended in his career. Sophomore Dusty Mason enjoyed a strong freshman year with five passes defended and collected honorable mention all district recognition. “I hope to win more games this year, have fewer injuries and just have a good season of football,” Duggin said.

Lincoln

Athletic success runs deep in Beau Batchman’s family. Batchman’s two older sisters - Courtney and Logan - are members of the Fort Hays State track and field team. His father, Ryan, is the track coach and long-time football assistant at Sylvan-Lucas High School. Beau Batchman kept up the family tradition in a big way last season as a junior, rushing for 1,400 yards and 20 touchdowns on offense and finishing with 101 tackles as a linebacker on defense to help the Mustangs to a 6-4 record and into the first round of the 8-Man Division II state playoffs. In one of Batchman’s highlights of the 2018 season against rival Lincoln in Week 3, the running back rushed for 172 yards and two TDs, added a 63-yard kickoff return to open the game and intercepted a pass at the goal line from his linebacker spot. Batchman, a 6-1, 180-pound senior, earned all-state honors from several organizations last year and is expected to be one of the top 8-Man players in Kansas this fall. “Beau is an extremely hard working kid,” Sylvan-Lucas head coach Ben Labertew said. “He practices at the same speed he plays games, so that makes him fun to coach. He’s also a kid who will play anywhere. “Last season, when Tra Barrientes had to come out of a game, Beau jumped from tailback to center without me saying a word. That’s the type of kid you want on your team.” Batchman said his goals for the season are for the Mustangs to work better as a team. “I really like our coaching staff here. They really get us going good,” Batchman said. “Practice is always fun and we get our work done.” Batchman is also a starter on the Sylvan-Lucas basketball team - he was named to the Tescott Tip-Off All-Tournament team last season - and was a Class 1A state track qualifier in the 300 meter hurdles in the spring.

Tyler Good is a young man of few words. He would rather let his play on the football field do the talking for him. When asked this summer what his goals were for the 2019 season, the 6-foot-1, 180-pound junior replied, “Just be better than I was last year.” Plain, simple, to the point. If Good is indeed better than a year ago, that will be great news for the Lincoln Leopards. As a sophomore, Good rushed for 316 yards and four touchdowns on 66 carries, but it was his play on defense that stood out. As a linebacker for the Leopards, Good was in on 107 tackles last season (11.9 per game), six of them were for losses and he also added one quarterback sack and a forced fumble. Good uses his strength and speed to his advantage. He won the bench press in the 173-pound class at the Kansas EightMan Football Association State Powerlifting Meet and was part of the 4x100 relay team that finished fifth at the state track meet in Class 1A and also broke the school record. “Tyler is the strongest kid per pound in our league and has top three speed,” Lincoln head coach Dustin Patee said. “If he can figure out how to attack while he runs, our offense could be very dangerous. Defensively, he has great ball tracking skills at linebacker and learned to finish physically by the end of the season.” In addition to football and track, Good is also a quality 3-point shooter for the Leopard basketball team. Last spring, he finished sixth in the 100-meter dash at the Class 1A regional track meet and was seventh in the long jump. At the Northern Plains League meet, he placed second in both events. The Leopards will be looking for a big season from Good, and fellow returning starters Jerry Marinhagen, Kenton Myers, Landon O’Hare and Zach Obermueller, as they try to bounce back from last year’s 2-7 record.

Citizens State Bank and Trust Company, with locations in Ellsworth, Lincoln, Delphos, Glasco and Minneapolis, is proud to present the Hometown Proud Student-Athletes feature in this year’s Kansas Pregame Football Preview! For more information about our products and services please visit our website at www.csbanc.com or connect with us on Facebook. Member FDIC

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is in Pittsburg and Crawford County!

By John Baetz, Publisher

#KSQBS

The quarterback position is more important in high school football than ever before. In the “ground and pound” glory days of Kansas high school football the quarterback’s primary role was often to turn and hand off to a speedy tailback and execute a fake to try and pull the defenders away from the ball carrier. I-formation running backs racked up thousands of yards and dozens of touchdowns behind offensive coordinators who ran straight at opposing defenses with dives, leads and toss plays, or the ocassional trap or counter intended to misdirect opposing linebackers. True triple option schemes gave the quarterback more decision making power, but still ultimately resulted in running backs getting most of the carries and scores. Teams like Smith Center, Conway Springs and even 5A Aquinas continue to make their money with option offenses built around big, physical of-

fensive lines and facilitating quarterbacks, but even those teams seemingly rely on the QB as a runner and passer more than in the past. Certainly pioneering coaches like Silver Lake’s CJ Hamilton, Blue Valley’s Steve Rampy (now at Lawrence) and of course Bethany College’s Ted Kessinger expected more from their quarterbacks and used a mix of the run and pass to keep opposing defenses on their toes, but it’s doubtful even they could imagine the expanded role the quarterback would play in the modern Kansas high shool offense. Spread schemes popularized by college coaches like Rich Rodriguez and Urban Meyer are now the norm at both the high school and college level and provide the quarterback seemingly infinite options

to, in the words of legendary Chiefs’ coach Hank Stram, “matriculate the ball down the field.” From the Zone-Read run game to trendy RPO (run-pass option), now more than ever, QBs run the show. In 2018 the state welcomes a host of returning starters to the quarterback position. Many who put up mind boggling statistics and could go down as some of the most productive in history. While record-breaking quarterbacks Graham Mertz (Blue Valley North, 2017-2018) and Carter Putz (2015-2017) are off to pursue Division I dreams - Mertz at Wisconsin, Putz for Notre Dame’s baseball team - QBs from the classes of 2020 and 2021 will try to stamp their own name in the Kansas history books. Read about them starting on the next page.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

QBTY BOWMAN

QB ARLAND BRUCE IV

In 2016, Ty Bowman was a rare freshman starting quarterback. He threw for 834 yards but had zero touchdowns against 12 interceptions for Chanute. “It was definitely a learning experience,” Bowman said. “After that I didn’t get down on myself, I used that as motivation to get better, and I think that’s worked.” Bowman played in just four games as a sophomore and passed for 335 yards with two scores against two interceptions. Last year, though, the left-handed Bowman delivered a very efficient season with 127 of 200 passing for 1,472 yards with a 16/6 TD/ INT ratio. “It’s been a process for sure, coming into my freshman year, I didn’t really have that much experience playing quarterback,” Bowman said. “And yeah, it was kind of rough to start off the year, and I kind of grew it into as the years went on. I think it’s been good for me. I have grown a lot as a person, got way more mature over the years, and just really helped me out in the long run.” Bowman, listed at 6-foot-5, 210 pounds, could play multiple positions in college and has earned offers from Fort Scott, Dodge City, Garden City and Emporia State. Bowman has run 4.66 seconds in the 40-yard dash. “It’s been a crazy journey so far,” he said. “It’s nice knowing that no matter what, I definitely have something Photo by to fall back on now.” Conor Nicholl Bree McReynolds-Baetz

Olathe North opened the 2017 season 1-3. ON changed the offense from Spread to a run-heavy Wildcat look and simplified the defense. The Eagles reeled off six straight wins and finished 7-4. ON went from 57 percent rushing plays in the first month to 86 percent rushing in the last seven contests. The success carried over to 2018 when ON went 9-3, averaged 43.3 points a game and was one of four 6A squads to tally at least 500 points. The Hawks ran the ball on 79 percent of snaps behind standout sophomore quarterback Arland Bruce IV. “In my head, my goal is always to make it further than the year before and take it one step further,” Bruce said. “This year that would be a state championship.” Bruce is the son of former Olathe North star Arland Bruce III, who played at Minnesota and enjoyed a successful football career in the Canadian Football League. The younger Bruce rushed for 819 yards and five scores as a freshman. Bruce IV moved to quarterback as a sophomore after Zac Krause transferred to Olathe West. He completed 94 of 143 passes for 1,209 yards with a 16/3 TD/INT ratio. He also rushed 196 times for 1,379 yards and 19 scores. ON graduated Daymonn Sanchez (2,413 rushing). Bruce IV and Sanchez were both first team all-state. Bruce IV wants to play college football, but expects to make the switch to receiver at the next level.

CHANUTE

OLATHE NORTH

Conor Nicholl

QB NATE BURDETTE

Photo by Bree McReynolds-Baetz

Family. Friends. Community.

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Maranatha Christian Academy dropped down to the 8-Man ranks for the first time in 2018 and enjoyed a four-win improvement to 6-3. The Eagles, which had won seven total games in the previous four years, enjoyed its most wins since a 6-1 record in ’13 that included three victories versus JV teams. The last time Maranatha won more than six games was a 7-2 mark in 2007. Nate Burdette, son of MCA football coach Bryan Burdette, and wide receiver Brock West led an offense that averaged 46.9 points per game, 14th best in 8-Man football. Maranatha earned acclaim from other coaches, including Madison’s Alex McMillian. Madison defeated Maranatha, 32-22 – and permitted just 9.8 points per contest in all other games. “Offensively, they are very good,” McMillian said. Burdette, who missed the final game of the season, completed 94 of 165 passes for 1,478 yards with a 33/8 TD/INT ratio. He led the team with 76 carries for 589 yards and 11 scores. West delivered 60 catches for 1,204 yards and 29 scores. He tied the record for single game receiving scores with eight against Chase County on Sept. 28 in a 62-16 victory. West was nominated for 8-Man Player of the Year by the National Athletic Association of Private Schools. In his career, Burdette has passed for 3,222 yards with a 55/33 TD/INT ratio, along with 795 rushing yards and 12 scores. He has delivered 142 tackles and five intercepPhoto by tions on defense. Conor Nicholl Bree McReynolds-Baetz

Page 40

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 41

QB C.J. CALLAGHAN

QBTANNER CASH

Tim Callaghan has served as head coach at Shawnee Mission West for the last 16 seasons and delivered a 103-63 record. He captured Sunflower League crowns in ’05, ’06, ’08, ’10 and ’12. In ’06, the Vikings achieved a state runner-up showing, and captured the state title in ’12. Tim has four children, three older daughters, and his youngest, son C.J. Since second grade, Tim has coached C.J. Often, Tim led his high school team’s practice, and then immediately had practice for C.J.’s team. “It’d be a long night for him, but he got through it somehow,” C.J. said. C.J. has long enjoyed having his dad as coach, even as SMW has uncharacteristically posted back-to-back 0-9 seasons. “It’s just brought us closer together,” C.J. said. Callaghan, a left-handed thrower listed at 6-foot, 3.5 inches and 215 pounds, has been a starter the last two years. As a sophomore, he completed 38 of 82 passes for 430 yards with a 3/7 TD/INT ratio. Last year, he improved his numbers to 68 of 139 passing for 837 yards with a 9/4 TD/INT ratio. The Vikings scored exactly 14 points in six contests and lost four games by a combined 15 points. SMW improved from 10.6 points per game to 15.6 last year. Though West has struggled the last two seasons, Callaghan has the build and arm of a college level quarterback Photo by Bree McReynolds-Baetz and could be poised for a breakout season. Conor Nicholl

Since an 8-2 mark in ’11, Clearwater has posted records of 4-5, 5-4, 4-7, 3-7, 3-6, 1-8 and a three-win jump to 4-5 last year. Clearwater delivered 23.9 points per contest, a sizable jump from 16.2 points per game the year prior. It marked the most points for the program since 24.3 in ’11. Clearwater ended a five-game losing streak with a 22-18 season-opening road win against Mulvane. The Indians started 4-2 and lost its final three, including a close 35-28 defeat versus Collegiate. Tanner Cash has helped with the Indian turnaround and hopes the best is yet to come. As a sophomore, the 6-foot-2, 190-pound Cash collected 2,000 all-purpose yards. Also a free safety, Cash collected all-league and all-state honors and was one of the few non-senior quarterbacks invited to the Sharp Top Prospect Showcase in late June in Salina. Cash helped with a big turnaround for Clearwater track, which finished tenth in Class 4A. Cash ran on the 1,600-meter relay that finished in sixth place. For this fall, Cash set goals to capture more victories than last season and win in the playoffs. “I want to be a better passer and continue to be a key leader on my team,” Cash said. “I want to make sure the guys are working their hardest. I’ve improved the most in the running game. My running game really stands out.” Cash has had some contact with colleges, including a showcase with Kansas State and Sterling College.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

QBJACK CAUDLE

QB BRADY DINKEL

Todd Caudle won four state championships as quarterback for Midway-Denton’s eight-man dynasty in the ‘80s. Caudle’s older brothers captured multiple state crowns, too. Caudle is the only Top 11 all-classes player in M-D history and played at Kansas. He engineered the run-heavy misdirection trap offense that made M-D famous. Caudle, now the owner of the Caudle Financial Group in Atchison, has watched his son, Jack, quarterback Maur Hill since he was a freshman. In the spring, Todd marveled at the changes between quarterbacking and recruiting from the ‘80s. Todd said “it’s amazing” the difference in recruiting, and that Jack has thrown more passes “than I ever dreamed of.” Jack has shown an excellent football IQ with 1,535 yards and 19 scores as a freshman and 1,701 yards and 23 TDs as a sophomore. He had just 16 interceptions total in those years. “It’s been awesome to learn from him and learn how he did it and try to build off that,” Jack said of his dad. Last season, he posted 1,885 passing yards, and 21/6 TD/ INT ratio as Maur Hill went 5-0 in district play, 8-2 overall and won its first playoff game since 1992. MH averaged 32.5 points per game, No. 12 in the classification. Two years ago, the Ravens were 7-3 and collected 35.3 points a contest, and also went 7-3 with 38.2 points per Photo by game Caudle’s freshman year. Caudle, left-handed, has Bree McReynolds-Baetz had contact with multiple schools, including Wyoming and CN Kansas, where his brother Nick plays Safety.

From ’15-17, St. Francis lost one regular season game under coach Rodney Yates and finished as state runner-up in ’16, the best showing in school history. In 2017, St. Francis finished 7-2, lost in the first round of the playoffs to Spearville and finished the season with just 13 players. Last year, Nick Fawcett, an assistant coach at several places, took over for Yates, who went to Cambridge (Neb.) and is expected to have a top team this fall. Fawcett installed the Single Wing and St. Francis had more players come out with a 24man roster. The Indians weren’t ranked in the preseason, finished 11-1 and lost to eventual champion Central Plains in the sub-state game. Dinkel said Fawcett increased weight room numbers. “He made a good connection with the team,” Dinkel said. “He came in and really got the team involved with each other, and brought a pretty close family bond to the team. It was a lot of fun.” This year, Dinkel enters his third year as a starter after he rushed for 1,049 yards, threw for 388 yards and accounted for 27 total touchdowns last fall. Dinkel is also a standout defensive player and could play safety in college. He recorded 55 tackles with three interceptions last season. SF graduates speedy running back Jordan Raby, who had 1,425 yards and was Sports In Kansas classification Photo by Bree McReynolds-Baetz Offensive Player of the Year. Conor Nicholl

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ST. FRANCIS

QBLANDON EVERETT CANTON -GALVA

Shelby Hoppes had served as a varsity football assistant and junior high head coach for the prior two years at his alma mater. A week before the ’17 season started, Hoppes toook over as head coach. Hoppes looked to the future and had a senior who could have started at quarterback. Instead, Hoppes went with then-sophomore Landon Everett. C-G went 4-5, but quietly averaged 35.6 points a contest, a plus-16.3 per game gain from ’16. It marked the third-biggest 8-Man offensive increase. Last year, the move paid off. An experienced Everett led a C-G squad with no seniors to a 10-2 mark and sub-state runner-up appearance. It marked the first time the school had reached at least the quarterfinals since a runner-up showing in ’91. Everett cleared more than 2,700 offensive yards and was a Sports in Kansas finalist for 8-Man I Offensive Player of the Year. C-G averaged 48.7 points per game. Everett is also a volunteer firefighter and responded to a 2:30 a.m. fire alarm in Galva on the same day the Eagles defeated Lebo, 54-6, in the playoffs. Everett is planning on finishing his EMT certification and getting his fire science license from either Hutchinson or Butler Community Colleges. “Our goal is to be more disciplined and physical this year,” Everett said. “We want to make it to the championship. My Photo by footwork and quickness and overall football IQ are where I’ve Bree McReynolds-Baetz improved the most but those are also the areas I’d like to continue to grow.” Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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QB JORDAN FINNESY

QBBEAU FOSTER

In 2017, Plainville had to replace Hayden Friend, a first team all-state quarterback who led the Cardinals to a state berth. Jordan Finnesy has long showcased his dual threat abilities as a youngster. Then, a sophomore, Finnesy replaced Friend and immediately performed solidly in season-opening games versus Mid-Continent League powers Smith Center and Norton. “Ever since I was a kid running around and throwing,” Finnesy said of his talents. “I think it’s just carried on and grew from there, and it’s definitely improved.” Finnesy finished the season with 1,236 passing and 1,291 rushing yards. Last year, he passed for 1,511 yards and rushed for 956. In each season, Finnesy has accounted for 21 offensive scores and helped Plainville reach the sub-state championship game for fifth-year coach Grant Stephenson. “He’s a great guy,” Finnesy said. “He’s not just our coach. He’s basically a dad to every single one of us, and he has a relationship with every single one of us.” Finnesy was the 3-2-1A champion at 170 pounds last winter and edged out undefeated Mikey Waggoner of Riley County, 5-4, in a tiebreaker in the semifinals. “I am a competitor, and I love competition, and you have got to beat the best,” Finnesy said. Photo by This season, Plainville should again be among the 1A Bree McReynolds-Baetz favorites with Finnesy and senior Jared Casey two of the state’s top players. The Cardinals went 9-3 and averaged 31.8 points per contest last year. Conor Nicholl

In recent years, Dodge City has delivered big offensive numbers but had never managed to play past Week 9. From ’13-17, DC posted records of 3-6, 4-5, 5-4, 5-4 and 3-6. Last season, though, quarterback Beau Foster, offensive threat Ja’iel Johnson and lineman Evan Darville helped the Red Demons win a playoff game and have its most victories since an 11-1 record in 2010, coach Dave Foster’s first year with the program. Dodge City opened the season 2-3 before four straight wins, including a 34-33 road comeback versus Hays High when the Red Demons trailed 20-0 at halftime. In the playoffs, DC beat Junction City, 25-15. Darville signed with Southeast Missouri State, while Johnson graduated after he averaged 28.3 yards per kickoff return and was a key offensive playmaker. Foster returns for his third season under center. As a sophomore, Foster completed 58 of 122 passes for 792 yards with a 7/7 TD/INT ratio. Last year, he delivered 94 of 171 passing for 997 yards with a 10/10 TD/INT mark. He also rushed for 601 yards and nine touchdowns last fall. “I’ve improved the most with the strategy to the game, being able to slow the game down and analyze defenses,” Foster said. “I would still like to get better at staying calm in Photo by every situation and never panic.” Bree McReynolds-Baetz Last year, the Red Demons beat rival Garden City in the Hatchet Game, 27-7, on Oct. 12, Beau’s favorite high school memory. Conor Nicholl

PLAINVILLE

DODGE CITY

QBGABE GARBER SABETHA

Gabe Garber is a Sports In Kansas two-time first team allstate Class 3A outfielder and is leaning toward playing college baseball. On the gridiron, Garber helped the Bluejays defeat Marysville, 7-6, for the ’17 state title. Garber effectively sealed the ‘17 game with an interception in the end zone. Last year, he scored on the game-winning twopoint conversion on the contest’s final play for a Community National Bank 43-42 overtime victory versus Pratt in the 3A “Community Minded...Community Strong!” final. Sabetha has captured two consecuwww.communitynationalbank.net tive state titles in football, baseball and golf. 15 East Main Street Sabetha, KS 66534 Garber said his favorite memory was looking (785) 284-3416 at the official and seeing his conversion was Member FDIC good. “In the moment I thought I made it, but I wasn’t sure,” Garber said. Garber rushed for 668 yards and 14 scores as a sophomore running back, and then switched to QB last fall. Last year, he guided the Bluejays to a 13-0 mark for a “Community Minded...Community Strong!” squad that rushed for 312 yards a contest. Garber completwww.communitynationalbank.net ed 58 of 90 passes for 990 yards with a 13/1 TD/INT ratio. 15 East 15 Main Street He rushed 191 times for 1,155 yards and 18 scores. East Main Street Since graduated Joe Gruber led with 201 rushes for 1,437 Sabetha, KS 66534 Sabetha, KS 66534 yards and also delivered 18 scores. Sabetha also won ti(785) 284-3416 (785) 284-3416 tles in ’93 and ’97. Member FDIC “Our goals are always to get better and win the next game,” Garber said. “We don’t want to be focused on Member FDIC Photo by state. It starts with practice in the summer. Obviously our Bree McReynolds-Baetz Conor Nicholl goal is to always win state.”

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Page 44

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

QB JAXSON GEBHARDT

QBPARKER GOODEN

Jaxson Gebhardt started out as a ball boy in second grade for his father, Mitch, the veteran Southeast of Saline football coach. Jaxson watched as the Trojans posted four straight 7-3 seasons and reached the playoffs each year. In ’17, SES tumbled back to 4-5. Jaxson started two games at quarterback. Last year, with Jaxson as the full-time starting quarterback as a sophomore, the Trojans went 8-2. SES had a 21-point second half comeback in a 23-21 district win against Riley County, and then fell to the Falcons, 33-14, in the postseason. RC was eventually 2A state runner-up. “Not a lot of people expected a lot from us, so it was nice to kind of show people what we can do,” Jaxson said. Jaxson completed 113 of 209 passes for 1,393 yards with a 10/12 TD/INT ratio. He was first team all-league quarterback and honorable mention all-state. Gebhardt rushed 133 times for 509 yards and five scores. “The bond is really good between me and my dad on the field,” Jaxson said. “He is obviously coach to me, and at home, we can sit down and have a normal conversation about football, and never have grudges ever.” Jaxson is the oldest of four boys. This fall, his twin brothers, Photo by Jake and Luke, will be freshmen. Bree McReynolds-Baetz “When we get home, it will just be kind of cool to share some of the stories that we have during practices and games,” he said. Conor Nicholl

Scott City’s Parker Gooden has spent two seasons as the Beaver starting QB and helped the Beavers to 40.2 points per game last season, fourth-best in Class 3A. SC is 11-1 and 10-1 the last two years. As a sophomore, Gooden passed for more than 1,100 yards and finished in the top-10 for SC in alltime single season passing yards. He accounted for 13 scores, 12 passing. In 2018, he missed two contests with injury and finished with just under 1,000 passing yards and more than 250 rushing yards. Gooden earned second team all-conference and Sports in Kansas honorable mention non-senior team. In spite of his skill as a quarterback, this year he may need to make the switch to running back in the Beavers’ run first Wing T offense. Gooden is active in the community. He plays the piano at church and has competed at state piano festivals and has volunteered on mission trips. His dad, Dr. Joshua Gooden, was raised on a farm near Scott City and is an eye doctor in SC. Parker is one of four boys and would like to study medicine. He is a solid A and B student and would like to play college football, with a dream of playing Division I. “Every year the goal is to win state,” Gooden said. “I Photo by want to have fun with my teammates. I’ve improved the Bree McReynolds-Baetz most with being a better teammate and trying to help younger guys.” Conor Nicholl

QBHUDSON GRAY

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Beloit’s Hudson Gray enjoyed a highly promising start to his ’18 season before he suffered a season-ending fibula injury in a 56-18 victory at Minneapolis in Week 3. The Trojans averaged 38.7 points per contest and opened 2-1. The Trojans, finished 4-3 and delivered 25.3 points per game after Gray’s injury. Gray completed 26 of 42 passes for 485 yards with a 6/0 TD/INT ratio. He rushed 19 times for 144 yards and two scores. Without Gray, Beloit’s passing numbers were 31 of 69 for 601 yards with a 6/8 TD/INT ratio. Grant Arasmith, who rushed for 504 yards and seven scores, was the starter after Gray went out. Gray enjoyed a solid sophomore season with 60 of 116 passing for 992 yards with a 19/6 TD/INT ratio. Beloit is 12-7 under third-year coach Brad Gober after a long run with Greg Koenig. The Trojans have been one of the state’s most consistent programs with winning seasons every year since a 4-5 mark in ’04. Gray is strong for his size and recorded a 305 pound clean in end of summer testing. “I want to get better every day, I have to work hard to help the team make it as far as we can,” Gray said. “My accuracy and athleticism and my all-around strength is where I’ve improved the most. My arm strength still needs some work as well as my accuracy can always improve.” Gray would like to play college football and said he is Photo by Bree McReynolds-Baetz “starting to build some relationships” with coaches. CN

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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QB GARRETT HARMISON

QBKAMBLE HAVERKAMP

Riley County’s Steve Wagner has led the Falcons for 35 years. RC has long been a consistent program and relied heavily on the run. In ’17, the Falcons passed for just 311 yards and posted a 7-3 season. Then, Wagner decided to change to the Spread offense. Riley County passed much more frequently with first-year starter Garrett Harmison. “It’s more fun to play that style of ball, and it seems to be the trend,” Wagner said. “And we wanted to make some adjustments, and he is kind of a classic drop-back quarterback, but he has the ability to run some.” Harmison delivered a memorable season with 139 of 231 passing for a school record 1,930 yards along with 23 touchdowns against 10 interceptions. In the state quarterfinals, Riley County enjoyed a remarkable 40-34 overtime comeback victory versus rival Silver Lake. It marked the first time Riley County defeated the Eagles since ’96, also the last occasion the Falcons reached the state semifinals. “He has all the attributes that you want in a quarterback,” Wagner said. Riley County trailed 34-21 with two minutes left but Harmison threw a pair of touchdown passes to force overtime. Then, RC scored and stopped Silver Lake on fourth down. Harmison threw for 353 yards and completed 24 passes, a single game Photo by school mark. Bree McReynolds-Baetz In the state semifinals, the Falcons defeated Humboldt, 46-16, and then lost, 27-0, to Phillipsburg. Conor Nicholl

Centralia’s Single Wing offense has long produced excellent quarterbacks for veteran coach Larry Glatczak, himself a former Panther signal caller. Known as the “spinner back” in Centralia’s system, Kamble Haverkamp first played the position as a freshman in 2016 when starter Trenton Flentie went down with injury midway through the year. Centralia encountered a number of injuries, started multiple young players and slipped to 1-8 against a challenging schedule. As a freshman, Haverkamp performed admirably in Flentie’s place with 538 rushing yards and delivered 250 receiving yards. In ’17, Haverkamp returned to slot as Flentie enjoyed a Kpreps all-state season with 1,297 yards and 17 scores for an 8-3 team. In ’18, Haverkamp shifted to spinner and he too collected Kpreps all-state with 1,470 rushing, 700 passing and 31 scores accounted for as the Panthers again went 8-3. “We were a lot better the next year, and it’s kind of been the same way since,” Haverkamp said. “Everybody is trying to get Centralia back to where it was.” Like many Centralia students, Haverkamp has strong ties to the area and grew up watching the Panthers. Centralia delivered titles in ’09, ’11 and ’13 and was second in ’12. “You grow up watching that and you know that’s what you want to do, so you work as hard as you possibly can and everybody around you is working as hard as they can,” Photo by Bree McReynolds-Baetz Haverkamp said. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

QB KIPP JASPER

QB REAGAN JONES

Troy alum Derek Jasper has continually churned out excellent offenses, quarterbacks and skill players in his six years with the Trojans. Jasper is 50-17 as head coach with a semifinal showing in ’14, a runner-up in ’15 and a state title in ’16. Those are the best three finishes in school history. Jasper has enjoyed first team all-state quarterbacking from Tristan Speer and Reid Greaser, and then had significant graduation losses for ’17. Derek’s son, Kipp, had been around the program since he was young and was previously a manager. He took over as starting QB as a sophomore and helped Troy to a 4-5 season with an honorable mention all-state fall. “That was a big jump for me, but stayed confident in myself and got it done,” Kipp said. As a sophomore, he completed 104 of 196 passing for 1,366 yards with 15 scores. He also rushed 81 times for 377 yards and two TDs. Troy has averaged 24.6 and 29.5 points per game the last two falls, the latter ranking just outside the top-10 in Class 1A. “You are obviously expected to be good, just because our quarterbacks in the past were, just go out and give it your all, and compete,” Kipp said. Last year, Troy had a much more experienced team, and the Trojans went 6-4. Jasper again delivered an honorable Photo by mention all-state season with 85 of 171 passing for 1,587 Bree McReynolds-Baetz yards and 19 scores. He rushed 120 times for 585 yards and seven TDs. Conor Nicholl

As a sophomore, Reagan Jones had a solid season for Andover Central with 1,537 passing yards and a 17/15 TD/INT ratio. Jones then transferred to Wichita Northwest, the state’s No. 1 offense the last three years with multiple state records. Last fall, Jones piloted the Grizzlies’ high-tempo offense to another spectacular season with a statebest 726 points. “Our goal is definitely a state title, we came up short last year, it all starts during the summer in the weight room,” Jones said. Northwest went 12-1 and finished as state runner-up, tying ’96 for the best finish in school annals. He completed 118 of 206 passes for 2,414 yards with a 31/5 TD/INT ratio and set the school record for single season passing TDs. Northwest had three rushers with at least 1,200 yards, including Jones who had 166 carries for 1,393 yards and 20 scores. The Grizzlies defeated rival Bishop Carroll, 23-22, in Week 1, and then 84-67 in the quarterfinals and tallied the most single game points in school history. Jones was offered by University of North Dakota. According to Jones’ Twitter, he has been laser clocked running a 4.41 in the 40-yard dash with a 3.7 GPA and a 22 ACT. Northwest has enjoyed several great seasons, including sub-state in ’17 and quarterfinals in ’15 with coach Steve Martin. Jones took a knee to clinch the wild 67-60 semifinals Photo by victory versus Maize. Bree McReynolds-Baetz “I was in tears,” Jones said of the victory. “We will be back.” Conor Nicholl

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QBJACKSON KAVANAGH

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Salina Central entered 2018 with 18 straight losses and a new coach in Mark Sandbo. The Mustangs enjoyed one of the biggest turnarounds in Kansas last season with a 7-3 mark. QB Jackson Kavanagh, now a senior, collected honorable mention all-state honors. He and Taylon Peters, one of the state’s top running backs, and a Washburn signee, helped the offense average 31.7 points per contest, up from 17 points a game two years ago. Kavanagh is the son of former Kansas State QB Brian Kavanagh, an assistant coach at Central. He split time with Brogen Richardson two years ago before earning the starting role. Kavanagh enjoyed several standout performances, including 11 of 20 passing for 210 yards with two TDs against one interception in the season-opening 44-7 win versus Goddard-Eisenhower. A performance Kavanagh called his favorite moment. “The win brought life to the team, program, and community,” he said. Kavanagh helped the Mustangs end a seven-game skid in the annual Mayor’s Cup against Salina South with a 27-3 victory. He threw a pair of scores in the win. Overall, Kavanagh completed 98 of 194 passes for 1,510 yards with an 18/9 TD/ INT ratio, along with 129 carries for 362 yards and two scores. He has been to junior days at Missouri Western, Kansas State and a camp at South Dakota State. “I definitely want the opportunity to play football at the next level,” he said. Photo by Kavanagh listed his strengths as toughness and decision Bree McReynolds-Baetz making, though added he believes he can improve on his decision making even more. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

QB COLLIN KOESTER

QBCALEB LAMBERT

Conway Springs finished 10-1 and averaged 41.6 points per contest. The Cardinals lost, 25-24, to eventual champion Phillipsburg in the state quarterfinals. CS finished second in the final Kpreps Class 2A poll. The Cardinals faced the No. 14 toughest schedule out of 48 Class 2A squads, according to Prep Power Index. The Cardinals delivered multiple signature victories, including 22-8 against Hutchinson Trinity in Week 4, and two wins versus Chaparral, 53-23, in the regular season and 21-14 in the postseason. Those squads combined for a 16-2 mark when they didn’t play Conway Springs. Quarterback Collin Koester, who earned honorable mention all-state by the Topeka Capital Journal and Wichita Eagle, led the offense in the strong season. CS, long known for its running game, delivered 342 rushing yards a contest. Koester, now a senior, had 103 total yards and a rushing TD versus Phillipsburg as the Cardinals outgained the Panthers, 371-292. Koester finished with 92 total yards and a passing score versus Trinity. Versus Chaparral, Koester rushed for 138 yards in the second meeting, and ran for 123 yards and three TDs and passed for a score in the first contest. As well, Koester also cleared 110 rushing yards in wins over Wichita Independent and Cheney. “Our goal is to go to state, win our league, and win our Photo by district,” Koester said. “I’ve improved the most being able Bree McReynolds-Baetz to run the ball. I run more than I throw. I want to improve throwing the ball and improve my overall game.”

Hutch-Central Christian’s Caleb Lambert has football in his blood. His father, Chuck Lambert, is a Smith Center graduate and former Sterling College coach. His uncles are Andy and Tim. Andy served as the head coach at Sterling prior to Chuck and is now the head coach at Division II Southern Nazarene in Oklahoma. Tim is currently the head coach at Smoky Valley and also had successful stints at Concordia and St. Francis. Even his grandfather, Dennis, spent time as a football coach and his uncle John is an assistant on staff at Smith Center. “It’s just been in my genes,” Lambert said. When Chuck left coaching and accepted a pastor position in Hutchinson two years ago, Caleb transferred to Central Christian. In his first fall with the Cougars last year, Caleb delivered a massive offensive season for the perpetually high-octane program. Since returning to KSHSAA in ’16, CC is 26-6 and averages 62.8 points a game. “It was really tough for me,” Caleb said of the move. “But I realized that it was the best choice for him, and best choice for my family, ultimately, and I just kind of prayed, and I just trusted in the Lord.” Lambert passed for 2,055 yards with a 38/7 TD/INT ratio, and led the team with 106 carries for 798 yards and 22 scores for a 7-3 squad. He hopes to lead the Cougars, who return all their skill players, to even more success this season. Photo by “We realize that it’s not just going to be handed to us,” Lambert said. “We have got to work hard, and we have Bree McReynolds-Baetz CN been working super hard in the weight room.”

CONWAY SPRINGS

Conor Nicholl

QB TEVEN MCKELVEY GARDNER-EDGERTON

Last season, Ryan Cornelsen took over the Gardner-Edgerton football program after he had enjoyed great success with La Crosse, Hays High and Hutchinson. G-E went 0-9 in ’17. QB Teven McKelvey said Cornelsen told the team to “believe” and “trust the process.” G-E, led by the state’s No. 1 rushing offense, engineered the biggest turnaround in Sunflower League history and finished 10-1. McKelvey said Cornelsen “knows what he’s talking about” and is “not your average coach.” “We ended up being way better than we thought we were going to be,” McKelvey said. The Trailblazers rushed for 390 yards a game. McKelvey was primarily a rushing threat with 141 carries for 1,254 yards and 23 TDs. He completed 16 of 28 passes for 404 yards with a 6/3 TD/INT ratio. “You see a hole, and you just hit it,” McKelvey said. “And it was nice, because it was not even just the linemen, the backs, too. They carried out the fakes, and they went and blocked for me, and it was just fun.” In late July, McKelvey announced his verbal commitment to the University of South Dakota, where he’ll likley change positions. But first he has some big goals for his senior year. “Hopefully a state championship if I am being honest here,” McKelvey said. “We have the potential to do it. We have been working a lot this summer, and we believe coach Cornelsen now. He is telling us we could be drastically better, which I believe Photo by him, because he told us that last year and look what hap- Bree McReynolds-Baetz pened.” Conor Nicholl

CENTRAL CHRISTIAN

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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QB KADE MELVIN

QB JACK MOELLERS

Kade Melvin is the oldest son of longtime Norton coach Lucas Melvin, in his 23rd year with the Bluejay program. Kade has spent his “whole life” on the sidelines and helping with the program. Norton is one of the state’s more tradition-laden programs, including a 93-43 record in coach Melvin’s 12 seasons as head coach. “Seeing all the amazing players and wanting to be out there,” Kade said of his connection to Bluejay football. As a sophomore, Kade was Norton’s leading receiver with 24 catches for 400 yards. Jace Ruder started at QB for a fourth straight season and delivered more than 1,000 rushing/passing yards for a 7-3 team. Ruder is currently playing QB at the University of North Carolina and was one of Kansas’ highest rated recruits ever. Kade learned from Ruder, along with standout running back/sprinter Tevin Petrie and Ryan Johnson, a solid receiver and state champion wrestler. “It’s just mainly choosing the right role models, looking up to the right guys,” Kade said. Last season, Kade became the starting QB and leader for an inexperienced Bluejay squad that slipped to 4-5. “Just lead by example. Like doing the right things, bePhoto by ing a good sportsmanship guy, kind of trying to help all Bree McReynolds-Baetz my teammates out,” Kade said Kade rushed for 569 yards with eight TDs, and completed 96 of 180 passes for 1,419 yards and a 12/7 TD/ INT ratio. This season, Norton returns over 80 percent of its rushing yards, 65 percent of its receptions and five of the top-six tacklers. CN

Since Tom Radke took over St. James Academy in 2011, he had posted records of 4-5, 7-2, 6-4, 6-3, 9-2 and 6-5. Last year, the Thunder dropped back to 2-8 but still averaged 19 points per game and had a solid passing game with Jack Moellers. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound Moellers, who was offered by FCS Butler in early summer, completed 101 of 178 passes for 1,530 yards with an 11/8 TD/ INT ratio. He rushed 96 times for 411 yards and four scores. Overall, St. James completed 117 passes and threw for 1,795 yards, the most under Radke. SJA delivered an 80.8 passer rating; Radke has only had one season with a passer rating above 88.5. In the season opener, Moellers threw for 221 yards and a pair of scores and rushed for 117 yards in a 41-20 victory versus Blue Valley Northwest. Moellers has a 28 ACT and is also a two-time second team all-state basketball player and collected first team Eastern Kansas League honors last year. Moellers suffered a knee injury in the offseason, but expects to be able to play this fall. “My main goal is to help the team win a state championship,” Moellers said. “I’ve improved the most with decision making. Photo by I used to think I could do whatever I want. I need to be able to Bree McReynolds-Baetz make the best decision with the amount of time I have. I want to improve with my consistency and footwork. Sometimes I get sloppy with my footwork.” Conor Nicholl

NORTON

QB BRANDON SCHROEDL

ST. JAMES ACADEMY

MARYSVILLE

Brandon Schroedl remembers coming into the Marysville program in junior high. At that point, the Bulldogs had lost 32 straight contests. Dustin Heuer, a graduate of nearby powerhouse Hanover and a longtime coach in Nebraska, has transformed the Bulldogs. Marysville went 4-6, 7-3 and then 12-2 behind first team all-state quarterback Jack Blumer. “He’s turned the program around, big, huge! Not only on the football field, in the weight room,” Schroedl said. “He has changed our high school programs tremendously.” Schroedl took over for Blumer and enjoyed a solid year with 113 of 163 passing for 1,725 yards and an 18/8 TD/INT ratio. He was also the team’s second-leading rusher with 82 carries for 346 yards and three scores. Marysville finished 8-3 and averaged 33.8 points per game, eighth-best in 48-team Class 3A. Schroedl learned a lot from Blumer in Marysville’s read-heavy, Spread offense. He was very consistent and completed at least half his passes in every contest. Most notably, he threw for 191 yards and two scores in a 36-14 win against power Topeka Hayden, the first meeting between the schools since ’04. “Watching his reads, his footsteps, basically trying to imitate him,” Schroedl, now a senior, said of Blumer. “It’s hard to do it with such a great quarterback.” This season, the Bulldogs return multiple weapons, includPhoto by ing running back Atreyau Hornbeak, who delivered 1,170 Bree McReynolds-Baetz rushing and 17 scores as a junior. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

QB KYLER SEMRAD

QBCOLIN SHIELDS

Kyler Semrad has enjoyed a very busy summer with QB showcases and a full slate of baseball. Kyler has traveled around the Midwest with his father, Erik, the assistant principal and A.D. at Goddard Middle School. By late June, Kyler had played baseball or participated in a football showcase in multiple stops, including twice in Salina, at the University of Kansas, University of Oklahoma, Southern Methodist in Dallas, Wichita State and Northwestern Oklahoma State. Kyler said the road time features an array of activities, including podcasts and “lots of good music” and “lots of good naps.” Overall, though, Semrad, one of the rising stars in the junior class, has enjoyed the time with his father. “Spending a lot of hours with your dad, which is pretty special, so definitely take advantage of those,” Semrad said. In baseball, Semrad has played multiple positions but moved to right field this summer. In football, Semrad played some quarterback as a freshman and then stepped in as the full-time starter as a sophomore. He threw for 1,963 yards, a 14/12 TD/INT ratio and helped in playoff comebacks against Wellington and McPherson. Goddard was 4A runner-up in to Bishop Miege under first-year coach Tom Beason, a former asPhoto by sistant. Beason collected 4A Coach of the Year honors Bree McReynolds-Baetz by multiple outlets. Semrad has posted a 4.66 in the 40, stands 6-1, 185 and has a 4.2 GPA. Conor Nicholl

Brent Pfeifer has served as Maize South’s football coach since the school opened in 2009. The Mavericks went 4-6 and 5-5 in the first two years of varsity competition, 2010 and ’11, and then won at least eight games every season for the next six falls. Last year, Maize South opened 0-3 and averaged just 12.3 points per contest. Then, the Mavericks won six straight contests, including a pair of one-point victories and another four-point win. In the winning streak, the Mavericks delivered 29.3 points a contest. The Mavericks fell, 35-0, to Maize in the playoffs and went 6-4. Quarterback Colin Shields spearheaded the turnaround with a 64 percent completion rate in the winning streak. Overall, he threw for 1,406 yards with a 12/3 TD/INT ratio. Shields, one of the top junior quarterbacks, has attended showcases at Southwestern Oklahoma and Iowa State. He carries a 3.92 GPA and a 24 ACT. Shields was also an honorable mention all-league selection on the baseball team at first base. “My goal is to improve every day and build a relationship with the team, I want to continue to be a leader,” Shields said. “I’ve improved most with understanding the offense and being able to break down defenses. I’d like to continue to improve with my accuracy. Last year it kind of killed some of our drives.” Shields’ best memory came in the 21-20 Week 5 road win Photo by versus Andover Central. Maize South went 86 yards in the final minute. He threw a 50-yard pass and a 36-yard Bree McReynolds-Baetz game-winning touchdown. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

K A N S A S W E S L E YA N U N I V E R S I T Y

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ELI SMITH West Elk High School • Three-time All-KCAC performer • Offensive Tackle

JAKE CURRAN Garden City High School • 2015 KCAC Player of the Year • Two-time All-KCAC performer • Quarterback

MITCH KUFAHL Onaga High School • Three-time 1st Team All-KCAC performer • Tight End

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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WEIGHTING GAME

The weight room fuels success on the gridiron!

With the birth of modern college football weight training under strength coaching legend Boyd Epley at the University of Nebraska in the early 1970s the football offseason training regiment changed, not only for every college program in the country, but eventually at the high school level. Now, weight training and football (and for that matter most other sports) are synonymous. While in the early days of strength training coaches carried concerns that musclebound athletes would be slower and more susceptible to injury. Years of improved performance as a result of work in the weight room has demonstrated that strength training programs are the key to speed and power development and injury prevention and may be the single most important factor in the success of a football program. In the following features Kansas Pregame will take a look at some of the state’s strongest and most athletic players who developed those traits thanks in large part to their commitment to work in the weight room. The features are a look at not just the biggest and strongest players in the state, but players, that while they may be shorter or lighter, have achieved maximum results and

are pound-for-pound among the strongest in Kansas. Certainly these are just a few of the literally hundreds of athletes in the state who have posted impressive numbers in the squat, clean, bench, 40 yard dash, or vertical jump, and Kansas Pregame would like to hear of other impressive weight room performances. Please e-mail suggestions for next year’s coverage to kansaspregame@gmail.com. Thanks to Sharp Performance and Rack Performance for their continued sponsorship of the Weighting Game feature! Sharp Performance is among the top athletic performance training centers in the entire Midwest, and their new facility in Salina was host to both the Weighting Game and #KSQBS photo shoots. For more information about Sharp Performance - with locations in Salina, and Concordia - visit www.sharp-performance.com. Rack Performance is a Kansas based provider of workout management applications that makes organizing workouts for athletic programs more efficient and effective. Learn why more than 600 schools nationwide utilize Rack Performance and how it can help your athletic program by visiting www.rackperformance.com.

Sharp Performance trains elite athletes and individuals across Kansas and the entire Midwest from their locations in Salina and Concordia. Their brand new, state-of-the-art gym at 131 S. Santa Fe is at the center of the massive downtown Salina restoration and beautification project. And their facility in downtown Concordia, now just over two years old, is one of the best equipped gyms in north central Kansas. CEO Jake Sharp and his team of professional trainers - including David Leonard and Cale Sharp - have the answer to your fitness and performance questions, the equipment to help you achieve your goals and the commitment to see any program through to completion. SP trains prep, college and professional athletes, and everyday Kansans trying to live and perform their best. For more information find them on social media or online at www.sharp-performance.com.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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DOMENIC BEVILACQUA ST. MARY’S COLGAN

St. Mary’s Colgan’s Domenic Bevilacqua was forced into playing time as a freshman due to injuries. Head coach Shawn Seematter says he hasn’t been able to get him off the field since. Bevilacqua loves to compete in everything he does, Photos by whether it’s on the football Bree McReynolds-Baetz field where he excels at fullback and defensive tackle, or in the weight room where the junior has maxes of 320 on bench, 435 on squat, and 225 in clean. “Dom is a beast in the weight room because of his passion and work ethic,” Seematter said. “He is great for our program because he is about as selfless as they come.” Bevilacqua loves the weight room because it allows him to get better while competing against himself. “It’s a place to prepare for team sports, but also a place where I try to set and beat my own personal goals,” Bevilacqua said. Bevilacqua helped lead St. Mary’s Colgan to a 9-3 record and a trip to the 1A semifinals in 2018, where the Panthers fell 14-0 to Olpe. Bevilacqua had six rushing touchdowns on the season and 353 yards on only 46 carries. On defense, Bevilacqua recorded 21 tackles, three of them being for loss. Bevilacqua has set high goals for himself and for his team this season. “My personal goal is to have over 1,000 yards rushing,” Bevilacqua said. “Our team goal is to win a state championship.” Gallagher Martin

HUNTER BOONE

GARRETT BURNS

PRAIRIE VIEW

CENTRAL CHRISTIAN

Hunter Boone is a big reason why the Prairie View Buffaloes went 8-2 last season and won their district and the Pioneer League. At running back, Boone rushed for 1,114 yards and nine touchdowns; he averaged nearly eight yards a carry. At linebacker, Boone recorded 89 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, along with an interception and a fumble recovery. Boone was first-team all-league and first-team all-state at linebacker by the Topeka-Capital Journal. At 5-10, 182 pounds, Boone has maxes of 275 on bench, 385 on squat, and 245 on clean. Boone also runs a 4.51 40 and has a 27.2 inch vertical. Boone wants to repeat his success on the field and continue to strive for excellence in the weight room. “My favorite part of the weight room is competing and getting better,” Boone said. “My goals for football are to be a returning all-state linebacker and rush for over 1,000 yards again.” Prairie View head coach Kyle Littrell says Boone is the kind of athlete who leads by example. “Hunter has a tremendous work ethic that rubs off on the rest of the team,” Littrell said. “Toughness is the major quality that makes him a key player for our program. If we had 11 of him, I don’t think we would ever lose a game.” Boone also excels on the wrestling mat and is coming off a fifth-place finish in the 170 pound class at 4A State Wrestling. Gallagher Martin

Conn/from page 21_______ Corcoran/from page 22__

Conn’s first year starting was last fall at left tackle, a position he expects to play again this season. Last year, he helped Derby finish 13-0 and average 44.5 points per contest. Conn opened holes for 316 rushing yards a game, including 1,836 yards by returning All-State back Tre Washington. “I am truly blessed to be able to have all these people in my life,” Conn said. “…“I hope one day (Pinaire) will be able to come to my games and he can see my kids. I enjoy working with him. He is a great coach.” Conn, who has squatted 495 pounds for five reps and cleaned 275 for five, said Derby creates “more of a team atmosphere,” words echoed by many Panther coaches and players. “Family atmosphere that we are willing to play for each other, not just for one guy,” Conn said.

wanted to win. That’s what I really look for in her, and she has just got that killer instinct.” Hayden has taught at Free State several years and serves as the Student Council’s assistant sponsor. She teaches modern and ancient world history and had Turner in class as a sophomore. “She really pushed me to be the person that I am today,” Turner said, “...she’s really a day shifter, someone that can help motivate you to do something, no matter what it is..., an awesome lady.” Lisher coached for 37 years in Kansas and served as the only coach in Free State history. The Firebirds finished 10-1 last season, are 20-2 in the last two and 148-85 in Lisher’s tenure. Kevin Stewart is the new coach. Corcoran said Lisher, who has coached multiple Power 5 signings, “helped out quite a bit” in the recruitment process.

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Garrett Burns is as strong a lifter as you’ll find in the 8-Man ranks. Competing in the 165 pound division at last year’s state powerlifting meet, Burns broke the 8-Man record in the clean (300), squat (460), and total weight (1,035). According to Hutch-Central Christian head football coach Lee Smith, Burns is now up to 174 pounds. Burns now has maxes of 295 on bench, 475 on squat, and 320 on clean. Smith says Burns is not afraid of hard work. “Garrett is a hard worker in the weight room,” Smith said. “He also dedicated himself to improving his hang clean form — it was his worst lift as a sophomore, but from the fall to the spring of his sophomore year, he revamped his form and shot up about 90 pounds in clean in five months. His squat has consistently went up throughout his high school career.” On the field Lee calls Burns “the unquestioned leader” on defense. Last season, Burns led the team with 43 solo tackles and 8.44 tackles per game. He’s a threat on offense as well. Burns rushed for 10 touchdowns and 446 yards while also catching seven touchdowns on only 14 receptions as a receiver. “Garrett loves contact and is a punishing runner and tackler,” Smith said. “Looking for him to continue playing great football during his senior year.” Burns says his favorite part about football is the contact and his goals are to help Central Christian win a state title. GM

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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ISIAH CORONADO

GARRET DALINGHAUS

HUMBOLDT

Humboldt’s Isiah Coronado hasn’t always been a beast in the weight room, but through hard work and dedication he has become a role model within the program. According to Humboldt head coach Logan Wyrick, Photos by Coronado fell in love with Bree McReynolds-Baetz the gains. “Isiah has shown dedication in the weight room since he began lifting consistently in high school,” Wyrick said. “I believe it’s something he’s always enjoyed, but the real turning point came when he started to see his core lifts go up and seeing himself get stronger.” Coronado played wide receiver and d-back for the Cubs and was a key player for a team that enjoyed an undefeated regular season and an 11-1 record last year with a berth in the 2A semifinals. He may switch to running back and linebacker this fall. At 5-10 and just 145 pounds Coronado has maxes of 225 pounds on bench, an impressive 445 on squat and 215 in the clean. Additionally, he has a 4.6 40 and a vertical of 32 inches. Coronado’s steady progression in the weight room and on the field has set a good example for younger athletes at Humboldt. “The younger athletes can look to him not only because of the success he has in the weight room, but also because the majority of his success has come from hard work and wanting to better himself,” Wyrick said. Coronado says his goals for this is to win a state championship. Gallagher Martin

HUNTER ENGLE

FRANKFORT

Frankfort’s Garret Dalinghaus is a true two-way workhorse. A starter since his freshman season, his career numbers tell you why. At running back, Dalinghaus is closing in on 2,200 career yards to go along with 37 TDs. At linebacker, Dalinghaus has 250 career tackles and six INTs. Dalinghaus is a lean, muscular 6-feet tall and 166 pounds. His numbers in the weight room could be those of someone much heavier. Dalinghaus has a max of 255 on bench, 365 on squat, and an impressive 295 in the clean. He took third place in the 165 pound division at the KEMFA State Meet this spring and his maxes listed here are a considerable increase from that meet. Frankfort football head coach Nick Anderson says Dalinghaus is one of a kind in the weight room. “Garret is successful in the weight room because he has made it a priority for many years,” Anderson said. “His consistency and dedication to making himself a better athlete has been better than anyone else’s during my time at Frankfort.” Dalinghaus led Frankfort to a 7-3 record last year and the team’s first playoff win since 2011. With Dalinghaus leading the way on offense and defense, the Wildcats could be in store for their best season this decade. “Each year we have asked more and more of Garret and he has always delivered,” Anderson said. “This year has the opportunity to be special for he and his teammates.” GM

Proud to support the Madison Bulldogs

MADISON

Madison’s Hunter Engle has already made a name for himself on the field and in the weight room in his two years with the program. As a sophomore last year, Engle recorded 46 tackles and five sacks on his way to a unanimous first-team All-Lyon County League selection. Engle also earned honorable mention all-state status from both the Wichita Eagle and the Topeka Capital-Journal. On offense, Engle scored five touchdowns on only 35 carries and totaled 332 yards. Entering his junior season, Engle has a bright future ahead of him, which can be credited to his effort in the weight room. Engle, is compact at 5-10, 195 pounds, but moves heavy weight with a max squat of 400 pounds to go along with a max of 240 on bench and 300 on clean. Madison coach Alex McMillian says younger guys look up to Engle in both the weight room and on the field. “Hunter works his butt off in the weight room; never skips reps and holds his teammates accountable,” McMillian said. “He loves the game of football and plays the game with an extreme amount of passion and emotion.” Engle says he loves getting better in the weight room with his friends and teammates. “I just love the atmosphere and all the hard work going on,” Engle said. “There isn’t anything like going for a new max with everyone hyping you up.” Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

KENNY FEHRMAN WELLINGTON

Wellington junior Kenny Fehrman is as impressive as they come in the weight room, and he’s only going to get better over the next two seasons. At 6-2, 235, Fehrman is an imposing figure who commands double teams along Photos by the defensive line and has Bree McReynolds-Baetz the strength the Crusaders coaching staff looks to run behind in their offense. Fehrman has maxes of 370 on bench, 460 on squat, and 320 on clean, and the numbers were climbing as this issue went to press in early August. His impressive weight room numbers can be attributed to many things, including a strong commitment and work ethic, according to Wellington football coach Zane Aguilar. “Kenny does an amazing job staying on task in the weight room,” Aguilar said. “He has committed to taking care of his body by changing his eating habits and developing a more reasonable sleep routine. He continues to push himself to the limit everyday.” On the football field, Fehrman recorded four sacks and forced two fumbles last season and also anchors the offensive line. “He’s quick off the ball and good at reading initial steps,” Aguilar said. “The nice thing is he leads by example, showing the way for the underclassmen.” Fehrman is also a standout on the wrestling mat where he took third place in the 4A state meet at 220 pounds last year as a sophomore. He broke the school record for pins in a season with 25. Gallagher Martin

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JOSEPH FERGUSON THUNDER RIDGE

DEMETRIO FLORES SOUTHWESTERN HEIGHTS

Thunder Ridge linebacker Joseph Ferguson isn’t shy when it comes to his favorite thing about football. “I love hitting people,” Ferguson said. Seeing the hard work payoff in the weight room is his favorite part of lifting weights. “I love the pump that you get from lifting and lifting with my partner,” Ferguson said. “I also love seeing the results after a couple months of lifting either for strength, hypertrophy, or both.” Ferguson squats over 500 pounds which he uses to his advantage. To go along with a 505 squat, the 5-9, 200 pound senior also has maxes of 320 on bench and 265 on clean. Ferguson recorded 92 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions last year — one of his two interceptions was a 40-yard pick six. Those numbers helped him earn honorable mention all-state honors. Ferguson hopes to improve those numbers this year. “My goals for this season are to get over 100 tackles, to be able to play without letting my ankle slow me down, and to get as close to state as possible,” Ferguson said. Thunder Ridge head coach Joel Struckhoff says Ferguson is the definition of hard work and is as selfless as they come. “The kid will play whatever position is needed and is not concerned about being in the spotlight,” Struckhoff said. “One of my best team players and a huge reason for our success last year.” Gallagher Martin

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According to Southwestern Heights head coach Matt Bell, there is no harder worker on the team than senior Demetrio Flores. “Nobody in our program has worked harder to become a better athlete in the weight room, on the field, on the court, everywhere that needs work you will find him there,” Bell said. “He doesn’t miss workouts, even on days that he has summer league games or any other commitments.” Flores’ desire to excel is exemplified in the weight room where he packs 191 pounds onto his 5-8 frame and has maxes of 285 on bench, 450 on squat, and 270 on clean. It is also evident on the football field where Flores ran for 684 yards and nine touchdowns last year at running back. Flores also caught a TD pass and ran a kickoff back for score. On defense, Flores recorded 100 tackles and recovered two fumbles from his linebacker position, good for honorable mention All-State recognition. Bell says he’s the type of player who leads by example. “Nobody will ever question anything that he does or says because he has built that type of trust with his teammates, classmates, community, teachers and coaches,” Bell said. Flores, who is currently being recruited by a number of NAIA schools including Bethany, Sterling, and Concordia (Neb.) among others, says his goal for his senior season is to be the best teammate he can be. “I love that football is a sport where everyone on the team has to contribute to everything and how easily it relates to life,” Flores said. Gallagher Martin

Chairez/from page 21_______________________________

me an even better athlete and person,” Chairez said of wrestling. Chairez is well-known for his big grin and jovial nature. The oldest of five children, Chairez has several nicknames including “Mt. Fuji” and “Big Fuj.” In the past, Garden City has brought pancakes to football games to celebrate pancake blocks from Chairez and the line. In late June, Chairez worked his construction job, then drove 200 miles to Salina for the cover shoot in 90-plus degree heat. Chairez still wore his paint-stained shirt – and a big smile – after the long drive. “I was always a goofy kid I guess in school, and so everybody just loved my attitude and my personality,” Chairez said. “So I just keep doing what I’d be doing. My parents always tell me, ‘Be a good kid, never do a bad thing and always do what you want to do, and don’t be afraid to be different.’ So I just do those things and I just hear compliments all the time.” Chairez has started at right tackle the last two falls. In 2017, GC finished 8-3. Last year, the Buffs graduated more than 98 percent of its offensive production and slipped to 2-7. Each of the last two falls, Chairez was a first team all-state non-senior by Sports in Kansas. As of the Sharp Performance combine in April, Chairez had no significant offers. Listed at 6-foot-1, 309 pounds, Chairez had been cited for his lack of height. At the combine, Chairez said the low interest “builds a fire in me.” Chairez stayed upbeat and performed well. He posted 22 reps at 225 pounds on bench, ran the 40-yard dash in 5.03 seconds, had 5.15 seconds in the pro agility and a 24-inch vertical. “They measure your height, but they can’t measure your heart,” he said at the combine. “And I have got a big heart, so I am going to keep fighting till I get one offer.” On April 23, the recruiting significantly opened up as Fort Hays, the defending two-time MIAA champions, offered Chairez. Southwestern Oklahoma State followed on the same day. Garden City CC offered on April 29. On May 22, the MIAA’s Missouri Western followed. Northwest Missouri and Missouri Southern offered on June 28. On July 13, Chairez committed to the Lions, another rare decision for a Kansas kid. Three days later, Garden City standout softball player Yazmin Vargas committed to the Lions. Vargas was honorable mention all-state in 2019 and second team all-state in 2018 by Sports in Kansas. Chairez will play for new Southern coach Jeff Sims, who enjoyed great success at Garden City Community College. In ’17-18, he led the Broncbusters to the junior college national title, and a runner-up finish last year. Sims earned national runner-up as Fort Scott’s coach in 2009. The Lions’ current roster features one player from Kansas, senior kicker Paul Wolff, a transfer from Independence CC originally from Olathe. Holcomb’s Dillon Williams, who played for Sims at GCCC, will also join the Lions. The softball team has two Kansans, from Olathe and Spring Hill. This fall, Chairez looks to help Garden City back up in the 6A ranks. The Buffs are significantly more experienced than 2018. QB Carlos Acosta returns, while 53 percent of the rushing yards and 42 percent of the receptions came from underclassmen. Paced by Chairez, GC returns four offensive line starters. “We have a chip on our shoulder….I don’t think anybody likes being 2-7,” Chairez said. “Nobody likes that, so we have something to fight for every single week, being 1-0 every single week.”

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

DOUG GRIDER HALSTEAD

Halstead linebacker Doug Grider is going to be a headache for opposing offenses for two more seasons. He broke out last year recording 97 tackles, two sacks, and two forced fumbles. With maxes of 315 on bench, 415 on squat, and 325 on clean, Photos by Grider is a beast both on the Bree McReynolds-Baetz field and in the weight room. “I love the weight room because I love the grind of it and I love getting better alongside my teammates for sports such as football,” Grider said. Grider is entering his junior season at Halstead. The Dragons were 5-4 last year with close losses to the best teams in 3A. This year, Grider is hoping to lead his team to the top. “My goals for this season are to win the 3A State Championship and to go undefeated,” Grider said. Halstead head coach Jason Grider, Doug’s father, believes his son’s aspirations match his dedication. “Doug’s work ethic is second to none,” Coach Grider said. “He wants to be the best, he wants to help his team win a state title and his work ethic matches that. I’ve had very few kids over the years who come close to Doug’s work ethic.” Grider says he wants to play football in college, and he hopes to start getting offers after his junior season. And Doug is not the only standout football player in the Grider household, brother Scott is returning for his senior season after 1,400 yards rushing and 101 tackles last season. GM

Page 59

CALEB HAGGARD LABETTE COUNTY

ZACH HARE

According to Labette County head coach Sean Price, senior defensive end Caleb Haggard is the type of player every school needs. “Anytime you have a young man like Caleb Haggard on your team you are going to be better because he makes those around him better,” Price said. At 6-1, 225, Haggard is as disruptive as they come. Last season, Haggard recorded 15.5 tackles for loss, including 5.5 sacks, while recording 54 total tackles. He also forced three fumbles and recovered two more. Haggard loves the competition that comes with football. “Football is a sport for real men,” Haggard said. “A sport to forget about all your problems and just go play.” Haggard has maxes of 285 on bench, 485 on squat, and 285 on clean. When it comes to the weight room, Haggard loves to embrace it all. “The weight room is a place to get better,” Haggard said. “A place for failure and that failure always makes you better.” Haggard says he currently has interest from KU and Pittsburg State, and says playing football at the next level is an important personal goal, and something he’s dreamed of for years. In his final season at Labette County, he plans on taking it week by week and having fun with his teammates. “My goals for this season are to get better every rep and go 1-0 every week with my brothers,” Haggard said. GM

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EUREKA

At 6-0, 195, Eureka senior wide receiver Zach Hare lifts at least 300 pounds on the three major lifts. Hare squats 435, benches 335, and can clean 300. According to Eureka head coach Jason Nichols, there are very few athletes like Hare. “Zach is our hardest worker in and out of the weight room,” Nichols said. “He is always here, always working hard and encouraging others, and pushes himself every day. He is one of the best receivers in the state, and I have only seen a handful of athletes push themselves as hard and as consistently as Zach.” Hare will be one of the premiere wide receivers both in the Tri-Valley League and in 2A this year. Hare earned all-state honors from Kpreps, The Wichita Eagle and The Topeka Capital-Journal after catching six touchdowns on 34 receptions and tallying 717 receiving yards last season. Hare is a dominant receiver, but he’s just grateful to play the sport he’s loved since he was a child. “Football has been my love since first grade,” Hare said. “I love everything about the sport. Football has taught me that life is a team game and I love working out, playing for my teammates, the crowd, and playing both sides of the ball. I love catching the ball and scoring. I love everything about the game.” Hare says he would “absolutely” love to play football at the college level and that he is currently being recruited. GM

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 60

CION HARRIS

JACK HAWVER

BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Cion Harris may be the most valuable player to the Basehor-Linwood football team. He is certainly the MVP of the offensive line. Harris plays center for the Bobcats where he has blossomed into a leadership role. According to head coach Rod Stallbaumer, Harris took it upon himself to lead the offensive linemen in workouts last spring. “This spring, Cion organized and led our offensive line in off-season workouts after school, four days a week from April through the end of the school year in preparation for the summer and this season,” Stallbaumer said. On the field, Harris is responsible for all of the line checks. He is essentially the quarterback of the offensive line. Harris helped led the Bobcats to 36 points and 357 yards per game last season. Basehor-Linwood went 10-2 last year and made the semifinals of 4A. A first-team All-United Kansas Conference selection and an honorable mention 4A selection by the Topeka Capital-Journal and Wichita Eagle, Harris loves the competition and atmosphere of football. “I love the competition of going against another man and also getting hype in pregame,” Harris said. Harris is an absolute monster in the weight room in all of his lifts, but his squat is where he shines. At 5-9, 245, he has a max squat of 540 pounds, a bench of 310, and a clean of 300. GM

HUTCHINSON

Hutchinson High School senior linebacker Jack Hawver loves getting after opposing quarterbacks as much as he loves the weight room. At 5-11, 198, Hawver was one of the defensive leaders for the Salthawks last year and will be so again. Last season, Hawver recorded 69 tackles — five of them for loss — and three sacks. Hawver says he loves to have fun on the football field. “My favorite thing about football is going out there and competing with my teammates and making memories,” Hawver said. Hawver can be described as explosive. To go along with a bench of 265, a squat of 405, and a hang clean of 325, Hawver can run the 40 in 4.7. Hawver’s most explosive lift is the hang clean where he owns the school record in his weight class. The previous owner of the school record was former All-Big 12 linebacker Ben Heeney, who went in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL draft to the Oakland Raiders after a successful college career at Kansas. “Hang clean has been a critical lift for Hutchinson High School throughout the years as it is a true test of your overall athleticism,” Hutchinson head coach Mike Vernon said. “It has been fun seeing Jack work his way up to an elite level in the weight room.” Hawver says he wants to play football in college but is not currently being recruited. Gallagher Martin

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FCS prospect Sloan Hayden transferred from Ulysses to Eudora last January and has already made major strides. According to Eudora head coach Sean Hayden, Sloan’s older brother, the younger Hayden has added nearly 30 pounds to Photos by his 6-5 frame and has im- Bree McReynolds-Baetz proved on all his major lifts. “He is a beast in the weight room because since he came to Eudora in January he has gained 95 pounds on his bench press, 100 pounds on his squat, and 85 pounds on his clean,” Coach Hayden said. Hayden, who excels at tight end and defensive end, now has maxes of 275 on bench, 405 on squat, and 275 on clean. Coach Hayden says he can always count on his younger brother to bring energy and excitement to the weight room. “He has a great work ethic and is a great leader in the weight room,” coach Hayden said. “Other kids work harder because he is around.” Hayden currently has 11 offers to play college football, including South Dakota, Western Illinois, Fort Hays State and others. In mid-July he announced his verbal commitment to play at FCS Missouri State, and even though he plans to play at the next level, Hayden understands the reality of football. “I love how you don’t get to play the game forever so you have to take advantage of what you have given to you and how close it brings people together,” Hayden said. Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 62

CREIGHTON JOHNSON

SAWYER KRAMER

BELOIT

Beloit senior lineman Creighton Johnson is the model high school athlete, and a role model for younger kids. “He does everything the right way and gives everything he has,” Gober said. “Not only does he do things the right way in the weight room, he does everything that we ask on the football field as well.” At 6-0, 240, Johnson is the leader of the Beloit offensive and defensive lines. As a defensive lineman last year, Johnson recorded six TFLs, including 3.5 sacks, and 46 total tackles. His success on the football field can be traced back to his work in the weight room where Johnson has maxes of 505 on squat, 320 on bench, and 330 on clean. According to Gober, Johnson’s impressive weight-room numbers are the result of a drive to succeed. “Creighton is an animal in the weight room,” Gober said. “He never takes a day off. He leads by example and our younger players look up to him.” Johnson loves the weight room because he enjoys seeing hard work pay off. “Your results are due to your own work,” Johnson said. Johnson says his favorite part of football is the camaraderie. “It is something that our whole community is a part of,” Johnson said. Johnson, who also excels in wrestling and track, says he hasn’t thought about participating in college athletics. GM

ELL-SALINE

JOEL MONTGOMERY

Ell-Saline wide receiver/ defensive back Sawyer Kramer is often one of the smallest players on the field, and he’s also one of the strongest. It is easy to overlook Kramer at 5-7, 135 pounds, but turn on game film or watch him go to work in the weight room and you’ll see why he is one of the more underrated athletes in the state. Last year, Kramer battled an MCL injury that kept him out for half the season. His absence was noticeable for the Cardinals. Kramer partially tore his MCL in the third week of the season and then re-injured his MCL in the last game of the season. The Cardinal lost both games by a combined five points. Ell-Saline head coach Terry King says both outcomes could have been different with a healthy Kramer. “Sawyer is a go-to guy in tough situations,” King said, “he loves to compete.” In six games last year, Kramer rushed for 220 yards and three TDs while adding 270 yards and three more touchdowns receiving. On defense, he recorded 24 tackles and two INTs. In the weight room, Kramer has maxes of 200 on bench, 300 on squat, and 180 on clean. He also has a vertical of 30 inches and a 40-time of 4.7. Kramer says he uses the weight room to get bigger and better at football. “I love the team aspect and camaraderie of football,” Kramer said. Gallagher Martin

SMITH CENTER

Joel Montgomery is an offensive lineman with the speed, athleticism, and build of a running back. At 6-1, 175, Smith Center coaches say he is one of the most athletic linemen the program has ever seen. In the spring, Montgomery Photos by participates in the 4X100 Bree McReynolds-Baetz and 4X400 relays, 300 hurdles, triple jump, and long jump in track. Most kids with Montgomery’s skill set would be drawn to quarterback, running back, or receiver. Not Montgomery. Coaches say he never had the desire to play running back. “My favorite part of football is the concept of putting on pads and hitting people,” Montgomery said. In the weight room, Montgomery has maxes of 235 on bench, 355 on squat, and 280 on clean. Coaches describe him as a quiet young man, but a hard worker nonetheless. “My favorite thing about the weight room is the freedom to improve your body,” Montgomery said. “When the hard work pays off it’s exhilarating.” Smith Center is coming off its 10th state championship as a program which ties the record for most by any school in Kansas history. One more and the Redmen own the record all to themselves. Smith Center will be one of the favorites in 1A once again, and Montgomery wants to be a part of history. “My goal for this season is to win a state championship and break the state record,” Montgomery said. Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 63

ASHTON NGO ANDOVER

LUKE PARKS

Look for Andover’s Ashton Ngo to be one of the top linebackers not only in the Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II, but perhaps even all of 5A as well. Ngo is coming off a sensational sophomore season in which he recorded 88 Photos by tackles, 18 tackles for loss, Bree McReynolds-Baetz six sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. For his efforts, Ngo was named to the second-team All-AVCTL D-II team, as well as earning honorable mention all-state honors. At 5-11, 195, Ngo is just as much of a beast in the weight room as he is on the football field. Ngo has maxes of 265 on bench, 405 on squat, and 290 on clean. Whether it’s in the weight room or on the field, Ngo enjoys working with his teammates. “My favorite part of the weight room is the intensity and hard work that everyone provides,” Ngo said. “My favorite part about football is that you are playing for the man next to you and have to trust that they will do their job just as well as you.” Andover head coach Cade Armstrong says Ngo gives 110 percent on every snap and leads by example. “He makes others around him better and that style of play makes the other 10 guys play above their potential,” Armstrong said. “Ashton is the prototype of what you want from your players in the weight room.” And Ngo is an all-around athlete who wrestles and earned allleague honorable mention in baseball. Gallagher Martin

ELL-SALINE

WYATT PEDIGO

Look for Ell-Saline senior Luke Parks to be one of the best defensive backs in 1A and the Heart of America League. Last year, Parks recorded 68 tackles and an interception to earn first-team All-HOA and honorable mention all-state honors. Parks is also a second-team HOA running back after rushing for 523 yards and eight touchdowns on only 65 carries. Parks should be in store for a big senior season after helpling lead the Cardinals to a 7-3 record last year. “Luke is a very good football player with great instincts,” Ell-Saline head coach Terry King said. “He runs to the ball well and can tackle.” Parks is only 5-10, 170 pounds but he is explosive on the field and in the weight room. Parks has power as evident by his 240 pound bench, 340 pound squat, and 240 pound clean, but he is also quick and boasts a 4.68 40 time and a vertical of over 35 inches. “I love the feeling you get after getting up early and pushing yourself through a workout,” Parks said. As for football, Parks enjoys the team aspect of the sport. “It’s not about just one person and I like how dependent football is on your teammates,” Parks said. Parks, who says his goals are to record 80 tackles, force five fumbles, and make a deep run in the playoffs, says he has decided not to play football at the next level. Gallagher Martin

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Hoistington HOISINGTON

Whether it’s on the football field, the wrestling mat, or in the weight room, there is very little Hoistington senior Wyatt Pedigo can’t do. Pedigo is one of the best two-way players in the state. He was the 2A Offensive Player of the Year and the Non-Senior Defensive Player of the Year by Sports in Kansas. He is also a two-time state champion wrestler. At running back, Pedigo rushed for 2,101 yards and 29 TDs while adding three more TD receptions last season. On defense, Pedigo lined up at middle linebacker, outside linebacker, and defensive end and recorded 104 tackles. Numbers like those seem hard to top, but don’t tell that to Pedigo. “My goals for this upcoming season are to rush for over 2,500 yards, have 110 tackles, and win a state championship as a team,” Pedigo said. Pedigo’s versatility is perhaps his biggest strength. “On the field, Wyatt is very talented physically, but he is also one of the smarter football players that we’ve had,” Hoisington head coach Zach Baird said, “which is nice because it allows us to use him in multiple roles.” At 6-0, 215, Pedigo has maxes of 295 on bench, 340 on clean, and 425 on squat. He enjoys using the weight room as a time to bond with teammates. “I just love being able to go in and get a good pump going while grinding with my team,” Pedigo said. Gallagher Martin

SP Top Prospect/from page 11___________________ can block, because I am not afraid to hit, and I want to hit, and I can also run the ball and catch.” Cade Ross, the quarterback for the last two years, has transferred to Eau Gallie (Fla.) High School. Ross is the son of former Lindenwood (Mo.) head coach Patrick Ross. However, senior Quinn Neuenswander is expected to take over under center and provide a dual-threat presence. Jeff West has significant returning experience and could emerge as a contender in the loaded class 3A. Larned’s Perez wants to focus on football Larned senior Mason Perez is one of the more experienced athletes in all of Kansas. As a freshman, Perez started both of the Indians’ playoff games at safety. He has started every year since and plans to move to linebacker this fall. In basketball, Perez has started since he was a freshman at point guard. In baseball, Perez was hurt at a freshman but has since been a starter. Perez wants to play football at the next level and has had some contact with Kansas State, Southwestern Oklahoma and Bethel. “Looking for football,” he said. Two years ago, Larned went 6-5. “That was a great atmosphere, always positive most of the time. Keep up the attitude was a big part,” Perez said.

Both ’16 and ’17 ended in trips to the Round of 16, the best years for the program since 1985. Last year, the Indians had an injury-plagued season, including Perez, who played in only the first three games, as the team went 0-9. Perez looks to lead the Indians to a big turnaround after he helped Larned to its first state basketball appearance since 1994 in the winter. Larned coach Tad Remy felt Perez had a good day at the showcase with only a couple passes completed against him from his primary role as a defensive back. Perez consistenly runs in the high 4.5s/low 4.6s in the 40, according to Remy. A number of other prospects performed well at the event including Maize South defensive back Trevion Mitchell, Maize High wide receiver Preven Christon, St. Thomas Aquinas defensive tackle Peyton Reeves, South Central kicker/defensive back Gage Girk, Rock Hills running back Rylee Whelchel and more. Find a complete gallery of images from the event at KSportsImages.com. Conor Nicholl is a sports writer from western Kansas with more than 15 years experience covering high school, college and professional teams from Kansas and across the Midwest.

ARIC PROPST

HUNTER RENICK

HALSTEAD

According to Halstead head coach Jason Grider, senior Aric Propst makes hang cleaning 355 pounds look easy. “When it comes to athletic lifts such as clean and snatch, I’ve never had an athlete as explosive as Aric,” Photos by Grider said. Bree McReynolds-Baetz Propst also has a max of 285 on bench and 430 on squat to go along with a 40-time of 4.59. With his combination of strength and speed, Propst is a dominant linebacker for the Dragons. Last season, he recorded 79 tackles, 4.5 for loss, 1.5 sacks, and an interception. Propst is also an exceptional return man and owns the school record with a 97-yard kickoff return in 2017. “Aric’s work ethic in the weight room is outstanding and he’s an incredible athlete with great hips and feet,” Grider said. According to Grider, Propst is a model of consistency “It’s real simple with Aric; he does things the right way — he’s always on time, he’s always consistent in what he does, he always comes to the weight room and the practice field ready to work hard and he never makes the same mistake twice,” Grider said. Propst loves the atmosphere of the weight room. “I love the fact that nothing else matters in there except the guys around you and the weight in front of you,” Propst said. As for football, Propst loves getting better with his team. “It is a great stress reliever and you get to hang out with the boys,” Propst said. Gallagher Martin

CIMARRON

THYLER ROBINSON

At 6-2, 249, Cimarron junior Hunter Renick is the ideal size for a fullback or tight end. On the field, Renick rushed for 7.2 yards per carry en route to scoring six touchdowns on the ground. Through the air, Renick accounted for six receptions for 97 yards and another touchdown. Just as impressively, Renick had 12 pancake blocks. Former Cimarron head coach Greg Koenig believes Renick has all the intangibles to be the best of the best. “His size and athleticism, as well as his desire to be elite, clearly makes Hunter Renick a key player for the Cimarron Bluejays,” Koenig said. Renick has a max bench of 320, squat of 420, and clean of 285. His monster weight room numbers are a direct result of a monster work ethic. “Hunter is a beast in the weight room because he is driven to excel so he puts in extra time and effort,” Koenig said. “He pays great attention to detail and simply outworks others. His work ethic is outstanding because he understands the need to align his habits with his goals and dreams.” Renick doesn’t view the weight room as a chore. In fact, it’s his favorite place. “I love that I can push myself, I love everything in it and I wouldn’t want to spend my time anywhere else,” Renick said. Renick says he currently has interest from Iowa, SMU, UTEP and Murray State, and at least one offer from Butler CC. GM

NICHOLAS SCHWARZ BLUE VALLEY NORTHWEST

Blue Valley NW coach Clint Rider calls senior Nicholas Schwarz the complete package. At 5-10, 187, Schwarz is not big, but he can lift with the strongest of football players in the weight room. “Nick is a relentless worker who brings his best each time he walks through the weight room doors,” Rider said. “He lives with impeccable character and is constantly challenging himself.” Schwarz plays linebacker for the Huskies where he tallied 31 tackles, a sack, and two pass deflections last year. Rider expects those numbers to increase in 2019. “We are excited to watch Nick display all of the progress he has made over the course of the offseason in his ability to disrupt opposing offenses,” Rider said. Schwarz has maxes of 255 on bench, 405 on squat, and 310 on clean to go along with a 40-inch vertical and a 10-3 broad jump. Schwarz loves the weight room because there are no excuses. “It is a place where only you can determine the outcome of the day,” Schwarz said. Schwarz says he started playing football when he was only four, and calls it a team sport he loves. “Some of my most vivid memories are from playing on the field.”

Hoistington HUTCHINSON

Hutchinson High School’s Thyler Robinson loves changing the narrative. Changing how people see him is what the 6-0, 240 offensive lineman loves about the weight room. “My favorite thing about the weight room is changing people’s perspective on how they see you,” Robinson said. “Getting there and pushing yourself to be the best is what I like.” Robinson is a force on the offensive line. With maxes of 425 on squat, 365 on clean, and 260 on bench, when Robinson delivers a hit, opponents tend to feel it the next morning. He says his goals for this season are to get bigger, faster, and stronger. “My favorite thing about football is being out there with my friends, having fun, and making plays,” Robinson said. Robinson turned heads last spring as a junior when he broke Geneo Grissom’s hang clean record. Grissom is a former Hutch High star who was drafted in the third round of the 2015 NFL draft by the New England Patriots out of the University of Oklahoma. “Thyler has worked hard over the last year to improve his athleticism and strength,” Hutchinson head coach Mike Vernon said. “I would look for Thyler to have a big year on the offensive line.” Robinson says he wants to play football in college but he is not currently being recruited. Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 65

DANTE SMITH

REECE STRUCKHOFF

NORTON

There aren’t many more intimidating players to go up against in the trenches than Norton’s Dante Smith. At 6-2, 285, Smith’s broad shouldered frame is generated by a beast-like effort in the weight room. Smith has a monster Photos by bench of 375 and can squat Bree McReynolds-Baetz 515 to go along with a hang clean that reaches 250. Quite simply, Smith is an incredibly strong football player. “Dante can move a lot of weight and he works hard at lifting,” Norton head coach Lucas Melvin said. “He works hard in the weight room.” Smith is a beast on both sides of the ball. On offense, he was named to the All-Mid-Continent League second team. Defensively, Smith recorded 42 tackles, three tackles for loss, and a sack. Smith, a senior, will be a three-year starter by the end of his high school career. “Dante’s size and strength makes him a key player for our program,” Melvin said. “He’s very hard to move and is getting better and better at blocking.” Smith is also a key piece to the Norton basketball team and has played in every game over the past two seasons. In the spring, Smith throws the shot put and discus. Norton returns a number of key pieces to improve on last year’s anamolous 4-5 season. The Bluejays are HUGE up front with Smith, senior Judson Wiltfong and junior Christien Hawks.

KOLBY TALBOT

THUNDER RIDGE

Thunder Ridge has one of the best kept secrets in senior Reece Struckhoff. He had to sit out all of last year after transferring from Stockton, but the versatile athlete should make an immediate impact this season. Struckhoff is the cousin of current Thunder Ridge head coach Joel Struckhoff, who owns the record for most rushing yards (6,919), total touchdowns (127) and points scored (856) in 8-Man history. While the younger Struckhoff won’t be duplicating those numbers, he has established himself as a beast in the weight room. In fact, the older Struckhoff calls Reece’s time away from varsity football a great motivator. “Not being able to play last year has really made him take his summer conditioning and training to another level to have a breakout year as a senior,” coach Struckhoff said. Struckhoff’s weight-room numbers are even more impressive when you take into account his 5-11, 185 pound frame. He has maxes of 350 on bench, 425 on squat, and 315 on clean. “He shows great leadership in the weight room and has stayed the course since his freshman year to get where he is today,” coach Struckhoff added. Struckhoff would like to play collegiately and holds offers from NAIA and JUCO programs with interest from MIAA schools. “What I love about football is the family feeling of being around your teammates and coaches that builds a bond that you will have forever, and winning,” Struckhoff said. GM

Hoistington AXTELL

Kolby Talbot was only a sophomore last year, but he was a big reason for Axtell’s trip to the 8-Man II semis. Axtell went 10-2 last year with Talbot anchoring the offensive and defensive lines. Defensively, Talbot recorded 53 solo tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and recovered three fumbles. He was named an all-state defensive linemen by Kpreps. At 6-0, 225, Talbot has maxes of 255 on bench, 405 on squat, and 285 on clean and has also repped 445 six times on trap-bar deadlift. Coach Eric Detweiler says Talbot has natural strength that he couples with a strong attitude and work ethic. “Kolby brings that nastiness that you just can’t teach,” Detweiler said. “He leads by example with his relentless motor that doesn’t stop. He plugs the middle up from the nose guard position, and he can either make a hole or pass protect with the best from the center position.” Talbot is perhaps Axtell’s best overall football player, which is a bold statement for a team that features Quinn Buessing. Not only does Talbot not shy away from that, he embraces it “My goal for the season is to be a part of every play,” Talbot said. “Whether it’s not missing a single block on offense or being a part of every tackle on defense. By working hard at practice and in games I will accomplish this goal.” Talbot says he loves the culture of Axtell football. “Football makes a real man out of someone, especially Axtell football,” Talbot said. “Builds a lot of character.” GM

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

TAYLOR WAMEGO

RYLEE WHELCHEL

JACKSON HEIGHTS

Taylor Wamego is only a junior and yet he is already squatting 500 pounds. That number will only increase as he finishes his final two years of high school, as will his max of 265 on bench and 295 on clean. At 5-10, 295, Wamego was Photos by a big reason for Jackson Bree McReynolds-Baetz Heights’ 9-2 record and trip to the 1A quarterfinals, and he is part of a big, experienced front line gunning for more success this fall. On offense, Wamego earned honorable mention all-state state honors. On defense, he racked up 42 tackles, four sacks, and six tackles for loss. Wamego is coming off a first-team All-Northeast Kansas League season. Wamego is only going to get better, and Jackson Heights head coach Caleb Wick is excited about his potential. “Taylor is very important to the future of Jackson Heights football because he is teaching the younger athletes how to become not only hard workers, but great leaders,” Wick said. Wamego is beginning to blossom into a leader, Wick says. “Taylor comes to the weight room everyday with great energy and gets everyone else going,” Wick said. “Going into his junior year I can really see some leadership skills coming along.” Wamego says he doesn’t have any offers to play football in college, but playing at the next level is one of his goals. “My goals are to win a state title and pick up some offers after the season,” Wamego said. Gallagher Martin

ROCK HILLS

At 5-10, 180, Rock Hills senior Rylee Whelchel has the power and speed to play all over the field. Whelchel had a combined 700 yards and 16 touchdowns as a rusher and a receiver last season as the Grizzlies finished 8-2 and undefeated in their district. Whelchel is just as versatile on defense where he plays linebacker and defensive back. With maxes of 330 on bench, 520 on squat, and 285 on clean, Whelchel is as strong as anyone on the field. With 40 times consistently in the 4.5s, he is as fast as almost anyone on the field too. Whelchel has lofty goals for the Grizzlies this season, but says the team can’t look too far ahead. “My goals for this season are to win state as a team,” Whelchel said, “but we have to focus on the regular season first.” Whelchel’s favorite part about the weight room is setting goals and achieving them. Whelchel has battled injuries the last couple of seasons, but when he is healthy he can light up an 8-Man football field. Whelchel hopes to play football at the next level and currently has an offer from Bethel College. Whelchel won a powerlifting state championship at 156 pounds his freshman year and was second at 181 as a junior where he also broke the squat record with a lift of 510 pounds. Gallagher Martin

EYANN ZIMMERMAN

REPUBLIC COUNTY Whether on offense or defense, lining up against Republic County senior Eyann Zimmerman is no fun. At 6-1.5, 275, Zimmerman is an imposing figure and an anchor in the trenches for the Buffaloes. Last season, Zimmerman was named honorable mention all-state as both an offensive and defensive lineman by the Topeka Capital-Journal. Zimmerman tallied 45 tackles, nine for loss, while forcing four fumbles and recovering two. On offense, Zimmerman recorded 18 pancake blocks. According to Republic County coach Faron Kraft, Zimmerman has capable speed to go with imposing strength. “What makes Eyann a beast in the weightroom is his overall ability,” Kraft said. “He is not just a strong kid, he is very agile for a big guy. Not many guys his size are that well rounded.” On the field, Kraft is always trying to get Zimmerman involved and calls him a team leader. “We ask him to do a lot of things up front because of his ability,” Zimmerman said. “On offense, we try to find a way to run his way. On defense, teams run away from him.” Zimmerman has monster maxes of 345 on bench, 450 on squat, and 290 on clean. “Eyann works hard in the weight room,” Kraft said. “He’s always setting goals and accomplishing them.”

Page 66

LA’JAMES WHITE

Hoistington KANSAS CITY PIPER

La’James White is poundfor-pound one of the best lifters in Kansas, especially in bench and clean, where he medaled at the state powerlifting meet. He’s also a 1,000-yard rusher for the KC-Piper football team. At 5-9, and just 165 pounds, White has maxes of 295 on bench, 425 on squat, and 270 on clean. On the football field, White rushed for 1,015 yards and caught passes for 213 yards last year as a sophomore. Piper head coach Rick Pollard will lean on White offensively for the two years to come. “La’James White is constantly competing to be the best lifter and worker in the weight room,” Pollard said. “La’James is a great running back and is one our top returning offensive players. He is always pushing all or our players to be their best and compete at a high level.” White says he loves to get in the weight room to focus on improving himself in all areas of his game. “I love how you get to go in the weight room and relieve your stress,” White said. “You get to work to be the best athlete you can possibly be. The weight room is where you better yourself both mentally and physically.” White says he has recruiting interest from K-State, KU, Washburn, and Pittsburg State. “I love football because it has helped me deal with a lot of bigger life issues,” White said. Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 67

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 68

Garden City Community College puts emphasis on recruiting Kansas

By Brett Marshall, For Kansas Pregame GARDEN CITY -- When he was named the new Garden City Community College head football coach in early December of 2018, Tom Minnick knew how he wanted to implement his recruiting efforts with the Broncbusters. Located in the western reaches of Kansas, Garden City has long been acknowledged as one of the premier football programs in the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference. Most notably, recently, the Busters, under then head coach Jeff Sims, won the 2016 NJCAA National Championship over Minnick’s old school, Arizona Western, and then was runner-up in 2018 to East Mississippi. Minnick, an 11-year veteran coach from powerhouse Western brings a wealth of experience, along with numerous transfers New Garden City Community College coach Tom Minnick addresses the media at his introductory press conference from his previous school to put the Busters in earlier this year. (Photo by Adam Shrimplin, ShrimplinPhotography.com) position to H compete TEC N I Conce A LagainE for D national U C AT40ISunflower O N State players a scholarship for such as Butler and Hutchinson to recruit kids In two years, beginning with the 2021 reand KJCCC titles. the 2019 and 2020 seasons has made an from the central and eastern portions of the cruiting class, there will be restrictions once But it has been his Kansas high school re- impression on prep coaches across Kansas. state,” Minnick said. “With that said, we feel again on the in-state, out-of-state roster cruiting efforts that has brought much atten- “We knew during our spring practice sea- like we have something special to offer here numbers. Of the 85 roster players, the new tion to the new Busters’ head coach. son that we needed and wanted to recruit and want to be sure the coaches and players rule will restrict out-of-state players to 55 with 30 coming from Kansas. “When we first got here, it was a little Kansas kids,” Minnick said. “Especially, we understand that.” helter-skelter with the recruiting because want to recruit the western Kansas kid be- Philosophically, Minnick said with an unlim- “Kansas does not have a big population we were playing catch-up,” Minnick said in cause we’re the closest school for many of ited number of out-of-state players available, base to draw from, so the number of kids mid-July as he was preparing for his first them.” finding a select few Kansas kids who can we can recruit who we think can play here season in Kansas. “Early, we didn’t have Minnick admits that some of the Kansas compete with potential NCAA Division I re- is limited,” Minnick said. “We want to be sure to get the right kids, who can come in, we a big list of Kansas kids to look at, but we prep recruits also are being recruited by cruits is tough. made a concerted decision to go out and Kansas State and Kansas, but sees it as an “We’re looking for that kid who is long, can help them get better and eventually see meet as many kids and coaches across the important part of the future of recruiting to lanky, plays multiple sports that we can them going to a D-I school. The in-state kids state as possible.” establish a line of communication with high redshirt, put some weight on them, get are a big asset for us and we’ve met some them bigger, stronger, and tougher and then great kids already.” While those early efforts have yet to pay school coaches across the state. big dividends, the fact that the Busters’ staff “We’re at a disadvantage being this far they’re ready to play for us one or two sea- In 2016, the National Championship visited more than 150 schools and offered west while it’s always been easier for places sons,” Minnick said. continued on page 144

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Peyton Huslig

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 69

Class 6A

1. Derby 2. Blue Valley North 3. Gardner-Edgerton 4. Olathe North 5. Blue Valley Others: Lawrence Free State, Manhattan, Shawnee Mission East, Topeka High By Brent Maycock, Topeka Capital-Journal There may be some debate as to which program is the state’s premier powerhouse, but there’s little about which 6A school is in that mix. With its third state title in four years, and fourth in six years, Derby has established itself as the king of Class 6A. The Panthers reclaimed the throne last year with a 24-16 win over Blue Valley North in the state title game to cap a 13-0 season. Only a 49-42 last-minute loss to North in 2017’s championship game kept Derby from joining select company with four straight 6A state titles — a feat only accomplished by Lawrence (198993), Olathe North (2000-2003) and Hutchinson (2004-07). History aside, there’s little argument that the Panthers are the standard in Class 6A. Now in his 14th year, Brandon Clark has compiled a 117-36 record and the Panthers have reached the state semifinals seven times in the last eight years, winning at least nine games all eight of those seasons. A year after defensive shortcomings ultimately came back to cost them a third straight title, that unit became the driving force for the 2018 team. Led by All-State selection Isaac Keener and a standout linebacking corps led by Jay Fisher and Jackson Syring, the Panthers allowed just 103 points all year (7.9 points per game), giving up more than one TD in just three games. “For the most part, it was just our kids’ will, their will to get better in the offseason,” Clark said after the championship game win over North. “Our defense was solid. They were kind of undersized, but they were very fast and very physical.” The bulk of that defense has graduated, however, but the Panthers should be well-equipped to make a run at its fourth championship in five years behind an offense capable of han-

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KANSAS PREGAME CLASS 6A PRESEASON RANKINGS

12 PLAYERS TO WATCH Photo by Jared Weinman

Malik Berrry [Lawrence Free State] 6-3, 218, OLB/SS, Sr.; 13th Ranked in KS by 247Sports David Brown [Blue Valley West] 6-2, 180, WR, Sr.; 66 rec., 1,054 yards, 13 TDs in 2018 Tony Friends [Shawnee Mission East] 5-7, 170, RB, Sr.; 1,440 yards, 15 TDs in 2018 Will Huggins [Shawnee Mission South] 6-6, 234, WR/TE, Sr.; KU Commit Lee Marshall [Shawnee Mission East] 6-2, 220, DL, Jr.; HM All-Sunflower League dling shootouts if the new-look defense doesn’t gel quickly. Derby will have to replace All-State QB Hunter Igo, but senior back Tre Washington had a breakout junior season, rushing for 1,836 yards and 24 touchdowns. Derby is well-stocked up front despite the graduation of All-6A selection Bryce Atkinson. Senior Alex Conn has multiple FBS offers and fellow senior Kevin Washington was all-league. Blue Valley North has emerged as Derby’s top challenger in 6A, but a major reason was the presence of QB Graham Mertz, who in two years established himself as one of the state’s alltime greats. Twice All-State, he threw for a state-record 51 TDs as a senior and finished top four in career TD passes and yards. He’s now at Wisconsin, so the task falls to the returning Mustangs to prove that one man does not make a program. Andy Sims has numerous other holes to fill, namely All-6A receiver Cameron Burt, all-purpose back Amauri Pesek-Hickson (1,744 total yards) and All-6A lineman Jack Stallard. North, which started 0-3 a year ago before ripping off nine straight wins to reach the title game, returns just four starters on offense, but seven on defense led by end Reid Spachman. Manhattan gave Derby its toughest test in the postseason until the championship game, falling 24-6 in the semifinals. The Indians were also stout defensively a year ago, giving up 158 points in 12 games and will lean heavily on that unit with eight starters back as the offense will have to replace All-6A back Kevontae McDonald among seven lost starters. Free State is a perennial contender and reached the quarterfinals last year. But along with the graduation losses of standouts Jax Dineen and Keenan Garber, the Firebirds have a new look

Here are 12 players to watch in Class 6A this fall:

Nate Matlack [Olathe East] 6-4, 215, DE/LB, Sr.; K-State Commit Beau Palmer [Blue Valley] 6-3, 210, LB/DB, Sr.; All-EKL Second Team AJ Patillo [Olathe North] 5-10, 185, Sr.; 107 tackles in 2018 Mason Richman [Blue Valley] 6-6, 252, TE/OL/DL,Sr.; Iowa Commit Reid Spachman [Blue Valley North] 6-3, 225, DE, Sr.; 11 sacks, 16 TFLs in 2018 Tre Washington [Derby] 5-9, 185, RB, Sr., 1,836 yards, 24 TDs in 2018 Joe Williams [Wichita North] 5-8, 165, RB, Sr.; 1,469 yards, 9 TDs in 2018

at the top as Kevin Stewart takes over as just the second head coach in school history, replacing longtime coach Bob Lisher. Stewart may open up the offense even more this season and has the top lineman in the state in senior Turner Corcoran. The Sunflower League might be as deep as it’s been in a long time with Free State, Olathe North and Gardner-Edgerton the favorites. North nearly returned to the title game for the first time since 2010, falling 51-49 to Blue Valley North in the semifinals. Though Daymonn Sanchez (2,400-plus yards) is gone, the Eagles return playmaking QB Arland Bruce IV, who had nearly 2,600 combined rushing and passing yards last year, and four offensive line starters. Only three starters return on defense. Gardner, meanwhile, was arguably the surprise team in the state last year. Coming off an 0-9 season in 2017, the Trailblazers made the move from the EKL to the Sunflower and posted an undefeated regular season. The turnaround season fell short of a storybook ending as the Trailblazers lost 49-28 to BV North in the quarterfinals and finished 10-1. No team in 6A boasts the 1-2 offensive punch of Topeka High, which returns All-6A tailback and Minnesota commit Ky Thomas and KU QB commit Da’Vonshai Harden. The duo tallied nearly 3,300 total yards a year ago and have enough of a supporting cast to advance further than last year’s quarterfinal appearance. Shawnee Mission East was 8-3 last year and reached the state quarterfinals despite a late-summer head coaching change that brought Justin Hoover into the fold. If not for Gardner’s turnaround, more people would have talked about Shawnee Mission South’s revival that saw the Raiders go from 3-6 to 7-3 behind standout QB Jack Roberts.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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DERBY

Derby returned to the top of the Kansas high school football world last year going 13-0 and capping off the season with a 24-16 win over Blue Valley North in the 6A title game, avenging 2017’s championship game loss to the Mustangs. Derby has now been to the state championship game five of the last six years, winning four state titles in that span. Derby’s championship loss in ’17 was partially due to a defense that allowed over 27 points a game. In 2018, the Panthers got back to playing signature Derby defense, improving its average points allowed to just under eight a game. Veteran head coach Brandon Clark is facing an uphill battle to get his defense to play at that level again this year after graduating four linebackers and the majority of the secondary. But there is never a shortage of talent at Derby High School. “We will be young, but we are excited to see who will be the next man up,” Clark said. Defensively, the Panthers will be led by linemen Tyler Dorsey and Daniel Archer. Dorsey was a first team All-AVCTL I selection after recording 58 tackles, with 18 for loss, and four sacks. In the secondary, Derby returns Brecken Kooser and Tanner Knox, but the Panthers will be reloading everywhere else. On offense, the Panthers return a plethora of skill position players, but return only two along the offensive line in Nebraska commit Alex Conn and 320 pounder Kevin Washington. Derby will feed the rock to talented running back Tre Washington. In last year’s state championship game, Washington rushed for all three of Derby’s touchdowns, inducing a 69-yard score. Quarterback Grant Adler has three returning receivers to throw to in Cavion Walker, Davin Simms, and Aaron Larson, and tight end Jacob Karsak who was injured early in the title game. Adler will look to stay healthy as injuries have forced the 6-3, 195 pound senior to miss large portions of the past two seasons. “We will have a lot of new faces out there,” Clark said. “Our goal is to grow each week so by the time we hit week nine we will have the most emotionally and mentally mature team on the field.” 13-0 in 2018 / 6A / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division I Coach: Brandon Clark (14th year, 117-36) Assistants: Jarrod Foster, Todd Olmstead, Chris Devore, Chris Pinaire, Eric Hendrick, Derek Goble, Kevin Davis, Zach Haynes, Austin Wuthrich, Taylor Zeka Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 4 Defense Cavion Walker, WR, 6-3, 215, Sr.; Jacob Karsak, TE, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Davin Simms, WR, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Aaron Larson, WR, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Tre Washington, RB, 5-9, 185, Sr.; Grant Adler, QB, 6-3, 195, Sr.; Alex Conn, OL, 6-6, 285, Sr.; Kevin Washington, OL, 5-10, 320, Sr.; Tyler Dorsey, DL, 6-1, 285, Sr.; Daniel Archer, DL, 6-0, 240, Sr.; Brecken Kooser, DB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Tanner Knox, DB, 5-10, 165, Jr. Gallagher Martin

DODGE CITY

From 2013-’17, Dodge City has posted marks of 3-6, 4-5, 5-4, 5-4 and 3-6. Last year, the Red Demons went 6-4 and played past Week 9 for the first time since an 11-1 record in 2010, coach Dave Foster’s first year with the program. Dodge City started 2-3 and then won four straight games, including a remarkable 34-33 win against Hays High when DC trailed 20-0 at intermission. DC graduated standout lineman Evan Darville, a Southeast Missouri State signee, and leading rusher Ja’iel Johnson, but returning senior quarterback Beau Foster and fellow senior linebacker Jashon Taylor are three- and four-year starters, respectively. Coach Foster has set goals to keep the Hatchet in Dodge City in the annual Hatchet Game rivalry contest with Garden City, win the WAC and have home field advantage in the playoffs. Beau Foster completed 94 of 171 passes for 997 yards with a 10/10 TD/INT ratio and rushed for 601 yards with nine more touchdowns. John Johnson, DeJon Delgado and Matt Friess combined for 75 catches for 11 TDs. Johnson also played on defense – rare for a 6A player- and had 36 tackles with a team-high three interceptions. Foster, Johnson and lineman Aaron Nelson were first team all-league on offense, and Taylor was first team all-league on defense. Nelson paced a line that allowed only four sacks. Taylor led with 95 tackles and had seven TFLs, while Alden Knedler was third at 76 and Tommy Bermudez fourth at 71. DC was even in turnover margin and was outgained by just 73 yards all season. Josh Harshberger recorded 45 tackles with five TFLs. Coach Foster said speed will be the strength on defense. DC was 1-4 in the last five meetings in the Hatchet series and defeated Garden City, 27-7, last year. “This offense returns a lot of experience that should make for an early takeoff,” coach Foster said. “Several two-year starters return on this unit that will be senior heavy. Replacing three graduates on the offensive line will most likely dictate how good this group can be as there aren’t many question marks at the skill positions.” 6-4 in 2018 / 6A / Western Athletic Conference Coach: Dave Foster (10th year, 48-40; 23rd year, 120-103) Assistants: Kyle Culwell, Ty Thomas, Tate Lowe, Marcos Gutierres, Dustin Ferguson, Daniel Voth, John Johnson, Jeff Brull, Tucker O’Hair Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Beau Foster, QB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; DeJon Delgado, WR/ DB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; John Johnson, WR/DB, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Aaron Nelson, OL, 6-2, 285, Sr.; Brian Holz, OL, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Lakin Scheck, WR, 5-7, 175, Sr.; Matt Friess, WR, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Jashon Taylor, LB, 5-8, 185, Sr.; Alden Knedler, LB, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Tommy Bermudez, LB, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Josh Harshberger, LB, 6-3, 205, Sr.; Cedric Rosales, LB, 5-11, 185, Sr. CN

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GARDEN CITY

Gardner-Edgerton believed success was right around the corner when they hired Ryan Cornelsen, but perhaps even the Trailblazer faithful were surprised that success was so immediate. After going 0-9 in 2017, Cornelsen stepped in and led the Trailblazers to an undefeated regular season and a trip to the Class 6A Quarterfinals. Cornelsen has an overall coaching record of 126-41 at La Crosse, Hays, Hutchinson and now Gardner-Edgerton. In 16 years of coaching, the son of legendary former Liberal football and track coach Gary Cornelsen is a proven winner, and the expectations for 2019 are no different. The Trailblazers return seven starters on offense, nine on defense, and 41 returning lettermen. With quarterback Teven McKelvey leading the way, the Trailblazers should find themselves as a contender in 6A for the second straight year. McKelvely rushed for 1,254 yards and 23 touchdowns last year while throwing for 404 yards and six more scores. McKelvely is one of three Trailblazers who rushed for over 1,000 yards last year, but the only one returning. The Trailblazers return three starters along the offensive line, including Kansas State verbal commit Talor Warner who uses his 6-4, 250 pound frame to anchor the Blazer line from his tackle position. Defensively, the Trailblazers were solid last year. Only a Graham Mertz-led Blue Valley North squad scored more than 28 points on G-E all season long; it was also the only game the Trailblazers lost in 2018. Leading tackler Davonte Pritchard had a breakout sophomore season last year by recording 67 tackles, including nine for loss, from his linebacker position. Fellow junior Drew Cassida is the second leading returner in tackles with 39 last year as a d-back. Last season, the Trailblazers were able to lean on McKelvey and Warner as their potent rushing attack delivered 10 wins. Look for much of the same from Gardner-Edgerton in 2019. “Keys to success will be to control the line of scrimmage,” Cornelsen said. “Our goals will be to get better each day.”

Garden City has been a consistent winner under coach Brian Hill, but struggled in 2018 after more than 98 percent of its offensive production graduated. Hill’s squad dropped from 8-3 back to 2-7.It marked the Buffs’ first losing season since a 4-5 mark in ’14 and was the fewest wins in more than a decade for GCHS. Hill, who is third all-time in wins at Garden City, earned league coach of the year in ’11, ’13, ’16 and ’17. GC went 2-2 in the conference last fall, and lost 21-7 to Washburn Rural in the playoffs. Hill set goals to be “more productive on offense” and “will need to control the clock.” Hill said the Buffs, who graduated the top three tacklers and four of the top five, will be “extremely young” on defense, and “they will need to grow up in a hurry.” Senior lineman Refujio Chairez headlines the squad. A four-year starter who can squat an incredible 765 pounds, Chairez has earned offers from Fort Hays, Missouri Western, Southwest Oklahoma State and Garden City Community College, and recently committed to Missouri Southern State. Chairez was a first team all-state pick from Kpreps and first team all-league, while junior lineman Garrick Wells was honorable mention all-conference. Fellow juniors Trey Nuzum and Anthony Gutierrez give the Buffs loads of experience along the offensive line. Nuzum, who stands 6-4, and weighs 275 pounds, could emerge as one of the top players in the 2021 class. Senior Carlos Acosta returns at quarterback after he completed 77 of 146 passes for 1,174 yards with an 8/9 TD/INT ratio. Acosta was second on the squad with 414 rushing yards and four TDs. The top-two receivers graduated and no one returns with more than 12 catches. 10-1 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League Hill would like the Buffs to create more turnovers on defense and improve on special teams while also Coach: Ryan Cornelsen (2nd year, 10-1; 17th overall, 126-41) Assistants: Chris Walters, Mark Simoneau, avoiding injuries. Drew Brown, Joel Bergmann, Tanner Rainbolt, Ryan Dieckgrafe, Kyle Rush, Jason Radel, Ryan 2-7 in 2018 / 6A / Western Athletic Conference Plankenhorn, Hayes Farwell, Jonny Hodges Coach: Brian Hill (10th year, 55-34) Offense: Offset I Defense: 4-3 Assistants: Justin Reich, Jordan Irsik, Asa Gottsponer, Carey McFann, Erik Base, Nate Bailey, Returning lettermen: 41 Jacy Holloway, Cody Bernbeck, Mitch Moore, Devin Returning starters: 7 Offense, 9 Defense Teven McKelvey, QB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Tyler Goetzmann, Limberg Offense: Pistol Defense: 4-2-5 QB/WR/P, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Dayvin Johnson, DB, Returning lettermen: 14 DB, 6-0, 155, Sr.; Kolby Gretencord, LB, 6-2, 170, Returning starters: 7 Offense, 3 Defense Sr.; Austin Oldham, WR, 5-9, 135, Sr.; Anthony Refujio Chairez, OL, 6-1, 300, Sr.; Carlos Acosta, Rodriguez, DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Talor Warner, T, 6-4, QB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Garrick Wells, OL, 6-0, 300, Jr.; 250, Sr.; Atticus Ramsey, DL, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Noah Trey Nuzum, OL, 6-4, 275, Jr.; Anthony Gutierrez, OL, 6-0, 280, Jr.; Lane Durst, WR/KR, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Short, OL, 6-3, 215, Sr.; Gerald Picado, DL, 6-0, Christian Reyes, WR/DB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Terrell Elliott, 237, Sr.; Shawn Waters, C, 5-11, 300, Sr.; Ethan Reynolds, WR, 5-10, 135, Jr.; Drew Cassida, DB, DL, 6-1, 260, So.; Oscar Yanez, DL, 6-1, 275, So. Conor Nicholl 6-0, 154, Jr.; Davonte Pritchard, LB, 5-11, 185, Jr.; Chase Maxwell, LB, 6-0, 177, Jr. Gallagher Martin

HAYSVILLE-CAMPUS

Jamie Cruce captured a Class 4A, Division II state title and all-classification coach of the year honors with Pratt in 2016. Last year, he led Pratt to a state runner-up finish to Sabetha in 3A. In both years, the Greenbacks were unranked in the preseason. Cruce, who was the Bethany College head coach before taking over at Pratt, moved onto Haysville-Campus after Greg Slade retired and has since joined the staff at Blue Valley North. Slade, who previously won a state title at Rose Hill, did an excellent job in his six years with the Campus program, leading the Colts to the first two playoff wins in school history the last two seasons. Campus graduated four first team all-league players: tight end/linebacker Quinton Hicks, all-purpose/ defensive back Cameron Harvey, wide receiver Tyler Kahmann and offensive lineman Seth Falley. Second team all-league selections Mateo Martinez (defensive linemen) and Robbie Adamson (wide receiver) graduated as well. Campus had a significant number of players sign with collegiate programs last year. Hicks headed to South Dakota State, Kahmann to Emporia State, Falley signed with Butler Community College, while Harvey inked with Southwestern College. As well, quarterback Evan Kruse signed with Emporia State, and running back/defensive back Sam Wise went to Bethany. Campus’ four losses all came by at least 21 points and versus schools that finished a combined 40-6. Campus opened the season with a 47-9 road victory

versus Dodge, an eventual 6-4 team. Hicks (29 catches, 431 yards, 104 tackles, 20 TFLs), Harvey (87 tackles, 933 total yards, 10 scores) and Falley were all-state selections at tight end, defensive back and offensive line, respectively. Five offensive starters are back, and junior Nate Bowen is expected to step into play quarterback. Campus scored 29.5 points and allowed 23.1 points a game last season. “We are excited to see how the summer months have paid off for our team,” Cruce said. “Having many new coaches and new schemes on both sides of the ball, along with replacing 14 starters, many of them were exceptional players, will be some major tasks for this season. We will strive to reach our full potential and play aggressively.” 6-4 in 2018 / 6A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division I Coach: Jamie Cruce (1st year; 7th overall, 42-21) Assistants: Greg Enns, Ray Boese, Matt Peschel, John Dravis, Alex Nuss, Chris Jensen, Eric McCormack, Mike Richter, Chris Bailey, Colton Flax Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Brody Jones, OL, Sr.; Layton Brown, OL, Jr.; Brayden Tunnell, WR/S, Sr.; Jackson Bradley, DE, Jr.; Bryson Gilchrist, S, Sr.; Takoda Jay, LB, Sr.; Xavier Spone, DL, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

HUTCHINSON

Mike Vernon’s first year at Hutch was rough, but he’s hoping the foundation has been laid for future success. The Salthawks went 2-7 last year with wins over Garden City and Salina South, and a 45-43 loss to a good Topeka High team in the first round of the 6A playoffs. While Vernon admits his team could still be a year or two away from returning to where the program once was, he expects his team to improve in 2019. “Overall, our roster will be better than a year ago, but is still not a traditional Hutchinson roster,” Vernon said. The Hutchinson defense was porous last year, allowing nearly 46 points per game, but eight of 11 starters return along with more returning lettermen who saw action on that side of the ball. Vernon is high on returning linebackers Jack Hawver, Hunter Austin and Celdon Jones. “Hawver has had a great offseason and is poised for a big year,” Vernon said. “He beat Ben Heeney’s sophomore clean record for 198 lbs. with a hang clean of 325.” Vernon is also excited about the depth he has on the offensive and defensive lines, but an undersized secondary is another area of concern for Vernon heading into the season. “We will be undersized in the secondary and sometimes that comes up and bites you in the AVCTL,” Vernon said. The secondary took an additional hit in the offseason when standout Tayezhan Crough, also one of the state’s top hurdlers, transferred to Gardner-Edgerton for his senior season. On offense, Hutchinson will have a QB competition between seniors Dillon Avilla and Dallas Chambers. “Both young men are capable, but you can expect growing pains,” Vernon said. Running back Alec McCuan has also had a good offseason, according to Vernon. The Salthawks are still young and growing, but Vernon is optimistic about the future. “In the end, this team is going to have to fight for every inch out on the field,” Vernon said. “Personally, I think we’ll be pretty good going into November.”

JUNCTION CITY

Coming off a big 9-7 upset of arch rival Manhattan in Week Six, Junction City looked poised to make a strong run in Class 6A. Instead, the Blue Jays stumbled home. They lost their final three games of the season and wound up with a rare sub-.500 mark under Randall Zimmerman, finishing 4-5 after a 4-2 start. All three losses to end the season were games Junction City easily could have won with none of them decided by more than 10 points — 21-20 to Seaman, 23-20 to Emporia and 25-15 to Dodge City in the first round of the playoffs. Four of the five losses overall were by 10 points or less with the only blowout defeat a 56-28 loss to Topeka High. How well Zimmerman and his staff can rebuild the offensive and defensive lines will hold the key to Junction City’s success in 2019. Graduation claimed every starter on the offensive line and senior Terrance Crumpton is the lone returner to the defensive front. He was an honorable mention All-Centennial League selection a year ago, making 42 tackles to rank third among the four returning starters on defense. Senior linebackers Kazerick Smith and Albert Caba were both second-team all-leaguers with Smith leading the Jays with 103 tackles and Caba adding 53. In addition to losing all five starting linemen, Junction City will have to replace quarterback Rooster Adams, who was the latest dual-threat player to run the Blue Jays’ spread offense. Junior Andrew Khoury did see some time in relief of Adams a year ago and threw for 405 yards and three touchdowns, but will need to show more in the running game after managing just 106 yards. He does have a strong complement in the backfield in junior back Russell Wilkey, who had 787 yards and nine touchdowns last year. He’s also got the team’s leading receiver, Ethan Alcorn, back after Alcorn had 29 catches for 433 yards a year ago. With more than 30 lettermen back, Junction City has plenty of experience to turn things back around and get back to its winning ways in 2019. The schedule will still be a challenge with league foes Manhattan, Topeka High, Washburn Rural and 2-7 in 2018 / 6A / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail Division I Emporia all returning experienced squads. Coach: Mike Vernon (2nd year, 2-7; 7th overall, Zimmerman won his 150th career game at Junction 31-26) Assistants: Travis Thurston, Adam Krol, City last year and enters his 26th season. Sean Harper, Dustin Woodward, Grant Wray, Xavier Hoover, Scott Yantes, David Armbrust, Dalton Luce, 4-5 in 2018 / 6A / Centennial League Jeremy Garcia, Derek Racette, Mace Krol, Zach Coach: Randall Zimmerman (26th year, 151-93) Burkhart, Casey Sedbrook Offense: Flexbone Assistants: Jimmy Goheen, Carl Laughlin, Dane Defense: 3-4 Jenner, DeShawn Fogle, Mitch Whaley, Aaron Craig, Returning lettermen: 9 Jeffery Childs Returning starters: 5 Offense, 8 Defense Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Dallas Chambers, DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Brayden Returning lettermen: 32 Rogers, RB, 5-7, 148, Sr.; Peyton Cohoon, LB, 6-0, Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense 179, Sr.; Dylan Peterson, LB, 6-0, 163, Sr.; Hunter Ethan Alcorn, WR/CB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Jojo Nieves, SB/ Austin, LB, 5-8, 190, Sr.; Jack Hawver, LB, 5-11, 198, CB, 5-4, 140, Sr.; Russell Wilkey, RB, 5-10, 163, Jr.; Jr.; David Waymire, DL, 6-1, 218, Jr.; Damon Cantu, Chris Randolph, RB, 5-6, 165, Sr.; Terrance CrumpFB, 5-9, 157, Sr.; Kadin Pennington, OL, 6-0, 212, ton, DL, 6-2, 181, Sr.; Kazerick Smith, LB, 5-7, 180, Sr.; Jon Fan, OL, 5-11, 261, Jr.; Noah Mcintyre, DL, Sr.; Albert Caba, OLB, 5-6, 160, Sr.; Sadiki Smith, 5-11, 220, Sr.; Thyler Robinson, OL, 6-0, 239, Sr.; OLB, 5-11, 185, Jr. Brent Maycock Josiah Morgan, DL, 6-2, 218, Sr. Gallagher Martin

LAWRENCE-FREE STATE

With the retirement of coach Bob Lisher and the graduation of Kansas State signees Jax Dineen and Keenan Garber, on paper it appears Lawrence Free State is headed for a step backwards in 2019 after going 10-1 in 2018. The Firebirds are replacing the only coach they’ve ever known. Lisher took over in 1997 when Free State opened and together with Lawrence High gave the city two large public high schools for the first time. Lisher’s final season was a good one. Free State began the year 10-0 before falling to Manhattan in the 6A quarterfinals. Not only is it the end of an era coaching wise, the Firebirds are replacing six starters on both sides of the ball. Lawrence Free State tabbed Blue Valley North defensive coordinator Kevin Stewart, a McLouth native, for the head coaching vacancy. Stewart will have a lot on his plate in his first year as head coach. “Hall of Fame Coach Bob Lisher’s retirement will lead to some changes in the program, but in my first season as the head coach of the Firebirds I have lofty goals and expectations for the season outcome,” Stewart said. The Firebirds have one of the best players in the country in offensive lineman Turner Corcoran. Corcoran, a Nebraska commit, is one of four returning offensive linemen for the Firebirds. Malik Berry, who had a nice junior year, throwing 22 touchdowns with over 1,100 yards passing and seven interceptions at quarterback may spend more time on the defensive side of the ball this year where

he can showcase his 6-3, 218 pound frame. The skill positions took the biggest hit for LFS. Replacing Dineen’s 1,318 rushing yards and Garber’s 21 total touchdowns will almost certainly require multiple players. The defense loses several key pieces, but the defensive line does return three in defensive coordinator Mike Gillman’s 3-4 scheme. Berry is the only returner in the secondary, while Ben Miller and Joey Eddis will be relied on heavily to lead the linebackers. Stewart has some areas of concern in his first year, but the Firebirds still have talent remaining on the roster. “Offensive line play and depth at line positions are strengths,” Stewart said. “Transitioning into a new program and adjusting is an area of concern.”

KC-JC HARMON

For the sixth time in Steven Jackson’s eight years as head coach at JC Harmon, the Hawks finished with a winless record, but the record doesn’t tell the whole story as the team was much improved in several categories last fall. The Hawks improved their scoring defense from 405 total points allowed in 2017 to 332 points allowed last fall and doubled their scoring output from 42 total points scored to 84 points. The Hawks also reduced the number of times they were shut out from five to three. Harmon had opportunities to get in the win column, finding themselves on the wrong side of three one possession losses including the season opener against Turner (28-20), a week three loss to KC (Mo.) Northeast (14-12) and week seven against Sumner Academy (26-20). Harmon will enter the 2018 season on a 30-game losing streak. 0-9 in 2018 / 6A / Kansas City-Atchison League Coach: Steven Jackson (9th year, 5-63) Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A John Baetz

KC-WYANDOTTE

Wyandotte only played seven games last year and won just one of them. For the second straight year, the Bulldogs’ lone win came against wnless KC Harmon, a 39-12 victory in the regular-season finale that kept them from going winless themselves. Wyandotte was oh so close to a second victory in Week Three, falling 36-35 to KC Sumner. The prospects for more victories in 2019 certainly exists as the Bulldogs return some key players from last year’s team, starting with senior tailback Rashad Graves. In seven games last year, Graves ran for 690 yards and four touchdowns, including four games over 100 yards led by a 183-yard outing in the Harmon win. Two other backs who had at least 250 yards rushing also return, as do leading receiver Walzel Evans (208 yards) and starting quarterback Torry Moore (229 yards passing). Several offensive linemen also return, led by senior Kevin Munoz, who was a first-team All-KC-Atchison League pick last year. Moore also ranked second on the team in tackles with 41, but leading tackler and first-team all-leaguer Joe Garrett is gone. Wyandotte boasts a large senior class of 11, many of whom have been three and four-year contributors to the program. If seventh-year coach Michael Lockett can gain some early momentum, the Bulldogs could enjoy its best season in years. 1-6 in 2018 / 6A Kansas City-Atchison League Coach: Michael Lockett (7th year, 7-34) Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Brent Maycock

LAWRENCE

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The Chesty Lions could muster just one win under new head coach Steve Rampy, but the legendary former Blue Valley head coach and Pitt. State offensive coordinator returns a load of experience to take the next step in the rebuilding process at Lawrence this fall. Rampy built Blue Valley into a state powerhouse, coaching the Tigers to four state championships and eight title-game appearances in 25 years, compiling a 176-84 record before spending 2010-’17 as offensive coordinator at Pittsburg State where he helped lead the Gorillas to the 2011 Division II National Championship. Considered one of the architects of the Pistol offense, Rampy is respected nationwide for his understanding of offensive football. He’ll count on nine players with starting experience on offense to help improve on the Lions’ 14 points per game scoring average of 2018 and 10 players with starting experience on the defensive side of the ball will look to improve the scoring defense from the 30.5 points per game allowed a year ago. Junior quarterback Tre’ Jackson should take the reigns as the team’s full-time starter this season. According to the Lawrence Journal-World, Jackson took over for the graduated Garrett Romero three games into last season and threw for 838 yards and five touchdowns while rushing for 341 yards and three more scores in six games before an injury knocked him out of the Lions’ week nine playoff game with Derby. Fellow junior Jackson Dooley got the start in the 41-7 loss to the eventual state champs. The Lions appeared to play their best football near the end of the season, losing a week six game with Shawnee Mission South, who finished 7-3, by one score, 30-24, and holding rival Lawrence Free State to their second lowest scoring output of the season in a 28-13 loss in week eight, all while starting nine sophomores. Rampy will have to replace several key pieces lost to graduation on defense, most notably defensive lineman EJ Jewsome and linebacker Caleb Mondi, but if the once young Lions grow-up quickly 2019 could yield significant improvement. 1-8 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League Coach: Steve Rampy (2nd year, 1-8; 27th overall, 177-92) Assistants: Jeff Lyster, Adam Green, Jamie Resseguie, Jeff Colter, Ben Ehret, Ron Mann, Greg Farley, Eugene Miles, Camren Torneden Offense: Pistol Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 9 Offense, 10 Defense Chris McGee, WR, Sr.; Devin Neil, RB, Jr.; Porter Dannivik, C, Jr.; Tre’ Jackson, QB/WR, Jr.; Jackson Dooley, QB, Jr.; Austin Hollins, RB/SS, Sr.; Graham Hough, RB/SS, Jr.; Cole Mondi, LB, Jr.; Cole Morris, LB, Sr.; Corbin Pruitt, FS, Jr.; De’Shon Lewis, DB/ WR, Sr.; Nick Ray, DE, Sr.; Dylan Gillespie, NG, Jr.; Kallun Chitama, DB, Jr.; Dre’ Bridges, DB, Sr.; John Green, WR, Jr. Gallagher Martin

MANHATTAN

Manhattan turned in another Manhattan-like season in Joe Schartz’s ninth year. The program has averaged just more than nine wins per season under Schartz and last year posted a 10-2 mark. The postseason run, which included an impressive 41-19 dismantling of Free State, ended one win shy of the program’s first state championship game appearance since 2001. For the second straight year Derby ended the Indians’ season, taking a 24-6 victory in the state semifinals — the Panthers’ closest game in the playoffs until the championship game. Manhattan’s only other loss came to arch rival Junction City, a 9-7 defeat in Week Six that denied the Indians an undefeated regular season and Centennial League title. Manhattan still shared the league crown with Topeka High, earning its ninth title in the last 10 years. A stout defense led by All-Class 6A defensive 10-1 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League lineman David Hernandez gave up just more than Coach: Kevin Stewart (1st year) 13 points per game with the Indians holding half of Assistants: Mike Gillman, Taylor Stuart, Nolan its opponents to a touchdown or less. The offense, Henderson, Spencer Bonners, Chad Aberle, Tedarian led by 1,600-yard rusher and first-team All-6A back Johnson, Devin McAnderson, Tyler Wendland, Mike Kevontae McDonald, scored at least 21 points in Evans Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 all but two games and topped 35 in nine of the 10 Returning lettermen: 16 victories. Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Both of those standouts are gone and the Indians Turner Corcoran, OL, 6-6, 270, Sr.; Ryan Lutz, OL, will have almost an entirely different look offensively 6-2, 255, Sr.; Kyle Flachsbarth, OL, 6-1, 190, Sr.; with only three starters back on that side of the ball. Frankie Calderon, OL/DT, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Malik Berry, Junior Dayne Aschenbrenner stepped in and ran the QB/SS, 6-3, 218, Sr.; Lovette Epelle, DT, 6-1, 250, offense as a sophomore starter at quarterback last Sr.; Devon Buck, DL, 5-11, 220, Sr.; Ben Miller, LB, year, but is the lone skill returner. 6-0, 185, Sr. Gallagher Martin K-State commit Sam Shields is one of two returning

offensive linemen who will protect Aschenbrenner. The defense may carry the load early on with six starters back to the unit. Junior nose tackle Damian Ilalio is already drawing FBS interest and will team with fellow junior Darius O’Connell to give the Indians a strong presence up front. There’s experience at every level defensively, however, with seniors Tyce Hoover and Chandler Marks back at linebacker and BJ Young and Nathaniel Hanson returning in the secondary. Young could find himself in the backfield mix to replace McDonald, who scored 30 touchdowns last year. Schartz has holes to fill, but has routinely done that during his successful tenure. 10-2 in 2018 / 6A / Centennial League Coach: Joe Schartz (11th year, 83-21) Assistants: Adam O’Neill, Jim Webber, Steve Aschenbrenner, Pat McKiney, Ryan Small, Alex Reinecke, Danny Grater, Keaton Barragar, Chad Wolf, Jason Lierz, Philip Thraemer Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 6 Defense Dayne Aschenbrenner, QB, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Sam Shields, OT, 6-5, 285, Sr.; Cade Wilson, OT, 6-3, 200, Jr.; Tyce Hoover, OLB/TE, 6-4, 215, Sr.; Chandler Marks, OLB/TE, 6-5, 201, Sr.; Damian Ilalio, NT/FB, 6-2, 245, Jr.; Darius O’Connell, DT/OG, 6-1, 280, Jr.; BJ Young, S/RB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Nathaniel Hanson, FS, 6-1, 175, Sr. Brent Maycock

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

OLATHE EAST

OE posted three straight 3-6 seasons, and then 5-5 and 4-6 the last two years. Before 2014, the Hawks had posted winning seasons every year from 2000-’13, including three double-digit winning years, six trips to the state semifinals and a state runner-up showing in 2005. OE last captured the Sunflower League title in ’08 and ’10. This year, coach Jesse Owen’s goal is simply “to win.” He wants the team to be top-3 in scoring offense, defense, turnover margin and to stay healthy. OE finished 3-4 in Sunflower League and had four losses by a combined 17 points. Last fall, OE opened 1-4, including a 27-21 loss at Gardner-Edgerton in Week 4 and 40-39 in overtime the following week at Shawnee Mission North. After the loss, OE defeated Shawnee Mission West, 28-23, and then lost 28-21 to Pittsburg. OE defeated Olathe South, 40-26, and then won at Blue Valley, 31-21, in a Week 9 bracket play game. In the playoffs, OE lost to Shawnee Mission East, 23-20. The OE win against Blue Valley was an upset as the Hawks were ranked No. 10 in 6A East, and Blue Valley was No. 7. The Hawks built a 17-0 lead and held off Blue Valley. Hunter Thomas passed for 236 yards and three touchdowns, while Ray Lewis caught four passes for 152 yards and two TDs, and picked off Blue Valley three times. Both players graduated. OE averaged 25 points a game and allowed 33.2 a contest. The year prior, the Hawks delivered 30.1 points and 23.1 points allowed. The Hawks’ defense will be led by one of the state’s best players. Linebacker Nate Matlack is ranked as the No. 7 recruit in the Class of 2020 in Kansas by 247 Sports, an industry recruiting leader. Matlack has committed to Kansas State. Previously a defensive end, the athletic Matlack will take his hand off the ground and play linebacker this season. An explosive jumper, Matlack will also get an occasional rep at tight end. 4-6 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League Coach: Jesse Owen (5th year, 15-23; 6th overall, 20-27) Assistants: Travis Greer, Nick Ash, Chris Burnett, Benji Love, Jason Peete, Jake Carroll, Phil Simons, Jamie Harris, Brandon May, Lance Larson, John Thomas, Cam Allerheiligen Offense: Two-back Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Nate Matlack, ILB, 6-4, 215, Sr.; Jordin Epting, CB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Jaxon Avena, OLB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Devin Wilmore, S, 6-3, 180, Jr.; Hezekiah Newman, S, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Ma’rrell Fountain, RB, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Kameron Byers, WR, 6-1, 170, Jr.; Dalton Carder, OL, 6-2, 270, Sr.; Myles McClellan, OL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Brandon Luce, OL, 5-10, 200, Jr.; Tarin Thomas, OL, 6-0, 220, Jr. Conor Nicholl

OLATHE NORTH

Last season ended in heartbreak for Olathe North. Arland Bruce, IV, and the Eagles gave everything they had, but came up two points shy in a 51-49 loss to Graham Mertz and Blue Valley North in the 6A state semifinals. The two teams combined for 100 points in an offensive explosion that resembled a Big 12 football game. Bruce threw for five touchdowns in a near-perfect performance in that game. Only a junior, Bruce is expected to be one of the premier quarterbacks in Kansas and the leader of one of the most potent offenses in the state. “We want to pick up where we left off on offense,” head coach Chris McCartney said. “We have a core of good players with game experience.” Even with Bruce at the helm, Olathe North may take a slight step back offensively from a team that averaged over 43 points a contest. Graduated running back Daymonn Sanchez’s production will leave a huge hole in the Olathe North offense. Sanchez ran for 2,413 yards and 29 touchdowns in North’s spread offense. Bruce will do his part to step up in Sanchez’s absence. In addition to throwing for 1,209 yards and 16 touchdowns, Bruce ran for 1,379 yards and 19 more scores as just a sophomore last fall. Together, Bruce and Sanchez carried the ball 468 times; no other Eagle had more than 22 carries all of last year. Developing receivers will be an important key to Olathe North’s success as the Eagles graduate their top two leaders in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. Defensively, senior linebacker AJ Patillo is expected to have a monster season after recording 107 tackles last year. Fellow senior linebacker Mason Pride will also be asked to increase his production after making 62 stops. “Defensively, we want to be more consistent and feel confident we can shut people down,” McCartney said. “We feel if we improve weekly we can potentially be a good team.” 9-3 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League Coach: Chris McCartney (5th year, 29-15) Assistants: Bryan McCall, Josh Carroll, Pete Flood, Kyle Swartz, Greg Berg, Jeremy pride, Zach Johnson, Sean Richardson Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 28 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense Arland Bruce, IV, QB, 5-11, 185, Jr.; Brandon Pena, OL, 6-1, 250, Sr.; Mario Schneider, OL, 5-11, 250, Sr.; Mason Pride, LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; AJ Patillo, LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Michael Vernon, OL, 5-11, 245, Sr.; Andrew Dunning, OL, 5-11, 250, Sr.; Mario Sanchez, DB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Malcomb McKibben, DB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Zach Willoughby, K/P, 5-9, 170, Jr. GM

OP-BLUE VALLEY

After state championship appearances in 2015 and 2016, the Blue Valley Tigers ran into a rebuilding year last season. For the first time since 2009, Blue Valley had a losing record as the Tigers finished the season 4-5. Allen Terrell is entering his third season with the program after posting an 8-4 record in year one. With 35 returning lettermen, including five returning starters on offense and six on defense, the Tigers plan a return to the upper echelon of 6A. “Our goals for the season are the 6A state championship,” Terrell said. On offense, Blue Valley loses five receivers who caught at least 13 passes, but do return junior Dorian Stephens. At 6-3, Stephens caught 29 passes for 487 yards and three TDs last season as a sophomore. Stephens already has offers from both KU and K-State. Junior Jake Wolff is expected to take over for second-team All-EKL QB Walker Kinney this season. Wolff doesn’t have a lot of varsity experience, but has done well at the junior varsity level and is already generating buzz from college coaches. In the trenches, returning seniors Trevor Lister and Evan Taylor were named honorable mention All-EKL offensive linemen. Defensively, the Tigers are led by Iowa-commit Mason Richman. At 6-6, 252, Richamn recorded 45

OLATHE NORTHWEST

After a 6-3 season in 2015, Olathe Northwest is 3-6, 4-6 and 1-8 the last three years. The Ravens, which started the program in 2004, tied the 2008 season for the fewest victories in school annals. ONW’s six-win season is the most victories in team history. Last year, the Ravens opened 0-5 with all losses by at least 15 points. ONW won 29-21 at Shawnee Mission Northwest in Week 6, and then lost its final three contests by at least 17 points. The Ravens played the No. 4 strength of schedule in the classification and scored 139 points and permitted 336, according to Prep Power Index. Two years ago, the 4-6 season came against the No. 9 SOS in the 32-team classification with 249 points scored and 251 allowed. Second-year coach Aaron Hafner is a Frontenac alum and previously was the head coach at NCAA Division III Luther College in Iowa. Hafner served as the head coach for Luther from 2012-’17 and posted a 6-4 mark in his last year, the program’s best mark since ’05. Previously, Hafner was the offensive coordinator at William Penn University from ’06-12 and set the NAIA record for rushing yards in a season. Assistant coach Lorne Clark is a longtime assistant with the Ravens and was a receiver on K-State’s first Big 12 championship team. “Compete at a high level on a week to week basis. Play discipline and tough football at all times,” Hafner said of team keys. “Improve throughout the season, so we are playing our best football late in the season. Establishing depth on both sides of the ball and in the kicking game. We must win the turnover margin and control the time of position. We must play unselfish football and only concentrate on team success.” 1-8 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League Coach: Aaron Hafner (2nd year, 1-8; 6th overall, 26-34) Assistants: Lorne Clark, Matt McLeod, Mike Stephens, Keith Winger, Justin Slaven, Roy Dennis, Richie Blazevic, Lucas Yarnell, Kyle Fuchs, Mark Mahoney, Avery Parker Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-5 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Ryan Andrew, WR, Sr.; Cade Conover, OL, Sr.; Eli Becker, RB, Sr.; Evan Jurad, OL, Sr.; Kaleb White, DB, Sr.; Gabe Barfety, DB, Sr.; Grant Hall, DB, Sr.; Colton Prock, LB, Sr.; Connor Hilliard, DL, Sr.; Seth Evans, DL, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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From 2010-’14, Olathe South went 7-4, 12-1, 5-4, 5-4 and 7-3. Since then, Olathe South is 1-8, 4-6, 4-6 and 5-5. Last year, the Falcons scored 28.5 points per game and allowed 27.5. Two years ago, OS delivered 20.2 points a contest and permitted 21.8. Olathe South won the state title in 2011 and has finished runner-up in 1999, 2004 and ’07. The school has three Sunflower League titles in ’99, ’01 and ’11. Last year, OS opened with a 26-10 victory versus Lawrence, and then beat Olathe NW, 35-7. OS followed with a 27-21 OT loss to Shawnee Mission NW and defeated Shawnee Mission South, 54-24. Losses against Olathe North (35-14) and Lawrence Free State (54-13) followed. OS defeated Olathe West (22-14) and lost to Olathe East (40-26). OS beat Blue Valley West, 54-41, and then ended the season with a 50-13 loss to Olathe North. Last year, the Eagles passed for 176 yards a contest and rushed for 171 yards a game. OS mainly played two QBs last year who combined for 1,749 yards passing with a 15/11 TD/INT ratio. Junior Reed Smith completed 82 of 184 passes for 1,241 yards with a 9/11 TD/INT ratio. The top-six rushers were underclassmen, including junior running back Andrew Nehrbass who had 182 carries for 1,206 yards and nine TDs good for second team all-league. Leading receiver A.J. Shields (47 catches, 934 yards, nine TDs), along with three of the top-four pass catchers, graduated. OS struggled with 23 turnovers and was minus-2 in turnover margin, but averaged 5.4 yards per carry. Senior linebacker Tony Lunson is back after he easily led the team with 137 tackles and was second with 10 TFLs. However, four of the top-six tacklers and six of the leading nine were seniors last year. Junior Adam Young was 28 of 34 on extra points and made seven field goals. “We want to go further in the playoffs than we have the last three seasons,” fourth-year coach Craig Lewis said. “This is a very young team that has to improve every play and stay healthy.” 5-5 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League Coach: Craig Lewis (4th year, 13-17) Assistants: Mike Spotts, Reed Howard, Josh Perkins, Nate Harrison, Greg Wheeler, Adam Christopher, Codi Willard, Damon Bell, Adam Myer, Kenyon Thornburg, Graham Rees, Brandon Schwarz, Tyler Lemke, Chad Hoffman Offense: Spread Defense: 4-1 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Blaize White, WR, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Myles Nash, DB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Isaac Alexander, FS, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Reed Smith, QB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Andrew Nehrbass, RB, 5-10, 200, Jr.; Tony Lunson, LB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Alex Younggren, DL, 6-2, 215, Jr.; Parker Wolgaust, OL, 6-1, 210, Sr. Conor Nicholl

OP-BLUE VALLEY NORTH

For the second straight year North got off to a slow start through the early part of the season, and for the second straight year they used an explosive offense to make a run to the 6A title game. After tough losses to Miege, Blue Valley and Pittsburg, the Mustangs went on a tear and did not lose again until the 6A State Championship. The big story line entering 2019 is the loss of AllAmerican QB Graham Mertz, now at Wisconsin after leading North to back-to-back state title games. Sophomore QB Henry Martin is generating buzz and excitement as the future face of the program. As a freshman, Martin threw for 619 yards and 11 TDs with just one interception in relief of Mertz. The Mustangs are replacing a lot of firepower on offense, returning just four starters. With seven returning starters on defense, the Mustangs will rely heavily on that side of the ball early to avoid a rebuilding process. 4-5 in 2018 / 6A / Eastern Kansas League “We will need to build continuity between our reCoach: Allen Terrell (3rd year, 12-9) turners and our newcomers,” head coach Andy Sims Assistants: Lew Rowe, Paul Brown, Adam Kinzer, said. “The EKL is a very tough conference and losses Brandon Olney, Don Hanna, Johnathan Jost, Mel Fox, Tad Kersting, Adam Bien, Demetrius Bernard, will happen, so we must stay focused on our long Larry Lindsay, Pat McRoberts, Matt Shipley, Trevor term goal of a state championship while focusing on improving weekly.” Burgess, Nate Schmidt Replacing Mertz and his 7,500 career passing Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 yards and 96 career TD passes will not be the only Returning lettermen: 35 priority on offense. Versatile athlete Amauri PesekReturning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Hickson, who piled up almost 1,800 all-purpose yards Dorian Stephens, WR, 6-3, 195, Jr.; Trevor Lister, OL, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Carson Taylor, OL, 5-10, 230, Sr.; and scored 22 total TDs in 2018, has graduated. Evan Taylor, OL, 6-2, 260, Sr.; Kaden Kirby, OL, 6-2, Pesek-Hickson, who had multiple FBS offers after 225, Sr.; Mason Richman, DL, 6-6, 255, Sr.; Sterling playing football for the first time since his freshman year, signed with KU after originally committing to Smithson, DL, 6-3, 305, Jr.; Beau Palmer, LB/DB, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Caden McCumber, DB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Michigan. Record breaking receiver Cameron Burt is also gone, but Aquinas transfer receiver Theo Grabill Cole Ross, LB, 5-10, 215, Sr.; Jack Bowersox, LB, 6-2, 210, Sr. Gallagher Martin should provide immediate help in the passing game, as should Topeka High transfer receiver Mekhi Miller. tackles last season, including a team-leading nine tackles for loss. Richman also led his team with four sacks. Richman also plays tight end for the Tigers but will switch to the offensive line in college. Senior linebacker Cole Ross returns after recording 70 tackles last year, while fellow senior Beau Palmer was named second-team All-EKL after recording 66 tackles and three interceptions as a defensive back. Caden McCumber was named honorable mention All-EKL as a defensive back after recording 57 tackles and one interception. The Tigers lost four of their five games last season by two possessions or less. Terrell is hoping his team has grown from last season’s experiences. “Our keys to success will be staying healthy and learning lessons from a difficult Eeastern Kansas League and out of conference schedule,” Terrell said.

OLATHE SOUTH

Senior Shawn Hendershot also returns at receiver after 46 catches for 494 yards and five TDs last year. Senior Kahlil Allen will look to step up at running back after starting at safety last season. Defensively, the Mustangs return their top-four tacklers. Linebacker Tim Foster will be all over the field after recording 91 tackles a season ago. Allen was second on the team with 87 tackles, while LB Nick Hafford was fourth on the team with 75 tackles. Defensive end Reid Spachman is back after recording 16 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and earning second team All-EKL last season. Sophomore DB Dasan McCullough (6-3, 192) earned preseason All-American honors from MaxPreps and already has numerous FBS offers. Blue Valley North still has the talent to make a third straight state championship appearance, but their success will likely come down to how quickly Martin and the offense can adjust to life after Mertz. 9-4 in 2018 / 6A / Eastern Kansas League Coach: Andy Sims (6th year, 60-26) Assistants: Greg Slade, Adam Pummill, Trent Hedlund, Cory Cox, Greg Miller, Rick Wasinger, Sonny Gnuthake, John Bayless, Kyle Pacheco, Montai Mickens, Chris Grissom Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 7 Defense Shawn Hendershot, WR, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Henry Martin, QB, 6-0, 180, So.; Griffin Williams, OL, 6-4, 250, Sr.; Garrett Aimutis, OL, 6-3, 275, Sr.; Kahlil Allen, RB/ DB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Reid Spachman, DE, 6-3, 225, Sr.; Brock Anderson, DL, 6-5, 270, Sr.; Luka Ivkovic, LB, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Tim Foster, LB, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Nick Hafford, LB, 6-0, 205, Sr.; Marco Collins, CB, 5-10, 175, Sr. Gallagher Martin

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

OP-BLUE VALLEY NORTHWEST

There’s nowhere to go but up for Blue Valley Northwest in 2019. After going 0-9 in 2018, the Huskies return seven starters on offense and eight on defense in Clint Rider’s third year as head coach. The schedule does not get any easier playing in the Eastern Kansas League, but the Huskies now have the experience to deal with the week-to-week grind of the toughest league in Kansas. “A big part of our key to success for this season will be the progress of our returning lettermen and the maturation of our young players,” Rider said. “Playing in the EKL, we will need to find ways to win tough games as there are no easy games on our schedule.” The Huskies will be physically imposing on the offensive line, returning three starters who are at least 6-3, 240, including junior Tommy Varhall, who is listed at 6-7, 280, and senior Danny Robinson, listed at 6-5, 285. Sophomore QB Mikey Pauley, who started the final three games of last season, is expected to start in the season opener. Pauley will look to get the ball to senior receivers Jake Dolesh, Evan Ranallo and Andrew Koplin. Senior running back Avion Tucker completes the returning starters on offense. “On the offensive side, the development of the offensive line will play a large part in our ability to put up points,” Rider said. Replacing Jack Hungerford at linebacker is the most prominent issue on defense, but the Huskies return three starting linebackers to aide the cause. Northwest also returns three defensive backs and two defensive linemen, while Leo Clennan has the versatility to either play linebacker or defensive end. “We will rely on our defensive line to get pressure on the quarterback to disrupt the timing of opposing passing games,” Rider said. Playing in the EKL, Rider knows every game will be a challenge. That is why he is preparing his team in practice for close games every week. “Our goals for the upcoming season are to win every close game we find ourselves in,” Rider said. “To do this, we will place a large priority on placing our players in competitive situations throughout practice.” 0-9 in 2018 / 6A / Eastern Kansas League Coach: Clint Rider (3rd year, 2-16) Assistants: Patrick Gittemeier, Zack Orrick, John Reichart, Tenny Dewey, Tim Serbousek, Darren Masten, Tobin Sample, David Fagg’ett, Jake Hinson, Curt Alderman, Ed Thomas, Michael Richards Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 8 Defense Mikey Pauley, QB, 6-4, 175, So.; Avion Tucker, RB, 5-7, 155, Sr.; Andrew Koplin, WR, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Evan Ranallo, WR, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Tommy Varhall, OL, 6-7, 280, Jr.; Danny Robinson, OL, 6-5, 285, Sr.; Cade Murphey, OL, 6-3, 240, So.; Jake Dolesh, WR, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Quincy Tillett, DL, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Sean Dunning, DL, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Nick Schwarz, LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Leo Clennan, LB/DE, 6-2, 195, Jr.; Ayo Ejelonu, LB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Eastin White, DB, 5-11, 150, Sr.; Ryan Callahan, DB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Isaiah Smith, DB, 6-1, 165, Jr. Gallagher Martin

OP-BLUE VALLEY WEST

The Blue Valley West football program hasn’t seen a winning record since 2014, but the Jaguars are garnering excitement ahead of the 2019 season. With the majority of the team returning on both sides of the ball, it isn’t difficult to see why. “Our team has much more confidence than in past seasons because of this experience and a 34-member senior class,” head coach Josh Koerkenmeier said. Blue Valley West averaged over 29 points a game last season and returns nine starters on offense. The Jaguars will need to replace a couple starters along the offensive line, but the Jaguars have a nice three-headed monster at quarterback, running back, and receiver. Running back Riley Cummings became a rare freshman starter three years ago, but back-to-back seasons filled with injuries have limited his production. Cummings ran for 700 yards as a freshman, and if he can stay healthy expect those numbers to improve. Senior Greg Riddle had a solid first year at quarterback last season, throwing for 1,700 yards and 18 touchdowns. Riddle’s favorite target is senior David Brown, who broke school records for receptions in a season (66) and receiving yards in a season (1,054) while hauling in 13 touchdowns. Koerkenmeier says he is on pace to break every receiving record at Blue Valley West. The defense returns 13 players who started at least six games in 2018. Linebacker Dylan Roach and defensive lineman Ike Summerlin are both three-year starters; Roach led the team in tackles last year while Summerlin led the team in sacks. The Jaguars also return six defensive backs who saw significant playing time. “This group of players has worked hard to put themselves in a position to compete in our league and ultimately in the 6A playoffs,” Koerkenmeier said.

Safe to say the 2018 season was an interesting one for Shawnee Mission East. Following a 9-2 season in 2017, Lancer head coach Dustin Delaney stepped down in a shocking move after going 52-8 in five years and capturing the 2014 state championship. Veteran coach Fred Bouchard, known for success at Harrisonville and KC Staley in Missouri, took over, but abruptly resigned late in the summer to take an administration job in Illinois and the program was turned over to former Miege quarterback guru Justin Hoover. Despite the late start, it was a good fit. The Lancers remained a contender, in the hunt for the Class 6A title, going 8-3 and reaching the state quarterfinals. The season ended with a 24-21 loss to Olathe North, whom the Lancers had beaten 35-28 earlier in the season. The only other losses were by a combined 11 points, 28-23 to Gardner-Edgerton in the season opener and 36-30 to Free State in Week 7. East and Hoover have had plenty of time to mesh this offseason, so expect the Lancers to show some staying power in his tenure. Hoover will have to work his QB magic with a new signal caller, though, after the graduation of multi-year starter Andy Maddox, who is off to the University of Michigan. Hoover says either Ryan Bolin or Price Terrill are expected to win the starting job in fall camp. Whoever wins the job will have a strong backfield complement with the return of leading rusher Tony Friends. Friends ran for 1,440 yards and 15 touchdowns and also was a solid receiving threat out of the backfield. He’ll also have East’s top offensive lineman back in senior Joe Krause. The defense took a big hit, losing All-6A defensive end PJ Spencer and leading tackler Tyler Stottle. The Lancers also graduated the Sunflower League’s 3-6 in 2018 / 6A / Eastern Kansas League top kicker in Parker Willis. All three are headed to Coach: Josh Koerkenmeier (4th year, 6-21) FBS programs with Spencer going to Northwestern, Assistants: Ryan Copp, Danny Catanzaro, Kollin Stottle to KU and Willis to Missouri. Ahern, Randy Lowe, Mike Besler, John Stone, Kevin East will look to get revenge on what should be Bandy, John Haley, Derek Howard, Joe Allison, Luke a very good Gardner-Edgerton team in the opener, Farnsworth, Tyler Dickerson but then has a manageable schedule before facing Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Olathe North and Free State in back-to-back weeks. Returning lettermen: 24 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 13 Defense 8-3 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League Greg Riddle, QB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Riley Cummings, RB, Coach: Justin Hoover (2nd year, 8-3) 6-1, 220 Sr.; Edgar Hunley, RB, 6-1, 220, Jr.; Corbin Assistants: Todd Buttermore, Gary Carl, Andrew Bates, OL, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Logan Ford, OL, 5-10, 220, Gagnon, Kanon Hoover, Danny Long, Adrian Sr.; Rocco Hicks, OL, 6-5, 220, Jr.; David Brown, Pearson, Derrick Rider, Drew Steffen, Shawn Hair, WR, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Will Rymer, WR, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Will Gorden, Chip Ufford Scott Riddle, WR, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Thomas Cook, LB, Offense: Spread Defense: N/A 6-1, 190, Sr.; Evan Gronek, LB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Justin Returning lettermen: N/A Darche, LB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Dylan Roach, LB, 6-0, Returning starters: 2 Offense, 5 Defense 180, Sr.; Jake Cummings, DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Logan Tony Friends, RB, 5-7, 170, Sr.; Joe Krause, OL, Rosner, DB, 6-4, 180, Sr.; Jack Hoskins, DB, 6-2, 6-3, 270, Sr.; Diego Harvey, DB, 5-8, 170, Sr.; Nate 170, Sr.; Andrew Bradley, DB, 6-1, 170, Jr.; Austin Jones, DL/LB, Sr.; Lee Marshall, DL, 6-2, 220, Jr.; Jones, DB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Gavin Darnaby, DB, 6-1, Sam Schlote, LB, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Coleman Wham, 175, Sr.; Andrew Pendergast, DL, 5-11, 210, Sr.; DB, 5-11, 160, Sr. Brent Maycock Luke Ralston, DL, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Ike Summerlin, DL, 6-3, 225 Sr. Gallagher Martin

SHAWNEE MISSION NORTHWEST

Shawnee Mission Northwest took another step forward in 2018 with a 5-5 record. In the first four years with veteran coach Bo Black, SMNW has posted marks of 1-8, 1-8 and 4-5. Last year marked the best season for the school since a 6-5 record in 2010, a year that ended a streak of four straight .500-plus seasons. This year, Black has set goals of a winning record, winning the Sunflower League and “developing a young defense.” The Cougars have a lone state title in 1981 with runner-up finishes in ’80 and ’82, along with three league crowns (’79, ’83 and 2007). Black, known for a longtime successful stint at Great Bend and his Spread offense, has improved the offense every year he has been at Northwest. Last year, SMNW averaged 26.3 points per contest and allowed 29. Two years ago, the Cougars delivered 23.4 points a game and permitted 27.8. Three years ago, Northwest scored 20.4 points a game but allowed 45.1. In Black’s first season, the Cougars produced 19.2 points per game and 39.4 allowed. Last year, the Cougars opened 3-0, including a 16-14 season opening win versus Shawnee Mission West and a 27-21 overtime win in Week 3 versus Olathe South. After a 37-7 loss to Shawnee Mission East, SMNW moved to 4-1 with a 20-2 road victory versus Lawrence. Then three straight losses ensued, including two defeats by a combined eight points.

SHAWNEE MISSION EAST

In week nine, SMNW defeated Shawnee Mission North, 35-28. NW trailed 21-0 before 28 straight points. After SMN tied the game, QB Ty Black threw a 23-yard TD pass on a one-handed TD catch from Dale Talley for a 35-28 lead with 1:08 remaining. The Cougars then lost at Gardner-Edgerton, 49-28, in the playoffs, the second loss to G-E in 2018. Ty Black is one of the state’s top QBs in the class of 2021. He passed for 2,695 yards with 24 scores against just 10 INTs. He earned honorable mention all-league and was a finalist for Sports In Kansas Non-Senior Offensive POY.

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SHAWNEE MISSION NORTH

Shawnee Mission North achieved a three-win improvement under first-year coach Zach Rampy in 2018 going 4-5. Outside of a 6-5 season in 2016, it marked the most victories for the program since a 6-4 record in 2003. SMN has not won a league title since 2000, its only crown since 1974, which is also its last state title. The Indians opened 0-3 with losses by at least 23 points to Shawnee Mission South, Olathe North and Lawrence Free State. However, North then pulled off back-to-back one-point victories versus Olathe West (35-34) and Olathe East (40-39 in overtime). North rallied with a late score to defeat Olathe West. On the same night that SM North defeated Olathe West, Rampy’s father, Steve, led Lawrence to its initial victory of the year. Steve Rampy is a longtime coach, most notably at Blue Valley and as Pittsburg State University’s offensive coordinator, before he took over Lawrence last fall. SMN lost 48-20 to Gardner-Edgerton, and then defeated Shawnee Mission West (30-27) and Leavenworth (56-13). SMN ended the season with a 35-28 loss to SM Northwest. Billy Conaway graduated after enjoyed a strong season at receiver and return man and collected Kpreps Class 6A all-state honors at wideout last year. In 2018, SMN delivered 26.2 points per contest and allowed 37.3. Two years ago, North tallied 14.7 points per game and permitted 43.9. In 2016, Will Schneider graduated after he threw for a then state record 8,901 career passing yards and led the team to 38.5 points a game. But SMN permitted 39.9 points a contest. The 2016 season featured SMN’s first playoff win in more than a decade. Rampy was previously the Indians’ offensive coordinator after he led Blue Valley to a 2006 state title where he played quarterback for his father. He was a coaching assistant at Pittsburg State and served as a co-offensive coordinator at Butler Community College before he came to SMN. “Compete every time you step across the white line,” Zach Rampy said of this fall’s goals and keys. “It’s amazing what can be accomplished when no one cares who gets the credit.” 4-5 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League Coach: Zach Rampy (2nd year) Assistants: Luke Rampy, Dennis Grayless, Trey Hobson, Deron Washington, Jeremy Milne, Aaron Sawyer, Landon Murrell, Julius Dunn, Ryan Durand, David Setter, Mike Mechina, Ty Henry Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Conor Nicholl

SHAWNEE MISSION SOUTH

Shawnee Mission South finished 7-3 and enjoyed one of the biggest turnarounds of the 2018 season. Fourth-year coach Brett Oberzan was 4-23 in his first three years at South. SMS entered 2018 with 17 straight losing seasons, according to Sunflower League historian Kevin Booker and Kansas Football History archives. In 2000, the Raiders went 5-5, and before then, SMS was 6-4 in 1997. Last year, SMS captured seven wins for the first time since 1993. Oberzan had an experienced group of seniors last year, paced by Jack Roberts. Many of the seniors started and played significant time during a winless 2016 season, and Oberzan was impressed with the 5-5 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League team’s work ethic and team chemistry. Coach: Bo Black (5th year, 11-26; 101-75 overall) Roberts earned Kpreps all-state honors at quarterAssistants: Dave Coopman, Brian Vesta, Sedrick back and signed with Pittsburg State after he passed Cook, BJ Dunbar, Seth Homolka, Skylar Parker, for 1,126 yards, rushed for 1,321 and contributed 26 Jay Black, Matt Jacobsen, Mike Tysver, Billy Dent, total touchdowns. Other key seniors on last year’s Dominic Mussat Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 team were Seth Macklin, Austin Conner, Hunter Returning lettermen: 27 Carpenter, Brett Harrison and Nolan Thimmesch. Returning starters: 8 Offense, 3 Defense Senior Will Huggins is back after a great season at Ty Black, QB, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Ty Lindenman, WR, 5-7, receiver and specialist with more than 300 receiving 150, Sr.; Justin Mitchell, WR, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Duke yards and a 50-yard field goal. One of the state’s top Henke, WR, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Kael Farkes, LT, 6-2, prospects, he has verbally committed to KU. 230, So.; Easton Dubbert, RT, 6-3, 235, Jr.; Isaac Last year, South scored 29.7 points a game and alFreeman, C, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Braden Shaul, RB, 5-10, lowed 25.8. SMS opened 3-0 with a road win against 175, Sr.; Marques Cook, DT, 6-2, 230, Sr.; William SM North (23-0), and then home victories versus SM Crafton, CB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Phillip Adams, CB, 5-9, West (27-6) and Lansing (27-0). Then, the Raiders 165, Jr. Conor Nicholl lost 54-24 to Olathe South and 35-18 at SM East.

SM South earned four straight victories against Lawrence (30-24), Olathe NW (38-21), SM NW (49-41) and Olathe NW (40-21) and then lost 56-21 to eventual state runner-up Blue Valley North. SMS trailed 14-3 against Lawrence and was 2-8 in its previous 10 meetings versus the Lions, a victory Oberzan called a turning point. Oberzan said the team goals are to “Win the Day!” and keys are “limiting turnovers and tackling.” A qualified replacement for Roberts could join 16 returning starters in taking another big step in 2019. 7-3 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League Coach: Brett Oberzan (5th year, 11-26) Assistants: Bob Ray, Chris Kiblen, Joe Kennard, Aaron McGee, Sam Jacobsen, Kevin Murphy Offense: Spread Option Defense: 3-3 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 8 Defense Terrell DeLasalle Lakemore, LT, 6-3, 228, Sr.; Parish Bruce, OG/DT, 6-0, 319, Sr.; Will Huggins, WR/TE, 6-6, 234, Sr.; Myles Tuttle, LB, 6-0, 171, Sr.; Kyle Ethan Offutt, C, 6-2, 237, Sr.; Trey Smith, S, 5-10, 152, Sr.; Logan James Hartzell, DE, 6-5, 230, Sr.; Parker Minnick, TB/S, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Zach Neher, CB, 5-11, 163, Sr.; Mac Wissel, TE, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Garrett Burgard, DE, 5-10, 204, Sr.; Spencer Hill, T, 6-3, 205, Jr.; Tucker Kramer, LB, 5-10, 187, Jr.; Brett Conner, LB, 5-9, 175, Jr.; Max Close, TE/DE, 6-4, 211, Jr.; Ike McLey, WR, 6-1, 192, Jr. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

SHAWNEE MISSION WEST

TOPEKA

After a 16-14 loss to rival Shawnee Mission Northwest in the 2018 season opener, Shawnee Mission West High School was certainly not expecting to finish the season winless for the second straight year. Shawnee Mission West has not won a football game since Oct. 28, 2016. Playing a vigorous schedule in the Sunflower League does not make things any easier, but veteran head coach Tim Callaghan has been impressed with the way this senior class has handled the adversity, and he’s also optimistic about the group of juniors and sophomores he has. “This is a tough and talented group of seniors that will be helped out by a number of juniors and quite a few sophomores,” Callaghan said. “The team is committed to each other and has worked hard in the offseason to increase their chances of success.” The Vikings return nine starters on both sides of the ball, including eight seniors. “This team will have more depth and speed,” Callaghan said. “High expectations are always here and this team will be ready for the challenge.” On offense, CJ Callaghan is primed for a breakout senior season at quarterback. He will rely on receiver Wes Clark, but the Vikings will need to develop a few more receivers. The Vikings have two returning running backs in Treyvon Gilyard and Andrew Kinney. Gilyard averaged 5.4 yards a carry and had two touchdowns last year. The Vikings also return four offensive linemen, but they will have to rely on quickness over size. On defense, the Vikings return their entire secondary and linebackers, but will need to replace two linemen. Callaghan has had success at Shawnee Mission West in his 16 years as head coach, including a 6A state championship in 2012. While the program has hit a few bumps the past two seasons, the hope is that the worst is behind them. “This is a hardworking group of players who want to continue the Viking football tradition,” Callaghan said. “They will be eager to prove themselves on every Friday night; they are ready to right the Viking ship.”

The second round of the Class 6A playoffs has been a sticking point for Topeka High since rising to prominence under Walt Alexander in the early 2010s, with the Trojans reaching the state quarterfinals just once in his tenure. High finally got back to that round last year, equalling the 9-2 mark Alexander’s 2012 team put together to match the best season in program history. A controversial overtime loss to Manhattan in Week Two denied High an undefeated regular season and after a big-time scare from Hutchinson in the playoff opener, the Trojans downed city rival Washburn Rural 56-21 to return to the quarterfinals. The run ended with a 38-7 loss to eventual state champion Derby, but the mini-breakthrough was nonetheless a big one for the Trojans. The potential to equal or surpass last year’s success mainly depends on how well Alexander can rebuild his offensive and defensive lines. Senior E’Monte Neal is the lone returning starter up front offensively and he, senior nose guard DeAngelo Jordan and senior end Troy James are the lone starters back in the trenches. Graduation claimed the likes of All-Centennial League picks Grant Cooney (first team) and Sunsee Bland (honorable mention), leaving some big holes for the Trojans to fill. There’s also a sizable one in the backfield with the graduation of Jacqez Barksdale, who ran for 1,316 yards and 23 touchdowns. But make no mistake, the Trojans are still beyond loaded with skill talent. For starters, there’s senior Ky Thomas, who is closing in on finishing in the top 10 in career rushing in state history. Last year, the Minnesota commit ran for 1,657 yards and 21 TDs while sharing the load with Barksdale and quarterback Da’Vonshai Harden. For his career, Thomas has topped 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons and has amassed 4,700 yards and 65 touchdowns. He needs just 1,300 yards to become the 11th back in state history with 6,000 rushing yards. Harden, a Kansas commit, also is back after totalling 1,602 yards of total offense, giving the Trojans one of the top 1-2 backfield punches in the state. 0-9 in 2018 / 6A / Sunflower League Seven starters return defensively, though the unit Coach: Tim Callaghan (17th year, 103-63) graduated a trio of first-team all-leaguers in Cooney, Assistants: Steve Szczygiel, Tommie Davis, Courtney linebacker Carson Klingerman and safety DeAndre Porter, Chris West, Brandon Claypool, Ryan Anderson. Lonergan, Todd Reed, John Stonner, Kez Demby, Christian Arnold 9-2 in 2018 / 6A / Centennial League Offense: Pro Style Defense: 3-3 stack Coach: Walt Alexander (14th year, 79-48) Returning lettermen: 14 Assistants: Luke Coffman, Blake Alexander, Tony Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense Canacari, Jason Nichol, Carlos Kelly, Brandon Treyvon Gilyard, RB/LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Kaden Rich- Mitchell, Tobian Thomas ardson, LB, 6-2, 215, Jr.; Wes Clark, DB/WR, 6-0, Offense: Spread Defense: 3-5 170, Sr.; Anthony Morris, DB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Jaylan Returning lettermen: 21 Bluitt, DB, 6-0, 181, Sr.; Jacob Porrit, DB/OL, 5-11, Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense 185, Sr.; Mike Williamson, LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Gage Ky Thomas, RB/FS, 6-0, 205, Sr.; Da’Vonshai Jones, DL, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Adam Hawkins, DL/OL, Harden, QB/DB, 6-3, 200, Sr.; JP Deeter, FB/LB, 5-11, 250, Sr.; Andrew Kinney, RB, 5-11, 166, Jr.; CJ 6-3, 235, So.; E’Monte Neal, OL/DL, 6-4, 345, Sr.; Callaghan, QB, 6-3, 215, Sr.; Luke Jones, FB, 5-11, Kaden Smith, RB/WR, 5-9, 185, Sr.; Troy James, DE, 210, Sr.; Carson Lilla, OL, 6-4, 185, Sr.; Brayde Huff, 6-2, 245, Sr.; DeAngelo Jordan, NG, 6-0, 245, Sr.; OL, 6-0, 220, Jr. Dominic Berry, DB/WR, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Donyel Evans, Gallagher Martin DB, 5-9, 160, Sr. Brent Maycock

WICHITA-NORTH

Scott Moshier’s second year at Wichita North may only seem slightly better than his first, but for a program as starved for success as North, it appears Moshier has things swinging in the right direction. Since 2010, Wichita North has seven wins total. In two full years at North, Moshier is responsible for two of those wins. After an 0-9 season in 2017, Moshier and North responded from a 21-game losing streak and began the 2018 season 2-0 with seven-point wins over Wichita South and Liberal. That was as much success as North would enjoy all season as the team dropped its final seven games all by double digits. For a program that hadn’t won more than one game in a season all decade, a 2-7 season was a sign that Moshier had things on the right track. But North must replace eight starters on offense and six on defense entering the 2019 season. Moshier says the goal for the season is to continue to build a competitive football team at the varsity, junior varsity, and freshman levels. “Our goal is to continue to improve in all aspects of the game and build and establish a strong roster from top to bottom so that we can become more competitive at every level at which we play during the season,” Moshier said. On offense, North must replace four of five starters along the offensive line. Look for 6-0, 210 pound senior lineman Cristian Dodd to be the anchor up

TOPEKA-WASHBURN RURAL

For the second time in three years, Washburn Rural posted a seven-win season under veteran coach Steve Buhler. The Junior Blues opened the year with three straight wins and enjoyed another three-game winning streak. Two of the three losses came to Centennial League rival Topeka High, including a 56-21 shootout in the playoffs that brought an end to the season. The only other loss came to 6A semifinalist and league foe Manhattan, a 44-7 defeat that was the only game in which Rural failed to score at least 20 points. Maintaining that level of production (30.4 points per game) will largely depend on how well Rural fills two major voids. The biggest of those is at quarterback where do-everything multi-year starter Jordan White has graduated. White stayed healthy for the duration of the 2018 season and enjoyed a huge senior year, throwing for 1,323 yards and 12 touchdowns while also rushing for 896 yards and nine scores. The task of filling those shoes will likely fall to junior Cooper Carlgren, who played sparingly behind White a year ago as a sophomore. He’ll benefit from the return of senior back Jaylen Carter, who ran for 585 yards and 10 TDs and was second-team all-league. The other major hole offensively is up front where senior center Derek Walker is the only returning starter. But Buhler feels good enough about the players stepping in that he moved another returner on the line, senior Kort Mattison, to tight end. Mattison and Carter are two of seven starters back defensively for the Junior Blues, who will need to improve after giving up 26.1 points per game last year. The top-two tacklers have graduated, but senior linebacker Drake McCall was third on the team with 69 stops and is one of five players who earned postseason honors a year ago returning along with Mattison, senior linebacker Michael McCartney and defensive backs Shawn Marquis and Joey Blakesley. Buhler expects the D to be the strength of the team as the offense gets up to speed. He’ll have to lean hard on that unit early as Rural has a tough stretch to open the season with the first four games against Emporia, Junction City, Hayden and Manhattan. The Junior Blues swept the first three of those contests last year, but only beat Emporia by four, Junction City by 10 and Hayden by 16. 7-3 in 2018 / 6A / Centennial League Coach: Steve Buhler (7th year, 30-27; 22nd overall, 139-79) Assistants: Jerry Cavitte, Steve Lincoln, Ryan Smith, Duane Zlatnik, Colter Scott, Josh Lamb, Tyler Pfizenmaier, Chris Ridley, Tyler Kelly, Chris Kerschen, Jake Wampfler Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense Jaylen Carter, RB/CB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Kort Mattison, TE/DE, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Levi Sharp, WR, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Derek Walker, C, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Drew Bortz, SB, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Drake McCall, OLB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Eric Schnurr, DL, 6-2, 320, Jr.; Shawn Marquis, CB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Joey Blakesley, S, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Michael McCartney, LB, 5-11, 170, Sr. Brent Maycock

Page 75

The Ene Akpan era at Wichita East did not get off to a good start as the Blue Aces began 2018 0-4. Akpan and company were able to turn it around by winning three straight, but back-to-back losses to Wichita West ended their season at 3-6. The Blue Aces defeated City-League foes Wichita North and Wichita Southeast, along with picking up a 20-7 win over Liberal. The East offense struggled heavily at times last season. The Blue Aces were shutout three times and were held to single digits five times. For the season, East averaged a little under 14 points a game. East returns five starters on the offensive side of the ball, led by standout running back Norman Massey. At 6-3, 205, Massey doubles as a second-team All-City linebacker. Running back Tobi Osunsanmi, who is 6-2, 195, will also receive carries, giving the Aces a pair of big weapons in the backfield. The duo will have to look no further than the sideline for inspiration as former GWAL and FBS running backs Bryce Brown and Dreamius Smith are on the East coaching staff. The Blue Aces have good size at receiver, including Amos Alford who is 6-3, 180. East also returns receivers Kamerion Hart and Caquoy Patterson. On the offensive line, look for 6-3, 280 pound junior Luke Clayton to lead the way, as will returning starters Nate Snyder and Juan Navarrete. The Blue Aces look to lean on their defense in 2019 with 11 starters back. Last season, East held teams to 25.8 points per game. East was solid defensively against South, North, Liberal, and pitched a shutout against Southeast, but Goddard, Northwest, and West all surpassed 30 points. Massey leads the way at linebacker, while All-City safeties Tavi Agnew and Nick Stiger lead the way in the secondary. The Blue Aces also return three d-linemen, all at least 200 pounds. Akpan wants to see a change in the atmosphere around East entering his second season. “Our goals are to come together as a program and build for the future, create a new culture, and win all the games that we play,” Akpan said. “Our keys to success are staying together and being disciplined, always giving great effort.” 3-6 in 2018 / 6A / Greater Wichita Athletic League Coach: Ene Akpan (2nd year, 3-6) Assistants: Dreamius Smith, Bryce Brown, Chaq Reed, Andy Curtis, James Coleman, Doug Biggs, Jason Bennett Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 11 Defense Norman Massey, RB, 6-3, 205, Sr.; Luke Clayton, OL, 6-3, 280, Jr.; Nate Snyder, OL, 5-10, 190; Eric Davis, DB/WR, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Angel Antu, DL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Juan Navarrete, OL, 6-3, 220; Breaden Barley, DL, 6-2, 210; Derrick Thomas, LB, 5-10, 215, Sr.; Tavi Agnew, DB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Isiah Salzman, DL, 5-11, 200; Nick Stiger, DB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Kamerion Hart, WR, 6-0, 175; Tobi Osunsanmi, RB, 6-2, 195; Amos Alford, WR, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Caquoy Patterson, WR, 5-10, 160 Gallagher Martin

WICHITA-SOUTH

Russ Wells is getting his chance to lead his alma mater in 2019. Wells, a graduate of Wichita South, is taking over a squad that went 3-6 in 2018. The Titans won three of their first four games, but lost their final five. South should be solid on defense with nine returning starters. The Titans return seven on offense, but lose their two most explosive playmakers in running back Antwain Scales and receiver Damion Wells. Scales rushed for 935 yards and scored 13 touchdowns, recording four, 100-yard performances and averaging seven yards a carry. The Titans did not throw the ball much last year, but when they did the target was often Wells. In fact, Wells was the only player who caught a touchdown pass, recorded double digit catches, or eclipsed 100 yards for the season. He finished last year with 424 yards and seven touchdowns. 2-7 in 2018 / 6A / Greater Wichita Athletic League For the Titans to improve this year, senior quarterCoach: Scott Moshier (3rd year, 2-16; 29th overall, back Jashun Grant will need a big year. 160-122) Assistants: Mitch Kucera, Quinton Grant, a dual-threat quarterback, threw for 513 Burgess, Eli Copeland, Jack Ewings lll, Loren yards and rushed for 280 more. He tallied seven Williams, Paul Lopez, DJ Breathett, Tyler Ashburn touchdowns through the air and four on the ground. Offense: Unbalanced Single Wing Defense: 3-4 Running back Jordan Huggins will also be a key Returning lettermen: 10 part of the Wichita South offense. Huggins rushed Returning starters: 3 Offense, 5 Defense for 235 yards and two touchdowns as a sophomore Joe Williams, RB, 5-8, 165, Sr.; Jaquan Stewart, WR/DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Cristian Dodd, OL, 6-0, 210, last season. Defensively, the Titans return a decent amount of Sr.; Angle Martinez, DB, 6-3, 195, Sr.; Ricky Garza, DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Josiah Barnes, LB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; production, but leading tacklers Sean Hallacy and CJ Reed, who combined for 130 tackles, will be missed. Teon Hicks, DL, 6-0, 190, Jr. Gallagher Martin Senior defensive back Mike Shelton will provide

front. North will rely heavily on senior running back Joe Williams. Williams rushed for 1,469 yards and nine touchdowns last season. On defense, North returns three defensive backs in Jaquan Stewart, Angle Martinez and Ricky Garza. Senior linebacker Josiah Barnes and junior defensive lineman Teon Hicks will also be relied on for experience and leadership on defense. “How quickly we can come together up front will have a huge impact on how well we can do this year on the offensive side of the ball,” Moshier said. “On defense we have to continue to improve and be able to get stops. When we were able to do this last season we showed that we could be a competitive football team.”

WICHITA-EAST

leadership on defense after recording 62 tackles last season. Junior defensive end Adam Ship could be in store for a big year after a solid sophomore season in which he had 47 tackles, including five tackles for loss. For the Titans to take a step forward in his first year, Wells knows it will come down to his returning starters. “The leadership and growth from our returning starters will be the determining factor in our ability to contend in 2019,” Wells said. “Having a winning effort and winning results are our goals for this year.” 3-6 in 2018 / 6A / Greater Wichita Athletic League Coach: Russ Wells (1st year) Assistants: Ted Tafoya, Kurt Westmoreland, Sean McDonald, Kaale McCulloch, Flozel Nibber Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 9 Defense Jo Jo White, RB/WR/DB, 5-4, 140, Sr.; Jashun Grant, QB/DB, 5-8, 170, Sr.; Josh Hazen, OL, 6-0, 265, Sr.; Daylon Harris, WR/LB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Isaiah Collins, RB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Jordan Huggins, RB, 5-7, 175, Jr.; Dylan Davis, OL, 6-1, 215, Jr.; Adam Ship, DE, 6-3, 235, Jr.; Mike Shelton, DB, 5-7, 155, Sr.; Josiah Crocklin, LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Derrick Robinson, DB, 5-11, 155, So.; Alex Goines, LB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Grant Murray, DE, 6-0, 200, Sr. Gallagher Martin

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

WICHITA-SOUTHEAST

First-year head coach Taylor Counts has accepted the challenge of rebuilding the football program at Wichita Southeast, where the Golden Buffaloes haven’t finished with a winning record since 2008. Counts is a former Salina Central standout and Pittsburg State player who most recently served as an assistant coach at Shawnee Mission North. Southeast finished 2-7 last year, and Counts is hoping to bring some much-needed success to the program. So far so good, according to Counts. “We have gotten off to an awesome start this summer with consistent numbers at workouts every day,” Counts said. “The dedication shown through all of the young men we have seen out this summer, as well as the coaching staff, has us excited to kick the season off and see what we can do.” The Golden Buffaloes are led at the quarterback position by Quintin Thomas, who possesses quick feet and a strong arm. Counts says skill position players Thomas, Larry Cherry, AJ King, and Elliott Nottingham will provide much needed offensive production. “Cherry’s speed and power will lead as an offensive weapon along with Nottingham and King to create a strong powerhouse bound to put up some good stats,” Counts said. On defense, linebacker Fontaine Dixon and defen-

sive back Sahntaj Murphy are players to keep an eye out for, as is Cherry at defensive back. “Their growth combined with their natural talents will give us defensive stops all season,” Counts said. In his first year as head coach, Counts is determined to grow his team from within. “Making it a priority to put in the time and work this summer to help us be a closer unit and well conditioned team are our keys to success,” Counts said. “Our goals are to continue to improve as a football team and build off our wins last season.”

WICHITA-WEST

Wichita West competed well against a stout schedule and finished 2018 with a 6-4 record, with the four losses against Kaupan, Bishop Carroll, Wichita Northwest and Manhattan. The combined record of those four juggernauts was 37-9 last season. West had to play Kaupan, Carroll and Northwest all within the first four weeks of the season. For that reason, the Pioneers started with a 1-3 record. West rebounded in week five with a 27-14 win at Dodge City which was the first of five straight wins. West defeated Wichita East 47-0 in the first round of the playoffs, but fell to Manhattan, 36-25, in round two. 2-7 in 2018 / 6A / Greater Wichita Athletic League Entering his 26th season as head coach at West, Coach: Taylor Counts (1st year) over two different stints, Weston Schartz thinks his Assistants: Joshua Sims, Lewis Winfield, William team has a good mix of youth and experience. Shelden, Coy Noble, James Todd, David Channel, “Our sophomore class had an undefeated freshChris Hughes man season and many will step up to varsity football Offense: Pistol Defense: 4-2-5 this year,” Schartz said. “We should be competitive Returning lettermen: 12 with everyone on the schedule and look to take Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense another step in the playoffs.” Larry Cherry, RB/DB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; AJ King, WR/DB, West will be strong up front, but will need to 5-8, 140, Jr.; Jacob Condit, OL/DL, 5-11, 212, Jr.; develop some younger skill position players. The loss Quintin Thomas, QB, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Sahntaj Murphy, of All-GWAL fullback Trevonte Hunt, receiver Xavier WR/DB, 5-10, 150, Jr.; Knowledge McPherson, RB/ Sellers and QB Zion Parks will be hard to overcome. DB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Fontaine Dixon, RB/LB, 5-10, 200, Of West’s five returning starters on offense, four of Jr.; Jakobi Livingston, OL/DL, 6-0, 220, Jr. them are offensive linemen. At 6-3, 270, senior Isaiah Gallagher Martin Canidy will anchor the line after earning second-team

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All-GWAL honors last year at offensive tackle. Schartz lists junior Cassius Williams or sophomore Geremiah Moore as potential QBs, while first-team All-GWAL linebacker Jeremiah Brown was getting snaps at QB during summer camps and 7-on-7. In total, the Pioneers return eight starters on D, including four seniors, two juniors and two sophs. “We have a good mixture of experience and youth, Schartz said. “Our biggest challenge will be having the young players step up to the varsity level.”

6-4 in 2018 / 6A / Greater Wichita Athletic League Coach: Weston Schartz (26th year, 116-94; 36th overall, 189-123) Assistants: Matt Riddle, Brent Glann, Michael Johnson, Luke Westerman, Skip McCaulley, Ted Hilger, Shawn Jay, DeMarcus Robinson Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense 8 Defense Isaiah Canidy, OL/DL, 6-3, 270, Sr.; Jordan Dillon, OL, 6-0, 280, Jr.; Kaleb Pless, OL, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Mario Perez, OL, 5-8, 220, Sr.; Joenius Rivers, WR, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Leon Dixon, DL, 6-3, 220, Jr.; Rosh Norwood, OLB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Quentin Saunders, OLB, 6-0, 185, So.; Jerome Ragin, LB, 5-9, 205, So.; J’Qwon Johnson, DB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Jeremiah Brown, S, 5-8, 170, Sr.; Ronny Thomas, LB/DL, 5-9, 190, Sr. Gallagher Martin

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"1-0" 2019 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Sept. 6 Blue Valley West Sept. 13 @ St. James Academy Sept. 20 Bishop Miege Sept. 27 St. Thomas Aquinas Oct. 4 @ Blue Valley North Oct. 11 Pittsburg Oct. 18 @ Blue Valley Oct. 25 @ Blue Valley Southwest

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 77

Class 5A

1. St. Thomas Aquinas 2. Wichita Northwest 3. Bishop Carroll 4. De Soto 5. Mill Valley Others: Emporia, Great Bend, Maize, Maize South, Olathe West, Salina Central By Brent Maycock, Topeka Capital-Journal It was only a matter of time. When Randy Dreiling took over at Aquinas, it wasn’t hard to envision the Saints evolving into one of the state’s top programs. The program already had enjoyed its share of successs prior to Dreiling’s arrival, but the addition of the coach who turned Hutchinson into the state’s premier program with six straight state championships from 2004-09 seemed to be the X-factor to push the Saints over the top. It only took five years to deliver the first title, which Aquinas secured last year with a 49-28 win over Wichita Northwest in the championship game. State runner-up in Dreiling’s first season in 2014 and again in 2017, Aquinas ran the table in 2018, winning every game by at least 11 points. That included a 41-21 rout of five-time reigning Class 4A champion Miege for the Eastern Kansas League title. Aquinas graduated a ton of talent off last year’s title team, including two-time All-State offensive lineman Joe Michalski (Oklahoma State), All-5A defensive lineman Javier Derritt (North Dakota State) and All-5A linebacker Zach Goodeyon, among others. Compounding those losses was the transfer of standout linemen Jaeden and Matthew Roberts to North Shore, Texas in the offseason with Jaeden Roberts one of the top lineman recruits in the country as a junior. Don’t feel too bad for Dreiling and the Saints though because there’s plenty left to make a run at another state championship. For starters, they’ve got arguably the best tailback in the state. Tank Young burst onto the scene a year ago as a sophomore, rushing for 2,075 yards and 26 touchdowns including 329 yards and four scores in the state championship game. Senior defensive back Kordon Harris highights the defensive returners. Wichita Northwest had no trouble putting up points a year ago, averaging a state-best 55.8 points per game and state-record 579.8 yards per game. The Grizzlies scored less than 55 points just twice, a 23-22 win over Carroll in the season opener and the title-game loss to Aquinas. Northwest fell one win shy of an undefeated season and the program’s first state championship, but should be in the hunt again this year in its second season in Class 5A. The offense lost a huge weapon in two-time All-State back Breece Hall, the program’s all-time leading rusher who topped 2,000 years in both of his seasons starting, finishing with 4,209 in his career. Backfield running mate Roy Johnson (1,400 yards) is also gone, but the offense remains in the capable hands of senior quarterback Reagan Jones, who threw for more than 2,800 yards and ran for more than 1,500 in his first year with the program after transferring from Andover Central. Northwest’s defense gave up a lot of points a year ago, including more than 60 twice, and will have to replace the heart and soul of the unit with the graduation of All-5A linebacker Josh Carter and All-5A end Marcus Hicks.

Photo by Brian Harvey

Photo by Brian Turrel, Wyandotte Daily News

Alex Schremmer

David Kemp

KANSAS PREGAME CLASS 5A PRESEASON RANKINGS

Jaylin Richardson

12 PLAYERS TO WATCH

Luke Barger [De Soto] 6-2, 214, LB, Sr.; 124 tackles in 2018 Connor DeLong [Olathe West] 6-3, 180, WR, Sr.; 800 yards, 8 TDs in 2018 Syris Dunlap [Liberal] 5-9, 160, QB, Sr.; 3,500+ career all-purpose yards Reid Holthaus [Shawnee Heights] 6-5, 240, OL/DE, Sr.; 2-Way All-UKC Second Team Kyle Kelly [Mill Valley] 6-6, 255, OL, Sr.; Arkansas State Commit

Northwest was able to out-gun both Carroll (84-67) and Maize (67-60) in playoffs shootouts and the path back to the 5A title game will likely include one or both of those programs again. Carroll was the 2017 5A champion and lost only to Northwest (twice) and 6A champion Derby last year. The Golden Eagles dealt with injuries all season, using three different quarterbacks throughout the campaign with sophomore Aiden Niedens finally settling in and throwing for 1,710 yards and 17 touchdowns. He’s one of seven starters back offensively for Carroll with four linemen also back, including first-team all-leaguer Ethan McMillan. The Golden Eagles have more holes to fill defensively with only four starters back, but the program remains one of the most consistent in the state, having lost just 13 regular-season games in the last 15 years and posting 21 straight seasons of six or more victories. Maize’s rise in 5A is far more recent and last year’s 10-2 mark was the best in program history with the only losses coming to Northwest and Derby. If trhe Eagles are to show some staying power, they’ll have to find a way to replace All-State quarterback Caleb Grill, who threw for 3,122 yards and 36 touchdowns last year. They do return one of the state’s top receivers in Preven Christon and a defensive stud in lineman Kyle Haas and veteran coach Gary Guzman feels the program is in a place to simply reload for another run. Mill Valley failed to reach the state semifinals for the first time

Courtesy Photo

Here are 12 players to watch in Class 5A this fall:

David Kemp [Andover] 5-10, 160, K, Jr.; All-State, nationally ranked Cade Lautt [St. James Academy] 5-10, 220, LB, Sr.; 120 tackles, 10 TFLs in 2018 Manowa Ngenzirabona [KC Schlagle] 6-0, 225, RB/LB, Sr.; KC-AL Defensive MVP in 2018 Chance Omli [Goddard-Eisenhower] 6-2, 180, WR/DB, Sr.; All-AVCTLII d-back in 2018 Jaylin Richardson [KC Schlagle] 6-1, 220, RB, Sr.; KU Commit Alex Schremmer [Great Bend] 5-10, 165, WR, Sr.; 60 rec., 1,178 yards, 15 TDs in 2018 Tank Young [St. Thomas Aquinas] 5-7, 175, RB, Jr.; 2,000 yards, 26 TDs in 2018

in four years, falling to Aquinas in the quarterfinals, but the Jaguars still went 7-4 with half of its losses to Aquinas. Junior lineman Ethan Kremer is a standout on both sides of the ball and the Jaguars should be solid in the trenches overall while having to replace the bulk of its skill players. Olathe West made a splash in its first year, rebounding from a 2-6 regular season to win three straight playoff games and reach the semifinals. The Owls will return nine starters both ways and the taste of late-season success should carry over. Great Bend went 8-3 last year and has WAC defensive MVP Dalton Miller back, as well as All-5A receiver Alex Schremmer and running back Gage Fritz. The Panthers will miss standout quarterback Koy Brack, but have shown the ability to reload at that position in years past. Salina Central lost standout back Taylon Peters, but returns quarterback Jackson Kavanaugh after going 7-3 last year in a bounce-back campaign. Emporia was just 5-5 last year, but is experienced and has one of the top linemen in 5A in Hayden Pauls, while Maize South returns nine defensive starters from a 6-4 team. Many thought DeSoto would drop off after graduation hit hard. Instead, the Wildcats went 8-3 and reached the quarterfinals in their first year in 5A. This year they return 18 total starters. KC Schlagle is loaded with talented players, including Kansas commit Jaylin Richardson, but the Stallions still must show they can compete outside their soft league schedule.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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ANDOVER

A youthful Andover Trojans team went 3-6 last year against a loaded AVCTL-II schedule. Still, the Trojans were close to turning a 3-6 year into a 7-2 season. Andover lost one-possession games to Kapuan, Valley Center, Andover Central and Maize South last season. The Trojans ended last season on a threegame losing streak, including a 21-17 heartbreaker to Maize South in the Class 5A playoffs. Entering his third season at Andover, head coach Cade Armstrong has now seen a 5-5 season and a 3-6 season. With youth that has turned into experience, Armstrong is hoping to guide Andover to greater success this fall. “Having our upperclassmen become leaders on and off the held will be our keys to success,” Armstrong said. “We return a lot of starters and we are older than we have been in two years.” Junior quarterback Eli Fahnestock headlines the Andover offense. A two-year starter, Fahnestock is coming off a solid sophomore season in which he threw for 1,079 yards and six touchdowns. He also ran for 176 yards and three more touchdowns. Junior RB Peyton Henry is also a vital piece of the offense. Last season, Henry rushed for 475 yards on 100 carries and scored three rushing TDs in just six games because of injury. Henry has 4.4 speed. He is also one of the leading receivers after hauling in 29 catches for 300 yards and three TDs. At 6-4, 185, senior Harper Jonas led the team in catches (33) and receiving yards (403) last season. Ethan Richardson is another top target. The junior caught 28 passes for 334 yards and three scores. Defensively, Chandler Goodnight was second on the team in tackles last year as a freshman with 79 and tops on the team with 11 sacks. Junior Ashton Ngo led the team with 88 tackles and had six sacks. At 6-5, 230, senior Connor Hall is a force on the d-line, where he posted 76 tackles and nine sacks. Armstrong has some lofty goals for the season: “Our goals are to win all our home games and win the AVCTLII,” Armstrong said. 3-6 in 2018 / 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II Coach: Cade Armstrong (3rd year, 8-11) Assistants: Shawn Woods, Dustin Murray, Austin Bohanon, Rick Lee, Trey Bryan, Tyson Liston, James Hilts Offense: Spread Defense: Odd Stack Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Eli Fahnestock, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Peyton Henry, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Harper Jonas, 6-4, 185, Sr.; Cole Elder, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Ethan Richardson, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Max Smith, 5-9, 180, Jr.; Connor Hall, 6-5, 230, Sr.; Dillon Schobourgh, 5-11, 220, Jr.; Jacob Wolfe, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Ashton Ngo, 5-11, 215, Jr.; Chandler Goodnight, 5-11, 200, So.; Isaiah Maikori, 6-1, 190, Jr. GM

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DE SOTO

EMPORIA

Brian King is on the cusp of turning De Soto into a perennial power. Another big season in 2019 should do the trick. In King’s first season in 2013, De Soto went 0-9. Since then, De Soto is 34-18 which includes a trip to the 4A-Division I semifinals back in 2017. Last season, the Wildcats went 8-3 and lost in the 5A Quarterfinals to first-year program Olathe West, 24-7. The Wildcats went 4-1 and finished second only to Basehor-Linwood in the first year of the United Kansas Conference. The Wildcats graduated a large, talented senior class, but King has still set goals to win the UKC while being the most physical team in the league. “We graduated a very good senior class, which included seven all-conference players, three of which played in the Metro All-Star game, with another starting in the Shrine Bowl,” King said. “We graduated about 77 percent of our receiving yards and about 32 percent of our rushing yards. With all of that being said, we return a lot of talent and experience on both sides of the ball.” The offense will be led by junior QB Jackson Miller, who threw for 1,053 yards and 14 TDs and rushed for 545 yards and 10 TDs last season. Miller threw 10 of his 14 touchdown passes to Keegan Sturdy last year, but Sturdy has graduated and left a large hole in the receiving corps. Additionally, the Wildcats do not return a single receiver who caught a touchdown pass last season. The Wildcats will be a bit more experienced on the defensive side of the ball. Luke Barger and his team-leading 124 tackles are back in 2019. In total, the Wildcats return six defenders who earned first or second team All-UKC honors last season. “Our keys to success will be to continue to grow from the mistakes of 2018, stay healthy and develop depth, and play a disciplined, physical brand of football every night,” King said.

A good season was nearly a great one for Emporia in 2018. The Spartans finished with a 5-5 record, but man were they close to something much greater. Three of the five losses were by four points or less, and there were games where Emporia had chances. It started with a 28-24 season-opening loss to Washburn Rural, a game Emporia led throughout but turned it over deep in their own territory to give Rural the win. It continued with a 16-13 loss to Parker Legend (Colo.) in Week Three and reached an agonizing climax with a 27-26 loss to Topeka High. The only other losses came to 6A semifinalist Manhattan and 5A runner-up Wichita Northwest. Emporia knocked off Wichita Heights in the playoff opener before falling to Northwest and the Spartans also picked up a big 23-20 win over Junction City. A defense that was solid most of last year should be the strength of the team this year with nine starters back, including seven of the top-nine tacklers. Senior d-back Beau Baumgardner led the Spartans with 98 stops, including 73 solo on his way to firstteam all-league honors. He’s one of five returning starters who earned all-league on that side of the ball with senior lineman Riley Wagner also a first-team selection after making 66 tackles and 21 TFLs. Wagner is also part of a strong offensive line which returns Iowa State commit Hayden Pauls, who had a number of FBS offers before picking the Cyclones. Graduation did claim All-Class 5A lineman Myles Livingston, who is now at Kansas State. The biggest key for Emporia offensively will be filling some holes at the skill positions, namely threeyear starting QB Jace Stewart, who threw for 1,009 yards and seven touchdowns and ran for 453 yards and nine scores. Junior Kadyn Williams and senior Cade Kohlmeier are locked in a tight battle for the job with senior John Miller also possibly in the mix. Emporia did lose leading rusher Gabe Galindo and 3-6 in 2018 / 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II top receiver Spencer Stewart, but Skyler Douglas Coach: Darrin Fisher (1st year) returns after rushing for 505 yards and nine TDs. Assistants: Matt Busby, Jimmy McDowell, Kris 8-3 in 2018 / 5A / United Kansas Conference Houseberg, Enrique Espinoza, Lance Francis, Jason Coach: Brian King (7th year, 34-27) 5-5 in 2018 / 5A / Centennial League Gamble Assistants: Joel Thaemert, Mark Gastelum, Tod Coach: Corby Milleson (6th year, 20-26) Hessong, Lynn Hoffman, Bob Gadwood, Justin Assistants: Randy Wells, Jay Adkins, Keaton Tuttle, Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Stack Returning lettermen: N/A Pickens, Beau Gadwood, Dale Hurt, Erik Bell Terry Taylor, Patrick Wilhite, Wyatt Kropp, Zach Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-4 Dreher, Mike Sauer, Bryce Crouch Offense: Spread Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense Collin Mackey, QB, 6-3, 205, Sr.; Parker Wenzel, RB, Returning lettermen: 27 Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 15 5-8, 190, Sr.; Chance Omli, WR/DB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense Returning starters: 6 Offense, 9 Defense Jackson Miller, QB, Jr.; Russell Coy, RB, Jr.; Tyson Hayden Pauls, OL, 6-4, 265, Sr.; Beau Baumgardner, Cole Radar, OL, 5-11, 220, Sr.; Chase Burkholder, OL, 5-10, 225, Sr.; Cody Hawks, LB, 6-0, 205, So.; Priddy, RB, Jr.; Jake Rosen, WR, Sr.; Hayden DB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Riley Wagner, OL/DL, 5-11, 225, Henderson, WR, Jr.; Zach Bergeron, OL, Sr.; Logan Sr.; Connor Hoyt, DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Charles Snyder, Ian Stevens, DL, 5-11, 220, Sr.; Connor Dawson, LB, 5-11, 185, Sr. Newsom, OL, Sr.; Jarred Peterson, OL, Sr.; Eli Gratz, TE/DE, 6-5, 200, Jr.; Andrew Wendling, LB, 5-10, Gallagher Martin K, Sr.; Jonah Reynolds, DL, Sr.; Mason Ericson, DL, 170, Sr.; Cade Kohlmeier, LB/QB/WR, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Luke Barger, LB, Sr.; Mason Parrish, LB, Sr.; Sr.; John Miller, QB/DE/FB, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Kadyn Lucas Nascimento, LB, Sr.; Shane Watts, DB, Sr.; Williams, QB/WR/DB, 5-8, 165, Jr., Skyler Douglas, Austin Rosetta, DB, Jr.; Dallas Williams, DB/P, Sr.GM RB/OLB, 5-10, 175, Sr. Brent Maycock

GREAT BEND

Great Bend enjoyed a three-win improvement after a 5-4 season in ’17. The Panthers went 4-0 in league and captured the Western Athletic Conference title. GB opened with a road win against Andover (3512) and then beat rival Hays High, 15-7, in a game decided late in the fourth quarter. GB fell 56-34 to eventual 5A State Runner-up Wichita Northwest and bested Dodge City, 35-15, before a 36-33 loss to Bishop Carroll when the Golden Eagles made a big comeback late. Five straight victories followed, all by at least 17 points, including a 31-7 home playoff win versus Kapaun. Then, the Panthers lost 28-21 in a close quarterfinal game with Maize. GB graduated quarterback Koy Brack, a Shrine Bowler, who passed for 2,203 yards with a 22/11 TD/ INT ratio, but there is still offensive production back for the Panthers. Senior running back Gage Fritz returns after tallying 1,184 yards and nine scores on 180 carries. Dalton Miller, who has started on defense since he was a freshman, delivered 72 carries for 514 yards and nine scores, and had 26 catches for 334 yards and four TDs and is expected to take over for Brack under center. Alex Schremmer is one of the state’s top receivers with 60 catches for 1,178 yards and 15 scores. Overall, GB graduated 18 players with 12 being

Supporting Area Youth

Eisenhower ventured into enemy territory to find its newest head football coach. Darrin Fisher, the former defensive coordinator and head baseball coach at Goddard, is replacing former Eisenhower head coach Marc Marinelli, who left to join the Wichita Northwest staff. Fisher is taking over a program that finished 3-6 last year and hasn’t had a winning record since going 7-5 in 2015. The Tigers return several key pieces in 2019 which should give Fisher a chance at fielding a competitive team in year one. How quickly his team can adjust to a new style of football will perhaps be the biggest indicator if Eisenhower will take a step forward or not. “The key to our team’s success will be our team’s ability to adapt to a new system and philosophy,” Fisher said. The Eisenhower offense struggled at times last year, but showed flashes of excellence in wins at Ark City and Valley Center. On the season, the Tigers averaged just over 17 points a game. Returning the team’s leading passer, rusher, and receiver should help those numbers. Senior quarterback Collin Mackey is back under center. He will have his favorite target Chance Omli to throw to, while running back Parker Wenzel completes the three-headed monster on offense. The Tigers also return two offensive linemen in Cole Radar and Chase Burkholder. The Eisenhower defense was solid last year and got better as the season progressed. Not counting a season-opening 44-7 loss to Salina Central, the Tigers allowed an average of 23 points a game over the final eight games, including 20 points to the same Salina Central team in the first round of the playoffs. Eisenhower returns four on the defensive side of the ball, including Omli at defensive back who was an all-league selection. The Tigers also welcome back defensive lineman Ian Stevens, and linebackers Cody Hawks and Connor Dawson. The Tigers do lose a lot of talent and production on defense, so developing younger guys will be a major emphasis in Fisher’s first year. “Team goals for this year are to improve each day, continually build strength in the weight room and form a strong work ethic on and off the field,” Fisher said.

starters. Defensively, Miller recorded 96 tackles with five interceptions, two fumble recoveries and two defensive touchdowns and was the WAC defensive MVP; he, Brack and Schremmer were all Kpreps.com All-State picks, while Fritz was first team all-conference. Tate Murray anchors the inexperienced offensive line, while Alan Miramontes and Zach Seymour lead the front six on defense. Miller, at free safety, paces a secondary that returns all starters.

HAYS

Tony Crough posted a 3-6 record in his first season with Hays High, the same record HHS had the year prior. However, the Indians changed from a defensive-minded team to a more offensive focused unit in 2018. Last year, the Indians passed for 1,699 yards, and led the Western Athletic Conference with 1,616 rushing yards. Overall, HHS finished second in the league with 3,315 total yards and 263 points, according to Hays High broadcaster/WAC statistician Dustin Armbruster. Hays High, though, permitted 292 points and 3,065 total yards. On a per-game average, HHS delivered 29.2 points 8-3 in 2018 / 5A / Western Athletic Conference and 368 yards a game, and allowed 32.4 points and Coach: Erin Beck (4th year, 23-9) 341 yards a contest. Assistants: Cody Carlson, Dustin Klassen, Brandon In 2017, Hays High tallied 14.3 points and allowed Wells, Randy Beck, Sergio Ramirez, Jeff Lutt, Kelly just 18.2. The Indians allowed just 227 yards a game, Brack, Bryce Wells, Bill Maddy, Jayce Brack but tallied just 206 a contest, easily the worst in the Offense: Spread Defense: Stack/Multiple conference. Returning lettermen: 16 Crough quickly turned Parker Hutchison into a Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense quarterback, and he enjoyed a solid senior year last Alex Schremmer, WR, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Dalton Miller, fall with 123 of 246 (50 percent) for 1,640 yards with QB/FS, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Peyton Duvall, WR, 6-3, 180, a 12/12 TD/INT ratio. Sr.; Gage Fritz, RB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Tate Murray, OT, Senior Hayden Brown returns after he rushed for 6-0, 270, Sr.; Alan Miramontes, DL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; 814 yards and 11 scores. He enjoyed a mammoth Joey Soupiset, OLB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Alex Olivas, OLB, game in a 53-20 win versus Wichita South with 6-1, 180, Sr.; Bryce Brown, CB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Carsyn six touchdowns (five rushing and a 77-yard kickoff Schooler, CB, 5-10, 145, Sr. return). Brown delivered 16 carries for 154 yards Conor Nicholl in the game. For the season, Brown caught four receiving scores.

Hays High opened with two road games with a 56-31 loss against Junction City and a 15-7 defeat to Great Bend. Then, HHS beat Liberal, 21-20, and fell at Garden City, 35-28. After the 53-20 home win versus Wichita South, Hays High built a sizable lead versus Dodge City, but the Red Demons came back to win 34-33 in Hays. DC scored all 34 points in the second half after Hays High built leads of 20-0 and 33-14. The final score came on a 65-yard hook-andladder with 3:35 left. The Indians defeated Buhler, 41-21, and ended the year with losses at Salina Central (43-21) and at Kapaun (48-28). 3-6 in 2018 / 5A / Western Athletic Conference Coach: Tony Crough (2nd year, 3-6; 5th year, 19-19) Assistants: Layton Hickel, Cole Cherryholmes, Mitch Harris, Nathan Howard, Alex Hutchins, Kyle Hadley, Peyton Harris, Brandon Hardwick, Kyle Porter, Trey O’Neil Offense: 4-2-5 Defense: Spread Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Hayden Brown, RB/WR, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Luke Fletcher, OL, 6-4, 250, Sr.; Brock Lummus, OL, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Dylan Ruder, WR, 6-9, 190, Sr.; Taivian Creamer, DB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Drake Summers, DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Trey Adams, DE, 6-6, 240, Jr.; Gavin Meyers, LB, 6-2, 195, So.; Gavin Nutting, DT, 5-10, 250, So.; Roy Moroni, DB, 5-10, 175, So. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

KC-FL SCHLAGLE

Schlagle ramped up its schedule a year ago, replacing many of its previous patsies with stiff competition including Burleson (Texas), Shawnee Heights and Basehor-Linwood. The result was a few less wins than the Stallions had become accustomed to in recent years, but arguably a more competitive product overall. Schlagle finished with a 6-4 mark and added another league title to its résumé. Expectations are higher this season with the Stallions returning numerous key players, including eight starters on offense and seven on defense. The best of the bunch is senior back Jaylin Richardson. A transfer from Turner a year ago, Richardson stepped in as the feature back to follow 2,000-yard rushers Cornelius Ruff and Ivan Webb. Richardson couldn’t quite hit that level against the stiffer defenses the Stallions faced, but still was close to 1,000 yards and was enough of an impact player to earn league offensive MVP honors. The senior back has committed to KU. Backfield running mate Manowa Ngenzirabona is also drawing attention on the recruiting trail, but more as a linebacker where he was the team’s leading tackler a year ago and the league’s defensive MVP. An improved passing game would also help as the Stallions didn’t pose much of a threat through the air a year ago. Returning receivers Josh Becton and Kendall Brewer are solid targets, though Becton could move to QB. Brewer is also a top defensive back and has interest from DII programs. Both lines have holes to fill with two-way first-team all-leaguer Paul Beasley lost to graduation. 6-4 in 2018 / 5A / Kansas City-Atchison League Coach: Taylor Wallace (1st year) Assistants: Reggie Jones, Anthony Williams, TJ Wallace, Stepfan McIntosh, Keith O’Neill Offense: Inside Veer Defense: 3-3-5 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Josh Becton, WR/CB/QB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Kendall Brewer, WR/CB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Manowa Ngenzirabona, RB/LB, 6-0, 225, Sr.; Jaylin Richardson, RB/OLB, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Jesus Simental, OL/DL, 6-3, 285, Sr.; Elija Taylor, WR/DB, 5-8, 150, JR.; Exavier Taylor, WR/DB, 5-6, 135, Sr.; Greg Wilson, OL/DE, 6-4, 215, Sr.; Shay Rainey, OL/LB, 6-0, 200, So.; Shamar Bush, WR/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Ryan Smith, OL/DE, 6-2, 195, So.; Samuel Poke, TE/ LB, 6-3, 235, Sr. Brent Maycock

KC-SUMNER ACADEMY

Sumner Academy returns just eight lettermen from a 4-5 team last season. The Sabres lost 13 seniors and have just five senior starters back, and three returning junior starters. Fifth-year coach Andrew Wright knows his team will be young and he’ll be counting on many underclassmen to get the job done in 2019. “Team goal for this season is to grow and gain experience,” Wright said. “Our goal is simply to get better each practice and to improve week by week.” All five of Sumner’s losses last year were by at least three scores. On the flip side, three of Sumner’s four wins came by six points or less. “We hope to be competitive in every game this season and to again gain experience that will benefit these freshmen and sophomores as they get older,” Wright said. The Sabres were consistent on offense, scoring at least 14 points in every game and were only held below 20 points twice. Sumner returns six starters on offense: senior QB Dominic Lee, running backs Malachi Moore and Andy Bristow, and wide receivers Dakota Austin and Kyun Jackson. The offensive line will be led by Moises Diaz (5-10, 190) and Tolulope Adejo (6-4, 230). The Sabres struggled on defense and must replace seven starters. Sumner allowed at least 20 points in each game and allowed 30 points or more in seven. The Sabres will rely on the senior linebacker duo of Moore and Michael Shultz, while Adejo will anchor the d-line and Jackson will lead the secondary. Sumner will be inexperienced and lack depth, but if they play smart and rely on their returning starters, they have a chance to build on last year’s results. “In order for us to have a successful season in 2019, one key is to limit injuries,” Wright said. “Our seniors must also help the young kids along.” 4-5 in 2018 / 5A / Kansas City-Atchison League Coach: Andrew Wright (5th year, 14-19) Assistants: Austin Bennett, Steve Williams, Geoff Wright, Frank Gonzalez, Steve Williams Jr., Jourdaine Smallwood Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Dominic Lee, QB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Malachi Moore, RB/LB, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Dakota Austin, WR, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Michael Shultz, LB/TE, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Moises Diaz, OL, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Kyun Jackson, WR/FS, 6-3, 165, Jr.; Tolulope Adejo, OL/DL, 6-4, 230, Jr.; Andy Bristow, RB, 5-10, 170, Jr. Gallagher Martin

KC-TURNER

KC-WASHINGTON

With all the production Turner lost heading into 2018, it’s no wonder the Golden Bears went 1-8. The season started with a 28-20 win over Harmon, but that was the only success Turner would taste all season long. This year marks Julian Parks’ third year as head coach and the program’s second year in the United Kansas Conference. Turner returns 25 lettermen from last year, but just two starters from a defense that allowed over 52 points a game. In fact, opponents scored at least 48 points against Turner in all but two games, including an 82-point let down against fellow 1-8 squad Leavenworth. On offense, the Golden Bears will look to run the ball with an experienced offensive line. Turner has six returning starters on offense, including offensive linemen DeAndre Burton, Joseph Castle, Gabe Martinez and Juan Chavez. Junior quarterback Paul Vogan is more of a threat with his legs than his arm and will likely lead the team in rushing. Senior running back Luke Green will also be a vital part of the offense. The Turner offense was held to single digits in six of nine games and averaged a little over 11 points a game on the season. Parks knows what he wants to do offensively. With four returning offensive linemen and a mobile quarterback, he may be able to do just that. “Our goals for the season are to use our returning front line to establish a run game that controls the game,” Parks said. “Running the football will be our key to success.” 1-8 in 2018 / 5A / United Kansas Conference Coach: Julian Parks (3rd year, 6-14) Assistants: Andy Pinnell, Peter Neri, Cooper Bell, Jon Portanova, Shelby Steffen Offense: Pro Style Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 25 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 2 Defense Paul Vogan, QB, 5-8, 165, Jr.; Bryce Evans, WR/ DB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Kevin Smith Jr., WR/DB, 6-1, 175, So.; DeAndre Burton, OL/DL, 6-0, 230, Jr.; Joseph Castle, OL/DL, 6-2, 260, Sr.; Gabe Martinez, OL/DL, 5-10, 280, Sr.; Luke Green, RB/LB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Juan Chavez, OL/DL, 5-10, 265, Sr. Gallagher Martin

Page 79

Another year, another new head coach for Washington. But unlike his predecessors, Camron Smith expects to stick around. “This is my first of many seasons at my alma mater,” Smith said. “I will retire as a coach from Washington.” Smith is taking over for Scott Strenk, who was the team’s fifth coach in five seasons. It is no secret the program is in dire need of consistency. From a certain perspective, the Wildcats were consistent last year. Washington went 4-5 last year. Every loss was followed by a win and vice versa. Last year was a two-win improvement from the season prior, but the program is still searching for its first winning season since going 5-4 in 2014. One of Smith’s top priorities is getting Washington back above .500. “Our goals are to complete a winning season, win the Kansas City-Atchison League, and host for districts,” Smith said. Washington finished third in the KCAL behind Atchison and Schlagle. The Wildcats had no problems with the other three teams in the league, defeating Sumner Academy, Wyandotte and Harmon by at least three touchdowns a piece. The Wildcats will be talented in skill positions, but inexperienced in the trenches. Washington returns three wide receivers, a tight end, a running back, and starting quarterback Thomas Anderson. Wide receiver Markeith Grayson earned all-conference and all-state recognition last season and has received offers to play for both the Army and Naval Academies after high school. 4-5 in 2018 / 5A / Kansas City-Atchison League Coach: Camron Smith (1st year) Assistants: Nicholas McGrain, William Collins, Deron Bruce, Lucas Lanning, Tom Kirker, Steven Vincent Offense: Pro Style Defense: 4-3 Returning starters: N/A Tywan Muturi, WR/DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Markeith Grayson, WR/LB, 6-3, 188, Sr.; Antuan Foster, RB/ DB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Thomas Anderson, QB/DB, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Mustafa Conway, WR/DB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Dominic Jacobs, TE/DE, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Willie Fields, LB, 5-10, 180, Sr. Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

LANSING

LEAVENWORTH

LENEXA-ST. JAMES ACADEMY

A team’s losing record can always be deceiving in the Eastern Kansas League. Such is the case with St. James Academy, who finished the year 2-8, but played some tight games with the best in Kansas. The Thunder won their season opener against Blue Valley Northwest, but proceeded to drop seven straight. In week two, the Thunder dropped a 14-13 contest to Mill Valley after leading 13-0 in the fourth quarter. The following week saw the Thunder lose 35-32 to Blue Valley West in a game that head coach Tom Radke said he feels his team should have won. The next week featured an uncompetitive loss to five-time 4A state champions Bishop Miege. “That was a tough stretch mentally for our guys,” Radke said. “We then had a run of injuries that had us scrambling to put a quality product on the field. When those guys came back late in the year we played well, then went on a little run to finish the year.” The Thunder may be the most talented team coming off a 2-8 record in the state. Quarterback Jack Moellers garners a lot of attention, and rightfully so. Moellers, a senior this year, threw for over 1,500 yards and 11 touchdowns while rushing for 411 and four more scores. Two-time All-EKL running back Michael Tujague is also a vital part of the offense. Last season Tujague rushed for 565 yards and six scores. Tujague is also the team’s second leading receiver after catching 33 passes for 409 yards and two scores. Tight end J.J. Tylick, who recorded 509 receiving yards and three touchdowns on only 30 catches, is Moellers’ favorite target. 5-4 in 2018 / 5A / United Kansas Conference Versatile offensive lineman Max Kalny (6-5, Coach: Dylan Brown (2nd year, 5-4) 285) is one of the KC-Metro’s top offensive line Assistants: Byron Mays, Brad Gourley, Jeff Gourley, 1-8 in 2018 / 5A / United Kansas Conference prospects. Trent Schneider, Doug Catloth, George Shannon, Coach: Sean Sachen (1st year) On defense, future North Carolina Tar Heel Larry Brown Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-3 Assistants: Steve Short, Gary Soske, Justin Bode, Returning lettermen: 18 Brad Betow, Kyle Gurss, RJ Suttles, Jeffrey George, wrestler Cade Lautt was the team’s best defender Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense last year with 120 tackles, including 10 for loss, Jason Randall, Jesse Smallwood Luke Schneider, QB, 6-0, 198, Sr.; Derrick Robinson, Offense: Pistol Spread Defense: 4-2-5 from his linebacker position. SB/DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Reece Thomas, WR, 5-11, Returning lettermen: N/A Radke is also high on defensive end Paul 175, Sr.; Brock Brown, TE/DE, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Garret Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Lee and linebacker Xzavier Person to lead the Wecas, RT/DL, 6-5, 255, Sr.; Logan Buffo, LG, Keenan Brown, RB/SS, Jr.; Jahawn Byrd, RB, Sr.; defense. 5-11, 200, Jr.; Drew French, LT, 6-2, 260, Jr.; Malik JoVaughn Darthard, FS, Sr.; Anthony Garcia, OL/DL, “We have a lot of experience coming back, so Benson, WR, 6-0, 165, Jr.; Bryson Raymond, DB, Sr.; Alijandro Griese, DL, Jr.; Santiago McLaughlin, our biggest challenge is getting the right people in 5-10, 165, Jr.; Dylan Ward, LB, 6-2, 215, Jr.; Conor CB, Jr.; Justin Pettis, OL, Jr.; Dante Smith, LB, Sr.; the right positions,” Radke said. Baker, DL, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Josh McGuire, DL, 5-8, On the surface, Lansing appeared to be just an average team last year after going 5-4 and getting bounced by St. James in the first round of the playoffs. But the Lions showed glimpses of excellence, highlighted by a 14-13 win over 4A semifinalist Basehor-Linwood. Lansing’s only league loss was to De Soto as the Lions went 4-1, good for a three-way tie with Basehor-Linwood and De Soto atop the UKC. Lansing began the year 1-3 before rattling off four straight wins by an average of 34 points to close out the regular season. The Lions ended their season with a 34-27 loss to a St. James Academy team that was much better than its 2-7 record would indicate. The Lions return eight starters on offense and seven on defense and have the potential to compete for a UKC championship in the league’s second year. Finding a replacement for running back Konner Mcquillian, who rushed for a team-high 1,005 yards and 11 touchdowns, will be the most prominent issue on offense. The Lions do return a talented dual-threat quarterback in senior Luke Schneider, who rushed for 246 yards and seven touchdowns while throwing for 581 yards and four touchdowns. Schneider only threw 95 passes last year, but he completed 53 percent of them with only one interception. Slot back Derrick Robinson will also be vital to Lansing’s success on offense. The senior rushed for 384 yards on only 40 carries (9.6 yards per carry) and scored two touchdowns. The Lions also return three offensive linemen, a tight end, and two wide receivers. The Lansing defense returns a good mix of production with three d-backs, a linebacker, and three defensive linemen all back from last year’s team. Junior defensive back Liam Terry is the team’s leading returning tackler with 36 stops last year. Senior defensive end Brock Brown was a menace to opposing quarterbacks last year with five sacks.

220, Jr.; Liam Terry, DB, 5-9, 160, Jr.

A move from the tough Sunflower League to the newly formed United Kansas Conference didn’t do much to change Leavenworth’s fortunes. Facing a predominantly 5A schedule for the first time in years, Leavenworth only managed a 1-8 record. The lone win saw the Pioneers explode for 82 points in an 82-21 rout of KC Turner. Leavenworth didn’t allow fewer than 35 points in any of its losses and wound up giving up 402 points on the season (44.7 per game). The offense scored at least two touchdowns in all but one game, but the defensive deficiencies were just too much with Leavenworth’s closest defeat a 35-20 loss to Shawnee Heights. Veteran coach Mark Littrell retired following last season and Sean Sachen is now in charge of the program. Sachen previously served as head coach coach at Immaculata before joining Littrell’s staff in 2014. Sachen most recently served as the team’s defensive coordinator and plans to maintain the same offensive and defensive philosophies the Pioneers used under Littrell. Getting the ball in the hands of senior back Jahawn Byrd will be a top priority. Byrd only played in six games last year, but more times than not when he was on the field, he was electric. He finished the season with 793 yards and eight TDs, highlighted by a monster 353-yard, six-TD game in the rout of Turner. He enjoyed three other games of 100-plus yards and could have a solid backfield complement in junior Keenan Brown, who was third on the team in rushing with 185 yards. The Pioneers will have to replace QB Robert McKinley, who threw for 819 yards but return four of last year’s top receivers, led by senior Devin Whitworth (371 yards). Three o-linemen also return. Senior JoVaughn Darthard ranked third on the team in tackles last year with 60 and is part of a solid secondary that includes Whitworth, who picked off a team-high four passes last year.

Luke Wagner, OL, Jr.; Devin Whitworth, WR/CB, Sr. Brent Maycock

MAIZE

Boasting one of the top quarterbacks in the state in All-State selection Caleb Grill, Maize put together the best season in school history last year. The Eagles ripped off dominating victories in its first eight contests before dropping a tough 35-21 loss to eventual Class 6A state champion Derby in the regular-season finale. It was merely a blip on the radar as Maize bounced back to win its first three playoff games before losing a wild 67-60 shootout with Wichita Northwest in the Class 5A state semifinals, the defeat deying the program its first appearance in a state championship game. Yet the 10-2 record was a program-making season, coming on the heels of a 9-2 mark in 2017. Now the task is for the Eagles to keep the run going despite losing some serious talent to graduation. No loss is bigger than that of Grill, the three-sport standout who will play basketball at Iowa State. Grill re-wrote Maize’s record books for passing and last year threw for 3,122 yards and 36 touchdowns, finishing his career with 5,471 yards and 53 TDs. Either senior Cam Jurgensen or junior Isaac Stanton is expected to fill those massive shoes and will have the luxury of having one of the state’s top receivers back to help transition to the starting role. Preven Christon hauled in 56 passes for 890 yards and 11 touchdowns last year in earning first-team All-AVCTL Division I honors. Fellow senior KJ Hampton is another top pass catching target for the Eagles and displays versatility, frequently moving from the slot to the backfield where he is an excellent lead blocker. Senior back Caden Cox was a spectacular complement in the running game a year ago and could take on a bigger role in the offense this season. Cox displayed a combination of speed and power last year and a video of him hurdling a Salina Central defender even went viral. The 1,000 yard rusher showed off 4.5 speed at multiple camps and combines this

summer and reported receiving a scholarship offer from KU after attending a camp in June. The line returns only one starter, junior Nate Harding, and lost All-5A selection Nic Devore who is now playing at Fort Hays State. Maize shut out its first four oppponents a year ago and finished with five overall, allowing just 14.4 points per game on the season. Standout end Noah Stanton, an All-5A pick who is now also at FHSU, has graduated, along with lienbacker Carson Shively and defensive back Tanner Ohnmeis. But five starters are back led by defensive lineman Kyle Haas, an elite wrestler who had 106 tackles last year, including 24 for loss. The Eagles don’t have much depth on the offensive and defensive lines overall, but if that unit can perform, and veteran coach Gary Guzman can find an adequate replacement for Grill, Maize has the pieces to produce another team capable of making a run in Class 5A. The schedule appears manageable early, giving the new faces time to adapt, but a week five matchup with rival Goddard – one of 4A’s best – should provide a gauge for the rest of the season. 10-2 in 2018 / 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division I Coach: Gary Guzman (9th year, 46-33; 28th overall, 146-120) Assistants: James Hammett, Rob Helm, Rocky Helm, Victor Mercado, JJ Milanovich, Fred Rosas, Brett Soft Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Preven Christon, WR, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Caden Cox, RB, 5-10, 193, Sr.; KJ Hampton, Wr, 5-11, 186, Sr.; Nate Harding, OL, 6-2, 216, Jr.; Camden Jurgensen, WR, 5-10, 147, Sr.; Kyle Haas, DL, 6-1, 214, Jr.; Andrew Hanlin, DB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Kendall Norrod, LB, 5-11, 185, Jr.; Keaton Robertson, DL, 6-2, 208, Sr.; Carson Wheeler, LB, 5-8, 175, Sr. Brent Maycock

LIBERAL

Page 80

After a breakout 6-3 season in ’17, Liberal tumbled back to 1-8 last year. In 2017, Liberal had its first winning season since a 6-4 mark in ’05. In 2017 Liberal allowed just 18.1 points per game, easily its best scoring defense in the last decade. That season, Liberal went 2-1 in games decided by nine points or fewer. The Redskins had 539 passing yards, and a WAC-best 2,229 rushing yards while scoring 27.8 points per contest. Last year, Liberal scored 12.8 points per contest, permitted 24.7 and went 0-4 in Western Athletic Conference play. Liberal passed for 583 yards and rushed for just 1,502, according to WAC statistician/Hays High broadcaster Dustin Armbruster. The Redskins permitted 2,791 total yards last season after 2,372 in ’17. Liberal’s only win in 2018 was a 41-0 season opener versus Guymon, Okla. Since ’08, the Redskins are 11-0 versus Guymon. This fall, Liberal returns standout Syris Dunlap. He rushed for 677 yards as a freshman. As a sophomore, he passed for 539 yards and rushed for a conference-best 1,137 yards. He accounted for 22 scores. Last year, Dunlap completed 51 of 107 passes (48 percent) for 567 yards with a 6/10 TD/INT ratio. He rushed for 596 yards. No returning Liberal receiver had at least 282 yards last season. Dunlap, though undersized, is one of the most athletic players in all of Kansas. At the Kansas Shrine Bowl Combine earlier this summer he ran a 4.44 40 yard dash and he reports a vertical jump of 38 inches with a hang clean of 300 pounds and a squat of 450. Pancho Terazzas delivered 56 tackles, while Pablo Martinez had 50 stops, and Alex Yanez delivered 49. Braxton Hyde picked off four passes. Coach Jason Dunlap said goals and keys are “health and numbers,” and “Win game one, win our conference, make a deep playoff run.”

1-8 in 2018 / 5A / Western Athletic Conference Coach: Jason Dunlap (3rd year, 7-11) Assistants: Brandon Hyde, Garrett Walker, Trace Haskell, Robert Wilson, Tommy McClure, Rustin Watt, DeMorrius Jones, Nick Zimmerman, Andrew Potter Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 22 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 2 Defense Syris Dunlap, QB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Braxton Hyde, WR, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Hunter Hatcher, WR, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Lee Hatcher, HB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Malcolm 2-8 in 2018 / 5A / Eastern Kansas League Coach: Tom Radke (9th year, 46-24; 14th overall, Wiltshire, WR, 5-8, 150, Jr.; Israel Avalos, LT, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Aldo Avalos, LG, 5-11, 220, So.; Zeth 68-51) Assistants: Matt Joshi, Jason Denton, Mansell, C, 6-0, 260, Sr.; Serjio Chavez, RG, Larry Beashore, Jerome Tucker, Sam Bruning, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Santonio Turner, NT, 5-11, 220, Julian Cole, Jeff Adams, Derrick Pierce, Brian So.; Elijah McCarter, F/S, 5-7, 145, Sr. CN Gray, Justin Snell Offense: Pistol Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 18 Full Service Financial Institution Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Michael Tujague, RB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Jack Moellers, QB, 6-1, 205, Sr.; Cade Lautt, LB, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Xzavier Person, DE, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Robert Stark, LB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; J.J. Tylicki, TE, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Max Kalny, OL, 6-5, 285, Sr.; Beau Liberal • 21 Medical Dr • 620.624.8491 • gpcu.org Grable, CB, 5-8, 160, Sr. Gallagher Martin

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MAIZE SOUTH

The Mavericks began last season 0-3 with losses to Wichita Heights, Andover, and Valley Center — three teams that finished below .500. But starting with a 24-17 win over Ark City, the Mavericks won six in a row that included a four-point win over Andover in a revenge game in the first round of the 5A playoffs. South also squeezed past Andover Central, 21-20. The highlight of the season was a win over eventual 4A runner-up Goddard in double OT, 23-22. Maize South was 4-0 in games decided by a touchdown or less in 2018. The Mavericks were blanked, 35-0, by rival Maize in the playoffs. The Mavs return plenty of experience, including nine starters on D. They return five on offense, but will be replacing the majority of the offensive line. Head coach Brent Pfeifer knows there will be many young players fighting for starting spots this season. “There will be a lot of positions open for competition,” Pfeifer said. “Young players will be expected to put in time and be prepared to fill positions and provide strength and depth to our team.” On offense, senior Cody Fayette is the team’s only returning offensive linemen, but he’s one of the best in AVCTL. He will lead the way up front for running back Mason Edwards and pass protect for quarterback Colin Shields. Edwards was a second-team All-AVCTL Division II selection while Shields made honorable mention as just a sophomore. Defensively, first-team All-AVCTL DII corner Trevion Mitchell is one of four d-backs returning and 6-1, 300 pound second team pick Zach Saville is a terror up front and one of two defensive linemen back. The Mavs also return three linebackers from a defense that allowed 21.8 points per game last season. The Mavericks haven’t had a losing season since the program’s first year of varsity football in 2010, and while Pfeifer doesn’t expect that to change this year, his focus is on attitude and effort. “As long a we work unselfishly for our teammates and remain positive in our approach to practice, we can continue to be successful in building strong, respectable young men,” Pfeifer said. 6-4 in 2018 / 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II Coach: Brent Pfeifer (10th year, 70-31) Assistants: Tom O’Conner, Justin Burke, Rick Craig, Brent Randolph, Shane Harden, Layne Carter, Alan Collier, Ben Hamilton, Aaron Finck, Mitch Butterfield Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense, 9 Defense Cody Fayette, OL, 6-4, 280, Sr.; Mason Edwards, RB, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Braden Pfeifer, WR, 5-10, 155, Sr.; Colin Shields, QB, 6-1, 195, Jr.; Jake Johnson, WR, 6-1, 165, Jr.; Trevion Mitchell, DB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Zach Saville, DT, 6-1, 300, Sr.; Calvin Benefiel, DT, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Coleman Koehn, LB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Tysaac Noland, DB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Ryan Hays, DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Colby Hermann, LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Dominic Castelli, DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Brandon Bowles, LB, 6-1, 175, Jr. Gallagher Martin

NEWTON

Newton started the 2018 season on the right foot by beating perennial 4A power Buhler, 34-26, on the road. The Railers then dropped three straight, two of them to juggernauts Derby and Maize, before rebounding with a 42-35 win over Hutchinson. The Railers dropped three of their final four games with the lone win coming at Goddard-Eisenhower, although Newton did give Bishop Carroll all it could handle in the first round of the playoffs. After a 1-8 season in 2016, fourth-year head coach Chris Jaax has put together back to back 3-6 seasons which are the best records the program has had since Newton went 5-5 in 2013. The Railers have not had a winning record since going 7-3 in 2009, but Jaax is hoping the last two seasons are signs of progress. “The last two years we could have had a winning record if we had played complete games,” Jaax said. “This year’s seniors want to elevate the program to a winning season and see where that leads us.” Replacing All-State QB Colton Davis will be the biggest priority for Newton on offense. Davis was a capable passer, but an outstanding rusher, leading the team in both categories last year. The Railers return eight starters on offense from a unit that averaged a little over 22 points a game. Wide receiver Josh Edson garnered All-AVCTL Division I second team honors and will likely be the new starting quarterback. The Railers graduate two all-league o-linemen, but return four who saw starting action a year ago. The Newton defense returns five starters, including two d-linemen in Davis Mick and Jody Perry. Nick Antonowich will lead the LBs, while Henry Claassen and Kolyn Sauceda return from the secondary. While the Railers do return a good portion of starters, they lose a lot of productivity from last year. “We have a lot to replace from last year,” Jaax said. “Our overall numbers are low, we will probably have 20 to 40 less varsity players on the roster than almost every team on our schedule except for the Salina schools. But we have had our best overall percentage of participation in our summer program by far this year. Things are moving in the right direction.”

There wasn’t a scouting report on Olathe West entering last season because there wasn’t a team to scout. The program played its first year of varsity football in 2018 and the Olathe West Owls did not disappoint. After starting the season 0-4 and finishing the regular season 2-6, the Owls picked up wins over KC Washington, KC Schlage, and De Soto in the playoffs before falling to St. Thomas Aquinas in the Class 5A Semifinals. The Owls gained a lot of valuable experience and the deep run in the playoffs allowed the team extra weeks of practice. With nine returning starters on both sides of the ball, the Owls will be a dangerous team for the second straight season. “The playoff run provided four extra valuable weeks of practice that will help raise expectations for the 2019 season,” head coach TJ O’Neill said. The Owls must replace honorable mention AllSunflower League quarterback Zac Krause, but do return multiple weapons on offense. Running back Gavin McDaniel rushed for 1,100 yards in 10 games last season. At 5-6, 170, O’Neill describes McDaniel as a physical back who can also pass protect. The Owls also return a dynamic duo at wide receiver. Connor Delong had 800 receiving yards and eight touchdowns last year, while Caden Barnard had 600 receiving yards. Look for Barnard to touch the ball in the passing game, running game, and on special teams. On defense, safety Trey Krause led the team 116 tackles. O’Neill says Krause was responsible for aligning the defense before every snap. Linebacker Sam Butler began last year as a rotational player, but finished the season with 96 tackles. Defensive end Kobe Poindexter had a breakout sophomore season last year, finishing with 71 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and four sacks. After going 1-6 in the Sunflower League and finishing 10th out of 13 teams, the Owls could be one of the favorites entering 2019. “The Sunflower League consistently produces talented and high level teams every year,” O’Neill said. “The Owls will need their returning players to produce 3-6 in 2018 / 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division I significantly to have success on Friday night.” Coach: Chris Jaax (4th year, 7-20) Assistants: James Pfannestiel, Dylan Delk, Fred 5-7 in 2018 / 5A / Sunflower League Schmidt, Jon Adkins, Patrick Watson, Evan Gilbert, Coach: TJ O’Neill (2nd year, 5-7) Max Switzer, Cody Howell Assistants: Kraig Goerl, Greg Morgan, Mike Zegunis, Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Eric Kinney, Mike McLaughlin, Tyler Rodden, Sam Returning lettermen: 15 Palm, Dee Bell, RJ Nill, Evan Gray, Chris Fields Returning starters: 8 Offense, 5 Defense Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Nick Antonowich, LB, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Henry Claassen, Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense S, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Sam Claassen, C, 5-11, 205, Jr.; Connor Delong, WR, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Gavin McDaniel, Gavin Cusick, WR, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Josh Edson, WR, RB, 5-6, 170, Sr.; Luke Zegunis, G, 5-10, 215, Jr.; 6-1, 180, Sr.; Aiden Kendall, OL, 6-1, 260, Jr.; Mario Caden Barnard, WR, 5-7, 150, Sr.; Trey Krause, Martinez, OL, 6-1, 240, Sr.; Peyton Maxwell, WR, S, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Sam Butler, LB, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Kobe 6-0, 175, Jr.; Davis Mick, DL, 5-10, 240, Jr.; Jody Poindexter, DE, 6-1, 190, Jr. Jackson Novacek, WR, Perry, DL, 6-1, 200, Jr.; Boone Roberson, RB, 5-11, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Cole Turner, G, 5-10, 195, Jr.; Quinn 175, Sr.; Kolyn Sauceda, CB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Kaine Stambaugh, C, 5-9, 190, Sr.; Josh Clark, OT, 6-0, Taylor, OL, 6-2, 250, Sr. Gallagher Martin 250, Jr.; Dane Hutchins, OT, 6-1, 215, So.; Dawud Hakim, DB, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Jon Jenkins, DE/TE, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Wyatt Sharpe, DL, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Guy as a sophomore and enjoyed an All-State year with Hosford, DL, 5-11, 195, Sr., Mike Anderson, LB, 5-10, 2,075 yards and 26 touchdowns including 329 yards 175, So.; Nathan Rouse, DB, 5-9, 170, Sr. Gallagher Martin and four scores in the state championship game. Two offensive linemen also return, but the Saints must fill the spots around that core with a bunch of new faces. Defensively, senior corner Kordon Harris was a first-team All-5A pick last year and will anchor a secondary that also returns senior Terrence Collins. Senior Peyton Reeves – a recent verbal commit to FCS Southern Illinois – returns to the line, but the Saints will have to fill all the linebacker positions, though Danny Carroll and Bobby Pierce could step in and have big impacts. Aquinas’ new faces will get tested early and often as the Saints face its usual tough EKL schedule, starting with the opener against a Blue Valley team hungry for a turnaround after a 4-5 season.

OP-ST. THOMAS AQUINAS

A state title seemed imminent once Randy Dreiling was hired at St. Thomas Aquinas prior to the start of the 2014 season. After a pair of runner-up finishes in 2014 and 2017, the Saints finally reached the pinnacle in Dreiling’s fith year. Not only did the Saints captured the Class 5A state championship for the first title in program history, they ran the table, posting a perfect 12-0 record (with an open date in Week 8). Aquinas was dominant, outscoring its opponents 559-174 on the season. No game was decided by less than 11 points, they demolished 4A champion Miege 41-21 and the Saints rolled past Wichita Northwest 49-28 in the championship game. Many of the key pieces off that championship graduated, including two-time All-State Top 11 offensive lineman Joe Michalski (now at Oklahoma State), All-5A defensive lineman Javier Derritt (North Dakota State), All-5A linebacker Zach Goodeyon and standout defensive back Jayden Russell (Miami, Ohio). Compounding the graduation losses was the offseason transfer of two of Aquinas’ top returning players, linemen Michael and Jaeden Roberts. The talented brothers transferred to North Shore, Texas, leaving even more holes for Dreiling to fill. But don’t feel too bad for the Saints because there is still plenty of talent on hand to make a run at another title. Though only two full-time starters return on offense and four are back on defense, a total of 36 lettermen are back, most of whom got plenty of time in the Saints’ many blowouts last year. Aquinas’ boasts arguably the top tailback in the state as well in junior Tank Young. After posting moderate numbers as a freshman, Young blew up

OLATHE WEST

12-0 in 2018 / 5A / Eastern Kansas League Coach: Randy Dreiling (6th year, 49-13; 30th overall, 234-90) Assistants: Kevon McGrew, Sean Thompson, Dillen Jackle, Pat Lonergan, Nelson Young, Chad McKinnis, Ray Williams, Chris Johnson, Richard Davila, Justin Kerscher Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 36 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 4 Defense Dionte Brown, OL, 6-2, 270, Sr.; Christian Mozingo, OL, 6-4, 320, Sr.; Tank Young, RB, 5-7, 175, Jr.; Finn Barnett, SB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Peyton Reeves, DL, 6-2, 292, Sr.; Kordon Harris, CB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Terrence Collins, CB, 5-10, 180, Sr Brent Maycock

Page 81

OP-BLUE VALLEY SOUTHWEST

It wasn’t so much the overall 3-6 record that Blue Valley Southwest posted last year that was disappointing, but how the season came to an end. Facing one of the toughest schedules courtesy playing in arguably the toughest league in the state, Southwest was hoping the rigors of its Eastern Kansas League slate would pay off in the postseason. Instead, it was a short-lived playoff appearance. After going 2-5 in league play and 3-5 in the regular season, the Timberwolves saw their late-season offensive woes carry over into a 10-9 playoff loss to Shawnee Heights. Having scored 31 or more points in three of their first five games, the Timberwolves couldn’t reach double figures in their final four. Part of those troubles could be attributed to having to make a change at quarterback midway through the season. Sophomore starter Tanner Curry threw for 598 yards and seven touchdowns in four games, leading the Timberwolves to a 2-2 mark. But he went down in a 35-26 win over Blue Valley Northwest in Week Four and junior Logan Moore took over from there. Moore did throw for 586 yards, but only had one touchdown and was picked off seven times. Both will be back this season, giving fifth-year coach Anthony Orrick options at the position. The quarterback spot carried the bulk of the offensive load a year ago as the Timberwolves only ran for 986 yards as a team and with leading rusher Jake Lamfers having graduated, that could be the case again this year. Compounding matters on the offense is the loss of all five starting linemen, leaving Orrick with some big holes to fill. Southwest’s defense should be the team’s strength early with seven starters back on that side of the ball. Senior linebacker Ryan Rast led the team in tackles a year ago with 44 and seven of the team’s top-eight tacklers from a year ago are back as the Timberwolves look to improve after allowing 36 points per game last season. Southwest does have a legitimate weapon in senior kicker Dominik Stadlman, who made 7 of 8 field goals last year with a long of 53 yards. Getting a win in the opener against Lansing for the second straight year is key because the next two weeks are tall orders against defending 5A champion Aquinas and perennial 6A contender Blue Valley. 3-6 in 2018 / 5A / Eastern Kansas League Coach: Anthony Orrick (5th year, 11-26) Assistants: Brandon Hawks, Dustin Barnes, Justin Bartlett, Michael Moss, Curtis Myers, Ken Braden, Ki’anie Brooks, Rich Troxel, Collin Carter, Mike Pangborn Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 stack Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense Tanner Curry, QB, Jr.; Logan Moore, QB, Sr.; Tommy Zimmerman, TE/DE, Sr.; Austin Murrow, WR, Sr.; Drew Jennings, RB, Sr.; Bryce Reasoner, LB, Sr.; Yan Keuwo, CB, Sr.; Cal Kilgore, SS, Jr.; Ryan Rast, LB, Sr.; Kaleb Hunter, DL, Sr.; Koby Hinton, DL, Sr.; Dominik Stadlman, K/P, Sr. Brent Maycock

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SALINA-CENTRAL

Salina Central enjoyed a massive turnaround and was one of the biggest surprises of 2018 with new coach Mark Sandbo. The Mustangs entered the year on an 18-game losing streak and won its season opener, 44-7, against Goddard-Eisenhower. SC went 7-3 with losses at eventual 6A titlist Derby (63-0 in Week 2), at Maize (48-26) in Week 7, and at Bishop Carroll, 52-14, in the playoffs. All three teams finished 8-3 or better. SC missed standout running back Taylon Peters, a Washburn University signee and Kpreps first team all-state player, in the Carroll loss with injury. The game was tied at 14 with 3:57 late in the first quarter before BC tallied 38 straight points. Peters finished the season with 1,719 rushing yards and 20 scores, along with 347 yards and three TD. Peters was conference MVP. SC defensive back Ben Driver also earned first team all-state after he delivered 100 tackles with six interceptions, along with 392 receiving yards and 475 kick return yards. SC returns six starters on both sides, including quarterback Jackson Kavanagh, who completed 98 of 194 passes for 1,510 yards with an 18/9 TD/INT ratio. He also rushed 129 times for 362 yards and two scores. Former Concordia head coach Austin Kingsbury joined the staff as the defensive coordinator. SC scored 31.7 points per contest but permitted 25.7. Sandbo said a “major key to our success” will be identifying strengths “now” and “pleasant surprises” in the fall. Sandbo believes the lines – including an average of 6-foot-2, 260 pounds on the offensive side – will be strengths. Senior TE/HB/DE Quinton Stewart is one of the top prospects in Kansas and has verbally committed to Oklahoma State. “Adding to that, having a returning signal caller and an experienced back end of our defense we feel bodes well for us,” Sandbo said. “Utilizing some players that we feel can have an influence on either side of the ball will be important for us, too. We will need to be smart on when and where these pieces to our puzzle are used, but feel these guys are impactful enough to warrant being on both sides of the ball at times.” 7-3 in 2018 / 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division I Coach: Mark Sandbo (2nd year, 7-3) Assistants: Tony Chesney, Rick O’Neill, Brian Kavanagh, Derryl Hill, Austin Kingsbury, Eric Clayton, Richard Brake, Herm Dominguez, Adam Schneck Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Gage Prester, DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Dakota Hogan, DB, 5-7, 170, Jr.; Quinton Stewart, TE/DL, 6-4, 238, Sr.; Cooper Chard, DB, 5-10, 173, Sr.; Logan Heigele, WR, 5-10, 155, Sr.; Israel Torres, LB, 6-1, 222, Sr.; Kray True, DB, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Talus Price, DL, 5-11, 230, Sr.; Jackson Kavanagh, QB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Jake Eisenhauer, OL, 6-1, 260, Jr.; Evan Bishop, OL, 5-11, 228, Sr.; Houston Griffitts, OL, 6-0, 256, Sr. CN

SALINA-SOUTH

Salina South is 5-5, 1-8, 3-7 and 1-8 in the last four years. Last year, South played the No. 1-hardest schedule in Class 5A for the third consecutive season, according to Prep Power Index. South lost key players Jayden Miller and Kyle Quill for significant parts of the season; Quill was hurt on the season’s first play. In five of the eight losses, SS was within a touchdown in the fourth quarter and was down by 14 in another loss. By season’s end, coach Sam Sellers said the Cougars were playing seven sophomores and two freshmen “a horrible formula for the schedule we play.” Quill signed with Ottawa, and defensive end Isaac Mitchell inked with Yale. Defensive back Cai Calvert graduated after he started multiple years. SS averaged 12.4 ppg and permitted 31.5. Junior QB Terran Galloway returns after he completed 96 of 188 passes for 1,144 yards with a 6/7 TD/INT ratio. Quill, who played in seven games, led with 203 rushing yards. Senior Ty Garrett is back after 50 catches for 647 yards and a TD. He tied the single season school record for receptions, was all-league and has FCS/DII interest. In his career, Garrett has 88 catches for 1,137 yards and four TDs. South returns four o-linemen with at least five starts, the top-six wide receivers and sophomore running back Brandt Cox, who started eight games last year and can run 10.95 seconds in the 100. Sellers believes the “offense should, and must dramatically” improve. Junior Collin Schreiber, a standout basketball player, will add to the receiver group. “The positive of being so young last year is a lot of kids are back with a substantial amount of playing time, though total numbers will still be a problem for another two years,” Sellers said. Sellers believes the secondary will be the strength with three returning starters, including junior A.J. Johnson, second team all-league both years. A major concern is line depth on both sides. Sophomore Kayson Dietz started at nose guard last year and will probably move to d-end this year. Cox and Dietz have already earned FBS attention. 1-8 in 2018 / 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division I Coach: Sam Sellers (10th year, 52-50) Assistants: Gary Seibel, Justin Ebert, Kanean Wendell, Chris Barkley, Daniel Colton, Tyler Smith, Ernest Ballenger, Justin Stonebraker, Charlie Lynn Offense: Pro Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 22 Returning starters: 10 Offense, 5 Defense Ty Garrett, WR, 6-3, 225, Sr.; Terran Galloway, QB, 5-11, 168, Jr.; Brandt Cox, RB, 6-1, 195, So.; Ethan Sankey, OL, 6-2, 241, Sr.; Zach Isaacson, OL, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Gio McCall, OL, 5-10, 236, Jr.; Chris Williams, OL, 5-10, 260, Jr.; David Ollenberger, WR, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Jace Varela, WR, 5-7, 136, Sr.; Caleb Copeland, WR, 5-9, 158, Sr.; A.J. Johnson, DB, 6-2, 177, Jr.; Colby Bulleigh, DB, 5-11, 179, Sr.; Kayson Dietz, DL, 5-11, 280, So.; Kamren Xaysongkham, LB, 5-10, 174, Sr.; Owen Bulleigh, DB, 5-10, 165, Jr. CN

Of Mill Valley’s four losses, two came to 5A state champion St. Thomas Aquinas, one to 4A state champion Bishop Miege, and the other to 6A state runner-up Blue Valley North. The Jaguars are just two years removed from back-to-back 5A championships, and despite the loss of a large senior class, the talent is still there to compete week in and week out in the EKL. “Our program is about improving daily, not only on the field, but off the field,” Applebee said. With running back Tyler Green and four offensive linemen returning, the Jaguars should have an offensive identity. Green had a breakout junior year in which he rushed for 695 yards on only 134 carries, along with 10 total touchdowns. Senior Kyle Kelly and juniors Ethan Kremer, Sam Hecht, and Robbie Dervin will all pave the way for Green while also providing pass protection to firstyear starting quarterback Cooper Marsh. “We are very excited about both of our fronts this year,” Applebee said. “We expect Tyler Green to have a big year. We also are excited to see what Cooper Marsh can do at the quarterback position.” Developing skill position players will be Mill Valley’s biggest need on offense, especially at receiver where the Jaguars lost five to graduation. The Jaguars only return three starters on defense, but the unit will not be as depleted as it sounds. Kremer had a sensational sophomore season as a defensive lineman, recording 48 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and three sacks. Senior Justin Sanders had 2.5 sacks and will assist Kremer on the d-line. Senior Carson Caldwell is ready to lead the linebackers. Caldwell had 37 tackles and a fumble recovery for a touchdown last year while playing behind Chase Shryock and Sage Sieperda, who are playing at Baker and Emporia State respectively. The secondary will be led by two seniors — Grant Frost and Jack McGuire. The Jaguars will be counting on new faces to step up, but the standard remains the same at Mill Valley High School. “As we all know, we need to win up front to compete for championships, and we expect both of our offensive and defensive fronts to lead the way this year,” Applebee said. 7-4 in 2018 / 5A / Eastern Kansas League Coach: Joel Applebee (10th year, 71-29) Assistants: Drew Hudgins, Kurt Bangle, Josh Barnes, Aaron Cox, TJ Finan, Nick Foster, Terrale Johnson, Zach McFall, Ian Nichols, Greg Oder, Geoff White Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 44 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 3 Defense Carson Caldwell, LB, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Tyler Green, RB, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Ethan Kremer, OL/DL, 6-1, 255, Jr.; Sam Hecht, OL, 6-5, 255, Jr.; Kyle Kelly, OL, 6-6, 255, Sr.; Robbie Derin, OL, 6-2, 265, Jr.; Justin Sanders, DL, 5-10, 295, Sr. Gallagher Martin

Page 83

TECUMSEH-SHAWNEE HEIGHTS

Shawnee Heights held tough in a formidable United Kansas Conference last season, but at 5-5 the Thunderbirds were never able to establish any consistency in the win column. And while Heights’ season ended with a 38-17 loss to De Soto in the second round of the playoffs, the climax of the season happened the week prior when the Thunderbirds eked out a 10-9 win over Blue Valley Southwest in the Class 5A playoffs. Shawnee Heights head coach Jason Swift is hoping that win will propel his team into next season. “Our off-season has been a success due to a big win versus Blue Valley Southwest,” Swift said. “Each week we got better as a team, and hopefully it will carry over to this season because we will have experience on both sides of the ball.” In addition to returning six players on offense and five on defense, the T-Birds return kicker Manny Salamanca, who nailed a go-ahead 39-yard field goal in the fourth quarter to beat Blue Valley Southwest. The Shawnee Heights offense starts with junior quarterback Hunter Wohler, who led the team with 12 rushing touchdowns. With Davion Gardenhire in the backfield, the duo form a solid one-two punch in the rushing game. Wohler hasn’t established himself as a passer yet — he completed 45 percent of his passes and had three touchdowns to four interceptions — which may open the door for quarterback Chase Carson, who Swift said will compete for the job. The questions at quarterback do not bode well with a receiving corps that has no experience outside of Brayden Zirkle’s one catch for 26 yards. Shawnee Heights does return two starting receivers, however. “Offensively, we return great multiple sport athletes that have had great seasons in other sports,” Swift said. Reid Holthaus earned All-UKC second team honors as both an offensive lineman and a defensive end. Holthaus will be looked upon for consistency and leadership on both sides of the ball. Additionally, Chase Eklund and Timirance Adams, who combined for 116 tackles, are back to solidify the defense. “Defensively, we will be solid tacklers and be able to defend sidelines to sidelines,” Swift said. The T-Birds will be challenged early in the season, including Topeka High in the season opener and Basehor-Linwood in week four. 5-5 in 2018 / 5A / United Kansas Conference Coach: Jason Swift (17th year, 77-86) Assistants: Brad Nicks, Michael Werner, William Skaggs III, Curtis Hamilton, DeJuan Gardenhire, Steven Block, Matt Dunkin, Braden Werner Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Reid Holthaus, OL/DE, 6-5, 240, Sr.; Jayson Zuperku, C, 5-10, 245, Sr.; Davion Gardenhire, RB, 5-10, 162, Sr.; Timarance Adams, LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Chase Eklund, LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Ray Mendoza, DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Ricky Hines, DT, 6-3, 265, Sr.; Kale Stahl, OL, 5-11, 210, Sr.; Jalen Florence, OLB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Hunter Wohler, QB, 5-10, 165, Jr. Gallagher Martin

TOPEKA-HIGHLAND PARK

New coach, same result. Mike Foristiere replaced Faron Kraft as head coach at Highland Park in 2018 after Kraft left for Republic County High School in Belleville following three straight winless seasons. The veteran coach hoped to gain a little traction with the program, bringing in more than 35 years of coaching experience. Instead, the Scots finished with a winless record for the fourth straight season and take a 43-game losing streak into Foristiere’s second year. Highland Park came agonizingly close to ending the streak in Week 2 last year, falling 36-34 to Kansas City-Sumner. That was the only game in which the Scots managed more than two touchdowns and the only other contest where they scored more than eight points was in a 69-14 playoff loss to eventual Class 5A state champion Aquinas. Highland Park was shut out five times and scored just 10 points in the other two games - a

56-8 Week One loss to Seaman and a 56-2 Week Four loss to Topeka West. The Scots were outscored 511-58 for the season. Early games with Sumner and West will again provide the best opportunities to end the losing streak before a stretch of tough games against Centennial League foes Junction City, Emporia, Washburn Rural and Manhattan will close out the regular season. 0-9 in 2018 / 5A / Centennial League Coach: Mike Foristiere (2nd year, 0-9) Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Offense, N/A Defense Brent Maycock

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

TOPEKA-SEAMAN

Battling injuries for much of the season, Seaman showed flashes of being capable of making a strong postseason run in Class 5A. The Vikings shut out rival Hayden 13-0 in the Week Two and edged a solid Junction City team 21-20 late in the year. But a three-game skid in the middle of the schedule put the Vikings in a tough position for the playoffs and in the second round they faced No. 1 Aquinas, which rolled to a 56-14 victory on its way to the 5A title. The 5-5 season was one win more than the Vikings posted in 2017 in Glen O’Neil’s second with the program. Now entering his fourth year, O’Neil would like to build back toward the 8-3 mark the Vikings posted in his first season. Though graduation claimed a strong senior class, including All-Class 5A linebacker Sam Payne, Seaman does return quite a bit of experience, much of it gained in the fire a year ago when the injuries hit. Five starters are back on offense and six on defense. The strength of the offense will be up front despite the loss of two-way standout Jared Kerr. Three starters return in guard Jacob Haid, tackle Ewan Mills and tight end Dratyon Foster, with Foster a first-team All-Centennial League selection a year ago. The backfield, however, will have a different look with Brayden Vawter stepping in at quarterback full time this season, replacing leading rusher and passer Kobe Jones. A handful of skill players who saw time last year will fill in around Vawter, but none put up significant stats a year ago. Defensively, Payne will be missed greatly. He made 114 tackles a year ago and was a first-team all-league selection. Vawter, Cole Askew and Mason Price will man the linebacking corps behind a line that returns Foster and Mills at the end spots and Blaine Powell at a tackle position. 5-5 in 2018 / 5A / Centennial League Coach: Glen O’Neil (4th year, 17-13) Assistants: Mike Lincoln, Travis Brown, Scott Peterson, Dawson Elliott, Tim Hebert, Rick Rineberg, Michael Ragsdale, Daniel Ruda, TJ Lorson Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Brayden Vawter, QB/LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Drayton Foster, TE/DE, 6-4, 210, Sr.; Ewan Mills, OT/DE, 6-2, 255, Jr.; Jacob Haid, OG, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Blaine Powell, DT, 5-9, 215, SR.; Caeden Meredith, WB/ FS, 5-8, 165, Jr.; Cole Askew, WB/OLB, 5-8, 165, Jr.; Christian Beauchamp, FB, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Alec Boyd, K, 5-9, 190, Sr.; Mason Price, ILB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Trneton Penry, FB, 5-10, 200, Jr. Brent Maycock

VALLEY CENTER

Scott L’Ecuyer’s first season at Valley Center featured a strong start, but a disappointing ending. Valley Center began the year 2-1, with impressive double-digit wins over Garden City and Maize South. The Hornets then lost five of their final six games with their only win coming against Andover, 13-10. Valley Center has its work cut out this season. The Hornets return just three starters on offense and four on defense. But L’Ecuyer doesn’t seem worried. “Though inexperienced, this group proved gritty and cohesive on the sub-varsity level last season and in the weight room this offseason,” L’Ecuyer said. On offense, linemen Jerod Payne and Austin Coash will look to pave the way up front. Payne, at 6-2, 290, was named a second-team All-AVCTL II offensive lineman in 2017 and 2018. Amado Carillo returns at receiver after catching 24 passes for 169 yards and a score, but is the only skill position player returning for the Hornets this season. Replacing QB Parker Schrater, running back Larry Wilson, and receiver Zach Williams will be key. Look for junior Kaleb Harden to take over at quarterback and junior Marion Ponds to start at running back. The Hornets return solid production on defense despite replacing seven starters. Defensive back Hunter Sharp had 71 tackles and two fumble recoveries last year. Linebacker Ethan Mullen will also be a key defender after recording 32 tackles. On the defensive line, Tony Caldwell and Garrett Craft will lead the way. Craft had 39 tackles and 1.5 sacks while Caldwell was named honorable mention AVCTL DII after recording 37 tackles. While most of his players are unproven, L’Ecuyer is ready to see what the next generation of Hornets is capable of. “Next man up at Valley Center,” L’Ecuyer said. “There is not much to say at this point because for many of our guys the story is yet to be written.”

The 2018 Bishop Carroll football season began with a heartbreaking loss to Wichita Northwest and ended with a wild loss to Wichita Northwest. The season also included a loss to eventual 6A state champions Derby, and a six-game winning streak that included a 28-14 win over arch-rival Kapaun Mt. Carmel. However, the Eagles could not get over the Northwest hump last season. Even scoring 67 points in the 5A Quarterfinals was not enough to take down the eventual state runner-up squad. Bishop Carroll graduates 25 seniors from last year, but that won’t be a problem for one of the most consistently successful programs in the state. Bishop Carroll has finished with a winning record each of the last 23 years and made the playoffs the last 16. Despite concerns on defense and at skill positions on offense, Bishop Carroll will be competitive against its tough schedule. “The major concern going into the 2019 football season is the lack of experience returning on defense and at many of the skill positions on offense,” thirdyear head coach Dusty Trail said. “The other concern is developing depth at all positions. We have a lot of talent, but it is unproven talent to this point.” The Eagles return seven starters on offense, including four offensive linemen. Ethan McMillian anchors the line after earning first team All-Greater Wichita Athletic League honors last year. The quarterback position will come down to senior John Honas and junior Aiden Niedens. Honas started two games for Bishop Carroll last year before a season-ending injury. “Both young men have been working hard in the off-season to improve their game and leadership ability,” Trail said. The Eagles return just four starters on defense. Senior defensive backs Justin Powell and Dalton Nichols are two of the best in Wichita. The Eagles also return a pair of senior defensive ends in Phoenix 3-6 in 2018 / 5A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II Smith and Joseph Korte. Coach: Scott L’Ecuyer (2nd year, 3-6) Developing linebackers will be a key for the Bishop Assistants: Kelly Cordova, Blake Pearson, Joey Carroll defense. Craig, Jared Ensey, Evan Hamm, John Johnson, “Many unproven, but athletic players will be Trent Preheim, Chad Wilmott competing for starting spots all across the defense,” Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Trail said. Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense 8-3 in 2018 / 5A / Greater Wichita Athletic League Amado Carillo, WR, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Austin Coash, Coach: Dusty Trail (3rd year, 20-5) OL, 5-10, 250, Jr.; Jerod Payne, OL, 6-2, 290, Sr.; Assistants: Jim Nance, Josh Mans, Jimmy Allen, Matt Tony Caldwell, DL, 5-10, 280, Sr.; Garrett Craft, DL, Bye, Brad Carey, Phil Blanton, Aaron Havlovic, Joe 6-0, 230, Jr.; Ethan Mullen, LB, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Hunter Frangenberg, Mike Gann, Michael Laubhan, Dave Sharp, DB, 5-8, 160, Jr. Gallagher Martin Armagost, Steve Harshberger, Trent Arion, Julio Aguado Verto, Tyler Skilling, Michael Laubhan Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 21 The Chargers do return leading rusher Clifton Returning starters: 7 Offense, 4 Defense Holloman, who could move to QB and give the Chargers a dual-threat. But he’ll need help in giving Ethan McMillian, OL, 6-3, 240, Sr.; Max Bullinger, TE/WR, 6-3, 200, Sr.; Matthew Bachman, OL, 5-11, the offense a jolt after the Chargers averaged 220, Sr.; John Honas, QB/RB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Aiden just 16.8 points per game and scored 20 or more Niedens, QB, 6-0, 165, Jr.; Ben Purvis, OL, 6-0, 240, just three times. The defense gave up 432 points, Jr.; Gabe Havlovic, OL, 6-4, 245, Jr.; Justin Powell, allowing less than 47 just once. DB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Dalton Nichols, DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Phoenix Smith, DE, 6-4, 215, Sr.; Joseph Korte, DE, 1-8 in 2018 / 5A / Centennial League 6-2, 205, Sr. Gallagher Martin Coach: Ryan Kelly (3rd year, 2-16) Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A There aren’t too many teams in Kansas that are Returning starters: N/A Offense, N/A Defense BM equipped to handle the graduation of two Big 12 football prospects, but Wichita Northwest won’t be calling 2019 a rebuilding year. Valentas was an All-5A selection at defensive Despite the losses of defensive end Marcus Hicks back and keyed a defense that was the Crusaders’ and running back Breece Hall to Oklahoma and strength last year, giving up 17.8 points per game. Iowa State respectively, Northwest still returns seven Senior DB Jairus Kennedy is a three-year starter and starters on offense and five on defense from a 12-win senior LB Charlie Frisch also brings experience. team that fell one win shy of the program’s first state After graduating a large senior class last year, the championship. Crusaders will be short on seniors this year. Instead, The Grizzlies should still put up video game numAdelhardt will rely on a big and talented junior class bers on offense thanks to senior quarterback Reagan to keep things going. Jones, who has multiple FCS offers. Kapaun has only had three losing seasons under Jones has a big arm and 4.4 speed. Not only did he Adelhardt, the last blip coming in 2016 when the pass for over 2,800 yards last year, he added 1,500 Crusaders went just 2-7. on the ground. Perhaps most impressively, Jones balanced 31 touchdowns with only four interceptions. 7-3 in 2018 / 5A / Greater Wichita Athletic League While Northwest may not average 579.8 yards or Coach: Dan Adelhardt (15th year, 79-57) 55 points per game, the offense will still be lethal Assistants: David Roberts, Tyler Cahn, Ryan thanks to Jones. Burr, Trent Hungate, Brad Spicer, Kyle Stevens, “His leadership on offense will be key as he will be Darral Garner, Craig Schmidt, Pat Gimino, Michael breaking in new starters in the backfield,” head coach Reynolds Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-5 Steve Martin said. Returning lettermen: N/A Three returning offensive lineman, led by All-State Returning starters: 2 Offense, 4 Defense selection Javon Wheeler, will ensure Jones’ pocket Hunter Shonka, RB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Tiger Jones, WR, stays clean. The offensive line will also be asked to 6-1, 175, Jr.; Jairus Kennedy, DB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; help produce another 1,000-yard rusher at Northwest Charlie Frisch, LB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Doug Bates, DL, which would be Martin’s eighth in eight years. 5-10, 210, Jr.; Cale Curtis, DB, 5-9, 170, Jr. Between Hall and Roy Johnson, Northwest rushed Brent Maycock for over 3,400 yards last year. Running back has

TOPEKA-WEST

If the 2018 season had a feeling of deja-vu for Topeka West, well, there’s good reason. For the third straight year, the Chargers went 1-8. For the third straight year, the lone win came against Highland Park, a 56-2 victory midway through the season. Ryan Kelly enters his third season trying to get a little footing for the Chargers, who haven’t posted a winning season since 2005. To do so, he’ll have to replace a bulk of last year’s offensive production. Senior quarterback Hunter McDaniel nearly had his second straight 1,000-yard season, coming up just short. Receiver Brian Wright, who was a first-team All-Centennial League selection and the leading receiver in Topeka, is also gone.

WICHITA-KAPAUN MT. CARMEL

Kapaun has been the model of consistency during Dan Adelhardt’s tenure. In his 14 years, the Crusaders have posted six or more wins 10 times. Last year’s 7-3 mark was the latest of those successful seasons, though the Crusaders would have loved to finish a deeper run in the playoffs. Posting wins over St. James Academy and Wichita Heights going into the postseason, the Crusaders fought off a tough battle from Hays with a 48-28 win before ending the season with a 31-7 loss to Great Bend. The only other losses came to perennial powers Wichita Northwest and Carroll in back-to-back weeks following a 4-0 start that saw Kapaun outscore those opponents 96-29 and post a pair of shutouts. A strong senior class will be missed as Kapaun only returns a handful of starters. The most glaring holes will be up front on both sides of the ball with junior d-lineman Doug Bates the only returner among the nine combined offensive and defensive positions. Those losses might be easier to handle if Kapaun returned a cornerstone piece to an offense that averaged 24.9 points per game. But the only returning starters offensively are senior back Hunter Shonka and junior end Tiger Jones, who served as complements to departed playmaker Scott Valentas and quarterback Jack Hacking.

WICHITA-BISHOP CARROLL

WICHITA-HEIGHTS

Page 84

In his second season as head coach at Wichita Heights, Dominick Dingle’s most important task is finding a replacement for quarterback K’Vonte Baker. Baker graduated last year as the program’s all-time leading rusher. Additionally, the Falcons return just three starters on offense and five on defense from a team that went 4-5 last season. Heights ended last season on a three-game losing streak to Wichita Northwest, Kapaun and Emporia in the first round of the 5A playoffs. For the Falcons to make more noise in the playoffs this season, replacing eight starters on offense will be the key. The cabinet is not completely empty on the offensive side of the ball. Junior running back Josh Sanders is coming off a big sophomore season last year in which he rushed for 925 yards and nine touchdowns. Dingle also expects junior running back Jaylin Hanks to have a breakout year after rushing for 101 yards and a score last year. Look for Dylan Depperschmidt to step into Baker’s place at quarterback. Last season, Depperschmidt rushed 20 times for 103 yards. He also threw the ball three times, completing two of them, for 57 yards. The Falcons will be thin on the offensive line and must replace four starters. Senior lineman Chance Eastlick will provide much needed leadership on both the offensive line and the offense in general. Defensively, three of Heights’ five returning starters are in the secondary, led by senior defensive back Delazis Smith. Senior defensive lineman Caylen Lowery will also be asked to provide leadership for the youthful Falcons. Junior Ja-ron Tolefree is the team’s returning leading tackler with 53 stops last season. “The Falcons played a lot of players on a defense during the 2018 season that gained valuable experience,” Dingle said. “The continual improvement of all returning players that have varsity playing experience is critical to the team’s success.” Dingle is hoping to see progress in year two. “Players and coaches hope to make huge strides in year two’s implementation of new offensive and defensive schemes,” Dingle said. 4-5 in 2018 / 5A / Greater Wichita Athletic League Coach: Dominick Dingle (2nd year, 4-5) Assistants: Malik Jaradat, Brynn Pankratz, Dillon Ward, Jeremy Moss, Jarron Ogles, Todd Sacquitne, Rajiv Foster Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 3 Offense 5 Defense Jaylin Hanks, RB, Jr.; Josh Sanders, RB, Jr.; Chance Eastlick, OL, Sr.; Davion Ware, DB, Jr.; Delazis Smith, DB, Sr.; Jy’Vaughn Martin, DB, Jr.; Garrett Dempsey, LB, Jr.; Caylen Lowery, DL, Jr.; Kaden Classen, K, So. Gallagher Martin

WICHITA-NORTHWEST

been one of Martin’s most consistent position groups in his tenure, but there are question marks at running back this year. Northwest’s biggest weakness last year came on the defensive side of the ball. The Grizzlies gave up 67, 60, and 49 points in their last three playoff games, despite going 2-1 during that stretch. The Grizzlies will replace everyone on the d-line and standout linebacker Josh Carter, but four of the five returning defensive starters are in the secondary. “There is enough talent in the barn to get the job done,” Martin said, “but work ethic and chemistry will decide how far this team will go.” 12-1 in 2018 / 5A / Greater Wichita Athletic League Coach Steve Martin (8th year, 56-20) Assistants: Edmund Cronn, Marcus James, Michael Lopez, Marc Marinelli, Ike Onwugbufor, Buford Pringle, Jonathon Thompson, Zack Westhoff Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 5 Defense Javon Wheeler, OL, 5-10, 230, Sr.; Regan Jones, QB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Zion Jones, WR, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Tristen Reasoner, OL, 6-3, 255, Sr.; Jacob Amy, OL, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Nathan Carter, DL, 6-2, 235, So.; Darius Cooper, LB, 6-1, 245, Jr.; Malcolm Bell, DB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Jamar Martin, DB/RB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Jarod Givens, DB, 5-8, 165, Sr.; Wetu Kolomo, DB, 5-11, 165, Jr.; Jacob Younkman, LB, 5-11, 190, Jr. Gallagher Martin

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 85

Class 4A

1. Bishop Miege 2. Goddard 3. McPherson 4. Paola 5. Buhler Others: Basehor-Linwood, Louisburg, Pittsburg, Tonganoxie, Wellington By Brent Maycock, Topeka Capital-Journal A new-look Class 4A produced a very familiar result. Miege ruled Class 4A Division I in the four years the 4A classifcation was split into two divisions. Not only did the Stags win all four Division I crowns, but did so in dominating fashion by outscoring their title foes 210-75. With Class 4A no longer split, albeit reduced from 64 to 32 teams, very little changed. Miege had no equal at the 4A level, winning its five playoff games by a combined 29587. That included a 69-31 rout of Goddard in the championship game, capping an 11-2 season for the Stags — the lone losses coming to Missouri power Rockhurst (14-13) and 5A state champion Aquinas (41-21). There’s little to suggest anything will be different in 2019. Sure, Miege lost two-time All-State Top 11 linebacker Dylan Downing, standout offensive lineman Taylor Poitier and defensive lineman Jalen Williams, among others, to graduation. But Jon Holmes has the program rolling and returns more than enough talent to stay atop the class. Senior back Brison Cobbins ran for more than 1,300 yards and 23 touchdowns last year and is a four-year starter for the Stags. He’ll have a new complement in the backfield with Timothy Dorsey taking over at quarterback for the departed Sam Pedrotti, but Dorsey has two bigtime receivers in Daniel Jackson, a Minnesota commit who missed almost all of last season with an injury, and Phillippe Wesley. Even with Downing and Williams gone from the defense, seven starters are back led by linebacker Mikey Welsh and cornerback Rishi Rattan. The question in 4A is who can challenge Miege? Goddard was in a year of transition last year with a new head coach in Tommy Beason and new classification after dropping down from Class 5A. The Lions handled it well, losing only to Maize and Maize South in the regular season before its postseason run to the title game, which included a 15-14 upset of McPherson in the semifinals. The Lions lost some big-time players, including All-5A linebacker Kam’Ron Gonzalez and leading rusher Ben Bannister, but have plenty of weapons back for another deep run. Junior quarterback Kyler Semrad threw for 1,963 yards and 18 TDs last year and has two of his leading receivers back, while the defense is led by the dynamic 1-2 punch of lineman Zeke Howell and linebacker Dhimani Butler. McPherson will have to reload to stay in the thick of it

Photo by Mary Sanchez

Madden Rutherford

Photo by Kenny Daniel

Bryce Krone

Brison Cobbins

KANSAS PREGAME CLASS 4A PRESEASON RANKINGS

12 PLAYERS TO WATCH Photo courtesy Louisburg Sports Zone

Brison Cobbins [Bishop Miege] 5-7, 170, RB, Sr.; 1,300 yards, 23 TDs in 2018 Kade Funston [Abilene] 6-1, 255, OL, Sr.; All-NCKL Offense and Defense Jacob Fredricksen [Buhler] 6-0, 285, OL, Sr.; All-AVCTL III C.J. Horton [Fort Scott] 6-6, 200, WR, Sr.; HM All-SEK Zeke Howell [Goddard] 6-0, 220, DL, Sr.; 75 tackles, 21.5 TFLs, 18 sacks in 2018

after graduation claimed three skill players that accounted for virtually all of the team’s offensive production. Jace Kinnamon ran for 1,794 yards and 36 touchdowns, Kyler Hoppes threw for 2,648 yards and 36 TDs and All-4A receiver Gabe Hoover had 1,315 yards and 20 TDs. Defense – a long-time strength under McPherson coach Jace Pavlovich – may again have to be the Bullpups’ calling card early with six starters back on that side of the ball. Andover Central has a new coach as Derek Tuttle replaces longtime coach Tom Audley after serving as his assistant for years. The Jaguars were bounced early from the playoffs by Goddard last year, but have a playmaker in senior Xavier Bell, one of the top basketball players in the state. Louisburg gave Miege its closest game in the playoffs in a 55-21 loss, but will have to replace Shrine Bowlers Austin Moore and Kiefer Tucker. The Wildcats will have one of the top linemen in 4A in senior Brayden White and have a dual-threat quarterback in Madden Rutherford. Basehor-Linwood has done nothing but win during Rod Stallbaumer’s tenure and if not for Miege, could have a title or two. The Bobcats were 10-2 last year, falling to Miege in the state semifinals, but lost more than 90 percent of last year’s offensive production and standout lineman Jace

Here are 12 players to watch in Class 4A this fall:

Daniel Jackson [Bishop Miege] 5-11.5, 185, WR, Sr.: Minnesota Commit Bryce Krone [Bonner Springs] 6-1, 220, RB, Sr.; 1,700 all-purpose yards, 16 Tds in 2018 Branden Martin [KC Piper] 6-0, 175, Jr.; 159 tackles, 20 TFLs in 2018 Carter Morrow [Goddard] 6-4, 200, WR/TE/LB/DB, Sr.; South Dakota St. Offer Madden Rutherford [Louisburg] 6-4, 195, QB, Sr.; 1,100 yards passing, 15 TDs in 2018 Mason Thrash [McPherson] 6-1, 198, LB, Sr.; HM All-Class Brayden White [Louisburg] 6-5, 265, OL, Sr.; NW Missouri State Offer

Friesen, an All-4A pick and the Kpreps Get Busy Livin’ Player of the Year. Paola went 9-2 and is a perennial contender under Mike Dumpert. The Panthers should again be a factor come playoff time with nine players back with starting experience. Pittsburg also made the drop to 4A from 5A last year and went 8-2, but the Purple Dragons lost some of the state’s best players to graduation. Fort Scott was 7-3 last year, but saw Matt Campbell graduate and his father, long-time coach Bob Campbell, retire as head coach. The Tigers will be in a year of transition for first-year head coach Bo Graham, a longtime assistant under Campbell. Tonganoxie also went 7-3 last year and returns seven starters on offense and nine on defense, including standout lineman Cole Sample. The Chieftains could emerge as Miege’s top challenger in the east if they can replace workhorse running back Korbin Riedel and QB Hayden Robbins. Brent Maycock is a sports writer for the Topeka Capital-Journal and has covered high schools in Topeka, and across Kansas, for over 25 years.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

ALTAMONT-LABETTE COUNTY

1703 N. Buckey

Abilene

785-263-7777

Dine-in, Carryout & Delivery

ABILENE

Coming off a 2-7 season in 2017, Abilene was hoping to turn things around last year and get back to its winning ways. The Cowboys didn’t quite get there, but the 4-5 record they put together was a step in the right direction. Abilene knocked off perennial small class power Colgan after dropping three straight games early in the season. The Cowboys finished the regular season with a 26-21 win over Ulysses, but couldn’t handle the Tigers when they made a return trip to start the playoffs, falling 28-0 to end the season. Graduation claimed two first-team All-NCKL selections and three others who earned honorable mention honors, including two-way selection Preston Boyd and leading rusher James Mayden. The lone returning all-league performer for the Cowboys is senior lineman Kade Funston, who was a first-team pick both ways. Funston is one of the top linemen in Class 4A and is a four-year starter. He’s one of only two returning starting linemen and one of just six seniors on the team, leaving sixth-year coach Steve Simpson with a relatively young team to try to build off last year’s improvement. Fellow senior Jackson Randles returns at quarterback, but will have to improve on his production, racking up less than 1,000 total yards a year ago. A strong junior and sophomore class will be leaned on heavily, led by juniors Karson Loader and Caleb Burt, who were starters last year as sophomores. Burt will take on a much bigger role in the Cowboy backfield after starting defensively last year. Abilene only played three league games last year, going 1-2 with the lone win coming against Clay Center in the season opener. 4-5 in 2018 / 4A / North Central Kansas League Coach: Steve Simpson (6th year) Assistants: Brad Hartman, Corey Casteel, Darren Whaley, Todd Callahan, Joe Rose Offense: Multiple Spread/I-formation Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Kade Funston, OL/DL, 6-1, 255, Sr.; Jackson Randles, QB/DB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Chrisxavier Cease, WR/DB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Zach Juhl, TE/LB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Karson Loader, C/DL, 6-0, 200, Jr.; Caleb Burt, DB/RB, 6-0, 175, Jr. Brent Maycock

As the Labette County Grizzlies found out last year, losing three of your last four games earns you a matchup with Bishop Miege in the first round of the playoffs. After a 3-1 start to last year, the Grizzlies struggled down the stretch and ended the season with a 4-5 record. It is no secret the Grizzlies will have their hands full replacing Iowa State-signee Easton Dean. The 6-foot-7 dual-threat quarterback led the team through the air and on the ground last season. While replacing a legend like Dean will hardly be easy, the Grizzlies do welcome back 39 lettermen to make the transition smoother. At quarterback, senior Austin Jones is the only player on the roster who has attempted a pass at the varsity level; Jones went 4-for-6 for 88 yards and a touchdown last year. Not only do the Grizzlies lose Dean in the rushing game, they also lose their top two running backs from last season. Expect junior Chase Evans, who rushed for 89 yards on 30 carries, to see his workload increased exponentially. The Grizzlies graduated their top reciever, but do return three starters, including 6-foot-3 Nathan Smith who had 634 receiving yards and four touchdowns. Labette County will be young on the offensive line with two returners. Senior Evan Baima will be counted on for leadership. On defense, the Grizzlies return two of their top three tacklers. Ethan Jameson led the team with 60 tackles from his safety spot, while d-end Caleb Haggard led the team with 15.5 tackles for loss. Labette County only returns four starters on defense, with the defensive line and linebacker core especially young. Grizzlies head coach Sean Price is focused on taking the season one game at a time with his youthful team. “Go 1-0 each week is our goal for the season,” Price said. “Building depth and developing our young athletes will be our keys to success.”

cern. Head coach Jim Smith lists Christian Arnold, Garyon Simpson, Patrick Denton and Christian Bowen-Webb as possible starters. Arnold is the only one of the four who attempted a pass last year. Defensively, the Redmen return eight starters spread out all over the field. Athcison returns three defensive linemen, two linebackers, and three defensive backs. Junior Pat Denton had an all-league season at linebacker last year, while defensive back Garyon Simpson and Baker are the team’s leading returning tacklers with 45 and 44 tackles respectively. Atchison has a well-rounded team, but developing a quarterback might make or break the Redmen’s season. “The quarterback position will be the biggest question mark,” Smith said. “I look for our offensive line to be a strong group this season.”

Things did not come easy for Andover Central last year in their final season under Tom Audley, but their 5-5 record does not tell the whole story. Two of Andover Central’s five losses came to state runner-up Goddard by a combined 15 points. The Jaguars also lost a one-point game to Maize South and a seven-point game to Goddard-Eisenhower. On the flip side, all five of Andover Central’s wins came by 10 points or less. Overshadowing the bedlam of last season was the resignation of Audley. It was Audley who began as head coach when Central was founded in 2002. Now, for the first time ever, the Jaguars will have someone other than Audley leading the way. But the transition should be smooth. New coach Derek Tuttle has been an assistant under Audley for all 17 years. “We are blessed to have great support in our community, and the various people and groups involved have been very helpful,” Tuttle said. “I learned a ton about football and about continually seeking improvement from Coach Audley in my seasons under him, and he’s been helpful in this process too.” With 13 starters returning, Tuttle shouldn’t have to go into a rebuild in his first year. Replacing four offensive linemen will be the most prevalent issue, but the Jaguars are loaded at the skill positions. Xavier Bell is an impact player who can change the game anytime the ball is in his hands. Matthew Macy is another electric receiver who led the team with six touchdowns last year. Running backs Ty Herrmann and R.J. Bethea will fuel the ground game. The QB job is up in the air. Senior Shomari Parnell started six games at QB last season and threw six TD passes; junior Chase White started the other four. Defensively, the Jaguars will count on their athletic secondary to be a no-fly zone, while senior Trey DeGarmo is one of the best LBs in the area. Seven of the top 10 tacklers return.

ARKANSAS CITY

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No team wants to go 2-6 in the regular season, but that did not stop the Ark City Bulldogs from making the most of their situation. In the opening round of the 4A playoffs, the Bulldogs went on the road and upset Mulvane, 29-6, and continued as road-warriors with a victory over Coffeyville, 28-6. Ark City ended its season at 4-7 after a blowout loss at McPherson. Still, for a team that only mustered a pair of wins over Winfield and Valley Center during the regular season, a trip to the quarterfinals was not a bad finish. The Bulldogs are replacing a proficient passer and excellent athlete in QB Cevin Clark who threw for over 2,000 yards and rushed for 391. Ark City head coach Jon Wiemers says juniors Haden O’Toole and Owen Bucher might both take snaps for the Bulldogs this season. Both O’Toole (61, 165) and Bucher (5-10, 155) started as defensive backs for the Bulldogs last season. Ark City also graduated its leading rusher in running back Ike Abrams, but the Bulldogs might have a competent replacement in senior Braiden Mattocks. Mattocks only received eight carries last year after a season-ending injury knocked him out in Week 2. “He’s had a great offseason and runs tough with great vision,” Wiemers said. Tight end Jamauri Jordan (6-3, 220) made some big plays for the Bulldogs in their playoff run and is the team’s leading returning receiver after catching 11 passses, for 150 yards, and two TDs last year. Perhaps the strength of the offense will be the line, where the Bulldogs return four of five starters. “I feel like we have drastically improved from a year ago in our offensive line,” Wiemers said. Wiemers expects to lean on his defense as the offense develops and says defensive tackles Max Shannon (5-11, 245) and Taviahn Mack (6-1, 280) have the potential to be two of the best in the league. The Bulldogs also return four DBs, and senior LB Nicholas Bahm is back from injury. “He is a tremen5-5 in 2018 / 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II dous tackler and hard to block,” Wiemers said. Coach: Derek Tuttle (1st year) Assistants: Gary Merritt, Dean Taylor, Ben Page, 4-7 in 2018 / 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division II 4-5 in 2018 / 4A / Southeast Kansas League Ernie Hager, Aren Coppoc, Fred Sims, Brent Wilson Coach: Jon Wiemers (4th year, 15-16) Coach: Sean Price (5th year, 21-18) Offense: Multiple Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Assistants: Evan Burke, Eric Burrow, LK Giger, Adam Assistants: Bradley Argabright, Davie Brown, Mike Returning lettermen: 22 Dorsey, Justin Spencer, Anthony Whetstone, Matt Hayward, Joe Royer, Joe Paige, Ryan Woolard, Brett Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Koehn, Curt Massey Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 Thompson Offense: Air Raid Defense: Multiple Xavier Bell, WR/DB, 6-4, 174, Sr.; R.J. Bethea, FB/ Returning lettermen: N/A Returning lettermen: 39 DL, 5-10, 193, Sr.; Drew Daniels, OL, 6-2, 230, So.; Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Returning starters: 6 Offense 4 Defense Trey DeGarmo, OLB/TE, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Ty Herrmann, Braiden Mattocks, RB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Jamauri Jordan, Noah Yeoman, WR, 5-8, 145, So.; Nathan Smith, RB/S, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Nathan Leonard, LB, 5-10, TE, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Jarrett Brooks, OL, 6-0, 250, Jr.; WR, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Kainen Campmier, WR, 5-7, 150, 160, Sr.; Matthew Macy, WR, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Shomari Nate Kessinger, OL, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Zane Ranzau, OL, Sr.; Chase Evans, RB, 5-9, 180, Jr.; Mitchell House, Parnell, QB/DB, 6-2, 168, Sr.; Kyren Parrott, CB/ 5-10, 240, Sr.; Kaleb Oakley, OL, 6-1, 315, Sr.; Taylor OL, 5-10, 200, So.; Evan Baima, OL, 5-10, 175, KR/PR, 5-6, 160, Jr.; Jacob Rees, S/RB, 5-10, 190, Kilpatrick, WR, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Owen Bucher, DB, Sr.; Trent Brock, SS, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Brayden Lewis, Jr.; Blake Robison, K, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Brigdon Stupka, 5-10, 155, Jr.; Daigen Moulton, DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; LB, 5-8, 190, Sr.; Caleb Haggard, DE, 6-2, 240, Sr.; DL/OL, 6-4, 200, Sr.; Jacob Taylor, CB/WR/PR, 6-1, Haden O’Toole, DB, 6-1, 165, Jr.; Devon Watkins, Ethan Jameson, FS, 6-3, 160, Sr. Gallagher Martin 165, Sr.; Bridger Warrington, S, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Chase DB, 5-9, 180, Jr.; Nicholas Bahm, LB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; White, QB/DB, 5-11, 165, Jr.; Kaden Wilson, CB/WR, Taviahn Mack, DL, 6-1, 280, So.; Max Shannon, DL, 6-0, 170, Sr. Gallagher Martin 5-11, 245, Jr. Gallagher Martin

ATCHISON

Atchison will have one of the most experienced defenses in the Kansas City-Atchison League, but the Redmen will have questions to answer on offense if they want to compete for a league championship. The questions begin at the QB position where the Redmen are replacing Braydon Dame, who threw six TD passes last season and ran for six more. Dame was the leading passer and second-leading rusher behind Sercy Duncan, who rushed for 580 yards and nine TDs. Duncan also led the team with 314 receiving yards and three receiving scores. Both Dame and Duncan are gone to graduation which leaves a big hole in the Atchison offense. Atchison finished the league schedule with a 4-1 record and was a TD and extra point away from beating Schlagle and winning the league outright. Outside of league, Atchison went 0-4 last year against a tough schedule consisting of KC Piper, Basehor-Linwood, and Louisburg. Atchison went 0-3 against those teams and were outscored 132-42. Of Atchison’s five returning offensive starters, three are offensive linemen in seniors Heath Baker, Nick Funk and Brent Clary. Junior running back Xavier Cushinberry, who rushed for 298 yards and four touchdowns, will be running behind the big o-line. The Redmen have returning talent at the receiver and tight end positions, but quarterback is still a con-

ANDOVER CENTRAL

AUGUSTA

Consistency is exactly what head coach Jason Filbeck is looking for out of his team this year. “Our goals for this year are to play more consistently and bring a physical nature to offense and defense,” Filbeck said. The Orioles return much of their offense, but finding consistency at the quarterback position will be a priority. Last season, Jayden Wilson was the primary QB, but he completed just 36 percent of his passes for 339 yards, two TDs, and seven interceptions. Filbeck says Wilson may switch positions which would put the quarterback position up for grabs. Fullback Ryan Andrews led the team with 496 yards rushing and seven touchdowns last year as a sophomore — no other Oriole eclipsed 100 yards on the season. Augusta did not throw the ball a lot last season, but 6-3 wide receiver Justin Clausing, who led the team with 147 yards and a TD, is back. Augusta lost a bit more firepower on defense, but d-back Ely Wilcox had a nice sophomore year, 4-5 in 2018 / 4A / Kansas City-Atchison League recording 48 tackles, including six for loss. Senior Coach: Jim Smith (22nd year, 108-90) LB Lance Hussleman will also be counted on for Assistants: Charley Harris, Matt Hall, Josh Downing, production, coming off a 33 tackle season. Aaron Limon, Cheynne Swanson Offense: Spread Option Defense: 4-2-5 3-6 in 2018 / 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division III Returning lettermen: 18 Coach: Jason Filbeck (6th year, 26-22) Returning starters: 5 Offense, 8 Defense Assistants: JD Hand, Rick Neubauer, Nathan Towns, Heath Baker, OL/DL, 6-4, 250, Sr.; Nick Funk, OL/ Rhett Mallon, Chuck Bisbee DL, 6-1, 245, Sr.; Brent Clary, 6-4, 250, DL, Sr.; Elijah Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5 Haley, LB, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Garyon Simpson, DB, 5-11, Returning lettermen: 17 160, Sr.; Christian Arnold, DB/WR, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Returning starters: 9 Offense, 5 Defense Xavier Cushinberry, RB, 6-2, 220, Jr.; Pat Denton, Justin Clausing, WR, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Ryan Andrews, LB, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Xavier Hernandez, TE, 6-0, 185, FB, 6-0, 200, Jr.; Ely Wilcox, WR/DB, 6-4, 180, Jr.; Jr.; Dominque Herrig-Brittan, WR, 5-9, 155, So.; Gavin Payne, C, 5-10, 215, Sr.; Lance Hussleman, Divante Herrig-Brittan, DB, 5-9, 160, So. LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Tallon Martin, FS, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Gallagher Martin Duke Lichlyter, DB, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Tyler Kohls, K, 5-11, 175, Jr. Gallagher Martin

BALDWIN

After a one-year stint as head coach at TMPMarian, David Bowen heads east and takes over at Baldwin. The Bulldogs were coached the past two seasons by Doug Kerr, going 8-11. TMP was 3-6 under Bowen last year, but he hopes his background as an assistant coach at Oklahoma powerhouse Ada will translate into success at his third stop in Kansas (he also had a two-year stint at Stanton County). Six starters from last year return each way, but Bowen is still trying to figure out how the pieces will fit together. The sure thing he’s banking on is a big season from senior back Conner Quick, who was the Bulldogs’ leading rusher and passer last year. Quick will direct Bowen’s read-option offense after operating out of the single wing a year ago. Last year, Baldwin struggled offensively for much of the season. After scoring 35 points in a season-opening win over Ottawa, the Bulldogs only scored more than a touchdown in a game once more, a 28-6 win over Eudora. In the seven losses, Baldwin was outscored 260-33. The Frontier League slate once again will be a brutal one for Baldwin, which is the smallest school in the league and Class 4A. The Bulldogs again open with arch rival Ottawa, which went 0-9 last year and getting a win there will get Bowen’s tenure off on the right foot. 2-7 in 2018 / 4A / Frontier League Coach: David Bowen (1st year; 4th overall, 8-19) Assistants: Jeff Melcher, Paul Musselman, Jesse Austin Offense: Read Option Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Conner Quick, QB/RB, 6-0, 215, Sr. Brent Maycock

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

BASEHOR-LINWOOD

Basehor-Linwood coach Rod Stallbaumer is entering his sixth year as head coach of the Bobcats. In his five seasons, Basehor-Linwood has won their league three times, the former Kaw Valley League twice and last year’s inaugural season of the United Kansas Conference. If the Bobcats are to defend their league crown and win their fourth league championship since 2015, new faces will have to step up. Starting quarterback Dylan Mussett is gone, as is leading rusher Marlon McDaniel and leading receiver Dylan Donnelly. On defense, Kpreps.com Get Busy Livin’ Player of the Year Jace Friesen and his team-leading 80 tackles and 8.5 sacks are gone. It is of no surprise that this loaded senior class led Basehor-Linwood to 10 wins and the state semifinals in 4A last year. “The UKC teams all return a lot,” Stallbaumer said. “We will be replacing the most of any league teams, but we hope to be in the mix as well.” Basehor-Linwood returns just two starters on offense and four on defense, and Stallbaumer says some sophomores could see varsity action. Senior offensive lineman Cion Harris was All-UKC and All 4A Honorable Mention last year, and will be looked upon for leadership. Joining Harris on the o-line is senior Zach Smith, the only other Bobcat with starting experience on offense. Expect senior Chase Torkelson, along with several underclassmen, to compete for the QB job. On defense the Bobcats return two linemen and two linebackers. Brock Hofer had 65 tackles, including 11 for loss, from his linebacker position, while Josh Willcutt had 14 tackles for loss and three sacks last year as a defensive lineman. Linebacker Luke Jennings and lineman Mason Capper are also returning starters. The duo had 54 tackles and 14.5 TFLs combined last season. All four members of the secondary will need to be replaced. The Bobcats do have a dependable kicker in Nate Parkinson, who made 49 of 51 extra points. Stallbaumer believes 4A has depth this year and hopes his team will be in the mix. “One through 10 it looks to be the deepest 4A has been in several years with strong contenders on both the East and West sides of the state,” Stallbaumer said.

BONNER SPRINGS

Chad Eaddy has had two decent seasons at Bonner Springs, but 2019 could be the year the Braves break through. Bonner Springs went 5-5 in 2017 with a playoff win and a second-place league finish in Eaddy’s first season. Last year, the Braves went 4-5 with three of their five losses coming by six points or less. Bonner Springs began last season 1-3 before rattling off three straight wins over Ottawa, Baldwin, and Leavenworth. Back-to-back losses by Kansas City Piper ended the Braves season below .500. But the Braves have high expectations in 2019. Senior Bryce Krone is one of the top running backs in the state, and he is one of eight returning starters on offense and nine on defense for Bonner Springs. The Braves were not too far away from turning a 4-5 record into a 7-2 record. According to Eaddy, winning close games will be a priority for the Braves this season. “All of those games came down to the final minute of the game where myself, our staff, and our younger athletes did not make the extra plays to get the win,” Eaddy said. Krone, a 6-1, 220 pound bruising running back, is a national champion powerlifter and has five offers so far, including Northwest Missouri State. Last season, Krone had over 1,700 all-purpose yards and 16 TDs. He’s not the only stud on the offense. Junior Cortland Hervey is 6-6, 190 and runs a 4.52 40. However, as talented as the Braves are at skill positions, their biggest strength may be the offensive line where they return all five starters. Seniors Jacob Peterson and Micheal Sheldon are three-year starters, senior Ismeal Hernadez and junior Jadon Freese are two-year starters, and Antonio Caballero was all-league last year as a freshman. At quarterback, senior Johnny Tapia will get the nod after starting the final three games last year due to injury. Eaddy believes he has the talent and experience around him to make a run in the playoffs. “We believe if we can stay healthy this year and have some breaks fall our way, we will be in the hunt in November during the ‘second season,’” Eaddy said.

4-5 in 2018 / 4A / Frontier League Coach: Chad Eaddy (3rd year, 9-10) Assistants: David Blazevic, Demario Bennett, Justin Walker, Cameron Trowbridge, Prentice Watson Jr, Mike Ihejeto, Deron Dangerfield, Scott Campbell, Kyle Razak Offense: Spread Defense: Multiple 10-2 in 2018 / 4A / United Kansas Conference Returning lettermen: 21 Coach: Rod Stallbaumer (6th year, 41-14; 15th Returning starters: 8 Offense, 9 Defense overall, 107-42) Assistants: Brian Lohafer, Ron Bryce Krone, RB/LB, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Cortland Hervey, Barnes, Zach Livingston, Harrison Taylor, Connor WR, 6-6, 190, Jr.; Jacob Peterson, OL/DL, 6-0, 275, Thierolf, Brandon Duff, Justin Wieser, Dalton Inlow Sr.; Micheal Sheldon, OL/DL, 6-1, 255, Sr.; Jadon Offense: Spread Option Defense: 3-4 Freese, OL/DL, 6-1, 285, Jr.; Ismeal Hernadez, OL/ Returning lettermen: 15 LB, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Antonio Caballero, OL/DL, 6-2, Returning starters: 2 Offense, 4 Defense 290, So.; Johnny Tapia, QB, 5-10, 175, So.; Armani Washington, WR/CB, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Carter Wylie, 5-9, Cion Harris, OL, 5-9, 240, Sr.; Brock Hofer, LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Josh Willcutt, DL, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Luke 165, Jr.; Rashaud Dockery, WR/FS, 6-1, 155, Sr.; Carnelle Wehrhahn, TE/LB, Sr.; Brandon Sanders, Jennings, LB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Mason Capper, DL, TE/LB, 5-9, 193, Fr.; Jaden Robinson, RB/CB, 5-8, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Zach Smith, OL, 6-2, 240, Sr. Gallagher Martin Gallagher Martin 155, Jr.

COFFEYVILLE-FIELD KINDLEY

Coffeyville was 1-3 in games decided by 10 points or less last season. All five of Coffeyville’s losses were relatively competitive, with the largest loss coming in the 4A playoffs to Ark City, 28-6. Still, the Golden Tornado was able to break even with a 5-5 record, and even enjoyed a playoff win over El Dorado, 46-12. Coffeyville returns three starters on both sides of the ball and 10 lettermen. The Golden Tornado will be inexperienced and lack depth at certain positions, but don’t count out Coffeyville just yet. Coffeyville should be strong in the trenches which makes fourth-year head coach Darrin Wegner optimistic on both sides of the ball. “We are excited about our offensive and defensive lines which are bigger and stronger than in the past,” Wegner said. “We are hopeful about our chances of being a strong running team.” Jayden Crawford, a 6-2, 260 senior, will anchor both the offensive and defensive lines. Junior Brady White also returns on the offensive line, while junior Darrel Jones is listed as a returning starter at both center and wide receiver. Ethan Camp is the undisputed leader of the defense. Last season, he racked up 94 tackles, including five for loss, at linebacker. The Golden Tornado is replacing their best player in Jaylen Logan. Last season at quarterback,

Logan threw for 1,693 yards, 15 touchdowns, and completed 62 percent of his passes. Logan also rushed for 997 yards and another 15 touchdowns. That’s a lot of production to replace, and that falls on the shoulders of junior Aaron Rutherford. Rutherford does not have much experience at quarterback, but he did throw one touchdown last season. “Will be important for Aaron Rutherford to lead us offensively as he is replacing a great offensive player in Jaylen Logan,” Wegner said. “He needs to be efficient running our offense and just be solid while taking care of the ball.”

BUHLER

Buhler’s 5-5 record last year was its worst since going 2-8 in 2005, but don’t expect the Crusaders to fall any further than .500. Steve Warner has built a consistent winner at Buhler that includes a state championship in 2013 and runner-up finish in 2016. Buhler has won double digit games five times this decade, which makes last year’s season even harder to swallow for fans, players and coaches alike. With no returning starters last year, Buhler started from scratch and endured an up and down year. The Crusaders played Newton, Mulvane and Wellington within 10 points, but went 0-3 against them. But Buhler has much more experience this year, plus the arrival of two transfers who could make an immediate impact. Along with five returning starters on offense and defense, Buhler welcomes Nickerson transfer Jaron Kaufman and Valley Center transfer Myles Thompson. Kaufman has varsity experience playing running back and linebacker, while Thompson is a 6-5, 205 pound quarterback. If Kaufman and Thompson become starters, they will be playing behind an offensive line that returns Cole Ely and Jacob Fredrickson; Fredrickson was All-AVCTL DIII a year ago. Buhler also returns wide receivers Ian Stubbs and Briggam McCurdy, both of whom were second team all-league. On defense, the Crusaders will be well-equipped at linebacker and in the secondary, but will be breaking in a new defensive line. Stubbs, Hunter Carson, and Austin Gentry lead the way at linebacker, while Caleb Tiedke, Treyton Shepherd, and Cade Miller patrol the secondary. Outside of McPherson, the Crusaders were the best team in the AVCTL DIII, going 4-1. Buhler should be a factor in the league race once again this year, making its non conference schedule the determining factor in whether or not the Crusaders return to dominance in 2019. “Newton has several good players back for next year,” Warner said. “Winfield will be good. McPherson is going to be good, and that is a big game for us.” 5-5 in 2018 / 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division III Coach: Steve Warner (14th year, 120-34; 32nd overall, 237-95) Assistants: Jason Kohls, Kevin Ruda, Robby Gray, Garret Hotmar, John Neill, Willie Adkins, Mike Zeyen, Max Heinlein Offense: I-formation Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Cole Ely, OL, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Sam Cruz, RB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Caleb Tiedke, DB, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Treyton Shepherd, DB, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Cade Miller, DB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Ian Stubbs, LB/WR, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Hunter Carson, LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Briggam McCurdy, WR, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Austin Gentry, LB/FB, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Jacob Fredrickson, OL, 6-0, 285, Sr. Gallagher Martin

CHANUTE

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There isn’t anyone as excited as Clete Frazell to be the head football coach at Chanute High School. Frazell is entering his first year as head coach with 14 years of experience on the Chanute staff, most recently as the offensive coordinator. As a Chanute native, Frazell is thrilled to get a chance to lead his alma mater. “I am a hometown guy and there is no place I would rather be,” Frazell said. “These kids are blessed to have some top-notch assistant coaches and I will rely on them to help me through this first season.” With talent on both sides of the ball, Frazell is not worried about taking a step back in 2019. “Former head coach Chris Shields did a great job and left a program that was in good shape,” Frazell said, “and we will be looking to hit the ground running.” Six Blue Comets earned All-Southeast Kansas League honors, including all-state quarterback Ty Bowman. Chanute returns most of its starters from last year’s team that began the year 4-1 before losing four in a row. Injuries cost Chanute a chance at success last year, but the Blue Comets may be in store for a better year, if they can stay healthy. Jacob McDonald will lead an offensive line unit that returns seven members who saw playing time last year. Briley Peavey and Tyler Davis will need big years on both sides of the ball for Chanute to have success. Peavey was All-SEK as a defensive back while Davis was All-SEK as a linebacker, but both will share carries at running back. Chanute should be solid in special teams as well with Peavey, an all-league punter, and Jacob Adams, an all-league kicker. At 6-5, 210, QB Ty Bowman stands out and is often the best athlete on the field. Bowman will be looking to improve upon a season in which he threw for 16 touchdowns and ran for four more. Frazell is also excited about younger talent on the roster, which should make Chanute even more dangerous. “We have some really solid talent returning at key positions on both offense and defense and I think we can be a tough team in 2019,” Frazell said. 4-5 in 2018 / 4A / Southeast Kansas League Coach: Clete Frazell (1st year) Assistants: Rusty Emling, Luke Hall, Kurt Sizemore, Bradley Campbell Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: N/A Ty Bowman, QB, 6-5, 210, Sr.; Tyler Davis, RB/ LB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Briley Peavy, RB/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Jacob McDonald, OL/DL, 5-10, 275, Sr.; Collin Hutson, OL, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Jacob Adams, P/K, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Nolan Werner, OL, 5-11, 270, Sr.; Jaden Costin, WR/DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Garrett Almond, TE/LB, 6-1, 200, Jr.; Brayden Dillow, OL/DL, 6-1, 180, Jr.; Garrin Golay, OL/LB, 5-10, 220, Jr.; Tuker Davis, OL, 6-0, 235, So. Gallagher Martin

EL DORADO

First-year head coach Wes Bell is defensive-minded, but he will have his work cut out for him on the offensive side of the ball in year one at El Dorado High School. Bell is the former defensive coordinator at the University of Central Missouri where he had great success in the MIAA. Bell has no experience as a head coach at the high school level, but his 15 years at the college level should transfer nicely. Bell is taking over a program that has not had a winning record in over a decade. El Dorado went 2-7 last year, and Bell will need to replace the team’s leading passer, rusher and receiver. In total, the Wildcats lost nine of 11 starters on 5-5 in 2018 / 4A / Southeast Kansas League offense and seven of 11 starters on defense, but Coach: Darrin Wegner (4th year, 13-15; 15th Bell is optimistic about his team’s depth. overall) Assistants: Cory Turner, Matt Washburn, “We will be young on both sides of the ball, but Jeremy Nueswander, Mark Andrews, Mike we are going to have good depth compared to O’Conner, Dave Harlin, Mario Grant previous years,” Bell said. “We do have some Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 returning veterans that have game experience, and Returning lettermen: 10 we are going to lean heavily on them to help our Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense younger players transition into more predominant Ethan Camp, LB, 5-10, 172, Jr.; Jayden Crawford, roles.” OL/DL, 6-2, 260, Sr.; Brady White, OL, 5-8, 250, The Wildcats have four responsible upperclassJr.; Darrel Jones, C/WR, 6-0, 147, Jr. men who will be tasked with aiding the younger Gallagher Martin starters, headlined by senior linebacker Kai Wernli. Wernli recorded 67 tackles, including eight for loss, on his way to first team All-AVCTL DIII honors.

In the secondary, senior Jake Johnson and junior Zach Wittenberg combined for four interceptions and 60 tackles. On offense, senior Jackson Schell is the team’s leading returning rusher, but running backs Dravin Fowler and Jaydon Sundgren will compete for the starting job as well. Developing a quarterback is a pressing issue, but Bell is more concerned with the lack of size along the offensive and defensive lines. Still, Bell believes his team will get stronger as the season progresses. “We will be in good physical and mental condition to start this 2019 season and we hope to avoid the injury bug,” Bell said. “Our kids are excited, and we are looking forward to the opportunity to compete every Friday in a tough league.” 2-7 in 2018 / 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division III Coach: Wes Bell (1st year) Assistants: Brandon Wise, Ryan Hull, Scott Camien, Rob Vinson, Brad Raine, Gary Melcher, Dustin Avery Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 4 Defense Jackson Schell, RB, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Kai Wernli, LB, 5-8, 175, Sr.; Jake Johnson, DB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Zach Wittenberg, DB, 6-1, 165, Jr. Gallagher Martin

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

EUDORA

Sean Hayden’s first year as head coach of the Eudora High School Cardinals did not go as planned. The Cardinals limped to a 1-8 record with their lone win coming on Oct. 5 against winless Ottawa. The Eudora defense was decent, but the offense lacked production. The Cardinals were shut out three times, held to single digits six times, and only scored more than two touchdowns once in their lone win against Ottawa. Eudora returns six starters on offense, including quarterback Zeke Reazin, and the Cardinals will be helped out by the transfer of 6-foot-6 tight end Sloan Hayden from Ulysses, who is the younger brother of Coach Hayden. The Cardinals return enough key pieces to be much improved in 2019 which has Hayden optimistic. “We have a great group of kids coming back who do things the right way,” Hayden said. “We will win with kids who play hard and are great people on and off the field.” The addition of the younger Hayden to the offense will give Reazin one more option. Hayden is an emerging prospect who verbally committed to Missouri State in mid-July. Reazin also has receivers Noah Watkins and Matthew Evans to throw to, while running back Cael Lynch is back as well. The Cardinals also return four offensive linemen to pave the way up front. The Cardinals return seven starters from a defense that allowed 30 points a game. Coming off a one-win season, Eudora has many areas to improve upon. Coach Hayden knows the only way to move forward is to take it one step at a time. “Our goals are to win every day and get better throughout the season,” Hayden said. “We can’t let the past define us and we need to live in the moment. Our keys to success are playing as hard as we can individually while trusting our teammates to do the same.” 1-8 in 2018 / 4A / Frontier League Coach: Sean Hayden (2nd year, 1-8) Assistants: Jason Tharp, Chris Durkin, Dain Hammerschmidt, Brooks Gwin, Reggie Winfield, Tyler Mann, Bryan Heyer Offense: I-formation Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Chris Huslig, OL/DT, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Noah Watkins, WR/DB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Kaden Hartwell, OT, 6-2, 280, Sr.; Jake Boucher, LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Brett Neis, DT, 5-9, 220, Sr.; Matthew Evans, WR/DB, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Zeke Reazin, QB, 5-11, 175, Jr.; Trevor Bohnenblust, OL, 5-10, 200, Jr.; Travis Bohnenblust, OL, 5-10, 200, Jr.; Alex Allison, LB, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Cael Lynch, RB, 5-9, 175, Jr.; Brayden Beerbower, LB, 6-1, 170, So. Gallagher Martin

FORT SCOTT

Replacing Bob Campbell at Fort Scott has a similar feel as replacing Bill Snyder at Kansas State. Campbell coached his last football game at Fort Scott last year in a playoff loss to Basehor-Linwood, ending a career that spanned 24 seasons, two state championships, three runner-up finishes, and eight Southeast Kansas League titles, including a 4-0 league performance last year. A legend like Campbell will leave a lasting legacy, and finding a new head coach has its challenges. Fort Scott didn’t venture too far in finding Bo Graham to usher in a new era. Graham is entering his 15th year on staff, most recently as the defensive coordinator. Graham was a member of Campbell’s second state championship in 2000, where he was an all-state defensive tackle on a Tigers team that went undefeated. Campbell has set the bar high for the Fort Scott program, and Graham is not one to shy away from lofty expectations. “Our team goals have been the same as they have been the past 25 years,” Graham said. “We want to compete in every game we play in. We want to win a league and a state championship.” On paper, Fort Scott will be reloading in 2019. Along with replacing Campbell at coach, the Tigers are replacing standout quarterback and coach’s son, Matt Campbell, who threw for 1,300 yards and scored 15 total touchdowns en route to being selected for the Shrine Bowl. In total, Fort Scott only returns three starters on both sides of the ball. On offense, Grayson Quick and Alex Krebs return on the offensive line, while 6-foot-6, 200 pound wide receiver C.J. Horton looks to be in store for a big year after earning honorable mention all-league honors last year. Defensively, the Tigers return Brody Bowles at defensive back, Hunter Zubieta at linebacker, and Miles Bowman on the defensive line. Graham knows his younger guys will improve once the season begins. “It’s hard to simulate the speed of a varsity football game in practice,” Graham said. “We will need our inexperienced players to come on fast and learn what Friday night game speed is like.” 7-3 in 2018 / 4A / Southeast Kansas League Coach: Bo Graham (1st year) Assistants: Curtis Horton, Alvin Metcalf Jr, Adam Clements, Josh Messer, Matt Glades, Dane Cummings Offense: Multiple I Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense Brody Bowles, DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Hunter Zubieta, LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Alex Krebs, OL, 6-1, 210, Jr.; Grayson Quick, OL, 6-1, 270, Jr.; C.J. Horton, WR, 6-6, 200, Sr.; Miles Bowman, DL, 6-2, 200, Jr. Gallagher Martin

GODDARD

The Goddard High School football team has won at least 10 games for three straight seasons and is 32-6 during that stretch. Goddard was expected by some to take a step back last season with a new head coach, but instead the Lions went 10-3 and made the Class 4A State Championship. Second-year head coach Tommy Beason is expecting more of the same from the Lions, and with seven returning starters on both sides of the ball it’s easy to see why. Beason brought in former Kingman High School head coach Curtis Albin as defensive coordinator during the offseason, and Albin will have one of the best defenses in the area to work with. Mix a tenacious defense with an offense that returns its starting quarterback and multiple weapons and Goddard should once again be one of the best teams in its classification. “Overall, the outlook is bright and the expectations are high for the Lions,” Beason said. “The Lions will get every opponent’s best shot week after week as teams look to knock off the reigning 4A West Sub-State champions.” In his first year as defensive coordinator, Albin will have the luxury of coaching seniors Dhimani Butler and Zeke Howell. Butler, an All-State linebacker by the Wichita Eagle, recorded 106 tackles and forced four fumbles last year. Howell was named a Wichita Eagle All-State defensive lineman as well after leading the state with 18 sacks. The Lions relied heavily on their defense last year, and while they should be able to do the same this year, Beason expects the offense to be improved. Quarterback Kyler Semrad had a breakout sophomore year, throwing for nearly 2,000 yards and 18 touchdowns. Semrad’s two favorite targets heading into this season will likely be a pair of 6-foot-4 standouts in Blake Mitchell and Carter Morrow. Together, the duo combined for 832 yards and 13 touchdowns. Goddard has star power, but the Lions also have a solid supporting cast. For a program that has made the state championship in two of the last three seasons, expectations are high for Goddard in 2019. “This years’ team may be one of the most talented groups to come out of Goddard High,” Beason said.

INDEPENDENCE

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There were very few positives to take away from Independence’s 2018 season. The Bulldogs went 0-9 with only one game being closer than 27 points — a 40-34 loss at Circle in which Independence led 34-12 at half before Circle scored 28 unanswered to close out the game. John Black, who spent the last nine seasons at Neodesha with previous head coaching stops at Valley Center and Wamego, will serve his first year at Independence with nowhere to go but up. Taking last year’s season into consideration, Black has the opportunity to turn a few heads in year one. The Bulldogs return seven starters on both sides of the ball who should be much improved this season. Black is hoping to install a new culture at Independence that emphasizes doing things the right way. “We will play together as a team and as a family,” Black said. “We will have class at everything we do.” The Bulldogs have a nice blend of talent on offense, starting at the quarterback position with senior Brayden Coller. Coller passed and rushed for over 500 yards last season and earned AllSoutheast Kansas League honors. Wyatt Chism is back at receiver and was one of Coller’s favorite targets last season. Indepence returns two running backs from last year in Amauryon Farley and Travareus Wilson. The duo will be running behind an experienced offensive line that features Trevor Rinne, Evan Knight, and Morgan Melle. Defensively, Jaxon Jarnigan is the only returning defensive lineman for Independence, but the Bulldogs return four linebackers and two defensive backs to help shore up a defense that allowed at least 36 points in every game. The Bulldogs will rely on juniors and sophomores to fill out the rest of his starting lineup. Black knows that there is no fun in going 0-9. He is hoping his players have more fun this season. “We will need to have a positive attitude this year as we start a new system for these young men,” Black said. “I want to improve everyday and have fun in what we are doing.”

0-9 in 2019 / 4A / Southeast Kansas League Coach: John Black (1st year; 21st overall) Assistants: John Mangan, Marcus Lanning, Brandon Kebert, Michael Rose, Lance Fabrizius Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 10-3 in 2018 / 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Returning lettermen: 14 Division II Coach: Tommy Beason (2nd year, 10-3) Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Assistants: Curtis Albin, Cody Kohler, Bobby Brayden Coller, QB/DB, Sr.; Amauryon Farley, Rehse, John Burkhart, Joel Condray, Blake Myers, RB/LB, Sr.; Travareus Wilson, RB/DB, Jr.; Wyatt Michael Brewer Chism, WR/LB, Sr.; Trevor Rinne, OL/LB, Sr.; Evan Offense: Spread Air Raid Defense: 3-3 Stack Knight, OL, Jr.; Morgan Melle, OL, Jr.; Ian Oliver, Returning lettermen: 43 LB, Jr.; Jaxon Jarnigan, DE, Jr. Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Gallagher Martin Kyler Semrad, QB, 6-1, 185, Jr.; Blake Mitchell, Rick Pollard’s first year as head coach of Kansas Junior running back LaJames White is hoping to TE, 6-4, 205, Sr.; Carter Morrow, WR, 6-4, 200, City Piper started off strong, but the Pirates could be a household name by the end of the season. Last Sr.; Kaeden Hoefer, WR/RB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Rhett not maintain their momentum down the stretch. Still, year he rushed for 987 yards and 11 touchdowns Brown, OT, 6-1, 245, Jr.; Jake Shope, WR, 6-1, Piper won a playoff game and went a respectable 5-5 in nine games. He also caught three touchdowns 165, Jr.; Soren Carr, WR, 6-2, 160, Jr.; Tyler playing in a competitive Frontier League. passes. After starting the season 3-0, Piper hosted If the offense is to produce it will need to find four Haskell, OL, 6-0, 220, Jr.; Dhimani Butler, LB, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Zeke Howell, DL, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Nalell undefeated Louisburg and gave the eventual league qualified offensive linemen to go along with big champs all they could handle in a 28-21 Louisburg junior Andrew Jarvis, who at 6-4, 265 will anchor the Kapten, DB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Dalton Caraway, DB, 5-11, 155, Jr.; Braydon Wickliffe, DL, 5-11, 255, So. win. That was the start of a four-game losing streak, offensive line as the only returning starter. all against league opponents, that finally ended with Piper is definitely replacing some talent this year, Gallagher Martin a blowout win against Bonner Springs in the regular but that doesn’t mean 2019 will be a rebuilding year. season finale. The Pirates eked by Bonner Springs “Our team’s key to success will be how fast our in the first round of the playoffs the following week, young guys grow up,” Pollard said. “Our goals for the before a much more convincing loss to Louisburg season are to get better every day.” ended Pollard’s first year as head coach. With 20 returning lettermen, Piper is in a position to 5-5 in 2018 / 4A / Frontier League take a step forward and finish with a winning record. Coach: Rick Pollard (2nd year, 5-5) While the defense returns eight starters, replacing Assistants: Kevin Coker, Tim Cottrell, Kyle Moore, defensive tackle Cooper Beebe, one of last year’s Justin Richmond, Chris Brindle, Ken Franklin, Shae Kansas Pregame coverboys who is now at Kansas Grosdidier, Matt Storrer State, will be an obstacle. Offense: Spread RPO Defense: 4-2-5 Last season, Branden Martin led the team in Returning lettermen: 20 tackles and tackles for loss as a sophomore from his Returning starters: 5 Offense, 8 Defense linebacker position. Fellow junior linebacker Darius LaJames White, RB, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Branden Martin, McNeal also had a breakout season last year, and if LB, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Andrew Jarvis, OL, 6-4, 265, Jr.; both players are improved they would form one of the Darius McNeal, LB, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Jack Robison, most formidable linebacker duos in the league. TE, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Brandon Snell, DB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Junior Brandon Snell is the leader in the secondary, Malakhi Kennon, WR, 5-9, 155, Jr.; Caleal Kennedy, while junior Caleal Kennedy will do his best to fill the DL, 6-0, 235, Jr. Gallagher Martin gap left behind by Beebe on the defensive line. The Pirates return five on offense, but replacing quarterback Dalton White could be difficult. White led 399 E Hudson Rd • Fort Scott, KS • 620-223-5756 the team in passing yards (1,209) and rushing yards (1,058) and finished with 25 total touchdowns. www.sekfinancial.com

KC-PIPER

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

LOUISBURG

Louisburg’s season ended a game or two earlier than it should have last year, as the Wildcats ran into Bishop Miege in the 4A quarterfinals. After an 8-0 regular season and a 10-0 start, Louisburg fell to the eventual state champions, 5521. Entering his third year as head coach, Robert Ebenstein has put together two nice seasons at Louisburg, and continued the Wildcats’ tradition of excellence. Louisburg will be welcoming some new faces this year, with only five returning starters on offense and three on defense. Regardless, Ebenstein isn’t changing his team goals from the past two seasons. “Our goals are to become league champs, secure the No. 1 seed in the 4A East playoffs, and take it game by game after that,” Ebenstein said. The Wildcats do have to replace a pair of Shrine Bowlers in running back/linebacker Austin Moore and offensive/defensive lineman Kiefer Tucker. Together the pair were two of the strongest and most physical players in Kansas. Despite areas where the Wildcats will be inexperienced, Louisburg is in good hands as long as Madden Rutherford is under center. Rutherford is one of the best quarterbacks in 4A; he throws an accurate ball and has the athleticism to move around the pocket when necessary and operate Lousiburg’s option offense. He passed for 1,100 yards and 14 TDs in 2018 and rushed for 354 yards and four TDs. With offensive lineman Brayden White protecting him, Rutherford doesn’t have to do a lot of scrambling. At 6-5, 285, White is also one of the best at his position in 4A. Due to his ability to play both sides of the ball at a high level, White has generated interest from numerous college football programs. White is joined on the offensive line by senior Garrett Harding and together the duo provides a formidable pair of blockers. Louisburg also returns a pair of running backs/linebackers in Charlie Koontz and Ben Weidenmann who will look to continue a potent rushing attack and stifling defense the Wildcats featured last year. Junior Weston Guetterman will also be a valuable player for Lousiburg at wide receiver and defensive back. For Louisburg to continue the success it had last year, Ebenstein says “Hard work and mental toughness” will be the keys in 2019.

MCPHERSON

For just the second time in program history, the McPherson High School football team reached the semifinals of the state tournament. The Bullpups failed to make their first state championship game appearance, coming up one point shy to Goddard in a heartbreaking semi-final defeat. While the Bullpups return 53 lettermen, the absence of last year’s senior class will be apparent. “We lost the most successful class of seniors in our program’s history,” head coach Jace Pavlovich said. “They will have a lasting impact on our program because our young guys learned from them how to do everything right.” McPherson leaned on its defense last year, which allowed just 10.5 points per game. No team had scored more than 13 points on the Bullpups heading into the playoffs. Additionally, the Bullpups did not have a game closer than 21 points until the season-ending loss to Goddard. While McPherson must replace key players it’s safe to the say the program no longer rebuilds, but rather reloads, and the Bullpup cupboard is far from bare. The defense loses five starters, but returns three members of the secondary and two linebackers. Senior linebacker Mason Thrash earned All-Class honorable mention from multiple outlets and will set the tone for a defense that has a reputation as one of the best in the state. And while the Bullpups graduated three defensive lineman, the one returning is Cody Stufflebean, who picked up multiple FBS scholarship offers in the offseason including from the Pac 12’s University of Colorado, Big 10 power Wisconsin and ACC heavyweight Virginia Tech before verbally committing to Kansas State in June. Pavlovich has no problem relying on his defense, which he may have to do as the offense faces question marks. Finding skill position guys, including a quarterback, is the most pressing concern. Pavlovich expects the Bullpups to be strong on the offensive line, but quarterback and receivers have yet to be decided. “We have a ton of talented kids coming up in the program but are unproven in a starting capacity,” Pavlovich said. “The last two years, these guys have been able to practice eight extra weeks which should benefit us.” Pavlovich is focused on getting the most out of his players. “Our number one goal is to simply reach our potential and worry about what we can control,” Pavlovich said. “Our goal is simple: We want to play good football towards the end of the year.”

MULVANE

Heading into the 2018 season, Mulvane fans knew replacing head coach Dave Fennewald and quarterback Jayden Price would be no small task. It was not a big surprise that the Wildcats began last season 1-2 with lopsided losses to Andale and Wichita Collegiate. But first-year head coach Daniel Myears and company turned things around, winning their next five games before an upset to Ark City ended their season in the first round of the playoffs, 29-26. The Wildcats return five starters on offense and six on defense and are determined to have a better regular season to ensure a better seed in the playoffs. “We want to better our No. 4 seed in 4A West,” Myears said. Mulvane returns its best offensive player in senior Cole Diffenbaugh. Last season, Diffenbaugh rushed for 1,207 yards and 12 touchdowns. He averaged 6.1 yards a carry and 134 yards a game. Diffenbaugh was second on the team with six receiving touchdowns and third on the team with 13 catches and 385 receiving yards. Tab Creekmore had a solid sophomore season at quarterback, throwing for 1,386 yards and 19 touchdowns. Creekmore had nine interceptions and completed 52.8 percent of his passes, but should only get better throwing the ball his final two seasons. The Wildcats also return three senior offensive linemen in Matt Beyer, Ethan Marshall, and Kyle Young. Developing receivers will be the biggest issue on offense as the Wildcats do not return any starters. Defensilvey, the Wildcats return their leading tackler in senior safety Caleb Mader, who tallied 77 tackles, two forced fumbles and an interception in 2018. The Wildcats will need to develop pass rushers as Blake Scott and Lane Shockey, who combined for 11 sacks, are both gone. Senior Jaxen Young is back after recording four sacks and 48 tackles last season. Myears says being strong in the trenches will be important for Mulvane in 2019. “Our keys to success will be our offensive and defensive line play,” Myears said.

6-3 in 2018 / 4A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division IV Coach: Daniel Myears (2nd year, 6-3) Assistants: Steve Nelson, David Dieker, Kolby 11-1 in 2018 / 4A Fennewald, Jason Whisler, Randy Fox, Taylor Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division III 10-1 in 2018 / 4A / Frontier League Hageman Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Coach: Jace Pavlovich (5th year, 34-10) Assistants: Chet Harlin, Scott Davis, Heath Gerstner, Returning lettermen: 22 Coach: Robert Ebenstein (3rd year, 16-4) John Montgomery, David Goerzen, Brandon Assistants: Jeff Lohse, Joel McGhee, Drew Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Labertew, Patrick Corcoran, Matt Sandbo Harding, Ty Pfannensteil, Pete Skakal, Alex Cole Diffenbaugh, RB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Tab Offense: Spread I Defense: 4-2-5 Gentges, Kade Larson Creekmore, QB, 5-8, 170, Jr.; Matt Beyer, OL, 6-3, Returning lettermen: 53 Offense: Option Defense: 4-3 250, Sr.; Ethan Marshall, OL, 5-8, 275, Sr.; Kyle Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Returning lettermen: 16 Young, OL, 6-0, 260, Sr.; Caleb Mader, S, 5-8, Tyson Gottwald, DB, 5-9, 176, Sr.; Jakob Feil, DB, Returning starters: 5 Offense, 3 Defense 160, Sr.; Tanner Nelson, LB, 5-7, 185, Sr.; Trey 5-7, 166, Sr.; Kaleb Hoppes, DB, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Madden Rutherford, QB, 6-4, 195, Sr.; Brayden Greer, LB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Tyler Lanzrath, OLB, 6-1, Brysen Labertew, LB, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Mason Thrash, White, OL/DL, 6-5, 285, Sr.; Garrett Harding, OL/ 170, Sr.; Jaxen Young, DL, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Bryson LB, 6-1, 198, Sr.; Cody Stufflebean, DE/TE, 6-4, 230, DL, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Charlie Koontz, RB/LB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Kourtney Craig, OL, 5-11, 212, Sr.; Jonah Scott, Williams, DL, 6-0, 220, Sr. Sr.; Weston Guetterman, WR/DB, 5-10, 160, Jr.; OL, 6-2, 226, Jr.; Jonah Clarke, FB, 5-10, 189, Sr. Gallagher Martin Ben Weidenmann, RB/LB, 6-0, 180, Jr. Gallagher Martin Gallagher Martin

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OTTAWA

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Sept. 8, 2017 seems like an eternity ago for the Ottawa High School football team. The Cyclones are currently on a 16-game losing streak that dates back to a 28-13 win over Wamego two seasons ago. After a winless 2018, Ottawa finds itself desperate for any success. Entering his seventh year as head coach, Rob Hedrick has 15 returning lettermen to work with in trying to right the ship. “We really didn’t anticipate this rough stretch,” Hedrick said. “We really just want to get back into the win column and build some positive momentum.” The Ottawa offense struggled to put points on the board last year. In six of nine games, Ottawa failed to reach double digits. The Cyclones reached a season-high 21 points in a Week 5 loss to Bonner Springs, and scored 13 points or less in every other game. Ottawa returns four starters on offense, but the Cyclones will be replacing quarterback Jackson Allan. Hedrick is optimistic about the play of his backfield, with talented sophomore Aaron Clevenger (6-2, 210) ready to carry a heavier load and senior Daidrien Aho providing some needed speed. Clevenger and Aho will be running behind an offensive line that returns three starters: Ethan Janssen, Michael Johnson and Jordan Watson. The Cyclones were not spectacular on defense a year ago, either. Ottawa gave up close to 39 points a game, including 59 to Paola and 56 to Lousiburg in the playoffs. The defense showed glimpses of competitiveness throughout the season, but with the non-existent offense the Ottawa defense needed a near-perfect game to give the team a chance at victory. Ottawa returns three starters on defense. Aho doubles as a linebacker, while Janssen and Watson play on the defensive line. Hedrick believes he can build around his returning starters, but last year’s role players and junior varsity members will need to step up to end the losing streak. “We have several very good football players returning,” Hedrick said. “Developing the kids that will be playing alongside those players will be our key to success.” 0-9 in 2018 / 4A / Frontier League Coach: Rob Hedrick (7th year, 26-33) Assistants: Pat Boeh, Evan Shaffer, Blake Lasley, Cliff McCullough, Jake Huddlestun, Kendall Thompkins, Darius Johnson Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 3 Defense Daidrien Aho, RB/LB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Ethan Janssen, OL/DE, 6-3, 185, Jr.; Michael Johnson, OL, 5-8, 185, Jr.; Jordan Watson, OL/DL, 5-9, 180, Sr. Gallagher Martin

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McPherson

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

PAOLA

Paola High School has missed the playoffs just once in the past 16 years. Head coach Mike Dumpert, who has been with the program since 1980, has established one of the most successful and consistent cultures in Kansas high school football. Paola enjoyed another outstanding season in 2018, going 9-2 and falling to Basehor-Linwood in the 4A Quarterfinals. With seven returning starters on both sides of the ball and 20 returning lettermen, there’s no reason to believe that Paola will not be its dominant self again in 2019. “Our goals are to improve as players and people, and represent Paola in a manner that best reflects the ideals we stand for,” Dumpert said. Replacing first-team All-Frontier League quarterback Seth Richmond may be the most prominent issue facing the Panthers on offense. But whoever takes over for Richmond should face a fairly painless transition. Paola returns Mikey Stribbling, Clay Essex, and Carter Stanchceld on the offensive line to aid the cause. Conner Hasz returns at running back, while Evan Phillips and Garrett Williams return at slotback. Also keep an eye out for Evan Peuser at tight end. If the Panthers can find a capable quarterback, they should be able to stay proficient on offense. Last year, Paola scored at least 35 points in its nine wins, but scored just seven points in both of its losses. Defensively is where Paola typically shines; last year was no exception. Paola recorded four shutouts in its first five games of the season, outscoring the opposition 219-13 during that span. In total, Paola recorded five shutouts on the year and only allowed 8.8 points per game. Back from last year’s defense are three defensive linemen and three members of the secondary. Peuser is the lone returning linebacker, but Paola should once again be elite on defense, barring injuries. “Keys to success will be staying healthy and maintaining an attitude of togetherness and embracing the grind of weekly improvement,” Dumpert said.

PITTSBURG

The Purple Dragons have some reloading to do after going 8-2 last season with their only losses coming to 5A power Mill Valley and five-time defending state champions Bishop Miege in the second round of the 4A playoffs. Pittsburg had impressive wins over Blue Valley North, Olathe East, De Soto, and a 22-point win over Spring Hill in the first round of the playoffs. Four Purple Dragons signed letters of intent to play college football last year, led by Sports in Kansas 4A Offensive Player of the Year Dylan White. Last season, White led Pittsburg with 857 receiving yards and 18 total touchdowns. He’ll stay home and play at Pittsburg State. Linebacker Dylan Jordan was to the defense what White was to the offense. The 6-3, 215 pound outside linebacker committed to TCU over Nebraska and Auburn, but announced this summer that his college career will start at Fort Scott Community College. Pittsburg is also replacing Jerek Butcher and his 200 tackles from the last two seasons. Butcher is headed to Kansas to play for Les Miles. Lineman Peyton Steele is also headed to Fort Scott Community College after leading Pittsburg on the offensive and defensive lines last year before an injury cut his senior season short. In total, Pittsburg only returns four starters on offense and three on defense. While the Purple Dragons are returning 18 lettermen, the team will look much different than last season. “Our goals for the season are to get better everyday and to play for our community, school and teammates,” head coach Tom Nickelson said. “I expect us to do all the little things correctly, to respect our opponents and to play hard.” Pittsburg should be solid in the trenches this year, returning two offensive linemen and three defensive linemen. Sam Roark can play either linebacker or strong safety, and Pittsburg may need him to do both at times. Ethan Wiedert is the only returning linebacker, while Pittsburg does not return any members from its secondary. With all the new faces Pittsburg will be breaking in, Nickelson knows his team will need to learn how to play with each other quickly. “Avoiding injuries and figuring out team chemistry will be our keys to success,” Nickelson said.

ROSE HILL

Rose Hill didn’t take a step back in Lee Weber’s first year as head coach, but the Rockets did not improve on a 1-8 record from the year prior. Weber has nearly 20 years of coaching experience, and he knows the rebuilding process is not always a quick one. “Turnarounds do not happen overnight as we found out last year,” Weber said. “This turnaround will be a multi-year process and being 1-0 daily is what we have to focus on. “Quite simply, we are going to treat every game like our Super Bowl.” Weber says his team is focused and dedicated to the program. “They are the most coachable group of kids I have had in 19 years of coaching,” Weber said. “Success is coming for them; we just have to wait.” The Rockets do not return their starting quarterback, leading rusher, or leading receiver, but Weber expects to be good in the trenches. Rose Hill returns six offensive linemen who saw significant time last year, headlined by all-league lineman Colton McGrew. The d-line may be even deeper with three transfers — Noah Bolticoff from Andover, Gary Tran from Derby, and Christian Smith from Texas. On top of the transfers, Rose Hill returns four defensive linemen from last season, including senior Mason Lane, who was all-league. “Our offensive and defensive line will have to prove themselves, but our depth and size has really blossomed over the winter,” Weber said. The Rockets should have one of the best front sevens in AVCTL Division IV with three starting linebackers returning, but replacing the entire secondary won’t be easy. On offense, senior Trent Barnhart is expected to take over at quarterback after splitting time at the position last year, but Weber says junior Bryson Evans is also in consideration for the starting job. The Rockets will also be replacing the majority of their skill position players, but have some experience with running back David Leck and receiver Spencer Nolan returning. “We have some fantastic young players, but they need to step up to the plate under the lights on Friday,” Weber said. “I really love our group of kids.”

1-8 in 2018 / 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division IV Coach: Lee Weber (2nd year, 1-8) Assistants: Ryan Hill, David Penner, Brian Byers, Wade Weibert, Jim Madison, and Brandon Barnhart Offense: Spread/I-formation Defense: 4-3 9-2 in 2018 / 4A / Frontier League Returning lettermen: 11 Coach: Mike Dumpert (19th year, 161-52) 8-2 in 2018 / 4A / Independent Returning starters: 9 Offense, 7 Defense Assistants: Mike Smith, Todd Weaver, David Coach: Tom Nickelson (9th season, 56-23) Colton McGrew, OL/DE, 6-2, 225, Jr.; Adam Kane, Steve Gorsuch, Darvin Willard Assistants: Leroy O’Bray, Matt Butler, Matt Herndon, OL/DL, 5-10, 230, Sr.; Colby Heinz, OL, Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-3 Vaughn, Trevor Elliott, Jon Bishop, AJ Terry, Jose 6-0, 200, Jr.; Trey Coykendall, OL, 6-3, 205, Sr.; Returning lettermen: 20 Spear, Kip Whiteley, Andrew Brennon Dalton Dockers, OL, 6-0, 240, Jr.; Tristan Calef, Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 OL, 6-1, 235, Jr.; Trent Barnhart, QB/LB, 5-11, 155, Mikey Stribbling, G, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Clay Essex, Returning lettermen: 18 Jr.; David Leck, RB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Spencer Nolan, T/DE, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Carter Stanchfield, G, 6-3, Returning starters: 4 Offense, 3 Defense RB, 5-8, 135, Jr.; Mason Lane, DE, 6-7, 180, Sr.; 240, Jr.; Evan Peuser, TE/LB, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Evan Sam Herring, OL/DL, 5-11, 230, Sr.; Matt Cicero, Chandler Cox, DT, 5-9, 210, Sr.; David Leck, LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Conner Williamson, LB, 5-11, 170, Sr. Phillips, SB/CB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Conner Hasz, RB, OL, 6-0, 225, Jr.; Shay Mahnken, DL, 5-9, 200, Gallagher Martin 5-7, 145, Sr.; Garrett Williams, SB/S, 6-0, 165, Jr.; Sr.; Aaron Woods, DL, 6-3, 218, Sr.; Sam Roark,

Javier Castillo, DT, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Bull Talcott, NG, SS/LB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Ethan Wiedert, LB, 6-0, 185, 5-8, 250, Sr. Gallagher Martin Sr.; Trevor Stover, TE, 5-11, 185, Sr. GM

SPRING HILL

Despite a 4-5 record, the Spring Hill Broncos were a competitive football team, which the best teams in the Frontier League can attest to. The Broncos opened the season with a four-point loss at Louisburg, who would go on to finish the season 10-1 and league champions. Spring Hill also fell to Tonganoxie (7-3) by six points. While lopsided losses to powers Paola, De Soto, and Pittsburg prevented the Broncos from a record above .500, Spring Hill still played respectable football all year. The Broncos have only finished with a winning record once this decade — a 5-4 season in 2016 — but with six starters back on both sides of the ball, Spring Hill has a chance at success in 2019. “We return some good players at key spots for us offensively and defensively,” head coach Jason Feeback said. “We will need to have our offensive and defensive lines learn quickly in the always-tough Frontier League.” The Spring Hill offense begins with senior running back Zade Barker. In Spring Hill’s 24-22 win over Kansas City Piper last season, Barker ran for 170 yards and two touchdowns on 39 carries. Senior quarterback Corbyn Meyers is coming off an up-and-down junior season. Last season Meyers threw for 760 yards and five touchdowns, completing 50 percent of his passes and throwing seven

interceptions. Spring Hill also returns three offensive linemen up front. The Spring Hill defense was solid last year, allowing just under 23 points a game. The Broncos struggled defensively against some of the better competition, but overall was a consistent unit. The defense will feature five returning senior starters and one junior. The Broncos return three d-backs and two linebackers, but will be thin on returning experience along the defensive line. 4-5 in 2018 / 4A / Frontier League Coach: Jason Feeback (5th year, 13-23) Assistants: Morgan Abel, Dax Barker, Brian Hogan, Jerry Hunsaker, Ben Gehring, Nic Madelen, Alex Winkler Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Zade Barker, RB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Austin Benedit, OL, 5-11, 230, Sr.; Wyatt Dickie, LB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Carson Downes, DL, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Bear Gardner, K, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Wyatt George, OL, 6-1, 245, Sr.; Corbyn Meyers, QB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Jackson Rauenzahn, LB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Dom Scheerer, DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Hunter Willyard, DB, 5-8, 165, Sr.; Conner Zorn, WR, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Denver Gardner, OL, 6-2, 260, Jr.; Cody Powell, DB, 5-11, 160, Jr. Gallagher Martin

SM-BISHOP MIEGE

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The Bishop Miege High School football senior class has no idea what it feels like to lose in the playoffs. The Stags have won a state championship every year since 2014 and the goal isn’t changing in 2019. After enduring the grueling schedule that is the Eastern Kansas League, the Stags have found relative ease during the playoffs in recent memory. A 69-31 victory over Goddard in the state championship capped Miege’s season last year. In fact, a 29-point win over Pittsburg in the round of 16 was the closest a team came to Miege in the playoffs. Once again the Stags look like state-championship favorites. However, Bishop Miege does have a few questions to answer heading into the season. The offensive line loses four starters from last year and the Stags will be breaking in a new quarterback. Bishop Miege is still loaded with talent, but the Stags will have to rely on new faces if they are to win their sixth straight state championship. “Our goal as a program is to win a state championship,” eighth-year head coach Jon Holmes said. “We feel if we can compete in the EKL week in and week out we will be in a good position entering the playoffs.” The Stags are in good hands offensively with running back Brison Cobbins. His blend of speed and power helped him rush for 1,300 yards and 23 touchdowns last year. Bishop Miege also returns its second-leading rusher in DeAunte Parker, who ran for 460 yards and four touchdowns. Those backs will run behind big offensive tackle Brian Burns, who recently announced his intention to play college football at Harvard. Wide receiver Daniel Jackson, who plans to play collegiately at Minnesota, is back from injury and will command attention from opposing secondaries. But Phillippe Wesley established himself as a threat after racking up 987 yards receiving with 11 TDs last year. On defense the Stags return seven starters. Holmes says the linebackers are Miege’s deepest unit, led by Mikey Welsh, who had 82 tackles and nine tackles for loss last year. The secondary returns three starters while the defensive line returns four lineman who started at least one game last year. 11-2 in 2018 / 4A / Eastern Kansas League Coach: Jon Holmes (8th year, 77-12) Assistants: Travis Grosdidier, Jim Giokaris, Rex VanBuskirk, Steve Koesterer, Mitch Wille, Mike Galvin, Joe Kobilarcsik, Kevin Mulvany, Matt Eshelbrenner Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 43 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Brian Burns, LT, 6-4, 245, Sr.; Brison Cobbins, RB, 5-7, 178, Sr.; DeAunte Parker, RB, 5-11, 191, Sr.; Daniel Jackson, WR, 5-11, 191, Sr.; Phillippe Wesley, WR, 5-11, 185, Jr.; Jude Putz, WR, 5-9, 155, Jr.; Connor Doble, TE, 6-3, 215, Sr.; Mack Moeller, TE, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Mason Weber, DE, 6-3, 252, Sr.; Max VanMeter, DT, 6-3, 255, Sr.; Mikey Welsh, LB, 5-11, 203, Sr.; Jack Kincaid, LB, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Rishi Rattan, CB, 5-10, 163, Sr.; Grant Fussell, SS, 5-10, 181, Sr.; Ty’Quez Agnew-Whitten, FS, 6-1, 205, Sr. GM

TONGANOXIE

Tonganoxie High School’s first year in the Frontier League was a success. The Frontier League boasts some of the best talent in 4A and is almost always competitive. After an undefeated season in the Kaw Valley League in 2017, the Chieftains made a smooth transition to the Frontier League, going 6-1 in league and 7-3 overall. Tonganoxie began last year with brutal backto-back games against Basehor-Linwood and Louisburg, but responded from those two defeats with seven straight wins. Despite a 35-13 loss to Paola in the second round of the 4A Playoffs, Tonganoxie enjoyed a great season under coach Al Troyer, who is now in year eighth. With eight returning starters on offense and seven on defense, Tonganoxie shouldn’t be taking a step backward in 2019, especially with Cole Sample leading the way up front on both sides. Sample is just as physically imposing on the offensive line as he is on the defensive line. At 6-3, 285, Sample can deliver pancake blocks with ease while commanding double teams on defense. Sample, an all-state lineman, started all 10 games for Tonganoxie and recorded 72 tackles. Sample’s strength also translates in the spring where he is coming off a state championship in the shot put and a third-place finish in the discus. Sample is one of five returning offensive linemen, which doesn’t include returning all-league tight ends Conner Searcy and Dallas Bond.

The Chieftains will be one of the most physical teams in the Frontier League. Developing skill position players is key. Tonganoxie is looking to replace QB Hayden Robbins, who threw for 1,015 yards and eight TDs last year. Just as importantly, Tonganoxie is searching for RB Korbin Riedel’s replacement after he exploded for 1,531 rushing yards and 17 TDs. Leading receiver Elijah Tyner and his 332 receiving yards and four TDs are back to help the offense. Defensively, Sample is the player to keep an eye out for, but senior LB Dustin Rhoads and sophomore d-back Sam Kleidosty were both impressive in 2018. 7-3 in 2018 / 4A / Frontier League Coach: Al Troyer (8th year, 40-29) Assistants: Matt Bond, Preston Troyer, Matt Thierolf, John Morgan, Josh Fahlgren Offense: Spread Defense: Even Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Cole Sample, OL/DL, 6-3, 285, Sr.; Conner Searcy, TE/LB, 6-2, 230, Sr.; Dustin Rhoads, OL/LB, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Willie Harris, OL/DL, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Elijah Tyner, WR/DB, 5-6, 160, Sr.; Dallas Bond, TE/ DE, 6-3, 190, Jr.; Quentin Maggart, OL, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Jarrod Lowe, OL/DE, 6-1, 230, Jr.; Cooper Cunningham, RB/DB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Tucker Isaacs, TE/DE, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Sam Kleidosty, DB, 5-10, 165, So. Gallagher Martin

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TOWANDA-CIRCLE

2-7 in 2018 / 4A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division III Coach: Logan Clothier (3rd year, 2-16) Assistants: Matt Ingrim, Joe Zinn, Les Zoch, Chris Oliver, Dan Rose Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Luke Myers, QB/DB, Sr.; Gunner Coslett, RB/LB, Sr.; Solomon Bowen, ATH/DB, Sr.; Jake Shaults, WR/LB, Shawn Wilson, DL, Sr.; Tylar Cheek, OL, Sr. GM

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Logan Clothier saw his Circle Thunderbirds take a step forward in 2018. After going winless in his first season at the helm, the T-Birds posted two wins last fall and narrowly missed a third with a 7-6 loss to Augusta. Circle increased their scoring output from 72 points to 106 and reduced the points allowed from 410 to 274. Further, in 2017 the Circle defense allowed 34 or more points seven times, but last year did so just three times. Continuing to improve will be the key for a program that has not had much success in recent years. “Our goals are to continue to grow our program by building relationships with our kids, holding them accountable, and teaching them the game of football,” Clothier said. “Our kids got a little taste of success last year and I know they’re hungry for more. We must continue to work relentlessly in every aspect and grow as a team.” The Thunderbirds return five starters on offense and defense and 14 lettermen. Circle will be hoping to see progression from senior quarterback Luke Myers in 2019. Last season, Myers threw for 623 yards and completed 46 percent of his passes. Myers also had a touchdown to interception ratio of 2/11, but did rush for four touchdowns. Replacing the production of running back Corbin Ingrim and his team-leading 428 rushing yards and seven touchdowns will be the biggest key for Circle on offense. Look for seniors Gunner Coslett and Solomon Bowen to handle a lot of the responsibility in the ground game. Bowen, who Clothier lists as an athlete, led the team last season with 18 receptions and 214 receiving yards. The Thunderbirds also return junior receiver Jake Shaults who had seven receptions for 62 yards — both of which were third on the team last season. Replacing Ingrim and his 119 tackles will again be the biggest challenge for Circle on defense. Bowen, at defensive back, is the team’s leading returner with 49 tackles. Coslett, at linebacker, is second with 47. Clothier knows his team is still learning how to compete and win. He’s hoping to take another step forward with the program in 2019. “Continue to embrace the process of getting better each and every day will be our keys to success,” Clothier said. “To be disciplined every day in everything we do which will carry over on the feld. Focusing on an attention to detail during practice will carry over to the fourth quarter in ball games.”

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ULYSSES

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WINFIELD

Wellington native Zane Aguilar has seen tremendous improvement in his three years as coach. After a winless first season, Wellington rebounded with a respectable 5-5 record in 2017. Last season, the Crusaders finished 8-3 and won two playoff games. Wellington did not waltz to an impressive record thanks to an easy schedule. The Crusaders thumped Wichita Collegiate, 32-0, to start the season and also beat Buhler in the first round of the playoffs. Additionally, Wellington was a two-point conversion away from defeating Mulvane, and played state runner-up Goddard within two touchdowns in the state quarterfinals. The progress Wellington has made under Aguilar is no fluke, and the Crusaders are determined to keep moving forward in the win column. “This should be the biggest senior class that we have dressed out in years,” Aguilar said. “These young men will need to show the way for some of the underclassmen in order for us to push forward.” On offense it begins with replacing standout receiver DeAndre Washington, who became Wellington’s first Shrine Bowl selection since Tim Lira in 2003. The Crusaders will also be breaking in a new QB, but with three returning o-linemen and a returning tight end, Wellington should be strong in the trenches. The Crusaders also return receivers Christian Buckman and Tayshaun Washington. Wellington will be strong up front on defense as well, with five returning defensive linemen who saw significant starting time a season ago. Wellington also returns linebackers Isaac Hilt and Zane Cornejo, but safety Zander Vargas is the only returning member of the secondary. “We return a huge part of our line this fall,” Aguilar said. “With that said, we will need to see huge things from them all season.” There was a time when Wellington was a power. The program has four state championships, including two with Aguilar as a player in 2001 and 2002. Although Wellington has landed on hard times, it appears the worst is behind them. “The main goal for this season is to continue to build a foundation for the Crusader program,” Aguilar said. “We are striving to teach life lessons and prepare a good group of young men for the future.”

Winfield High School has seen an increase in wins every year since the Vikings hired Linn Hibbs four years ago. Still, the Vikings haven’t won more than three games in a season since going 7-4 back in 2013. Winfield is coming off a 3-6 season that saw the Vikings field a competitive football team against every team on its schedule except McPherson in week two. The Vikings opened the season with a 7-3 loss to rival Ark City before dropping a 40-point loss to the Bullpups. After a 21-0 shutout win over Circle, the Vikings fell 26-20 to Labette County. The Vikings rebounded with back-to-back wins over league foes Augusta and El Dorado before ending the season on a three-game losing streak, including back-to-back losses to Buhler to end the season. Winfield will play the same tough schedule they did last season, and there aren’t any games the Vikings can chalk up as “easy wins.” Still, it seems Hibbs has the program headed in the right direction. “The schedule is extremely challenging; all of our opponents continue to improve,” Hibbs said. “This being our fourth year, our kids have a better understanding of our expectations and how hard you have to play to be successful. We feel good about the progress we have made. We are looking forward to an outstanding season.” The Vikings will be experienced in the trenches led by four senior offensive and defensive linemen. Zach Phillips earned second-team All-AVCTL Division III honors last season on the offensive line. Senior linebacker Steele Morin will lead the defense after garnering second-team all-league honors. Morin will also replace first-team all-league selection Jack Mull at running back. In total, the Vikings return eight starters on offense, seven on defense, and 26 lettermen. “We must win the turnover margin and be more physical,” Hibbs said about his team’s keys to success. “I’m excited about the season.”

8-3 in 2018 / 4A / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division IV Coach: Zane Aguilar (4th year, 13-17) Assistants: Ryan Elder, Nick Wellington, Ross Foley, 4-5 in 2018 / 4A / Great West Activities Conference Tim Lira, Ryan Jenkins, Tonner Finch Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Coach: Rick Cue (2nd year, 4-5) Assistants: Josh Johnson, Chase Rietcheck, Justin Returning lettermen: 21 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Anderson, Zach Lackey, Thomas Casper Kanden Young, OL/DL, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Jake Soria, Offense: Multiple Wing Defense: Multiple OL, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Kenny Fehrman, OL/DL, 6-2, 240, Returning lettermen: 22 Jr.; Silas Popplewell, TE/DL, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Tayshaun Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense Edgar Soto, RB/DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Koy Kenny, FB/ Washington, WR, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Zander Vargas, RB/S, 5-7, 185, Sr.; Christian Buckman, WR, 5-9, ILB, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Jace Garrison, C, 6-2, 220, Sr.; 160, Sr.; Travese Love, DL, 5-11, 220, Sr.; Hunter Alex Corpus, OT, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Dawson Hudson, OT/DL, 6-1, 210, Jr.; Oscar Martinez, DB, 5-9, 150, Greenlee, DL, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Isaac Hilt, LB, 5-10, GM Jr. Conor Nicholl 195, Sr.; Zane Cornejo LB, 5-10, 200, Sr.

3-6 in 2018 / 4A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division III Coach: Linn Hibbs (4th year, 6-21; 22nd overall, 129-97) Assistants: TD Buck, Lelin George, Zach McDowell, Andrew Brenn, Joe Vargas Offense: Multiple I Defense: Multiple 50 Returning lettermen: 26 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense KC Crandall, QB, 5-7, 144, Sr.; Jake Kaufman, DE/ TE, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Steele Morin, LB/RB, 5-8, 181, Sr.; Zach Phillips, DL/OL, 5-10, 205, Sr.; Chance Price, DB/WR, 5-10, 167, Sr.; Logan Roark, DL/OL, 6-0, 196, Sr.; Conner Woods, DL/OL, 6-1, 192, Sr.; Dalton York, DL/OL, 6-0, 206, Sr. Gallagher Martin

Ulysses went through a devastating tragedy last summer when longtime head football coach and athletic director, Jason Kenny, passed away suddenly on July 24. Kenny was the head football coach for 18 years and posted a record of 135-60. Kenny had served nearly a quarter century with the Tigers. Longtime assistant Rick Cue, who is now starting his 27th year with Ulysses, took over as head coach. Ulysses made a three-win improvement and had to travel across the state for games in the new district format. The Tigers opened with a 43-20 loss to Colby, an eventual 8-2 squad, and then defeated Goodland (62-14) and Hugoton (29-6) before losses at Scott City (47-0) and at home to Pittsburg (41-6). After an open date in week six, Ulysses had to travel to southeast Kansas where they beat Labette County, 35-22. Ulysses next had to travel to Abilene in backto-back weeks, and lost 26-21 before a 28-0 win the following week in the first round of the playoffs. The Tigers closed the season with another long trip to McPherson and fell 48-17. This year the Tigers will host Abilene and Labette County, but will have to travel almost 400 miles to Pittsburg. The Tigers also added a game with Newkirk, Okla., in week six. Ulysses returns five offensive and four defensive starters, including Kenny’s son, Koy, who has started at linebacker since he was a freshman. On offense, Cue expects a more mature unit. “Offensively, we should be a little more mature than we were last year,” Cue said. “We will be stronger and more physical up front with more experience. We had to replace every lineman last season, and we are in much better shape than that coming in to this fall.” The Tigers will have to replace all their receivers, including 6-5, 230 pound tight end Sloan Hayden, who transferred to Eudora where he will play for his brother Sean. “We will need to replace our wide receivers, but we have some guys to choose from,” Cue said. Cue looks for a more physical defense this season and says some young players will need to “step up and breakthrough.” Cue serves as the defensive coordinator for the Tigers, and his expectations for the unit are high. “I fully expect us to fly around the field and make some plays.”

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 93

Class 3A

1. Sabetha 2. Marysville 3. Andale 4. Scott City 5. Topeka Hayden Others: Beloit, Frontenac, Halstead, Hesston, Jeff West, Parsons, Wamego, Wichita Collegiate

By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame In 2017, Sabetha defeated Marysville for the Class 3A state championship. Both squads were surprise entrants into the final contest, and the Bluejays captured a thrilling game with a 7-6 victory. Last year, Sabetha posted its second consecutive Class 3A state title, this time holding off Pratt, 43-42, in overtime on the game’s final play to post a 13-0 record. 2018 marked the first year of the new-look Class 3A as Class 4A, Division II dissolved. The new 48-team classification primarily featured former 3A and 4A-II squads, along with powerhouse Andale, which dropped down from 4A-I. Sabetha enters this season on a 20-game winning streak, including a 36-12 road district victory versus Marysville in Week 4 of last year. This fall could yield the first of two games between Sabetha and Marysville – as the powers will again see each other in District 4 play, and could meet up late in November. Marysville reeled off six straight victories following the Sabetha 2018 loss before a 42-36 double overtime defeat against Galena in the postseason. The Bulldogs have a significant number of returners off an 8-3 squad for head coach Dustin Heuer. In the last two years, Marysville is 20-5 overall, 0-2 versus Sabetha. Marysville and Sabetha headline another loaded classification that features Topeka Hayden and Frontenac in the east, along with Andale (11-1) and Scott City (10-1) in the west. Additionally, Halstead (5-4) and Wichita Collegiate (63) are each expected to make big jumps.

Photo by Jeff Frazell

Atreyau Hornbeak

Photo by Lance Reid

Scott Grider

Mac Brand

KANSAS PREGAME CLASS 3A PRESEASON RANKINGS

12 PLAYERS TO WATCH Photo by Jan Lindhorst

Mac Brand [Andale] 5-11, 190, RB/LB, Sr.; AVCTL-IV Defensive MVP in 2018 Garron Champoux [Marysville] 5-11, 190, LB, Sr.; 144 tackles, 5 TFLs, 5 FFs in 2018 Cale Goodman [Scott City] 5-11, 195, FB/LB, Sr.; All-GWAC First Team LB in 2018 Scott Grider [Halstead] 5-10, 185, RB/DB, Sr.; 1,400 yards rushing, 21 TDs in 2018 Atreyau Hornbeak [Marysville] 6-0, 195, RB, Sr.; 1,170 yards rushing, 17 TDs in in 2018

For Marysville, Brandon Schroedl is back under center after he threw for 1,725 yards with an 18/8 TD/INT ratio. Senior Atreyau Hornbeak has posted back-to-back seasons with more than 1,000 offensive yards and is a three-year starter. Senior Garron Champoux collected 144 tackles for first team all-state honors, and senior Storm Slupianek had 102 stops. Slupianek is also a three-year starter. Marysville permitted just 16.6 points per game, better than its ’17 runner-up squad. Sabetha took key losses, specifically with lineman Elliott Strahm (K-State signing), running back Joe Gruber and linebacker Cauy Rokey, but returns quarterback Gabe Garber, one of the state’s most decorated athletes with two state titles each in football and baseball. Sabetha’s run-heavy offense churned out 312 rushing yards and 38.9 points per contest against the No. 2 schedule in the classification, according to Prep Power Index. Garber threw for 990 yards and rushed for 1,155 with 31 touchdowns accounted for. He is the only one of the Bluejays’ top-six rushers back. Andale was No. 1 in the state for most of the year before a playoff loss to Pratt and finished with a combined score of 553-90. The Indians led 3A in scoring offense and defense per game. Third-year coach Dylan Schmidt has not dropped a regular season contest in his two season as head coach. Andale has six offensive and seven defensive starters back. First team all-state defensive back Scotti Easter returns after he led the team with 96 tackles. Linebacker Mac Brand is also back after first team all-state recognition and league

Here are 12 players to watch in Class 3A this fall:

Cael Johnson [Burlington] 6-0, 165, RB/DB, Sr.: 1,500 career yards, 15 TDs, 175 tkl. Daquan Johnson [Parsons] 5-11, 155, DB/KR, Sr.; 6 INTs, 4 Def. TDs, 2 KR TDs in ’18 Riley Petz [Cheney] 6-1, 160, RB/DB, Sr.; 2,500+ career all-purpose, 25+ TDs Kauli Saili [Jeff West] 5-11, 285, OL/DL, Sr.; 72 tackles, 5 TFLs in 2018 Pene Saili [Jeff West] 6-1, 230, FB/LB, Jr.; 92 tackles in 2018, physical tackler Calvin Stapp [Colby] 5-10, 160, RB/LB, Sr.; All-GWAC First Team RB in 2018 Taybor Vetter [Wamego] 5-9, 155, RB/KR, Sr.; 1,200 all-purpose, explosive KR

Defensive MVP honors. He paced a deep backfield with 764 yards and nine touchdowns. Eli Rowland collected eight yards a carry on 56 attempts. Senior Easton Hunter, who has shared some time at quarterback the last two years, takes over full-time this fall. Scott City allowed just 93 points and took big graduation losses. Parker Gooden started at quarterback the past two seasons and is expected to move to running back this year. SC is a metronomically consistent program with double-digit victories every year but one from ’08-18. Topeka Hayden coach Bill Arnold enters his 20th year as a head coach overall, 13th in the capital city. Hayden finished 7-3 and won highly challenging District 3 over PerryLecompton, Santa Fe Trail, Jefferson West and Wellsville – all five squads finished 4-5 or better and four of the squads had winning records. For Hayden, returning linebacker Will DeVader led the team in tackles. Andrew Schmidtlein anchors an experienced line. Trey Pivarnik delivered 31 catches for 400 yards and four scores. Hayden has won at least seven games for six straight years. Jefferson West no longer has quarterback Cade Ross, who moved to Florida after he started for two years. However, JW returns all three Saili brothers: Kauli, Pene and Danny. Each one is at least 5-11, 230 pounds or more. They helped JW to a three-win improvement. Senior Quinn Neuenswander is expected to take over under center. Halstead features coach Jason Grider and his sons, Scott and Doug, as the top running back and lead lineman, re-

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14 from page 93

spectively. Halstead delivered 292 rushing yards a game last season. Collegiate returns a bulk of its team and brings back former coach Bill Messamore as offensive coordinator under first year head coach Troy Black who replaces long-time coach Mike Gehrer, who retired.

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Connor Allen has earned all-league honors the last two seasons. Collegiate will battle with Andale, and Clearwater – which has standout quarterback Tanner Cash – in District 6. Parsons went 8-3 and won its first playoff game in more than 40 years. DaQuan Johnson is back after a first team all-state DB season. He had 47 tackles, six interceptions, four defensive TDs, two fumble recoveries and a pair of kick return scores. Colby went 8-2 and had its best start in a quarter-century. The Eagles have few returners, although have three of the classification’s top players with all-purpose threat Calvin Stapp, lineman Aaron Kurth (KU offer) and end Hagan Booi. Beloit returns seven starters on both sides of the ball and with a healthy Hudson Gray will try to challenge Scott City.

Above: The Saili brothers – Kauli (#64), Danny (#77) and Pene (not pictured) – will join forces with a host of other experienced returners, including Gavin Schwinn (#54), to try and help Jeff West contend for league and district titles. Left: Marsyville senior linebacker Garron Champoux (#5) will try to lead an experienced Bulldog squad on a deep postseason run and end a two-game losing streak Conor Nicholl is a sports writer from western Kansas to defending state champions Sabetha and returning QB who has covered high school, college and professional Gabe Garber. (Left: Photo by Jan Lindhorst; Above: Photo courtesy Jeff West Yearbook) teams across the state for more than 15 years.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

ANDALE

Entering his third year as head coach at Andale, Dylan Schmidt has yet to lose a regular season game with the Indians. In 2017, Schmidt led Andale to a 12-0 start before succumbing to Bishop Miege in the 4A-Division I State Championship. Last season, Andale began the year 11-1 before falling to Pratt in an epic 3A SubState battle, 21-19. With six returning starters on offense and seven on defense, there’s a chance Andale enters the playoffs undefeated once again. The Indians are graduating a large senior class of 18 players, but Schmidt says he has around 75 out for football this season and for the Indians the mission is always to reload. Last season, the Andale defense allowed 7.5 points per game, best in the 48 team 3A classification. The most Andale allowed on defense all season was 22 points on Nov. 2 to Chapman in the playoffs, and the Indians won that game by 44 points, 66-22. Additionally, the Andale defense posted six shutouts, including a streak of five straight that lasted from Sept. 7 through Oct. 5. Defensively, the team’s leading tackler, senior Scotti Easter, returns after recording 96 stops last season. Easter’s efforts earned him first-team AllState defensive back honors. The Indians also return the AVCTL IV Defensive MVP in senior linebacker Mac Brand. In addition to being a first-team All-State linebacker, Brand led the team with 764 rushing yards and nine touchdowns at running back last season. The Indians also return junior running back Eli Rowland, who averaged eight yards a carry on 56 attempts. While Andale graduates quarterback Ethan Baalmann, expect senior Easton Hunter to step in with minimal drop off. Hunter was named to the AllAVCTL IV second-team as a defensive back. Schmidt says he is concerned with the lack of size in the trenches, but look for senior Carson Fair to anchor both lines.

BAXTER SPRINGS

According to head coach Tim Parish, Baxter Springs’ 2-7 record did not accurately reflect how competitive his team was last year. The Lions played tough teams close, but lacked depth to compete for a full four quarters. Replacing three-year starting quarterback Trey White is a big question mark for the Lions to answer, but with six returning starters on offense and eight on defense, Parish is optimistic. “Our team grew closer as the season progressed,” Parish said. “We endured a tough stretch of games, but our players never gave up, and they continued to play to the best of their abilities.” With the departure of White, Baxter Springs loses its leader. Parish says senior wide receiver/ defensive end Clayton Haake will fill that role. “You can count on him to be early, and you can count on him to leave exhausted,” Parish said. “He leads by example.” Running back Kain McCulley is expected to lead the team in rushing, while Haake and AllCNC tight end Zach Hill will lead the offense. Parish says the QB job is open, but senior Kyler Reece looks to be the early front runner. Whoever wins the quarterback job will be asked to improve an offense that averaged six points a game and was shut out five times. “We have to be able to score points, we were not consistent,” Parish said. “We have to keep everything simple so that everyone from the starter to the third string player knows what to do.”

2-7 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 3A Crawford Neosho Cherokee League Coach: Tim Parish (6th year, 14-31) Assistants: Russell Burr, Tim Yeargain Offense: Diamond I Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 8 Defense Zach Hill, TE/DE, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Clayton Haake, 11-1 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 3A WR/DE, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Kain McCulley, RB/LB, Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division IV 6-2, 200, Jr.; Rudy Sanell, OL/DL, 5-8, 250, Sr.; Coach: Dylan Schmidt (3rd year, 23-2; 4th overall, 26-8) Assistants: Tim Fairchild, Ted Easter, Jeff Francisco Garcia, DL, 5-11, 270, Sr.; Peyton HerGeist, Derek Deegan, Mike Blasi, Tyler Ryan, Chris renbruck, OL/DL, 5-8, 180, Jr.; Dawson Graves, Joly, Jordan Ungles Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 OL/DL, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Salfel Felix, DL, 5-9, 245, Sr. Returning lettermen: 21 Gallagher Martin Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Scotti Easter, WR/DB, Sr.; Eli Clouse, K, Sr.; Caden Parthemer, LB, Jr.; Easton Hunter, QB/DB, Jr.; Eli Rowland, RB/DB, Jr.; Mac Brand, RB/LB, Sr.; Creighton Camp, OL, Sr.; Carson Fair, OL/DL, Sr. Gallagher Martin

Quality Healthcare Close to Home

Beloit has an experienced group coming back with seven returning offensive starters. They need to replace a pair of offensive linemen, but return QB Hudson Gray. He was enjoying a strong year before he suffered a season-ending injury in Week 3. At that point, Beloit was 2-1 and averaging 38.7 ppg. Gray completed 26 of 42 passes for 485 yards with a 6/0 TD/INT ratio and rushed for 144 yards and two TDs. Defensively, Beloit returns seven starters from a group that was No. 20 out of 48 teams in 3A scoring defense. “We should be really solid on defense again,” Gober said. Carson Cox and Grant Arasmith step in at running back and wide receiver. Arasmith took over for Gray at QB after the injury and had 95 carries for 504 yards and seven TDs. Vincent Palen returns at wide receiver after a 10 catch, 239 yard, five TD season. Beloit returns three o-linemen and experience on D. Cox led the team with 82 tackles with six TFLs. Gober believes Beloit can be “extremely competitive” in district play. “We have a few new additions and young guys who are going to step in and be productive football players this fall,” Gober said. Beloit finished third in District 8 behind Scott City and Colby at 3-2, and ahead of Concordia, Goodland and Russell. Beloit went 2-1 in NCAA play and defeated Hugoton in the first round of the playoffs, 28-0. In the second round, Beloit lost to Scott City, 34-7, its second loss to the Beavers. Johnson was first team all-league both ways, while Cox was first team all-league linebacker. Palen, one of the state’s best basketball players, was first team all-league defensive back. Gray, even with the injury, earned second team all-league QB. Freshman Grady Seyfert is expected to be a key player at 6-foot, 240 pounds. Senior Tanner Dougherty (5-10, 220) could also emerge as a key lineman. 6-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A North Central Activities Association Coach: Brad Gober (3rd year, 12-7) Assistants: Kevin Harris, Brock McMillan, Garry Lowry, Casey Seyfert, Eric Tate Offense: Pro Gun Defense: 4-2-5 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Creighton Johnson, OL/DL, 6-1, 240, Sr.; Carson Cox, RB/LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Grant Arasmith, RB/LB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Vincent Palen, WR/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Hudson Gray, QB/DB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Trase McQueen, OL/DL, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Lucas Mong, TE/LB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Kyler Vahle, WR/DL, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Braden Burks, OL/LB, 5-9, 190, So.; Brennan Walker, WR/DL, 6-2, 170, So. Conor Nicholl

touchdown a game. The offense sputtered down the stretch and failed to top 24 points the rest of the way. The defense, however, continued to be a strength for the Bullpups, although Galena and Parsons did combine for 76 points. Caney Valley ranked 23rd out of 48 teams in 3A, according to PrepPowerIndex. The Bullpups had the benefit of playing the 42nd easiest schedule in 3A, but with Galena and Parsons, the Bullpups will not be able to coast in 2019. Veteran coach Criss Davis, son of legendary former Sedan head coach Les Davis, continues to run a successful program at Caney Valley. 6-3 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A Tri-Valley League Coach: Criss Davis Assistants: N/A

Gallagher Martin

110 W Main • Beloit, KS • 785-534-1111 www.cunninghamtelephoneandcable.com

After missing the playoffs the past two seasons, Santa Fe Trail returned to the postseason in the newlook format for Class 3A last year. Once again, the Chargers found themselves in a brutally tough district, but after dropping their first two games rallied to win three straight to close district play, including big wins over Wellsville and Jefferson West, the latter a 33-29 victory that clinched a fifth straight winning season. In order to keep that streak going, 10th-year coach Jayson Duncan will have to almost completely reload after graduation took a major toll. Only two starters return each way for the Chargers, giving Duncan one of his greenest teams in terms of varsity experience. Among the losses were leading rusher and tackler, Will Herren, a first-team All-Class 3A selection who ran for 1,242 yards and 21 touchdowns and also had 75 tackles. Four other players who earned All-Pioneer League honors are also gone, including first-teamers Otis Costlow and Carter Greenfield. Duncan’s run-heavy Wing T offense may open up a little more this year with the only skill player back offensively senior quarterback Andrew Berckefeldt. He threw for 961 yards and eight touchdowns last year and in two years as a starter has thrown for 1,634 yards and 15 scores. Berckefeldt showed some ability to run as a sophomore, gaining 244 yards on 46 carries, but had just 46 yards last year. With the ground game being turned over to McClain Weekley (318 yards) and Zach Baker (90

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BURLINGTON

Page 95

After a breakout season in 2017 in which Burlington shared the Pioneer League title and posted a 7-4 record, the key to following it up in 2018 was going to be how well the Wildcats could fil two big voids. The most noticeable of those was replacing standout QB Connor Jeffers, who amassed more than 2,700 total yards in 2017. Perhaps just as big, however, was replacing every starter on the offensive line. Burlington wasn’t quite able to match its production from 2017, but the pieces fit together well enough for the Wildcats to post a third straight winning season, going 5-4. They opened the season with a resounding 42-8 win over Council Grove and also knocked off perennial 3A power Wellsville and finished 3-2 in league play before the season ended with a 33-6 loss to Frontenac in the first round of the playoffs. Graduation didn’t hit as hard this time around with six starters back on each side of the ball. If line play was a huge question mark going into last season, it’s a huge plus going into 2019 with four seniors back across the front wall, led by first-team all-leaguer Parker Meats and second-teamer Seth Williams. With a cohesive unit already in place up front, expect senior running back Cael Johnson to have an even bigger year this season. The standout wrestler has rushed for 500-plus yards each of the past two seasons as a backfield complement in Coach John Petrie’s quarterback-centric offense, tallying six touchdowns as a sophomore and five as a junior. Last year, he complemented leading rusher Brannon Nordstedt, who finished with 886 yards and 13 TDs. But as the primary returning weapon, Johnson could become more of a focal point, especially if he moves into the vacant QB slot. Junior Braden Sloyer is the only other returner who contributed in the backfield, rushing for 219 yards and two TDs. Sloyer was a much bigger factor defensively last year, leading the team with 96 tackles. Johnson added 76 and Meats had 47, giving the unit a strong presences at every level. Johnson also picked off four passes for the second straight year. 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A / Pioneer League Coach: John Petrie (4th year, 17-12) Assistants: Tim Johnson, Justin Logan, Blake Higgins Offense: Single Wing Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Cael Johnson, RB/DB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Brennen Brown, TE/DE, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Devon Wonser, OL/DL, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Keegen Kuhlman, OL/DL, 6-1, 250, Sr.; Seth Williams, OL/DL, 6-1, 240, Sr.; Blayne Wilson, TE/LB, 6-0, 150, Sr.; Parker Meats, OL/DL, 6-0, 235, sr.; Braden Sloyer, RB/LB, 6-0, 185, Jr. BM

CARBONDALE-SANTA FE TRAIL

CANEY VALLEY

Caney Valley has now made the playoffs nine straight years, but the Bullpups were not able to make it out of the first round in 2018. Caney Valley ended its season with a 27-7 loss to Prairie View after a 6-2 regular season. The Bullpups went 3-2 in 3A District 1. Outside of Galena, who went 11-1 and 5-0 in district, the next three teams all went 3-2 in district. Of those three 3-2 teams, Caney Valley had the worst point differential at positive two. Because of that, the Bullpups had to play district-champion Prairie View in the first round. Caney Valley’s two district losses were uncompetitive — an 18-point loss to Galena and a 20-point loss to Parsons. Caney Valley began the year 4-0 with wins over Cherryvale, Eureka, Neodesha, and Columbus. During that span, the offense averaged 37.5 points per game and the defense held opponents to under a

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yards, 2 TDs), Berckefeldt may have to carry a bigger load, at least early on. The only other returning starters are linemen Evan Dean and Will Rhoades. Dean was first-team allleague defensively, tying for third on the team with 51 tackles, and has started since his freshman year. The good news for Duncan is that many of the new faces to the Chargers’ starting units will be seniors who have bided their time in the system, particularly defensively. Trail also has a big weapon in the kicking game in sophomore Blake Buessing, who was a first-team all-leaguer last year after making 19 of 25 extra-point kicks and both field goal attempts. The Chargers were solid defensively last year, allowing only Marysville to score more than 30 points. They were a one-point loss to Prairie View in the season opener away from going undefeated in league play and winning at least a share of the title for the third straight year. 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A / Pioneer League Coach: Jayson Duncan (10th year, 38-50) Assistants: Bob Hug, Reagan Erickson, Don Herren, Denver Ramsey, Nick Baker Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 2 Defense Andrew Berckefeldt, QB, 5-11, 187, Sr.; Evan Dean, DL/OL, 6-3, 295, SR.; Will Rhoades, OG, 6-1, 218, Jr.; McClain Weekley, S, 6-0, 178, Jr. Brent Maycock

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

CHAPMAN

It is hard to find a more impressive turnaround than what Kurt Webster did in his second year at Chapman High School. After going 1-8 in his first year, Webster led the Fighting Irish to a 7-3 record and a 4-0 finish in the NCKL. Two of Chapman’s three losses came by one score — a pair of eightpoint losses to Smoky Valley and Halstead. Webster will face challenges this year replacing quarterback Izek Jackson, fullback Dalton Harvey and lineman Kobey Stroud. But even with only four returning starters on offense and three on defense, Webster is setting the bar high for 2019. “Our goals for the season are to win the league, win the district, and win in the playoffs,” Webster said. Chapman will need to find replacements for their top-two rushers in Jackson and Harvey. Harvey was a monster for the Fighting Irish last year, rushing for 1,322 yards and 15 TDs, while Jackson tallied 880 rushing yards and 12 rushing TDs. The Butler Community College commit also threw for 328 yards and five touchdowns. Chapman won’t be without talent, however. Stroud’s younger brother, senior lineman Kel Stroud, has DI potential. At 6-5, 265, he currently has several FCS and DII offers, but verbablly committed to FCS South Dakota in June. Webster is also very high on Zach Ferris, who returns after earning honorable mention All-League recognition for his play on the o-line last season while also tallying 55 stops from his middle linebacker spot. QB Chance Liebau, running back Austin Litzinger and fullback Lawrence Smith will be among the leading contenders to replace the production of Jackson and Harvey. And Trevor Erickson, a junior transfer from Georgia who previously attended Chapman Middle School, will also compete for the QB job. According to Webster, the keys to success in 2019 are simple. “Running the football and stopping the run effectively will be our keys to success,” Webster said.

CHENEY

Shelby Wehrman has now seen both ends of the spectrum entering his third year as coach at Cheney. In 2017, Wehrman guided the Cardinals to a nine-win season and a playoff win over Marion. Last year, Cheney started 0-5 before finishing with a 2-7 record. The Cardinals faced a brutal schedule but were competitive in most games. Cheney also started freshmen and sophomores on both sides of the ball. With 12 returning starters, Wehrman believes his team can finish near the top of the Central Plains League. For the Cardinals to do that, Riley Petz and Seth Teague will need big years. Petz has been the starting RB since his sophomore year and rushed for 1,340 yards and 19 TDs in 2017. Petz took on a different role last year, rushing for 400 yards and five TDs while recording 517 receiving yards and another TD. On defense Petz had four interceptions and on special teams he returned a punt for a touchdown. There’s very little Petz can’t do. “Riley is a tough and explosive player who makes things happen when he is around the ball,” Wehrman said. Teague is also a running back, but makes his presence felt at linebacker, where he led the team with 97 tackles. “He is a strong competitor and a quiet leader,” Wehrman said. “The Cardinals will depend on him more this year.” Tyler Blasi and Zac Block are two additional seniors that Wehrman believes he can count on for leadership. Outside those four seniors, Cheney will be counting on production from underclassmen. Juniors Braden Black and Landen Ayers are two offensive linemen that Wehrman is high on. Ayers started every game last season, while Wehrman believes Black can be an all-league player. Cheney is unproven at quarterback, but sophomore Harrison Voth is a returning letterman at the position.

2-7 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 3A Central Plains League Coach: Shelby Wehrman (3rd year, 11-10) Assistants: Lee Baldwin, Bill Block, Kevin Schultz 7-3 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 North Central Kansas League Returning lettermen: 27 Coach: Kurt Webster (3rd year, 8-11) Returning starters: 9 Offense, 7 Defense Assistants: Clint Merritt, Brian Sweet, Wade Logan Bartlett, WR/DB, 5-7, 135, Jr.; Zac Block, TE/ Chamberlin Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-4, 3-5 DB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Riley Petz, RB/DB, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Returning lettermen: 7 Quincy Thomas, DB, 6-0, 150, So.; Jonas Abernathy, Returning starters: 4 Offense, 3 Defense LB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Marcus Peintner, WR, 6-1, 155, Kel Stroud, OL/DL, 6-5, 265, Sr.; Zach Ferris, OL/LB, Jr.; Zane Smith, OL/DL, 5-6, 245, Sr.; Seth Teague, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Austin Litzinger, RB/DB, 5-9, 145, Sr.; LB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Braden Black, OL, 6-1, 240, Jr.; Chance Liebau, QB/LB/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Lawrence Landen Ayers, OL, 6-1, 220, Jr.; Ethan Cokely, WR, Smith, FB/TE/LB, 5-11, 165, Jr. Gallagher Martin 6-1, 150, Jr.; Tyler Blasi, TE, 6-0, 205, Sr.. GM

CLAY CENTER COMMUNITY

The transition to first-year head coach Ted Brown in 2018 wasn’t as smooth as Clay Center would have hoped. After making the playoffs seven times in Todd Rice’s 10 years as coach, the Tigers couldn’t secure a top-four district finish in Class 3A’s new-look format. Overall, the Tigers went just 2-7 with one of the wins coming against Wichita Trinity in the season finale in a cross-district game between teams that missed the playoffs. The only other win came in district play, a 27-21 victory over winless Rock Creek. With a year under their belts with Brown’s systems, the Tigers are hoping to turn things back around and return to their winning ways. It won’t hurt hat a year after inheriting just one returning starter, Brown will have plenty of experience back this season. Clay Center returns nine starters on offense and eight on defense, which should allow the Tigers to hit the ground running. An improved ground attack will be a big key to the strides Clay Center can make this year. Despite a run-heavy offensive scheme, the Tigers only managed 1,630 yards and 14 TDs on the ground a year ago (181.1 per game). Leading rusher Logan Mullin had just 417 yards and Cooper Glavan’s six touchdowns were a team-high. Both of those guys are back with Glavan manning the quarterback spot and throwing for 482 yards and four scores last year. The rushing attack only lost Dylan Moon (334 yards) and the biggest holes will be up front where only two starters are back. Though two of the top-three tacklers have graduated, leading tackler Jake Ferguson is back. His 69 stops were 25 more than anyone else on the team. Glavan was a first-team All-North Central Kansas League pick in the secondary and had 35 tackles. The defense will have to make significant strides as well after giving up 34.5 points per game and holding only one team to less than 20. 2-7 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 3A North Central Kansas League Coach: Ted Brown (2nd year, 2-7; 9th overall, 44-33) Assistants: Marc Henry, JD Lane, Phil Kasper, Christian Johnston, Ben Last Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 8 Defense Cooper Glavan, QB/DB, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Jake Ferguson, RB/DB, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Ethan Straub, WR/DB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Dawson Humphrey, LB/RB, 5-10, 195, SR.; Tillman Hartner, DL, 5-11, 260, Jr.; Logan Mullin, RB, 5-10, 200, Jr.; Tanner Demars, WR/DB, 5-10, 150, Jr.; Blake Frederick, RB/DB, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Ryan Benfer, OL, 6-1, 245, So.; Morgan Siebold, OL, 6-3, 250, Jr.; Keegan McDonald, DL, 5-10, 205, Jr. BM

CLEARWATER

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A case could be made that Jeremy Scheufler overachieved in his first year as head coach at Clearwater High School when his Fighting Indians went 4-5 against a solid schedule. Clearwater returned two starters on defense and zero on offense in 2018, yet the Indians were a TD away from beating Wichita Collegiate and finishing the season above .500 for the first time since 2013. With the returning talent Clearwater has entering this season, the bar has been raised. “This season, after a productive offseason, our team will have to work to go from average to elite,” Scheufler said. “[We] will try to contend with the powers of class 3A and the Ark Valley Division IV elites Andale, Mulvane, and Wellington.” The Clearwater offense has a chance to put up huge numbers, and junior quarterback Tanner Cash is a big reason why after he broke school records with 1,286 rushing yards and 25 total touchdowns. Cash also threw for 797 yards and only threw two interceptions in his first year as starting quarterback. Clearwater also returns three receivers and one tight end who combined for 700 yards and nine touchdowns. Add in the fact that Clearwater returns four offensive linemen, including all-league left tackle Kip Burge, and the Fighting Indians have serious potential on the offensive side of the ball. But don’t expect Clearwater to simply outscore its opponents each week. The Indians return nine starters on D, including a trio of all-league linebackers in Nolan Streit, Denton Demel, and Jack Rausch. Streit led the team with 120 tackles, while Demel and Rausch combined for 155 tackles last year. Clearwater also returns five d-backs, headlined by Drake Beatty who had two interceptions last year. Beatty is also an all-league punter, while Conner Walcher earned honorable mention as a kicker. 4-5 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division IV Coach: Jeremy Scheufler (2nd year, 4-5) Assistants: Tyler Hampton, Jim Frickey, Chuck Schrader, Kylan Ward Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense Tanner Cash, QB/DB, 6-1, 195, Jr.; Kip Burge, LT/ DE, 6-5, 200, Sr.; Jack Rausch, TE/LB, 6-3, 210, Jr.; Drake Beatty, WR/P/DB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Lane Pierce, WR/DB, 5-7, 135, Jr.; Trace Tjaden, TE/LB, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Taylor Currie, WR/DB, 6-1, 140, Sr.; Nolan Streit, FB/LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Denton Demel, LB/FB, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Austin Carlson, C/LB/DL, 6-1, 215, Jr.; Karsyn Pinion, RT/DL, 6-3, 240, Sr.; Brock Demel, G/DL, 6-2, 320, Jr.; Dalen Ankerholz, WR/DB, 6-1, 155, Jr.; Conner Walcher, K, 5-8, 145, So. Gallagher Martin

COLBY

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Two years ago, Colby opened 4-0, including a win against Ulysses, the first time the Eagles had defeated the Tigers since 1992. Colby went 2-4 down the stretch and finished 6-4. Last year, the Eagles opened 6-0, including a 38-34 home win versus Holcomb in Week 3, and went 8-2. It marked the Eagles’ best start since 1990. Colby ended a nine-game losing streak versus the Longhorns. Colby trailed 34-22 before a big comeback. The Eagles finished district runner-up to Scott City losing to the Beavers, 35-12, and lost to eventual state runner-up Pratt, 33-16, in the second round of the playoffs. Prior to the season, Colby shifted versatile running back Jordan Schippers, a Western Illinois signee, to quarterback, one of several positional changes last year. Schippers enjoyed a Kpreps all-state season with 28 tackles, five interceptions and two fumble recoveries from his safety position and 524 passing yards, 812 rushing yards and 23 offensive scores accounted for as quarterback. Defensive end Xavier Slaven (13 TFLs) also committed to Fort Hays after spending three seasons as a starter along the Eagles’ offense and defensive lines. If Colby is continue their progress under third year coach Rees McKinney the Eagles will need to replace seven total multi-season starters, but the cupboard is not completely bare.

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Colby senior lineman Aaron Kurth enters his third season as a starter and the 6-6, 285 pounder has emerged as one of the state’s top prospects and holds offers from Kansas, South Dakota and Western Illinois. Kurth is one of the state’s top shot putters as well. Senior Calvin Stapp is a shifty runner and physical defender who earned all-league recognition on offense, defense and special teams after he rushed for 968 yards and 17 scores with four interceptions. Stapp had 13 returns for 245 yards with a punt return score. Junior Hagan Booi delivered 92 carries for 594 yards and seven scores with nine tackles for loss (six sacks) and is a state wrestling runner-up. Colby scored 38.8 points a game and permitted 18.1 last season. An improvement from 27.6 points scored per game and 23 allowed in 2017. 8-2 in 2018 / 5-1 in district / 3A Great West Activities Conference Coach: Rees McKinney (3rd year, 14-6; 4th overall, 19-10) Assistants: Matt Sims, Brad Wildeman, Todd Kane, Zane Winger Offense: Pistol Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Aaron Kurth, OL/DL, 6-6, 285, Sr.; Calvin Stapp, RB/ LB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Hagan Booi, FB/DL, 6-1, 195, Jr.; Mason Wright, WR, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

COLUMBUS

After 12 years as an assistant, Blake Burns gets his chance to lead the Columbus football program. Burns will be taking over a team that finished 1-8 last year, but with eight returning starters on offense and seven on defense, there’s nowhere to go but up. “If we can execute at a high level, finish drives and games and work daily to improve, we will give ourselves a great chance at success,” Burns said. The loss of Shawn Robinson is a big blow for the Titans. He led the team with 575 rushing yards and six TDs; he also had 193 receiving yards and was the team’s leading kick returner. On defense, Robinson was fourth on the team with 53 tackles. Senior Grayson Walden will be looked to for production at running back. Walden had 286 rushing yards on 73 carries with two touchdowns last year. Senior quarterback Patrick Cassidy will also need a big year for the Titans to have success. He threw for 616 yards and five touchdowns last season. The Titans also return their top receiver in senior Clay Saporito who caught 21 passes for 234 yards. Defensively, Gabe Martin had a phenomenal freshman season leading the team with 93 total tackles. At 5-8, 155 pounds, Martin has a bright future ahead of him the bigger and stronger he becomes. Saporito and Walden are also important parts of the defense; Walden had 59 tackles, including 46 solo, while Saporito finished with 58 tackles and led the team with two interceptions. “Our goals are to do things the right way on and off the field, create favorable opportunities for ourselves in all phases of the game, and work hard,” Burns said. 1-8 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 3A Crawford Neosho Cherokee League Coach: Blake Burns (1st year) Assistants: Troy Haraughty, Heath Perry, Matt Crain Offense: Spread Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Patrick Cassidy, QB/DB, 5-10, 140, Sr.; Clay Saporito, WR/DB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Grayson Walden, RB/LB, 5-9, 171, Sr.; Kaden Crain, WR/DB, 5-10, 130, WR/DB, Sr.; Lynn Shallenburger, WR/DB, 6-0, 143, Jr.; Matt Robnett, WR/DB, 5-5, 120, Sr.; Trent Smith, RB/LB, 5-7, 140, So.; Gabe Martin, RB/LB, 5-8, 155, So.; Alex Bole, OL/DL, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Kody Schalk, OL/DL, 6-1, 215, So.; Bryce Davis, OL/DL, 5-11, 280, Sr. Gallagher Martin

CONCORDIA

Outside of replacing QB Dylean Reed, new coach Jordan Echer has some nice weapons to work with at Concordia High School. Echer spent last year as head coach at Russell. Prior to that, he spent two years as head coach at Leon-Bluestem. In his first year with the Panthers, Echer is focused on establishing a culture of doing things the right way. “Our biggest focus going into 2019 will be our ability to do little things right and compete at everything we do,” Echer said. “Our ability to do little things correctly will lead to victories on the feld and in the classroom.” Concordia saw a glimpse of the future last year when Hunter Schroeder and Keyan Miller shared carries as the primary running backs. Schroeder, now a junior, rushed for 635 yards and 10 TDs, while Miller ran for 443 yards and five TDs as a freshman. Only three Panthers caught a touchdown pass last year, but all three return. Replacing three o-linemen will be the biggest question mark, outside of QB. “Our offensive keys will be our ability to put our kids in positions to be successful,” Echer said. “Our offense will allow us to move kids around and get the ball to multiple players.” The Panthers return the majority of their production on defense. Schroeder led the team with 74 tackles from his linebacker position, while senior linebacker Ivon Owen and junior safety Wyatt Trost had 55 and 54 tackles respectively. Also, a healthy Chas Carlgren, a 6-3, 215 pound junior, is expected to be an impact player on offense (TE/HB) and as a LB. In year one, Echer is focused on getting the Concordia community to buy in. “We want community members and alumni to know that they are a part of the Panther football program,” Echer said.

FRONTENAC

After a heartbreaking 21-20 loss to Caney Valley in week six last year, Frontenac sat at 3-3 and was in danger of its first losing season in the Mark Smith era. But the Raiders rallied for three straight wins heading into the playoffs before falling to Galena. This year, Frontenac is experienced on both sides of the ball and will carry some momentum into 2019. “We have a lot of returning players from last year that understand our system and have gained a lot of varsity experience,” Smith said. “Our kids believe that we can make some noise in a tough district and loaded 3A division.” Smith expects his team to be good in the running game and along the front line. The Raiders return all five offensive linemen — four of them seniors — as well as running backs Alex Johnson and Ryan Raio. “Winning the turnover battle and the line of scrimmage are always two big keys for our program,” Smith said. “We must be able to run the ball more effectively this season.” Smith also knows he has a reliable defense that allowed just 14.3 points per game last season, which included two shutouts. The Frontenac offense, which was shut out twice and failed to score double digit points four times, is hoping for more production this year. Along with the entire o-line and two running backs, the Raiders return senior QB Jake Beckmann. “We played a lot of kids last year because of injury, and I believe it will pay off in the long run,” Smith said. “It will be exciting having so many starters and key players return this year.”

6-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A Crawford Neosho Cherokee League Coach: Mark Smith (8th year, 53-23) 3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 3A Assistants: John Palumbo, Bill Sullivan, Brady Hill, North Central Kansas League Troy Morris, Ryan Varsolona, Kaleb Terlip Coach: Jordan Echer (1st year; 4th overall, 8-19) Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2-5 Assistants: Scott Coppoc, John Hake, Josh Pounds, Returning lettermen: 24 Rowe Hinkle, Doug Thoman Returning starters: 7 Offense, 8 Defense Offense: Spread Option Defense: 3-4 Jake Beckmann, QB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Alex Johnson, Returning lettermen: 14 RB/WS, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Ryan Raio, RB/SS, 5-10, Returning starters: 6 Offense, 8 Defense 180, Sr.; Kaleb Kroenke, C, 6-3, 195, Sr.; Caleb Hunter Schroeder, RB/LB, 5-9, 175, Jr.; Keyan Miller, Hemby, OG, 5-8, 185, Sr.; Kolby Bevins, OT, 6-1, RB/LB, 5-6, 175, So.; Wyatt Trost, WR/S, 6-0, 165, 240, Sr.; Buddy Sexton, OG, 5-9, 190, Sr.; Cruz Blair, Jr.; Dylan Thoman, WR/CB, 5-11, 145, Jr.; Nathan OT, 6-0, 210, So.; Alex Storey, TE/DE, 6-1, 210, Lawerence, LT/DT, 6-2, 270, Sr.; Dalton Owen, RT/ Jr.; Drew Bollinger, LB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Cale Bridwell, DE, 6-1, 230, So.; Ivon Owen, LB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; DE/K, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Collin McCartney, DE, 6-1, 185, Tristan Mikesell, WR/CB, 5-8, 165, Sr. GM So.; Lane Franklin, DT, 6-1, 210, So.; Brant Chance, CB/S, 5-10, 155 Sr.; Trey Strahan, FS, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Ty Gates, P, 6-0, 170, Jr. Gallagher Martin

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The Galena Bulldogs were nearly untouchable last season and enjoyed their second straight 11-1 season. Galena was not challenged during the regular season — an 18-point win at Caney Valley was the closest game the Bulldogs played until the playoffs. Galena continued the momentum in the playoffs, knocking off Anderson County and Frontenac with ease before squeaking out a double overtime victory at Marysville to advance to the 3A semifinals. The Bulldogs gave everything they had, but fell to eventual repeat state champion Sabetha, 21-0. With quarterback JC Shelton gone to graduation, the Bulldogs may take a slight step back, but the talent is still there to make another run in 3A. “We are going to have to grow up quickly and improve,” coach Beau Sarwinski said. “It is time for some of our juniors to step up and some sophomores will have to as well. Our kids understand it’s a process of hard work and playing for each other.” The Bulldogs know they can rely on all-state lineman Dylan Fields on both sides of the ball. Fellow senior offensive lineman Rico Gordon will help lead the way up front, while junior defensive end Deacon Henson will provide more experience in the trenches. On offense, expect to see Logan Henderson take over at quarterback and Nick Sarwinski to lead the way at running back; both Henderson and Sarwinski are starting linebackers as well. Galena may be inexperienced in some areas on the field, but Sarwinski doesn’t want people to confuse inexperience with weakness. “Our biggest challenge last season was we had an offensive line that was unknown; again, we have a solid group of seniors who many have waited their time because of solid kids in front of them,” Sarwinski said. “It is their time to step up and compete.” Galena continues to set the bar high. “Our hope is to compete for a district title and a chance to play for a state championship,” Sarwinski said. 11-1 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 3A Cherokee Neosho Crawford League Coach: Beau Sarwinski (13th year, 100-31) Assistants: Derik Hunt, JC Dawes, Jacoby Martin, Zach Shockey, Dennis Outt Offense: Wing-T Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 11 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Dylan Fields, OL/DL, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Rico Gordon, OL/ DL, 6-2, 240, Sr.; Logan Henderson, TE/RB/QB/LB, 6-5, 170, Sr.; Nick Sarwinski, RB/LB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Deacon Henson, DE, 5-9, 160, Jr. Gallagher Martin

GARNETT-ANDERSON COUNTY

If Logan Pegram can translate a fraction of the success he experienced as a player into coaching, Anderson County made the right hire during the offseason. Pegram, a 2007 graduate of Silver Lake, helped lead his team to four state championship appearances, including the 2006 3A state title. Pegram later went on to start 22 games on the offensive line for Northern Illinois during his college career, and now he has his first head coaching job at the high school level. Anderson County is coming off a 2-7 season in which the Bulldogs began and ended the season with three-game losing streaks. While the Bulldogs haven’t had a winning season since 2010, Pegram is ready to lay the foundation for change. “Our goals for the season are to establish culture, build a solid foundation for our program, and commit to the weight room,” Pegram said. Both Bo Dilliner and Gavin Wolken saw action at the quarterback position last year. Wolken, a senior, will likely be under center while Dilliner, a junior, can play wide receiver. Both Wolken and Dilliner will also be competing for time at strong safety on defense. Replacing Logan Allen at running back will be a huge priority for the Bulldogs, but with three returning offensive linemen, a returning fullback, and a returning tight end, whoever wins the job will be running behind an experienced line. Like the offense, the Bulldogs return six starters on defense. Anderson County returns two starters on the defensive line, at linebacker, and in the

secondary. Pegram will look to establish a physical brand of football for his team in year one. Like any good lineman, he understands the importance of running the ball and stopping the run. “It is vital that we improve our team chemistry while playing for our teammates,” Pegram said. “We need to be able to run the ball and stop the run and win the turnover battle every week.” 2-7 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 3A / Pioneer League Coach: Logan Pegram (1st year) Assistants: Lucas Catloth, AC Russell, Terry Messenger, Matt Stevenson Offense: Power Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Bo Dilliner, QB/WR/S, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Gavin Wolken, QB/S, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Dallas Higginbotham, OL/ DL, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Josh Stifter, OL/DL, 6-4, 200, Jr.; Justin Stifter, FB/LB, 6-4, 200, Jr.; Nick Lybarger, OL, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Bronson Sparks, TE/DL, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Colton Palmer, LB, 5-10, 190, Jr. GM

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

HALSTEAD

Halstead was dominant in four of the their five 2018 wins, outscoring those four opponents 188-45, but those four teams recorded just four total wins last fall. But don’t take that as evidence the Dragons were GOODLAND, KS 785-899-3661 in the bottom half of 3A, Halstead was more than 1104 West Hwy 110424West | TollHwy Free:24877-320-4020 | 785-890-7575 | 785-890-7575 competitive in losses to state runner-up Pratt (32-16), consistent winner Hesston (38-22) and 10-win Good Luck Cowboys! Dine-in, Carryout, & Delivery Smoky Valley (20-14). The Dragons also found a way to upend 7-3 Chapman 30-22 in overtime. As the fourth place finisher in a loaded district the GIRARD Dragons met perennial power Andale in the playoff Girard had a one-win improvement from 4-6 to Goodland has posted 3-6, 3-6, 3-6, 2-7 and 1-8 opener losing 35-0. 5-4 under second-year coach Neil Philpot, a former records the last five years. The Cowboys last winning Now, a roster with plenty of returning talent could Pittsburg State QB, PSU assistant and Ottawa mark was a 6-4 record in 2013. Goodland has not lead the Dragons back to 3A’s upper echelon under University offensive coordinator. Girard went W-L-W- captured more than six victories in a season since sixth year coach Jason Grider. L-W-L-W for the first seven weeks of the year. ’04. Last year, Goodland opened the fall with six In 2019, Grider will count on five returning all-conGirard opened with a 26-0 road win at Baxter straight losses before a 29-26 win against Russell. ference players, including two that join him at the Springs, and lost, 36-2, at Galena. The Trojans beat “Staying healthy throughout the season,” Topliff dinner table after practice. Columbus, 23-16, at home in Week 3, and then said of team keys. “We need some of our younger On offense returning All-CKL running back Scott lost 34-12 at Burlington in Week 4. In Week 5, the players to get up to speed quickly to help provide Grider, a senior, will run behind junior o-lineman Trojans beat Anderson County, 35-21 and then fell depth. Positive turnover ratio. Daily commitment to Doug Grider out of their father’s Veer offense. Scott 14-6 to Prairie View in Week 6. After a 21-13 road getting better.” rushed for nearly 1,500 yards for the Dragons last win at Iola, Girard beat Osawatomie, 43-0, at home. The Cowboys scored 11.7 points per game and season with 21 scores, a performance good for multiGirard ended the season with a 6-0 road loss at allowed 45.1, third-worst in the 48-team Class 3A. ple postseason honors. Doug was the Dragons’ best Parsons, which captured its first postseason contest Goodland returned just two starters on both sides blocker as a sophomore and the 6-3, 235 pounder in 42 years. The only score was a 45-yard TD run by of the ball last year and six players are back with Parsons QB Gage Friess in the third quarter. starting experience this season. Topliff has set a goal also racked up numerous postseason honors. Seniors Ethan McDonald (6-4, 295, OL), Aric Girard scored just 18.7 points per game and was to make the playoffs for the first time since ’13. No. 32 in offense in 3A but allowed only 15.6 points “We will be relentless in the weight room to become Propst (6-0, 215, TE) and Kaden Kraus (5-10, 190, FB) and junior tackle Kaden Lopez (5-10, 210) a game, which ranked No. 11 in the 48-team class. bigger, faster, stronger and more physical,” Topliff provide even more experience and talent. Two years ago, the Trojans scored 19.1 points per said. “We will continue to work to become stronger On defense the Dragons will feature a trio of the game and allowed 24.9. Three years ago, it was 29.5 in the fundamentals of the game. Compete in our best LBs in 3A in Propst, Kraus and Doug Grider. points per game and 25.9 allowed in a 5-6 season. league because if we can compete with the best in Grider led the team with 97 tackles, including 3.5 Girard graduated Kpreps all-state wide receiver the GWAC, we can compete with just about anyone for loss with two sacks and two caused fumbles. Evan Troike with 31 catches for 554 yards and five in the state. … Lastly, but most important, we will Propst tallied 79 tackles including 4.5 for loss with 1.5 scores, along with 56 tackles and three INTs. First continue to develop outstanding young men who, sacks and one INT. Kraus was injured for most of ’18 team all-league selections Carter Doherty (OL), one day, will become great husbands and fathers.” but led the team in tackles as a sophomore. Troike and Chandler Humble (RB/LB, unanimous seScott Grider and junior Lakin Farmer return at lection on both sides) graduated. Chaise Bryant (OL) 1-8 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 3A safety while Lopez and McDonald - a four-year also graduated after he was second team all-league, Great West Activities Conference starter - return along the defensive line. and Doherty was second team all-league d-line. Coach: Chase Topliff (3rd year, 3-15) Coach Grider has high expectations for his team Senior safety Wes Jahay is back after second team Assistants: Grant Wiegers, Jeremy Stefan, Bryan and believes experience could lead to the playoffs. all-league defensive back. He recorded 110 tackles, Kofford, Trevor Willemsen “The offense should be more explosive and the though missed Parsons with injury. Senior Durbie Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 defense should have the size and speed necessary McReynolds is also back after HM all-league. Returning lettermen: 20 for a deep run in 2019.” Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A Henry Cole, WR/DB, 5-9, 140, Sr.; Leyton Cure, 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League QB/DB, 6-3, 195, Jr.; Trevor Daise, OL, 6-2, 205, Central Kansas League Coach: Neil Philpot (3rd year, 9-10) Jr.; Mason Murray, WR/TE/DE, 6-2, 180, Jr.; Blake Assistants: N/A Sanderson, WR/DB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Levi Stasser, OL, Coach: Jason Grider (6th year, 40-16) Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Conor Nicholl 5-10, 180, Sr. Conor Nicholl Assistants: Adam Glendening, Chris Wilson, Ryan Voran, Jesse Mueller Offense: Veer Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 7 Defense Due to injuries suffered by Parker Roth and Cam- and two additional players who started at least one Kaden Kraus, FB/LB, 5-9, 190, Sr.; Scott Grider, eron Cox last year, the Hesston High School football game last year. RB/S, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Ethan McDonald, NG, 6-4, 295, team saw a glimpse of what 2019 would look like The Swathers have a stud at defensive back in Sr.; Aric Propst, LB, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Doug Grider, OL, without them. The dynamic duo played in only half Jordyn Vogt, who had 69 tackles last year. Fellow 6-3, 235, Jr.; Lakin Farmer, S, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Kaden of Hesston’s games together, which allowed more defensive back Max Arnold had four INTs, 34 tackles, Lopez, OL/DL, 5-10, 210, Jr. John Baetz players to gain experience. and a fumble recovery, good for all-league honors. Despite only returning four starters on offense, Bauerle says his linebacker group is the most For the second straight year and third time in four third-year head coach Tyson Bauerle has confidence experienced with all three starters returning. that kids will step up. On the defensive line, senior Cameron Weaver is years, Hiawatha will start the season with a new coach in charge. “The adversity the Swathers faced in 2018 brings a solidified starter, but Bauerle lists a large handful of Ted Brown gave way to Curtis Myers a year ago unintended positive consequences in 2019,” Bauerle other linemen fighting for playing time. said. “We’ve graduated key players but many guys Perennial power Hesston may fly under the radar a and now Myers has moved on. The program now belongs to Michael Downard, who was an assistant are ready to uphold the standards that have been bit in 2019, but that’s fine with Bauerle. on Myers’ staff last year. set.” “These young men have always been under the That familiarity will certainly help the transition and The losses of Roth’s 61 career touchdowns and shadow of the experience and names of the class Cox’s 3,000 career passing yards, 2,000 rushing ahead of them; now that class is gone,” Bauerle said. instead of starting from scratch, Downard will stick yards, and 800 receiving yards will shift the offense “Quite honestly, they have a chip on their shoulder.” with the systems Myers had in place a year ago. Hiawatha went 2-7 for the second straight season, toward a more balanced approach. but last year’s mark had a tinge of disappointment to Jacob Eilert and Max Arnold are running backs who 6-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A it. The Red Hawks opened and closed the season saw significant time last year, but Bauerle notes that Central Kansas League with victories and in between dropped seven straight they both have sophomore brothers who are capable Coach: Tyson Bauerle (3rd year, 14-8) games with none of them closer than 16 points. of earning starting time. Assistants: Doug Broadfoot, Phil Unruh, Parker Injuries played a part in that with senior back At receiver, Brady Cox is looking to take over for his Broadfoot, James McCartney Andrew Woods missing four games and starting brother Cameron as a playmaker and is among the Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 quarterback Tyler Brockhoff missing one. strongest players on the team, according to Bauerle. Returning lettermen: 16 After a big sophomore year that saw him throw At 6-foot-4, Ben Bollinger is the team’s top receiv- Returnings starters: 4 Offense, 7 Defense for 1,520 yards and 17 touchdowns, Brockhoff ing threat after hauling in 26 receptions for 277 yards Ben Bollinger, WR, 6-4, 180, Jr.; Brady Cox, WR, saw a sharp decline in his production a year ago. and a touchdown last year. 5-8, 150, Jr.; Cameron Weaver, OL/DE, 5-11, 210, He attempted half as many passes as he did as a Bauerle also lists six additional receivers with the Sr.; Owen O’Halloran, OL/DT, 5-8, 200, Jr.; Max potential to crack the rotation. Arnold, DB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Jordyn Vogt, DB, 5-9, 165, sophomore and wound up throwing for just 614 yards and five touchdowns. Jacob Eilert started the first two games of the year Sr.; Garrett Slater, DB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Jacob Eilert, at quarterback for the injured Cox and went 2-0. The LB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Landon Spencer, LB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; A return to his sophomore production level will be a big key for the Red Hawks’ success in 2019. He’ll senior is expected to win the starting job. Nick Arnold, LB, 6-2, 190, So. The Swathers return seven starters on defense Gallagher Martin have All-Big Seven League receiver Michael Moreno back as his top target. Moreno had 710 yards and 11 touchdowns as a sophomore and last year finished with 23 catches for 452 yards and four scores. 720 E Lincoln Blvd Downard expects a much bigger year from junior back Julian Brown, who ran for just 209 yards last year in eight games. Three starters are back on the offensive line, 620-327-2533 but the unit is still a big question mark for the Red Hawks with two of those starters moving to different Dine-in, Carryout & Delivery positions on the line. 785-899-5011 • Fax 785-899-5201

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HAVEN

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The 2018 season started on a high note and ended on a high note, but there wasn’t much to celebrate in between for the Haven Wildcats. Haven went 2-7 last season with a season-opening win over Lyons and a season-ending win over Rock Creek. In between, the Wildcats went 0-7 with a 32-24 loss to Hillsboro the only game decided by single digits. Thomas Cooprider and Drew Thalmann have five returning starters on offense and four on defense to work with in their first year as co-head coaches. The Wildcats only return nine lettermen and do not have an abundance of depth. According to Thalmann, the coaching staff will be searching Haven High for more players. “We need to recruit the halls to overcome a lack of depth,” Thalmann said. Junior Darby Roper returns as the team’s leading passer and rusher. Roper threw for 200 yards and a touchdown while rushing for 383 yards and two touchdowns. The Wildcats also return the senior running back duo of Mario Quintero and Wyatt Winter. Quintero rushed for 199 yards and three touchdowns while Winter had 156 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Quintero had 444 yards in the kick return game and was named honorable mention All-Central Kansas League as a returner. At 6-2, 272, Hunter Barlow will anchor both the offensive and defensive lines for the Wildcats. Barlow had 27 tackles and four tackles for loss last year on the defensive line. The Wildcats also return wide receiver/linebacker Skyler Shingleton, who had 14 tackles last season, as well as junior kicker Nathan Schmidt, who earned honorable mention All-CKL honors. Despite struggling last season, the Wildcats are currently on a one-game winning streak. The coaches will look to build off last season’s progress heading into the start of this season. “Our goals are to build on the way the year ended, have fun, and improve every day,” Thalmann said. “Focus on the little things.” 2-7 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 3A Central Kansas League Coaches: Thomas Cooprider/Drew Thalmann (1st season) Assistants: Cody Dick, Nick Schneider, Greg Thompson, Wade Spencer, Jared Hett Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense Marion Quintero, RB/DB, 5-7, 150; Wyatt Winter, RB/LB, 5-10, 168; Darby Roper, QB/DB, 5-10, 152; Hunter Barlow, OL/DL, 6-2, 272; Skyler Shingleton, WR/LB, 5-11, 145 Gallagher Martin

HIAWATHA

Hesston

Four of the top-five tacklers off last year’s defense graduated with Brown the leading returner with 55 stops a year ago. He’ll form a strong linebacker tandem with senior Kade Tollefson, but like the offense there are questions up front with only two starters back. Hiawatha’s two wins last year came against teams that combined for just two wins. The Red Hawks face all the traditional powers in the Big Seven League as well as district toughies Marysville and Wamego. Hiawtha was winless in district play last year and wound up scoring just 151 points on the season while giving up 335. 2-7 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 3A / Big Seven League Coach: Michael Downard (1st year) Assistants: Michael Meinert, Dustin Rottinghaus, Gordon Gundersen, Jim Cox Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3/4-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 9 Offense, 8 Defense Michael Moreno, WR/DB, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Tyler Brockhoff, QB, 6-4, 185, Sr.; Hunter Moore, OL/ DL, 6-2, 250, Sr.; Trent Kolb, WR/DB, 5-10, 145, Jr.; Mathew Shafer, OL/DL, 6-2, 295, Sr.; Kade Tollefson, Te/LB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Julian Brown, RB/LB, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Avery Meisenhiemer, OG, 6-0, 230, So. BM

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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HOLCOMB

Holcomb captured the Class 4A, Division II title in ’17, its second championship in three years. The Longhorns suffered heavy graduation losses last year and took a big drop from 12-1 to 4-5. Holcomb scored 19.9 points per game and allowed 24. Holcomb opened with a 34-12 road victory against Goodland, and then lost three straight to rival Scott City (24-0), Colby (38-34) and Nickerson (27-7). After two wins versus Larned (26-14) and Kingman (15-13), Holcomb lost to Pratt, 51-15, and Hugoton, 14-7, before a 41-23 win against Goodland to end the year. Two of the Longhorns’ losses came by a combined 11 points. Coach Kent Teeter set goals to improve through the entire season, stay healthy, win the close games and reach the playoffs. Holcomb used two quarterbacks last year, including senior Kobe Hands, who completed 52 percent of his passes for 385 yards with a 3/4 TD/INT ratio. Three of the top-four rushers graduated from a unit that averaged 153 rushing yards a game and 4.6 yards a carry. The top-three receivers also graduated. Holcomb has routinely had excellent turnover ratios, though was plus-1 in turnover margin last year. The Longhorns had at least plus-12 turnover margin in the last three years. Teeter will need to find some new leaders on defense where the top-four tacklers, and five of the top seven, were lost to graduation.

HOLTON

After spending two decades as a perennial contender for state championships, Holton found out how the other half lives in 2018. A young, inexperienced team combined with one of the toughest schedules in the state led to a 3-6 record — the program’s worst season under veteran coach Brooks Barta since his first year at the school. All three wins came in back-to-back-to-back weeks, starting with a big 37-32 upset of Nemaha Central. The next two were just as big as they came in Class 3A district play, securing a playoff berth for the Wildcats. Holton pushed rival Hayden in a 28-13 playoff loss and three of the six losses Holton suffered were by seven points or less. Barta expects a motivated squad for 2019, though the Wildcats will still be relatively young and inexperienced, particularly offensively where only three starters return. Two of them are in the backrfield and were the Wildcats’ leading rushers a year ago. Junior Konnor Tannahill led Holton with 674 yards and 11 TDs while senior Trey Wright added 540 yards and five TDs. Senior Kolby Roush is the only other returner who managed more than 200 yards (292 yards, 2 TDs) and Holton must fill a void at QB with senior Kale Purcell the likely candidate. Roush will spearhead a linebacking corp that should be the team’s stength defensively. He led Holton with 73 tackles (47 solo) and is flanked by returning starters Wright (33 tackles) and Ian Watkins (51 tackles). Tannahill (53 tackles) and Fletcher (48 tackles) also return defensively. The most glaring weakness for Holton is a spot that had long been a strength, the trenches. Senior Noah Woltje is the lone returning starting lineman offensively and Tannahill is the lone defender back up front. The Wildcats lack their traditional size as well and have arguably even bigger shoes to fill with the unit on the sidelines with the retirement of longtime offensive line coach Mark Middlemist.

4-5 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 3A Great West Activities Conference Coach: Kent Teeter (6th year, 49-10; 21st year, 11772) Assistants: Jerry Johnson, Brandon Hill, Lance Cornelsen, Andrew Homer Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 21 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Jace Tweedy, 5-11, 230, Sr.; Kai Johnson, 6-2, 220, Jr.; Trey Cox, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Drew Hill, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Devin Hill, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Kobe Hands, 5-8, 160, Sr.; 3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 3A / Big Seven League Sebastian Munoz, 5-8, 160, Sr. Conor Nicholl Coach: Brooks Barta (24th year, 219-51) Assistants: Joe Purcell, Alex Bartel, Brian Meerpohl, Matt Hundley, LD Fletcher, Cameron Karn Offense: Wishbone Defense: Odd Front Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 6 Defense Noah Woltje, OL, 6-2, 230, Sr.; Konnor Tannahill, FB/ GARDEN CITY, KS DT, 6-0, 215, Jr.; Trey Wright, RB/LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; 2611 West Jones 2611 West Ave. |Jones Toll Free: Ave.800-475-4114 | 620-275-4114| 620-275-4114 Kolby Roush, RB/LB, 5-7, 155, Sr.; Ian Watkins, LB/ TE, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Taygen Fletcher, DB/RB, 5-9, 155, Good Luck Longhorns! Sr. Brent Maycock

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HOYT-ROYAL VALLEY

After going 4-5 with a young team in 2017, expectations were a bit higher than the 2-7 mark Royal Valley posted in 2018. But in reality, getting much more out of the season was a tough ask. Royal Valley’s schedule was loaded, facing only two teams that ended up with losing records. The Panthers won both of those games, edging Riverside 28-27 and beating Hiawatha 28-12. Against the remainder of the daunting schedule, Royal Valley simply couldn’t come up with enough offense to challenge. The Panthers scored 56 points in their two wins and just 60 total in the seven losses, a third of that coming in a 61-20 loss to Marysville. For the second straight year, the strength of the Panthers will be in the trenches. Five starters return on the offensive line and there’s good size in that group. Senior tackles Komesh Spoonhunter and Jaiden Wamego are both 6-3, 280 pounds and both are three-year starters. Senior guard Greg Koon checks in at 6-1, 265 and the other two returners are both at least 210 pounds. Spoonhunter performed well enough last year to earn All-Big Seven League honors in a league loaded with quality linemen. Gavin Cumpton is a three-year starter at quarterback and is flanked by fellow seniors Chance Lyming and Tegan Ruddy, who are the team’s leading returning rusher and receiver, respectively. Improved depth, particularly on the lines, should help the Panthers against a schedule that again will be one of the toughest in the state, starting with games against Perry-Lecompton and Jefferson West to start the season. The district is a load with two-time defending 3A state champion Sabetha and 3A quarterfinalist Marysville as well as Holton and Wamego. 2-7 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 3A Big Seven League Coach: Jake Lott (6th year, 17-28) Assistants: David Boucher, Peter Pfannenstiel, Josh Jackson Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense Komesh Spoonhunter, OT/DT, 6-4, 280, Sr.; Jaiden Wamego, OT/DT, 6-3, 280, Sr.; Gavin Cumpton, QB/ FS, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Greg Koon, OG/DT, 6-1, 265, Sr.; Chance Lyming, RB/LB, 5-9, 175, Sr. Tegan Ruddy, RB/LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Zach Burger, OG/DE, 5-9, 210, Sr.; Edgar Higine, OL/DT, 5-6, 215, Sr. BM

KC-BISHOP WARD

Coach Greg Duggins returns to his role as head coach at his alma mater to try and end a 47 game in Daugharthy’s 3-4 scheme with Whitney, Badders losing streak that stretches all the way back to October of 2013. Duggins will try to rebuild the Cyclone and junior Aidan Jones solid in the secondary. Iola has had plenty of success at the sub-varsity program to the level of success he delivered in his level in recent years and would love to carry it over first stint as head coach from 2002-2009. In that span to the varsity level. The front end of the schedule is Duggins led the Cyclones to six playoff appearances demanding with Parsons coming off one of its best in seven seasons. Duggins is the third coach for the Cyclones in as seasons in years and returning several key players many years, and the fourth different coach in five for the opener. Games with Wellsville, Chanute and Anderson County follow and Iola gave up at least 35 points to each of those first four foes a year ago before posting back-to-back wins over Osawatomie and Burlington.

IOLA

Following an 0-4 start to the season, Iola won three of its final five games to post a second straight 3-6 season under David Daugharthy. The Mustangs capped the year with a 24-22 win over previously consistent winner Columbus and also scored a big win over Pioneer League rival Burlington. Seeking its first winning season since 2013, Iola will build around seven returning starters and 17 lettermen. Graduation hit hardest on the offensive and defensive lines, claiming two-way first-team All-Pioneer League pick Nic Zimmerman and second-teamer Mat Karr. If Daugharthy can fill the holes on the line with some young, promising players he feels he has the skill players to put together a fast, confident offense that showed flashes a year ago. The Mustangs were held to less than two touchdowns just once last year and return the bulk of last year’s skill players. Senior back Casen Barker split time between quarterback and running back a year ago, but should settle in under center this year. He’ll be flanked by junior Isaac Badders, who was a second-team all-league selection last year, as well as seniors Zane Whitney and Karson McGraw, though McGraw cold move to the line to provide some experience to the unit. Barker earned all-league honors on defense at linebacker and will team with McGraw and sophomore Tyler Boeken to form a strong middle

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3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 3A / Pioneer League Coach: David Daugharthy (3rd year, 6-12) Assistants: Dana Daugharthy, Daniel Vaughn, Cody Hager, Ben Weihn Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Casen Barker, QB/RB/ILB, 5-7, 165, Sr.; Zane Whitney, RB/S, 5-7, 155, Sr.; Karson McGraw, OLB/RB/OL, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Logan Brown, DL, 6-2, 240, Jr.; Isaac Badders, RB/S, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Gage Turner, OL, 5-11, 230, Jr.; Drake Sellman, WR, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Tyler Boeken, OL/ILB, 6-1, 180, So.; Aidan Jones, CB, 5-8, 180, Jr. Brent Maycock

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HUGOTON

Hugoton had a one-win improvement under new coach Nick O’Loughlin, a former assistant coach at St. Francis and Hugoton native. The Eagles opened 0-3 last year with just 12 points scored and all losses by at least 23 points. Then, Hugoton won at Kingman, 23-17, and defeated Nickerson, 42-20. Hugoton lost at Pratt, 42-0, defeated Larned (23-7), won at Holcomb (14-7) before losing to Beloit at home, 28-0, to open the playoffs. The win against Holcomb broke a four-game losing streak in the series. Hugoton scored 12.7 points a game and allowed 24.4 points a contest. In ’17, the Eagles delivered 16.6 points a contest, allowing 21.6 points. O’Loughlin listed team goals as: Grow to be better men, playoff contender, district champs and win playoff game. Hugoton is again in District 7 with Holcomb, Kingman, Larned, Pratt and Nickerson. It’s a wide open district with Pratt and Holcomb with big graduation losses and Pratt coach Jamie Cruce taking over at 6A Campus. Larned was winless and Nickerson and Kingman combined for just five victories and Kingman coach Curtis Albin joined the staff at Goddard. “Being committed to excellence,” O’Loughlin said of additional keys to success. “Upholding and living by high standards, becoming more physical up front and putting time into the offseason.” 4-5 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 3A Great West Activities Conference Coach: Nick O’Loughlin (3rd year, 4-5) Assistants: Jay Witt, Jose Licoln, Tanner Rindles Offense: Pistol Defense: Multiple 40 Front Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Riggs Martin, QB, 6-0, 185, Jr.; Austin Dale, TE/RB/ LB, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Michael Mendoza, C/DE, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Ashton Burrows, S/RS, 5-6, 135, So.; Trevor Bogan, WR/DB, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Haden Daharsh, LB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Ivan Valles, RB/DT, 5-8, 160, Sr. CN

Jeff Ramsey, Agent Phone: 620-544-4303 seasons, with Tim Dorian the previously longest tenured coach serving from 2012-2015. In an athletic department press release in December of 2018 Duggins said he was excited for the opportunity “to make new relationships and rekindle others within the Ward Community.” The 1983 BW grad has 31 years of experience. “I believe in these young men and I believe in the future of the program,” Duggins said in the release. 0-9 in 2017 / 0-3 in districts / 3A / Crossroads League Coach: Greg Duggins (1st year; 9th overall) JB

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

KINGMAN

Curtis Albin spent eight years as head coach of the Kingman Eagles before leaving this spring to join the coaching staff at Goddard. Former Fort Hays State wide receiver Tanner Hageman has been selected to replace Albin, and Hagemen will be taking over a Kingman team that went 3-6 last year. The Eagles began the year 1-5 before back-to-back wins against Nickerson and Larned — teams that finished a combined 2-16 — put Kingman at three wins. The Eagles ended their season with a 51-21 loss to Colby in the first round of the 3A playoffs. The Eagles must find replacements for two-way star John Molitor, who led the team in rushing and tackles for loss, as well as QB Riley Krehbiel. Kingman must also find capable linemen on both sides of the ball if the Eagles are to compete in their second year in the Central Plains League. Running back Hayden Albright is the team’s leading returning rusher, and he is also one of three players back from an experienced secondary. The Eagles have two capable receivers in Dalton Freund and Michial Milford, who both double as defensive backs. Tight end Seth Krehbiel will also be a target in the passing game. The Eagles graduated four of their five o-linemen, so expect junior Austin Bell to anchor the line. The defensive line looks a bit better with Bell and senior defensive end Jake Rohlman leading the way. Kingman also has two linebackers they can count on in Krehbiel and senior Caden Hageman. On both sides of the ball, the Eagles will need linemen to step up. Additionally, the offense is looking for a new QB. “Our goals for the season are to be a senior-led team, and learn how to compete on a daily basis,” Hageman said.

LACYGNE-PRAIRIE VIEW

It took head coach Kyle Littrell just two years to get the Prairie View football program to heights it hasn’t seen in two decades. In his first year, the Buffalos finished second in their district and lost in the first round of the 4A Division II playoffs. Last year, Prairie View enjoyed at least eight wins for the first time since 1998, and only the seventh time in school history. Prairie View even won a playoff game last year — a 27-7 win over Caney Valley. Even though the Buffaloes ended their season the following week at the hands of Parsons, the 2018 season was a huge step forward for Littrell and company. The big question is can he keep the momentum moving forward? The Buffaloes return 21 lettermen, but just four starters on each side of the ball. But what the Buffaloes will lack in quantity, they make up for in quality. Senior Hunter Boone is a first-team All-Pioneer League linebacker and a 1,000-yard rusher at running back. Last season, Boone recorded 87 tackles, 12 for loss, and was the leader of a Prairie View defense that allowed 11.9 points per game. The Prairie View defense also limited teams to single digits in six of 10 games, and Boone was a major reason why. At running back, Boone rushed for 1,114 yards and nine touchdowns. In 70 percent of his games, Boone eclipsed the 100-yard mark on the ground. The Buffaloes also return quarterback Justin Scott, who rushed for 509 yards and eight touchdowns, while throwing for 424 yards and four more touchdowns. If Scott can improve upon his 39 percent completion percentage, the Prairie View offense will be even more dangerous. Isaac Partida will serve as a tight end and defen3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 3A sive back, while Otis Jacob will receive carries at Central Plains League running back and will start at linebacker. Coach: Tanner Hageman (1st year) The Buffalos have many starters to replace, but Assistants: Dusty Beam, Kyle Kriegh, Justin Reid, Littrell still has lofty expectations for the team. Bradley Payne Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Stack “Our goals for the season are to continue to get Returning lettermen: 8 better everyday, win league, win district, and win Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense multiple playoff games,” Littrell said. Hayden Albright, RB/FS, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Dalton Freund, WR/DB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Michial Milford, WR/ 8-2 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 3A / Pioneer League CB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Seth Krehbiel, TE/OLB, 5-10, 175, Coach: Kyle Littrell (3rd year, 12-6) Jr.; Austin Bell, OL/DL, 6-0, 205, Jr.; Jake Rohlman, Assistants: Will Shannon, Joe Cullor, Aaron Law, DE, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Caden Hageman, LB, 5-9, 165, Sr. Jared Drew Gallagher Martin Offense: Pro I Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 21 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Hunter Boone, RB/LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Justin Scott, QB/DB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Isaac Partida, TE/DB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Otis Jacobs, RB/LB, 5-11, 185, Jr. Gallagher Martin Kingman, St. John

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MARYSVILLE

After graduating a slew of seniors off the 2017 team that went 12-2 and fell 7-6 to Sabetha in the 3A state title game, Marysville simply reloaded last year. The Bulldogs started the season 2-2 with losses to Chapman and eventual 3A champion Sabetha, but then reeled off six straight wins to reach the state quarterfinals before dropping a heartbreaking 42-36 double-overtime decision to Galena. The 8-3 season was a validation for a program that was a consistent winner in the early 2000s before tough times led to a lengthy losing streak. Heuer, now in his seventh year, has brought the program back to being a perennial contender and the Bulldogs will enter 2019 as one of the favorites in Class 3A. For good reason. After suffering heavy graduation losses off the 2017 state runner-up team, Marysville returns virtually everyone from last year’s NCKL runner-up squad. As talented as the 2017 senior class was, this year’s might be even better with a number of them contributing heavily as sophomores two years ago. Senior tailback Atreyau Hornbeak came on strong during Marysville’s postseason run in 2017 but was a force from the opening kickoff last year. He finished with 1,170 yards and 17 touchdowns rushing and also was a threat in the passing game with 22 catches for 348 yards and three TDs, second on the team to departed All-Class 3A receiver Jacob Backus (743 yards, 10 TDs). Backus’ graduation leaves returning QB Brandon Schroedl without his go-to receiver. If the Bulldogs can fill that void, Schroedl should have another big year as he threw for 1,725 yards and 18 TDs in his first year as a starter replacing standout Jack Blumer. The biggest holes to fill will be up front where allleague lineman Levi Nordhus is one of two starters

who graduated. Senior Lucas Dankenbring was an honorable mention all-league pick on offense and senior Brycen Detimore was first-team on defense. Seven starters return overall defensively, including the Bulldogs’ top-two tacklers. Garron Champoux led the team with 144 tackles and Storm Slupianek added 102, both earning first-team all-league honors. 8-3 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 3A North Central Kansas League Coach: Dustin Heuer (7th year, 31-32) Assistants: Mitch Shephard, Ben Wertenberger, Bert Lord, Landon Wright, Chris Butler, Lucas Packett Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 31 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Atreyau Hornbeak, RB/LB, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Garron Champoux, HB/LB, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Brandon Schroedl, QB/DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Storm Slupianek, RB/LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Lucas Dankenbring, OL/DL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Ben Dwerlkotte, OL/DL, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Koby Schroeder, OL/LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Alex White, WR/ DB, 6-0, 165, SR.; Owen Nietfeld, WR/DB, 5-10, 150, SR.; Caden Brinegar, WR/DB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Noah Ackerman, OL/DL, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Brycen Detimore, OL/DL, 5-10, 180, Sr. Brent Maycock

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LARNED

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LINDSBORG-SMOKY VALLEY

Larned had Round of 16 appearances in ’16 and ’17, including a 6-5 mark in ’17. Those marked the best playoff advancements for the Indians since ’85. Last year, coach A.B. Stokes went to Bethel College, and longtime assistant Tad Remy, now in his eighth season with the program, took over as head coach. Larned had significant graduation losses and had just three offensive and four defensive returning starters last fall. Just two of the returners were seniors. Additionally, Larned suffered key injuries. As a result, the Indians dropped back to 0-9. Larned lost to Smoky Valley, 46-7, fell to Hesston, 28-21, and lost to Hoisington, 50-13. Then, the Indians dropped to Pratt, 55-0, but were competitive in a 26-14 road loss to Holcomb. In the final month, the Indians fell to Nickerson, 20-6, lost to Hugoton, 23-7, and then dropped to Kingman, 40-10, and Russell, 48-20. The Indians will enter the season on a 10-game losing streak. Before the skid, Larned had won four in a row, including a 42-6 playoff win versus Lakin. Then, the Indians ended the ’17 season with a 36-28 home playoff loss to eventual state runner-up Marysville. This year, the Indians have eight offensive and seven defensive returning starters and should be significantly more experienced compared to last year. Seniors Mason Perez, Brock Skelton, Caleb East and Brandon Ceniceros are all entering at least their third years as starters, and Perez has started since he was a freshman. Skelton and Perez were both honorable mention all-state basketball in the winter as Larned reached the state tournament for the first time since 1994. “Be dependable and coachable every day and make the playoffs,” Remy said of goals and keys. “Having a great summer, getting stronger, faster, and staying injury free.”

When Tim Lambert took over the Smoky Valley High School football program in 2015, his Vikings finished the year 2-7. Fast forward one year and the Vikings went 8-3 and won a playoff game. The next year Smoky Valley went 9-2 and again won a playoff game. Smoky Valley continued the trend of getting better after going 10-1 last year and winning a playoff game for the third consecutive season. The Vikings began the year 10-0 before Pratt delivered SV a loss in the 3A quarterfinals. Last year’s Smoky Valley squad was almost entirely led by seniors, meaning this year’s team will have some big shoes to fill. With only three returning senior starters, Smoky Valley will lean on underclassmen and juniors to continue the success Vikings fans are becoming accustomed to seeing. “We have some young men that have had to wait to get to play because of the talent in front of them, so we will have to wait and see how they respond to their opportunity,” Lambert said. Smoky Valley has bought into its offensive identity under Lambert. The Vikings will run the ball every single play if team’s allow them to do so. Smoky Valley’s three-headed rushing attack of QB Lane Schrag (11 TDs) and running backs Timmy Lambert (nine TDs) and Cort Elliott (12 TDs) has graduated. Lambert and Elliott were both 1,000-yard rushers last fall while Schrag nearly reached 800. Offensive lineman Dax Hopp is the only returning starter from the offensive side. Hopp doubles as a defensive tackle, joining safety Andrew Peters and linebacker Raliegh Wilson as the only returning starters on defense. “Keys to a winning season will be getting stronger in the weight room,” Lambert said. “We will have to play very hard. Our determination to prove ourselves will play a big role in our success.”

0-9 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 3A Central Kansas League Coach: Tad Remy (2nd year, 0-9) Assistants: Mike Hensley, Tim Coles, Cody Coleman, Israel Hagerman, Charles MacNeil Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 24 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Mason Perez, OT/LB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Brock Skelton, WR/DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Tristan Burger, WR/DB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Braydon Lemuz, WR/DB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Paxton Wagner, OL/DL, 6-0, 255, Sr.; Caleb East, OL/LB, 6-0, 205, Sr.; Brandon Ceniceros, OL/LB, 5-11, 215, Sr.; Chance Sanger, WR/DB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Dillen Smith, QB/DB, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Sebastian Wittington, OL/DL, 5-11, 235, Sr.; Reed McNett, OL/ DL, 5-10 240, Sr.; Josh Kramer, OL/DL, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Logan Erway, RB/LB, 5-9, 170, So.; Trevor Bartz, RB/LB, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Taylor Martin, OL/DL, 6-4, 285, Jr. Conor Nicholl

10-1 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 3A Central Kansas League Coach Tim Lambert (5th year, 29-13; 26th overall, 194-84) Assistants: James Henderson, Chris McClure, Ben Elliott, Chuck Peters, Allan Meier Offense: I-formation Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 1 Offense, 3 Defense Andrew Peters, SS. 5-10, 160, Sr.; Raliegh Wilson, LB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Dax Hopp, OT/DT, 6-2, 195, Sr.GM

Opening the season with a 14-12 win over Big Seven League rival Holton, Jefferson West served notice that it was going to be a much better team in 2018. Sure enough, the Tigers more than doubled its 2017 win total, posting a 5-4 mark. The final record might have been even better had starting QB Cade Ross not gotten hurt in Week Six, and missing the rest of the season. Ross tied a state record with seven TD passes in a 55-0 win over KC Ward and finished his abbreviated season throwing for 1,147 yards and 20 TDs with just two INTs. West will have to do without Ross this year as he moved to Florida after his father, Pat, took a coaching job in the state. But the Tigers should be equipped to deal with his departure as returning senior Quinn Neuenswander stepped in at the position when Ross went down a year ago. His move from receiver combined with the graduation of leading receiver Zeth Unruh leaves some question marks at the spot outside returning starter Joe Anderson (410 yards), but that’s about the only ones for an offense that returns eight starters overall. Leading rusher Bryce Clements is back after gaining 541 on just 102 carries and has four of five starting linemen back in front of him. West coach Steve Johnson has to be salivating at the prospects of what the trio of Saili brothers can offer. Senior Kauli Saili was a first-team All-3A selection on the d-line after making 72 tackles last year and also will anchor the offense. Junior brother Pene Saili had 92 tackles and was a bruising presence at fullback, while sophomore Danny Saili had 26 tackles as a freshman and joins Kauli on both lines. Senior linebacker Joel Scott led the Tigers in tackles a year ago with 94 and heads nine returning starters to that a unit that allowed 158 points.

West started last year 4-0 before dropping four of its last five, the season ending with a 32-7 loss to eventual Class 3A champion Sabetha. Expectations are as high as they’ve been in quite some time for the program. They’ll have to earn it, however, as the schedule, in particular the district, is still a bear with the likes of Holton, Hayden, PerryLecompton and Santa Fe Trail on the slate.

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5-4 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 3A Big Seven League Coach: Steve Johnson (13th year) Assistants: Doug Sidener, Dan Hypse, Jake Farrant, Chris Powers Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 18 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 9 Defense Kauli Saili, OL/DL, 5-11, 285, Sr.; Pene Saili, FB/LB, 6-1, 230, Jr.; Quinn Neuenswander, QB/FS, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Bryce Clements, RB/DE, 6-2, 195, SR.; Gavin Schwinn, OL/DL, 6-4, 285, Sr.; Danny Saili, OL/DL, 6-3, 320, So.; Joel Scott, OL/LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Joe Anderson, WR/DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Henry Frahm, TE/ DE, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Brayden Abrams, SS/RB, 5-10, 190, Jr.; Josh Broxterman, WR/DB, 6-3, 195, Jr.; Brayden Cruz, WR/DB, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Cayden Young, LB/TE, 6-0, 170, Sr. Brent Maycock

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

NICKERSON

Nickerson’s 2-7 record did not tell the whole story last year. John Wellman was faced with a challenging schedule in his first year at Nickerson and the Panthers began the year 0-3 with competitive losses to Halstead (22-7), Hoisington (28-14) and Smoky Valley (8-6), all of whom made the playoffs. Nickerson found the win column the next week against Holcomb, only to drop a disappointing loss to Hugoton the following week. After a bounce-back win over Larned the next week, Nickerson ended the season on a three-game losing streak. Wellman has built a 42-26 overall coaching record with the bulk of his success coming at Chase. The Panthers return nine starters on offense and seven on defense to go along with 22 returning lettermen to help them again be competitive in the CKL. Nickerson had talent at skill positions last season, but poor play in the trenches cost the Panthers. “Improved play on the offensive line will be our keys to success,” Wellman said. The Panthers return four o-linemen. At 6-2, 215, Logan Broomfield is the only senior amongst the four. Noah Salazar will be a big key to the team’s success on both sides of the ball. On offense, he will be one of the team’s top receivers while defensively he is coming off second-team All-CKL honors at d-back. Defensively Broomfield was also named to the All-CKL Second Team on the defensive line. The Panthers will have to replace standout linebacker and tight end Hunter Jones, a Shrine Bowl selection and Pittsburg State track commit, and talented quarterback Tanner Schrag, a Barton Community College baseball commit. Look for senior tight end Tanner Hull and senior linebacker Tanner Smith to do their best to fill the void left behind by Jones and senior Tre Garcia to get the nod at quarterback. “Our goals are to win our district and advance in the playoffs,” Wellman said. 2-7 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 3A Central Kansas League Coach: John Wellman (2nd year, 2-7) Assistants: Todd Fulton, Reggie Langford, Braden Schultz, Joe Hobert, Jarred Westmoreland Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 22 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 7 Defense Eric Malecki, OL, 6-0, 225, Jr.; Logan Broomfield, OL/DE, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Tanner Hull, TE, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Sam Logan, OL, 5-9, 220, So.; Michael Schnieder, OL, 6-0, 245, Jr.; Tre Garcia, QB, 5-7, 165, Sr.; Jarin Gomez, FB/DT, 5-8, 185, Sr.; Bryce Isly, RB/DB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Noah Salazar, WR/DB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Mattieu Cedillo, DT, 6-1, 285, Sr.; Tanner Smith, LB, 5-9, 195, Sr. Gallagher Martin

OSAWATOMIE

Last year’s season opener gave a pretty good glimpse into what the 2018 season was going to wind up looking like for Osawatomie. The Trojans were shut out 40-0 by Olpe. And while Olpe did go on to play for the Class 1A state title, the outcome was a microcosm of an 0-9 season. Not enough offense and defensive struggles. Osawatomie managed just 63 points for the season, seven per game, and were shut out five times — two straight to start the season and three straight to finish it. The defense allowed 36 or more points eight times and the closest game was a 12-0 loss to Baxter Springs to end the season. Veteran coach Rod Madden has long relied on a strong ground game, but last year, the Trojans couldn’t get much traction with the run. Osawatomie gained just 913 yards all season and scored just six rushing touchdowns. Braden Bradshaw led the Trojans with 443 yards and is back, along with quarterback Boyd Cole, who had a combined 685 rushing and passing yards and eight touchdowns. Sophomore Kaden Fields led the Trojans in tackles last year as a freshman with 56 and Osawatomie returns three of its top four tacklers overall.

From 2012 through 2017, the Parsons High School football team won a combined five games. In Kurt Friess’ first year last season, Parsons won eight games and made the quarterfinals of the 3A playoffs. In one of the best success stories in the state last season, Parsons began the year 4-0 and ended the regular season 6-2. The Vikings lost regular-season games to Frontenac and Galena before running into eventual state champions Sabetha in the playoffs. The Vikings defeated Girard, 6-0, for the program’s first playoff win since 1976. While Parsons returns six starters on both sides of the ball, they do lose a talented senior class that included the team’s top passer, rusher, receiver, and tackler. Still, Friess likes what he has returning and believes his team can take another step forward in 2019. “We hope to build on last year’s success,” Friess said. “We have a solid core group.” On offense, the Vikings are replacing quarterback Gage Friess, who threw for over 2,000 yards and 27 touchdowns. Senior Daquan Johnson is an all-around athlete, and is expected to take over at quarterback. Last season, Johnson completed 12 of 36 passes for 216 yards and three touchdowns. Johnson was the team’s third-leading rusher with 206 yards and three touchdowns. Not only is Johnson the team’s leading returning passer and runner, he’s also the leading returner at receiver. He caught 29 passes for 273 yards and six touchdowns last season. 0-9 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 3A Receivers Anthony Pousher and Dariq Williams Pioneer League combined for seven receiving touchdowns and are Coach: Rod Madden both back this season. Assistants: N/A Johnson will lead the defense like he leads the Offense: N/A Defense: N/A offense. He had six interceptions at defensive back, Returning lettermen: N/A two of which he returned for touchdowns. Johnson Returning starters: N/A Offense, N/A Defense returned a punt and kickoff back for a touchBrent Maycock also down last season. Williams is also an all-around playmaker for the Vikings. Last season he returned two punts for a touchdown and had three interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.

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PRATT

The Pratt High School football program is starting fresh. Jamie Cruce spent six years as head coach of the Greenbacks, leading Pratt to the 2016 state title and finished last year as state runner-up. After a 42-21 record with Pratt, Cruce accepted the head coaching position at Campus last February. The Greenbacks went 12-1 last year and lost to Sabetha, 43-42, in an epic double-overtime thriller for the 3A state championship. Cruce was a big reason for Pratt’s success last year, but he is hardly the only important piece that will need replacing. Standout quarterback/running back Travis Theis, who is now playing for FCS South Dakota, is gone but not forgotten. Theis ran for an astonishing 2,608 yards and 43 touchdowns on the ground while casually throwing for 985 yards and 11 more touchdowns through the air. Theis also led the team with 91 tackles as a linebacker. Along with replacing a state-championship winning coach and an all-time great back, the Greenbacks are replacing their leading receiver, Brett Winsor, who caught 10 of Theis’ 11 touchdown passes. Suffice it to say Brent Hoelting, who spent five seasons as head coach at Lyndon, has a lot on his plate in his first year as head coach of the Greenbacks. “We lost 82 percent of our rushing, 98 percent of our receiving yards and 64 percent of our tackles to graduation,” Hoelting said. “We will be learning a new

PARSONS

system while breaking in many new players, but we have great leadership in our seniors and they are looking forward to taking their turn at the reins.” The defense is in better shape than the offense, returning six starters compared to two. Jarrett Bates will lead the defensive line after recording three sacks last year, while 6-5, 240 pound senior A.J. Arensdorf will anchor the offensive line. Linebackers Hunter Huber and Bryce Winsor are also back from a D that recorded six shutouts. Hoelting says he has about 65 players out for football this year, good numbers for a retooling program. “We are focused on improving every day and coming out and competing on Friday nights this fall,” Hoelting said.

8-3 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A / Independent Coach: Kurt Friess (2nd year, 8-3) Assistants: Deonta Wade, Jeff Schibi, Brad Woodworth, Jaran Dixon, Chris Beard, Rob Barcus, Don Barcus Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 25 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Daquan Johnson, QB/CB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Anthony Pousher, WR/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Dariq Williams, WR/ FS, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Ricky Ellis III, G/DT, 6-0, 210, Jr.; Noah Ryan, OT/DE, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Aidan O’Banion, OT/DE, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Tanner Barcus, WR/DB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Croix Hogan, WR/FS, 5-11, 175, Sr. GM

Page 101

PERRY-LECOMPTON

Perry-Lecompton enjoyed a season one might expect from a team loaded with seniors in 2018. The Kaws won five of their first six games with the lone loss a tough 35-33 decision to eventual Class 3A state champion Sabetha. They finished the year with a 7-3 mark, two of the three losses coming to Sabetha — the second of those a 26-8 decision in the second round of the playoffs. Four of Perry’s seven losses in the last two seasons have come to Sabetha teams that went on to capture state titles. In order to keep the roll going, however, veteran coach Mike Paramore will have to reload quickly. All those seniors who helped produced back-to-back seven-win seasons are gone and only two starters are back on offense for the Kaws. While the losses were many, the biggest, arguably, is that of Dalton Kellum. Though he didn’t quite match the stats he put up in his breakout junior year when he topped 1,290 yards both rushing and passing, Kellum still enjoyed a great senior season, rushing for 1,416 yards and 19 touchdowns and throwing for 551 yards and six scores. Part of his production drop could be attributed to the development of his complementary skill players. Fellow seniors Colton Mallonee, Shane Quinlan and Blaine Pattin combined for 1,500 combined rushing and receiving yards. They’re all gone and the only full-time starters back offensively are linemen Hayden Robb and Sean Urban, each of whom were two-way starters last year as sophomores. Junior quarterback William Welch played quite a bit last year and started both playoff games as Paramore shifted Kellum to running back some to get him open in space. Welch wound up throwing for 713 yards and eight touchdowns, completing more than 50 percent of his passes. Four starters are back on defense, led by the linebacker duo of Robb and senior Grant Roush. Both had 60-plus solo tackles last year with Robb earning honorable mention all-league honors. Urban was a first-team all-league pick at linebacker, but moves to the defensive line this year. As was the case a year ago, the Kaws’ schedule is a doozy. Perry faces perennial powers Holton and Sabetha in Weeks Two and Three before embarking on a district slate that was arguably the toughest in 3A a year ago, including the likes of Hayden, Jefferson West and Santa Fe Trail. The last time Paramore had this many holes to fill was in 2017 and the Kaws enjoyed a better season than they did the year before. 7-3 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 3A / Big Seven League Coach: Mike Paramore (19th year, 91-84) Assistants: Caleb Denton, Jordan Allen, Mitch McPherson, Mike Kelley, Jared Swafford Offense: Spread Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 4 Defense Hayden Robb, OG/LB, Jr.; Sean Urban, OT/DL, Jr.; Grant Roush, LB/SS, Sr.; Austin McCrory, DL, Sr.BM

12-1 in 2018 / 3-0 in district / 3A Central Kansas League Coach: Brent Hoelting (1st year; 6th overall, 37-15) Assistants: Caleb Hendricks, Tyler Strong, Jason Gallagher, Larry Eisenhauer, Lance Sorensen Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 6 Defense A.J. Arensdorf, OL, 6-5, 240, Sr.; Dylan Cox, DB, 5-5, 140, Sr.; Hunter Huber, RB/LB, 5-9, 200, Sr.; Grant May, DB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Bryce Winsor, LB, 5-8, 170, Jr.; Jarrett Bates, DE, 6-4, 230, Sr.; Dawson Snider, DE, 6-1, 240, Sr. Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

SABETHA

State champion had such a nice ring to it, 1312 S. Old 75 Hwy Sabetha took on all comers and did it again in Sabetha 2018. The Bluejays captured their second straight Class 3A state title, running the table in arguably 785-284-2117 the toughest classification in the state for a perfect 13-0 season. Delivery available 5pm-9pm Dine-in, Carryout, & Delivery The road was anything but easy with Sabetha surviving a loaded district before putting on a dominating display in the playoffs to get back to the RUSSELL state championship game. Russell enjoyed a strong start with back-to-back The finale was an instant classic. A year after winning a defensive slugfest with Marysville for the home wins against Ellsworth (24-13) and La Crosse (50-12) and opened a season 2-0 for the title, Sabetha engaged in an offensive shootout with Pratt, prevailing 43-42 in overtime when Gabe first time since 2004. Garber just clipped the pylon on the winning twoThe Broncos then lost six straight contests, point conversion. including a defeat by 14 points and another one Is a three-peat in order? Well, as tough as by three. Russell defeated Larned, 48-20, in wearing the bull’s-eye was a year ago, the burden Week 9. Russell had a one-win dropoff from a will be even heavier. Sabetha graduated a stellar 4-5 mark in 2017, which was the most wins for the program since three straight four-win seasons senior class that helped produce a 42-8 record in its four years. Gone are All-State lineman Elliott from 2008-’10. Strahm, All-3A linebacker Cauy Rokey and kicker Russell has not played more than nine games Braeden Cox and leading rusher Joseph Gruber, since a 5-5 mark in 2006 and has not had a who put up back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and winning record since going 7-3 in 2003. Russell is on its third coach in three seasons go- was a workhorse in the postseason last year. ing from Jeff Brull to Jordan Echer to the well-trav- So what’s left for another title run? Plenty, eled Otis Hendryx. Echer took over at Concordia actually. for Austin Kingsbury who joined the staff at Salina Five starters return both ways and there’s a load of experience in the 19 returning lettermen, who Central as the defensive coordinator. saw time in the numerous blowouts the Bluejays Hendryx is 62-73 with head coaching stints, including at Stockton, Chase, Claflin and Thunder administered a year ago. Senior Gabe Garber is a four-year starter who Ridge, according to KSAL Radio of Russell. made a smooth transition from running back to Russell returns receivers Braydon Gibson, a quarterback last year and helped the Bluejays avgood route runner, and Rhett Pospichal, also a erage 40.5 points per game. Garber ran for 1,155 second team all-league free safety. yards and 18 touchdowns and threw for 990 yards Offensive lineman Tyler Moresco started six and 13 scores, completing 66 percent of his passes games last year, broke his wrist in Week 9 and and throwing only one interception. played the entire game with the injury. He has put As good as he’s been offensively for the Bluejays, on 20-30 pounds in the offseason. racking up nearly 3,000 yards of total offense in his Sophomore Jesse Whitmer will likely be the career, he’s arguably been even better defensively. team’s best player after a standout freshman year After leading the team with 123 tackles as a sophwhere he was second team all-league and led the omore, he was second to Rokey last year with 112 team in tackles with 79. He was a state qualifier in and has 271 in his career. the 100 meter dash and last fall carried the ball 31 No other returning skill player had more than 73 times for 256 yards and a score. yards rushing or 154 yards receiving, so filling the Two of the team’s top-three tacklers return with holes around Garber will be a key. The line returns Whitmer and Pospichal (55 stops). three starters, including three-year starters Carson Senior quarterback Austin Price graduated after Ukele and Walker Lowdermilk. he passed for 1,016 yards with an 11/7 TD/INT Senior Colby Tinklin added 47 tackles and Drew ratio. Price rushed 84 times for 490 yards and Schmelzle had 39 on a defense that allowed just five scores. over 10 points per game last year and posted five Kyler Fritschen graduated after he was first team shutouts. all-league defensive back. Sabetha may not have the known commodities Russell scored 23.3 points and allowed 32.4 of a year ago, but veteran coach Garrett Michael points a contest. Two years ago, the Broncos feels the program is in a spot where the next group scored 19 points a game and permitted 31.2. is ready to step up and continue the success of previous teams. 3-6 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 3A North Central Activities Association 13-0 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 3A / Big Seven League Coach: Garrett Michael (11th year, 71-42) Coach: Otis Hendryx (1st year) Assistants: Nathan Bauman, Aaron Frey, Alex Assistants: N/A McAfee, Kaleb Moeller, Josh Wertenberger Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Offense: Splitback Veer Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 3 Defense Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Braydon Gibson, WR, Jr.; Rhett Pospichal, WR/ Gabe Garber, QB/LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Carson Ukele, SLOT/FS, Sr.; Tyler Moresco, LG, So.; Braden Flax, C, Sr.; Braden Ford, RG, Jr.; Jesse Whitmer, OL/DL, 5-10, 230, Sr.; Walker Lowdermilk, OL/LB, MLB, So.; Rhett Pospichal, FS, Sr.; Gavin Ewers, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Colby Tinklin, OG/DE, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Drew Schmelzle, TE/LB, 6-4, 190, Jr.; Colby Buser, OLB, Sr. Conor Nicholl OL/DL, 6-2, 240, Sr.; Kaleb Grimm, WR/DE, 6-3, 170, Sr.; Andrew Frazee, RB/DB, 6-2, 170, Sr.; Brycen Hartley, OL/DL, 6-4, 220, Jr.; Cody Holthaus, OL/DL, 5-10, 175, Sr. Brent Maycock

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Page 102

SCOTT CITY

Scott City finished fourth in the final Class 3A Kpreps rankings after a 35-14 loss to Andale in the state quarterfinals. The Beavers captured the GWAC, earned sectional runner-up and opened the season with four straight shutouts, including a 24-0 road win versus rival Holcomb in Week 2. SC also collected a quality home win versus Colby (35-12) in Week 7 and beat Nickerson (38-0) and Beloit (34-7) in the playoffs before the loss at Andale. Coach Jim Turner is in his fourth season as head coach of the Beavers and his 31st year of coaching overall, his 25th at Scott City. The Beavers graduated multi-sport standouts Wyatt Hayes (Nebraska-Kearney wrestling) and Marshall Faurot (South Dakota track). Hayes rushed for 1,644 yards with 31 scores and had 66 tackles with seven sacks. Hayes, Faurot (3 INTs, 450 receiving yards) and offensive lineman Chase Cupp were first team all-state Kpreps 3A picks. Turner’s goals for his players are to “develop leadership” and “grow as a team.” Veteran QB Parker Gooden returns after two years as a starter, but may make the switch to running back in the Beavers run-first Wing T offense. Senior Brandon Winderlin is a versatile offensive weapon for the Beavers and three o-lineman also return. Last year, SC permitted just 8.5 points per contest,

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second-best in 3A to Andale (7.50). Scott City scored 40.2 points per contest, which stood fourth in the classification. Linebacker Cale Goodman will lead an experienced defense and could emerge as one of 3A’s best. Scott City has started at least 9-0 eight times in the last 11 years and has captured 33 district contests, according to Western Kansas News.

10-1 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 3A Great West Activities Conference Coach: Jim Turner (4th year, 28-5) Assistants: Brian Gentry, Landon Frank, Todd Richardson, Michael McEachern, Dakota Hayes Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 26 Returning starters: 10 Offense, 10 Defense Hunter Yager, HB/ILB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Parker Gooden, HB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Cale Goodman, ILB/FB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Jackson Lewis, OLB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Brandon Winderlin, FB/DE, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Caleb Vandegrift, DT, 5-8, 180, Sr.; Eli Amack, OG, 5-7, 175, Sr.; Izaac Miller, DT, 5-8, 220, Sr.; Harrison King, QB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Loren Faurot, HB/OLB, 5-10, 155, Sr.; Blaine Culp, SE/FS, 6-0, 160, Jr.; Kevin Serrano, CB, 5-8, 150, Jr.; Colten Cupp, OT, 6-0, 235, Jr.; Gabe Bowers, OG/DT, 5-10, 255, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

ST. GEORGE-ROCK CREEK

TOPEKA-HAYDEN

Mike Beam certainly deserved a better finale to his coaching career than what he got last year at Rock Creek. After compiling a 140-117 record in his first 26 years, Beam saw his stint end with an 0-9 thud. A difficult schedule, loss of playmaker Taybor Vetter late in the summer to a transfer and a young squad overall proved to be a daunting combination and the Mustangs couldn’t crack the win column, though they came awfully close to sending him out on a winning note, falling 22-20 to Haven in the season finale Only two other games were decided by single digits and seven of the losses came to playoff teams. Though the Mustangs will have a new face in charge, it will be a very familiar one. Shane Sieben takes over after having served as head coach of the baseball program for the past decade. Sieben has experienced a ton of success on the diamond, leading the Mustangs to the 2015 Class 4A Division II state championship and a runner-up finish at the 3A state tournament last spring, and hopes to carry that over to the gridiron. He’s got some decent pieces to work with as plenty of players got experience last year. Senior quarerback Charlie Killingsworth enters his third year starting under center and last year threw for 612 yards and four touchdowns and ran for 433 yards and four scores. He’ll need to cut down on his interceptions (10), especially with the Mustangs moving to a spread power offense this year. Leading rusher Bryant Golden also returns after rushing for 584 yards and seveon scores. Rock Creek returns all but one skill player from a year ago, but will have to fill three of five starters on the offensive line with seniors Christian Davis and Aaron Jilka the lone returners up front. The defense took a bigger hit with four of last year’s top-five tacklers graduating. The good news is leading tackler Connor Richards is back after making 91 stops a year ago. The unit will need to make big strides after giving up nearly 38 points per game a year ago. It also needs to improve its takeaway ability as the Mustangs only forced four turnovers last season. Sieben gets a quick baptism with Rock Creek opening the season against Class 2A state runner-up Riley County. The Mustangs only play three Mid-East League games before facing what last year was one of the toughest 3A districts.

A perennial contender for the Class 4A Division II title during its stay in that classifcation, Hayden figured to be in that same position in the new-look Class 3A a year ago. And for most of the season, Hayden had the look of a serious contender for the championship. After suffering early losses to Centennial League rivals Seaman and Washburn Rural, the Wildcats ripped through what was expected to be a challenging 3A district with relative ease. In five district games, Hayden gave up just two TDs and pitched three shutouts. The closest calls were by 20 or more points and the Wildcats entered the postseason on a roll. But after handling rival Holton 28-13 in the playoff opener, Hayden was handed a somewhat surprising early exit. Marysville jumped all over the Wildcats and ended a 7-3 season with a 36-14 rout of Hayden. The abrupt ending likely didn’t sit well with the Wildcats in the offseason and with a ton of starting experience coming back, Hayden should be a pretty hungry group in 2019. The Wildcats return nine starters from a defense that allowed just 11.1 points per game and gave up more than 14 points just twice — the playoff loss to Marysville and a 33-17 loss to Rural. All-3A lineman Daniel Hernandez will be missed, but junior linebacker Will DeVader led the team in tackles as a sophomore last year. Fellow junior Andrew Schmidtlein was a stalwart on both lines and five of the front eight return overall. Offensively, Hayden will have to replace quarterback Brady Bohannon, but there are plenty of weapons to ease his loss and the Wildcat ground game should be strong. Junior Desmond Purnell is a mult-faceted weapon in the backfield, while DeVader is the punishing runner. Junior receiver Trey Pivarnik had a big season as a sophomore with 31 catches for 440 yards and four scores and will be a big threat for whoever takes over under center for Bohannon. Line play should also be a strength with four starters back across the front, though building depth will be a key for veteran coach Bill Arnold, who has a 108-40 record in 12 seasons at Hayden. Hayden has a small senior class this year, but the junior class is talented and did a lot of heavy lifting as sophomores a year ago.

0-9 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 3A / Mid-East League Coach: Shane Sieben (1st year) Assistants: Monte Spiller, Garin Beam, Billy Golden, Patrick Bramhall, Tim Vettel Offense: Spread Power Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense, 4 Defense Charlie Killingsworth, QB, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Nick Gomez, HB/LB, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Christian Davis, OL/DL, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Skyler Forge, RB/LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Bryant Golden, RB/DB/K; Braedon LaRocque, WR/DB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Aaron Jilka, OL, 5-10, 195, Sr.; Connor Richards, HB/LB, 5-10, 185, Jr. Brent Maycock

7-3 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 3A / Centennial League Coach: Bill Arnold (13th year, 108-40; 20th overall, 164-57) Assistants: Wes Meier, Howard Tush, Eddie Kidd, Chuck Thompson, Raymond Gragg, Jordan Mullin Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 30 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 9 Defense Andrew Schmidtlein, OL/DL, 5-9, 235, Sr.; Tegan Abbey, OL, 6-1, 270, Sr.; Brody Hund, OL, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Desmond Purnell, RB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Trey Pivarnik, TE/ WE/DE, 6-3, 210, Jr.; Will DeVader, FB/LB, 5-11, 190, Jr.; T.C. Thompson, RB, 5-8, 165, Jr.; Jack Konrade, RB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Diego Carr, LB, 5-8, 190, Jr.; Cade Pavlik, CB, 6-3, 170, Sr.; Cole Chisham, OLB, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Skyler Specht, FS, 5-11, 150, Jr. BM

WAMEGO

Last year, new Wamego head coach Weston Moody brought in new coaches and new schemes for a team that returned only a handful of starters from 2017. The transition to all the changes went fairly well. Wamego started the season 3-1 and finished with a 5-4 record, making the playoffs before falling in the first round 34-20 to Perry-Lecompton. The highlight of the season, arguably, was a 41-34 victory over Holton in the final district game, one that saw the Red Raiders rally from a 28-14 halftime deficit. With the newness out of the way, Moody and the Red Raiders can set to building on the success of a year ago. Wamego will have to replace seven starters on offense and six on defense, including QB Ty Cooper, who had 1,600 yards of total offense and 24 TDs, and first-team all-NCKL d-lineman Logan Ebert. Senior Brad Sackrider, a starter at linebacker last year, takes over for Cooper at QB and will have two big-time weapons in seniors Taybor Vetter and Isiah Childs. A late arrival as a transfer from Rock Creek last year, Vetter had an immediate impact, amassing nearly 1,200 total rushing and receiving yards in earning all-league honors. Childs, a mid-year transfer from Manhattan, sat out during the spring but recorded impressive numbers at combines and verbally committed to play at Akron after he wraps up his high school career at Wamego. The Red Raiders will have good size up front with the return of linemen Austin Tebbutt (5-10, 255) and Alex Stutzman (5-10, 275). The defense will be strong in the middle with Sackrider, Riley Eveland and Porter Nowlin returning as starting linebackers with Eveland an honorable mention all-league pick. 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 3A North Central Kansas League Coach: Weston Moody (2nd year, 5-4) Assistants: Nathan Good, Brad Koehn, Jeff Suther, Kevin Bergstrom, Jake Lattimer, Kaden Vanderpool Offense: Spread Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 25 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Riley Eveland, LB, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Austin Tebbutt, OL, 5-10, 255, Sr.; Taybor Vetter, RB/WR/DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Porter Nowlin, LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Ryan Erickson, DB/WR, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Adler Pierson, DB/WR, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Alex Stutzman, OL, 5-10, 275, Jr.; Jack Watson, WR/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Lincoln Koehn, DL, 6-0, 215, Jr.; Cade Bergstrom, DL, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Brad Sackrider, QB/LB, 6-3, 205, Sr. Brent Maycock

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Wellsville emerged as one of the most consistent programs in Class 3A during Brad Burkdoll’s eightyear tenure as coach. The Eagles went 60-28 and were a regular in the playoffs, often making deep runs. Last year was an anomaly for the Eagles, who posted their first losing mark under Burkdoll, going 4-5 and missing out on the postseason for the first time in more than a decade. Burkdoll has stepped aside to focus on his athletic director duties, but the program should be in very capable hands as Mike Berg takes over. The veteran coach enjoyed a successful 19-year stint as head coach at Baldwin before resigning there after the 2016 season, one that included eight straight playoff appearances from 2007-14. Berg inherits a team that has a lot of unknowns entering the 2019 season. The bulk of last year’s offensive production has graduated, most notably dual-threat quarterback Zach Vance, who threw for 1,269 yards and 16 touchdowns and ran for a teamhigh 300 yards and six more scores. Leading receiver Jeff Ebeck is also gone and so are most of last year’s starting linemen. So what’s left? Well, senior back Anthony Signs was the team’s third-leading rusher last year, but had only 201 yards. Senior Luke Richards or junior Jackson Showalter are the top candidates to replace Vance at quarterback with Richards an all-league receiver two years ago before injuries limited him to just six games last year. Senior Chase Farley was third on the team in tackles last year and is expected to be the defensive leader this year. He also could see a bigger role in the offense as Berg will line up in multiple sets, but has been a ground-oriented kind of guy for much of his career. Sophomore lineman Eddie Lopez is a 300-pounder who can help clear the way, but Nick Graniewski is the only other starter back up front. 4-5 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 3A / Pioneer League Coach: Mike Berg (1st year; 20th overall, 117-79) Assistants: Duane McCarthy, Mark Messer, Jason Spradling Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Anthony Signs, Sr.; Chase Farley, Sr.; Dawson Kleitz, Jr.; Eddie Lopez, So.; Dominic Oropeza, Sr.; Luke Richards, Sr.; Nick Graniewski, Sr. BM the only other reciever on the team who caught a touchdown pass last year, catching 24 passes, for 364 yards, and one touchdown. Defensively, Kelly and senior Grant Dunham each had 36 tackles last season which was tied for second. Adler led the team with 82. The 385 points Trinity allowed last season was fourth most in class 3A. 1-8 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 3A Central Plains League Coach: Wes Miller (2nd year, 1-8) Assistants: N/A Offense: Spread Defense: 5-2 Returning starters: N/A Mark Hedstrom, WR/DB, Sr.; Jake Flesher, OL/DL, Sr.; Isaac Osborne, OL/DL, Sr.; Grant Dunham, DL, Sr.; Jackson May, OL/LB, Sr.; Joe Vigilius, RB/LB, Sr.; Ethan Rains, WR/DB, Sr.; EJ Cooper, WR/LB, Sr.; Cal Kelly, WR/DB, Sr. Gallagher Martin

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6-3 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 3A Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division IV Coach: Troy Black (1st year) Assistants: Bill Messamore, Markus Phox, Spencer Schooler, Jeff Boone Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 10 Offense, 11 Defense Charlie Goree, WR/DB, Jr.; Aidan Walsh, RB/LB, Sr.; Jacob Chugg, WR/DB, Jr.; Nate Voegeli, DB, Jr.; John Devore, DB, Jr.; Colton Weaver, OL, Sr.; Nick Herrman, OL/DL, Jr.; Nate Egan, OL, Sr.; Connor Allen, OL/DL, Sr.; Ibrahim Krichati, OL, Sr.; Clay Gagnon, K, Jr.; George Bunting, LB, Jr.; Jack Fox, TE/LB, Sr.; Michael Fair, DL, Jr.; Kobe Turner, DB, Jr.; Reagan Wetzel, P, Sr.; Jack Herrman, OL, Jr. CN

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WICHITA-TRINITY ACADEMY

Wichita Trinity had its worst season in a decade in 2018. At 1-8, it was not the way first-year head coach Wes Miller wanted to start with the program. The Knights had a few winnable games on the schedule, but the competition was brutal. According to PrepPowerIndex, Trinity faced the 14th toughest schedule out of 48 teams in 3A. The Knights had Andale (11-1 overall), Conway Springs (10-1), Chaparral (7-3), Wichita Collegiate (6-3), and Garden Plain (6-4) all on the schedule. The Knights limped to a 1-8 record, but did manage a 27-8 victory over Haven in Week 8. Trinity must replace starting quarterback Nate Adler, who threw for over 2,000 yards and led the team in rushing. Junior Ethan Penner had 12 passing and defensive line. All these guys started last year.” attempts last season in relief of Adler, completing six Collegiate switched to the 3-4 last season, and of them for 63 yards. Black believes defense will be the team’s strength. The Knights return their leading receiver in senior HM all-league defensive linemen Allen and Michael Mark Hedstorm. Hedstorm caught 42 passes, Fair are back. Starting linebacker Nick Herrman is for 665 yards, and five touchdowns. Cal Kelley is moving to nose guard. Walsh was honorable mention all-league inside linebacker, as was Chugg at defensive back. Six players who had secondary starts last year return. Junior kicker Clay Gagnon returns as an all-state honorable mention kicker. Collegiate is expected to go from 42 to 63 players. “This group is very focused and has big goals ahead of them,” Black said. “They are ready to get our program back to the level that those before them have established. “

WICHITA COLLEGIATE

Collegiate is 7-4, 5-5 and 6-3 in the last three years. Troy Black is in his 20th year at the school and has taken over as head coach from Mike Gehrer, who retired. Gehrer coached the Spartans in two different segments, from 1990-’05 and from 2012-’18. He helped Collegiate win state titles in 1994, 2000 and ’09 and take second in ’93 and ’15. Last year, with just four seniors, Collegiate finished second in district with a 4-1 record behind Andale. Collegiate averaged 30.1 points per contest and allowed 24.1. Two years ago, Collegiate delivered 25 points a game and allowed 24.4. Collegiate has plenty of experience, especially up front, and Bill Messamore returns as offensive coordinator. Messamore was the architect of many great Collegiate offenses, most notably the high-flying, record-breaking passing offense in ’09 that averaged 44.9 points a game on a 14-0 squad. Messamore went 61-18 as Collegiate’s head coach. Aidan Walsh is back at running back and Conner Allen and Nate Egan are both returning linemen. The trio was all honorable mention all-conference, along with wide receiver Jacob Chugg. The only major question is who will be the starting quarterback. Three candidates are expected to compete for the starting job. “Last year going into the season, we only had a handful of guys with varsity experience, but this year, it will be the opposite,” Black said. “We have a lot of guys who have played under the Friday night lights. We will have a lot of experience on both the offensive

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locations throughout Southwest Kansas!

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 104

Class 2A

1. Phillipsburg 2. Hoisington 3. Conway Springs 4. Rossville 5. Riley County Others: Garden Plain, Humboldt, Lakin, Maur Hill, Norton, Silver Lake By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Last fall, Phillipsburg enjoyed the best season in school history with a 13-0 record and Class 2A state title, the first perfect record and second title in Panther annals. Phillipsburg graduated four-year starting quarterback Trey Sides. He also started at quarterback as a freshman on the ’15 state squad. Sides, a four-year starting point guard, signed with NCAA Division I Jacksonville for basketball. Trey’s younger brother, Ty, was a key wide receiver the last two years. As a freshman, Ty played quarterback in Trey’s stead in the postseason when Trey was injured. Ty is expected to take over under center this season. Phillipsburg returns five offensive starters and six defensively, including multiple decorated senior linemen. Noah VanKooten was first team all-league on both sides. Senior Austin Miller is back at tight end and defensive line and was second team all-conference on offense and defense. Seniors Tyce Jerby and Parker Dibble return on both sides of the ball. The duo were honorable mention all-league offense. Sides was second team all-league defensive back, and comes back as the returner. Phillipsburg was ranked No. 1 throughout the season and finished second in scoring defense at 9.9 points per contest and third in offense at 43.5 points per game. The Panthers earned a bevy of quality wins, including a 4214 road victory in Week 3 at Smith Center, a two-time defending state champion. Phillipsburg defeated 2A’s Norton on the road, 56-20, the following week. In the playoffs, The Panthers defeated Lakin (41-0), Conway Springs (25-24) and again versus Hoisington (31-14) in the sub-state title game. In the championship, Phillipsburg shut out Riley County, 27-0.

Photo by Taylor Beeman

Photo by Derek Livingston

Noah VanKooten

KANSAS PREGAME CLASS 2A PRESEASON RANKINGS

Riley Philbern

Conor Haviland

12 PLAYERS TO WATCH Photo by Jacque Bretton

Bryant Banks [Southeast of Saline] 6-2, 208, RB/LB, Jr.; 657 total yards, 11 TDs in 2018 Andrew Bergmeier [Hutch Trinity] 5-10, 205, RB/LB, Jr.; 700 yards in 2017, injured in 2018 Kayden Christiansen [Lakin] 5-10, 185, RB/LB, Sr.; 1,022 yards, 14 TDs in 2018 Kody Davoren [Rossville] 6-2, 210, OL/DE, Sr.; Kpreps All-State offensive line Conor Haviland [Humboldt] 6-1, 185, RB/DB, Sr.; 1,600 yards, 32 TDs in 2018

All the 2A teams that Phillipsburg defeated should be contenders this season. “Again really excited about this year’s team,” Covington said. “Our schedule will be challenging but we feel like we have an opportunity to pick up from where we left off from last year. We feel like we have a great chance to compete with the best teams in this class if we stay healthy. Our young men had a tremendous off-season and summer. “We have to replace several outstanding players due to graduation but feel like the players that we have are ready after waiting for their turn to step up,” he added. “This team will look a little different offensively than those in the recent past but we feel like the changes made suit our personnel very well.” Hoisington finished 9-3 and was third in the final Class 2A poll. The Cardinals are 0-5 versus Phillipsburg since ’12, including 0-3 the last two seasons. Hoisington returns Wyatt Pedigo, a University of North Dakota commit and one of the state’s top two-way players. He had 222 carries for 2,101 yards and 29 scores. Pedigo led the team with 104 tackles, nine for loss. He was 2A Sports In Kansas Offensive Player of the Year. Junior Mason Haxton is back at quarterback, while senior offensive lineman Riley Philbern has a Kansas Wesleyan offer. Hoisington was No. 15 in 2A defense at 18.4 points per game, and No. 11 in offense at 33.5 points a contest. “My goal for this group would be for them to buy into focusing on little things throughout the summer,” coach Zach Baird said. “Having our seniors take ownership and teach our young guys by leading by example.” Norton had a rare down year to 4-5, but returns at least 65

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Here are 12 players to watch in Class 2A this fall:

Riley Philbern [Hoisington] 6-1, 267, OL/DL, Sr.; All-League, HM All-State in 2018 Tate Seabolt [Cimarron] 5-7, 185, RB, Jr.; 1,500 yards, 17 TDs in 2018 Abe Siebenmorgen [Maur Hill-Mount Academy] 6-4, 220, OL/LB, Sr.; 130 tackles in 2018 Noah VanKooten [Phillipsburg] 6-5, 260, OL/DL, Sr.; All-MCL, Three-year starter Dane Whalen [Osage City] 5-10, 230, DL, Jr.; 75 tkls., 29 TFLs, 7.5 sacks in 2018 Judson Wiltfong [Norton] 6-5, 215, OL/DL, Sr.; All-MCL, Fort Hays offer Peyton Winter [Conway Springs] 5-11, 160, RB/DB, Sr.; 825 yards, 4 INTs, HM All-State

percent of its rushing yards and receptions. The Bluejays return five of the top-six tacklers. Kade Melvin rushed for 569 yards and passed for 1,419. Lineman Judson Wiltfong has earned a Fort Hays offer. Norton fell to Lakin, 44-14, in the playoffs. The Broncs went 8-2, had a wins improvement for a fourth straight season and captured its first playoff game since ’99. Coach Chris Bamberger returns lineman Hadley Panzer, a K-State commit, and 1,000-yard back Kayden Christiansen. Riley County (10-3), Humboldt (10-1), Conway Springs (101) and Silver Lake (10-1) also earned double-digit victories. Rossville was 8-3, Cimarron finished 8-2, and Maur Hill was 8-2. Several of the squads return outstanding quarterbacks, including RC’s Garrett Harmison, CS’ Collin Koester, and Maur Hill’s Jack Caudle. Humboldt’s Conor Haviland and Cimarron’s Tate Seabolt each exceeded 1,500 rushing yards. In the quarterfinals, in one of the season’s most memorable games, Riley County defeated rival Silver Lake, 40-34, in OT after trailing by 13 points with two minutes left. Harmison delivered a school record 1,930 yards. RC advanced to the state championship game for the first time in 25 years after a semifinal win versus Humboldt. The Cubs had the best finish in school annals. Silver Lake returns legendary coach C.J. Hamilton, the state’s all-time leader in victories. However, SL took massive graduation losses, including its quarterback Mason Griffin and leading rusher Christian Stoner, who had more than half of the team’s rushing yards. Just nine of the squad’s 118 receptions came from non-seniors. Senior Gideon Remer is back after he was second on the squad with 50 tackles.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

ANTHONY/HARPER-CHAPARRAL

The son of a renowned head coach is looking to cement his own legacy at Anthony/HarperChaparral High School. Jordan Moshier, who played for his dad, Scott, at Meade, and most recently assisted him at Wichita North, takes over for Justin Burke at Chaparral. Burke left the Roadrunner program to join Brent Pfeifer’s staff at Maize South. Before Moshier assisted his father at Wichita North, he gameplanned against him as an offensive coordinator at Southwestern Heights. Moshier has learned a lot from his father who led Meade to state championships in 2010 and 2012. Now, for the first time in his coaching career, it’s the younger Moshier’s time to shine. Moshier is taking over a Chaparral program that hasn’t finished under .500 since 2013, but the Roadrunners are thin on returning starters. In fact, Chaparral returns just one starter on offense and two on defense. With all the uncertainty facing Chaparral this year, Moshier is taking an optimistic approach into the season. “Our team goal for the season is to come together as a team and grow every single day,” Moshier said. “We will strive to always take steps forward as we introduce a new offensive and defensive scheme as well as having a plan to grow the best young men we possibly can. I am excited to see the leaders that emerge in our program and for the process to begin.” The Roadrunners are replacing two Burke’s this season — a head coach and a standout quarterback. Jake Burke threw for 1,474 yards and 23 touchdowns while rushing for 1,077 yards and 17 touchdowns. The 2018 Kansas Pregame coverboy graduated and will head to Pittsburg State to continue his football and academic career. On offense, Chaparral returns offensive lineman Gage Berry. On defense, linebackers Iverson Bello and Eric Helms are the returners. Bello and Helms are two of the best linebackers in the area, however, after each recorded over 100 tackles last season. For Chaparral to continue the success it saw under Burke, the Roadrunners will need new faces to step up immediately. “Our keys for success are for a new group of leaders to step up inside of our team to replace the seniors and leaders that have moved on,” Moshier said.

ARMA-NORTHEAST

Northeast-Arma technically snapped a 29-game losing streak in the final week of last season, but it has still been a long, long time since the Vikings have legitimately won a game. First-year head coach David Pitts is ready to change that. The Vikings went 1-8 last season with their lone win coming via a forfeit against Oskaloosa. Northeast went 0-9 in 2016 and 2017. The last time the Vikings won a football game decided on the field was Oct. 9, 2015 against Southeast-Cherooke. Pitts has 26 years of coaching experience under his belt and is ready for the challenge of rebuilding a program. “As the new head coach, I look forward to the challenge of building on the foundation already established at Arma,” Pitts said. “I will bring in some discipline and rigor to the program to help move it forward and promote unity as a team.” Junior Karter Dugan is back under center after an up-and-down sophomore season at quarterback. Dugan threw for 1,139 yards and five touchdowns, but also threw 13 interceptions and completed 49 percent of his passses. Dugan was the team’s leading rusher last season, running for 209 yards and two touchdowns. The Vikings graduated their top two running backs, so expect a running back by committee approach with seniors Josh Dickey, Logan Jenkins, Kenneth Atchison, Jasper Atchison, and possibly more. The Vikings are a senior-heavy team, especially in the trenches with seniors Elijah Rux, Hunter Jackson, and Keatyn O’Dell leading the way up front. It’s also a senior class that has never truly experienced a win. Pitts says he will lean on his hungry seniors this year. “The team has had some ups and downs over the past three years,” Pitts said. “I think our strength lines in our senior class to come together and push for a better season to end their high school career on. They have worked hard this summer on weights and conditioning and are excited to get their senior season started.”

ATCHISON-MAUR HILL-MT. ACADEMY

Brandon Wilkes is back. After previously serving as head coach of Maur Hill in 2010-11, Wilkes is back for another stint. And this time, the program is in much better shape than when he took over as head coach the first time. In 2010, the Ravens were in the midst of a 29game losing streak, which he ended with a victory in his second game as head coach. Maur Hill went 2-7 in his first year and then 4-5 in his second year before he turned the program over to Jermaine Monroe. In the seven years since, Maur Hill has gone 42-22 with five straight seasons of seven or more victories. Last year, the program hit a high-water mark, going 8-2 and winning its first playoff game since 1992 with a 27-18 win over Mission Valley in the Class 2A postseason opener. Monroe left to become defensive coordinator at Topeka West and leaves Wilkes plenty to work with in his return. The Ravens return 24 lettermen, including seven starters on offense and six on defense. Wilkes will have one of the top QBs not only in the state in senior Jack Caudle. A starter since the first game of his freshman year, Caudle has thrown for at least 1,500 yards all three seasons and last year went for 1,885 yards and 21 TDs. For his career, Caudle has thrown for 5,121 yards and 63 TDs, completing 57.5 percent of his passes. He added the run dimension to his game last year, rushing for 341 yards and eight TDs and his dual-threat ability will challenge opposing defenses. The Ravens will have to break in an entirely new receiving corps after graduation claimed All-2A pick Tate Vowels (943 yards, 11 TDs) and two others who had at least 240 yards, but the ground game should be more productive with three of the top-four rushers back including junior back Andrew Schwinn. He only had 369 yards in the Ravens’ spread attack and Wilkes will look for more production from that aspect of the offense. Three of five starting linemen also return, led by senior Abe Siebenmorgen, who also headlines the defense after making a team-high 130 tackles last year. Schwinn added 101 tackles and four of last year’s top-six tacklers return overall. Maur Hill’s defense was stout a year ago, allowing 1-8 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 2A just 16 points per game while the offense put up Three Rivers League 32.4 points a contest. The only losses were a 14-0 Coach: David Pitts (1st year) decision to Jackson Heights that denied the Ravens Assistants: Randy Adams, Anthony Scholes, Tanner the Northeast Kansas League title and a 21-14 loss Pitts Offense: Spread Defense: 3-5 to Rossville in the second round of the playoffs. Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A 8-2 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 2A Joshua Dickey, RB, 5-7, 150, Sr.; Elijah Rux, OL, 7-3 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 2A Northeast Kansas League 5-9, 178, Sr.; Logan Jenkins, RB, 5-6, 140, Sr.; Central Plains league Coach: Brandon Wilkes (1st year; 9th overall) Hunter Jackson, OL, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Keatyn O’Dell, Coach: Jordan Moshier (1st year) Assistants: Todd Caudle, Doug Bennett OL, 6-4, 225, Sr.; Kenneth Atchison, RB, 6-1, Assistants: Jody Iams, Joel Gerber, JC Zahradnik, Offense: Spread Defense: 30 145, Sr.; Jasper Atchison, RB, 6-1, 145, Sr.; Cole Clay Wilcox, Tyler Clubine Returning lettermen: 24 Richard, QB, 5-8, 155, Jr.; Garrett Walker, RB, 5-6, Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Offense: Shotgun Wing Defense: 3-4 140, Jr.; Zach Conister, OL, 6-2, 260, Jr.; Karter Returning lettermen: 8 Jack Caudle, QB/S, 6-3, 205, Sr.; Abe Dugan, QB, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Noah Hammer, RB, 5-6, Siebenmorgen, OL/LB, 6-4, 220, Sr.; Dylan Smith, Returning starters: 1 Offense, 2 Defense RB/WR/LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Blaine Kramer, OL/DL, Gage Berry, OL, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Iverson Bello, 5-4, 150, Jr.; Gage Cronister, OL, 5-8, 260, Jr.; Allen Adelman, RB, 5-6, 150, Jr.; Eric Smith, RB, 5-6, 145, Sr.; Andrew Schwinn, RB/LB, Jr.; Shane Sachse, OL/ 160, Sr.; Eric Helms, 5-11, 190, Sr. So.; Jeremy Dickey, OL, 5-9, 240, So.; Dominick DL, Jr.; Brody Mispagel, WR/DB, Jr. Brent Maycock Gallagher Martin Neary, RB, 5-6, 150, So. Gallagher Martin

CHEROKEE-SOUTHEAST

As is the case with a lot of teams in football, there was a thin line between a winning season and losing season for Southeast in 2018. The Lancers went 4-5 last year with an eight-point loss at Plesanton, a two-point loss to Jayhawk-Linn, and a 14-point loss to Riverton. The Lancers ended last year on a three-game losing streak, including a 28-6 loss to Osage City in the first round of the 2A playoffs. Southeast’s 2018 season was the best season the Lancers have had in a long time. Before defeating Uniontown to open the season last year, Southeast hadn’t won a football game since Oct. 10, 2014. The Lancers snapped a losing streak that stretched three seasons, and it appears sixth-year head coach Jerrad Hansen has the program on the right track. “The best part of last year was learning to compete and winning some football games,” Hansen said. “We also made the playoffs for the first time in 10 years. The biggest challenge was staying focused and consistent every day and every game.” The Lancers only graduated three seniors last year and welcome back the majority of their offensive and defensive production. Senior Bryce Peterson is expected to start at quarterback after splitting time with Brett Malle, who has since graduated. Peterson rushed for 247 yards and threw for 119 more, but those numbers should increase this year. The Lancers feature a solid running back duo in junior Zaden Hendricks and senior Jakob Tavernaro.

Hendricks rushed for 536 yards and also had 294 receiving yards while Tavernaro rushed for 291 yards. On defense, both Hendricks and Tavernaro recorded 64 tackles and forced two fumbles apiece from their linebacker spots. Defensive back Reece Jacobs had a team-high five interceptions. Defensive linemen Micah Uber, Ty Cummins, and Dan Cheney, who all double as offensive linemen, combined for 88 tackles. Now that the losing streak is over and Southeast has begun to taste success, the program is ready to take another step forward in 2019. “We have to take it one day at a time in order to be successful,” Hansen said. 4-5 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 2A / Three Rivers League Coach: Jerrad Hansen (6th year, 7-36) Assistants: Nick Cheney, Ryan Wydick Offense: Multiple Defense: 6-2 Stack Monster Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 11 Offense, 8 Defense Garrett Evans, WR/DB, 5-7, 140, Sr.; Bryce Peterson, QB/DB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Reece Jacobs, WR/ DB, 6-0, 150, Sr.; Hunter Newcomb, TE, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Jakob Tavernaro, RB/LB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Zaden Hendricks, RB/LB, 6-0, 160, Jr.; Micah Uber, OL/ DL, 6-0, 270, Jr.; Ty Cummins, OL/DL, 5-8, 210, Jr.; Carter Westervelt, OL, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Blaise Prewitt, OL, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Dan Cheney, OL/DL, 5-8, 210, Sr. Gallagher Martin

BELLE PLAINE

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Nothing came easy for Belle Plaine in 2018. The Dragons went to overtime three times and played five games within a touchdown or less. While Belle Plaine won two of three in overtime and three of five games decided by seven points or less, the Dragons still finished under .500 with a 4-5 record. Belle Plaine began the year with an overtime loss at Inman, 37-36. After a lopsided loss to Kingman, the Dragons rattled off three straight wins and four of five. However, back-to-back losses to Douglass and Hutch Trinity ended their season on a dissapointing note. The Dragons will not be short on returning talent in head coach Colton Koenigs’ first season with the program. Belle Plaine will be replacing senior quarterback Bo Gooch and the team’s second leading rusher in Taylor Douglas, but leading rusher Luke Baker is back to help lead the offense. Junior Eli Wiseman is listed at running back, but he was one of the team’s leading receivers last season. The Dragons also return juniors Tim Bible and Austin Hilton at receiver. Belle Plaine lists four linemen as returning starters: senior Trevor Stanley, junior Brycent Ashley, junior Enrique Montano, and sophomore Nolan Reynolds. Stanley, Montano, and Reynolds play defensive line as well while Ashley plays linebacker. Belle Plaine ranked 30th out of 48 teams in 3A according to PrepPowerIndex. The schedule should be manageable, as the Dragons ranked 34th in strength of schedule last year. A repeat trip to the playoffs should be attainable for the Dragons, who finished third in District 5 last season behind Douglass (7-2 overall) and Fredonia (5-4 overall). The Dragons lost at Fredonia, 28-23, in a game that would have given Belle Plaine a better draw in the first round of the playoffs had they won. Eureka (3-6), Cherryvale (3-6), and Neodesha (2-7) round out the district. 4-5 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 2A Central Plains League Coach: Colton Koenigs (1st season) Assistants: Storm Scott, Blake Pontius Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Eli Wiseman, RB/DB, Jr.; Tim Bible, WR/DB, Jr.; Luke Baker, RB/LB, Sr.; Trevor Stanley, OL/DL, Sr.; Nolan Reynolds, OL/DL, So.; Brycent Ashley, OL/ LB, Jr.; Enrique Montano, OL/DL, Jr.; Austin Hilton, WR/LB, Jr.; Jaxson Carriker, RB/DL, Jr.; Braydon Stephenson, WR/DL, Jr. Gallagher Martin

CHERRYVALE

Cherryvale had its stretch of five consecutive seasons with a winning record snapped in 2018. The Chargers went 3-6 last season after going 7-3 the season prior. The Chargers began the season 2-1, with wins over Leon-Bluestem and Erie, but proceeded to lose five of their final six games with a 28-12 win over Neodesha the only bright spot. The Chargers should be much improved this season. Head coach Harry Hester, who is entering his 17th year with the program, lists 15 total players returning with starting experience on either defense, offense or both. Hester believes his team missed opportunities last season and he hopes an experienced squad will make those plays this fall. “We feel that we were five plays away from being 6-3,” Hester said. “Hopefully those provide us with the experience we need in the future to help us make those plays.” Despite an abundance of returning starters, the Chargers only have seven seniors. After leading the team in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns, senior Gavin Hooper will make the transition to quarterback. Hooper also handled the team’s kicking and punting responsibilities and will be counted on for leadership in the secondary as well. The Chargers must replace standout running back Garrett Novotny, who rushed for 783 yards and 11 touchdowns. Look for seniors Wyatt Raida and Wyatt Gillman to compete for carries.

On the offensive line, the Chargers return six linemen with starting experience. Senior Seth Mahurin earned All-Tri Valley League honors at offensive line and linebacker last season. Hester has plenty of options on defense. The Chargers return six defensive linemen, two linebackers, and four defensive backs who started a game last season. Cherryvale should be able to compete for a playoff spot in District 5 which features Douglass, Fredonia, Belle Plaine, Eureka and Neodesha. The Chargers went 1-4 in district last year, finishing fifth out of six teams. “Our kids are excited to get back on the field and compete,” Hester said. 3-6 in 2018 / 2A / Tri-Valley league Coach: Harry Hester (17th year, 84-71) Assistants: Aaron Rehmert, Chad Knight, Alex Mese, Drew Charles, Sonny Mahurin, Ray Leedy, Kyle Groff Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 14 Offense, 13 Defense Gavin Hooper, WR/QB/CB, Sr.; Zaine Lantz, WR/S, Sr.; Seth Mahurin, OL/LB, Sr.; Wyatt Raida, RB/LB, Sr.; Wyatt Gillman, RB/TE/DE, Sr.; Cord Dodson, OL/ DE, Sr.; Chet Linn, WR/CB, Jr.; Bryce Salle, OL/DE, Jr.; Brayden Bigley, OL/DT, Jr.; Noah Stoddard, WR/ CB, Jr.; Kolybn Hooper, OL/DE, Jr.; Jesse Booe, WR, Jr.; Jacob Bone, OL/DL, So.; Briggs Adkinson, WR, So.; Gavin Strickland, LB, So. Gallagher Martin

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

CIMARRON

Two years ago, Cimarron hired Greg Koenig as head coach after he enjoyed a successful 11-year run as the Beloit head coach. Mike Schartz, and his wife, both Cimarron natives, moved back home after a lengthy stint in Wichita. Schartz served as a leading assistant during Wichita Heights’ rise with coach Rick Wheeler and was head coach at Campus and Wichita Southeast. Schartz contacted Koenig, and said he would love to join the staff. Schartz took over the weights program and served as defensive coordinator. Before the 2017 playoffs, Koenig said Schartz has been “true to his word” of being “the best, most loyal assistant that you could imagine.” Cimarron posted records of 7-3 and 8-2, before Koenig (138-84 overall in his head coaching career) left this summer when his wife earned a position in Colorado Springs. Schartz took over as head coach in mid-summer. Cimarron enjoyed an excellent season last year scoring 46.6 points per game and allowing 14.1. The Bluejays were No. 2 in scoring offense and No. 6 in the 48-team Class 2A in scoring defense – its best scoring defense since at least 2006. Cimarron opened the season with a 27-20 road loss to Elkhart, then won eight in a row – including a key 18-14 road district/league game versus Lakin in Week 6 – and then lost to Hoisington, 41-18, in the playoffs. This marked the second straight year, and fourth time in five years, Cimarron fell to Hoisington in the playoffs. Junior running back Tate Seabolt, also one of the state’s top wrestlers, is back after he had 211 carries for 1,531 yards and 17 rushing scores. Junior fullback Hunter Renick picked up an offer from Butler Community College at the Sharp Performance Top Prospect Camp in Salina in late June and is incredibly strong. He had 38 carries for 275 yards and six scores, along with six catches for 97 yards and a touchdown. The defense will have some question marks as five of the top-six tacklers graduated. Senior Peyton Marshall is one of the state’s better returners with 22 total returns for 603 yards, and one kick and punt return touchdown apiece. Cimarron committed 18 turnovers and was plus-1 in turnover margin. 8-2 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 2A / Hi-Plains League Coach: Mike Schartz (1st year) Assistants: Ashley Seabolt, Iric Mawhirter, Cade Albert Offense: N/A Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 23 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Tate Seabolt, RB, 5-8, 175, Jr.; Seth Ridenour, LB, 6-1, 185, Jr.; Hunter Renick, RB, 6-1, 245, Jr.; David Harman, DL, 5-9, 245, Sr.; Bryan Chavez, OL, 5-11, 225, Sr.; Kyler Henry, TE/DE, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Payton Marshall, DB, 6-0, 160, Sr. Conor Nicholl

CONWAY SPRINGS

The Conway Springs High School football team is coming off a season in which the Cardinals were on the verge of their second state championship this decade. Conway Springs began the year 10-0 and collided with fellow 10-0 juggernaut Phillipsburg in the 2A state quarterfinals. The Cardinals fell 25-24 in a game that went the distance, while Phillipsburg won its semifinal and championship games by at least three scores. Conway Springs can still be good enough to make a deep run in the 2A playoffs, but replacing all-state selections Chase Ast, Daniel Becker, and Zach Mercer will be one of the biggest challenges facing the Cardinals this year. “This team has experience and a lot of athleticism,” head coach Matt Biehler said. “We will need to develop offensive and defensive lines to compete in the upper level of 2A.” Biehler is entering his 11th year as head coach, and he is three wins away from 100 at Conway Springs. With the talent on this year’s roster, it shouldn’t take him very long to get there. The defense should be strong with four returners who recorded at least 72 tackles last year. The linebacker trio of Collin Koester, Joshua Koester, and Jonathan Wright earned All-Central Plains League honors, while defensive back Peyton Winter had four interceptions as a defensive back. “The Red Rage defense will be led by the linebackers and secondary,” Biehler said. “They must continue to tackle well and make decisions tough on quarterbacks.” On offense, Collin Koester and Winter are as good of a quarterback-running back duo as there is in the CPL. Koester ran for 1,251 yards and passed for 429 more, while Winter rushed for 825 yards and was first-team All-CPL. “The Cardinal Wing offense will look to rely heavy on the rushing attack and utilize the passing ability of Koester,” Biehler said. “He will have many athletic weapons to work with.” Dawson Martin will anchor the offensive line, but the Cardinals are thin at that position. Biehler knows the offensive and defensive linemen will be the biggest question marks. “[The] offensive and defensive lines will need new faces to step up and play physical,” Biehler said.

Working on a string of five straight 6-3 seasons, Council Grove couldn’t extend that streak to six in a row and the program suffered its first losing season since 2012. The Braves finished with a disappointing 2-7 mark with the only wins coming against Central Heights and Horton. Council Grove will turn to a new head coach to get back to its winning ways in 2019 as Nathan Teichgraeber has moved to Flint Hills League rival West Franklin after four years at the helm of the Braves. Taking over is Butch Hayes, who spent the past four years as an assistant coach at Rock Creek. Hayes brings head coaching experience to the table, spending eight years as head coach at Ellis. He compiled a 48-34 mark while butting heads with some of the top small-school programs in the state in Smith Center and Phillipsburg. Hayes inherits a team that has plenty of experience returning despite graduating 10 players off last year’s squad, including four players who earned all-league honors of some kind. Six starters are back on offense and seven return on defense. A huge key will be getting back senior linebacker/ running back Trey Marshall. Marshall blew out his knee in the season-opener last year and missed the remainder of the season, leaving a huge void on both sides of the ball. He’s expected to be the backfield workhorse in Hayes’ new spread offense with junior Hadyn Beiling returning at quarterback. The other skill spots will need to be filled, but the Braves will return six linemen who saw significant time a year ago, led by seniors Peyton Tischhauser and Wyatt Buchman and sophomore Koen Hula, who earned all-league honors as a freshman. Council Grove struggled at times offensively last year, scoring 98 of its 168 points in the two victories. The defense allowed at least 12 points in every game and 20 or more eight times, but Marshall’s return along with senior linebacker Brodey King should allow the Braves to improve on that side of the ball. The schedule last year was a bear, with the newlook district including 2A state runner-up Riley County and quarterfinalist Rossville. The Braves open with 3A foe Burlington before three straight league games against Central Heights, Osage City and Mission Valley.

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DOUGLASS

Kelley Sayahnejad enjoyed his first taste of success at Douglass High School in 2018 after his Bulldogs went 7-2 and made the playoffs. Sayahnejad won eight games in his first three years combined before nearly matching that in year four — at 7-2, Douglass had its best season since 1996. The senior class that led Douglass to three straight state appearances and back-to-back district championships has now graduated. The Bulldogs will miss their presence all over the field, especially with the departure of all-state running back Zach Dressler. “Replacing his production and durability will definitely be a challenge,” Sayahnejad said. Although the Bulldogs only return four starters, they return 15 lettermen. For that reason, Sayahnejad is optimistic that the returning experience is ready to continue Douglass’ success. “Our four returning starters will be key to our success this season,” Sayahnejad said. “We are excited for what the future holds.” The Bulldogs have three returning senior starters who will have big roles this year. Keylan Jones is almost always on the field. He will start at receiver and defensive back while also serving as the team’s kicker and punter. Kyiowa Greenfield is the team’s top returning defensive linemen and a returning offensive linemen along with Isaiah Wasson. Cole Martin is only a junior, but he’s been starting since his freshman year. Sayahnejad says he is becoming a playmaker from his linebacker position. Sayahnejad says sophomores Joe Martin, Dalton Hilyard and Matt Reynolds are players to watch. “Joe and Matt had strong freshmen years finishing fourth and second respectively in the 2A state powerlifting meet,” Sayahnejad said. “Dalton and Matt will both contribute on both sides of the ball this season.” It is no secret that Douglass will appear to be in a rebuild in 2019, but Sayahnejad is optimistic. 2-7 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 2A / Flint Hills League “We have some talented young players that need Coach: Butch Hayes (1st year; 9th overall, 48-34) 10-1 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 2A Assistants: Steve Casey, Blake Gehring, Jacob Koch the experience of playing games on Friday nights,” Central Plains League Sayahnejad said. “Gaining the experience will have Offense: Spread Defense: 3-5 Coach: Matt Biehler (11th year, 97-16) some ups and downs, but we are excited for the Returning lettermen: 18 Assistants: Brent Martens, Gregg Hullinger, Ryan Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense direction of the program.” King, Darrin Seiwert, Brent Andra Trey Marshall, RB/LB, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Brodey King, 7-2 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 2A Offense: Single Wing Defense: 4-4 TE/LB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Peyton Tischhauser, OL/DL, Returning lettermen: 14 6-0, 200, Sr.; Wyatt Buchman, OL/DL, 6-7, 285, Sr.; Central Plains League Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Matt Maxson, TE, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Hunter Marsh, OL, Coach: Kelley Sayahnejad (5th year, 15-23) Collin Koester, QB/LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Peyton Winter, 5-9, 200, Sr.; Cooper Blackledge, DB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Assistants: Phil Keys, Don Patterson, Darby Jones RB/DB, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Joshua Koester, TE/LB, 6-1, Jagger Elstun, LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Hadyn Bieling, QB, Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 5-10, 160, Jr.; Corbyn Miller, DB, 5-7, 135, Jr.; Jesus Returning lettermen: 15 165, Sr.; Jonathan Wright, RB/LB, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Solis, LB, 5-8, 180, Jr.; Ben Bolen, OL, 5-8, 200, Jr.; Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense Dawson Martin, OL, 5-11, 260, Sr. Keylan Jones, WR/DB/K/P, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Kyiowa Gallagher Martin Matt Maas, OL, 5-10, 205, Jr.; Koen Hula, OL/DL, Greenfield, OL/DL, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Isiah Wasson, OL, 6-2, 220, So. GM Brent Maycock 6-0, 220, Sr.; Cole Martin, LB, 6-1, 170, Jr. line starters in senior Robert Gwartney and junior Aiden Williams. Senior Dawson Bertrand also returns after starting on the offensive line last season. Atchison County took some baby steps in Corey center after playing receiver last year, but an injury Like the offense, the defense returns six starters. Thomas’ second season, going from winless marks this summer could keep him from playing this seaThe Rams return three defensive linemen, two in 2016 and 2017 to a 2-7 record last year. The son. This could force sophomore Kieran Courter into linebackers, and four members of the secondary Tigers opened the season with a resounding 46-0 varsity action early. Though Courter is undersized at who saw significant varsity time last season. win over Oskaloosa that ended a 19-game losing just 5-9, 145, Thomas has high expectations for his young quarterback. McCollim is excited for the start of the season and streak before dropping six straight. The only other win was a 50-20 rout of Horton and The only other returning starter is senior Marcus believes his team can win in the playoffs. Atchison County wound up getting outscored 335-76 Hetherington, who will team with Myers and Smith to “We have a very talented group of athletes in its seven losses. But it was still an improvement give the Tigers a solid linebacking corps. that I believe gives us the potential to compete after giving up 414 points in 2017. The line will be young and small with no player over for a league and district title and put us in a The move to the Northeast Kansas League played 200 pounds. position to win playoff games, which is always our a bit of a factor in the improvement with the Tigers Myers is the lone returner who earned all-league goal,” McCollim said. “If we can play disciplined, fundamentally-sound football this season, the sky not having to butt heads with the larger programs in honors a year ago and is one of nine seniors on the their former league. roster. Most of those have played in some fashion is the limit.” Thomas would love to keep the momentum going for the past two seasons, so Thomas has decent and will have to do it with quite a few new faces in experience to work with as he looks to get closer 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 2A starting roles. Only four starters are back for the to a winning mark for the program for the first time Northeast Kansas League Tigers and the team must replace leading rusher since 2012. Coach: Pat McCollim (8th year, 34-35) Shawn Boos (605 yards, 9 TDs) and quarterback Assistants:Steve Watkins, Chris Langley, Sisco Matt Oswalt (552 yards, 3 TDs) as well as most of 2-7 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 2A Garcia Offense: Flexbone Defense: 5-2 its linemen. Northeast Kansas League Returning lettermen: 11 Seniors Tucker Smith and Trystin Myers return to Coach: Corey Thomas (3rd year, 2-16) Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense the backfield after each rushed for more than 450 Assistants: Mitch Oswald, Paul Courter Robert Gwartney, OL/DE, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Caullan yards last season. Smith finished with 471 yards and Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-3 Thompson, WR/DB, 5-7, 145, Sr.; Caden Raymos, four touchdowns while Myers had 456 yards and five Returning lettermen: 12 WR/DE, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Jake Heckman, RB/LB, 5-10, scores. The duo also led the Tigers in receiving with Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense 190, Jr.; Nate Wilburn, WR/DB, 5-8, 145, Jr.; Aiden a combined 400 yards. Tucker Smith, RB/LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Trystin Myers, Williams, OL/LB, 5-8, 165, Jr.; Keaton Comer, RB/ Myers led the defense with 80.5 tackles while RB/LB, 6-2,180, Sr.; Marcus Hetherington, FB/LB, DB, 6-1, 195, Jr.; Dawson Bertrand, OL/DL, 6-0, Smith added 50. 5-9, 185, Sr. Brent Maycock 200, Sr.; Devin Stutz, WR/DB, 5-8, 155, So. GM Senior Levi Navinskey was a possible starter under

EASTON-PLEASANT RIDGE

Pleasant Ridge enjoyed its first winning season since 2015 last year, going 5-4 but falling in the first round of the 2A playoffs to Rossville, 36-14. Pleasant Ridge went 5-0 against teams at or below .500, but went 0-4 against teams that finished with a winning record. Eighth-year head coach Pat McCollim feels like the program is headed in the right direction, but his team still has higher aspirations. “We really feel like we took a big step with our program last season and we closed the gap between ourselves and some of the perianal top programs in the state by playing Nemaha Central and Rossville close,” McCollim said, “but we still came up short of our goal of winning playoff games.” Replacing quarterback Colton Comer, who threw for 1,009 yards and 11 touchdowns and rushed for 806 yards and another 11 touchdowns, will be the biggest priority. Junior Keaton Comer has been starting since his freshman season, but this year he will move from running back to quarterback. McCollim describes him as a gifted athlete with a good arm, but his mechanics are still improving. Comer rushed for 154 yards and a touchdown last season. He was also the team’s leading receiver with 377 yards and four touchdowns. Junior Jake Heckman is the team’s leading returning rusher after scampering for 355 yards and two touchdowns last season. The Rams also return a pair of two-year offensive

COUNCIL GROVE

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221 N. Douglas Ellsworth, KS 67439

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14 512 Kunkle Dr.

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Things were good for Mission Valley at the start of Attorneys & Couselors At Law Peterson & Kasper, Peterson & Kasper, LLC Justin LLC Duncan’s debut season as head coach. The Vikings got out ofCounselors the gate fast, starting the season Attorneys and Counselors Attorneys and 785-472-3155 4-0, averaging 32.5 points per game while also at Law at Law 221 N. Douglas 221 N. Douglas Ellsworth, KS 67439 Ellsworth, KS 67439

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Two years ago, Ellsworth finished 6-3, captured the NCAA league title with a 5-0 mark, and permitted 21.7 points a contest, the best for the program since 2010. The Bearcats had a four-win decrease last fall to 2-7. Ellsworth allowed 28 points an outing and scored 20.4 points a game, a slight decrease from 24.4 scored per contest the year prior. A key difference came in close games. In ’18, Ellsworth fell 24-13 at Russell in Week 1, 9-7 at Sacred Heart in Week 3, and 14-13 versus Minneapolis in Week 4. Ellsworth defeated Republic County, 55-22, and TMP, 48-0, both home contests. In 2017, Ellsworth finished 1-1 in one-score games and 3-1 in contests within 14 points. The Bearcats have a significant number of key returners. Senior quarterback Morgan Kelley returns after he completed 93 of 184 passes for 991 yards with an 8/6 TD/INT ratio. All but 15 of the team’s 735 rushing yards came from non-seniors. However, Ellsworth graduated the top-three receivers. Of the team’s 40 players, just six were seniors last year. This fall, Ellsworth is expecting 10 seniors. Senior Tyler Walford (6-4, 265) leads a group of experienced linemen and is also one of 3-2-1A’s top wrestlers. Senior Clayton Vague was a first team all-league player in ’18, though was picked as a lineman and will likely make the switch to the backfield this year. Vague was voted team MVP last year and Homolka describes him as a “tone setter” and “quiet leader.” Linebacker Avery Haxton is the only non-senior returning to the starting line-up after winning a starting job last year as a sophomore. “We were young in many spots last year, which gave us an opportunity to get experience,” third-year coach Josh Homolka said. “This should be valuable experience for those players who are returning for us. In 2017, we were very heavy on senior leadership, which resulted in a conference championship. We will again be heavy on seniors. If they can harness the leadership aspect we will have a chance to really compete.”

3-6 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 2A Central Prairie League Coach: Alex Birney (3rd year, 5-13) Assistants: Monte Doll, Luke Keller, Trevor Bieberle Offense: Multiple Spread Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Kyler Doll, QB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; David Hammeke, WR/ DB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Ryan Niles, WR/DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Dylan White, OL/DL, 6-0, 255, Sr.; Woodson Corbett, OL/DL, 6-0, 260, Sr.; Aiden Ricker, TE/LB, 5-11, 160, Jr.; Cameron Stevenson, OL/DL, 5-10, 210, Jr.; Lane Klepper, WR/DB, 5-11, 150, Jr. Gallagher Martin

2-7 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 2A North Central Activities Association Coach: Josh Homolka (3rd year, 8-10) Assistants: Jason McWilliams, Tanner Rippen, Joe Schrock Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Luke Dunn, TE/DL, Sr.; Brendan Tripp, OL/DL, Sr.; Gavin Tully, OL/DL, Sr.; Sam Farthing, OL, Sr.; Tyler Walford, OL/DL, Sr.; Clayton Vague, FB, Sr.; Morgan Fredonia High School started the 2018 season Kelley, QB/CB, Sr.; Kash Travnicheck, WR/LB, Sr.; with a bang, winning five of its first six games. Avery Haxton, LB, Jr. Conor Nicholl But the Yellow Jackets limped into the 2A playoffs with back to back losses before succumbing to Chaparral in the first round, 55-0. Fredonia ran a wishbone offense last year in game, but the Tornadoes did record one shut out and order to manage the clock and rely on its defense. held opponents under 12 points three different times. Fourth-year head coach Marc Svaty says that plan Eureka’s last winning season came in 2013 when worked in the beginning of the year, but down the the Tornadoes finished 6-4. Nichols has aspirations stretch his Yellow Jackets lacked explosive plays of returning the program to that level and beyond. and the ability to put up points. “Our team goals are to continue improving our Fredonia will be transitioning to a spread offense program’s culture, have a winning season, win our to combat this issue, but with a large senior class district and play a game on our own field,” Nichols gone due to graduation, the Yellow Jackets will be said, noting work continues on a field project follow- looking for younger players to step up and fill an ing last summer’s tornado damaging the field and immediate role. forcing Eureka to play all games on the road. “There are a lot of shoes to fill,” Svaty said. “We do have some nice young talent that have had 3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 2A / Tri-Valley League success in junior high and junior varsity.” Coach: Jason Nichols (2nd year, 3-6; 5th overall, 12- The Yellow Jackets were able to run the wish24) Assistants: Scott Miller, Brendan Ptacek, Gary bone offense thanks to an imposing offensive line Frederking Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 and power running backs. Fredonia returns two Returning lettermen: 20 offensive linemen and two running backs, but the Returning starters: 9 Offense, 11 Defense game plan will look different with new personnel. Zach Hare, WR/LB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Terik Crisswell, Junior quarterback John Dutton is back after TE/DE, 6-4, 180, Sr.; Braden Rucker, OL/DL, 6-2, making his first start last year. He will have three 215, Jr.; Brandon Darbyshire, OL, 5-11, 205, Sr.; returning receivers to throw to in Grayson Coulter, Ben Sunderland, OL, 5-10, 195, Jr.; Wyatt Reust, OL, 5-10, 195, Jr.; Mason McDonald, DL, 6-2, 215, Layne Mayeske and Cooper Odell. Svaty says the plan will be to utilize his skill Sr.; Brent Escareno, LB, 5-6, 165, Jr.; Cade Larcom, position players more than last year. WR/DB, 6-1, 150, Sr.; Brennan Lowe, RB, LB, 5-7, “Our quarterback is returning and we have some 165, Jr.; Quinton Phelan, DB, 6-4, 170, Sr.; Garrison backs and receivers that have blossomed physSpoonts, DB, 5-9. 160, So.; Cole Strickler, WR/LB, 6-1, 175, So.; Justin Zimmers, LB, 6-0, 170, Sr. GM ically over the last year,” Svaty said. “We will get

EUREKA

posting a pair of shutouts.

221 Douglas But theN. finish was 67439 less than satisfying for the Ellsworth, KS

Vikings. Mission Valley dropped three of its final four 785.472.3155 regular-season games and limped into the playoffs. www.petersonkasper.com www.petersonkasper.com The Vikings did put up a strong fight against one-loss Maur Hill in the playoff opener, falling 27-18 ERIE In his first year as head coach at Erie High School, to finish the season 5-4, including an unbeaten 3-0 mark in an abbreviated Flint Hills League schedule. Eddie Kearns says his team goal is to finish with a Filling holes in the backfield will be a huge key for winning record. That’s a lofty goal for a program that the Vikings if they look to build off a solid first year has not had a winning season since 2011. under Duncan. Graduation claimed nearly 90 percent Kearns is taking over for Sterling Hudson, who left the program after serving as head coach for five of the team’s offensive production from a year ago. That includes workhorse tailback Cohle Phillips (996 seasons. In year one, Kearns has seven returning starters on offense and five on defense to work with. yards, 8 TDs) and quarterback Trevor Moore (447 passing, 557 rushing, 14 total TDs). Erie went 3-6 last year. Of their three wins, two Senior Colby Stowe is the leading returning rusher of them came against district opponents. The Red and receiver, but managed just 99 yards on 28 Devils finished in a three-way tie for the final two playoff spots in their district, but lost out to Southeast- carries last year and caught just five passes for 55 Cherokee and Riverton by virtue of point differential. yards. The good news for the Vikings is if Duncan can The Red Devils destroyed Riverton 44-19, but lost reload in the backfield, he’s got plenty of experience to Southeast-Cherokee 21-7. Lopsided losses to in front of them to ease the transition. Even though Humboldt (63-0) and Jayhawk-Linn (40-0) kept Erie graduation claimed unanimous all-league selection out of the playoffs. The Red Devils return three starters who will play Chase Meyer, three juniors who have started since on the offensive and defensive lines. Senior Caype their freshmen seasons — Nolan Parker, Cadin Roberts and Ben Rudeen — return to lead the way. Johnston, who stands at 6-foot-3, 300 pounds, will Parker was a second-team all-leaguer on offense anchor both lines. Fellow senior lineman Derick Wallace is also an imposing figure, standing 6-5, 270. and Roberts was an honorable mention pick on defense. The Red Devils have a returning senior running Though six starters return defensively, the Vikings back duo of Tyler Wimp and Michael Winslow. Erie also has an impressive sophomore class that will have to replace their top-four tacklers from a year ago, including Meyer (63 tackles) and Moore (37), features three players who saw starting time as each of whom were first-team all-league selections. freshmen last year. Garrett Ruark, Caden Eds and Grant Taylor will all be big parts of the Erie offense for Stowe and Rudeen each had 20 tackles last year, tops among returners. the next three years to come. Developing a quarterback will be a big priority for a Mission Valley only forced 10 turnovers last year, but also only turned it over nine times. team that averaged just over 13 points a game. The Vikings will open the season against a For a program that has not had much success West Franklin team that has a new coach before in recent years, Kearns is looking to take things stepping out of league play against Wabaunsee. The day-by-day. “Working hard on fundamentals will be our keys to district will once again be a tough test with 2A state runner-up Riley County and perennial postseason success,” Kearns said. “Understanding the weekly contenders Rossville and Sotuheast-Saline. schemes and having fun with the game as well.”

After spending the previous four seasons playing 8-Man football, Ellinwood High School made the transition back to 11-man in 2018. The Eagles were humbled in their season opener — a 48-0 loss to La Crosse — but followed that up with back-to-back wins. Even though Ellinwood finished the year 3-6, the Eagles still gained valuable experience and welcome back eight returning starters on offense and seven on defense. Entering his third year as head coach, Alex Birney knows new faces will need to step up, but the returning experience is there for Ellinwood to be improved. “We have the knowledge and the players to win; having a year of experience in 11-man will help them tremendously,” Birney said. “We will also need some younger guys to step up and contribute.” Senior QB Kyler Doll looks to take a step forward this year after a season in which he threw for 805 yards and eight TDs. If Doll can improve upon his 46 percent completion percentage and cut down on the 12 INTs he threw, the Eagles will be in solid hands. Doll has his top-two targets back in seniors David Hammeke and Ryan Niles. Together, the duo combined for 62 catches, 547 yards, and four TDs. Replacing top back Kody Koetter is a key concern. Koetter rushed for 779 yards and nine TDs last year. The Eagles do return three offensive linemen and a tight end to combat the loss of their top rusher. Defensively, Hammeke is the undisputed leader after recording a team-high 89 tackles last year as a defensive back. The Eagles must replace their next two leading tacklers after Hammeke, but Aiden Ricker had a solid sophomore season last year, finishing with 43 tackles as a linebacker. For Ellinwood to improve and record Birney’s first winning season with the program, getting better in practice and the weight room will be keys. “If we can stack a bunch of good days on top of each other then we will be a good football team,” Birney said. “Our goals are to compete in every practice and even more so in every game. We have big goals for this group but it starts in the weight room and at practice.”

With nine returning starters on offense and 11 on defense, the Eureka football team returns nearly its entire team. However, the one position the Tornadoes will need a replacement at is quarterback. Although Cade Burden has graduated, Eureka is still in good shape entering head coach Jason Nichols’ second year. Last season, Eureka went 3-6, but the Tornadoes could have very easily been 5-4. After a 10-0 win over Leon-Bluestem to start the season, the Tornadoes dropped four straight, including a 7-0 defeat to Fredonia. Eureka snapped the losing streak with a win over Neodesha, but the following week the Tornadoes dropped a one-point contest in OT to Belle Plaine. With 20 returning lettermen on the team, Eureka has high hopes in 2019. Nichols says the biggest key will be finding a new signal caller. “We are replacing an experienced quarterback, so finding the right player is going to be a priority,” Nichols said. Zach Hare is a versatile athlete who the Tornadoes will rely on heavily. Hare is the team’s leading returning rusher and receiver and one of the top lifters in the weight room. The Tornadoes also return four offensive linemen, two recievers, and a tight end. Defensively, Eureka won’t have to worry about replacing anyone; rather, getting more production out of the returning players. The unit allowed 29 points a

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ESKRIDGE-MISSION VALLEY

3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 2A / Tri-Valley League Coach: Eddie Kearns (1st year) Assistants: Jamie Carlisle, Dan Wilson Offense: Veer Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 5 Defense Caype Johnston, OL/DL, 6-3, 300, Sr.; Garrett Ruark, Back, 6-1, 165, So.; Tyler Wimp, Back, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Michael Winslow, Back, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Aaron Babcock, OL/DL, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Derick Wallace, OL/ DL, 6-5, 270, Sr.; Caden Eds, Back, 5-9, 170, So.; Grant Taylor, Back, 5-10, 165, So. Gallagher Martin

5-4 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 2A / Flint Hills League Coach: Justin Duncan (2nd year, 5-4) Assistants: Skyler Beam, Norman Parker, Matt Bisnett Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Will Blythe, LB/WR, 6-3, 175, Sr.; Colby Stowe, DB/ WB, 5-8, 150, SR.; Trenton Parks, OLB, 5-6, 150, Sr.; Ashton McGinley, DB/WB, 6-0, 150, Jr.; James Williams, WB, 5-8, 140, Jr.; Nolan Parker, NG/C, 6-1, 270, Jr.; Cadin Roberts, DE/OG, 5-8, 220, Jr.; Ben Rudeen, DT/OG, 6-0, 230, Jr. Brent Maycock

FREDONIA

the ball to those kids in space to give them more opportunities for big plays.” Fredonia lived and died by its defense a year ago. In five wins, the Yellow Jackets only allowed 7.4 points per game. In four losses, however, the Yellow Jackets surrendered over 43 points a game. With five returning starters on defense, the Yellow Jackets will look to continue the success they had in wins while searching for more consistency. Overall, Svaty is pleased with the progress his team has made since the end of last season. “Our team has had a nice off-season in the weight room and we had a third-place finish in the Class 2A Powerlifting Meet,” Svaty said. “We look forward to highlighting some new faces and names on Friday nights.” 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 2A / Tri-Valley League Coach: Marc Svaty (4th year, 15-13; 13th overall, 52-60) Assistants: Carl Dinkel, Brent Trujillo, John Boss, Matt Camacho Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Grayson Coulter, WR/DB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Layne Mayeske, WR/DB, 6-1, 155, Jr.; Grant Hebb, OL/ DL, 5-8, 240, Jr.; Kyler Starbuck, OL/DL, 6-1, 285, Jr.; Nick Hibbard, TE/LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Cooper Odell, WR/DB, 5-9, 135, Sr.; Taron Ward, RB/LB, 5-6, 175, So.; Buddy Claibourn, RB/LB, 5-10, 180, Jr.; John Dutton, QB/DB, 5-5, 130, Jr. Gallagher Martin

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

GARDEN PLAIN

GYPSUM-SOUTHEAST OF SALINE

Last year, Garden Plain finished 6-4. In the 48-team Class 2A the Owls stood No. 16 in offense at 28.3 points per game, and ninth in defense at 15 points allowed per contest. GP played 2A’s No. 10 toughest schedule, according to Prep Power Index. In 2017, GP finished 7-2 in 3A and missed the playoffs because of a 1-2 record in district. That year, GP scored 35.6 points a game and allowed 19.9. GP started 4-0 last year, including victories at Cheney (15-12), home against Douglass (31-0) and Wichita Trinity (56-14) and at Whitewater-Remington (42-12). Then, the Owls lost to Hutch-Trinity, 20-7, and at Chaparral, 30-21. After a 52-12 home win versus Wichita Independent, GP lost at rival Conway Springs, 28-7, before two rematches in the playoffs. First, Garden Plain won at Douglass (45-6) and lost at Hutch-Trinity (16-7). Trinity ranked as the No. 1 defense in 2A, while Conway Springs was fifth. Those squads combined for a 19-3 record. Conway Springs and Garden Plain will likely be the favorites in District 6 this year after Trinity and Chaparral suffered signficant graduation losses and Whitewater-Remington and Wichita Independent went 2-7 and 0-9 respectively. Coach Ken Dusenbury has posted at least six wins in each of his four seasons as the Owls’ head coach. Matt Pauly should be the full-time QB after going 6 of 20 for 76 yards with a 0/1 TD/INT ratio. Five players threw a pass last year, three had at least 20 attempts as GP totaled 818 passing yards, completing 45 percent of attempts with an 8/8 TD/INT ratio. Senior John Nowak rushed 55 times for 378 yards and four scores and is the only one of the top-four rushers back. Pauly was the leading receiver with 16 catches for 251 yards and three scores. He had 22 returns for 706 yards and was all-league second team and honorable mention all-state WR/returner; Nowak was all-league and honorable mention allstate at LB after he had 59 tackles with seven TFLs. Key newcomers include seniors Cooper Leis (WB), Blake Long (RB), and Garret Richardson, Tanner Rockers and Justin Joplin on the offensive line. As well, junior Jeb Nowak projects as a key player at RB and DB. Long and Rockers are expected to start along the defensive line, and Leis at LB.

Southeast of Saline was expected to make a big improvement after a rare down season in ‘17. SES had posted four straight 7-3 records before a 4-5 mark. Last year, the Trojans went 8-2, the most wins since an 8-2 record in ’11. The Round of 16 advancement was the furthest for the program since ’06. SES had an average margin of 25.4-16.2 last season. The year prior, the Trojans scored 38.2 points a game but permitted 31.1. SES opened 4-0 and allowed just 27 total points with two shutouts. In Week 5, the Trojans lost at Rossville, 32-6. After a 48-20 victory versus Mission Valley, SES won at Riley County, 23-21, after trailing 21-0 at halftime. In District 4, Riley County, Rossville and SES all went 4-1 and 1-1 against each other, though Riley County won the district and SES was third because of tiebreakers. Then, the Trojans defeated Council Grove (21-16) and Nemaha Central (26-13). The Trojans lost, 33-14, to Riley County, the eventual state runner-up, in the playoffs. Quarterback Jaxson Gebhardt returns and is part of a strong junior class. Classmates Tyler Breeding (WR/LB) and Bryant Banks (RB/LB) are back and also among the top players in the conference. All three earned recognition at various levels last season, including first team all-league for Gebhardt and Banks, and second team for Breeding. Gebhardt, as a sophomore, completed 113 of 209 passes for 1,393 yards with a 10/12 TD/INT ratio. As a team, the Trojans had a 15/15 TD/INT ratio. The Trojans had 96 percent of its rushing yards from non-seniors, led by 561 from Banks and 509 by Gebhardt. SES averaged 138 rushing yards and 3.6 yards per carry. The leading two, and four of the top-five tacklers graduated. Breeding is back after 43 tackles, four TFLs and 23 catches for 431 yards and four scores. Coach Gebhardt, in his 10th year as head coach of the Trojans, called leadership and hard work keys to success. “Our summer will be a key to the 2019 football season,” coach Gebhardt said. “We will have to have people fill in our leadership roles. Hard work will make us better.”

6-4 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 2A Central Plains League Coach: Ken Dusenbury (5th year, 32-10) Assistants: Greg Gegen, Cory Brack, Will Bergkamp, Eric Rockers, AC Poynter, Bob Smith, Andrew Bergkamp, Sam Sheahon Offense: Shotgun Wing T Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 4 Defense Trey Smith, WR/DB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Matt Pauly, QB/DB, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Marek Rex, WR, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Jordan Thomas, TE, 6-2, 170, Sr.; John Nowak, RB/LB, 5-9, 210, Sr.; Isaac Quintero, OL, 6-0, 280, Sr.; Anthony Hays, LB, 5-10, 200, Jr. Conor Nicholl

8-2 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 2A North Central Activities Association Coach: Mitch Gebhardt (10th year, 55-32; 18th overall, 82-68) Assistants: Chance Ptacek, Trenton Douglas, Kent Jacobson, Todd Baird Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Jaxson Gebhardt, QB, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Tyler Breeding, WR/LB, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Bryant Banks, RB/LB, 6-2, 208, Jr.; Eli Harris, WR/LB, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Sterlin Harp, OL/ DL, 5-9, 210, Jr.; Seth Eklund, QB/WR/DB, 5-9, 155, Sr. Conor Nicholl

Mark Friess’ first year at Horton was a rough one. Fielding a relatively young team short on numbers overall and playing a schedule that included seven playoff teams, the Chargers went winless. Horton didn’t have a game closer than 30 points and they were shut out three times. Things typically tend to improve in the second year, but Horton will once again face the same challenges it did a year ago. The schedule hasn’t gotten any easier with the first six games against playoff teams and the Chargers haven’t increased numbers. Though seven starters return each way, only three of those are seniors. Graduation didn’t claim a large group, but what was lost was significant. Horton averaged 9.8 points per game a year ago and 95 percent of last year’s offensive production is gone. Friess will have to replace all of last year’s skill positions, in many cases with sophomores. The best news for Friess is that his team will be experienced in the trenches with six linemen back with starting experience led by the senior duo of Grady Miller and Braden Cowley and sizable junior Emery Negonsott (6-2, 280). The defense took a hit with the team’s top-three tacklers graduating, including All-NEKL performer

Marshall Randall (93 tackles, 11 TFLs) and leading tackler Isaiah Cortes (117 tackles). Sophomores Dar Fee and Trey Lockwood each had 30-plus tackles as freshmen starters last year and fellow sophomore Edthan Vanderweide had five tackles for loss. Horton gave up at least 36 points in every game a year ago, so shoring up the defense will be as big of a key as replacing the skill players on offense.

HORTON

Page 108

United Ag Service

785-637-5481 Gorham, KS HAYS-TMP-MARIAN

David Bowen left TMP after one season for Baldwin City, and Jay Harris accepted the position as head football coach in May. Harris joined TMP in 2016 and was previously the TMP head junior football coach. TMP posted back-to-back undefeated seasons in junior high the last two falls. Harris has also served as a high school assistant football coach. As a teacher, Harris chartered the first FFA program in a private school in the state of Kansas and teaches agriculture and science at TMP. Harris came to TMP from Ness City where he coached football, track and basketball at the high school and junior high levels. TMP has posted back-to-back 3-6 seasons. The Monarchs have not won more than three games in a year since a 5-4 mark in 2011. The Monarchs have not reached the playoffs since 2002. Last year, TMP scored just 79 points, fourth-fewest in the 48-team Class 2A, and permitted 276. The Monarchs had a stronger defense but a much weaker statistical offense than ’16-17 under former coach Jason Cauley, who installed a pass-heavy spread. In ’16, TMP scored 166 points and allowed 370. In ’17, it was 271 points scored, 318 allowed. Kaleb Hagans graduated and signed with Kansas Wesleyan. Hagans delivered 267 total tackles the last two years. The Monarchs were shutout in five contests and won all three games at home against Ellis (14-7), Minneapolis (14-7) and Lyons (45-12) in Weeks 2, 7 and 9, respectively. Hagans moved to the backfield last season and delivered 28 carries for 166 yards and a score in Bowen’s run-based attack. “Have a 5-4 record,” Harris said of the team’s goals. “Win one playoff game. Good numbers, good work ethic, stay focused.” 3-6 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 3A Mid-Continent League Coach: Jay Harris (1st year) Assistants: T.J. Gottschalk, Josh Allen, Allan Amrein, Joe Dintino Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Eathan Atherton, OL/DL, Sr.; Colby Dreiling, RB/LB, Sr.; Carson Jacobs, WR/DB, Sr.; Marcus Lagree, OL/ DL, Jr.; Weston Pfeifer, OL/LB, Sr.; Ryan Richmeier, OL/DL, Sr.; Bryce Seib, QB/LB, So.; Jace Wentling, WR/LB, So. Conor Nicholl

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HOISINGTON

Hoisington, led by Wyatt Pedigo, is on the short list for Class 2A contenders this season. Hoisington has never reached a state championship in school history, though made the semifinals in ’16 and ’18 and the quarterfinals three times, most recently in ’15. Hoisington returns standout running back Wyatt Pedigo, the 2A Offensive Player of the Year by Sports in Kansas, and a finalist for 2A Defensive Player of the Year. Pedigo rushed 222 times for 2,101 yards and 29 TDs and cleared 100 yards in every game after he missed the season opener with injury. He also caught 10 passes for 135 yards and three scores. Pedigo helped Hoisington to an average score of 33.5-18.4. As a sophomore, Pedigo delivered 88 carries for 630 yards and seven TDs. Pedigo, also one of the state’s top wrestlers, has received multiple football offers, including Fort Hays and South Dakota. Pedigo led the team with 104 tackles, nine for loss. Junior QB Mason Haxton returns after missing much of the regular season to injury. Senior lineman Riley Philbern is one of the classification’s best. Junior Joshua Ball had 86 tackles and six TFLs, both second to Pedigo. Hoisington went 9-3 and lost 34-0 to Pratt in Week 1 without Pedigo. Then, the Cardinals reeled off five straight victories, all by at least 14 points. In Week 6, Hoisington fell to Phillipsburg, 51-21. After four straight wins by at least 22 points, the Cardinals played Phillipsburg close in the semifinals before the Panthers pulled away to win 31-14. Hoisington led 7-0 in the second quarter and trailed 17-14 in the second half. Phillipsburg is 5-0 against Hoisington since 2012 and has knocked the Cardinals out of the playoffs the last two seasons. 9-3 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 2A Central Kansas League Coach: Zach Baird (6th year, 48-11) Assistants: Matt Koelsch, Kyle Haxton, Robert England Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense Mason Haxton, QB, 6-0 175, Jr.; Wyatt Pedigo, RB/ LB, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Avery Brewer, WR, 5-8, 145, Sr.; Dallen Hutchcraft, TE/DE, 6-3, 195, Sr.; Kameron Schneweis, OL/LB, 5-8, 175, Sr.; Riley Philbern, OL/DL, 6-3, 280, Sr.; Chandler Blackwell, OL/DL, 6-3, 215, Sr.; Jacob Specht, OL, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Holt Hanzlick, LB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Josh Ball, LB, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Quincy Cross, DB, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Cade Mason, DB, 5-8, 150, Jr. Conor Nicholl

HUMBOLDT

Entering his fifth year as head coach, and after taking the Cubs to the school’s first ever Sub-State Championship game last season, Logan Wyrick is trying to turn Humboldt into a perennial power. “Our team goals always start at the top with winning a district title and winning a state title, no matter what the expectations people may have for our team for that given season,” Wyrick said. “We always want to 0-9 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 2A strive to be the best in whatever we are involved in.” Northeast Kansas League Last season saw the Cubs reach the state semifiCoach: Mark Friess (2nd year, 0-9) nals in 2A and finish with an 11-1 record. Humboldt Assistants: Nick Dowell, Kertis Keehn was straight dominate last year, averaging over Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 48 points a game while only allowing 11 a contest. Returning lettermen: 11 The Cubs did suffer a 46-16 thumping at the hands Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense of Riley County in the semifinals, but regardless Kyle Hammersmith, WR/DB, 6-2, 160, Sr.; Grady enjoyed a season for the record books in 2018. And Miller, OL/DL, 5-10, 190, SR.; Braden Cowley, OL/ there’s potential for success in 2019 as well. DL, 6-0, 230, SR.; Dutch Keo, OL/DL, 5-8, 205, “There is talent there, but we have to find the playJr.; Noah Mathias, OL/DL, 6-0, 200, Jr.; Emery ers that want to step forward and keep each other Negonsott, OL/DL, 6-2, 280, Jr.; Jon Boller, OL/ DL, 5-8, 210, So.; Trey Lockwood, TE/DE, 6-2, 175, accountable,” Wyrick said. “If we can find leadership So.; Ethan Vanderweide, RB/DE, 6-0, 190, So.; Tre early, I believe we can find some success.” Replacing the likes of Kpreps All-State players Green, RB/LB, 5-9, 190, So.; Dar Fee, RB/LB, 5-8, 205, So. Brent Maycock Dagen Goodner (LB), Tucker Hurst (TE) and David Watts (DT) will not be easy. Goodner, a Shrine Bowl pick, tallied 87 tackles, Joel Benson, CPA with seven for loss and three fumble recoveries. He was also a force on offense from the QB spot where Mary Benson, CPA he produced over 2,000 yards of total offense and Specializing in small businesses accounted for 33 total touchdowns. Hurst caught 14 passes for 283 yards for four scores and tore through opposing offensive lines for 1911 S. Ohio Office: (785)827-3157 17 tackles for loss and seven sacks. Salina, KS 67401 Fax: (785)827-3159 Watts added 23 TFLs and four sacks, three forced jmbensoncpa@yahoo.com fumbles and two interceptions.

Benson Accounting

West Hwy 4

Hoisington

But Humboldt still has difference makers on the roster, most notably, running back Conor Haviland. The senior terrorized defenses last year on his way to 1,687 rushing yards, 32 TDs, and four punt return TDs for good measure. Haviland will have the luxury of running behind two standout offensive linemen in Josh Hull and Taylor Lassman. At 6-6, 255, Hull is a force at right tackle and defensive end. Hull participated in the Blue-Grey All-American Game and has interest from FCS, DII and JUCO programs. Lassman has been a starter on the offensive line since his sophomore season. The Cubs only return four starters on offense and will be searching for a quarterback, a couple receivers, and a couple linemen, but Wyrick remains focused on improving every day. “I don’t think that we have the same goals as most anybody, though,” Wyrick said, “and that is to have a successful summer that carries into our best game in September; and then, be the best we can each given week.” 11-1 in 2018 / 5-0 in districts / 2A / Tri-Valley League Coach: Logan Wyrick (5th year, 26-15) Assistants: Dave Taylor, Jason Weilert, Jeremy Weilert Offense: Power Spread/Wildcat Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Jackson Aikins, DB, 5-9, 140, Sr.; Isiah Coronado, WR/DB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Joe Froggatte, DT, 6-1, 305, Sr.; Conor Haviland, RB/DB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Speed Hoepker, LB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Josh Hull, RT/DE, 6-6, 255, Sr.; Taylor Lassman, C, 6-1, 230 Sr. GM

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

LYONS

Perry Owens Manager

1020 W. Main

1444 Mulberry Rd. Minneapolis, KS Office785-392-2184 Cell 620-874-1078

HUTCHINSON-TRINITY

The most recent graduated senior class from Hutchinson Trinity saw steady progression which culminated with an excellent 2018 season. As freshmen, last year’s Trinity senior class went 3-6. The next year saw a 5-4 season followed by a 6-3 season. In their final season, last year, the Celtics went 9-2 and made the quarterfinals of the 2A playoffs. Trinity began the year 3-0, highlighted by an 8-6 win over Ell-Saline, before dropping a 22-8 defeat to juggernaut Conway Springs. The Celtics rebounded by winning six straight, but ran into Hoisington in the quarterfinals. Now, the Celtics face one of the more imminent rebuilds in the state with no returning starters on offense and just two on defense. However, sixth-year head coach Jordan Bell not only welcomes the rebuild, but he is optimistically embracing it. “We are extremely excited about the upcoming 2019 season,” Bell said. “The coaching staff is eager to see new faces within the program play under the Friday night lights.” The Celtics two returning starters come from the defensive side of the ball. Junior linebackers Evan Remar and Miles Friday will both be heavily relied on for leadership and experience. Remar was second on the team with 80 tackles while Friday tallied 52 tackles last season. “The defensive unit will play fast, physical, and with great effort,” Bell said. Although the Celtics do not return any starters on offense from last year, they do return junior Andrew Bergmeier who will make an immediate impact at running back. Bergmeier missed most of last season with a hand injury, but started his freshman season and rushed for 729 yards and eight touchdowns. “The offense will continue to operate out of multiple formations and a no-huddle look,” Bell said. The schedule in 2019 features six teams that made the playoffs last season. Trinity plays in District 6, which features Conway Springs, Chaparral, Garden Plain, Whitewater-Remington and Wichita Independent. “Continued development of underclassmen will remain a priority to sustain the success of the football program in future years,” Bell said. 9-2 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 2A Heart of America League Coach: Jordan Bell (6th year, 32-18) Assistants: Sean Racette, Mike Miller, Jonathan Burkhart Offense: No-Huddle Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 0 Offense, 2 Defense Miles Friday, LB, Jr.; Evan Remar, LB, Jr. Gallagher Martin

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KISMET-SOUTHWESTERN HEIGHTS

LAKIN

Southwestern Heights posted its third straight 2-7 season, this time under new coach Matt Bell, formerly at Fowler. SH went 0-5 in league and opened 0-5 for the season with two losses by 14 and 22 points. In Weeks 6-7, the Mustangs earned their first victories at Lyons (38-3) and versus Ellinwood (56-28). In its last two contests, the Mustangs lost at Sterling, 42-34, in three overtimes and lost at Phillipsburg, 5512. SW Heights scored 21.3 points and allowed 35.8. The program has not had a winning season since an 8-2 mark in ’07. The Mustangs graduated four-year starting quarterback Efren Mercado, who had 172 carries for 1,068 yards and nine scores. Junior Izak Castro recorded 103 tackles and 3.5 sacks. Overall, the Mustangs graduated just four players from ’18, two who started on both offense and defense. Another two-way starter transferred, so the Mustangs return eight starters. Hever Mercado is expected to step in at quarterback after he has played well as the JV QB the last two years. “Being in Year 2 of our new system we look for much better understanding from our players and believe that will lead to increased production and efficiency,” Bell said. “We should be very experienced this season and will lean on that experience in order to be successful. Offensively we will look to be more balanced in regards to running and throwing the ball.” Senior Demetrio Flores is expected to have a strong year at after rushing for 684 yards and recording 100-plus tackles, while Sergio Puentes, Walter Ramirez and Bryant Olvera led the way at receiver. Four of the five offensive linemen return, paced by junior Efren Natividad. Sophomore Memo Flores – who started both ways as a freshman - moves from weak side linebacker to strong side linebacker to replace Efren Mercado. Bell listed team strengths as experience, continuity and increased weight room numbers. Bell said the biggest weakness is a lack of experienced reserves.

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Lakin has improved each of the four years under accomplished coach Chris Bamberger going 2-7, 5-5, 7-3 and 8-2. Last year, the Broncs captured their first playoff win since 1999 and approached the best record in school history, a 10-1 mark in 1988. Lakin opened the season with a 20-19 road win versus Meade and lost 18-14 to Cimarron in Week 6 in a game that decided the Hi-Plains League title. In the playoffs, Lakin defeated Norton, 44-14, before a 41-0 loss to Phillipsburg. The Round of 16 advancement marked the furthest for the school since ’01. Lakin scored 30.5 points per game and allowed 14.1 in ’18 after an average score of 32.9-22.3 in ’17. The Broncs are expected to be a 2A contender with lineman Hadley Panzer and running back Kayden Christiansen back. Panzer earned multiple Division I offers and has committed to Kansas State. Christiansen rushed 162 times for 1,022 yards and 14 scores. “We will depend on some young players to develop quickly through the summer and early season games,” Bamberger said. “Our returning players have been training hard in the offseason and will hopefully be ready to step into even bigger roles this coming season.” Lakin needs a new quarterback after Juan Banuelos graduated following 376 passing yards, a 2/9 TD/INT ratio, 726 rushing yards and 14 scores. All 25 receptions came from non-seniors last year. Even with the success, Lakin committed 21 turnovers and finished minus-3 in turnover margin, rare for an eight-win squad. Panzer led the team with 62 tackles, 6.5 for loss. Banuelos picked off five passes. Before Lakin, Bamberger, a Jetmore native and former K-State player, had great success at Ness City, including a state title. “We will have low numbers, not a lot of depth, but will look to add some players who may be able to contribute by getting them good reps in camps,” 2-7 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 2A / Hi-Plains League Bamberger said. “It will be a key for us to stay Coach: Matt Bell (2nd year, 2-7; 5th overall, 20-19) healthy throughout the season, especially in district Assistants: Kellan Hernandez, Mitchell Burns, Tayler play. Our district opponents will all improve as well so Stull, Chris Bortz Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-4 the competition will be tough. It will be important that Returning lettermen: 15 we have a great summer in the weight room and get Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense guys quality reps in the camps we attend.” Demetrio Flores, RB/MLB, 5-9, 200, Sr.; Noah Gentry, DE, 5-11, 205, Sr.; Neeley Nichols, OT, 5-10, 8-2 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 2A / Hi-Plains League 185, Sr.; Juan Torres, DE, 5-8, 190, Sr.; Valick Sorter, Coach: Chris Bamberger (5th year, 22-16; 10th overC/DT, 6-4, 245, Sr.; Hever Mercado, QB/DB, 5-10, all, 62-30) Assistants: Chris Pollart, Travis Johnson, 155, Jr.; Bryant Olvera, WR/DB, 5-10, 135, Jr.; Sergio Wyatt Jiru Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-3 Puentes, TE, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Izak Castro, MLB, 5-10, Returning lettermen: 16 195, Jr.; Erick Valenzuela, OG, 5-8, 230, Jr.; Efren Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense Natividad, OT/DT, 6-1, 265, Jr.; Walter Ramirez, WR/ Hadley Panzer, OL/DL, 6-3, 295, Sr.; Kayden DB, 5-9, 135, Jr.; Memo Flores, FB/OLB, 5-7, 180, Christiansen, RB/LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; William Gilliland, So. Conor Nicholl RB/LB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Jaylyn Hash, TE/WR/LB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Erick Moreno, OL/DL, 5-10, 260, Sr.; Kade Lovelady, RB/DB, 5-9, 160, Jr.; Dawson Aller OL/DL, 5-7, 210, Jr.; Servando Gonzales, QB/RB/DB, 5-10, The strength of the team will be up front where three starters return each way in senior Brody Sparks 155, So.; Conner Hudson, WR/DB, 5-10, 155, So. Conor Nicholl and juniors Landon Drinkard and Kyler Holloway. Drinkard is a three-year starter and Freeman called the Bulldogs’ line the most improved group a year ago and hopes their experience will offset the inexperience in the skill positions. Two of McLouth’s five losses last year came to Silver Lake and two others came to teams which made the second round of the 2A playoffs, Maur Hill and Osage City. The Bulldogs were actually outscored by their opponents overall last year (315-290). With low numbers, staying healthy will be a huge key for McLouth in 2019.

MCLOUTH

With a 5-5 mark last year, McLouth matched the total number of wins it had posted in Gary Freeman’s first three years as head coach. The season was the best since a 7-3 mark in 2013 and the Bulldogs posted their first playoff victory since 2012 with a 48-26 win over Jayhawk-Linn in the opening round of the Class 2A postseason. Freeman would love to avoid the regression his team experienced in 2017 when, coming off a 4-5 mark in 2016, McLouth slipped to an 0-9 record. It will be a challenge as McLouth graduated 10 seniors off last year’s team, many of whom were three- and four-year starters. The Bulldogs do return five starters, but those also represent the only returning lettermen and Freeman is expecting only between 15-20 players to be on the roster this season. Arguably the biggest graduation loss was Jeremy Carlton, a four-year starter at quarterback for the Bulldogs during his career. Last year, Carlton racked up nearly 1,800 yards of total offense, throwing for 1,015 yards and 17 touchdowns and rushing for another 774 yards and nine scores. Matt Kuglin will move in from his receiver position to take over under center for the Bulldogs. With Hunter Plake also moving from receiver to running back, McLouth goes into the season with essentially new starters at every skill position.

Go Lions!

5-5 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 2A Northeast Kansas League Coach: Gary Freeman (5th year, 10-27) Assistants: Rodney Carlton, Tony Kuckelman Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-5 Returning lettermen: 5 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Matt Kuglin, TE/LB, 6-0, 150, Jr.; Hunter Plake, WR/ DB, 5-9, 145, Jr.; Landon Drinkard, OL/DL, 5-9, 205, Jr.; Kyler Holloway, OL/DL, 5-10, 220, Jr.; Brody Sparks, OL/DL, 6-0, 225, Sr. Brent Maycock

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Andy Gwennap has been tasked with reviving a Lyons football program that is staring a 29-game losing streak in the face which dates back four years. The last win for the Lions came on Oct. 23, 2015. Gwennap is no stranger to rebuilding programs. In his first year as a head coach, Gwennap led Republic County to a 4-5 season in 2015 after the Buffs finished with a combined one win the previous four seasons. Gwennap, a former Smith Center and University of Nebraska lineman, also has experience as an assistant coach at Hugoton and Russell, among others. The current Lyons seniors have never experienced a varsity win. But with a fresh face at the helm and plenty of experience, Lyons could break the streak. In addition to 20 returning lettermen, Lyons returns nine starters on offense and eight on D. Ismael Reyes is due for a big senior season after being named All-Central Kansas League honorable mention as a d-back. Reyes will also receive his fair shares of carries at the running back position. The Lions had one additional all-league selection last year — senior kicker Alejandro Pena, who also starts on both lines. In total, Lyons will be relying on seven seniors who are returning starters. The Lions also have a good blend of juniors and sophomores. In his first season at Lyons, Gwennap will preach the fundamentals. “We will improve each week and work as one unit; we will be fundamentally sound,” Gwennap said. “The weight room will be the key to success, as will hard work, intensity and physicality.” 0-9 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 2A Central Kansas League Coach: Andy Gwennap (1st year; 2nd overall, 4-5) Assistants: Cody Bowers, Dakota Nave, Josh Schievelbein Offense: Belly Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 8 Defense David Boyd, OL/DL, Sr.; Eddie Burrola, TE/DE, Sr.; Aaron Gomez, WR/DB, Sr.; Dezmond Higgins, WR/ DB, Sr.; Alejandro Pena, OL/LB, Sr.; Ismael Reyes, RB/ DB, Sr.; John Smith, WR/DB, Sr.; Jerry Orta, OL/DL, Jr.; Dalton Procopio, RB/LB, Jr.; Israel Rios, WR/DB, Jr.; Cade Crawford, QB/DB, So.; Wyatt Showalter, OL/ DL, So.; Dawson Stover, QB/DB, So.; Treyton Troyer, WR/DB, So.; Giovany Pando, OL/DL, So. GM

MINNEAPOLIS

After an 8-4 season in 2014, Minneapolis went 0-9, 1-8 and 2-7 before 4-5 last fall under former coach Jhon Haehn. He left for Elkhart in the spring and former Herington coach Tom Flax took over. Flax helped Herington into the eight-man ranks three years ago, and the Railers posted marks of 7-2, 3-6, 3-6. Before then, Herington had recorded just one victory in the previous four years. Minneapolis opened 3-1 last year with a 46-8 road win against Republic County, followed by a 20-17 overtime win versus Sacred Heart. In Week 3, the Lions lost to Beloit, 56-18, before a 14-13 road victory versus Ellsworth. Then, the Lions dropped four in a row, notably, a close 14-7 road loss to Thomas More Prep-Marian in Week 7. In Week 9, the Lions defeated Ellinwood, 58-8, to close the season on a high note. Minneapolis had an injury-plagued season and have seven seniors. Returning senior starters this fall include quarterback Derek Freel, wide receiver Kaden Griffin, fullback Crew Martin and offensive lineman Cooper Thompson. Flax potentially could have 26 returning sophomores and juniors. Last year, the Lions scored 20.2 points a contest and allowed 28.6 points a game. Two years ago, Minneapolis scored 19.3 points a game and permitted 36.8. The Lions graduated its top-two players with lineman Gaton Heald and running back/linebacker Tyson Villalpando, both whom collected first team all-league on both sides of the ball. 4-5 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 2A Coach: Thomas Flax (1st year; 7th overall, 14-40) Assistants: Travis Shaft, Todd Just, Lyle Davidson Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Derek Freel, QB, Sr.; Cooper Thompson, OL/LB, Sr.; Kaden Griffin, WR/DB, Sr.; Crew Martin, FB/LB, Sr.; Keyon Baccus, OL/DE, Jr.; John Nelson, WR/DB, Jr.; Trenton Moeckel, DB, Jr. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

MOUND CITY-JAYHAWK LINN

In his fifth year with the program, head coach Randy Leach has guided Jayhawk Linn to the playoffs every year. The Jayhawks have posted records of 9-1, 8-2, and 6-3 the past three years, but there is still one goal the Jayhawks have yet to accomplish: win in the playoffs. Jayhawk-Linn is 0-12 all-time in the playoffs. Last year, the Jayhawks had a four-game winning streak snapped in the first round of the 2A playoffs losing to McLouth, 48-26. To be the best you have to beat the best. For Jayhawk Linn, that starts with beating better teams. The Jayhawks went 6-0 against teams with records below .500 last year and 0-3 against teams at or above .500. In losses against Pleasanton (8-2), Humboldt (11-1) and McLouth (5-5), the Jayhawks were outscored by a combined 157-38. Jayhawk Linn took care of business against weaker opponents which the Jayhawks will need to do once again if they are to make the playoffs. The Jayhawks return five senior starters, and Leach is counting on all of them for leadership. “As the conditions change, some kids adjust and naturally step forward and lead,” Leach said. “My staff and I try to encourage each student-athlete to take charge when the opportunity presents itself.” The Jayhawks will be strong in the trenches, but will be replacing quarterback Treyton Compton. Seniors Jake Robinson, Clint Barker and Connor Stults, junior Garrett Scott and sophomore Jason McKinely all saw starting time on either the offensive or defensive line last season. When on offense, they will block for running back Lane Thompson and fullback Cade Kellstadt. Senior Brance Ware is an important part of the offense at receiver and on defense in the secondary. The Jayhawks have a solid group of returning starters and returning lettermen. Leach says the program is starting to develop confidence. “I think our kids have high expectations and will compete,” Leach said. “We will need to exhibit a greater amount of consistency to be successful.” 6-3 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 2A Three Rivers League Coach: Randy Leach (5th year, 28-11) Assistants: Clint Johnson, Jason Casner, Joe Wunderly Offense: Veer Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Brance Ware, WR/DB, 6-2, 170, Sr.; Lane Thompson, RB/SS, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Jake Robinson, OL/DE, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Clint Barker, OL/DE, 6-2, 300, Sr.; Connor Stults, OL/DL, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Cade Kellstadt, FB/LB, 6-1, 195, Jr.; Garrett Scott, OL/ DL, 5-10, 245, Jr.; Jason McKinely, OL/DE, 6-1, 215, So. Gallagher Martin

NEODESHA

After nine years as head coach of the Neodesha Blue Streaks, John Black took the same job at Independence. Black had a successful tenure at Neodesha, going 51-38 overall, but his final season was a struggle. Nedoesha began 2018 losing its first seven games before salvaging the season with back-to-back wins over Fredonia and Wichita Independent. With Black gone, Nedoesha turns to assistant coach David Gillett to lead the program. Gillett will be working with seven returning starters on both sides of the ball, including quarterback Mayson Ellis and explosive wide receiver Toby Curtis. All in all, Gillett has the opportunity to make a splash in his first year as head coach at Neodesha. “Our goal each and every day is to become a team,” Gillett said. “Secondary goals are winning district and making the playoffs.” The Blue Streaks offense struggled last year. Neodesha did not eclipse 20 points in a game until week five, and that took double overtime against Belle Plaine. The Blue Streaks averaged just over 17.5 points a game last season. With Ellis and Curtis leading the offense, Neodesha has the potential to improve that number. Ellis completed over 50 percent of his passes, threw for over 1,000 yards, and also threw 11 touchdowns. Curtis caught 10 of those 11 touchdowns and racked up over 600 receiving yards. Gone from last year is leading rusher Randall McKinnis, but junior running back Phoenix Carpenter put up similar numbers, rushing for 495 yards and three touchdowns. On defense, Carpenter will be counted on for leadership at linebacker after recording 67 tackles last year. Linebacker Seth Strange had a nice sophomore season with 44 tackles. In his first year as head coach, Gillett knows he will have to rally his team together in order to bounce back from last year’s 2-7 record. “Our development as a cohesive team will be our key to success,” Gillett said. “Bringing our individual talents together and forming a team that works together.” 2-7 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 2A / Tri-Valley League Coach: David Gillett (1st year; 4th overall, 13-14) Assistants: Chris Hinshaw, Hunter Keith, Jake Carpenter, Gary Larson Offense: Power Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Evan Strange, OL/DL, 6-1, 235, Sr.; Mayson Ellis, QB/LB, 5-11, 210, Sr.; Phoenix Carpenter, FB/LB, 5-10, 235, Jr.; Kaiden Fuller, WR/DB, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Seth Strange, WR/LB, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Toby Curtis, WR/DB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Chris Aldrich, OL/ DL, 6-0, 255, Sr. Gallagher Martin

OSKALOOSA

Oskaloosa began the year low on numbers and when injuries hit, they hit hard. Hard enough, in fact, that the Bears wound up forfeiting its final three games of the season. That led to an 0-9 campaign in Matt Johnson’s first year as head coach after a long stint as assistant coach for the program. Johnson is hoping to find a little footing this year and generate enough interest to get the program’s numbers back up. Last year’s war on attrition led to a number of freshmen being forced into varsity action. While that made things tough on the Bears a year ago, it could pay some dividends this year. Even with graduation claiming starting playmaker Hunter Reed and four other seniors, Oskaloosa returns 11 players who started at some point last year. Half of those are sophomores this year who got baptized under fire a year ago. Sophomore Cord Perry will take over at quarterback after Reed and departed Eli Tarwater handled those duties last year. He’ll be joined in the backfield by senior Charles Freed, junior Eli King and sophomore Nick Henry with King a three-year starter. Much of the Bears’ experience will be in the trenches. Seniors Chris King and Daryll Hayes are joined as returning starters by sophomores Justin Miller and Kyle Sloniger with King a three-year starter and the team’s only player to earn All-Northeast Kansas League honors as an honorable mention selection.

The Bears struggled mightily on offense last year, scoring just 12 points. They were shut out four times in the first six games before having to forfeit games with West Franklin, Silver Lake and Northeast-Arma. The defense allowed at least 30 points in every game and averaged giving up 46 points a contest. Five starters are back along the defensive front. Oskaloosa opens the season with Atchison County for the second straight year and only plays four league schools. If the Bears can stay healthy, however, there could be an opportunity to advance from Class 2A district play to the playoffs with the spots beyond perennial power Silver Lake up for grabs. 0-9 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 2A Northeast Kansas League Coach: Matt Johnson (2nd year, 0-9) Assistants: Scott Whaley, Rod Stottlemire Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 11 Offense, 11 Defense Chris King, OG/DT, 5-11, 244, Sr.; Justin Miller, OT/ DT, 5-11, 278, So.; Charles Freed, RB/DB, 5-9, 153, Sr.; Daryll Hayes, OL/DE, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Eli King, RB/ LB, 5-11, 188, Jr.; Nick Henry, RB/LB, 5-7, 160, So.; Cord Perry, QB/DB, 5-7, 145, So.; Cannon Cramer, WR/DB, 5-6, 122, So.; Brayden Hast, TE/DE, 6-4, 180, So.; Kyle Sloniger, OL/DL, 6-4, 250, So. Brent Maycock

NORTON COMMUNITY

OSAGE CITY

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A talented 2018 senior class at Osage City High School went 17-5 in their final two seasons, with playoff wins in both years. Headlined by all-state quarterback Trenton Plinsky, Osage City will be replacing the majority of its production on both sides of the ball. The Indians will be relying on sophomores and juniors to keep the wins coming. Last year, Osage City went 8-2 before falling to Humboldt in the second round of the 2A playoffs. “We graduated a large, talented senior class that was a big part of our success the last few years,” head coach Andrew Gantenbein said. “Several of them were two and three year starters, so we are losing quite a bit of experience. We do return 12 letterwinners from last season though, and they will help lead the charge into 2019.” Mycah Ritchie is a big loss on defense after leading the team with 96 tackles, but Gantenbein knows he has a dependable two-way player in junior Dane Whalen. Whalen is the team’s leading returner in tackles (75), tackles for loss (29), and sacks (7.5) as a defensive linemen good for an all-state 2018. Whalen was also all-state on the offensive line and is one of the state’s top wrestlers. Outside of Whalen on defense, the Indians return four starters. Senior linebacker Ryan Smith had 10.5 tackles for loss to go along with 36 total tackles. Replacing production may be even more evident on the offensive side of the ball for Osage City. Not only did Plinsky lead the Indians through the air, he was also the team’s leading rusher with over 800 yards and 13 touchdowns. Junior Gunnar Fort, who had five catches for 94 yards and a touchdown last season, will transition to quarterback to replace Plinsky. Keegan Anschutz, a junior, and Brody Littrell, a sophomore, both saw equal action at running back last year. Littrell was the more productive back with 194 yards and two touchdowns. 4-5 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 2A Osage City will be young on offense and Mid-Continent League defense, but should be solid in special teams with Coach: Lucas Melvin (13th year, 93-43) Assistants: Tony Fiscus, Jeremy Hawks, Kevin Jilka all-league kicker and punter Dawson Butter. Still, the young players on the roster know only Offense: I Defense: 5-2 of success thanks to the previous senior class. Returning lettermen: NA “Our upperclassmen have been part of a good Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense amount of success,” Gantenbein said. “They Kade Melvin, QB/DB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Judson Wiltfong, OL/DL, 6-5, 215, Sr.; Carter Jones, WR/ should be able to draw positives from those experiences.” DB, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Connor Haresnape, WR/DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Brandon Vacura, TE/LB, 6-1, 185, 8-2 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 2A / Flint Hills League Sr.; Dante Smith, OL/DL, 6-1, 280, Sr.; Christien Coach: Andrew Gantenbein (11th year, 53-46) Hawks, OL/DL, 6-5, 255, Jr.; Alex Auker, OL/DL, Assistants: Jordan Tice, Mitch Foote, and Derek 5-8, 180, Sr.; Tucker Pfannenstiel, RB/LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Luke Wahlmeier, RB/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Patterson Gavin Sproul, RB/DE, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Jonah Ruder, Offense: Spread Defense: 3-5 WR/DB, 6-1, 180, Jr. Conor Nicholl Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense Gunnar Fort, QB, 6-2, 165, Jr.; Reid Crawford, WR/DB, 5-10, 140, Jr.; Dane Whalen, OL/DL, W. US Hwy 36 5-10, 230, Jr.; Ryan Smith, LB, 6-3, 170, Sr.; Luke Norton Neary, LB, 5-9, 165, Jr. 785-877-3359 Gallagher Martin

After a 7-3 season in 2018, Norton graduated a big class that included four-year starting quarterback Jace Ruder, a North Carolina signee. Norton slipped back to 4-5, the program’s first losing mark since a 3-6 year in ’11 and just the second year under .500 since the mid-’90s. Last fall, Norton opened 1-3 with defeats by at least 17 points against Mid-Continent League rivals Plainville, Smith Center and Phillipsburg. Then, Norton won three straight versus Minneapolis (397), TMP (24-0) and Ellsworth (35-17) before losses to Hoisington and Lakin by at least 22 points. Coach Lucas Melvin is in his 23rd season with the program and is entering his 13th year as head coach. Norton’s biggest roster loss from last fall is end Hayden Wiltfong, who signed with Fort Hays. However, quarterback Kade Melvin returns after a solid season where he rushed for 569 yards and eight scores and completed 96 of 180 passes for 1,419 yards and a 12/7 TD/INT ratio. Brandon Vacura had 98 tackles last season and Norton returns the majority of its starters and has a large senior class. Running backs Tucker Pfannenstiel, Luke Wahlmeier and Gavin Sproul return with starts from last year, and Carter Jones, Connor Haresnape and Jonah Ruder are expected to have a strong year at receiver. Four offensive line starters are back with Alex Auker, Dante Smith, Judson Wiltfong and Christien Hawks. Judson earned defensive MVP at the Fort Hays camp in late June and picked up a FHSU scholarship offer. Ten defensive players return who started at some point last season. Coach Melvin said concerns are lack of depth overall and a need for leaders to emerge. Norton returns more than 80 percent of its rushing yards, 65 percent of its receptions and five of its top-six tacklers, including junior Gavin Sproul (48 tackles, 11 TFLs). The Bluejays were plus-3 in turnover margin last season.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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Phillipsburg completed the first perfect season in school history and won its second state championship with a 13-0 mark and Class 2A state title. The Panthers were ranked No. 1 in the classification all season and had Trey Sides, a Division I Jacksonville University basketball signee and four-year starting quarterback. Sides earned all-state honors and played in the Shrine Bowl. Phillipsburg rolled through the regular season that included a 42-14 road win in Week 3 versus rival Smith Center, the two-time defending 1A state champions. In the playoffs, Phillipsburg delivered a comeback against Conway Springs and won 25-24 in a road quarterfinal matchup. In the semifinals, the Panthers briefly trailed in the second half before pulling away for a 31-14 win versus Hoisington. In the final, Phillipsburg defeated Riley County, 27-0. The Panthers captured the 2-1A crown in 2015 and are 9-2, 10-2, 11-2, 11-1, 12-1 and 13-0 in the last six seasons. In addition to Sides, the Panthers graduated all-state selections Treylan Gross (RB, 1,363 rush), Jaret Shelton (OL), Kasen Keeten (LB, 135 tackles), Nathan Moon (DB, 98 tackles) and Jon Hunnacutt (K, 10-11 FG, state’s all-time leader in kicking points). The Panthers return several key linemen, paced by senior Noah VanKooten, a starter since his sophomore year and first team all-league. Tight end/ defensive linemen Austin Miller was second team all-league. VanKooten and Miller are each 6-5 and together with 280 pound lineman Tyce Jerby the Panthers will have significant size up front. Ty Sides will take over full-time for his brother as the quarterback after he was first team wide receiver and second team all-league defensive back last fall. Coach J.B. Covington said the team returns “some quality players” on the line and secondary and believes the Panthers “could be a great defensive team.” The Panthers ranked fourth in offense (43.5 points per game) and second in defense (9.92 points per game allowed) in 2A. Key newcomers include senior linemen Zeb Lemon and Zack Johnson and RB/DB Jake Sisson, along with sophomore Brock Buresh. “Our schedule will be challenging but we feel like we have an opportunity to pick up from where we left off from last year,” Covington said. “We feel like we have a great chance to compete with the best teams in this class if we stay healthy. Our young men had a tremendous offseason and summer. We have to replace several outstanding players due to graduation but feel like the players that we have are ready after waiting for their turn to step up.”

West Franklin has its third coach in four years. Taking over the program is Nathan Teichgraeber, who spent the past four years as head coach at Flint Hills League rival Council Grove. Teichgraeber went 20-16 in that stint, guiding the Braves to three straight 6-3 seasons before going 2-7. Teichgraeber takes over for Mike Einspahr, who went 7-11 in his two years. The Falcons were 4-5 last year, but made the playoffs for the first time, falling in the first round to semifinalist Humboldt 52-15. In three of the four wins, West Franklin posted shutouts, outscoring Northern Heights, Lyndon and Central Heights 126-0. The other win was a forfeit from Oskaloosa. The Falcons were close to posting a winning overall record, losing 26-24 to McLouth in the second game of district play and suffering two other losses by 15 points. Teichgraeber inherits a team that has only five seniors on the roster and must replace a bulk of last year’s production. Five starters are back each way, but there are big holes to fill. Departed quarterback Clayton Noyons accounted for more than half the Falcons’ offense last year, rushing for 1,116 yards and 14 TDs and throwing for 132 yards. Second-leading rusher Brayden Singer (602 yards, 10 TDs) also has graduated. The battle for the quarterback job this year will be between senior Shane Birzer and junior Cameron Wise. Birzer ran for 196 yards and Wise had 156 last year. Whichever one doesn’t win the job will likely wind up in the backfield as well. Both Birzer and Wise will return as linebackers with Wise making 42 tackles and Brizer making 31. Riley Milliken is the leading returning tackler, also as a LB, making 46 stops a year ago. WIth Christian Smith (45 tackles) also back at linebacker, that unit is the unquestioned strength of the defense with Teichgraeber looking to replace last year’s entire starting d-line and most of the secondary.

13-0 in 2018 / 3-0 in district / 2A Mid-Continent League Coach: J.B. Covington (17th year, 143-41; 22nd year, 186-64) Assistants: Joe Buresh, Jon Weinman, Kendall Fiscus Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Noah VanKooten, OL/DL, 6-5, 260, Sr.; Austin Miller, TE/DL, 6-5, 215, Sr.; Parker Dibble, OL/DL, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Tyce Jerby, OL/DL, 6-0, 280, Sr.; Ty Sides, QB/ DB/RS, 5-9, 155, Jr.; Tyler Martin, DB, 6-0, 150, Sr. Conor Nicholl

With 176 students, Riverton High School is the second largest school in 2A behind Riley County. Still, the football program has had low numbers in recent years, but entering head coach Johnny Mallatt’s third season at Riverton, the tide may be turning. Last season, Riverton graduated just three seniors. While that is good in the sense that this year’s team will be full of experience, it means the Rams are not getting many students to play football. According to Mallatt, three years ago Riverton had 16 players on its roster. The next year it grew to 24, and last season the Rams had 36 on the team. Mallatt is striving for a 40-man roster this season. “Riverton has good athletes, but they don’t all play football,” Mallatt said. “We are in the process of changing that mindset. A small school needs kids to play three sports, and not specialize in just one or two sports.” The Rams went 2-7 last season and haven’t finished with a winning record since 2012, although Riverton did make the playoffs last year and in 2014 and 2016. Riverton took fourth in District 1 by picking up wins over Northeast-Arma (35-8) and SoutheastCherokee (22-8). “The best part of our season was being able to compete at our level in our 2A district,” Mallatt said. “Now the playing field is level for us.” Riverton returns the majority of its team from last year, including four players who earned All-CNC League honors. All four all-league players are seniors this season: quarterback/defensive back Bryce Johnson, running/linebacker back Gavin Gilmore,

4-5 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 2A / Flint Hills League Coach: Nate Teichgraeber (1st year; 5th overall, 20-16) Assistants: Troy McArthur, Brandon Becknell, Terry Messnger Offense: Flexbone Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Shane Birzer, RB/ILB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Owen Wells, C, 5-8, 210, Sr.; Philip Swank, CB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Riley Milliken, OLB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Cameron Wise, WB/ OLB, 6-5, 220, Jr.; Christian Smith, FB/ILB, 5-9, 210, Jr.; Jesse James Martinez, OG, 5-11, 200, Jr. BM

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After going winless in 2017 — its second 0-9 season in three years — Central Heights got things going in the right direction in Bob Risch’s first year as head coach of the program. The Vikings went 3-6 in 2018, its highest win total in a single season since going 5-5 in 2013. Risch hopes to build off of his first-year success and will bank on the return of eight starters each way to get it done. Having so many returning starters is the good news. The bad news is what little was lost to graduation was actually a lot. Especially in terms of offensive production as Heights will have to replace the three players that accounted for the bulk of it. Gone is All-Flint Hills League wide receiver Matt Cubit, who had 559 yards and five touchdowns. So is hybrid back Mason Roberts, who had a combined 1,292 yards rushing and receiving. And so is 1,000yard passer Devin Beers. The challenge of filling those voids will be key as Heights returns its offensive line virtually intact. Senior back Tony Kirkland ran for 240 yards last year, but is the only returner with more than 100. Defensively, leading tackler Colin Haynes is back after having 64 tackles last year. The unit will have to improve after giving up at least 22 points in all but one game a year ago. Heights scored 30 or more in all three victories last year — a 34-22 win over Wabaunsee, 30-6 over Oskaloosa and 40-27 over Erie in the season finale. But the Vikings only managed a total of 42 points combined in the six losses and were shut out three times. The season opener against Lyndon could be a good barometer as to where Heights is at. The Tigers also return a large number of players from a year ago, and is coming off a down season and has a new head coach.

RILEY COUNTY

The 2018 season was a whole lot of fun for Riley County. And not just because the program enjoyed one of the most successful seasons in program history, going 10-3 and reaching the Class 2A state championship game. After employing a ground-heavy offensive scheme for the bulk of his 35 years as head coach of the Falcons, veteran Steve Wagner showed some new tricks last year. Using more spread and a more balanced attack, the Falcons took flight offensively. Riley County averaged 35 points per game and quarterback Garrett Harmison broke vitrually every school passing record, finishing the season with 1,981 yards and 23 touchdowns. That included a 353-yard game against Silver Lake in the playoffs, a game in which the Falcons trailed by two touchdowns with less than two minutes to go in regulation before rallying for a 40-34 overtime victory. That avenged a 31-12 regular-season loss to the Eagles that kept Riley County from capturing the MidEast League title. The Falcons proved pretty good in redemption games, also avenging a 23-21 district loss to Southeast-Saline by beating the Trojans 3314 in the second round of the playoffs. The Falcons followed their redemption wins with a 46-16 rout of Humboldt in the state semifinals, advancing to the championship game for the first time since 1993. The bid for a state title ended with a 27-0 loss to Phillipsburg, but hardly tarnished the accomplishments for the season. Even with its new-found passing game, Riley County still showed its traditional ability to run the ball. Mikey Waggoner ran for 1,147 yards and 22 touchdowns and end Tristan Kulp added 611 yards and 12 scores on the ground. Both have graduated, leaving Wagner some big voids to fill at the skill spots around Harmison. Junior Nic Allen will take on a much bigger role in the offense this year after being a complementary piece 3-6 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 2A / Flint Hills League a year ago. Coach: Bob Risch (2nd year, 3-6) The Falcons will also have to rebuild the offensive Assistants: N/A and defensive lines with senior Kameron Brown the Offense: N/A Defense: N/A lone returning starter. Returning lettermen: N/A Brown and Allen are two of five starters back Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense on defense. The top-three tacklers from last year Josh Thompson, C/DL, 5-10, 230, Sr.; Johnathan are gone, including All-3A first-team linebacker Fox, OL/DL, 6-2, 260, Sr.; Brady Burson, TE/LB, 6-2, Waggoner (78 tackles) and leading tackler Wyatt 175, Jr.; Byrlon Oullette, OL/LB, 5-9, 200 Jr.; Tim Earhart (83 tackles). Smith, OL/DL, 6-0, 15, Sr.; Colin Haynes, TE/LB, 6-2, Linebacker Deon Barnes had 47 tackles a year ago 210, Sr.; Tony Kirkland, RB/DB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Cauy and Avrey Bockenicky added 45 from the secondary. Newell, RB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Hunter Bones, DB/WR, The Falcons’ schedule remains a tough one with 6-2, 165, Jr.; Tony Detwiler, DB/WR, 5-10, 160, So.BM back-to-back-to-back games against Centralia, Silver Lake and Rossville, the latter starting district play.

RIVERTON

and linemen Patrick McLaghlin and Trevor Parsons. This year’s Riverton senior class will feature 10 members, including a pair of senior transfers in running back/defensive back Austin Hendrix and running back/defensive back Cameron Jones. Hendrix played at Baxter Springs while Hendrix comes from Galena. Riverton also welcomes junior transfer Jax Palmer from Thomas Jefferson (Mo.) and sophomore Corbin Thrope from Galena. “Our entire senior class will be looked upon for leadership,” Mallatt said. “We will finally have a large senior class for our size of football team. That is something that we have not had around here in a long time.” 2-7 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 2A Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League Coach: Johnny Mallatt (3rd year, 3-15) Assistants: Danny Weaver, Adam Babcock, Kyle Dannelley, Blake Arehart Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Will Shawver, RB/LB, Jr.; Brayden Stewart, RB/LB, Jr.; Hunter Crowder, RB/LB, So; Kaylb Allen, RB/DB, Jr.; Bryce Johnson, QB/DB, Sr.; Ethan Shawver, RB/ LB, Sr.; Gavin Gilmore, RB/LB, Sr.; Jayden Faircloth, WR/P, Jr.; Walker Mallatt, RB/LB, Jr.; Domanick Rooks, TE/DL, Jr.; Titan Grieshaber, OL/DL, Jr.; Patrick McLaughlin, OL/DL, Sr.; Austin Anderson, C/ DL, Jr.; Trevor Parsons, OL/DL, Sr. Gallagher Martin

10-3 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 2A / Mid-East League Coach: Steve Wagner (36th year, 242-118) Assistants: Erik Willimon, Derek Winter, Jason Klein, Ian Peters Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 5 Defense Garrett Harmison, QB, 185, Sr.; Nic Allen, WR/RB/ DB, 175, Jr.; Kameron Brown, OT/DL, 270, Sr.; Deon Barnes, LB, 170, Sr.; Avrey Brokenicky, DB, 180, Sr.; Jack White, DE, 195, Sr. Brent Maycock

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

ROSSVILLE

After crashing back to earth a bit in 2017 following three straight Class 3A state championships, Rossville enjoyed a nice bounce-back season a year ago. The Bulldawgs dropped Mid-East League games to Silver Lake (17-14) and Riley County (40-25), but ran the table the rest of the way and put together a solid 8-3 season. The key to Rossville’s run was the emergence of Garrett Carver at quarterback. Entering the season in a three-way battle with Bo Reeves and Torrey Horak for the starting job, Carver grabbed control of the position and did nothing to relinquish it, turning in a season that was nearly as productive as the ones turned in by All-Staters Tucker Horak and Jacob Bradshaw during the championship seasons. Carver finished with 1,276 yards and 18 touchdowns rushing and added 1,269 yards and nine touchdowns passing. He’s one of only a handful of losses the Bulldawgs had to graduation, but his departure has veteran coach Derick Hammes looking for a new starting QB for the fourth straight year. Reeves and Horak lost out on the job a year ago, but will battle again for the position this year. Reeves emerged as Carver’s top receiving threat last year, catching 24 passes for 381 yards and four scores. Horak started defensively and ranked fourth on the team in tackles as a freshman with 51. Whoever wins the job will run behind a line that returns three starters led by senior Kody Davoren, who was a first-team all-league selection both ways last year. They’ll also have some solid skill players around them with junior back Tyree Sowers ranking second on the team in rushing last year with 566 yards and four scores. A defense that got stingier and stingier as the season went on returns seven starters including four of the top-five tacklers from a year ago. Senior Kaleb Badura led the Dawgs with 66 tackles, two more than junior Kaiden Brown — both earning first-team all-league honors. Rossville’s bid for a 2A state title ended in the state quarterfinals with a 24-22 loss to Humboldt. The Bulldawgs led 16-8 in the third quarter before seeing the Cubs rally with 16 straight points and thwart a game-tying two-point conversion. The schedule is again a challenging one with Rossville opening against Centralia, which reached the Class 1A quarterfinals last year. That precedes the War on 24 showdown with Silver Lake in Week Two. 8-3 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 2A / Mid-East League Coach: Derick Hammes (7th year, 63-11) Assistants: Dan Schneider, Derron Reddick, Todd Reeves, Thatcher Horak Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple/4-3 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Kody Davoren, OT/DE, Sr.; Bryson Balch, C/DE, Jr.; Kris Brown, OG, Jr.; Tyree Sowers, RB, Jr.; Kaiden Brown, RB/LB, Jr.; Bo Reeves, WR/CB, Jr.; Kaleb Badura, WR/SS, Sr.; Torrey Horak, CB, So.; Callen Bahner, DL, Sr. Brent Maycock

SENECA-NEMAHA CENTRAL

After a great run of success, a lot of streaks came to an end for Nemaha Central in 2018. The season-opening loss to eventual Class 3A state champion Sabetha took care of just about all of them. It ended a string of 29 consecutive regular-season victories by the Thunder and a streak of three straight undefeated regular seasons. The loss also ended the Thunder’s three-year reign as Big Seven League champions. But after a 1-2 start, which also included a tough 37-32 loss to Holton, Nemaha Central found its footing in Class 2A district play, going 4-1 to close the regular season with the only defeat in that stretch a last-minute 27-25 loss to Maur Hill for the district title. Nemaha’s postseason was short-lived, ending in the first round with a 26-13 loss to Southeast-Saline, finishing a 5-4 season — the program’s first season of fewer than seven wins since 2011. After averaging 35 points per game last year, the Thunder will have to fill some major voids on offense as graduation claimed all but four starters, including the bulk of last year’s offensive production. Senior back Gavin Duryea is the only returning starter at a skill position and ran for just 317 yards and six touchdowns last year, tying for the team lead in TDs. Who will fill the holes around Duryea is a huge question for veteran coach Warren Seitz, who must replace 1,500-yard passer Dalton Schmelzle and the team’s top-three receivers. Austin Ahlquist did have four of his nine catches last year go for touchdowns and could emerge as the team’s top threat in the passing game. Even with the loss of All-Class 3A end Matt Baumgartner, the strength for Nemaha Central will be up front. Three of four returning starters on offense are on the line, led by senior Nate Schultejans, and senior Easton Emmons and junior Nathan Deters return to the defensive front. Seven starters return overall defensively, including leading tackler Bryce Uphaus who had 81 tackles from his linebacker spot a year ago. Jackson Holthaus added 36 tackles and will team with Uphaus to give the Thunder a formidable linebacking tandem and Tyler Gerety returns in the secondary after picking off a team-high five passes last year. 5-4 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 2A / Big Seven League Coach: Warren Seitz (9th year, 65-19) Assistants: Cory Bass, Kelly Williams, Mark Mayberry, Terry Stueve, Jason Hajek Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 7 Defense Nate Schultejans, OL, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Gavin Duryea, RB, 5-11, 155, Sr.; Easton Emmons, DE, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Bryce Uphaus, LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Austin Ahlquist, CB, 5-10, 145, Sr.; Jackson Holthaus, LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Nathan Deters, OL/DL, 6-1, 210, Jr.; Tyler Gerety, S, 5-11, 165, Jr.; Evan Schmitz, OL, 6-2, 190, Jr Brent Maycock

SILVER LAKE

On the verge of keeping an undefeated season going and advancing to the Class 2A state semifinals, Silver Lake saw a 13-point lead over Riley County with two minutes left disappear. The Falcons stormed back for a 40-34 overtime win, bringing a stunning end to the Eagles’ season. It was still another stellar season for Silver Lake despite the heartbreaking finish. The Eagles captured the Mid-East League title for the third straight year and went undefeated in the regular season, with only one game decided by less than two touchdowns, a hard-fought 17-14 win over arch rival Rossville. That included a 31-12 win over the Riley County team that got revenge in the playoffs. Silver Lake finished 10-1 overall, its third straight 10-plus win season and 17th in the last 18 years as legendary coach CJ Hamilton continues to add to his state-record for coaching victories, now owning a 422-92 career mark. Many times throughout that run, Hamilton has had to completely reload offensively and that will be the case this year as graduation claimed the bulk of the guys responsible for the Eagles’ 49.1 points and 406.4 yards per game. The most glaring hole is at a position that’s long been a strength for the Eagles, quarterback. Twoyear starter Mason Griffin is gone after having thrown for 2,022 yards and 28 touchdowns with just one interception last season. The task of filling that void will fall to senior Cody Hay, who only attempted six passes last year, completing five for 45 yards. If replacing Griffin wasn’t enough of a challenge, Silver Lake also must replace leading rusher Christian Stoner (1,176 yards, 18 TDs) and its top five receivers led by all-leaguer Tristan Stoner (454 yards, 10 TDs). All three returning starters offensively are linemen, including junior tackle Caige Cromer, who was a first-team all-league selection. Seven starters are back for a defense that allowed just 13.2 points per game and pitched a pair of shutouts. Senior linebacker Gideon Remer ranked second on the team in tackles with 50 last year, while senior lineman Caden Cromer was a first-team allleague pick after having 22 tackles and seven TFLs. 10-1 in 2018 / 3-0 in district / 2A / Mid-East League Coach: CJ Hamilton (44th year, 422-92) Assistants: Warren Bledsoe, Travis Hamilton, Nick Hamilton, Trevor Hamilton, Mike VandeVelde Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 21 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 7 Defense Kyler Kaniper, CB, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Gideon Remer, LB, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Logan Matzke, S, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Cody Hay, S, 6-10, 170, Sr.; Caden Cromer, DT, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Jake Wegner, DT, 5-10, 190, Jr.; Connor Pruyser, DE, 6-1, 185, Jr.; Caige Cromer, OT, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Dusty Swain, OG, 5-11, 230, SR.; Mason Maldonado, OG, 5-10, 205, Jr. Brent Maycock

ST. MARYS

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With eight returning starters on offense and six on defense, the St. Marys Bears are looking for their first winning season since 2009. The Bears went 5-5 in both 2017 and 2013, but haven’t finished above .500 since going 10-2 10 years ago. St. Marys was 3-6 last year with double-digit wins over Rock Creek, Council Grove, and Atchison County. The Bears went 1-4 in a stacked 2A District 4. Riley County, Rossville, Southeast of Saline, and Mission Valley all finished ahead of St. Marys. The Bears plan to focus on what they can control in 2019. On offense, senior quarterback Caden Hurla will be back under center after starting all nine games last year. Hurla threw for 697 yards, eight touchdowns, and four interceptions. Hurla will look to improve upon a completion percentage of 43 percent. The Bears graduated their top two leading rushers, but do return starters Charles King and Isiah Holz at running back. King ran for 181 yards and three touchdowns while Holz only recorded 10 carries last season. Holz is the team’s leading returning receiver after catching eight passes for 133 yards and a touchdown last season. Senior Sam Moore also saw playing time at receiver last year and will likely fill into a starting role. Along the offensive line, the Bears return guards Brandon Brase and Miles Moore and tackle Peter Borderlon. In three wins last year, the St. Marys offense averaged over 37 points a game. In six losses, the Bears averaged just under eight points a game. Defensively, replacing Jonas Cruz and his 123 tackles will be the biggest concern. Brase had 59 tackles last year from his linebacker position. Holz, a free safety, had 48 tackles, while defensive end Scott Ewing had 43 tackles including three for loss. In addition to playing in a tough district, the Bears have the added difficulty of playing in the Mid-East League which features perennial power Silver Lake, who St. Marys will face week one. The Bears will step out of league play against perennial 1A power Centralia in week three. The Panthers were 8-3 last year. 3-6 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 2A / Mid-East League Coach: Myron Flax (5th year, 14-25) Assistants: Troy Biladeau, Casey Flax, Mark O’Halloran, Kevin Vanderbilt Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 6 Defense Caden Hurla, QB/P, 5-7, 152, Sr.; Isiah Holz, RB/ FS, 5-11, 162, Jr.; Charles King, RB, 5-9, 145, Sr.; Brandon Brase, G/LB, 5-9, 185, Sr.; Miles Moore, G, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Peter Borderlon, T/DT, 6-0, 235, Sr.; Scott Ewing, WR/DE, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Sam Moore, WR, 5-10, 155, Sr.; Daniel Ewing, LB, 6-0, 180, So.; Isaac Gallegos, CB, 5-9, 134, Jr. Gallagher Martin

STERLING

Brent Schneider, formerly the head coach at Ellsworth and Chase, has taken over Sterling this fall. The Black Bears had a three-win dropoff from 6-2 to 3-6 last season. He returns nine offensive and eight defensive starters. Brent Schneider replaced Derek Schneider, who coached two years. Sterling went 0-3 in league play. The Black Bears opened 0-3 with all losses by at least 23 points. After a 55-21 home win versus Lyons, Sterling fell 74-19 to Cimarron. The Black Bears followed up with a 34-6 victory at Ellinwood and were competitive against 8-2 Lakin in a 38-22 road loss. Sterling beat Southwestern Heights, 42-34, at home in three overtimes, and ended the season with a 38-13 road loss to Hoisington. Last season marked the fewest wins since an 0-9 year in 2014. Since then, Sterling is 4-5, 6-4, and 6-2. Sterling last played past Week 10 in 2012 with a 4-7 record. Senior Brady Meyers is a standout player who was first team all-league linebacker and second team all-league quarterback as a sophomore. Meyers, Weigel and Anderson are all entering at least their third years as starters. Brent Schneider graduated from Sterling High School and played football at Sterling College. In his one season at Chase the Kats went 2-7, scoring just 56 points in their first seven games.

The Kats then exploded for 56 points in each of their final two games, which, in a scheduling oddity because of the new district system, were both against Burrton. 3-6 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 2A Heart of America League Coach: Brent Schneider (1st year; 5th overall) Assistants: Eric Wenzel, Derek Schneider, Jaret Wohler Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 8 Defense Brady Meyers, QB/LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Logan Weigel, TE/CB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Brian Montoya, OL/DL, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Cade Wilkey, WR/FS, 5-9, 135, Sr.; Caden Webb, OL/DL, 6-0, 225, Sr.; Alan Anderson, RB/ DL, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Cody Royer, RB/DB, 5-8, 140, Jr.; Trevan Jones, OL/DL, 6-1, 205, So.; Trevor Ochs, OL/DL, 6-0, 140, So.; Cody Oden, WR/DB, 6-1, 165, So.; Kaz Comley, QB/DB, 5-8, 145, So.; Zach Surface, WR/DB, 5-8, 140, So. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

WATHENA-RIVERSIDE

After nine years with the program, WathenaRiverside head coach Scot Koranda announced his resignation from the program in early June. In July the Cyclones promoted assistant, and alum, Bryce Paden, to the head coaching position. Paden will be looking to guide the Cyclones to their first winning season since the team went 5-4 in 2014. For the second straight year, the Cyclones went 2-7 last year, but a few of those games could have gone either way. Riverside opened the season with four straight losses including a two-touchdown loss to Hiawatha and a one-point loss to Royal Valley. The Cyclones also dropped a 24-18 loss to a solid Pleasant Ridge team before ending their season with a blowout loss to eventual 2A State Runner-up Riley County. Riverside enjoyed success against Atchison County (61-12) and winless Horton (36-0). With five returning starters on offense and seven on defense, the Cyclones are hoping for more success than they’ve seen in recent years. The Cyclones will have some stability with senior Bradley Libel under center. Libel has seen starting time at quarterback and receiver in his career, but should be the primary signal caller this year. At 6-3, tight end Yegor Dittemore is one of Libel’s favorite targets. Also look for receivers Isaac Webb, Conner Hayes, Braden Chalfant, and Beau Horn to see plenty of action. The Cyclones are replacing running back Dawson Dick, but Quenton Barron provided secondary rushes last year in relief of Dick. The offensive line took the biggest hit in terms of graduation. Riverside is replacing four offensive linemen, but left tackle Luke Horn will be starting for the third year in a row.

WHITEWATER-REMINGTON

Page 113

Whitewater-Remington is still searching for its The Broncos compete in District 6, which feafirst winning record since 2010 after going 2-7 tures Conway Springs (10-1 overall), Hutchinson last year. Trinity (9-2), Chaparral (7-3), Garden Plain (6-4), The Broncos dropped their first seven games, and Wichita Independent (0-9). but will head into 2019 on a two-game winning Whitewater-Remington faced Sedgwick (8-2), streak after defeating Wichita Independent and Ell-Saline (7-3), and Inman (6-4) outside of its Cherryvale in Weeks 8 and 9. loaded district schedule. During their seven game losing streak, the In 2018, the Broncos went 0-2 against teams Broncos were held under 20 points five times and with losing records and 0-7 against teams with topped out at 22 points. During that stretch, the winning records. defense allowed at least 40 points five times. 2-7 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 2A / Big 7 Conference However, in Whitewater-Remington’s final two 2-7 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 2A Coach: Bryce Paden (1st year) games, the Broncos outscored their opposition by Heart of America League Assistants: Dave Losey, Dustyn Holland a combined 69-14, getting it done on both sides Coach: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A of the ball. Assistants: N/A Returning lettermen: 14 According to PrepPowerIndex, WhitewaterOffense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense Remington faced the ninth toughest schedule out Returning lettermen: N/A Bradley Libel, QB/WR/DB, 5-8, 135, Sr.; Luke Horn, of 48 teams in 2A. Returning starters: N/A Gallagher Martin LT/DE, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Yegor Dittemore, TE/DE, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Beau Horn, SB/OLB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; WICHITA-INDEPENDENT Antonio Franco, RG/DT, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Quenton For the first time since the 2014 season, Wichita faced the fifth-toughest schedule out of all 48 Barron, RB/LB, 5-7, 155, Sr.; Isaac Webb, WR/DB, Independent did not make the playoffs last year. teams in 2A. 5-11, 150, Sr.; Kaedin Juhl, LG, LB, 5-8, 195, Jr.; The Panthers went 0-9 and the closest they The last time Independent finished with a Ceynaan Byrd, C/NG, 5-8, 315, Sr.; Conner Hayes, came to a win was a 15-point loss in the season winless season was 2011. The Panthers followed SB/DB, 5-8, 125, Jr. finale against Neodosha. Independent faces that year with a 6-4 season in 2012; it was the Gallagher Martin a loaded 2A District 6 schedule that features last time the Panthers finished above .500. Conway Springs (10-1 overall), Hutchinson Trinity (9-2), Chaparral (7-3), Garden Plain (6-4), and 0-9 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 2A Whitewater-Remington (2-7). Central Plains League The Panthers competed against seven teams Coach: Eric Swenson (3rd year, 1-18) with winning records in 2018, including Sedgwick Assistants: N/A (8-2) and Douglass (7-2) in the first two weeks of Offense: N/A Defense: N/A the season. Returning lettermen: N/A According to PrepPowerIndex, Independent Returning starters: N/A Gallagher Martin While the offensive line will be inexperienced, the defensive line returns all four starters in Horn, Dittemore, Ceynaan Byrd and Antonio Franco. The Cyclones will be slightly inexperienced at linebacker, but return all four members of last year’s secondary. Paden, who was born and raised in Wathena, has spent three seasons as an assistant while also serving as the head coach of the Riverside baseball team.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 114

“Under the Lights”/from page 7__________________ Most State Championship Game Appearances Highest Winning Percentage by Schools in State Championship Games Schools That Met in Consecutive State Championship Games Year-by-Year State Championship Game Results Year-by-Year State Championship Sites KSHSAA Playoff Appearances – Alphabetical Listing by School Most Playoff Victories Year-by-Year State Champion and Runner-Up Team Records Overtime Games by Classification Undefeated State Champions Longest Winning Streaks of Playoff Era Year-by-Year Playoff Scores (1969 to 2018) Championship Game Statistics (All Classes) 15 Team Categories 20 Individual Categories Kansas Preps to the NFL

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What stories of the playoffs that are not told here, are still etched in the memories of players, fans, coaches and officials who witnessed them. Many of those are re-told year after year, embellishing the greatness of teams and players of another generation who came and played before. This book does not tell every single story of every single school of every single year, but it does capture the essence of five decades of playoff football. “Under the Lights: 50 Years of KSHSAA Football Playoffs,” is a must read for any high school football fan in Kansas and beyond. Press release provided by the Kansas State High School Activities Association.

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Class 1A

Here are 12 players to watch in Class 1A this fall:

The Cardinals, which had just 24 players last season, also returns key players Cody Crawford, Ben Hansen, Payton Rathbun and Jonah Smith. Smith Center alum Caleb Wick continues to build Jackson Heights into an elite program. JH improved their schedule with a regular season contest versus Olpe, and the two will match up again this year. The Cobras went 9-2 and allowed 12.5 points per contest, fourth in 1A behind Smith Center, Olpe (12-1) and Colgan (93). JH returns first team all-state lineman Carson Williams. The Cobras started three freshmen defensively in the 20-18 loss to Olpe in Week 4. Additionally, JH brings back senior running back Cooper Williams and linemen Riley Watkins. JH one of the state’s more experienced and talented lines. Olpe has senior quarterback Colby Hoelting and junior running back Kynden Robert back. Olpe beat Centralia, 20-18, and Colgan, 14-0, in the playoffs before the state title loss. Centralia was 8-3 against the No. 1 schedule in 1A, according to Prep Power Index. Kamble Haverkamp is back after a first team all-state season as the quarterback, or spinner, in the single wing offense. He tallied 1,470 rushing yards, 700 passing scores and 31 touchdowns accounted for. Centralia was top-10 in 1A in scoring offense and defense. Valley Heights again returns running Cole Coggins, who has back-to-back 1,200-yard seasons. VH went 6-3 and was fourth in offense with 39.6 points per game. Colgan has standout junior fullback Domenic Bevilacqua. After four straight quarterfinal showings from ’12-15, Colgan has posted semifinals, state runner-up and semifinals showings the last three seasons.

Troy posted a two-win improvement to 6-4 and produced three losses by a combined 16 points, including 36-22 to Centralia and 8-7 against Jackson Heights. QB Kipp Jasper, son of coach Derek Jasper, is one of 1A’s top signal callers. Sedgwick is known for its offense and produced 40.6 points a game, third-most in 1A last year. The Cardinals also permitted 15.9 points per contest, the program’s best scoring defense since at least ’04. The Cardinals have significant depth with more than 40 players out. Senior Kale Schroeder returns after a first team all-state receiver season with 768 receiving yards. Sedgwick has tallied at least 34 points a game every season in the last decade. Lance Hoffsommer is expected to take over for four-year starting quarterback Hooper Schroeder, a school record holder. Hillsboro and Inman went a combined 1-17 in 2017 and enjoyed big improvements last year. The Trojans jumped to 7-3, but graduated key players, while Inman went 6-4. The Teutons return sophomore quarterback Jace Doerksen and top targets Derick Johnson and Mason Carter. Elkhart took big graduation losses, notably two-time all-state quarterback Lane Whisennand, from a 9-1 squad that ranked among the best in school history. The Wildcats led 1A with 46.8 points per game. Jhon Haehn, the former Minneapolis coach, takes over for the Wildcats as former head coach Chris Hattabaugh becomes an assistant. Three of the five linemen return, along with senior fullback/linebacker Chace O’Hair (522 rushing yards, 81 tackles). Pleasanton enjoyed a breakout season with an 8-2 record as the Blu-Jays moved back to 11-man. Wide receiver Kasen McKee is back after he had 68 catches for 938 yards and 11 scores in coach Dustin Johnson’s spread offense.

Cole Coggins

Cole Coggins [Valley Heights] 5-9, 165, RB/DB, Sr.; 2,654 career yards, 40 TDs Logan Budy [Jeff County North] 5-11, 180, RB/KR, Sr.; Over 1,000 all-purpose, 12 TDs Colby Hoelting [Olpe] 5-9, 165, QB/LB, Sr.; 106 tackles, 1,100 yards, 15 TDs Cody Crawford [Plainville] 5-11, 175, WR/DB, Sr.; 295 yards rec., 5 TDs, 1 INT Tee Preisner [Northern Heights] 6-2, 240, TE/LB, Sr.; 400 yards, 68 tackles in 2018

Chace O’Hair [Elkhart] 5-10, 205, FB/LB, Sr.; 500 rush yards, 81 tackles Luke Lanning [Marion] 5-8, 190, OL/LB, Sr.; All-Heart of America linebacker Kale Schroeder [Sedgwick] 5-10, 175, WR/RB/DB, Sr.; 768 rec. yards, All-State Kalen Thielenhaus [La Crosse] 6-2, 235, OG/DE, Sr.; 53 tackles, 9 TFLs in 2018 Charlie Timmons [Smith Center] 6-1, 220, OL/DE, Jr.; Three-year starter Carson Williams [Jackson Heights] 6-2, 250, OL/DL, Sr.; Kpreps All-State Cooper Williams [Jackson Heights] 5-8, 165, RB/SS, Sr.; Topeka Cap.-Journal All 1A Offense

1. Smith Center 2. Plainville 3. Jackson Heights 4. Centralia 5. Sedgwick Others: Elkhart, Ell-Saline, Inman, La Crosse, Olpe, St. Mary’s-Colgan, Troy, Valley Heights By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Smith Center captured the Class 2-1A state title two years ago. Last season, Kansas added Class 1A for the first time since 1984. Virtually all of the top 2-1A squads moved into 1A. The results were similar. Smith Center was challenged in the regular season by Plainville and Ell-Saline, and then rolled through the playoffs, including a 59-0 championship victory versus Olpe. SC finished 12-1 for the second straight year with only loss to Phillipsburg. In ’16, SC lost to Plainville in the season opener and again in the sub-state game. In ’17-18, Smith Center picked up a close regular season victory versus the Cardinals and then had a big margin versus Plainville in sub-state. SC beat Plainville, 51-0, two years ago and 49-7 last fall. This season, Smith Center and Plainville should again be the west favorites, though have different strengths. SC graduates its top-three rushers, all whom delivered at least 665 yards. Linemen Joel Montgomery and Charlie Timmons are each three-year starters. Montgomery finished with 105 tackles, 12 for loss. Senior Trenton Colby is back at quarterback. SC has now won 10 state titles, tied with Lawrence for the most all-time by one team in state history, according to Prep Power Index. Plainville has one of the state’s top 1-2 combinations in senior quarterback Jordan Finnesy and senior fullback/linebacker Jared Casey. Both have Fort Hays offers. Finnesy could break multiple all-time Mid-Continent League marks, including total offense. Finnesy passed for 1,511 yards with a 19/9 TD/INT ratio, along with 956 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. Casey contributed 962 yards and 14 scores. He has 260 career tackles.

Kale Schroeder

KANSAS PREGAME CLASS 1A PRESEASON RANKINGS

Kasen McKee

12 PLAYERS TO WATCH Photo by Kenny Daniel

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ALLEN-NORTHERN HEIGHTS

Northern Heights was slow getting going last year and never really found its offensive footing all season, finishing 2-7. The Wildcats were shut out in their first three games and wound up scoring just 102 points all season, 60 of those in back-to-back wins over Yates Center (39-8) and Lyndon (21-12). The victory over Lyndon was the first in several years and wound up being their only league win. After getting swept in district play, Heights did show a bit of life in its playoff opener, pushing quarterfinalist Jackson Heights in a 36-28 loss. Co-head coaches Darwin Sweetman and Greg French hope to turn things back around this season with a bulk of last year’s starters back. Graduation did claim two-way first-team all-league lineman Moses Guerrero and starting QB Marcus Waters, but just about everyon else is back with seven starters returning on offense and nine back on defense. Despite its offensive woes of a year ago, Heights was pretty solid defensively for most of the season and gave up less than 30 points per game. Senior linebacker Tee Preisner spear-headed the unit and was an all-league selection after making 68 tackles. Preisner also did a little bit of everything on offense, finishing with a combined 400 yards rushing and receiving. He could be a bigger part of the offense this year from multiple positions and could see time in the backfield some after leading returning rusher Cameron Heiman (420 yards) moves to QB to replace Waters, who threw for more than 1,000 yards. Heights only produced three rushing touchdowns all season, but have largely relied on a strong passing game since French moved to a Spread offense. Senior receiver Weston Orender (248 yards) and junior back Isiaiah Smith will take on bigger roles, but the key could be replacing four of five starters on the line with senior Landon Delgado the lone returner on offense and massive senior Gabe Brammell (6-4, 320) the lone returner on the defensive front. 2-7 in 2018 / 0-3 in district / 1A / Flint Hills League Coach: Darwin Sweetman/Greg French Assistants: Joe Buchanan, Brett Barnett Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Tee Preisner, TE/LB, 6-2, 240, Sr.; Cameron Heiman, QB/RB/S, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Weston Orender, WR/S, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Landon Delgado, OL, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Braden Heins, CB, 6-3, 140, So.; Gabe Brammell, DT, 6-4, 320, Sr.; Tyler Floyd, LB, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Isiaiah Smith, RB/LB, 5-4, 160, Jr.; Skyler Arb, DE, 6-5, 200, Sr. BM

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Republic County has posted back-to-back 0-9 seasons and enters this year on a 19-game losing streak. The last victory for the Buffs was a 24-21 playoff win against Sedgwick in 2016. Republic County went 5-6 that season following a 4-5 record in 2015, two of the best records for the team in years. Last year, the first under veteran coach Faron Kraft, the Buffs lost every game by at least 30 points. The offense produced only 104 points on the season while the defense allowed 446, an average of nearly 50 points per game, the second worst scoring defense in the 31 team 1A classification. The good news is the Buffs return a wealth of experience with 22 lettermen and 13 players that started at some point last season. And the team will still be relatively young as only five of those returning starters are seniors. Eyann Zimmerman, the Class 3-2-1A 285-pound state wrestling runner-up to Lakin’s Hadley Panzer this winter as a junior, anchors the line at 6-foot-4, 255 pounds. He can deadlift 480, clean 295 and runs the 40-yard dash in 4.87. He has received collegiate interest from FCS and DII programs and attended the South Dakota State and Sharp Performance prospect camps this summer. The Buffs return all of the regular starters except one, and Kraft said there “is a lot of excitement” and the team has “depth for the first time” in a long time. Kraft has coached at many other schools, including Ness City/Dighton, Leoti and Medicine Lodge. “Our main goal in 2019 is to improve on last year by being able to compete in each game,” Kraft said. “If we can compete, we will be able to pick up some wins and improve on 2018.”

0-9 in 2018 / 0-3 in district / 1A North Central Activities Association Coach: Faron Kraft (2nd year, 0-9; 12th overall) Assistants: Brad Couture, Erik Dobbins Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 22 Returning starters: 12 Offense, 12 Defense Dan Rieke, OL/DL, 5-9, 195, Sr.; Eyann Zimmerman, OL/DL, 6-4, 255, Sr.; Hunter Hartner, OL/LB, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Trevor Martin, OL/DL, 5-10, 240, Sr.; Tate Lapo, QB/WR/DB, 5-8, 170, Sr.; Cody Gieber, WR/ DB, 5-8, 180, Jr.; Cody Dahl, QB/WR/LB, 5-9, 145, Jr.; Kaleb Talkington, RB/DB, 5-8, 145, Jr.; Jared Baxa, RB/DB, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Tyler Stindt, TE/LB, 6-0, 185, Jr.; Dallas Buss, OL, 6-1, 240, Jr.; Quintin Beeson, DL, 6-2, 200, Jr.; Nevan Benyshek, RB/LB, 5-11, 170, Jr. Conor Nicholl

CENTRALIA

After starting the season 0-2 with losses to MidEast League powers Rossville and Riley County, the Centralia Panthers rebounded by winning eight straight games before ultimately ending their season in the 1A quarterfinals with a 20-18 loss to Olpe. Centralia returns six starters on offense and defense, but losing Derek VanDorn and Daegan Steinlage to graduation will leave big holes to fill. VanDorn, a 6-foot-4, 280 pound lineman, was selected to play in the Shrine Bowl last June. Steinlage stands at 6-6, 240, and was another imposing figure on the offensive and defensive fronts in 2018. Replacing the size and strength of VanDorn and Steinlage will be difficult, but head coach Larry Glatczak always knows how to get the best out of his team. Entering his 14th year as head coach at Centralia, Glatczak boasts a 121-40 record, including state championships in 2009, 2011, and 2013. When asked about his goals for the 2019 season, Glatczak made it clear he has aspirations of playing for another state championship. “Our goals for this season are to get better everyday and to play on Thanksgiving weekend,” Glatczak said. The Panthers should be in good hands on offense with senior Kamble Haverkamp returning at quarterback. Haverkamp delivered 1,470 rushing yards, 700 passing yards and accounted for 31 scores last year, good for Kpreps all-state honors. In Centralia’s single-wing offense, returning linemen Austin Holthaus and Ian Haverkamp, tight end Tyler

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Heinen, fullback Noah Quigley, and running back Devon Feldkamp are also vital pieces of the offense. Those six names will all contribute on the defensive side of the ball, where the Panthers allowed an average of less than 17 points a game against the toughest schedule in 1A, according to Prep Power Index. Glatczak sees potential but says the team will need to come together to continue the program’s tradition of success. “Getting the players to gel and come together as a team will be a key to our success,” Glatczak said. “Team chemistry is so important at any level and I believe this team can come together and have a great season.”

With nine starters returning on both sides of the ball, Valley Heights is hoping to make some noise in 1A this fall. Centralia and Jackson Heights, who combined for three of Valley Heights’ four losses last year, are not going anywhere, however. Head coach Tony Trimble will not be focusing on other teams at the moment. He has an experienced and talented group of kids to work with that should be competitive in every game on the schedule. “We played a lot of young kids last year but that should translate into a very experienced group,” Trimble said. On offense, it all starts with senior running back Cole Coggins. In two seasons Coggins has accumulated 2,654 yards and 40 TDs, good for over eight yards a carry. He’ll be joined by senior running back Trey Martin and junior quarterback Cameron Beardsley. Martin started his high school career at Valley Heights before transferring to Rock Creek as a sophomore. Martin returned as a junior and scored 10 TDs. Beardsley is entering his third year as starting QB, which Trimble says is vital in the triple option. “With Cameron, Cole and Trey returning in the backfield, we are looking at an experienced group capable of doing some special things,” Trimble said. Replacing an offensive lineman and a fullback are the only concerns offensively. Trimble understands the importance of having a stout offensive line. “As a triple option offensive team, we believe in developing a line that takes pride in being able to line up and run the ball right at people,” Trimble said. Defensively, the Mustangs are just as experienced, but replacing two linebackers is a top priority. “We are still unsure of who will step in at fullback and linebackers at this point,” Trimble said. “Our first order of business will be to see who we can plug into those positions.” 6-4 in 2018 / 2-1 in district / 1A / Twin Valley League Coach: Tony Trimble (15th year, 73-61) Assistants: Ron Lee, Cody Trimble Offense: Triple Option Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense Cole Coggins, RB/DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Tyler Wagner, OL/DL, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Trey Martin, RB/DB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Cameron Beardsley, QB/DB, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Jackson O’Toole, DB/WR, 5-11, 155, Jr.; Bryson Kenwothy, OL/DL, 6-6, 245, Jr.; Jake Yungeberg, OL/ DL, 6-2, 220, Jr.; Evan Haines, TE/LB, 6-1, 165, Jr.; Colton Crook, OL/DL, 6-1, 215, Jr.; Cade Zidek, OL, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Trenton L’ecuyer, DB, 5-10, 155, So. Gallagher Martin

BROOKVILLE-ELL SALINE

For the second straight year, Ell-Saline enjoyed a strong season that ended with a tough loss to Plainville in the postseason. The Cardinals went 8-2 in 2017, but lost 27-20 to Plainville in double overtime. Last year, Ell-Saline lost 8-6 to Hutchinson Trinity in Week 3, fell 15-8 to Smith Center in the final seconds in Week 8, and lost 31-28 on a last-second field goal to Plainville in the playoffs. E-S graduated talented quarterback Nick Davenport, a multi-sport standout who played in the Shrine Bowl and signed with Butler Community College. He was first team all-state by Kpreps after he accounted for 29 scores, 2,290 total yards, 52 tackles and three sacks. Last year, Ell-Saline had an average score of 34-13.5. Two years ago, the Cardinals scored 26.2 points a contest and allowed 19.9. Senior Sawyer Kramer and junior Treyton Peterson, both key offensive playmakers, are both entering at least their third years as starters. Senior Luke Parks, also entering his third year as a starter, was a Kpreps first team all-state defensive back with 76 tackles, two for loss, two passes broken up, along with 972 yards and 11 scores. Longtime coach Terry King listed keys as a great summer, playing 7-on-7, attending summer team camp, “getting players in the right position where they can help our team the most,” and finding the right answer at quarterback. “Staying healthy,” King said of additional keys to success. “We will lack depth in certain positions, especially linemen. Must have a few younger athletes step up to the next level. Have some experienced players step up and take on some leadership roles. Stay together as a team and play for each other.” 7-3 in 2018 / 2-1 in district / 1A / Heart of America Coach: Terry King (21st year) Assistants: Kevin Patrick, Joe Roche, John Ludes, Brandon Toll Offense: Spread Defense: 50 Returning lettermen: NA Returning starters: 7 Offense, 8 Defense Noah Hopkins, C, 5-10, 250, Sr.; Owen Bradley, RB/ LB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Colton Bunting, OL. 6-4, 240, Sr.; Carter Underwood, OL, 5-11, 200, Jr.; Ty Chalmers, LB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Eli Hopkins, DL, 5-11, 175; Luke Parks, RB/SS, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Sawyer Kramer, SLOT/ RB/DB, 5-8, 130, Sr.; Caleb Hammonds, TE/DE, 6-3, 190; Treyton Peterson, WR, 6-1, 150, Jr. Conor Nicholl

ELKHART

Elkhart was ranked in the top-5 in 1A for nearly all season last year and finished 9-1 and just outside of the final Kpreps rankings. The Wildcats have captured three regional titles in school history, 1994 and the last two seasons. Former coach Chris Hattabaugh, who continues his roles of principal and athletic director at Elkhart, is now an assistant, and former Minneapolis coach Jhon Haehn has taken over as head coach. Haehn said Hattabaugh staying on staff “is a major win.” Elkhart graduated seven seniors, including Kpreps two-time all-state quarterback Lane Whisennand. He accounted for 1,028 passing yards, 1,679 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns. Elkhart does return three of its five linemen, along with fullback Chace O’Hair, whom Haehn believes “should have a monster year 8-3 in 2018 / 3-0 in district / 1A / Twin Valley League on the ground.” Coach: Larry Glatczak (14th year, 121-40) Emmanuel Moreno will take over under center, and Assistants: Roger Holthaus, Dusty Thompson, Jim Haehn just wants Moreno “to play within himself and Kramer, Tyler Glatczak do his job.” Offense: Single Wing Defense: 4-4 O’Hair will pace the defense after he led the team Returning lettermen: 15 in tackles last season. O’Hair rushed for 522 yards Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense and had 81 tackles. Moreno delivered 61 tackles, Kamble Haverkamp, QB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Austin along with six TFLs. Holthaus, OL/LB, 6-2, 235, Jr.; Tyler Heinen, TE/ Elkhart led 1A with 46.8 points per contest and DE, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Noah Quigley, FB/LB, 5-10, 190, ranked fifth with just 12.7 points allowed. Sr.; Devon Feldkamp, RB/DB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Ian Several of the returning staters were key on the Haverkamp, C/LB, 5-11, 175, Jr. undefeated 1A state champion baseball team in Gallagher Martin the spring and the football squads the last two falls, experience that Haehn calls a strength. Haehn said team weaknesses are a lack of depth at almost every position and a “true outside threat

at WR.” Haehn believes, like last year, Cimarron should be the toughest opponent in the league, and Plainville and Smith Center should lead the pack in Class 1A West. Elkhart defeated Cimarron last year, 27-20, in Week 1, and lost at Plainville, 29-13, in the playoffs. “Overall, we should have a good year, we will match up well with most of the schools in our league and should compete for the Hi-Plains League title again,” Haehn said. 9-1 in 2018 / 2-0 in district / 1A / Hi-Plains League Coach: Jhon Haehn (1st year; 6th overall, 15-33) Assistants: Chris Hattabaugh, Thane O’Hair, Alan Hibdon Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Emmanuel Moreno, LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Chace O’Hair, FB/LB, 5-10, 205, Sr.; Jaxon Hastings, SL/OLB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Garrett Hall,DB, 6-2, 240, Sr.; Barry Clark, OL/DL, 6-2, 160, Sr.; Tanner Hattabaugh, OL, 6-1, 165, Jr.; Tyler Reeves, OL/DL, 6-1, 180, Jr. CN

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ELLIS

Ellis has a new head coach in Ty Cass and brandnew assistant coaches in Trey Teeter and Chance Sowers. Cass was the former junior high coach and replaces Craig Amrein, an Ellis graduate and longtime assistant who served four years and went 1621. Teeter was a former all-state QB at Holcomb and won a state title under his father, Kent, the current Longhorn coach. Since back-to-back 5-5 seasons in ’10-11, Ellis is 4-5, 3-6, 4-5, 6-4, 4-5, 3-6 and 3-6. Last year, Ellis scored 19.1 points per contest and permitted 29.3 points a game. Ellis had seven seniors last year. Returning senior Zach Eck played QB most of the season, but Tegan Cain took over late and showed improved numbers. Overall, Ellis passed for 484 yards with a 33.3 percent completion rate with a 4/8 TD/INT ratio. Junior running back Konnor Pfeifer has played significant minutes since his freshman year. Two seasons ago, he had 69 carries for 301 yards and a TD. Last year, he delivered 77 carries for 331 yards and three scores. Cade Lewis graduated after he led Ellis in rushing with 123 carries for 663 yards and six scores. Auntonio Jones also graduated after generating 811 all-purpose yards, second-most to Lewis’ 1,178. Pfeifer led the team with 70 tackles, seven for loss. As a freshman, he delivered 54 stops. Cain was the kicker and was 12 of 15 on extra points. Sophomore Tyson Jiminez scored a pair of touchdowns and nabbed two interceptions last year. Ellis will again have two games versus La Crosse. Last year, Ellis opened 0-3, including a 14-7 loss to TMP, and then won, 44-34, at La Crosse. After a 2815 defeat at Syracuse, Ellis defeated Oakley (26-13), lost at Plainville (41-0) and then defeated La Crosse, 48-14, at home. Ellis played host to Sacred Heart in a Week 9 bracket game and fell, 34-7. The Railers expect just three seniors out with Jake and Zachary Eck and Brian Carbajal. “Improve each and every day from the first day of practice to the last game of the year,” Cass said of his team’s goals and keys. “If we do that, we will reach the goals that I will have set for the team: Fundamentally sound, mastering a new offense and defense, team cohesion, and work ethic.” 3-6 in 2018 / 2-1 in district / 1A Mid-Continent League Coach: Ty Cass (1st year) Assistants: Trey Teeter, Chance Sowers Offense: NA Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense Mason Gottschalk, LB, So.; Sam Honas, WR/CB, So.; Tyson Jimenez, WR/CB, So.; Tegan Cain, QB, Jr.; Konnor Pfeifer, RB/LB, Jr.; Zach Schiel, WR/CB, Jr.; Toby Woodworth, OT/DT, Jr.; Brian Carbajal, OG/ DE, Sr.; Jacob Eck, TE/SS, Sr.; Zach Eck, WR/LB, Sr. Conor Nicholl

HILLSBORO

Expectations were high for Jackson Heights in 2018 with a large number of starters returning from the 2017 squad that went 8-2. Safe to say, the Cobras matched them and did so quite capably. Heights captured its third straight Northeast Kansas League title, knocking off Maur Hill 14-0 in Week Three in a game that wound up deciding the league crown. The Cobras also went undefeated in district play in the new-look Class 1A, pulling out a tight 8-7 win over Troy in the district opener. Only a 20-18 loss to eventual Class 1A runner-up Olpe kept Heights from posting an undefeated regular season overall. The Cobras then advanced to the state quarterfinals, falling to Colgan 34-7 to cap a 9-2 season. With seven starters back each way, expectations to match or exceed last year’s success are in place. For the first time in three years, Cobra coach Caleb Wick won’t have a major overhaul in the skill players running his wishbone attack. After having to replace the bulk of his backfield each of the last two years, Wick returns his top performers. Senior Cooper Williams made the move from QB to running back and finished with 1,586 yards, 17 TDs and all-league honors, despite playing through two torn labrums. Cable Wareham also returns at QB. The strength of the offense, however, has been the Cobras’ strength for several years now. After breaking in a host of young linemen two and three years ago, the unit is now an experienced, cohesive group led by 1A first-teamer Carson Williams. Senior Riley Watkins and juniors Taylor Wamego and Colby Doyle also return, while sophomore Hudson Roles and senior Trey Manuel saw plenty of action last year. The group helped the Cobras average 27.7 points per game while also keying a defense that allowed just 12.6 points per game. The holes left by graduation are a bit more glaring on the defensive side of the ball. Departed linebacker Conlon Bruggeman was the heart and soul of the defense and led the team with 132 tackles. He’s one of three first-team all-leaguers who is gone. A trio of sophomores who played complementary roles last year should step in and fill some of Heights’ holes. If they are up to the task, the Cobras should find themselves as contenders for the 1A state title.

7-3 in 2018 / 2-1 in district / 1A Central Kansas League Coach: Demetrius Cox (1st year) Assistants: Robert Haude, Scott O’Hare, Dennis Boldt Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: N/A Caleb Potucek, Sr.; Hunter Hein, Sr.; Matthew Potucek, So.; Jamari Harris, So.; Jamari Harris, So.; Tristan Rathbone, So.; Dillon Boldt, Jr.; Austin Rempel, Jr. Gallagher Martin

9-2 in 2018 / 3-0 in district / 1A Northeast Kansas League Coach: Caleb Wick (8th year, 48-21) Assistants: Toby Cowdin Offense: Wishbone Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Carson Williams, OT/DT, 6-2, 250, Sr.; Riley Watkins, OG/DT, 6-2, 240, Sr.; Joel Kennedy, TE, 6-4, 185, Sr.; Cable Wareham, QB/DB, 6-1, 160, Sr.; Cooper Williams, RB/SS, 5-8, 165, Sr.; Taylor Wamego, OT/ DT, 5-10, 290, Jr.; Colby Doyle, C/DL, 5-10, 260, Jr.; Dylan Thompson, RB, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Jason Bosley, LB/RB, 6-0, 170, So.; Grant Amon, LB/RB, 6-2, 170, So.; Hudson Roles, OG, 6-3, 360, So.; Trey Manuel, OT, 6-2, 250, Sr. Brent Maycock

JOHNSON-STANTON COUNTY

Stanton County graduate and former SC head coach Bret Kendrick returned for his second stint as head coach last year. The Trojans opened with a 41-0 season-opening road win at Beaver (Okla.) and then lost three straight to Lakin (40-14), at Cimarron (66-8) and versus Meade (48-0). After a 22-12 home win against Sublette, SC had an open date. SC ended the season with a 51-8 home loss to Elkhart, a 38-8 road defeat to Syracuse and a 44-10 road loss to Inman. Overall, Stanton County scored 13.9 points per game and allowed 37.4, basically the same production as the year prior. In ’17, SC went 3-6 with 12 points per contest and 37.1 allowed. Stanton County has not captured more than three wins in any of the last six seasons. However, in the first stint with Kendrick, Stanton County went 6-3, 6-4, 8-2, 4-6, 4-6, 3-6, 10-2, 9-2 and 8-2 from ’04-12. SC will again be in the only three-team Class 1A district, along with Elkhart and Syracuse. SC has dropped five in a row to Lakin dating back to ’14, and six consecutive to Elkhart since ’13. The Trojans are 0-11 versus Meade from ’06-11. SC has won two straight versus Beaver and four

HOLTON-JACKSON HEIGHTS

Former assistant Demetrius Cox is taking over the head coaching duties at Hillsboro High School in 2019. For Cox and the Trojans to duplicate their 2018 success, many new faces will have to step up immediately. Hillsboro graduates a large senior class that includes its leading passer, rusher, receiver and tackler. The Trojans went 7-3 last season and made the second round of the 1A playoffs before succumbing to St. Mary’s Colgan, 45-20. The Trojans rattled off six straight wins at one point in the season and dominated Yates Center, 75-20, in the first round of the playoffs. Hillsboro had no bad losses last season, losing to 3A Hesston in Week 1, 42-36, as well as 1A state runner-up Olpe, 28-6, in Week 8. Hillsboro’s seven wins are the most the program has had in a single season since going 10-1 in 2012. From 2013-2017, the Trojans had a combined nine wins. With seven starters gone from last year’s team and a new head coach, there should be plenty of competition in practice leading up to the team’s first game against Hesston. “Every position on the offensive and defensive side of the ball is wide open going into fall camp,” Cox said. “There will be a lot of players battling for key positions.” The Trojans will lean on the experience of seniors Caleb Potucek and Hunter Hein. Potucek is an athlete who can play multiple positions while Hein is primarily a receiver. Hillsboro has a trio of sophomores who should see significant playing time in Matthew Potucek, Jamari Harris and Tristan Rathbone. Also look out for juniors Dillon Boldt and Austin Rempel to crack the rotation. For Cox, the focus is on much more than wins and losses. “One goal will be to build on the success from last season, but most importantly to bring a group of guys together as one and to help develop them into better young men in the classroom, at home, within the community, on the football field, and in life,” Cox said. “As a coach I believe that wins and losses will take care of themselves as long as we take care of what we can take care of.”

consecutive against Sublette. 2-6 in 2018 / 0-2 in district / 1A Hi-Plains League Coach: Bret Kendrick (12th year)

INMAN

The Inman High School Teutons took care of business at home last season and enjoyed one of its best seasons in recent memory. The Teutons were 5-0 at home last year including a 44-10 win over Stanton County in the first round of the 1A playoffs. Although Inman’s season came to an end the following week in a loss at Elkhart, it was still a solid season for head coach Lance Sawyer, who went 0-9 in 2017. According to Sawyer, the Teutons are ready to take a step forward in 2019 and not backward. “Our growth has been outstanding and we are ready to see results again on the football field,” Sawyer said. “We have a determined group of guys that have made tremendous strides in the past nine months. We have confidence that a district title is attainable as well as a deep run in the playoffs.” The Teutons return six starters on offense and nine of defense. Offensively, Jace Doerksen returns at quarterback and is also an all-league defensive back. According to Sawyer, Doerksen has one of the best receivers to throw to in the Heart of America League in Derick Johnson. Sawyer also says Johnson will be a tough cover for anyone in the state. At 6-2, tight end Mason Carter is another option in the passing game. Inman should have a potent rushing attack with Nate Shober, Justin Schroeder and Kolby Blank in the backfield. Shober led the team in rushing two years ago as a freshman, while Schroeder is a tough, down-hill runner. Blank had a promising start last year, but his season was cut short due to a broken arm. On defense, Inman returns four defensive backs, two linebackers and three defensive linemen. Look for Schroeder at linebacker and Cole Hase on the defensive line for production and leadership. Sawyer says Inman has the biggest freshman class he’s ever coached, and this year’s team may be the most physical team he’s ever coached as well. “Our players will be fast and athletic,” Sawyer said. Throw in the fact that we are as strong as any team I have coached and I expect that we will be as physical as any team out there.” 6-4 in 2018 / 2-1 in district / 1A Heart of America League Coach: Lance Sawyer (4th year, 9-19; 13th overall, 39-71) Assistants: Greg Froese, Wyatt Meier Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 9 Defense Jace Doerksen, QB/DB, 6-0, 165, So.; Nate Shober, RB/LB, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Jacob Koop, C, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Justin Schroeder, RB/LB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Kolby Blank, RB/DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Sam Kleinherebrink, DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Derick Johnson, WR/DB, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Cole Hase, OL/DL, 5-9, 180, Jr.; Mason Carter, TE/ DL, 6-5, 170, Jr. Gallagher Martin

LA CROSSE

La Crosse had a very young team last season and Conor Nicholl took a three-win decrease to a 3-6 mark. However, La Crosse returns virtually every key player from 2018 for coach Jon Webster. Senior QB Hunter Morgan is back after he completed 62 of 122 passes for 860 yards with a 14/12 TD/INT ratio. All 1,345 rushing yards came from non-seniors. Sophomore Colby Stull delivered 123 rushes for 532 yards and three TDs as a freshman. Morgan had 96 carries for 409 yards and four TDs. All 56 catches came from non-seniors and five players caught a receiving score. The offensive line will feature some size with senior Kalen Thielenhaus (6-2, 235) and junior Lucas Webster (6-4, 228) both returning starters. The top-three tacklers return, led by 84 stops and 13 TFLs from senior Michael Showalter. Thielenhaus had 53 stops with nine TFLs, while Morgan delivered 48 tackles with two TFLs. Of the team’s 473 tackles, 88 percent came from returners. “Our goals for this season are to work hard

everyday and be the best team possible,” Webster said. “We want to be a team known for mental and physical toughness. We must stay healthy and our young athletes need to develop and raise their level of play each week.” 3-6 in 2018 / 1-2 in district / 1A Central Prairie League Coach: Jon Webster (11th year, 78-31) Assistants: Chris Delimont, Jack Garcia, James Courtney Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 10 Offense, 9 Defense Hunter Morgan, QB/DB, 5-10, 5-10, 171, Sr.; Colby Stull, RB/DB, 5-7, 153, So.; Keldon Day, FB/LB, 6-1, 178, Sr.; Blake Herrman, WR/DB, 5-9, 172, Sr.; Kaden Depperschmidt, WR/DB, 6-3, 179, Sr.; Brock Brown, C/DT, 5-8, 226, Sr. Michael Showalter, G/LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Kalen Thielenhaus, OG/DE, 6-2, 235, Sr.; C.J. Patterson, OG, 5-9, 192, Jr.; Lucas Webster, OT, 6-4, 228, Jr. Conor Nicholl

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

LEON-BLUESTEM

LYNDON

Leon-Bluestem is now on its fourth head coach in five years after Jeremiah Fiscus left the program to take the head coaching position at McPherson College. Ethan Haworth has been promoted from assistant to lead Bluestem, who is coming off a 1-8 season, but returns the majority of its team. Last year, the Lions lost their first four games and their last four games with a 30-27 win over Yates Center at the halfway point of the season.The Lions played Eureka and Fredonia within two scores, but were uncompetitive in the six other losses. But with nine returning starters on both sides of the ball, Bluestem is looking to turn things around. “Our keys to success this year will be the playing experience of our upperclassmen and attention to detail in everything we do,” Haworth said. On offense, replacing Hunter Clift, who rushed for 355 yards and five TDs and had 497 receiving yards and five more touchdowns, will be the biggest priority. Senior Nic Laidler is back at quarterback after throwing for 1,026 yards and six touchdowns. Laidler only completed 46 percent of his passes and threw 16 interceptions, but is the team’s leading returning rusher with 193 yards and a touchdown. Senior wide receiver Braeden Emmons is the team’s top returning receiver after catching 15 passes for 252 yards and a touchdown. Defensviley, the Lions will look to senior linebacker Luke Simon for leadership after he led the team with 62 tackles last season. Laidler, at safety, and senior d-end Alex Miller each added 55 tackles apiece. The coaches know they will need to rely on returning starters to set the tone as the team adjusts to another coaching change. “Our goals this year are to get better every day and to really focus on doing the little things right,” Haworth said. “We are really emphasizing doing things with a purpose and with confidence. I think that is a mentality that we as coaches should teach to the kids. Not only help them succeed on the field but in life as well.”

With only seven lettermen returning from its 2017 roster, Lyndon figured to see its recent string of success be tough to maintain in 2018. Sure enough, the Tigers struggled. After losing just nine games in Brent Hoelting’s first four years as head coach, Lyndon went just 3-6 last season. Hoelting’s contract wasn’t renewed and now Scott Jones is in charge. He served as an assistant for the Tigers the past five seasons, so he’s plenty familiar with the talent on hand. Hoelting was hired at Pratt. Even with Jones installing a new Spread scheme to replace the multiple formations that were ultra-productive for the Tigers under Hoelting, the experience on hand should make the transition a smooth one. No matter what scheme the Tigers run, line play should be a strength with six linemen back who started at some point last year. Junior Beau Baker was a two-way All-Flint Hills League pick last year and has started since his freshman year. The skill positions only lost receiver Lake Croucher, but more than 95 percent of last year’s production is back. Sophomore quarterback Darian Massey stepped in as starter last year as a freshman and threw for 517 yards and three touchdowns, but will have to work on his turnover rate after throwing 12 interceptions. He’s more of a passer than dual threat, rushing for just 65 yards last year. But the ground game is in good shape with Shawn Hinck (460 yards, 6 TDs) and Luke Detwiler (299 yards, 4 TDs) back. Junior Dustin Tobler also will contribute but is the undisputed leader of the defense after leading the team in tackles last year as a sophomore with 102. The top-seven tacklers return overall with Detwiler adding 67 stops and Mat Anschutz 63. Four blowout losses to Osage City, West Franklin, Troy and Jackson Heights saw the Tigers give up at least 35 points or more. In the other five games, the Tigers went 3-2 and had chances to win all five. The heartbreaker was a 30-22 loss to Valley Heights in the first round of the playoffs.

1-8 in 2018 / 0-3 in district / 1A / Tri-Valley League Coach: Ethan Haworth (1st year) Assistants: Joe Burgardt, Wade McHone, Grant Bachura Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 9 Defense Braeden Emmons, WR/CB, Sr.; Nic Laidler, QB/FS, Sr.; Luke Simon, OL/LB, Sr.; Alex Miller, C/DE, Sr.; Daron Potter, OL/DL, Sr.; Dakota Davis, OL/DE, Sr.; Tyler Gonzalez, WR/LB, Jr.; Kendall Keeton, RB/S, Jr.; Michael Harrison, OL/DL, Jr.; Logan Walden, WR/ CB, Jr.; Landen Wilson, WR/CB, So. GM

3-6 in 2018 / 1-2 in district / 1A / Flint Hills League Coach: Scott Jones (1st year) Assistants: Toby Baker, Todd Griffin Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 10 Offense, 9 Defense Tate Wells, WR/CB, Sr.; Shawn Hinck, RB/LB, Sr.; Mat Anschutz, OL/LB, SR.; Riley Payne, OL, Sr.; Beau Baker, OL/DL, Jr.; Tyrell Steinbach, OL/DL, Jr.; Miles Kitselman, OL/DL, Jr.; Nick Brooker, OL/DL, Jr.; Dustin Tobler, RB/LB, Jr.; Luke Detwiler, RB/DB, Jr.; Darian Massey, QB/DB, So. Brent Maycock

Oakley posted back-to-back 1-8 seasons before a bump to 3-6 last fall. Coach Jeff Hennick, who had previously enjoyed great success at his alma mater Sharon Springs, enters his third season leading the Plainsmen. Oakley mainly played two quarterbacks, and they combined for 47 percent completion rate, 1,090 passing yards and a 9/10 TD/INT ratio. Junior Eric Cain returns after he passed for 373 yards with a 3/7 TD/INT ratio. Three of the top-five rushers graduated, though junior Ethan Abell returns after he was second with 81 carries for 411 yards and led with eight rushing TDs. Senior Ellis Slack is back after he led with 23 catches for 632 yards and seven receiving scores. Morgan Rains graduated after 97 tackles and 448 rushing yards, both team-highs. Rains was first team Kpreps all-state at linebacker after he also recovered six fumbles. Oakley graduated nine seniors who played major roles after a season that started 3-1 before five straight losses. The Plainsmen dropped three games by a combined 17 points, including two by two apiece. Hennick said Oakley has low numbers and will need to stay healthy. “We have had some underclassmen play significant roles in games for the last couple years and will need them to fill in and carry the load full time for us,” Hennick said. Oakley has struggled in Mid-Continent League play with a 0-4 mark last season, 0-6 in ’16 and ’17, and 3-3 in ’15, a squad that finished 7-4 and went to the state quarterfinals. Oakley’s last victory against a MCL team was a 33-12 home win versus Plainville on Oct. 23, 2015. Last year, Oakley scored 20 points a game and permitted 24.6, after it scored 10 ppg and allowed 37.8 ppg two years ago. “The MCL is always a very competitive league,” Hennick said. “The front runners of the league in my thoughts will be Smith Center, Phillipsburg, and

Plainville, teams that have made very deep runs in the playoffs the last few years. Norton could be a sleeper in the league.”

OAKLEY

MARION

Replacing the legacy and success of Grant Theirolf at Marion High School is going to take more than one season. In his first year as head coach, Marion alum Shaun Craft guided the Warriors to a 2-7 record that had its ups and downs. Craft’s first year was highlighted by blowout wins over Sterling and Leon-Bluestem, and the Warriors also played Hillsboro and Pleasanton, who were a combined 15-5, within a touchdown a piece. Craft’s inaugural season also included a five-game losing streak that the Warriors are hoping to avoid. With six returning starters on defense and four on offense, Marion will look to take steps in the right direction after a rough year. “We have a lot of players getting their first opportunity to start at the varsity level this season,” Craft said. “With the loss of several seniors from last season, a lot of kids will have to rise up to fill those holes. There should be a lot of competition for certain positions as none are set in stone yet.” Senior Luke Lanning will be a leader on both sides of the ball. Lanning is one of three returning offensive linemen, and an all-league linebacker. Junior Todd Palic continues the family tradition established by older brothers Kyle and Tyler as a standout offensive lineman and defender, state wrestling qualifier and discus thrower. Along with being experienced in the trenches, Marion returns four linebackers from a defense that struggled at times last year. The Warriors will rely on running back Jaxton Tracy on offense, but the senior is the only skill-position player returning. At QB, juniors Will Alleven and Hunter Helmer will be battling to replace two-year starter Chase Stringer. While Marion is not deep or experienced, Craft remains optimistic about the talent on his roster. “This might be the smallest team we’ve ever seen with only about 20 guys on the roster,” Craft said. “If we stay healthy and avoid injuries, we should still be able to compete in the league and make a run in the playoffs.” 2-7 in 2018 / 1-2 in district / 1A / Heart of America Coach: Shaun Craft (2nd year, 2-7) Assistants: Jordan Metro, Kyle Gfeller Offense: Veer Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 6 Defense Jaxton Tracy, RB/LB, 6-1, 190 Sr.; Todd Palic, OL/ DE, 6-1, 180, Jr.; Luke Lanning, OL/LB, 5-8, 190, Sr.; Matthew Christensen, C/DL, 5-8, 220, Sr.; Hunter Helmer, LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Braedon Mercer, LB, 6-1, 147, Jr. Gallagher Martin

MEADE

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After more than a decade as one of the pre-eminent powers in Class 2-1A, the Buffaloes went 5-5 in 2017 and finished 4-6 last year, the program’s first losing season since a 4-5 record in 2005. Coach Justin Powell is in his 14th year with the program and third as head coach. Powell and the program have went through a challenging time with the death of Kincaid Meyers, who passed away on June 3, 2017, at the age of 15 in an automobile accident. Meyers had played his freshman year with Meade in 2016 and made 21 tackles with one tackle for loss and half a sack. He recorded one interception. Powell said goals are to make it to the playoffs, develop the younger players that will need to have significant playing time, and “play with a passion like our fallen teammate Kincaid Meyers always played with.” Powell said three keys are leadership from the senior class, replacing the senior offensive line from last year and dedication in the weight room in the summer. Last year, Meade lost, 20-19, to Lakin in Week 1, and then fell to Cimarron, 44-6. The Buffs defeated Southwestern Heights, 43-14, and Stanton County, 48-0. Meade then dropped three straight to Elkhart (47-6), Sedgwick (42-7) and Inman (28-27). Meade finished with two road wins versus Sublette (49-14) and Syracuse (21-14) before a loss at Sedgwick, 20-2. Overall, Meade scored 22.8 points a game and allowed 24.3 points a game. The Buffs passed for 21 and rushed for 242 yards a contest. Senior Greyson Haynes returns after he rushed 146 times for 622 yards and four scores. Senior Caden Martin was the fourth-leading rusher with 78 carries for 454 yards and four TDs. Martin had 38 tackles and eight TFLs, the latter a team best. 4-6 in 2018 / 1-2 in district / 1A / Hi-Plains League Coach: Justin Powell (3rd year, 9-11) Assistants: Chad Rudzik, Bryan Luetters Offense: Single Wing Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: 6 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Jonathan Unruh, DB, 5-11, 150, Sr.; Caden Martin, RB/LB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Braden Howard, OL/DL, 5-10, 195, Sr.; Greyson Haynes, RB/LB, 6-0, 155, Sr.; Cullen Lumry, OL, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Korben Clawson, LB, 5-10, 156, So. Conor Nicholl

OLPE

Olpe’s 2018 season will read “best team in 1A not named Smith Center.” The Eagles rolled through the regular season as only Christ Prep Academy and Jackson Heights 3-6 in 2018 / 0-3 in district / 1A played Olpe within single digits. The Eagles began Mid-Continent League the playoffs with an 8-0 record and won their first two Coach: Jeff Hennick (3rd year, 4-14; 6th year, 34-20) playoff games against Uniontown and Pleasanton by Assistants: Drew Siruta, Jeff Dennis, Mike Rains a combined 105 points. Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 The competition became tougher in the quarReturning lettermen:12 terfinals, but the Eagles squeezed past Centralia, Returning starters: 5 Offense, 7 Defense 20-18. After blanking St. Mary’s Colgan 14-0 in the Ellis Slack, WR/DB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Aidan semifinals, the Eagles were blasted by Smith Center Stephenson, RB/DB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Ethan Abell, RB/ in the 1A championship game, 59-0. DB, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Dane Scheetz, TE/LB, 6-4, 180, Jr.; It was a bitter way to end an excellent season, but John Stoecker, OL/LB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Eric Annis, OL/ Smith Center was simply on a different level than DL, 6-3, 225, Jr.; Jenson Schoenfeld, OL/DL, 6-1, everyone else in its classification. 220, Jr.; Cody Zimmerman, WR/DB, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Olpe returns seven starters on offense and eight on Eric Can, QB/DB, 5-10, 150, Jr. Conor Nicholl defense which should make the Eagles contenders in 1A once again. “Our goal will be to get better each and every week, and hopefully be able to make a run in the playoffs,”

head coach Chris Schmidt said. The Olpe offense averaged over 34 points a game last year, but the Eagles will miss Blaine Hinrichs deeply. Despite missing the final five games of the season due to injury, Hinrichs rushed for 731 and 16 touchdowns. The Eagles do return running back Kynden Robert, who rushed for over 1,000 yards last year as just a sophomore. Quarterback Colby Hoelting is back and so are receivers Dawson McCarthy and Jordan Barnard. Hoelting’s favorite target, Cam Hoelting, is gone after the duo connected for 12 touchdowns. While the Eagles are replacing their best offensive lineman in Jose Garcia, Olpe welcomes back returning starters Seth Wright and Joel Dieker. The Olpe defense recorded five shutouts last year and held opponents to single digits in 10 of 13 games. The Eagles return eight on that side of the ball and should be just as lethal as last year assuming they can find qualified replacements for Hinrichs, Hoelting and Garcia. Schmidt, who is 108-32 at Olpe, knows his team will succeed if they do things the right way. “If we do the fundamentals of the game, which are block, tackle and execute, we will be okay,” Schmidt said.

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12-1 in 2018 / 3-0 in district / 1A / Lyon County League Coach: Chris Schmidt (13th year, 108-32) Assistants: Terry Smith, Todd Robert Offense: I-Backs Defense: 5-2 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 8 Defense Colby Hoelting, QB/LB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Seth Wright, OL/DL, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Hayden Rhodes, DE, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Joel Dieker, OL, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Dawson McCarthy, WR/S, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Wylie Redeker, TE/DE, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Kynden Robert, RB/CB, 5-7, 160, Jr.; Jordan Barnard, WR/CB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Ted Skalsky, LB, 6-0, 190, So. Gallagher Martin

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

PITTSBURG-ST. MARY’S COLGAN

According to the Prep Power Index archives, St. Mary’s Colgan is second in Kansas high school history in playoff wins. The Panthers increased their all-time total to 87 last year with three more playoff wins, eventually running into Olpe in the 1A semifinals. Colgan went 9-3 last year with backto-back losses in weeks four and five to Centralia and Abilene before winning six straight until falling to Olpe, 14-0. The Panthers were playing without star quarterback Cade Simmons in the semifinals due to injury, and his absence was evident. St. Mary’s Colgan produced just 99 yards of total offense and committed six turnovers in its season-ending loss. The Panthers will have to find a replacement for Simmons, who is gone to graduation. The offense will be replacing more than just Simmons as only five starters return from last year. But the defense will be stout with eight returning starters. Additionally, St. Mary’s Colgan returns 24 lettermen. “We lost a talented group of seniors, so finding replacements at key positions to fill the spots of those departing seniors will be our keys,” head coach Shawn Seematter said. The Panthers are losing their leading rusher and passer with Simmons, who combined for 1,927 yards and 15 touchdowns on the ground and through the air. Fullback Domenico Bevilacqua rushed for over 300 yards and had six touchdowns as a sophomore and will likely take on an expanded role for the Panthers this year. Senior Derek VanBecelaere had a limited role at running back last year but his share of carries is expected to grow. The Panthers return two offensive linemen in Johnny Goetting and Garrett Evans who both double as defensive linemen, as does Bevilacqua. St. Mary’s Colgan also returns three members of its secondary. Seematter guided St. Mary’s Colgan to a state championship appearance in his first season two years ago. He has set goals of winning state this year, but he knows that new faces will have to step up and lead in order to do so. “Having 2019 seniors step into those leadership roles in the summer and into the fall season will be our keys to success,” Seematter said.

PLAINVILLE

Plainville has enjoyed three excellent years with coach Grant Stephenson with a state runner-up and back-to-back sub-state losses. Every year the Cardinals have played Smith Center in the regular season and then again in the sub-state championship. Plainville went 2-0 against the Redmen in 2016, and 0-4 versus Smith Center the last two years. In each of the last two seasons, the Cardinals also have narrow playoff wins versus Ell-Saline. In 2017, Plainville defeated Ell-Saline in double overtime. Last fall, the Cardinals beat Ell-Saline on a last-second field goal. In 2018, the Cardinals finished No. 2 in the final Kpreps rankings to two-time defending champion Smith Center. Plainville lost, 49-7, to Smith Center in the sub-state championship. The Cardinals return an excellent 1-2 combination with senior quarterback Jordan Finnesy and senior running back/linebacker Jared Casey. Finnesy has back-to-back seasons with at least 950 rushing and passing yards, and Casey enjoyed 91 tackles, 11 TFLs, four interceptions, four fumble recoveries, six pass breakups, 962 rushing yards and 14 TDs. Finnesy delivered 57 tackles, eight interceptions, nine passes broken up, 1,511 passing yards, 956 rushing yards and 31 TDs accounted for. Finnesy, Casey, kicker Tanner Copeland, and lineman Ryan Junkermeier, who was a Shrine Bowler, were all first team all-state by Kpreps. Copeland and Junkermeier have graduated. The Cardinals graduated three receivers who combined for a total of 77 catches for 990 yards and 11 touchdowns. Casey is the leading returning receiver with 22 catches for 324 yards and three scores and athletic senior Cody Crawford returns after 11 catches for 295 yards and five TDs in 2018. Crawford is one of the state’s top long jumpers and runs 11.1 seconds in the 100 meter dash. Three returning linemen will help with offensive continuity. Stephenson has set goals to win league and districts and “then try to win one game at a time after that.” Stephenson said keys are staying healthy, staying positive on and off the field and maintaining good leadership.

PLEASANTON

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Sacred Heart had a two-win improvement from 2-7 to 4-5 in the second year under coach Garrett Galanski – and had a massive difference defensively. Sacred Heart opened the season with a 39-0 loss to rival Southeast of Saline and then fell 20-17 in overtime to Minneapolis. SH has lost five straight to SES and won eight in a row versus Minneapolis. Then, Sacred Heart defeated Ellsworth, 9-7, before a 45-31 road loss to a much improved Hillsboro squad that finished 7-3. SH had dropped four straight to Ellsworth before the victory. Sacred Heart then defeated La Crosse, 37-0. It marked the first matchup versus the Leopards since ’11; SH was 0-2 against La Crosse in ’10-11. Then Sacred Heart lost 55-0 at Smith Center, and 14-9 at rival Ell-Saline. Sacred Heart carried a 2-5 record into Week 8 and defeated Republic County, 37-6. The Knights traveled to Ellis for a Week 9 playoff contest and played well in a 34-7 victory. Sacred Heart fell in a rematch to Smith Center, 56-7, the two-time defending state champions. Overall, SH had 18.1 points per contest and permitted 24.9 a game. Two years ago, the Knights scored 21.7 points per game and allowed 41.6. The 16.7 defensive points per game improvement over ’17 ranked second in 1A to Troy (17.3). Sacred Heart finished 3-1 at home after a 0-4 home mark in ’17. Mac Hemmer returns at quarterback after he took over for an injured David Anderson, who had significantly played all four years. Anderson threw for 912 yards on 48 percent completion with a 9/8 TD/INT ratio, while Hemmer, who led the playoff victory versus Ellis, with 568 yards, 48 percent completion and a 5/4 TD/INT rate. Hemmer went 2-1 in games where he threw more than 16 passes. In the Ellis victory, Hemmer completed key passes on 4th-and-11, 3rd-and-27, 3rd-and-10 and 2ndand-18. Two of the plays went for touchdowns. Sacred Heart graduated all-purpose threat Trace Leners, who earned Kpreps first team all-punter after he averaged 38.4 yards per punt, and also had 37 catches for 691 yards and eight scores. Defensively, Leners had 111 tackles, 12 for loss and four forced fumbles. Paco Garcia graduated after he easily led the team with 174 carries for 699 yards – no one else had more than 112 yards – and four rushing scores. 9-3 in 2018 / 4-0 in district / 1A 8-2 in 2018 / 2-1 in district / 1A / Three Rivers League Charlie Skidmore graduated after 21 catches for 469 Mid-Continent League Coach: Dustin Johnson (5th year, 19-19) yards and six touchdowns. Coach: Grant Stephenson (5th year, 31-15) Assistants: Dillon Roberts, Jason Toms, Seth SH forced 20 turnovers and was plus-3 in turnover 9-3 in 2018 / 3-0 in district / 1A Assistants: Ryan Becker, Justin Casey, Dean Gabbert, B.J. Skipper margin. Crawford-Neosho-Cherokee League Brown, Steve Buresh Offense: Spread Defense: Offense: Air Raid/RPO Defense: Multiple Coach: Shawn Seematter (3rd year, 19-6) Multiple Returning lettermen: 13 4-6 in 2018 / 1-2 in district / 1A Assistants: Brad Snow, Clint Heffern, Nick Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense North Central Activities Association Thimesch Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Kasen McKee, WR/FS, 5-8, 145, Sr.; Blake Pohlmier, Coach: Garrett Galanski (3rd year, 6-12) Offense: Option Defense 4-4 Jared Casey, RB/LB, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Jordan RB/WR/LB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Cole Cunningham, WR/LB, Assistants: Jordy Webb, Shane Richards, Michael Returning lettermen: 24 Finnesy, QB/DB, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Ben Hansen, C/ 6-0, 165, Sr.; Eli Brandt, OL/DL, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Aden Broome Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 8 Defense LB, 5-10, 170, So.; Jonah Smith, OG/DT, 6-2, 245, Dumcum, OL/DL, 6-0, 240, Jr.; Coleman Kelley, OL/ Returning lettermen: N/A DL, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Cam O’Berlachner, OL/LB, 5-11, Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Johnny Goetting, OL/DL, 6-3, 215, Sr.; Derek Jr.; Peyton Rathbun, OT/LB, 5-9, 185, Jr.; Cody Jared McCartney, RB/DB, 6-0, 160, Jr.; Gus Campa, VanBecelaere, LB/RB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Andrew Crawford, WR/DB, 5-11, 175, Sr. Conor Nicholl 160, Jr.; Tim Anderson, RB/LB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Wes Self, WR/CB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Caleb Secrest, CB, 5-10, OL/DL, 6-0, 225, Jr.; Manny Panuco, OL/DL, 5-11, Lomshek, DB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Garrett Evans, OL/ 160, Jr. Gallagher Martin 250 Sr.; Landon Power, WR/DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; DL, 5-9, 205, Sr.; Gianni Piccini, DB, 5-7, 150, Ethan Buckner, ATH, 6-4,210, Sr.; Nathan Ivey, OL/ Jr.; Blaise Dawson, DB, 6-2, 185, Jr.; Domenico DL, 6-3 ,210, Sr.; Mac Hemmer, QB/DB, 5-9, 170, Jr. Bevilacqua, FB/DL, 5-11, 235, Jr.; Kannon Keller, Conor Nicholl TE/LB, 6-1, 215, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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Pleasanton hadn’t played 11-Man football in 12 years, but it was like the Blu-Jays never left. Pleasanton enjoyed its best season under fifth-year head coach Dustin Johnson last year as the Blu-Jays went 8-2 which included a 28-22 playoff win over Marion. In fact, Pleasanton has improved every year under Johnson. In his first year, the Blu-Jays limped to a 1-8 record. The Blu-Jays jumped to 4-5 the next year, finished 6-4 the following year, and concluded with an impressive 8-2 record last year. Pleasanton improving its win total in 2019 would be difficult, but not impossible. The Blu-Jays return serious talent, but replacing quarterback Kaden McKee will be the biggest issue. However, the Blu-Jays are prepared to replace one four-year starting quarterback with potentially another one. Freshman Dale Gillespie is expected to take over Johnson’s Air Raid offense and he will have one of the best receivers in 1A to throw to in Kasen McKee. McKee had 67 catches for 968 yards and 13 touchdowns last year on his way to being named first-team all-state by both the Wichita Eagle and Kpreps. Blake Pohlmier also made himself a household name last year as a running back and receiver. He rushed for 954 yards while hauling in 234 receiving yards and 10 total touchdowns. Pohlmeir earned honorable mention all-state recognition by multiple media outlets. Receiver Cole Cunningham is another player to keep an eye on after he caught 18 passes for 234 yards and three touchdowns last year as a junior. “Having a freshman quarterback we know it will not be easy at first,” Johnson said, “but with the great supporting cast he has it should be an easy transition, especially with our veteran receiving core.” The Blu-Jays also return four offensive linemen who will pave the way for running back Tim Anderson, who rushed for 450 yards and six touchdowns. Defensively, the Blu-Jays return three defensive linemen, three linebackers, and three members of the secondary. “We have great team speed and with our spread offense and fast and physical nature up front and on defense, we can utilize multiple schemes and always be on the attack,” Johnson said.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

SEDGWICK

Sedgwick went 8-2 and posted their eighth straight undefeated district title. As well, the Cardinals averaged 40.6 points a game and permitted 15.9, the program’s best scoring defense since at least 2004. Sedgwick has tallied at least 34.1 points per contest every fall in the last decade, all but one under current coach Jeff Werner. He took a one-season hiatus in 2016. Two years ago, Sedgwick was 5-5 and scored 40.1 points a contest but permitted 25.4. The Cardinals graduated all-time leading passer Hooper Schroeder. Schroeder and linebacker Eric Kohncke graduated after first team all-state honors from Kpreps. Last year, Schroeder completed 63 percent of his passes, passed for 2,035 yards with 21 scores and rushed for 532 yards and 15 rushing TDs. Kohncke, a one-year foreign exchange student from Germany, delivered 136 tackles, 17 TFLs and four sacks. Returning senior Kale Schroeder was also first team all-state at receiver with 28 catches for 768 yards and four TDs. Sedgwick returns three offensive line starters, a group that Werner said “really improved” as 2018 went along. Linebackers Gannon Resnik and Mason Lacy return, and Sedgwick has substantial depth – more than 40 players out - and will allow many players to start just one way. Kicker Connor Tillman is back after he was one of the state’s top scoring freshmen going 48 of 52 on extra points, five of 10 on field goals (long of 45) with five touchbacks on 65 kickoffs. “New faces will need to step up and play a physical style of football in order to help our offense produce,” Werner said. “…How fast our offensive and defensive backfields can get up to speed will dictate how our early season will go.” Schroeder moves to full-time running back, and sophomore Lance Hoffsommer is expected to take over at quarterback. The goals remain the same: have a winning season, win district and win a playoff game. “The defense will have very good speed and will play an attacking style,” Werner said. “The defense will slant and stunt on every play. The key is to play downhill and run to the ball.” 8-2 in 2018 / 3-0 in district / 1A / Heart of America Coach: Jeff Werner (13th year, 89-35) Assistants: Doug Mabry, Wade Hansen, Chris Bailey, Tim Hendrickson Offense: Spread No Huddle Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Creighton Park, OL/DL, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Mason Lacey, WR/DB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Kale Schroeder, WR/DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Colby Mertens, WR/OLB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Gannon Resnik, OL/LB, 5-10, 195, Sr.; Kolby Hutton, RB/DL, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Qayden Shepherd, WR/DB, 6-5, 165, Sr.; Sam Culp, OL/DE, 6-2, 190, So.; Henry Burns, WR/DB, 5-10, 155, Jr.; Connor Tillman, K, 6-2, 175, So. Conor Nicholl

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Smith Center has captured back-to-back Class 1A state championships. Last year’s team had many similarities to the 2017 squad that went 12-1, lost to Phillipsburg during the regular season and outscored opponents, 659-78. Last year, SC again went 12-1, with a loss to Phillipsburg and outscored opponents, 549-109. SC has led its classification in scoring defense the last three years and permitted just 8.4 points per game in 2018. Smith Center opened with a pair of shutouts by a combined 85-0. In Week 3, SC trailed big early and lost, 42-14, to eventual 2A champion Phillipsburg. The season changed with a 21-10 road win at Plainville in Week 4. SC trailed much of the game, but led by fullback Hesston Maxwell, churned out a 22-play, 80-yard drive for a four-point lead with 7:52 left. For the third straight year, SC and Plainville met up again in the sub-state title game after a regular season meeting. Plainville captured both victories in 2016, while SC swept in ’17 and ’18. Last year, the Redmen held on to win at Ell-Saline, 15-8, in Week 8, and then won playoff games versus Oakley (35-0), Sacred Heart (55-7), Sedgwick (61-27), Plainville (49-7) and Olpe (50-0). Smith Center graduated its top-three running backs with Ethan Peterson (1,348 rushing yards), Colby Benoit (1,280) and Maxwell (665). The Redmen graduated Sports in Kansas Co-1A Defensive Player of the Year winners with Austin Hobelmann and Logan Zabel. Hobelmann had 119 tackles with nine TFLs and Zabel delivered 149 tackles, second-most for one season in Redmen history, according to mclhighschool.com. Seniors Joel Montgomery and Jaden Atwood are back after they combined for 207 tackles and 25 for loss. Junior Charlie Timmons has started since he was a freshman. “Again we have to replace some quality players,” coach Darren Sasse said. “We have experience back at many positions but how this group works over the summer and comes together as a team will decide how far we can go.” 12-1 in 2018 / 3-0 in district / 1A Mid-Continent League Coach: Darren Sasse (8th year, 56-14) Assistants: Mike Rogers, Brock Hutchinson, Shawn Stansbury, Matt Haack, John Lambert Offense: Wishbone/Belly Series Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 11 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Joel Montgomery, OL/DL, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Charlie Timmons, OL/DE, 6-1, 220, Jr.; Trenton Colby; QB/ DB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Aaron Moss, FB/TE/LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Brell Spiess, OL/DL, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Griffin Kugler, WR/DB, 6-1, 160, Jr.; Jaden Atwood, DL, 6-0, 160, Sr. Conor Nicholl

SUBLETTE

Sublette enters this year on a 32-game losing streak but returns 17 lettermen, the most the program has had in almost 10 years. Junior Brice Williamson is back after he led the team with 107 carries for 272 yards and four scores, and also completed 68 of 178 passes for 926 yards and seven scores. Senior Dylan Watson paced the squad with 26 catches for 541 yards and five scores. Coach Lance Carter was pleased with the strength and conditioning program and summer camp, and said Sublette could have 28 players out, the most in several years. Carter’s biggest concerns are a lack of experience winning games and starting a few underclassmen, but he believes “they can contribute successfully.” The Larks permitted 469 points, most in 1A, and scored 110 points, fourth-worst in 1A. Sublette’s closest game was a 22-12 road loss to Stanton County in Week 5 of 2018. Sublette’s last victory was 13-12 home win versus Lakin on Sept. 25, 2015. “It’s a group that doesn’t yet know how to win, but they are eager to learn and start a winning tradition,” Carter said. “Our 2018 stats don’t look impressive, but they are better than the four previous years by far. If we can blow our 2018 stats out of the water, we can be competitive. Defensively, we will need to be far more assignment sound, aggressive, and physical for us to be successful. Filling gaps, coverage, and tackling will need to be improved, for us to start a new tradition.” 0-9 in 2018 / 0-3 in district / 1A / Hi-Plains League Coach: Lance Carter (2nd year, 0-9) Assistants: Lyle Befort, Kason Siemens Offense: Spread Option Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 19 Returning starters: 10 Offense, 10 Defense Carson Thornton, WR/CB, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Dylan Watson, WR/LB, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Tyson Lundblade, DT, 6-5, 275, Sr.; Andru Morales, OL/DL, 5-10, 250, Sr.; Reese Garetson, WR/LB, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Tanner Randles, HB/CB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Dylan Mader, OL/DL, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Brice Williamson, QB/S, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Bryan Hernandez, WR/CB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Brecken Webber, OL/DL, 5-11, 280, Jr.; Damian Badillo, DL, 6-0, 270, Jr.; Alexis Trejo, OL/LB, 5-11, 230, So.; Tristan Friesen, S, 6-1, 215, So. Conor Nicholl

SYRACUSE

Syracuse had a one-win improvement under former assistant Dustin Doze last year. Syracuse’s last winning season was a 5-4 mark in ’05. The Bulldogs opened with a 20-6 road win against Southwestern Heights, and then lost to Oakley (33-12) and at Lakin (28-0). Syracuse posted back-to-back victories with a 46-14 road win versus Sublette, and a 28-15 home victory against Ellis. Syracuse has won six straight versus Sublette, and was 0-4 against Ellis from ’14-17. After a 40-0 road loss to Elkhart, Syracuse had a bye. Syracuse posted a 38-8 win versus Stanton County before a 21-14 loss to Meade in a Week 9 bracket game. Syracuse finished 3-3 in conference play. Overall, Syracuse scored 20.6 points per game and allowed just 19.8 points a contest, which ranked No. 11 in the 31-team Class 1A. Syracuse, Elkhart and Stanton County form District 8 and are part of the only three-team district in 1A. All other 1A districts have four squads. Syracuse had 34 passing yards and 225 rushing yards a contest last year. As well, Syracuse delivered 4.6 yards per carry and three quarterbacks combined for 19 of 53 passing (36 percent) for 343 yards with a 4/3 TD/INT ratio. Three of the top-four rushers graduated, and junior Kolbey Brummett is back after he was third with 62 carries for 293 yards with two rushing scores. Syracuse was plus-7 in turnover margin. Reece Hart graduated after he led the team with 91 tackles – no one else had more than 52 – and paced the squad with seven sacks. Two years ago, Syracuse scored 16.1 points a contest and allowed 29.4. “District champs, finding leadership and gaining confidence in an inexperienced backfield,” Doze said of his keys and goals for the season. 4-4 in 2018 / 1-1 in district / 1A Hi-Plains League Coach: Dustin Doze (2nd year, 4-4) Assistants: Casey Finlay, Tregg Thomeczek, Dustin Carson Offense: Wishbone Defense: 5-3 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Drake Durler, Sr.; Damien Rameriz, Sr.; Zared Vernon, Sr.; Juan Aguilar, Sr.; Brandon Pinto, Jr.; Kolbey Brummett, Jr.; Uriel Diaz, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

TROY

A little experience always seems to go a long ways for Troy. After graduating nearly every starter from its 2016 Class 2-1A state championship team, the Trojans slipped to a still respectable 4-5 mark in 2017. Returning almost every starter a year ago, Troy got back to its winning ways, going 6-4. It was awfully close to being even better. Two of the four losses were by a single point — 20-19 to KC Christ Prep and 8-7 to 1A quarterfinalist Jackson Heights. The other two losses came to 1A quarterfinalist Centralia, including a 41-18 defeat in the second round of the playoffs. Troy finds itself somewhere in between the last two years in terms of returning experience. Four starters are back on offense and three return on defense with line and linebacker play lacking the most experience. The offense is in very capable hands with the return of senior quarterback Kipp Jasper. He threw for 1,587 yards and 20 touchdowns last year while also rushing for 585 yards and seven more scores, earning first-team All-Twin Valley League honors. He’ll miss the services of his top-two receivers as older brother Reid has graduated after also being first-team all-league after having 685 yards and 10 receiving touchdowns. Bray Davies would have emerged as the team’s top target, but transferred to Riverside over the summer. Davies’ presence will be sorely missed on defense after picking off a state-best nine passes last year as a sophomore. He also recovered a pair of fumbles, accounting for 11 takeaways and earning first-team all-league honors. Filling holes on the lines will be the biggest challenge as graduation claimed all but two starters on offense and one on defense, including All-1A selection Jacob Mott and three-year starter Marcus Martinez. Seniors Cale Hamilton and Dillion Wells will be the blocks to build around offensively with Wells also the only linebacker returning on defense. Head coach Derek Jasper will have to rely on underclassmen to fill the Trojans’ holes, but the Trojans have done that well lately. Jasper won his 50th game last year. 6-4 in 2018 / 2-1 in district / 1A Twin Valley League Coach: Derek Jasper (7th year, 50-17) Assistants: Don Cash, Heath Whetstine Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 3 Defense Cale Hamilton, OL/DL, 5-10, 202, Sr.; Kipp Jasper, QB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Jacob Moore, RB/DE, 5-11, 210, Sr.; Tate Smith, WR, 6-0, 181, Sr.; Dillion Wells, OL/ LB, 5-9, 214, Sr. Brent Maycock

UNIONTOWN

From ’13-15, Uniontown went 6-3, 6-4, and 9-1 before tumbling back to 2-7, 4-5 and 1-8 last year. In ’18, the Eagles were picked to finish second in the league after they finished ’17 with just 12 players in the final three contests. First-year coach John Stark takes over the program from Jeremy Neville after Uniontown had multiple close losses. Uniontown returned its entire backfield in ’18. In the first two contests, Uniontown lost 20-6 to Southeast-Cherokee and then fell, 18-6, at Jayhawk-Linn. Southeast-Cherokee ended a 28-game losing streak with the Uniontown victory. SE led 6-0 late in the first quarter after a 15-play, 65-yard drive. Uniontown tied the score late in the first half, and the Lancers stopped the two-point conversion and kept the score at six. In the second half, SE delivered a scoring drive off a Uniontown fumble. The Lancers scored again off another Uniontown fumble and tallied the game’s final touchdown with 48 seconds remaining. SE ran 55 plays for 408 yards. After a 52-12 home win versus Northeast-Arma, Uniontown lost its final six contests. Notably, Uniontown fell 26-20 at Pleasanton and 7-6 at Yates Center in Weeks 6 and 7, respectively. Overall, Uniontown averaged 13.1 points a game and permitted 31.3 a contest. Uniontown is in its second two-year cycle of moving back to 11-Man football from the 8-Man ranks. “Our team’s goals for 2019 are to play hard, play together, and to compete in every game that we play in,” Stark said. “Keys to our success will be how well we execute and how hard we play.” 1-8 in 2018 / 0-3 in district / 1A Three Rivers League Coach: John Stark (1st year) Assistants: Dustin Miller, Tim Endicott, Drew Johnson Offense: Pro I Defense: 4-4 Returning lettermen: NA Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Ty Davidson, QB/RB/LB, 5-7, 150, Sr.; Jake Harvey, WR/QB/DB, 6-2, 150, Jr.; Drew Perry, WR/DB, 5-6, 130, Jr.; Zach Franklin, OL/DL, 6-1, 155, Jr.; Korbin Miller, OL/LB/DL, 6-1, 215, So.; Mark Blythe, OL/DL, 5-10, 255, So.; Zach Synder, OL/DL, 5-9, 175, So. Conor Nicholl

WABAUNSEE

Wabaunsee stepped away from Mid-East League competition a year ago, withdrawing from the league for football only as it struggled to stay competitive against the bigger schools. The Chargers hoped that despite a young team, the change in scenery would lead to more success in their overall record. Instead, Wabaunsee posted its second straight 1-8 season in Jess Rutledge’s debut as head coach after taking over for Brian Henry. Rutledge hopes to see more growth in his second year after playing a ton of young players a year ago, seeing where the pieces fit together best. The strength of the Chargers should be up front where four starters are back, inlcuding four-year starter Keaton Johnson and three-year starter Adam Miller. Freshman Jacob Meseke will step in at center for departed Noah Mills, but adds good size to a front line that will average 265 pounds. Johnson will also headline a defense that returns eight starters and is the leading returning tackler after ranking fourth a year ago with 57 tackles. Fellow linebacke Derek Wallin was right behind with 51 tackles and Jakob Schutter added 43 with seven for loss. Schutter was a starter on the offensive line the last two years, but will shft to an H-back spot as Rutledge looks to generate some more offense this season. Last year, Wabaunsee only scored 108 points, topping 20 just twice. Departed senior Travis McCall accounted for all but 106 of Wabaunsee’s 796 rushing yards last year, while the Chargers also must replace leading receivers Conner Brown and Tanner Imthurn. Sophomore quarterback Cade Oliver threw for 677 yards and eight touchdowns last year as a freshman starter and will have to carry the offense early as his new skill counterparts get up to speed. Rutledge likes the effort his team has put in during the offseason and senses a hunger to get the program turned around after five straight losing seasons. The schedule will afford some opportunities, though the district is a tough one with Centralia among the favorites in 1A this season and Valley Heights and Northern Heights each returning plenty of experience as well.

1-8 in 2018 / 1-2 in district / 1A / Mid-East League Coach: Jess Rutledge (2nd year, 1-8) Assistants: Kolby Harris, Garret Eck Offense: Pistol Spread Defense: 4-2-5 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 9 Offense, 8 Defense Keaton Johnson, OG/LB, 5-10, 230, Sr.; Austin Miller, OT/DT, 6-5, 260, Sr.; Adam Miller, OT/DT, 6-1, 290, Jr.; Jackson Frank, WR/NB, 6-0, 155, Sr.; Jakob Schutter, HB/DE, 6-4, 170, Sr.; Cade Oliver, QB/FS, 6-1, 165, So.; Dan Flach, OG, 6-3, 280, Sr.; Dawson Schultz, WR/CB, 5-6, 140, Jr.; Derek Wallin, LB, 6-1,1 70, Sr.; Eli Wollenberg, DE, 6-3, Yates Center went 2-7 last season under third Wildcats then faced perennial 8-Man power Clifton- 180, Sr.; Brayden Meseker, CB/WR, 6-1, 160, So. Brent Maycock year coach Ryan Panko, who served as co-head Clyde in the second round and lost 42-28. coach with Tanner Davis in 2017. The Wildcats open the 2019 season at JayhawkIn wins over over Northeast-Arma and Uniontown Linn before returning home to host Northeast-Arma the Wildcats held the opponent to 22 and six points and Southeast-Cherokee in consecutive weeks and respectively, but in all seven losses the Yates then going on the road to face Northern Heights. Center defense gave up at least 30 points and allowed more than 39 points in six of those losses. 2-7 in 2018 / 1-2 in district / 1A In late season losses to Colgan and Hillsboro the Three Rivers League Wildcat defense was torched for 70 and 75 points Coach: Ryan Panko (3rd year) respectively. Assistants: N/A The Wildcats have not won more than three Offense: N/A Defense: N/A games in a season since a 7-4 record in 2013 Returning lettermen: N/A at the 8-Man I level. In that season the Wildcats Returning starters: N/A avenged a 52-6 Week 2 loss to West Elk with a John Baetz 38-36 upset in the first round of the playoffs. The

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Page 121

WINCHESTER-JEFF CO. NORTH

Entering the 2018 season, the Jefferson County North High School football team was experienced along the offensive line, but unproven in skill positions. Fast forward a year and the Chargers are in the opposite position. The Chargers are replacing four offensive linemen but returning their entire backfield. With six returning starters on each side of the ball, JCN is looking to avenge a 2-7 2018 season — the first losing season in head coach Jeff Schneider’s four years. “The 2018 strength of schedule was very difficult,” Schneider said. “Of the seven teams we lost to, six had a winning record, four won in first round playoff games, and a fifth, Christ Prep, won the National Homeschool Championship.” On offense, senior Logan Budy is primed for a big year at running back. Budy was first-team All-Northeast Kansas League as a running back and return specialist. His explosiveness is evident through six rushing yards a carry, 10 rushing touchdowns, and two kickoff return touchdowns. Senior quarterback Boyd Tweed is another important component to the offense. If he can improve on his 418 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns, he and Budy will be a formidable duo on the ground. Senior wide receiver Mason Noll is a solid weapon when he has the ball in his hands. He had four touchdowns and 270 rushing yards last year. Along the offensive line, the Chargers will be led by junior Caleb McAfee and senior DJ Kaser. Similar names will lead the defense as well. The Chargers are stacked at defensive line with McAfee, Kaser, and Ryan Feldkamp all returning. Linebacker will also be a strength, with Budy expected to be the team’s leading tackler. Landon Gutschenritter is making the transition from defensive back to linebacker and will start, while Schneider is high on a couple other linebackers. The secondary should be strong with Tweed and Noll back in coverage. 2-7 in 2018 / 0-3 in district / 1A Northeast Kansas League Coach: Jeff Schneider (5th year, 26-14) Assistants: James Tweed, Cory Noll Offense: Option Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Logan Budy, RB/LB, 5-11, 167, Sr.; Boyd Tweed, QB/SS, 5-10, 155, Sr.; Mason Noll, WR/DB, Sr.; DJ Kasser, OL/DT, Sr.; Caleb McAfee, OL/DL, Jr.; Landon Gutschenritter, RB/LB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Ryan Feldkamp, TE/DE, So. Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 123

8-Man I

1. Canton-Galva 2. St. Francis 3. Hodgeman County 4. Central Plains 5. Madison Others: Hill City, Hoxie, Little River, Maranatha Academy, Oswego, Sedan, South Central, Udall, Victoria, Wichita Co.

Photo by Everett Royer

Jace Wilson

Photo by Everett Royer

Wylie Weems

Jayvon Pruitt

KANSAS PREGAME 8-MAN I PRESEASON RANKINGS

12 PLAYERS TO WATCH File Photo

Isaac Salmans [Hodgeman County] 6-3, 215, QB, Jr.; 1,237 pass, 916 rush in 2018 Chayde Snyder [South Central] 6-0, 178, QB/LB, Sr.; 2,802 career pass yards, 46 TDs Dalen Journigan [Hill City] 6-0, 170, RB/LB, Sr.; 1,053 all-purpose in 2018 Javon Allen [Bennington] 6-1, 168, WR/DB/KR, Sr.; 24 total TDs, 7 return TDs in 2018 Gage Girk [South Central] 5-10, 175, WR/DB/K, Sr.; 96 tkls., 11 INTs. in 2018

By Conor Niholl, For Kansas Pregame Perhaps no classification has experienced the difference from preseason rankings to postseason results than 8-Man, Division I in recent years. While some classes have consistently the same teams in the final contests, 8-Man I has featured eight different squads in the title games from 2015-18. In ’15, Spearville defeated Hanover. In ’16, Osborne beat St. Francis. Two falls ago, Hoxie bested St. Paul, and last year, Central Plains defeated Solomon. In ’15, Spearville was preseason No. 1, but Hanover was outside the top-5. In ’16, Osborne was preseason ranked fifth. For ’17, Hoxie was just outside of the preseason top-five, while St. Paul was not ranked and pulled two big playoff upsets. Last fall, Central Plains was preseason No. 2, and Solomon was not ranked. Central Plains had some key injuries, notably defensively, in ’17, and then was healthy last year. CP went 13-0 and permitted just 34 points, the best 8-Man scoring defense in at least 15 seasons. The Oilers defeated Solomon by the 45-point margin in the state title game. In the semifinals, CP beat St. Francis, and Solomon defeated Canton-Galva after the Gorillas fell to C-G in district play. Solomon and Canton-Galva led all of 8-Man with a plus-six win improvement from ’17, and Central Plains, St. Francis and Madison were plus-4. This year, Division I is again considered to be a deep classification and could feature two new finalists. The Oilers took big graduation losses, though Lawson Oeser and Jerred Bieberle are expected to step into bigger roles. Oeser delivered 78 carries for 675 yards and 17 rushing touchdowns. Canton-Galva went 10-2 with no seniors last fall. Senior quarterback Landon Everett and sophomore receiver Tyson Struber each picked off 10 passes on defense. Everett tallied more than 2,700 offensive yards. Struber delivered 42 catches for 572 yards and 14 scores. C-G opens with a key game against Little River and new coach Kevin Ayers. He has captured three state titles, two at Hodgeman County and one at Wallace County. LR was 7-2

Here are 12 players to watch in 8-Man I this fall:

Tyson Struber [Canton-Galva] 6-2, 180, WR/DB, So.; 42 rec., 572 yards, 14 TDs in 18 Brogan Myers [Cedar Vale/Dexter] 5-8, 205, RB, Jr.; 1,422 rush yards, 28 TDs in 2018 Jayvon Pruitt [Victoria] 5-6, 175, RB, Jr.; All-Central Prairie League Nasun Wasson [Madison] 5-8, 155, RB/DB, Sr.; 40.5 tkls., 5 INTs, 4 FFs in 2018 Wylie Weems [Hoxie] 5-11, 180, RB/LB, Sr.; 1,200 rush, 16 TDs, 111 tkls. in 18 Brock West [Maranatha Academy] 6-1, 170, WR, Sr.; 60 rec., 1,200 yards, 29 TDs in 2018 Jace Wilson [Oswego] 5-9, 160, RB/DB, Sr.; 2,906 all-purpose yards in 2018

and junior quarterback Graham Stephens is back. South Central finished 9-2 for the third straight season. Senior Chayde Snyder is a fouryear starter with 2,802 passing yards and 46 passing touchdowns, along with 179 tackles. Senior Gage Girk picked off 11 passes, is one of the state’s top kickers and a two-time all-state player. St. Francis, which was ranked outside of the preseason top-five in ’18, went 11-1 and finished in the final poll. Coach Nick Fawcett performed admirable work with increasing numbers and switching the offense to a Single Wing. The Indians return senior Brady Dinkel, a four-year starter at defensive back and three seasons at quarterback. And coach Fawcett is high on linemen Jesse Baxter and Colton Neitzel. Also in District 8, Leoti-Wichita County had its best season in more than 15 years with a 6-3 mark in the first year of the Brant Douglas era. WC returns quarterback Kayde Rietzke and was the No. 7 scoring defense in 8-Man at 17.6 points allowed. Hodgeman County returns senior running back Eli Salmans and junior quarterback Isaac Salmans. The brothers have excelled on both sides and helped HC to a 9-2 mark. Eli rushed for 1,829 yards, and Isaac passed for 1,237 with 916 rushing yards. HC returns four of its top-five tacklers from a squad that permitted just 19.6 points a game, No. 11 in the eight-man ranks. Madison enjoyed the third-best 8-Man defense with just 11 points allowed a game. The Bulldogs tallied a 9-1 year with a 30-26 playoff defeat to Solomon with coach Alex McMillian. Junior Nasun Wasson is back after a strong year at defensive back and one of the tailbacks in a deep backfield. Madison defeated Maranatha Academy, 32-22, in district play. Those two squads and Burlingame should again compete for the District 3 title. Madison averaged 46.6 points per game, and MA delivered 46.9 points a contest. The Eagles also enjoyed a four-win improvement and returns its standout duo of quarterback Nate Burdette and wide receiver Brock West. Burdette accounted for 44 offensive scores, and West had 60 catches for 1,204 yards with 29 receiving touchdowns. West tied the eight-man state mark for single game receiving scores with eight versus Chase County on Sept. 28. District 7 features Hill City, which will look to make the third playoff appearance in school history, and Victoria, which has missed the postseason just once from ’02-18. HC averaged 46.7 points a contest and returns senior all-purpose threat Dalen Journigan (1,053 all-purpose yards) and junior Brody McDowell (110 tackles). Victoria (7-3) took big graduation losses, though lineman Kirk Huser and running back Jayvon Pruitt are key players. District 1 could again be a close grouping after four teams either went 4-1 or 3-2. Oswego moved to eight-man football for the first time with new coach Matt Fowler, the highly successful coach at Spearville. Fowler installed the Single Wing and went 6-3. Cedar Vale-Dexter opened 5-1 and finished 5-4 when injuries took a toll. Oswego had 95 percent of its rushing yards from non-seniors, including 1,440 from Jace Wilson. Overall, Wilson delivered 2,096 all-purpose yards. He and CVD running back Brogan Myers were both first team all-state. Myers, as a sophomore, was leading Kansas in rushing before he was limited in the last 3.5 games. He had nine yards a carry and 1,422 yards. Conor Nicholl is a sports writer from western Kansas who has covered high school, college and professional teams across the state for more than 15 years.

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

ATTICA/ARGONIA

After missing the playoffs in 2017, Attica-Argonia was back in the postseason last year for the fourth time in five years. The Titans went 7-4 last year and made the quarterfinals of the 8-Man I playoffs, losing to eventual state runner-up Solomon, 14-6. Attica-Argonia began the year 3-0 before dropping back-to-back games against Caldwell and Udall. The Titans responded with two straight wins against Oxford and Medicine Lodge, but dropped the season finale against South Central. Attica-Argonia defeated Sedan in the first round of the playoffs and then got revenge on Udall, 42-36, in the second round. Attica-Argonia hasn’t had a losing season since the two schools combined for football in 2013, but the Titans will be low on returning talent entering 2019. The Titans return nine lettermen, including three starters on offense and four on defense. The program will also be learning a new offense and new defense to add to the difficulties. “How quickly we make the transition to our new offense and defense will be our keys to success,” co-head coach Luke Greenwood said. “We will need to have some young guys step in to replace our departed seniors.” The Titans must replace their leading passer and rusher in Blake Harnden and versatile multi-season starter Masen McDaniel. Harnden earned all-league honors while McDaniel earned Kpreps All-State honors following a 113 tackle, eight sack season. Look for senior running back Masen Miller to lead the offense. Miller is coming off a 2018 season in which he rushed for 163 yards and three touchdowns while also catching six passes and two more touchdowns. Miles Manns is the team’s leading returning receiver. Last season, Manns caught five touchdowns and had 259 receiving yards. Noah Phillips recorded 100 tackles for the Titans last year at linebacker. At 6-1, 180, Phillips will also play tight end for the Titans. Making the transition from the Pistol offense to Split Backs and the 3-3 to a 3-2 defense will be challenges for the Titans this year. Still, Greenwood says the goal for this season is to make the playoffs. 7-4 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 8-Man I Independent Coach: Luke Greenwood/Lance Vandeveer (7th year, 49-16; 10th year, 66-35) Assistants: Tyler Lampert, Monte Miller Offense: Split Backs Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 4 Defense Masen Miller, RB/DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Miles Manns, WR/ DB, 6-2, 160, Sr.; Aden Rausch, 6-1, 155, Sr.; Noah Phillips, TE/LB, 6-1, 180, Jr. Gallagher Martin

ATWOOD-RAWLINS COUNTY

Two years ago, Rawlins County had the best statistical defense in 8-Man football with just 8.8 points per game allowed in a 7-1 season. The Buffs then took significant graduation losses and had just one starter back, sophomore Cyrus Green at fullback and linebacker, and posted a five loss decrease. This year, the Buffs return virtually everybody from a 2-7 season. Junior Travis Chvatal completed 40 of 91 passes for 559 yards with a 5/3 TD/INT ratio. He led the team with 127 carries for 782 yards and seven scores, while Green had 125 carries for 704 yards and 10 scores. All of the rushing yards came from underclassmen, as well as 38 of 43 receptions. Ninety-five percent of tackles came from underclassmen. Green delivered a team-high 124 tackles, while junior Kendrick Woody had 77 tackles and senior Henry Kastens delivered 75 stops. The Buffs had 15 turnovers and were minus-7 in turnover margin. Rawlins County defeated Quinter, 50-44, in Week 2, and beat Lincoln, 60-44, in the season finale. All of the losses came by at least 18 points. The Buffs scored just under 20 points per game last season and allowed almost 50 per contest. RC’s 440 total points allowed left them as one of 10 teams in 8-Man, Division I, that allowed more than 400 total points on the season. Overall, they were sixth worst in points allowed in the classification, just ahead of West Elk’s 448 points allowed. With little depth, attention to detail and limiting injuries will be essential to improving on last year’s performance. “Take care of the little things and get better everyday,” coach Matt Smith said of his team’s keys to success. “We must stay healthy.”

Although the Bennington Bulldogs are searching for a replacement at quarterback, they do boast one of the most explosive athletes in the state in Javon Allen. The Bulldogs will do their best to get Allen the ball in open space as often as possible. The 6-foot-1 senior has elite track speed as evident by his third-place finish in the 100 meter dash in 2A and his second-place finish in the 200. First-year head coach Jay Macy will utilize Allen as a wide receiver on offense and a defensive back on defense, but it is perhaps special teams where Allen shines the brightest. Allen returned seven kickoffs for touchdowns last year while turning 11 receptions into scores and rushing for six more. The Bulldogs will find ways to get Allen the ball, but with quarterback JT Ohlson gone to graduation, the task becomes slightly more difficult. While Allen is a solidified starter and playmaker, Macy knows other players around him will need to step up for Bennington to have success in 2019. “We need to find a quarterback, running backs and improve in the offensive line,” Macy said. “Weight room this summer will be very important for us to have success.” Tyler Stanley looks like he will take over at quarterback after serving as Ohlson’s back up last year. Stanley has minimal experience with 14 pass attempts, 145 yards, and a touchdown. The Bulldogs lost their top three rushers not named Allen to graduation and return two offensive linemen. Defensively, the Bulldogs are replacing the majority of their production. Allen with 51 tackles and Stanley with 45 tackles are the team’s leading returning tacklers. Look for sophomore defensive lineman Terren Andrews and sophomore linebacker Brody Murk to 2-7 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man I step up after having solid freshmen seasons. Northwest Kansas League After going 5-4 last year, Macy has aspirations of Coach: Matt Smith (4th year, 16-10; 18th overall) taking a step forward in 2019. Assistants: Matt Green Offense: Pistol Defense: 3-2 “Our goals for the season are to improve daily and Returning lettermen: 10 qualify for the playoffs,” Macy said. Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense Henry Kastens, OL/DL, Sr.; Dominic Cassaw, RB/ 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I OL/DL, Sr.; Travis Chvatal, QB/DB, Jr.; Cyrus Green, Heart of America League RB/LB, Jr.; Kendrick Woody, OL/DL, Jr.; Laustat Coach: Jay Macy (1st year) Chessmore, OL/DL, Jr. Conor Nicholl Assistants: Bryan Shamburg, Brady Keith, Storm Myer Offense: Split Back Defense: 3-5 Returning lettermen: 11 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 8 Defense 501 Main St. Javon Allen, WR/DB, 6-1, 168, Sr.; Tyler Stanley, TE/ QB/LB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Tyler Dickerman, C/NG, 5-10 170, Sr.; Chase Anderson, E, 6-5, 180, Sr.; Gunner 785-626-3141 Brummette, DB, 5-7, 150, Sr.; Terren Andrews, OL/ DL, 6-0, 195, So; Brody Murk, LB, 5-7, 152, So.; Drayke Webb, E, 5-8, 165, Jr. Gallagher Martin

Atwood

BURDEN-CENTRAL

An explosive offense carried Central-Burden to a 6-4 mark and its second straight trip to the playoffs. The Raiders averaged 38 points per game and failed to score at least 22 points just once, a 48-0 loss to South Central in the second round of the Division I playoffs. Where that firepower will come from this year is the biggest question facing Central in 2019. Graduation claimed every skill starter from last year, including workhorse back Clayton Cook, who ran for 1,128 yards and 25 touchdowns, and is now off to Dordt College to play football. His absence will be felt just as much on defense after leading the Raiders in tackles with 96 and also having seven sacks from his end position. Secondleading tackler Tanner Groene (93 tackles) also graduated, leaving sixth-year coach Anthony Blair with some big holes to fill. Two of the three returning starters for the Raiders on offense are up front with senior guard Dylan Helbing and junior center Alex Hood providing a nucleus to build around. Senior end Lane Toon also returns as the Raiders’ only two-way starter back, playing cornerback on defense. Safety Chance Cook is the only other returning starter and should team with Toon to give Central a solid secondary to back up an inexperienced group along the first two levels of the defense. If young players can mature quickly, Blair likes his team’s ability to build off its recent run of success, which has included .500 or better seasons three of the last four years. After rough 0-5 and 0-4 starts to the season in 2016 and 2017, Central won four of its first six games last year and nearly picked off a fifth win before dropping a tough 32-28 decision to Udall. The Raiders went 4-1 in district play with the lone loss coming to Sedan and then opened the playoffs with a 32-12 win over Caldwell before running into South Central. 6-4 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I South Central Border League Coach: Anthony Blair (6th year, 25-24) Assistant: Leland Hill Offense: I-formation Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 2 Defense Alex Hood, C, 5-10, 200, Jr.; Dylan Helbing, G, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Lane Toon, TE/CB, 6-3, 160, Sr.; Chance Cook, S, 6-3, 155, Sr. Brent Maycock

Dine-in or Carryout

BURLINGAME

After making three straight trips to the 8-Man, Division I state semifinals, Burlingame was knocked out early in 2018, unable to keep up with surprising Canton-Galva in a 74-26 playoff loss. That ended an 8-2 season with the only other loss coming 26-24 to Madison, which ended the Bearcats’ run of three straight Lyon County League titles. Even though the Bearcats fell short of posting a fourth straight season of 11 victories, the season was a testament to where the program has climbed to under sixth-year head coach Jeff Slater. Burlingame had to replace 11 players from the 2017 semifinal team that earned postseason all-league honors, yet still maintained its high level of success with a slew of new starters. For the second straight year, Slater will have to reload in order to keep a run going that’s seen Burlingame go 47-8 during his tenure. Four players with starting experience were slated to return for the Bearcats, but late in the summer Slater reported that returning starter Phillip Kidwell would not rejoin the team, leaving the Bearcats with just three returning starters. As a result, Slater will have to replace the bulk of the team’s production on both sides of the ball. That includes the loss of four-year starter and leading rusher Seth Greenwood, who ran for 1,143 yards and 25 touchdowns, and quarterback Montana Giffin, who accounted for more than 1,500 yards and 29 touchdowns. Also gone is All-8-Man, Division I lineman Keller Snesrud, who helped clear the way for an offense which averaged 53.6 points per game. With the loss of Kidwell, junior Gavin Williams is the lone returning starter on the line. Kidwell also was Burlingame’s leading returning tackler with 59

Page 124

BENNINGTON

stops and the Bearcats graduated their top-four tacklers from a year ago. Senior Cole Thomas was a role player offensively last year, but will take on a huge role this year stepping in as the main running back to fill Greenwood’s shoes. Thomas was a first-team all-league pick at returner (two return touchdowns) and in the secondary (48 tackles). Senior Kade Kline will take over at quarterback to replace Giffin after starting in the secondary last year. Slater will lean heavily on juniors and sophomores to fill the voids and maintain the winning culture that’s been instilled in the program. The Bearcats will face several teams early in the schedule which will also be in rebuilding mode before closing district play with tough tests against Maranatha Academy, Madison and Lebo. Burlingame went 2-1 in those games last year, dropping a two-point game to Madison after outracing Maranatha (54-42). If the Bearcats do face a rematch with CantonGalva in the playoffs it will again be with one of the top teams in the state as the Eagles return every starter from last year’s semi-final run.

CALDWELL

Caldwell started the 2018 season 5-0 before the Blue Jays were decimated by injuries. Caldwell finished the season with a limp, losing three of its final four games, including a 32-12 loss to Central-Burden in the first round of the 8-Man Division I playoffs. Because of injuries, head coach Sean Blosser was forced to turn to inexperienced players to finish out the season. Blosser expects the Blue Jays to be a better team in 2019 because of it. “We dealt with injuries last year that will hopefully help our depth this year because those players had to step up last year and get varsity experience,” Blosser said. “The goal for this season is to become a team that prepares at the highest level possible each day and become a team that can compete at a high level.” The Blue Jays return five of eight starters on both sides of the ball, but the three seniors lost to graduation were three-year starters, including 8-Man All-Stars Corbin Rice and Jalen Risley. Junior Dru Volavka will be all over the field for Caldwell. Blosser lists him as a running back, receiver, and defensive back. The Blue Jays will look to get Volavka the ball in open space in a variety of ways. 8-2 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I Caleb Noyes, who played receiver last year, will Lyon County League step into the quarterback role. Noyes is a speedster Coach: Jeff Slater (6th year, 47-8) who will look to run Caldwell’s Spread Option Assistants: Eric West, Nick Brungardt offense. Offense: Ball Control Defense: 3-2 The Blue Jays also return two offensive linemen Returning lettermen: 13 along with tight end Trey Strnad. Defensively, the Returning starters: 2 Offense, 2 Defense Blue Jays return three defensive linemen. Cole Thomas, RB/DB, 5-10, 155, Sr.; Gavin The experience in the trenches should play into Williams, C, 5-10, 180, Jr.; Kade Kline, LB/QB, the physicality Blosser wants to see from his team. 5-10, 165, Sr. “The key to our success will be our physicality,” Brent Maycock Blosser said. “If we learn how to attack each day

and each opponent with tenacity and intensity, we will be able to find success as a team. If we can do that, we will put ourselves in a position to compete for one of the top four spots of our district.” 6-3 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I South Central Border League Coach: Sean Blosser (9th year, 49-30) Assistants: Jason McVeigh, Darin Ward Offense: Spread Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Dru Volavka, RB/WR/DB, 5-11, 155, Jr.; Caleby Noyes, QB, 5-8, 125, Sr.; Trey Strnad, TE/DL, 6-2, 180, Jr.; Kolbe Muns, OL/DL, 5-10, 200, Sr.; LA Thompson, DB, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Jude Stow, OL, 5-10, 150, Jr.; Colby Lee, LB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Marshall Ward, DL, 6-2, 170, Sr.; Cooper Bristor, DL, 5-8, 180, Sr.GM

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

CANTON-GALVA

Canton-Galva snuck up on teams last year and enjoyed its first winning season since 2013. This year, the Eagles will get every team’s best shot. After a 10-2 season that saw the Eagles fall one game shy of the 8-Man I title game, C-G returns its entire team and will have more depth than a season ago. Entering his third year, coach Shelby Hoppes has injected life into a formerly desolate program, and the sky’s the limit this year for Canton-Galva. “Having been through the grind of last year’s playoff run, those seniors got to experience what it takes to compete against high-level competition week in and week out,” Hoppes said. “We will need that experience and their leadership to compete at a high level again in 2019.” If opposing teams are to slow down a CantonGalva offense that averaged over 48 points a game last season, locking down senior QB Landon Everett and his favorite target, 6-foot-2 sophomore Tyson Struber, is where it begins. Everett is a dual-threat and Struber should emerge as one of the state’s top young receivers. Both Everett and Struber earned all-league and all-state honors a year ago. Senior offensive linemen Nick Pearson and Jay Nightingale will be two of the best in the WSL. Despite the talent at the quarterback and skill positions, Hoppes believes his offensive line will be one of the team’s biggest strengths. “I believe we return one of the top offensive lines in our classification,” Hoppes said. “They paved the way for a backfield that rushed for a total of just over 3,000 yards last season.” Defensively, Canton-Galva led the state with 27 interceptions last year — one away from sole possession of the state record. Again, it’s Everett and Struber in the secondary who garner the most attention, but keep an eye on linebacker Brandon Huff and d-end Connor Koehn as well. “Defensively, our secondary will be one of the toughest to throw against in 8-Man,” Hoppes said. “With a roster of almost 30 players, we should have quality depth at all positions, which is something we haven’t had since I’ve been here.” 10-2 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I Wheat State League Coach: Shelby Hoppes (3rd year, 14-7) Assistants: Tyler O’Connor, Ted Regehr, Jerrid Nightingale Offense: Pro-Style Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 11 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense Landon Everett, QB/DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Nick Pearson OL/DE, 5-10, 240, Sr.; Jay Nightingale, OL, 5-9, 250, Sr.; Keaton Littrell, OL, 5-10, 230, Jr.; Tyler Rummel, OL, 5-11, 200, Jr; Brayden Collins, RB/LB, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Kinser Colgin, WR/DB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Tyson Struber, WR/DB, 6-2, 180, So.; Mason Reedy, NG, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Connor Koehn, DE, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Brandon Huff, LB, 5-11, 180, Jr. Gallagher Martin

CEDAR VALE/DEXTER

From 2011-18, Cedar Vale/Dexter is 1-8, 2-7, 1-8, 6-4, 3-6, 5-4, 4-5 and 5-4 and could have another increase this year. Cedar Vale/Dexter opened last season 5-1, including a 64-32 road victory at Sedan in Week 5. Sedan finished 7-3. The only defeat was a 58-0 home loss to Caldwell in Week 3. But a key injury to running back Brogan Myers may have derailed an otherwise promising season. He was leading the state in rushing, though was slowed the final 3.5 games and finished the season with 162 carries for 1,422 yards and 28 scores with 8.8 yards per carry. Myers still earned all-state honors. The Spartans lost its last three games with close district contests at Oswego (22-16) and versus Central-Burden (32-20) followed by a road Week 9 bracket play defeat at Coldwater-South Central (50-0). “If we can stay away from injuries and continue to get better every game, we could have a real solid season,” coach K.B. Criss said, adding the Spartans need to, “FINISH better than we did last year.” Overall, CV/D averaged 34.4 points per game and permitted just 23.8, a massive defensive improvement of 22.2 points per contest from ’17. It marked the sixth-biggest defensive improvement in 8-Man football. The Spartans took third in a close District 1 that featured Sedan and Central-Burden at plus-41, and CV/D and Oswego at 3-2. “Not finishing strong is very disappointing and has left a bad taste throughout the offseason,” coach Criss said. Clayton Henderson passed for 649 yards with a 7/6 TD/INT ratio. Cole Criss delivered 12 catches for 220 yards and three touchdowns, while Colton Potter had seven sacks and Jimmy Rock picked off three passes. Arik Artherton delivered 68 tackles. Myers, Henderson, Artherton and Potter all earned all-league honors. “We are really going to have to get better up front and develop some kids,” Criss said. “We are short on linemen right now, so both the OL/DL overall concern me from a depth standpoint. Overall, depth is a concern.” Criss was previously head coach at Humboldt and is in the very rare position of serving as Superintendent of Schools and K-12 principal at Dexter, as well as a head high school athletics coach. 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I South Central Border League Coach: K.B. Criss (2nd year, 5-4; 13th year, 85-42) Assistants: Luke Wachter, Richard Artherton Offense: Multiple/Spread Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Brogan Myers, RB/LB, Jr.; Arik Atherton, OE/LB, Sr.; Clayton Henderson, QB/DB, Sr.; Colton Potter, OL/ DL, Sr.; Jimmy Rock, RB/DB, Sr.; Cole Criss, OE/DE, Jr.; Si Killman, OL/DE, Jr. Conor Nicholl

COLDWATER-SOUTH CENTRAL

South Central is a consistent winner in 8-Man football, but the Timberwolves seem to have run into a wall recently. For the third straight season, South Central ended its season in the second round of the playoffs. Last year, South Central dropped a 54-52 overtime thriller to Canton-Galva. The year before that it was a five-point loss to Hoxie, and the year before that it was a blowout loss to St. Franics. All three years the Timberwolves went 9-2, and all three years South Central’s season was over the second week of the playoffs. Entering his fourth year as head coach at South Central, Billy Nichols lists his main goals as getting out of the second round and staying healthy. If the Timberwolves can do the latter, there’s no reason why they can’t accomplish the former. For starters, South Central features one of the best quarterbacks and overall football players in 8-Man in Chayde Snyder. Last season, Snyder threw for 1,024 yards and 19 touchdowns while running for 950 yards and 16 more touchdowns. Snyder averaged nearly 23 yards a pass and five yards a run, while only throwing five interceptions the entire year. Snyder’s top three favorite targets are back. Junior Jonny Robles caught eight touchdowns last year on only 14 receptions, while seniors Gage Girk and Eli Jellison caught six touchdowns a piece. Jellison is the team’s second leading rusher behind Snyder after rushing for 293 yards and three touchdowns last year. The Timberwolves will be inexperienced in the

trenches, but do return sophomore lineman Owen Herd. Like the offense, Snyder is the leader of the defense as well from his linebacker position. Snyder recorded 119 tackles last season, eight of them for loss. Girk and Jellison are both vital parts of the defense as well, recording 96 and 79 tackles respectively. Girk had one of the best seasons as a defensive back in the state with 11 interceptions. South Central has finished 9-2 the last three years, but with five returning starters on offense and six on defense, inlduing Snyder on both sides of the ball, the Timberwolves could compete for a state championship in 8-Man Division I.

CLAFLIN-CENTRAL PLAINS

Central Plains enjoyed a remarkable season with a 13-0 mark and 8-Man, Division I state championship. The Oilers permitted just 34 points, which is the best 8-Man scoring defense in at least 15 years. Central Plains’ defense earned multiple honors as d-end Brett Liebl collected Sports In Kansas classification Defensive Player of the Year. As well, QB Myles Menges, offensive lineman Mason Doll, defensive lineman Grant Heldstab, Liebl, linebacker Alex Hickel and d-back Devin Ryan all earned Kpreps all-state. Chris Steiner earned coach of the year. Steiner, who also led Central Plains to a 13-0 mark and state title in 2014, said this was the best d-line he’d ever coached with Liebl, Heldstab and Doll. Heldstab did not play football as a freshman, and Doll and Menges had transferred from nearby Ellinwood earlier in their careers. Ryan was a twotime all-state DB selection. With Ryan, Menges, Hickel and Liebl leading the way, the Oilers have posted back-to-back perfect seasons in basketball as well. This fall, the Oilers have significant graduation losses with just three starters back. Jerred Bieberle and Lawson Oeser started both ways for a squad that ranked 11th in 8-Man football at 48.3 points per contest. Oeser had 78 carries for 675 yards and 17 scores. Bieberle led the team with 24 catches for 334 yards and eight TDs. Bieberle and Oeser were fifth and sixth with 91 and 82 tackles, respectively, tops among returners. The Oilers only challenges on the season were in weeks one and two against Ness City and Victoria, games they won 30-14 and 32-8 respectively. In each of the final 11 games the Oilers scored at least 42 points and allowed just six points or less, including nine shutouts. CP defeated Solomon, 52-6, in the state title game and held the Gorillas to negative rushing yards. “We would like to win all our league games in a very competitive league that includes opening with Ness City and Victoria,” Steiner said. “We would like to win our district and try to make another deep run in the playoffs. First off, with limited numbers we have to stay healthy to be successful. We have to take one game at a time and we want to improve each week. We need our young kids, and some kids that didn’t play very much last year, to step up and fill spots and create depth that was depleted by a talented graduating class.”

CLIFTON-CLYDE

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Coming off back-to-back 8-2 seasons, Clifton-Clyde was hoping for bigger things in 2018. In some ways, the Eagles delivered. Clifton-Clyde improved in the win department, posting an undefeated regular season and winning its playoff opener to reel off nine straight wins to start the season. But a run at the state title fell a little short of where the Eagles hoped as they ran into 2017 state champion Hoxie in the second round of the 8-Man, Division I postseason and suffered a heartbreaking 22-20 loss to conclude a 9-1 season. The Eagles were dominant before the Hoxie loss, scoring at least 46 points in every game and allowing only Victoria to score more than 14 points. For the season, C-C outscored its opponents 520-104. The script going into the season flips a little bit for the Eagles this year. Last year, Clifton-Clyde had plenty of known commodities in its skill positions, but had questions about how the offensive and defensive lines would mesh. This year, junior back Aiden Rudolph is the lone returning skill player while four linemen who started at some point are back. Rudolph served in somewhat of a complementary role to departed standout Drake Steinbrock, but will carry the load this year as the Eagles try to fill the holes around him. Last year, he ran for more than 600 yards. Seniors Eric Peterson and juniors Dillon Provost, Mason Ferron and Douglas Koch all return up front and had big offseasons in the weight room. Their experience could lead to veteran coach Russ Steinbrock going back to his power ground game offensively after the Eagles employed more multiple looks last year. As much as Drake Steinbrock will be missed offensively, his presence was even bigger defensively. He recorded 109 tackles and nine sacks and was a first-team All-8-Man, Division I selection. Clifton-Clyde will be relatively young with a large, talented junior class carrying the bulk of the load. The path back to the playoffs again is west with Hill City, Victoria, Stockton, Washington County and Lincoln in the same district as the Eagles. CliftonClyde only gets two games against Twin Valley League teams, the opener with Wetmore and district game with Washington County.

9-1 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I Twin Valley League 13-0 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I Coach: Russ Steinbrock (19th year, 113-72) Central Prairie League Assistants: Ryan Baxter, Rocky Fahey Coach: Chris Steiner (9th year, 76-14; 10th overall, Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 77-22) Assistants: Dustin Robison, Bryce Steiner Returning lettermen: 5 Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Returning lettermen: 6 Aiden Rudolph, QB/RB/DB, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Eric Returning starters: 3 Offense, 2 Defense Peterson, OL/DL, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Dillon Provost, OL/ Jerred Bieberle, RB/LB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Lawson Oeser, DL, 5-8, 190, Jr.; Mason Ferron, OL/DL, 5-9, 190, Jr.; RB/CB, 5-7, 145, Sr.; Tyler Holmes, OL, 5-10, 240, Douglas Koch, LB/OL, 5-10, 175, Jr. Brent Maycock Jr. Conor Nicholl

COTTONWOOD FALLS-CHASE COUNTY

A change in scenery didn’t do much to change Chase County’s fortunes last year. After going 1-8 in its final year as an 11-Man program, the Bulldogs posted an identical 1-8 mark last year in its first dip into the 8-Man ranks. The lone win was a 68-18 rout of one-win Valley Falls late in the season. Defensive shortcomings were Chase County’s biggest hindrance last year. The Bulldogs gave up at least 36 points in all eight losses and 46 or more seven times. Fourth-year coach Brody VanDegrift hopes having one year under the belt with the 8-Man game has his program more prepared for what it will face in 2019. The Bulldogs certainly have the experience to be an improved team with seven 9-2 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I starters returning each way. Southern Plains Iroquois Activities Association The spearhead of the defense is senior linebackCoach: Billy Nichols (4th year, 27-6) er Cael Budke, a four-year starter who had 119 Assistants: Gene Glenn, Charles Austin tackles last year. Four other multi-year starters also Offense: Carnival Defense: 4-Diamond return, including senior linemen Caleb Stout, Wyatt Returning lettermen: 9 Reyer and Tanner Koch who will give the Bulldogs Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense plenty of experience up front both ways. Chayde Snyder, QB/LB, 6-0, 178, Sr.; Gage Girk, Offense wasn’t an issue for Chase County a K/P/SE/DB, 5-10, 187, Sr.; Eli Jellison, RB/DE, year ago as the Bulldogs scored at least two 5-11, 200, Sr.; Jonny Robles, CB/WR, 6-0, 170, Jr.; touchdowns in all but one game and scored 24 or Owen Herd, OL/DL, 6-0, 210, So.; Aidan Prue, SE/ more six times. DB, 6-1, 178, Sr. Gallagher Martin The 1-2 punch of Budke and junior back Trint Rogers will be a handful for opposing defenses with both coming off nice seasons a year ago. Budke, a quarterback, ran for 1,166 yards and 16 touchdowns and also threw for 586 yards and six scores, while Rogers, a tailback, added 1,216 yards rushing with 18 touchdowns.

Chase County will field a large squad with 20 returning lettermen overall. The Bulldogs have the chance to get things off to a good start with the opener against Herington, a toss-up battle last year the Bulldogs lost 36-34. Canton-Galva will be a stern test in Week Two and the district will be tough with Burlingame established and Maranatha, Lebo and Madison all boasting veteran squads. 1-8 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man I Flint Hills League Coach: Brody VanDegrift (4th year, 8-19) Assistants: Derick Budke, Jarrod Barett, Brady Stout, Cade Witte, Alex Weiss Offense: Spread Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 20 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Cael Budke, QB/LB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Trint Rogers, RB/CB, 5-10, 130, Jr.; Blaise Holloway, WR/CB, 5-10, 135, Jr.; Caleb Stout, C/DE, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Owen Eidman, TE/CB, 6-2, 160, Sr.; Wyatt Reyer, OL/DL, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Lane Gilbreth, OL/LB, 6-0, 165, Jr.; Tanner Koch, TE/DE, 6-1, 170, Sr. BM

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GOESSEL

With three returning seniors and four returning juniors, Goessel will have leadership and experience, but head coach Garrett Hiebert knows sophomores and even a few freshmen will have to step up and contribute at the varsity level in 2019. The Bluebirds went 4-5 last year. After starting the season 3-2, Goessel lost its next three games before ending the season with a 46-42 win over Chase County. A 54-52 loss to Peabody-Burns on Oct. 12 was the difference between a losing season and winning season. With seven returning starters on both sides of the ball, Goessel is hoping to finish this season above .500. “Our senior and junior classes are not big, but many of them have two or three years of starting experience,” Hiebert said. “We will count on them to provide leadership and maturity from the beginning of the season.” On offense, Dylan Lindeman and Luke Wiens are both capable quarterbacks, but Wiens also has the versatility to play tight end if need be. Jacob Hagewood and Kale Funk split time at running back last year, while Funk also played tight end as well. Eddie Gaeddert and Luke Freeman are returning offensive linemen, while Nate Zogleman is another tight end the Bluebirds can utilize in the running and passing games. Defensively, Lindeman, Funk, and Zogleman patrol the secondary, Hagewood and Wiens start at linebacker, and Freeman and Gaeddert play on the defensive line. The Bluebirds will be undersized in a few areas, especially offensive and defensive lines. A good summer of weights could help with that obstacle. “We must have a great summer as a team in the weight room,” Hiebert said. “We need to get bigger, faster, and stronger if we want to reach our goals.” Overall, Hiebert has a sense of optimism heading into the season. “I am excited for us as a team and individuals to break through barriers and get better every day as we work towards our goals,” Hiebert said. 4-5 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man I Wheat State League Coach: Garrett Hiebert (8th year, 23-41) Assistants: N/A Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Dylan Lindeman, QB/DB, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Jacob Hagewood, RB/LB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Luke Freeman, OL/DL, 5-7, 145, Sr.; Luke Wiens, TE/QB/LB, 5-8, 165, Jr.; Kale Funk, TE/RB/DB, 5-8, 145, Jr.; Eddie Gaeddert, OL/DL, 6-2, 180, Jr.; Nate Zogleman, TE/ DB, 6-0, 140, Jr. Gallagher Martin

GREENSBURG-KIOWA COUNTY

Since a 10-1 season in 2013, the Mavericks are 4-5, 5-5, 2-7, 4-5 and 4-5. Tye Remy stepped aside and Stephen Hokanson has taken over as coach, the third coach in six seasons. Kiowa County opened 3-0 with wins against Minneola (52-6), Pratt-Skyline (26-12) and Pretty Prairie (54-0). Then, the Mavericks struggled with five straight losses, though three were very close. In Week 5, Kiowa County fell 42-34 to Spearville at home. The following week, KC lost at South Gray, 30-20. In Week 8, KC fell at Kinsley, 42-36. The Mavericks ended the season with a 62-8 home win versus St. John. Kiowa County averaged 34.4 points a game and allowed 29.3. This is another positive uptick for the Mavericks. In 2017, KC averaged 29.1 points a contest and permitted 33.3. In 2016, the Mavericks scored 21.3 and allowed 37.8. Kiowa County graduated quarterback Cale Thompson, who started for three seasons. Last year, he threw for 987 yards with 58 percent completion rate and a 14/5 TD/INT ratio. Overall, the Mavericks passed for 1,277 yards with a 57 completion rate and an 18/8 TD/INT ratio. All of the team’s rushing yards came from non-seniors in 2017. Last year, experience yielded another improvement to 175 yards a game and 5.2 yards per carry. Three years ago, KC averaged 147 rushing yards and 3.1 yards per carry. Two seasons ago, the Mavericks stood at 160 rushing at 4.9 yards per carry. Four players had between 224 and 545 rushing yards, though leading rusher A.J. Owens graduated. Cooper Zenger, as a junior, delivered 85 carries for 342 yards and four scores. Senior Gage McDonald tallied 66 carries for 333 yards and five scores. Zenger rushed for 522 yards and eight scores as a sophomore. Junior James Brack had 54 tackles with 8.5 TFLs, both team highs. Three of the top-four tacklers return. Hokanson served as the head coach at Bucklin from 2005-10

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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HERINGTON

After back-to-back 3-6 seasons, Herington is looking to repeat similar success it found in 2016 when the Railers went 7-2. Herington is entering its fourth year in 8-Man football. The Railers are 13-14 in that span with zero playoff appearances. Last season, the Railers finished at the bottom of a tough District 4 which features Canton-Galva and Solomon, who went a combined 21-4 last year. Herington went 0-5 against teams in its district with no game closer than 48 points. However, with five returning starters on both sides of the ball, Herington is hoping to compete with the likes of Goessel, Peabody-Burns, and perhaps Bennington, although Canton-Galva and Solomon should be tough once again this season. First-year head coach Justin Hurley knows improvement will come in many forms, not just wins and losses. “We want to improve our performance from last season,” Hurley said. “Winning games would be great, but we really want to focus on being better at fundamentals; especially our blocking and tackling. We want to become better teammates, making each other accountable forming a bond that makes teams great.” The Herington offense revolves around sophomore Easton Idleman. Idleman saw time at quarterback last season, throwing for 548 yards and seven touchdowns. However, look for Idleman to start at running back this season. Idleman rushed for 662 yards and scored 10 touchdowns for the Railers last season. At quarterback, junior Conner LaRosa will get the nod. LaRosa only attempted 14 passes last season, but did run the ball 30 times for 77 yards and three touchdowns. Senior tight end Kayland Alexander will likely be LaRosa’s favorite target after hauling in 18 catches for 386 yards, and five touchdowns, all of which led the team. Defensively, junior Matthew Anschutz and senior Brody Brown had 61 and 60 tackles respectively last season, which were second and third on the team. Hurley believes the biggest challenge for the season will be getting his players adjusted to a new style of coaching. “The biggest key to our success will be how quickly we buy in to the process and how they respond to the grind,” Hurley said. “So far the response has been great.”

4-5 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man I Southern Plains Iroquois Activities Association Coach: Stephen Hokanson (1st year) Assistants: Darris Servis Offense: Tight I Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: NA Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Cooper Zenger, RB/LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Gage McDonald, RB/LB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Brandon Boyles, 3-6 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man I E/DB, 5-10, 145, Sr.; Koby West, DE, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Wheat State League James Brack, RB/DB, 6-1, 160, Jr. Conor Nicholl Coach: Justin Hurley (1st season) Assistants: Kyle Barton, Jacob Kehrens Offense: Pistol Flex Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Kayland Alexander, TE/DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Brody Brown, FB/LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Holden Coffman, RB/ LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Conner LaRosa, QB, 5-9, 155, last year as a freshman, rushing for 146 yards and Sr.; Kevin Gehrke, OL/DL, 5-10, 195, Jr.; Matthew two TDs. In West Elk’s I-formation, run-first offense, linemen Anschutz, ATH, 5-8, 160, Jr.; Easton Idleman, RB/LB, 5-10, 165, So. Conor Nicholl Caleb Walker and Dylan Treloggen, and tight end Trenten Tindle are experienced blockers. Walker and Treloggen will also start on the defensive line, while Tindle starts at defensive back. Rocky Hankes is another two-way starter for the Patriots at receiver and defensive back. Good Luck to After a dissapointing season last year, Haag and company are ready to rebound. the Herington “Our younger athletes will have to step up and be able to play on Friday nights,” Haag said. “We are Railers in the looking forward to the challenges ahead of us.”

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Hill City enjoyed its second consecutive 5-4 season and could be poised to make a move toward the top of 8-Man, Division I this season. Coach Travis Desbien, a former standout at Palco on the Roosters’ state runner-up team in 2005, is in his sixth season at the school and third as head coach. Desbien helped the Ringnecks to significant statistical improvement last season compared to 2017. Two years ago, Hill City averaged 31.8 points per game and permitted 35.3. Last year, the Ringnecks scored 46.7 points per contest and allowed 32.9. The Ringnecks finished No. 15 in all of 8-Man football in scoring offense and were the No. 7 most improved offense at plus-14.9 points per game. Hill City graduated quarterback Conner Born, one of the state’s biggest surprises. He didn’t play as a junior and passed for 843 yards, rushed for 1,316 and accounted for 36 scores as a senior. However, senior Dalen Journigan is back after another electrifying year with 68 carries for 668 yards and 11 scores, along with eight catches for 104 yards and a TD, and was also the team’s main kick returner. Three of the top-five tacklers are back, paced by leader Brody McDowell (110 stops). Journigan and junior Jayce Hamel each had 60. Hamel led with 13 TFLs. Desbien has set goals to win District 7 and capture the first playoff win in a decade. Hill City has won a playoff game just once in school history, an 11-2 season and state runner-up showing to Madison in Eight-Man, Division I in 2010. “The weight room is always a key to our season success, but outside that, we need to develop leaders,” Desbien said. “We have been a young team the previous two years and now our ‘young’ guys are upperclassman and need to become leaders to take our team to the next level.” 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I Mid-Continent League Coach: Travis Desbien (3rd year, 10-8) Assistants: Vince Walker Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Dalen Journigan, RB/DB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Jacob Larson, OL, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Jayce Hamel, QB/LB, 5-11, 190, Jr.; Brody McDowell, WR/LB, 6-2, 155, Jr.; William Penrod, TE/DE, 6-0, 225, Jr.; Ayden Nickelson, LB, 5-9, 180, So.; Cody Presley, OL, 5-9, 190, So. Conor Nicholl

HOWARD-WEST ELK

The West Elk Patriots spent the last three seasons as one of the premier 8-Man football teams in Kansas, going 29-4 from 2015-2017. In fact, before last season, the Patriots hadn’t finished worse than 6-3 since going 4-5 in 2012. But the 2018 season was rough to say the least. Ravaged by injuries and the loss of a talented senior class, West Elk finished 1-8, including an eight-game losing streak the Patriots carry into 2019. Entering his 19th-year as head coach, Chris Haag has seen both ends of the success spectrum at West Elk. While the Patriots may not be in store for a double-digit win season this year, Haag is confident his team can get back to a competitive level in 2019. “The experience that a lot of our younger players received last season will hopefully gain them some confidence going into this season,” Haag said. “We are gonna take it one day at a time and work hard to have a winning season and a chance to compete for a district championship.” The Patriots return 75 percent of their offense and defense from last year, but replacing quarterback Tim Whetstone will be a priority. West Elk is in good shape otherwise, with senior Nic Moreno, who rushed for 669 yards and five touchdowns on only 84 carries, starting at running back. Koleton Branch also saw time at running back

1-8 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man-I South Central Border League Coach: Chris Haag (19th season) Assistant: Kevin Weber Offense: I-formation Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Nic Moreno, RB/LB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Caleb Walker, OL/ DE, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Dylan Treloggen, OL/DL, 5-10, 225, Sr.; Koleton Branch, RB/LB, 5-11, 180, So.; Trenten Tindle, TE/DB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Rocky Hankes, WR/DB, 6-1, 165, Jr. Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

HOXIE

Hoxie won the 2017 8-Man, Division I state championship behind the No. 2 scoring defense in 8-Man football. The Indians returned its standout line of Jarrod Dible, Colton Heskett and Taye Washington, along with quarterback Jared Kennedy, for 2018. Hoxie was ranked No. 1 by some preseason polls and finished fourth. The Indians lost to rival St. Francis, 64-30, in district play, and then fell to eventual state champion Central Plains, 54-6, in the state quarterfinals. Hoxie has lost nine in a row to St. Francis and had its regular season winning streak of 12 games snapped in the SF loss. Hoxie played the No. 6 strength of schedule in the class, according to Prep Power Index. Hoxie earned several quality wins including against Leoti-Wichita County (36-20), Hill City (46-36) and Clifton-Clyde (22-20). The latter two came in the playoffs; all three teams finished with winning records, and C-C was 9-1. Hoxie has nine straight winning seasons under coach Lance Baar. Hoxie graduated Dible and Heskett, both all-state players. Senior Wylie Weems returns after earning Kpreps all-purpose all-state honors with 1,211 rushing yards, 16 scores, 111 tackles, seven tackles for loss and four interceptions. Hoxie scored 42.7 points per contest, but had an unusual uptick in scoring defense to 24.2 points allowed per game, the worst scoring defense in Baar’s tenure since the school switched to 8-Man football prior to 2010. Baar’s teams have historically been very strong defensively, including 14.5, 19.3 and nine points allowed per game in the previous three years. However, the Indians’ offense last year only dropped slightly from the state championship team’s level of 44.8 points a contest. Receivers Dylan Weimer and Ben Aumiller return after they combined for 21 catches for 324 yards and five touchdowns. Hoxie committed 22 turnovers and was plus-5 in turnover margin after plus-18 the year prior. Weimer was second on the team with 89 tackles. Junior lineman Harlan Obioha will be one of the biggest players in Kansas this year. He had three tackles in a reserve role in 2018 and is listed at 6-foot-8, 305. Hoxie has another big roster with 29 players, and six seniors. “Be competitive every week,” Baar said of team goals. “How quickly we catch on. We will have little experience going into the season so depending on how quickly we can catch on and understand schemes and technique and what it takes to win varsity games as well as the speed of the varsity game will be a huge key to our success.” 9-2 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I Northwest Kansas League Coach: Lance Baar (10th year, 68-31) Assistants: J.R. Kaiser, Chase Kennedy Offense: I Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 5 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense Dylan Weimer, RB/DB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Wylie Weems, RB/LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Ben Aumiller, TE/DB, 5-11, 160, Sr. Conor Nicholl

JETMORE-HODGEMAN COUNTY

Two years ago, Hodgeman County finished 8-Man, Division II runner-up, the second time in five years HC lost in a state championship game. Last year, the Longhorns opened the season fourth in the preseason Division I rankings. HC finished third in the rankings after a 30-20 loss to St. Francis in the state quarterfinals. The Longhorns played the No. 4-hardest schedule in Division I, according to Prep Power Index. Hodgeman County opened with road wins against Dighton (38-12) and Medicine Lodge (36-24) and defeated rival Spearville twice, 54-6, in the regular season and 76-48 in the playoffs. All three teams finished with winning records, and Dighton was 9-3. Running back Eli Salmans is one of the state’s top players with back-to-back 1,400-yard plus seasons, including 1,829 rushing, 24 touchdowns and 104 tackles, good for all-state honors by multiple media outlets. His brother, Isaac, returns for his second year as the starting quarterback after he passed for 1,237 yards and a 12/3 TD/INT ratio. He also rushed for 916 yards and 25 scores. HC was No. 11 in 8-Man in scoring defense last season allowing an average of 19.6 points per game. At 44.8 points scored a game the Longhorns were just outside the top-15 in 8-Man scoring offense. HC returns its top-three tacklers and four of its top five with Eli (104), Isaac (90), junior Conner Ruff (90) and senior Ethan Burns (72). HC should again be a state favorite this fall. “We just want to get better every week,” coach Matt Housman said. “We need to be able to spread the ball around better this season. Our skill guys were young and inexperienced last season but now have a season under their belt. We need to rush the passer better this season and not lose our containment. Taking care of the football and be very fundamentally sound.” 9-2 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I Southern Plains Iroquois Activities Association Coach: Matt Housman (10th year, 74-22; 11th overall, 80-25) Assistants: Oliver Salmans Offense: I Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 17 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Eli Salmans, RB/LB, 6-0, 205, Sr.; Jasper Lackey, S, 5-11, 174, Sr.; Isaac Salmans, QB/DE, 6-3, 215, Jr.; Efren Chavez, OG/LB, 6-1, 208, Jr.; Conner Ruff, OE/LB, 6-0, 196, Jr.; Ethan Burns, OE/DE, 6-3, 183, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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LEOTI-WICHITA COUNTY

Leoti enjoyed one of the biggest turnarounds in Kansas last season with first-year coach Brant Douglas. A graduate of Cheyenne (Wyo.) Central and former player at University of Nebraska-Kearney, Douglas learned and watched from the Lopers. He coached three years, one in Houston and two in Sidney, Neb. His wife, Haylie, is from Tribune, Kan. She worked for Cabela’s in Nebraska, but once Bass Pro Shops bought out Cabela’s, Haylie and Brant moved back to Kansas. Brant took the head football coaching position at Leoti, 20 miles from Tribune. Douglas changed the offense to a Spread look. The Indians, in their third year of 8-Man football, opened 2-0 for the first time since at least 2004. Leoti eventually finished 6-3 with only losses to St. Francis, Hoxie and Victoria, squads that combined for just six total losses on the season. The Indians averaged 44.2 points per contest, and allowed 17.6 a game. The Indians had the No. 7 scoring defense in all of 8-Man football. The three-win improvement tied for ninth-best in 8-Man. Overall, the Indians finished fifth in 8-Man offensive improvement from 2017 at plus-24.4, and first in 8-Man defensive improvement at plus-25.3. The Indians could be primed for another jump this year. Leoti graduated Kpreps all-state lineman Jesse Hermosillo, but returns quarterback Kayde Rietzke, running back Jesse Gardner and junior lineman AC

Hermosillo. Rietzke passed for 965 yards with a 21/7 TD/INT ratio and rushed for 735 yards, while Gardner rushed for 656 with 14 scores. Douglas said the goals are host a first-round playoff game, go deeper in the playoffs, continue developing the program and depth on the team, develop the characteristics of a team that can close out games, and “develop more tempo with our no-huddle offense.” 6-3 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I Hi-Plains League Coach: Brant Douglas (2nd year, 6-3) Assistants: Haydon Parks, Bryce Nickelson Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 15 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Kayde Rietzke, QB, 5-8, 150, Jr.; Teagan Bishop, WR/S, 5-9, 160, Jr.; Jesse Gardner, HB/LB, 5-7, 170, Jr.; AC Hermosillo, OL/DL, 5-8, 240, Jr.; Sheldon Whalen, WR/S, 5-11, 150, Jr.; Aron Castillo, LB, 5-10, 180, Sr. Conor Nicholl

KINSLEY

After a season-opening 74-26 home loss against Macksville, Kinsley won at St. John, 36-24, in Week 2. The victory ended a 22-game losing streak for the Coyotes. Kinsley led 24-12 at halftime before each team added a pair of scores in the second half. Before then, Kinsley’s last victory came on Oct. 9, 2015 when the Coyotes defeated Macksville, 60-32. Kinsley then took five big losses, all by at least 35 points, before a 42-36 home win versus Kiowa County. In Week 9, Kinsley ended with a 58-14 loss to Pratt Skyline. Last year, Kinsley alum Kyle Burkhart served as head coach, and Corey Dunlap was the assistant. The coaches switched roles this year. Kinsley scored 17.7 points per contest but allowed 52.9 last season. The year before, Kinsley delivered 11.3 points per game and allowed 54.6. Kinsley went 2-7 in 2015 before back-to-back 0-9 seasons. Kinsley finished 5-4 in 2012, the only winning season since 2004. “As always, we want to compete at a high level and give ourselves a chance to make it out of our district and into the postseason,” Dunlap said. “Buy into roles, team defense, physical mindset, Upperclassmen have to step up and be leaders after graduating over half of our team from 2018.”

LEBO

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Brian Hadley’s first year at Lebo High School featured a three-game winning streak and a three-game losing streak. The Wolves finished the regular season 4-4 and fell to Canton-Galva in the first round of the 8-Man I playoffs, 54-6. In year two, Hadley’s Wolves may fly under the radar. The Wolves return all eight starters on offense and seven on defense. With nearly the entire team back from last season, Lebo is hoping to finish above .500 and make some noise in the playoffs. “Expectations are high to improve on our 4-5 record from last year,” Hadley said. “Players have been buying in and working hard in the weight room in order to make that happen.” The Wolves have one of the best receivers in 8-Man in senior Avery Peek. Last season, Peek caught 58 passes for 711 yards, and 12 touchdowns. Throwing him the ball is junior Devan McEwen, who threw for 1,271 yards and 18 touchdowns against nine interceptions. Junior tight end Jerome Ferguson, who caught 24 passes for 345 yards and five touchdowns, is another top target for McEwen. Running the ball will be a combination of junior 2-7 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man I Andrew Bailey and sophomore Kyle Reese, who Central Prairie League combined for 10 touchdowns last season. Coach: Corey Dunlap (1st year) Senior Kaden Ott graded out as the team’s top Assistants: Kyle Burkhart offensive linemen last season while also leading Offense: I Defense: 3-2 the defense with 3.5 sacks. Senior linebacker Returning lettermen: 8 Kaden Schroeder led the team with four fumbles Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense recoveries and had 24 tackles. Cole Gleason, WR/DB. 5-11, 145, Jr.; Isaac Hadley also believes four freshmen and sophBowman, WR/DB, 5-10, 145, Jr.; Alan Newsom, omore Jonas Konrade could make an impact on OL/DL, 6-0, 190, Jr. the team. Hadley lists experience and progress in Conor Nicholl the weight room as team strengths, while lack of depth and numbers, specifically in the trenches, as team weaknesses. “We are excited to get everyone back and the guys are excited to show how hard they have been working,” Hadley said.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

LINCOLN

Through two games last season the Leopards were undefeated and optimistic entering a Week 3 rivalry match-up with Sylvan-Lucas at home in front of a packed house celebrating stadium renovations to Mettner Field. But a 46-0 defeat later at the hands of the Mustangs left the Leopards with a number of questions entering the middle of the season. Over the next five games the Leopards would score just 30 total points, with a high of 18 against Washington County in Week 5, while allowing at least 46 points to every opponent during a challenging losing streak. Lincoln would end the season on a high note of sorts as a lengthy road trip to Atwood would see the Leopards generate 44 points in a heartbreaking 60-44 loss to Rawlins County. Second year Leopard head coach Dustin Patee hopes that final game can serve as motivation heading into 2019, and notes an expanded roster is a reality. “We should be getting several kids out this year that either didn’t play last year or haven’t played since junior high,” Patee said. “This is very exciting that kids are already wanting to be a part of the football program again.” The good news is that roster will include nearly every starter from a year ago. The bad news is, someone will have to replace 8-Man All-Star Drew Biggs, the Leopards leading rusher, passer and top defender a year ago. Patee believes several playmakers could emerge. Junior running back/linebacker Tyler Good has the potential to be one of the top players in the classification. The 6-1, 180 pounder rushed for 316 yards and four touchdowns last season and tallied 101 tackles on defense. Senior receiver/defensive back Zach Obermueller caught 32 passes for 369 yards and three TDs while notching 66 tackles and an interception from the defensive backfield last year. Tall junior tight end/defensive end Landon O’Hare also caught 32 passes with 329 yards and three scores and posted 52 tackles - 12 for loss - from his defensive end spot. That trio of playmakers should merge with a group of seven other experienced lettermen to give the Leopards the opportunity for improvement this season. Patee says building on experience within the system is key. “We will once again focus on building a quality program from within, but in the games we will stress scoring offense, scoring defense, and the turnover margin.” 2-7 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man I Northern Plains League Coach: Dustin Patee (2nd year; 6th overall, 14-30) Assistants: Heath Brandyberry, Blake Lee, Dayton Walter Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Tyler Good, RB/LB, 6-1, 173, Jr.; Zach Obermueller, WR/DB, 5-11, 168, Sr.; Landon O’Hare, TE/DE, 6-4, 175, Jr.; Kenton Myers, OL/DL, 6-1, 237, Sr.; Jerry Marinhagen, OL/LB, 5-8, 212, Sr.; Dillon Baxter, WR/ DB, 5-6, 131, Sr. John Baetz

LITTLE RIVER

Little River is replacing a lot in 2019, including a head coach and five starters on both sides of the ball from a 7-2 squad last year. But with QB and d-back Graham Stepehens leading the way, Little River should continue to field a competitive team. New head coach Kevin Ayers comes to Little River with quite the résumé. Ayers has amassed a 158-39 overall record as a coach which includes three state championships. Ayers guided Jetmore to state championships in 2001 and 2003 and Wallace County-Sharon Springs to a title in 2007. It’s safe to say Little River hit a home run when they hired Ayers, and there will be some continuity as Chad Lafferty steps into an assistant coach role after serving two years as the head man. Little River returns talent, but younger players will need to step up to make the playoffs in 8-Man Division I. “Players have had a great summer which will help with learning a new system, and with only three returning starters we will be young and inexperienced in many spots,” Ayers said. “Young players will have to grow up fast.” Stephens has made an impact on the football field, basketball court and baseball diamond since he entered high school. A junior, Stephens is coming off a season in which he threw for 520 yards and ran for 753 yards. On defense, Stephens recorded a team-high 95 tackles and had two interceptions. He is also a talented kicker and often sends kickoffs through the end zone for touchbacks. Look for senior Braydon Sears to have a big impact on both sides of the ball as well. Sears ran for 291 yards last year at fullback while recording 87 tackles at linebacker. Senior Zane Kratzer had 49 tackles, including seven for loss, last year on the defensive line. Kratzer will also play tight end for Little River. Ayers says his young team will look to get better week by week. “Building culture and chemistry is priority No. 1,” Ayers said. “The kids are hungry and we hope to put an improved team on the field each and every week.” 7-2 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I Wheat State League Coach: Kevin Ayers (1st year; 20th overall, 158-39) Assistants: Chad Lafferty, Scott Ellwood, Tyson Konen Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 5 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 3 Defense Zane Kratzer, TE/DE, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Braydon Sears, FB/LB, 6-0, 225, Sr.; Graham Stephens, QB/DB, 5-9, 190, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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MACKSVILLE

The dynamic duo of Kody Mead to Karson Waters was nearly unstoppable for the Macksville High School football team last year. Of Mead’s 25 touchdown passes, 17 went to Waters; 57 percent of Mead’s passing yards went to Waters as well. With both of them gone from last year’s 4-5 team, Macksville has star power to replace in order to be competitive in 2019. But the Mustangs return six starters on offense and defense, and head coach Chet Skinner likes what he has returning. “We have a solid core group of guys that have been starters for multiple years now,” Skinner said. “Our experience up front will look to lead the charge.” Macksville featured a prolific passing attack last season, but the Mustangs may be more reliant on the run game this year. The Mustangs return senior offensive linemen Harley Blaske and Zane Johnson, and the running back duo of senior Skyler Evans and junior Michael Seward. Evans led the team in rushing yards last year with 518 to go along with three touchdowns; he was also second on the team with 19 receptions, and fourth on the team with 58 tackles as a linebacker. Tyler Bissell was second on the team with four receiving touchdowns last year, but he will be making the transition to quarterback while also playing defensive back. With a new starting quarterback and returning starters at offensive line and running back, Skinner says the Mustangs will be more balanced this year. “Our new guys will look to stretch the field and give defenses trouble at defending both the run and pass,” Skinner said. Blaske and Johnson are the team’s two best defensive players from their linebacker positions; Blaske recorded 78 tackles and three interceptions while Johnson had 79 total tackles. Skinner believes Macksville will be as good as their returning starters allow them to be. “The Mustangs keys to success in 2019 will rely on the returning players,” Skinner said. “A strong summer weights and conditioning offseason will be vital for the Mustangs to compete at a high level.”

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MADISON/HAMILTON

Madison has a history of success and lofty expectations on the football field. In 2016, Alex McMillian was hired to bring Madison back to glory. After posting a 3-6 record in his first year, McMillian saw improvement the next year after the Bulldogs finished 5-4. Last year, McMillian and Madison broke through. After defeating Peabody-Burns in the first round of the playoffs to improve to 9-0, Madison dropped a heartbreaker to eventual state runner-up Solomon, 30-26, in the second round. Included among the 16 returning lettermen are a pair of 8-Man’s top players in Nasun Wasson and Hunter Engle. The duo will be counted on for leadership, which McMillian says is key for 2019. “Leadership will determine our success this year,” McMillian said. “Some of this year’s emphasis will be getting better at taking care of the football and two-point conversion percentage.” The Madison offense averaged over 46 points a game last season thanks to its potent rushing attack. Wasson led the way with 632 yards and 18 touchdowns on the ground while adding 107 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Engle complemented Wasson well, rushing for 332 yards and five touchdowns. Both Wasson and Engle are two-way stars for Madison. As a defensive back, Wasson had 40.5 tackles to go along with five interceptions, four forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. Engle earned honorable mention all-state honors as a defensive end from the Topeka Capital-Journal and Wichita Eagle. Madison will not be a two-player team, though, as five starters return on both sides of the ball. But the Bulldogs do have to replace a pair of 8-Man All-Stars from last season in offensive lineman Davin Stutesman and versatile athlete Austin Watts. Now that McMillian has Madison back to state contention, he wants to keep the Bulldogs there. “Our goals for this season are to continue to improve and get better each and every day,” McMillian said. “[We want to] win league, win district, and make a run in the playoffs.”

9-1 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I Lyon County League 4-5 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I Coach: Alex McMillian (4th year, 17-11) Central Prairie League Assistants: Brett Dannels, Dustin Stutesman Coach: Chet Skinner (6th year, 16-30) Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Assistant: Kyle Bright Returning lettermen: 16 Offense: 6 Defense: 6 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Returning lettermen: 13 Nasun Wasson, RB/DB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Colton Fife, Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense RB/DB, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Sebastian Bolinger, OL/DL, Harley Blaske, OL/LB, 6-0, 205, Sr.; Zane Johnson, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Ryan Wolgram, QB/DB, 5-8, 155, Jr.; OL/LB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Tyler Bissell, QB/DB, 5-10, Hunter Engle, FB/DE, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Isaac Miser, 175, Sr.; Skyler Evans, RB/LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; OL/LB, 5-8, 190, Jr.; Joseph Stubbs, OL/DL, 6-0, Michael Seward, RB/DB, 5-8, 165, 165, Jr. 185, Jr.; Chase Harrison, TE/DE, 6-1, 200, Jr. Gallagher Martin Gallagher Martin

SHAWNEE-MARANATHA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Entering his seventh year as head coach at Maranatha Academy, Bryan Burdette has 13 wins with the program. He picked up six of those 13 wins last year during a 6-3 season in Burdette’s most successful season with the program. Maranatha Christian finished third in 8-Man Division I, District 3 behind Madison (9-1 overall) and Burlingame (8-2). The Eagles were competitive in both of their district losses, losing to Madison by 10 and Burlingame by 12. After starting the season 3-0 and ending the regular season on a two-game winning streak, the Eagles drew an unfavorable matchup in the first round of the playoffs against eventual state runner-up Solomon, losing 52-6. The Eagles return five starters on offense and six on defense and could be in store for an even bigger season this year if the Eagles can remain healthy. “We will not have huge numbers, but we have an opportunity to do some special things this year,” Burdette said. “Health will be our biggest key.” The Maranatha offense averaged nearly 47 points a game last season and eclipsed the 54-point mark five times. The Eagles return standout quarterback Nate Burdette, who threw 33 touchdowns to only eight interceptions last season, with 1,478 yards, and completed 57 percent of his passes. Burdette also led the team in rushing last season with 589 yards on the ground and 11 touchdowns.

It is no question that 6-2, 175 pound senior receiver Brock West is Burdette’s favorite target. West caught 60 passes, for 1,204 yards, and 29 touchdowns last season. The Eagles return two senior linemen on offense, and return two linemen on defense. Senior Jack Porter will be a leader on the defensive line, and while Jayden Oquendo is just a sophomore, but at 6-3, 230 he has the size of a senior. The defense is replacing Zach Pelham, who led the team with 101 tackles; West at defensive back was second last season with 73. “We just want to do the best we can each time we step on the field,” Burdette said. “Nothing more, nothing less.” 6-3 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man Division I Crossroads Conference Coach: Bryan Burdette (7th year, 13-34) Assistants: Alfredo Bahena, Brian Chiles, Myron Thomas Offense: Spread Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Nate Burdette, QB/S, 5-9, 190, Sr.; Brock West, WR/DB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Logan Gourley, OL/LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Nicholas Higgenbotham, OL, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Gabe Wiley, RB, 5-6, 150, Sr.; Austin Chiles, LB, 5-10, 140, Jr.; Jack Porter, DL, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Jayden Oquendo, DL, 6-3, 230, So. Gallagher Martin

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

MEDICINE LODGE

MONTEZUMA-SOUTH GRAY

South Gray is 2-7, 7-2 and 3-6 the last three seasons. The Rebels averaged 41.8 points a game and allowed 22.7 a contest in 2017. Last year, South Gray scored 24.6 points a game and permitted 38.3. The Rebels opened with a 58-12 road win versus Ingalls, and then lost four in a row versus Satanta (18-14), Medicine Lodge (53-22), Ness City (54-18) and Hodgeman County (56-6) before two home wins versus Kiowa County, 30-20, and Kinsley, 51-14. In the last two games, the Rebels lost at Spearville, 68-22, and at Central Plains, 50-0. South Gray faced the ninth strongest schedule in the 48-team 8-Man, Division I ranks, according to Prep Power Index. In 2017, it was the No. 46 SOS out of 50 teams. Austin Jantz graduated after he started multiple years at quarterback. He completed 73 of 139 passes for 846 yards with a 13/6 TD/INT ratio. Jantz also led the team by a big margin in rushing with 167 carries for 741 yards and nine scores. However, 74 percent of the receptions are back, including 19 catches for 372 yards and six scores from Aaron Skidmore. Jantz also led the defense with 83 tackles and three of the top-four tacklers graduated. Brady Deges enjoyed a strong freshman year with 55 tackles and a team-high three interceptions. The Rebels are still relatively young with fullback/ tight end/defensive end Adam Thiessen and offensive linemen Juan Vasquez the only senior starters returning from last year’s squad. Thiessen caught nine passes for 97 yards and one touchdown last season and tallied 31 total tackles on defense. “Our team goal was to work harder in the offseason,” coach Jesse Hodgson said. “The guys made a commitment to be in the weight room and to get stronger. Several guys have made some big strength gains and are excited to get things going this fall. We will need to fill several gaps from our graduating seniors, but we had a lot of kids playing meaningful minutes last year, as well as a successful JV season. We should be solid moving forward.”

The drop to 8-Man football resulted in a winning season for Medicine Lodge in 2018. Although the Indians missed the playoffs in a loaded district, Medicine Lodge finished 5-4 on the year, the first winning record for coach Josh Ybarra in his six seasons, and the first winning record for the program since going 5-4 in 2009. If the Indians are to keep up the momentum, they will have to fill pressing holes on both sides of the ball. Medicine Lodge returns five starters on offense and defense, but offensively the Indians are replacing their leading passer, rusher, and receiver. Last season, quarterback Garrett Burden completed 155 passes and threw 35 touchdowns. Sixty-seven of those passes went to Dakota Bayliff as did 19 of his TDs. Bayliff also led the team in rushing with 174 yards and four touchdowns. Replacing the dynamic duo of Burden and Bayliff will not be easy, but Ybarra still likes what he has left on his roster. “We expect to build on our success from last year,” Ybarra said. “We will have to figure out how to replace Garrett Burden and Dakota Bayliff. I feel we have some kids like Cason Liebst and Josh Bowman that are ready to step up and fill the void.” Liebst will step in at running back, but he is dominant at linebacker; Liebst led the team with 141 tackles last year and also had four sacks. Bowman was a solid No. 2 target at receiver last year, catching 53 passes for 550 yards and eight touchdowns. He also had 68 tackles and six sacks at linebacker. Expect Bowman to make the transition from receiver to quarterback this year. Linemen Tyce Lonker and Grant Ricke combined for 160 tackles and 8.5 sacks on defense, and will also anchor the offensive line. Tallyn Taylor is the only returning defensive back, coming off a sophomore season in which he recorded 64 tackles. Medicine Lodge hasn’t had much reason for optimism in recent years, but the tide could be turning for the program in 8-Man football. “We return a solid core of starters who have had some success over the last couple years and are hungry for more,” Ybarra said. 5-4 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 8-Man I Independent Coach: Josh Ybarra (7th year, 17-38) Assistants: Shane Hahn, Jake Bjostad, Nathan Honas Offense: Spread Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Kirk Fisher, TE, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Cason Liebst, RB/ LB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Tyce Lonker, OL/DL, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Grant Ricke, OL/DL, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Josh Bowman, QB/LB, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Tallyn Taylor, DB, 5-7, 150, Jr. Gallagher Martin

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3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 8-Man I Southern Plains Iroquois Activities Association Coach: Jesse Hodgson (4th year, 12-15) Assistants: Ty Clark Offense: Pistol Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Kimble Martin, WR/CB, 5-9, 150, Jr.; Brady Deges, CB, 5-8, 135, So.; Ethan Salmans, CB/LB, 6-0, 150, Jr.; Adam Thiessen, FB/DE, 5-9, 200, Sr.; Aaron Skidmore, TB/LB, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Ethan Reed, OL, 6-2, 170, Jr.; Juan Vasquez, OL, 5-11, 180, Sr. Conor Nicholl

MOUNDRIDGE

Moundridge dropped to 8-Man football in 2018 but did not enjoy much success. The Wildcats finished the year 3-6 against an incredibly tough schedule that featured Solomon, Central Plains, Little River and Hodgeman County, and ended the season on a three-game losing streak. In the second year of a two-year district cycle the schedule does not get any easier, but with five returning starters on both sides of the ball, Moundridge is hoping to be improved in 2019. A big key to success will be the maturation of quarterback Corbin Unruh along with filling holes left behind by last year’s graduating class. Unruh was 20 of 57 passing for 206 yards with a 2/5 TD/ INT ratio. “We have some key pieces that will need to be replaced and having young players step up in these spots will be a key to our success,” fourth-year head coach Jeremiah Meeks said. “Finding a linebacker and seeing continued growth from our quarterback will also be keys to reaching our goals as a team.” Meeks said his offense will be led by his returning linemen. Braden Schmidt and Dalton Vogts return at offensive line, while 6-4 tight end Brady Helms is a big target in the passing game and a solid blocker in the running game. Helms caught 16 passes for 269 yards and six touchdowns last year. Daniel Kaufman will also assist in the running game at fullback, getting his share of the carries, and lead blocking for running back Collin Kohl. “We have a lot of experience up front coming back and we will look to them to set the tempo and key our running game,” Meeks said. On defense, the Wildcats return three defensive linemen in Helms, Kaufman, and Aaron Green. The trio combined for 14.5 tackles for loss last season. The secondary should be solid with Unruh (30.5 tkls, 4 INTs) and Kohl (23 tkls), but Meeks is right when he says the team needs to develop a few linebackers. The Wildcats have the pieces to be improved in 2019. Another year playing 8-Man football should help the developmental process as well. “Our goals for the season are to continue to develop as a team, reach the playoffs again, and get better every week,” Meeks said. 3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 8-Man I Heart of America League Coach: Jeremiah Meeks (4th year, 8-20) Assistants: Bret Lange, Courtney Moddelmog Offense: I-formation Defense: 5-1 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 5 Offense 5 Defense Brady Helms, TE/DE, 6-4, 215, Sr.; Corbin Unruh, QB/S, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Collin Kohl, RB/S, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Braden Schmidt, G, 5-10, 200, Jr.; Aaron Green, DL, 5-8, 170, Sr.; Daniel Kaufman, FB/DL, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Dalton Vogts, G, 6-4, 245, Jr. Gallagher Martin

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Page 129

The Eagles finished 7-3, 5-5 and 7-3 the last three years under coach Marc Cowles and have had several big comebacks, including a big 80-50 road victory versus Satanta in Week 7 of 2017 and a 28-26 home win versus Hodgeman County in Week 8 of last year, where Ness City rallied from 20 points down. The Longhorns scored on the game’s first three drives for a 20-0 lead. Quarterback John Pfannenstiel threw two touchdown passes and rushed for a score as Ness City took a 22-20 lead. HC bumped the advantage to 26-22 before Pfannenstiel threw a 34-yard TD pass for a 28-26 lead. HC drove to the Eagles’ five-yard line, but NC stopped the Longhorns on 4th-and-1 to effectively seal the game. The Longhorns were No. 2 in the rankings before the game. Pfannenstiel was a standout quarterback, and Andres Rios was a Kpreps all-state defensive lineman with 73 tackles, 19 for loss and 14 sacks. Ness City lost 30-14 to Central Plains in Week 1, and then 50-0 again in the playoffs; CP went 13-0 and won the state title. NC scored 36.6 points per game and permitted 20.2. In 2017, the Eagles scored 36.7 and allowed 33.6. The Eagles finished No. 13 in 8-Man scoring defense last year and had its best defense since a 9-3 team and 19.3 points allowed per game in 2014. Pfannenstiel, Rios and fellow graduate Landon Reinhardt (TE/DE) leave three huge holes on the squad. The trio also led the Eagles to the 2A state basketball championship in March. “To be successful this season we need some playmakers to step forward, creating some efficiency and consistency on offense,” Cowles said. “We need to be able to run the ball so that we can move the chains and control the clock. We also need seniors to step forward and become leaders.” Hector Rodriguez was second team all-league at RB last year. Easton Seib was a second team all-league wide receiver. Seib should be the featured receiver this year and has also started at DB since he was a sophomore. Senior Alex Rodriguez earned second team allleague on the offensive line and also started at nose guard in 2018. Senior linebacker Nate Gabel was all-league at free safety as a sophomore and missed the first five games recovering from a knee injury last year. Junior Matthew Delaney started at cornerback as a freshman, played linebacker last year and will play defensive end this fall. Delaney was having a solid year in 2018 before a Week 6 injury. 7-3 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I Central Prairie League Coach: Marc Cowles (5th year, 17-12; 18th overall, 85-75) Assistants: Shawn Starr, Brandt Rogers Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense, 6 Defense Edwin Rodriguez, RB/DB, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Hector Rodriguez, RB/DB, 5-7, 150, Sr.; Matthew Delaney, OL/DL, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Alex Rodriguez, OL/DL, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Ethan Schlegel, C, 5-10, 220, Jr.; Nate Gabel, LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Easton Seib, WR/DB, 5-11, 165, Sr. Conor Nicholl

OBERLIN-DECATUR COMMUNITY

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Oberlin posted a 4-5 record and 3-3 in the 2718 West Oklahoma 501 E. TEXCOCO Ave. | Toll STREET Free: |800-356-3460 (620) 322-5010| 620-356-3460 Northwest Kansas League in one of the state’s most challenging 8-Man districts. The Red Devils enjoyed a two-win improvement from a 2-6 record in 2017 GoodLuck LuckTigers! Rebels! Good and a 2-6 mark in ‘16. Oberlin went 3-6 in ’15 after an 8-2 record and district title in ’14. The Red Devils went W-L-W-L-W-L for the first six weeks. Oberlin finished fifth in District 8 that featured St. Francis and Hoxie, teams that finished in the topfour in the final Kpreps poll, and 6-3 Wichita County. Overall, the district went 21-8 in non-district contests. Oberlin scored 19.6 points per contest and permitted 31.1, for a defensive per game improvement of 12.4 points per contest from ‘17, just outside of the top-16 most improved defenses in 8-Man. Oberlin opened with a 46-0 road victory against Quinter, and then lost at home to Dighton by the same score. The Red Devils followed with a 24-12 road victory against Wallace Co., and fell 50-0 versus St. Francis before a 30-0 road win against Atwood. The Red Devils then lost three straight, a pair of home games to Trego (38-22) and Hoxie (52-6) before a 62-12 road loss versus Wichita Co. Oberlin finished with a 36-20 win against Washington Co. Gavon Uehlin served as the primary quarterback as a sophomore and completed 35 of 90 passes for 526 yards with a 4/6 TD/INT ratio. All but 16 of the team’s 1,289 rushing yards came from non-seniors. Oberlin averaged 3.9 yards per carry. Senior Dawson Kempt delivered 113 carries for 454 yards and five

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touchdowns. Oberlin committed nine turnovers and was plus-2 in turnover margin. Kempt led the squad by a significant margin with 108 tackles, 36 more than any other player, though was the only one of the top-four tacklers who was a non-senior. Joe Dreher had served as the Oberlin coach for the last seven seasons and produced a 28-36 record. Former assistant Trevor Williams is the new head coach, according to Kansas Prep Football. Williams was also the boys’ basketball coach the previous three winters, according to Oberlin’s MaxPreps page. 4-5 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man I Northwest Kansas League Coach: Trevor Williams (1st year) Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

OSWEGO

It appears the Matt Fowler effect is starting to take hold at Oswego High School. After leaving Spearville last year, Fowler had an immediate impact on the Oswego program in his first year. Oswego went 1-8 in 2017 before Fowler led the Indians to a 6-3 record and a playoff appearance in 2018. The Indians return seven of eight starters on both sides of the ball this year, and the sky’s the limit for an Oswego program that is looking for its first backto-back winning seasons since 2009-2010. “Our goals for the season are to play hard-nosed, physical football; make our community proud by playing hard and with class; and improve every day in season and out of season,” Fowler said. The Indians return one of the most productive running backs in 8-Man football in senior Jace Wilson. Last season, Wilson rushed for 1,440 yards and scored 21 touchdowns. Wilson had over 2,000 all-purpose yards through his contributions in the receiving game and as a returner as well. Junior Isaac Elliott saw time at running back and quarterback last season. Elliott rushed for 512 yards and 10 touchdowns while throwing for 415 yards and five touchdowns. Fowler lists Elliott as a running back in his Single Wing offense, but he was the team’s leading passer from a year ago. The Indians also return running back Lance Teal who rushed for 123 yards on 39 carries for two touchdowns. Oswego also returns all three linemen from last season in senior Chris Goddard, junior Mayson Mills and junior Tristan Gray; the same three anchor the defensive line in Fowler’s 3-2 defense. The defense is replacing Paidon Kite and his team-leading 113 tackles, but Wilson at defensive back was not too far behind with 112 stops. Elliott, at linebacker, and Teal, at defensive back, had 96 and 83 tackles respectively. After a five win improvement in Fowler’s first season, expectations are higher than ever. With a big offseason, Oswego could be due for even greater success this fall. “We must have a great summer in the weight room,” Fowler said. “We must do our best to manage factors that we control, and win the turnover battle.” 6-3 in 2018 / 3-2 district / 8-Man I Three Rivers League Coach: Matt Fowler (2nd year, 6-3; 11th overall, 68-35) Assistants: Steve McBrien, JD Walker, Jeff Schreppel, Lance Smith Offense: Single Wing Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Jace Wilson, RB/DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Chris Goddard, OL/DL, 6-0, 240, Sr.; Lance Teal, RB/DB, 6-1, 155, Jr.; Isaac Elliott, RB/LB, 6-4, 190, Jr.; Mayson Mills, OL/DL, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Tristan Gray, OL/DL, 5-8, 230, Jr.; Isac Elkins, TE/LB, 6-1, 190, Jr. Gallagher Martin

OXFORD

The Oxford Wildcats may have had a dismal season last year, but they are entering 2019 on a one-game winning streak. After dropping their first eight games of the year, the Wildcats ended last season with an 86-40 win over West Elk. Whether or not the momentum from the win carries over into this year remains to be seen, but Oxford should be able to improve upon its 1-8 record if the Wildcats can stay healthy. Head coach Shawn Burkes says his team was hit with the injury bug last year, but the Wildcats return seven of eight starters on both sides of the ball to set up an intriguing 2019 season. Oxford still plays in one of the toughest districts in 8-Man Division I which features South Central, Argonia-Attica, Caldwell and Udall. With a more experienced team this year, Burkes is hoping for more success. “We were thin on numbers last year so we are looking to be competitive and stay healthy this year,” Burkes said. The Wildcats will have a potent rushing attack this year with three returning rushers who eclipsed the 300-yard mark. Running back Andrew Hills led the team in both rushing yards and rushing touchdowns with 428 yards and six scores. Fellow running back Josh Smith ran for 395 yards and five touchdowns, while quarterback Ty Carter rushd for 344 yards and five touchdowns as well. If the Wildcats are to have more success on offense, Carter will need to improve his passing. Last season, Carter completed 36 percent of his passes for 374 yards, throwing two touchdowns to 10 interceptions. Carter was the team’s leading tackler last year from his linebacker position with 56. In fact, the Wildcats return their top five tacklers from a season ago. While Oxford still has areas to improve after a 1-8 season, the Wildcats should be optimistic they can be a better team in 2019. “We will have to continue to improve and have some younger kids step up,” Burkes said.

PEABODY-BURNS

Kody Tegtmeier’s first year as head coach of the Peabody-Burns football team included a trip to the 8-Man, Division I playoffs, but the Warriors were still far from reaching the success they have had earlier in the decade. Peabody-Burns went 3-6 last year with wins over Chase County, Herington and a 54-52 thriller over Goessel for the fourth and final playoff spot in the district. Peabody-Burns competes in District 4 with Canton-Galva, Solomon, Bennington, Goessel and Herington. Canton-Galva and Solomon are expected to be two of the top 8-Man teams in the state, but the Warriors have the potential to make the playoffs for the second straight season. Peabody-Burns returns six starters on both sides of the ball. Tegtmeier believes last year was a good start for the program, but he wants to see an improvement in 2019. “We plan to improve off of the building year that we had last year,” Tegtmeier said. “We got a taste of what it felt like to win a few games, and we plan to build on that taste. Our goals are to compete every down like it could be our last, and build off the success of each other.” The Warriors return a pair of senior running backs in Jess Philpot and Rocco Weerts. At 6-1, 170, Weerts is also listed as a center. If Weerts does play on the offensive line, he will be joined by senior Tristan Wedd, who also plays defensive tackle. Seniors Caleb VanCuren and Thomas Page play defensive end on defense and tight end on offense. Senior Jack Parks is another player who can play tight end or receiver and will also be counted on for leadership in the secondary on defense. Tegtmeier says execution will be the key this year. “We must come focused each day to practice to better understand the game and understand why we do the things we do,” Tegtmeier said. “Understanding our individual roles on the team will help us be more successful in 2019.”

3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 8-Man I Wheat State League Coach: Kody Tegtmeier (2nd year, 3-6; 4th overall, 1-8 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man I 5-22) Assistants: Bob Kyle, Eric Dutton South Central Border League Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Coach: Shawn Burkes (13th year, 39-68) Returning lettermen: 10 Assistants: Kyle Westerman, Gavin Pickering Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-4 Jess Philpot, RB/LB, 5-8, 185, Sr.; Rocco Weerts, Returning lettermen: 7 RB/C, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Jack Parks, E/S, 6-4, 180, Sr.; Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Caleb VanCuren, E/DE, 6-4, 180, Sr.; Thomas Page, Ty Carter, QB/LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Hunter Norland, C/ E/DE, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Tristian Wedd, OL/DL, 5-10, 180, DE, 6-0, 187, Sr.; Colton Jordan, G/DE, 6-4, 220, Sr. Conor Nicholl Sr.; Josh Smith, RB/LB, 5-8, 165, Jr.; Andrew Hills, RB/LB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Austin Gaither, G/DL, 5-10, 180, So.; Colin Whitson, WR/DB, 5-7, 140, Jr. GM From 2012 through 2014, Sedan finished three straight seasons with a losing record. The Blue Devils have not finished below .500 since, and are coming off a 7-2 season in 2018 that saw Sedan win a district championship with a runner-up performance lineman Hadley Girty. in the South Central Border League. Sophomore linemen Cael Sorum and Brandon Sedan started last season 4-0 with tight wins over Gleason will add to the returning experience up front. St. Paul and Oswego. After a surprising, blowout loss While the Mustangs certainly need to produce more to Cedar Vale/Dexter, Sedan rebounded with three offense to take the next step in the win column, the straight wins, all by at least 22 points. key to more wins could revolve around a defense But the Blue Devils could not get past the first which gave up at least 50 points in six of nine games round of the 8-Man Division I playoffs, falling to last season. Attica/Argonia, 28-8. That said, the points scored to points allowed ratio The Blue Devils return five of eight starters on both is steadily improving. It was 36-514 in 2016, 104-480 sides of the ball and head coach Mick Holt wants to in 2017 and 126-423 last fall. improve off last year’s success. The schedule will again be challenging with seven “Our team goals are to repeat as district champiof the nine teams recording winning records in 2018. ons, and get to the second round of playoffs,” Holt said. 2-7 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man I Outside of the team’s season-ending loss to Attica/ South Central Border League Argonia, Sedan scored at least 32 points in each Coach: Daniel Scribner (3rd year, 2-16) game. On the season, the Blue Devils averaged over Assistant: Chase Casteel 45 points a game. Offense: DTSW Defense: 3-3 Replacing two starters on the offensive line will Returning lettermen: N/A be a major key, although the Blue Devils return two Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense senior offensive linemen in Stephen Hambleton and Kedryn Morse, QB, Sr.; Levi Brown, RB, Sr.; Braden Nile Osborne. Wight, RB, Sr.; Isaac Bugner, WR, Sr.; Justus Humig, Senior Tayte Halderman is the team’s most exploTE, Sr.; Hadley Girty, L, Sr.; Cael Sorum, L, So.; sive player. He rushed for 1,008 yards and 15 TDs Brandon Gleason, L, Sr. John Baetz last season. He is the team’s leading passer as well,

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Page 130

In his first year as head coach of Pratt-Skyline in 2017, Andrew Nation finished the season 2-7 — a one-win improvement from the prior season. Last season, Nation guided the Thunderbirds to a 3-6 record, including back-to-back wins over St. John and Kinsely to finish the season. The Thunderbirds are hoping the momentum gained at the end of last season continues into 2019 as Nation will attempt to continue the trend of improving the previous season’s win total. Pratt-Skyline returns 75 percent of its starters on both sides of the ball as this could be Nation’s best team he has had in his three year stint. The Thunderbirds return junior quarterback Braden Tyler, who led the team in passing and rushing last year. Eli Temanson may be the team’s best overall player. He was second on the team in rushing behind Tyler last year while leading the team in tackles from his linebacker position. Jesus Casas saw playing time as a freshman and will continue to do so his sophomore season at running back and defensive back. At 6-3, Eliazar Carrasco will provide a tall target at receiver for Tyler to throw to, while tight end Ryan Adams figures to also be a part of the passing game. The Thunderbirds should be physical in the trenches with seniors Brock Montgomery, Colton Gatton, and Bryson Fletcher leading the way. The trio serve as the starting offensive and defensive linemen. While Central Plains is the likely favorite, Pratt-Skyline should be competitive with much of the rest of the district which includes Little River, Macksville, Moundridge and St. John. Last year, the Thunderbirds were uncompetitive against Central Plains and Little River, but played Moundridge and Macksville close, and defeated St. John by 48. “Our goals for the season are to earn a playoff spot one week at a time,” Nation said. “The keys to our success will be blocking, tackling, and staying healthy.” 3-6 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man I Heart of the Plains League Coach: Andrew Nation (3rd year, 5-13) Assistant: Kenny Eddy Offense: I-formation Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 16 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Eli Temanson, FB/LB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Ryan Adams, TE/DE, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Brock Montgomery, OL/DL, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Colton Gatton, C/NG, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Bryson Fletcher, OL/DL, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Thomas Sturgeon, TE/LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Braden Tyler, QB/DB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Eliazer Carrasco, WR/DB, 6-3, 170, Jr.; Jesus Casas, RB/DB, 6-0, 170, So. Gallagher Martin

SEDAN

ROSALIA-FLINTHILLS

While the Mustangs’ two wins may not seem like much to most people, it was a massive improvement over the previous five seasons that included just two total wins and a 35 game losing streak. Flinthills broke that lengthy losing streak, which dated back to September of 2014, with a 34-20 win over Oxford in Week 3. The Mustangs added a second victory on the 2018 season in a Week 7 win over West Elk, 42-28. The Patriots beat Flinthills a combined 100-0 in their prior two meetings. Now in season three under coach Daniel Scribner the Mustangs enter a year with as much optimism as anytime in recent memory. “We will be as senior heavy as we have been since I’ve been at Flinthills,” Scribner said just prior to the season. “We lost a couple of pretty good linemen, but get back all of our skill positions.” The backfield will be led by a pair of seniors in quarterback Kedryn Morse and running back Levi Brown. Morse accounted for 1,250 all-purpose yards last season, while Brown rushed for over 600 yards a year ago. Running back Braden Wight also returns for his senior season along with senior wide receiver Isaac Bugner, senior tight end Justus Humig and senior

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throwing for 390 yards and four more scores. Damion Hatton was a big part of Sedan’s success last year as a freshman. Hatton saw time at quarterback where he threw for 326 yards and seven touchdowns, and also at running back where he rushed for 289 yards and six touchdowns. Holt lists Halderman at quarterback and Hatton at running back to enter the season, but both players should be able to do each other’s jobs if needed. Junior Eli Campbell is the team’s leading returning receiver after catching three touchdowns for 121 yards last season. Defensively, Campbell led the team with 75 tackles at safety. “We are replacing two starters from our offensive line, so we will need some young men to step up,” Holt said. “Avoiding injuries will be our key to success.” 7-2 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I South Central Border League Coach: Mick Holt (10th year, 51-30) Assistant: John Pray Offense: Single Back Option Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Tayte Halderman, QB/OLB, 6-1, 150, Sr.; Nile Osborne, OL/DE, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Stephen Hambleton, OL/DL, 6-0, 410, Sr.; Eli Campbell, RB/TE/S, 5-10, 155, Jr.; Damion Hatton, RB/S, 6-2, 150, So.; Ronald Davis, RB/LB, 5-7, 145, So. Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

SOLOMON

Two years ago, Solomon finished 5-4 and had substantial injuries. Jake Harmon, the leading rusher from 2016, suffered a torn ACL before the season. QB Braden Neilson was hurt during the year. Three offensive linemen helped clean a horse barn, contracted poison ivy, and missed a game. Last fall, Solomon was substantially healthier and enjoyed the greatest season in school history with an 11-2 record and finished as 8-Man, Division I runner-up to Central Plains, the first state game trip in Gorillas’ history. In the regular season, Solomon lost 38-20 at Canton-Galva in district play. In the playoffs, the Gorillas defeated Maranatha Academy (52-6), Madison (30-26), Argonia-Attica (14-6) and then defeated Canton-Galva (28-12) in the rematch before a 52-6 loss to Central Plains. Solomon graduated several all-staters, including fullback/lineman Jobe Fowles (773 rush, 25 TFLs), Neilson (106 tackles, 9 INTs, 37 total TDs) and linebacker Eli Basvic (123 tackles, 26 for loss). David Strait is in his third year with the program and first as head coach after Steve Tiernan returned to Osborne. “We do lose a great senior class who really showed what the product of hard work is,” Strait said. “We have lots of young guys who were a part of the run and saw how much of an investment it takes to do something special. We are really just focusing on taking it a day at a time and getting better every day. If you show up on time, work hard with a good attitude, and be coachable, we can’t ask for any more than that. If we do those things, then I think what happens on the field takes care of itself.” Strait said team strengths include having “lots of young guys” and a “good senior class of leaders.” Concerns are replacing most of the offense and defense, and lack of experience. Senior Cobey Fiske returns as the most experienced player after 21 catches for 475 yards and nine scores, along with 111 tackles and seven TFLs. Junior defensive back Alex Herbel returns after posting 66 tackles and four interceptions. Senior Brock Nelson tallied 16 tackles and is 6 foot, 260 pounds. 11-2 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I Wheat State League Coach: David Strait (1st year) Assistants: Mike Kilgore, Bo Soden, Ryan Krajieck, Luke Riorden Offense: I Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: NA Returning starters: 2 Offense, 2 Defense Cobey Fiske, TE/LB, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Alex Herbel, DB, 5-9, 150, Jr.; Brock Nelson, L, 6-0, 260, Sr. CN

SPEARVILLE

Spearville had another solid season in the first year of the Travis Callaway era. The Lancers had posted 8-2, 10-1, 13-0, 11-1 and 11-1 records in the previous five years with Matt Fowler, though had significant graduation losses and changed the offense last year. The Lancers have posted a winning mark every fall since 2011. The Lancers scored 42.8 points per game and permitted 31.2 last season. Spearville opened the season with a 52-6 win versus Satanta, then lost to South Central, 24-8. The Lancers then delivered four straight victories versus Ingalls (72-44), Kinsley (60-14), Kiowa County (42-34) and a signature win versus Ness City (16-14). Spearville was then blown out by rival Hodgeman County, 54-8, before victories against South Gray (68-22) and Little River (54-24). The Lancers finished third in District 6 with Hodgeman County, Ness City and Spearville all with 4-1 records. HC was plus-82 in district points, Ness City had plus-63, and Spearville was plus-31. In the Round of 16, Spearville fell again to rival Hodgeman County, 76-48. Kolby Stein graduated after a brilliant career where he completed 31 of 56 passes for 571 yards with 8/1 TD/INT ratio. He was a Kpreps all-state pick at linebacker after 86 tackles with four for loss. Returning senior Carson Rich, in just seven games, had 125 carries for 973 yards and 14 scores. Stein has 155 carries for 859 yards and 21 TDs. The Lancers had just seven turnovers and was plus-six in turnover margin. Five of the top-six tacklers graduated. Rich was third in tackles with 69 stops. Rich has enjoyed a nice career with 168 carries for 1,238 yards and 19 TDs, along with 24 catches for 505 yards and 10 scores and 182 total tackles. Hodgeman County returns plenty of talent and will be the district favorite, while Spearville and Ness City were depleted by graduation, but should still be in contention for a playoff spot.

ST. JOHN-HUDSON

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Coach Nick Fawcett had an excellent first season with St. Francis with an 11-1 showing, sub-state appearance and final No. 2 ranking by Kpreps. The Indians had delivered a combined record of 18-3 the previous two seasons, though 2017 ended with just 13 players out for football. Coach Rodney Yates left for Cambridge, Neb., where his team went 5-4 last year, but were 11 points from being 9-0, and have high expectations for 2019. Fawcett, an assistant at several places, most recently Hays High, installed the Single Wing at St. Francis and said his focus was on making the game enjoyable for the players. Several Indians came out who had not played in previous years and Fawcett had a 24-player roster last fall. Running back Jordan Raby earned classification Offensive Player of the Year honors by Sports In Kansas. Known for his quickness, Raby often took the direct snap in the Single Wing and in the process rushed for 1,425 yards, 22 rushing scores and five special teams TDs. Cody Baxter also graduated after all-state honors from Kpreps as a defensive end when he delivered 74 tackles, 21.5 for loss. Brady Dinkel, who has started since his freshman year on defense and at QB since he was a sophomore, tallied 1,049 rushing yards for a team that averaged 42.2 points a game. Dinkel is also an effective passer who completed almost 62 percent of his passes for 388 yards with six TDs and two INTs. Raby and St. Francis had a signature win versus rival, and then-No. 4 ranked Hoxie, 64-30, in Week 5. In the playoffs, the Indians defeated Stockton (46-0), Victoria (30-12) and Hodgeman County (30-20) before the 42-0 loss against Central Plains. This season, Fawcett’s goals are to stay healthy and win the state championship. All five returning starters collected some honor in 2018, either honorable mention all-state and/or league recognition. Returning linemen Jesse Baxter and Colton Neitzel had never played football before last year and now Fawcett believes they are among the best in the classification. Dinkel and Shaydron Blanka are the only Indians back for 2019 who played in 2017 and 2018.

St. John’s current senior class will never know what it’s like to have the same head coach for more than one year. For the fourth time in four years, the St. John program is fielding a new head coach. It’s Robert Hall’s turn to lead the Tigers. Hall spent last season as co-head coach at Stafford. The Tigers are currently on a 13-game losing streak. This decade, St. John has had three winning seasons and two winless seasons. The Tigers went 0-9 last year with their closest loss coming against Kinsley, 36-24. The St. John offense must replace all eight starters which might not be as bad as it sounds. The Tigers were shutout three times and held to single digits seven out of nine times last year. For the season, St. John averaged 7.1 points per game. The Tigers may be starting a freshman at quarterback this year in Marco Ibarra. Ibarra is one of five freshmen who could be starters. Hall also lists four sophomores who will be in the running for playing time. “We will be very young, starting several freshmen and sophomores this year,” Hall said. The Tigers have six seniors who will all be counted on for leadership. The Tigers should be strong in the trenches with seniors Jonathan Villanueva (6-4, 200), Trevor Tanner (6-2, 240), and Zack Fischer (5-10, 200) anchoring both the offensive and defensive lines. The Tigers play in District 5, which features defending state champion Central Plains. Little River has also been a familiar presence in the playoffs in recent years, while Macksville, Moundridge and Pratt-Skyline round out the district. “We will be looking to rebuild the foundation of the program,” Hall said. “We have a lot of young guys willing to put work into getting better and building off that.” St. John, known primarily for it’s success on the basketball court, has 11 football playoff appearances in its history. Its best run was a dash to the state quarterfinals in 1983.

11-1 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man I Northwest Kansas League Coach: Nick Fawcett (2nd year, 11-1) Assistants: Scott Carmichael, Devin Dinkel Offense: Single Wing Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 5 Defense Brady Dinkel, QB/DB, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Jesse Baxter, OL, 6-4, 205, Jr.; Colton Neitzel, C, 6-4, 230, Jr.; Shadyron Blanka, LB, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Jayce Nider, LB, 5-9, 155, Sr. Conor Nicholl

0-9 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man I Central Prairie League Coach: Robert Hall (1st year) Assistant: Danton Hilton Offense: Spread Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Gallagher Martin

Udall has increased its win total every year since 2016. For the Eagles to do so again in 2019, replacing Josh Fielder will be key. At quarterback, Fielder rushed for 1,551 yards and a whopping 33 touchdowns while throwing for 486 yards and six touchdowns. Senior Trevor Whiteman, who caught all six of Fielder’s touchdowns with 473 receiving yards, will transition from wide receiver to QB this season. Quarterback is not the only position with question marks for Udall heading into the season. The Eagles lost all three offensive linemen to graduation, includ3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 8-Man I ing 6-4, 390 pound center Tristen Scurlock. Mid-Continent League Still, the Eagles return lots of talent from a 7-3 team Coach: Phil Conyac (5th year, 10-27) that made the second round of the 8-Man, Division I Assistant: Justin Basart playoffs last season. The Eagles lost to AtticaOffense: Spread Defense: 3-4 Argonia, 42-36, in the playoffs, a team they beat Returning lettermen: 14 earlier in the regular season. Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense “We return some good talent from last season’s 7-3 Ben Rogers, RB/DB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Gage Conyac, TE/DE, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Trevor Miller, QB/LB, 5-7, 155, team,” head coach Wyatt Williams said. “We need to Sr.; Trenton Howell, SB/DB, 5-7, 145, Sr.; Kameron find linemen, and are expecting some young players to step up.” Hamel, WR/DE, 6-1, 160, Jr.; Logan Hemphill, OL/ Look for senior Alan Garton to have a big year at DT, 5-10, 210, Jr.; Jace Hull, RB/LB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Leighton Colburn, WR/DB, 5-7, 140, Jr.; Troy Rogers, fullback with Fielder gone. Garton was the team’s second leading rusher last season with 585 yards RB/LB, 5-11, 175, Jr.; Rylan Basart, TE/DT, 6-0, 190, Sr. Conor Nicholl and seven touchdowns. Junior running back Dylan Bishop injured his ACL halfway through the season, but that didn’t stop him from racking up 447 rushing yards and six

touchdowns in only five games last year. On defense, the Eagles return linebackers Isaac Jirak and Isaac Patterson. Patterson led the team with 78 tackles and was third with five tackles for loss while Jirak had 35 tackles and a sack last season. As a team, Udall recorded 10 interceptions on defense last season; Whiteman was responsible for seven of them. He was also third on the team last season with 71 tackles. The Eagles are talented at skill positions and have studs on defense. The only thing stopping Udall from being a very good football team in 2019 is the trenches. If Udall can find linemen to step up, the Eagles could be poised for a playoff run. “We expect to be good once again, and expect to be in the playoffs,” Williams said.

7-3 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man I Southern Plains Iroquois Activities Association Coach: Travis Callaway (2nd year, 7-3; 4th overall, 10-18) Assistants: Chris Sohm, Andrew Kempke Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 2 Offense, 3 Defense Carson Rich, RB/LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Isaac Mettling, RB/DB, 5-11, 150, Sr.; Tanner Miller, OL/DL, 5-11, 205, Jr. Conor Nicholl

STOCKTON

Stockton bumped from 1-8 to 3-6 and had a sizable improvement defensively. Two years ago, the Tigers scored 20.7 points a contest and allowed 48.7. Last year, Stockton was at 26 points scored per game and 39 points allowed. Stockton finished fourth in District 7 behind CliftonClyde, Victoria and Hill City, all teams that finished with winning records. C-C was 9-1, while Victoria went 7-3 and Hill City was 5-4. Stockton had no games closer than 22 points. The Tigers opened the season with a 52-24 loss against WaKeeney-Trego, and then defeated Sylvan-Lucas, 54-26. After a 68-22 loss to Osborne, Stockton beat Washington County, 56-8. Two big losses versus Hill City and Clifton Clyde followed before the Tigers defeated Lincoln, 54-6. Then, Stockton ended the season with losses to Victoria (40-18) and St. Francis (46-0). “The groundwork has been laid and we look forward to becoming a successful, more competitive team in 2019,” coach Phil Conyac said. “We certianally will have a line-up built on seniors and juniors that all have gained significant varsity experience the last two seasons. This year we have the most competition for starting positions that we have ever had. “Our mission will be to replace two exceptional athletes that we lost due to graduation, Brady Beougher at QB and Jalen Basart at LB/RB. Both were captains and leaders on and off the field. “We will lean heavily on Troy Rogers and Jace Hull at the running back position. Gage Conyac

ST. FRANCIS

(TE), Rylan Basart (TE), Kameron Hamel (WR), and Leighton Colburn (WR) will fill the receiving positions. Trevor Miller and Ben Rogers will be competing for the quarterback position. Logan Hemphill returns on the o-line and competition for the remaining spots will include Thomas Kester, Nolan Buss and Deyton Bedore. “Markeis Spiller and Trenton Howell return to compete and to provide depth at the skill positions. Justin Knoll, Dillon Howell and Skyler King join us as incoming freshman and we will welcome their contributions.”

UDALL

7-3 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man I South Central Border League Coach: Wyatt Williams (14th year, 72-53) Assistants: Blake Wilkey, Barney Rockey Offense: Pistol Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Trevor Whiteman, WR/DB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Alan Garton, RB/DE, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Isaac Jirak, TE/LB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Dylan Bishop, RB, 5-9, 200, Jr.; Isaac Patterson, LB, 5-8, 180, Sr. Gallagher Martin

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 133

8-Man II

Others: Frankfort, Hutch-Central Christian, Otis-Bison, Sylvan-Lucas, Thunder Ridge

Photo by Everett Royer

’s y o B y l F t i s i V -526-7800

Photo by Terri Thrun

Beau Batchman [Sylvan-Lucas Unified] 6-1, 180, RB/LB, Sr.; 1,400 yards, 20 TDs, 101 tackles in 2018 Darrien Holloway [Osborne] 5-11, 165, RB, Sr.; 1,574 yards, 36 TDs in 2018 Adam Hall [Hutch-Central Christian] 6-0, 155, WR, Sr.; 37 rec., 698 yards, 9 TDs in 2018 Jensen Riffel [Centre] 6-0, 210, RB/LB, Sr.; All-Wheat State League Trevor Rooks [South Barber] 6-0, 180, QB, Sr.; 2,220 combined rush/pass yards, 45 TDs

By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Hanover went 13-0 and captured the Eight-Man, Division II state championship with a 58-50 victory against Osborne. The Wildcats won their third straight title and bumped its winning streak to 38 contests. This year, Hanover has the opportunity to break the state’s eight-man all-time consecutive victories record in the 50-year KSHSAA era. The mark is 41 games, set by Almena-Northern Valley from ’85-88, and Scandia from ’70-73, according to Kansas Sports Hall of Fame. Hanover finished as state runner-up in ’14 and ’15 in Division I before three straight titles at the Division II level. Coach Matt Heuer stands at 140-25 after 14 seasons leading his alma mater. Hanover graduated a significant number of first team all-state players off the ’18 squad. Quarterback Daiken Stallbaumer was a three-time first team all-state pick, including sophomore season on defense. Carter Bruna earned Sports in Kansas classification Defensive Player of the Year. He was the last of the 10 Bruna children to play for the Wildcats. All-purpose threat Thomas Atkins also graduated. However, Heuer has long reloaded the program, notably at quarterback with a string of standout signal callers with different skill sets. Senior Taegan Schwartz returns after 46 carries for 391 yards and seven touchdowns. Junior Colin Jueneman had 21 carries for 235 yards and five scores. Jacob Jueneman was the backup quarterback as a sophomore; three of his four completions went for touchdowns. Colin Jueneman and Schwartz are the only returning players who caught a pass as Hanover graduated 90 percent of its receptions. Senior Jonah Weber is a key starter up front with 62 tackles, 8.5 for loss, both numbers that ranked third and are tops among returners. Last season, Hanover faced resistance in two matchups against Axtell, its Twin Valley League rival. Axtell went 10-2 and lost 50-42 to Hanover in Week 6, and 60-14 in the sub-state title game. Axtell has dropped 13 straight to Hanover dating back to ’05. However, the Eagles have a high volume of returners, notably quarterback Quinn Buessing. With a similar season to ’18, Buessing could break a bevy of state eight-man passing records, including career passing yards, career touchdowns and career completions. Last year, he passed for 2,595 yards for a 51/3 TD/INT ratio. Receiver Hunter Koch graduated after he had 1,265 receiving yards and 33 receiving scores. He set eight-man records for single season and career receiving scores. Even without Koch, Axtell received all but eight of its rushing yards from non-se-

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1. Hanover 2. Axtell 3. Osborne 4. St. Paul 5. South Barber

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KANSAS PREGAME 8-MAN II PRESEASON RANKINGS

12 PLAYERS TO WATCH

Here are twelve players to watch in 8-Man II this fall:

Branden Bussman [Frankfort] 6-0, 165, RB/QB/LB, Sr.; 1,000 all-purpose, 18 TDs Jonah Weber [Hanover] 6-3, 250, OL/DL, Sr.; 62 tackles, 8.5 TFLs, 6.5 sacks Dawson Urwiller [Hutch-Central Christian] 5-10, LB, Jr.; 78 tkls., 2 INTs in 2018 Trevor Zarybnicky [Wheatland-Grinnell] 6-3, 225, TE/LB, Jr.; 99 tackles in 2018 Mason Schurr [Osborne] 5-7, 150, RB, So.; 850 yards, 11 TDs in 2018 Tra Barrientes [Sylvan-Lucas] 5-8, 220, OL/DL, Jr.; Hays Daily All-Area HM Gage Cantrell [South Barber] 6-1, 190, TE/RB/LB, Sr.; 58 tkls., 15 TFLs in 2018

niors, along with 62 percent of its receptions. Also in the east, St. Paul returns exceptional quarterback Adam Albertini from a 9-2 squad that lost 46-0 to Hanover in the playoffs. Albertini has enjoyed back-to-back standout seasons, including 2,241 rushing yards and 60 total touchdowns last fall. St. Paul will likely have seven seniors, including linemen/ends Gib Carter, Chase Bradshaw, Chandler Bradshaw and Easton Dent. Hutchinson Central Christian has tallied at least 62 points a game in the last three years. CC could advance to at least the semifinals for the first time in school history this season. The Cougars return their all-state quarterback Caleb Lambert, along with the starting running back, wingback and wide receiver and two of the three offensive linemen. Lambert completed 64 percent of his passes for 2,055 yards with a 32/7 TD/INT ratio. He rushed for 798 yards and 22 TDs. Adam Hall had 37 catches for 698 yards and nine scores. Another likely breakout player is Thunder Ridge running back Reece Struckhoff. He had to miss last season because of transfer rules, though has posted 4.6 in the 40-yard dash, a 34-inch vertical and 14 reps of 225 on the bench press. continued on page 134

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

ALMENA-NORTHERN VALLEY

Chuck Fessenden retired after 43 seasons of coaching Northern Valley football with a 292-142 record. He served as head football coach every year and was also the longtime boys’ basketball and track coach. Fessenden enjoyed great success in all three sports. He capped his career with the Class 1A boys’ track crown in May and also coached Paige Baird, who captured her fourth straight 400-meter dash title. In basketball, NV won the Class 1A, Division II boys’ title two years ago, and advanced to the 1A sub-state title game and went 21-3 last year. “We have got a good group of kids right now, and the way it is right now, I am doing football, basketball, track,” Fessenden said after the sub-state basketball loss. “So I am doing everything, so basically I work the whole week all week, including the weekends, Saturday and Sunday and stuff, so it’s quite a bit.” In football, the Huskies went 7-3 the last two years. Overall, Fessenden captured football championships in ’86, ’87 and ’90 and was runner-up in ’82, ’83, ’88 and ’89. NV won 41 straight contests in the ‘80s, the longest eight-man winning streak in the 50-year KSHSAA playoff era, according to the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame. Fessenden said he was most pleased working with the athletes. “Just all the kids, especially these guys,” he said. “They are really, really good kids. Just the kids, I think, the work they put in, and to do what we do.” In August NV principal Ken Tharman confirmed former assistant Marvin Gebhard would serve as the new head football coach with Jason Stephens serving as his assistant. From ’11-16, NV has posted records of 6-3, 7-2, 5-4, 6-3, 3-6 and 4-5 before the back-to-back seven-win seasons. Last season, the Huskies finished 3-0 in league play. In District 5, Osborne finished 5-0, while Northern Valley, Sylvan-Lucas and Thunder Ridge all finished 3-2. NV took second in the district at plus-19, while Sylvan-Lucas was plus-17 and Thunder Ridge was plus-7. NV averaged 40.2 points per game and permitted 31.2. Two years ago, the Huskies delivered 43.6 points a game and permitted 23.3. NV had major graduation losses, notably Kpreps all-state defensive back Nick Stutsman. He had 118 tackles, three interceptions, passed for 650 yards, rushed for 823 and accounted for 18 scores. NV graduated 89 percent of its rushing yards, all but eight of its 70 receptions, and its top-two tacklers from last year. 7-3 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man II Western Kansas Liberty League Coach: Marvin Gebhard (1st year) Assistant: Jason Stephens Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning starters: N/A Conor Nicholl

AXTELL

Behind all-state quarterback Quinn Buessing, the Axtell High School offense put up video game numbers en route to a 10-2 season. Buessing threw 51 touchdowns to only three interceptions while piling up nearly 2,600 yards passing. Axtell scored at least 42 points in 11 of 12 games and scored at least 60 in fives games. And outside of two losses to Hanover, no team came within 46 points of Axtell. Axtell also gave Hanover its closest game of the year on Oct. 5 in a 50-42 shootout. When the two teams met in the 8 Man Division II semifinals, it was all Hanover, 60-14. The Eagles still have goals of making it far in the playoffs, but replacing record-setting receiver Hunter Koch and two offensive linemen are concerns that will need to be addressed. Of Buessing’s 51 touchdowns, 33 went to Koch. It’s doubtful that Koch’s productivity can be replaced, but there are promising candidates. Derek Buessing finished last year with 31 catches and two touchdowns, but those numbers are expected to skyrocket. Clark Werner has recorded two career catches, while head coach Eric Detweiler noted Mitchell Buessing as a candidate for playing time at receiver. “Our receivers have big shoes to fill,” Detweiler said. The Axtell defense was solid to say the least. The offense did not need much help, and the defense kept every team not named Hanover to under 30 points. Kolby Talbot is the leader on the offensive and defensive lines and had 104 tackles last year as a sophomore. The Eagles also have two experienced linebackers in Quinn Buessing and George Volle, who combined for 151 tackles. J.J. Hart leads the secondary. At 5-7, 145 pounds, Hart had 77 tackles and two interceptions last year. Hart and Volle are also the team’s top two running backs. “We won’t have a lot of depth, so if we can stay healthy and have some younger kids step up, we hope to make a deep run into the playoffs again,” Detweiler said. 10-2 in 2018 / 5-1 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Eric Detweiler (7th year, 45-16) Assistants: Dale Buessing, Craig Wiebe Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 5 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Quinn Buessing, QB/LB, 6-3, 185, Sr.; George Volle, RB/LB, 5-7, 160, Jr.; J.J. Hart, RB/DB, 5-7, 145, Sr.; Kolby Talbot, OL/DL, 6-0, 220, Jr.; Derek Buessing, TE/DE, 6-1, 160, Sr. Gallagher Martin

BUFFALO-ALTOONA MIDWAY

In 2017, Altoona Midway ended a losing streak that dated back to 2010. The Jets halted a 36-game skid with a 44-26 victory in Week 3 against Chetopa, the program’s first win since Tyro Christian in the 2010 season finale. As well, the Jets defeated Marais des Cygnes Valley, 40-36, in district and went 2-7. Last year, the Jets made more history with another 2-7 season. In Week 4, the Jets won at Chetopa, 3814, and won at Colony-Crest, 36-20, in Week 8. The victories allowed the Jets to reach the playoffs for the first time since 1992. Altoona Midway took fourth in 8-Man, Division II, District 1. The Jets rushed for more than 330 rushing yards in the Crest victory. Dayton Marsh delivered 158 yards and three touchdowns, and Clement Huffman had 70 rushing yards and two scores. Midway’s only other playoff appearances came from ’90-92. Midway posted just five victories from ’06-16 before the four combined in ’17-18. Overall, last season, Midway scored 13.8 points per game and allowed 41.8. Former assistant Chad Raida has taken over as head coach for Joe Arell. “As the season approaches we will look to build upon last season and reach the playoffs in consecutive years,” Raida said. “As a coach I want to instill a winning culture back to AM and a team that will compete week in and week out. I don’t want teams

to look at us on the schedule and write it off as a win. I believe this season will be a great start to that and the underclassmen learn from the seniors and build on it in the years to come!” The Jets return six starters. Sophomore Jackson Ashmore and junior Josh Meigs will compete for the starting QB position. Jimmy Willard and Marsh will be in the backfield, along with Kendall Pierce and Hunter Wittlake at tight end/line. Defensively, AM has six starters back. Meigs led the team in tackles even though he played just five weeks due to injury. Jimmy Willard will look to continue his role as middle linebacker. 2-7 in 2018 / 1-2 in district / 8-Man II Three Rivers League Coach: Chad Raida (1st year) Assistant: Randy Almond Offense: I-formation Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Jimmy Willard, RB/LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Dayton Marsh, RB/LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Josh Meigs, QB/LB, 6-0, 155, Jr.; Kendall Pierce, TE/DE, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Hunter Wittlake, OT/DT, 6-2, 390, Jr.; Caden Carter, TE/DE, 5-11, 155, Sr.; Jackson Ashmore, QB/S, 5-9, 140, So. Conor Nicholl

BELOIT-ST. JOHN’S/TIPTON

One of the more surprising offseason moves was the non-renewal of veteran coach Keith Kresin’s contract at St. John’s Catholic School. Dean Gengler inherits a program that has seven straight winning seasons: 8-2, 11-1, 7-3, 6-3, 7-3 and back-to-back 5-4 marks. Gengler is a 1985 graduate of St. John’s Catholic and was a BSJT assistant last year. Kresin went 51-36 in nine years as the Blujay football coach, according to NCKSSports.com’s Dusty Deines. Kresin finished 218-63 as the girls’ basketball coach, including four trips to the state tournament and a Class 1A, Division II state title in ’15. Deines reported in March that Kresin was relieved of his duties for football, basketball and track. In ’18, BSJT had just 14 players, averaged 30.4 points per game and permitted 22.4. It marked improvements off ’17 when the Blujays had 26.9 points a contest and 31.3 allowed. Last season, BSJT opened with a 58-12 loss against Axtell and then won four straight, the first three by at least 38 points, and then a 20-6 victory versus Pike Valley. The Blujays fell to Frankfort, 60-14, and then defeated Lakeside, 60-0, and lost to Rock Hills, 34-12. BSJT fell to Frankfort, 30-8, in the Week 9 bracket game. The Blujays graduated Kail Dubbert, an 8-Man all-star, along with Ben Towner (OL/DE). BSJT will also have dual-participation for the first time in football and cross country, something several small school teams the Blujays play, including Axtell and Lakeside, have done for years. Gengler said the football/cross country double “presents both opportunities and challenges.” BSJT will be on the road the first three weeks. “We have good size in a couple of positions and some speed in the backfield, so we have some potential,” Gengler said. “Due to injuries and low numbers last year, most players played a lot of downs and we have some good returning leadership.” QB Alex Ketter is back after 464 passing, 31 completion rate and a 5/5 TD/INT ratio. Brayden Perez rushed 96 times for 867 yards and 12 scores as a sophomore. Fifty-seven percent of the rushing yards and 69 percent of the receptions return.

BUCKLIN

Page 134

Coach Brad Estes led the Red Aces to a three-win improvement last season and a 4-5 record. Bucklin enjoyed its best season since a 6-2 mark in 2007. This year, Estes looks to lead the Red Aces to the playoffs for the first time since a 6-5 mark in 2006. Bucklin did not win a game from 2009-’13 and since then has posted no more than two wins from ’14-17 before the improvement last year. Last year, Bucklin lost its first two games by a combined score of 101-6 against South Central and Otis-Bison, squads that both won at least eight games. Then, the Red Aces defeated Chase, 38-6, followed by a 58-8 road loss to Ingalls. After a 32-6 road win versus Fairfield, Bucklin lost to Stafford (54-8) and Satanta (52-28) before two wins versus Minneola (48-42) and Norwich (38-8). Estes wants Bucklin to “take another step forward in all phases of the game” and “compete at all times under all circumstances.” Last year, Bucklin scored 22.7 points a contest and allowed 36.3 a game. The Red Aces improved by 12.7 points per contest over 2017, the 13th-best offensive improvement among 8-Man teams. “Without question, the key to our success will begin and end with the level of dedication and commitment that our athletes deliver during our summer program,” coach Estes said. “Assuming that summer goes well and our upperclassmen show great leadership from the moment we take the field, we should be formidable on both sides of the ball.” Bucklin has a significant number of players entering at least their third years as starters, including senior Talon Estes, who switched from QB to tight end and is one of the state’s top high jumpers. Seniors Gabe Ellis and Ryan Durr are also returning multi-season starters. Junior Josh Stout is back at QB. 4-5 in 2018 / 2-4 in district / 8-Man II Southern Plains Iroquois Activities Association Coach: Brad Estes (5th year, 10-24) Assistants: Trever Powell, Van Kenton, Mark Shelton Offense: Pro Set Offense Defense: 3-4/4-2 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Talon Estes, TE/WR/OLB, 6-2, 160, Sr.; Gabe Ellis, FB/OL/MLB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Ryan Durr, RB/WR/OLB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Shemar Warnke, WR/DB, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Josh Stout, QB/SS, 6-1, 165, Jr.; Kevin Vasquez, OL, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Scott Price, RB/DB, 5-8, 150, So.; Gunnar Hearne, OL/DL, 6-0, 250, So. Conor Nicholl

5-4 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Dean Gengler (1st year) Returning starters: N/A Offense, N/A Defense Alex Ketter, QB/LB, Sr.; Anthony Henke, QB/RB/LB, Jr., Brayden Perez, RB/DB, Jr.; Blake Perez, RB/DB, Jr.; Brady Palen, TE/WR/S, Jr.; Timmy Greenwood, TE/LB, Jr.; Dalton Schmitt, OL/DL. Jr.; Hayden Last season, TR finished 5-4 after three combined Griffin, OL/DL, So.; Eric Koenigsman, OL/DE, Sr. wins in the three previous years. Thunder Ridge will Conor Nicholl

8-Man II/from page 133___

play in District 5, one of the more intriguing districts with Osborne (11-2) and Sylvan-Lucas (6-4). Like BURRTON TR, both teams enjoy a standout running back. Longtime Pretty Prairie coach C.T. Young takes Darrien Holloway had enjoyed three big years, over long struggling Burrton. Young went 114-49 in including 189 carries for 1,574 yards and 33 scores. 17 years with Pretty Prairie, though did not coach PP in 2018. Coach Steve Tiernan returns for his second stint The Chargers went winless and finished last in with Osborne after he led the Bulldogs to a state District 7, a district that had two teams with winning title in ’13. Beau Batchman paces S-L after 1,400 records and finished 5-18 in non-district contests. rushing yards and 101 tackles. South Barber and Central Christian went a combined 16-4 and should again be solid this year. South Barber and Otis-Bison combined for 17 Chris Jensen served as Burrton’s coach the last victories and one of the oddest games in recent four seasons. history, a 36-36 tie in Week 6 that ended at half due The Chargers played two games within 28 points, a 36-8 home loss to Pretty Prairie in Week 2, and a to weather, just the second tie in KSHSAA contests 50-38 road loss to Fairfield in Week 3. Burrton had to since ’07. Both squads won a playoff game and forfeit a Week 5 contest versus South Haven. Burrton has lost 17 straight games dating back to a have different strengths this year. SB returns QB Trevor Rooks, a three-year starter, 66-40 season-opening home victory versus Fairfield in 2017. Burrton is 2-61 in the last seven years. who had 1,416 passing, 847 rushing and 45 total TDs. SB lost 54-8 to Osborne in the playoffs and 0-9 in 2018 / 0-6 in district / 8-Man II beat Central Christian, 70-68, in three OTs in district Heart of the Plains Coach: C.T. Young (1st year; 18th overall, 114-49) play. SB returns at least 59 percent of its rushing Assistants: N/A yards and receptions. Offense: N/A Defense: N/A O-B graduated all-state quarterback Anton Foust, Returning lettermen: N/A though veterans Kendall Steinert and Hunter Returning starters: N/A Conor Nicholl Mitchell anchor the line.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

CHASE

CHETOPA

Chetopa ended the season on a high note with a 52-30 win over Rural Vista, but there wasn’t much to celebrate for the Green Hornets in 2018. First-year head coach Rick Aldridge is hoping to install a winning mindset to a program that hasn’t finished with a winning record since going 10-1 in 2014. “First and foremost, team buy-in to what we are doing is our goal for the season,” Aldridge said. “Bring back the Chetopa pride in the town and school and get back to the playoffs.” Since going 10-1 and reaching the quarterfinals of the 8-Man Division II playoffs in 2014, Chetopa has struggled heavily. The Green Hornets are 6-27 over the past four seasons and snapped a 16-game losing streak last season that dated back to 2016. Chetopa defeated Colony-Crest, 42-6, in Week 6 last year for its first win since defeating Marais des Cygnes Valley on Sept. 30, 2016. Aldridge has six starters back on both sides of the ball and 10 returning lettermen to work with in his first year. On offense, the Green Hornets return 5-9, 200 pound junior quarterback Wyatt Vanatta. Junior Cadin Duggan can also play quarterback, but will likely start at receiver. In the backfield, seniors Cabe Johnson and Demarquis Reeves will split carries. Along the offensive line, junior Charley Cook (6-4, 210) and sophomore Tyler Johnson (5-10, 200) return from last year. 2-7 in 2018 / 0-6 in district / 8-Man II With a first-year head coach, many spots will be Northern Plains League open for competition. Aldridge admits that a lack of Coach: Jeremy Deckard (1st year) numbers will force most of his athletes to play two Assistants: Swain Williams ways. Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple “Conditioning will be critical to be able to ensure Returning lettermen: 6 we can compete through four quarters of football,” Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Dylan Miller, QB/FB/LB, 5-8, 204, Sr.; William Pray, Aldridge said. “Lastly, changing the culture back to a QB/E/FS, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Anthony “Hoss” Herrera, C/ winning attitude will be our keys to success.” NT, 5-11, 250, Jr.; Tyler Joyner, FB/G/LB/DE, 6-1, 260, Jr. Conor Nicholl 2-6 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man II Three Rivers League Coach: Rick Aldridge (1st year) Assistant: Jack Vanatta Offense: Single Wing Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Wyatt Vanatta, QB, 5-9, 200, Jr.; Cadin Duggan, WR/QB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Cabe Johnson, LB/RB, 5-8, 195, Sr.; Charley Cook, OL/WR, 6-4, 210, Jr.; Tyler Johnson, OL/WR, 5-10, 200, So.; Demarquis Reeves, RB/WR, 5-11, Sr. Gallagher Martin Jeremy Deckard gives Chase its fourth head coach in four years. Last year, Brent Schneider, now at Sterling, went 2-7, including 0-6 in district play. Chase opened 0-7 with a 42-26 road loss to Satanta in Week 5 the closest game. The Kats finished the season with back-to-back games versus Burrton and won, 56-6, and 56-8. In ’17, Chase went 2-7 with coach Travis Tesone and opened 1-5, though three of the losses were by 16, six and 20 points. In ’16, Jon Wellman, now the Nickerson head coach, completed a successful run with a 6-5 mark and the team’s first playoff victory in 30 years. Chase was 9-1 in back-to-back years under Wellman in ’14-15. Overall, Chase scored 19.6 points per contest and permitted 48.9. Two years ago, the Kats were similar at 17.1 points per game and 33 points allowed a contest. Three years ago, Chase had 43.8 points per game and 36.3 points allowed. Deckard is the middle school and high school social studies teacher. The four captains are seniors Dylan Miller, William Pray, along with juniors Anthony Herrera and Tyler Joyner. Other seniors previously on the roster include Hunter Cavender (WR/CB) and Junior Contreras (K/P/DT). Deckard said Chase’s goal is “to play November football,” and said keys include “increasing our numbers, staying healthy, and keeping students academically eligible.”

COLONY-CREST

Colony-Crest had won at least four games every year since 2012 until last season. The Lancers went 0-9 in 2018. Colony-Crest’s two most competitive games came in the final two weeks. The Lancers lost to AltoonaMidway, 36-20, and Marais des Cygnes Valley, 42-20; both games were Colony-Crest’s highest scoring on offense. The Lancers struggled on both sides of the ball. Offensively, Colony-Crest was shutout four times and held under 10 points seven times. On defense, Colony-Crest allowed at least 50 points five times and allowed at least 40 points in all but one game. Colony-Crest ranked 48th out of 52 teams in 8-Man Division II, according to PrepPowerIndex. On the bright side, the Lancers compete in a wide open District 1 with St. Paul (9-2 overall), Southern Coffey County (6-4), Marmaton Valley (3-6), AltoonaMidway (2-7), and Chetopa (2-6) and should remain competitive with the bottom half of the district. The Lancers will have to improve on both sides of the ball, but nabbing a top-four spot in that district is not out of the question. As of late July, coach Brandt Miller said he was no longer at the helm after two seasons. 0-9 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man II Three Rivers League Coach: N/A Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A

DIGHTON

Page 135

One of the hallmark stories from the 2018 football season was “The Dighton Nine.” Dighton, with just nine players, went 9-3 and advanced to the 8-Man, Division II sub-state title game. Hornet coach Ken Simon, who led Dighton to a state title appearance in 2016, captured his second Kpreps Coach of the Year honor in the last three seasons. Dighton enjoyed a remarkable year with a 1-2 start with losses to St. Francis and Hodgeman County, squads that reached at least the quarterfinals in 8-Man, Division I. Then, the Hornets won eight straight games, including a 44-36 win against Otis-Bison in the quarterfinals on a diving TD catch from David Cramer that went viral. Dighton lost 46-0 to Osborne in the sub-state game and finished fourth in the final Kpreps poll after not being ranked virtually all year. Dighton graduated many of its top players, including twins Blair and Dalton Hoffman and Cramer. Cramer (992 receiving, 131 tackles) and Blair Hoffman (1,627 passing yards, 865 rushing, 48 TDs accounted for) were both Kpreps all-state selections. It marked the second straight year Dighton had just nine players. Senior Kaden Bradstreet is the only player for 2019 that was on the team in 2017 and 2018. “Improve on a daily basis and be playing our best toward the end of the season,” Simon said of team keys. “Compete hard every Friday. Developing our underclassmen who will be forced to play. Health will be once again a huge key with a limited roster.”

9-3 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man II Conor Nicholl Northwest Kansas League Coach: Ken Simon (9th year, 52-29) Assistants: Dustin Hoffman, Ben Wilkens Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 5 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Kaden Bradstreet, TE/LB, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Marcus Rowe, RB/FS, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Tyler Walker, OL/DE, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Ariel Arevalo, OL/DE, 6-0, 250, Jr. Conor Nicholl

PO Box 346 Chase, KS 620-938-2555

DOWNS-LAKESIDE

Since 8-2 and 11-1 records in 2010 and 2011, Lakeside has not had a winning season and has not been in the playoffs since a 3-7 record and district runner-up finish in 2016. Last year, Lakeside went 2-7 with one close game, a 54-38 victory at Linn in Week 3. The Knights also defeated Tescott, 58-8, in Week 4. All of the losses came by at least 24 points. In an oddity with the new district format, the Knights finished the season with back-to-back games versus Blue Valley-Randolph and lost 52-6 and 68-0. Lakeside struggled in the passing game completing just under 37 percent of their pass attempts with 820 passing yards and a 14/29 TD/INT ratio. Graduated quarterback Caleb Hake threw all 14 of those touchdown passes, but also 27 of the interceptions. Returning junior Wyatt Eberle and returning senior Carter Brown led the team in rushing last season. Eberle had 56 carries for 217 yards and a score, while Brown delivered 84 carries for 199 yards and four TDs. All 68 catches came from non-seniors, including 24 receptions for 405 yards and seven scores from Jace Schoen in •just his freshman season. The 6-3 BRUSH ART DONLEVY LITHO • SUN GRAPHICS sophomore gives the Knights a nice target to throw to. Eberle caught 18 passes for 243 yards and two scores and Tyler Schoen made 17 receptions for 238 yards and one touchdown.

FRANKFORT

Frankfort High School cruised to a 6-0 record to start the 2018 season before succumbing to Axtell and Hanover down the stretch. Frankfort fell to Axtell once and Hanover twice in three of its last four games to end the season with a 7-3 record. Sandwiched in between those three losses was a 30-8 playoff win over St. John’s-Beloit/ Tipton — the first playoff win for Frankfort since 2011. Frankfort returns serious production from a solid team last year. If the Wildcats can get over the hump and start competing with the big boys, they should be good enough to make a run in the 8-Man Division II playoffs. “Our goals for this season are to continue the momentum from last year, compete for a league title, and make a playoff run,” head coach Nick Anderson said. For most teams, replacing running back Carson 2-7 in 2018 / 2-4 in district / 8-Man II Schreiner and his 18 total touchdowns would be a Northern Plains League lot to overcome. But the Wildcats are in fine shape as Coach: Drew Duskie (6th year, 11-35) long as Garret Dalinghaus stays healthy. Assistants: Travis Eberle Dalinghaus is the team’s best overall football player Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 on the field and in the weight room. A four-year Returning lettermen: 9 starter, Dalinghaus rushed for over 1,000 yards and Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense tallied 19 touchdowns on offense, while leading the Tyler Schoen, E/LB, 5-8, 130, So.; Carter Brown, RB/LB 5-7, 140, Sr.; Wyatt Eberle, RB/LB 6-0, 170, team with 104 tackles as a linebacker. Bussmann will also play a large role Jr.; Jace Schoen, E/DE, 6-3, 152, So.; Peyton Ellis, inBranden the offense, coming off a season in which he OL/DB, 5-9, 132, So. recorded over 1,000 all-purpose yards and 18 total Conor Nicholl touchdowns. Bussmann has experience playing

Eberle led the squad with 120 tackles last season, including seven for loss, while Brown added 48 stops. Distant cousins Jace and Tyler Schoen recorded 47 tackles apiece and Jace added two interceptions and nine passes defensed. Brown recorded four fumbles and Tyler Schoen three. Four of the Knights five returning starters are underclassmen, including three sophomores. “We have not been in the playoffs since 2016, so that is one of our goals,” Duskie said. “The other would be to win our district. We are bringing many guys back from last year but we will be a young team still. We need to get stronger and quicker during the summer to be able to compete at a high level against the opponents on our schedule next year.”

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quarterback and running back on offense, and had 62 tackles as a linebacker on defense. Paving the way for Dalinghaus and Bussmann will be all-league offensive lineman Brian Joseph, who also had 55 tackles as a defensive lineman. Junior quarterback Gavin Cornelison started the second half of the season for the Wildcats and threw for 600 yards and eight touchdowns. Expect to see Cornelison or Bussmann under center to start the season. With six starters back on each side of the ball, Frankfort has the potential to improve upon a 7-3 record. “Staying healthy will be so important for us to be successful,” Anderson said. “We also need to continue to buy-in to the culture that has been established.” 7-3 in 2018 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Nick Anderson (4th season, 16-12) Assistants: Jay Kennedy, Branton Smith, Jonathan Keating Offense: Wing Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 11 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Garret Dalinghaus, RB/LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Brian Joesph, OL/DL, 6-0, 225, Sr.; Branden Bussmann, RB/QB/LB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Cade Schreiner, DE, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Trey Estes, DE, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Gavin Cornelison, QB, 5-11, 140, Jr.; Aiden Gerstner, CB, 6-0, 140, Jr.; Bryce Stowell, DE, 5-9, 150, Jr. GM

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

Page 136

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GRAINFIELD-WHEATLAND/GRINNELL

The Thunderhawks moved back up to 8-Man, Division II last season after two years at the 6-Man ranks. W-G opened the season with a 46-0 victory versus Fairfield, and then lost eight straight games. The Thunderhawks lost 50-18 at Logan-Palco and then lost three straight contests by at least 42 points. In Week 6, W-G lost in the Gove County rivalry to Quinter, 54-20, on the road. Quinter’s victory ended a 33-game losing streak for the Bulldogs. It marked the first matchup between Quinter and W-G since 2011 and just the fifth since 2004. Quinter is 5-0 against the Thunderhawks in that span. W-G finished the year with three big losses by the 45-point margin. Overall, the Thunderhawks averaged 11.6 points per contest and permitted 46.8 a contest. The Thunder’s District 6 appears relatively balanced with Dighton, Wallace County, Greeley County, Triplains-Brewster and Quinter. Only Dighton finished with a winning record last year, though the Hornets had massive graduation losses. W-G has not captured more than three victories in a season since a 5-4 mark in 2012 and has not reached the playoffs since the schools consolidated in the mid-2000s. Grinnell made the last playoff appearance in 2002. Sophomore quarterback Trey Vincent completed 59 of 116 passes for 735 yards with a 7/6 TD/INT ratio. However, W-G rushed for just 451 yards and averaged 2.5 yards per carry. The Thunderhawks should be much improved defensively. Junior Trevor Zarybnicky led the team with 99 tackles a year ago and seven of the top eight tacklers are back. Second year coach Jesse Vincent thinks Zarybnicky may have what it takes to play collegiately. Senior Ethan Beckman delivered 48 tackles and nine TFLs, while junior Wendell Mong had 48 tackles with five TFLs, along with three fumble recoveries. 1-8 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man II Western Kansas Liberty League Coach: Jesse Vincent (2nd year, 1-8) Assistants: Will Bixenman, Josh Williams Offense: Spread Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: Trevor Zarybnicky, TE/LB, 6-3, 225, Jr.; Ethan Beckman, OL/DL, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Chris Bixenman, OL/DL, 5-10, 230, Sr.; Ryan Heier WR/DB 5-9, 140, So.; Mike Peterson, WR/LB, 6-6, 170, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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HANOVER

Hanover was an overwhelming favorite to capture its third straight 8-Man Division II title, returning a bulk of starters from its repeat title team in 2017. Such expecations can be a burden, but Hanover handled them with ease. The Wildcats posted their third straight undefeated season, going 13-0 and capping the title run with a wild 58-50 win over Osborne in the state championship game. The narrow win in the title game was one of just two contests that didn’t end via the 45-point mercy rule. The other was a 50-42 win over Axtell that decided the Twin Valley League title and in a rematch with the Eagles in the semis, Hanover rolled, 60-14. Hanover joined Scandia and Midway-Denton as the only 8-Man programs to win three straight titles and only M-D has won at least four in a row, taking five straight titles (three in DI, two in DII) from 1984-1988. In order to join that elite company, Matt Heuer’s program must almost completely reload. Graduation claimed a huge senior class that played big roles in the three straight titles, including seven starters off last year’s squad. Gone are all-class running back Carter Bruna, d-back/QB Daiken Stallbaumer and playmaker Thomas Atkins, among others. The good news is the multiple blowouts the Wildcats adminstered allowed Heuer to get his younger players plenty of reps, which should help their transition to starting roles this year. Stallbaumer accounted for nearly 2,000 yards of total offense and Bruna ran for 1,259 yards and 21 touchdowns. Junior Jacob Jueneman was Stallbaumer’s backup at quarterback last year, while senior Taegan Schwartz and junior Colin Jueneman saw time in the backfield, combining for more than 500 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns. The lone returning starter is a good one. Senior lineman Jonah Weber is a two-year starter who was a first-team all-class pick last year. He ranked third on the team in tackles with 62 and had 8.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. Though there are a lot of unknowns entering the 2019, Heuer is excited about the potential of his team. Heuer has posted a 140-25 record in his career and has shown the ability to reload after big graduation losses in the past.

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HARTFORD

The Hartford Jaguars started the 2018 season off on the right foot with a 50-12 win over Colony-Crest. The Jaguars then dropped their next four games only to go 2-2 in their final four games en route to a 3-6 record. Colten Barrett is entering his third year as head coach of Hartford after going 2-7 in 2017. Hartford only has eight returning lettermen in 2019, but with seven offensive starters and five defensive starters returning, Barrett is hoping this is the year his team tastes sustained success. “Our goals for the season are to improve our overall record, compete for a league title, win a district title, and win a playoff game,” Barrett said. The Jaguars are losing their leading passer and rusher with the graduation of quarterback Dalen Kistner. Whoever wins the starting quarterback job will have two returning receivers to throw to in Cody Thomas and Trenton Schroeder. Tight end Andrew McDiffett is another option in the passing game. Running back Shayden Sull had a solid freshman season last year and now the sophomore looks to take over as the starting running back. The Jaguars return three offensive linemen as well. Senior center Gabe Metcalfe anchors the line while guards Kristain Trujillo and Aiden Goodman do their fair share of work as well; all three returning linemen are at least 6-foot and 250 pounds. The Hartford offense averaged just over 28 points a game last season, but replacing Kistner is urgent if the Jaguars are to increase their productivity. On defense, Trujillio and Goodman hold down the defensive line, while McDiffett, Sull, and Schroeder occupy the secondary. The Hartford defense will need to make big improvements from last year. The Jaguars allowed at least 50 points on six different occasions, and it’s no coincidence Hartford went 0-6 in those games. Barrett says toughness will be the keys to his team’s success in 2019.

3-6 in 2018 / 2-3 in district / 8-Man II Lyon County League Coach: Colten Barrett (3rd year, 5-13) Assistant: Ben Dandrea Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4 13-0 in 2018 / 6-0 in district / 8M II Returning lettermen: 8 Twin Valley League Returning starters: 7 Offense, 5 Defense Coach: Matt Heuer (15th year, 140-25) Cody Thomas, WR, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Gabe Metcalfe, C, Assistants: Chris Beikmann, John Bruna 6-0, 250, Sr.; Kristain Trujillo, LG/NG, 6-0, 280, Jr.; Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Trenton Schroeder, WR/S, 5-8, 150, Jr.; Shayden Returning lettermen: 18 Sull, RB/CB, 5-10, 160, So.; Aiden Goodman, G/DE, Returning starters: 1 Offense, 1 Defense 6-0, 280, So.; Andrew McDiffett, TE/CB, 6-0, 180, Jr. Jonah Weber, OG/DE, 6-4, 270, Sr. Brent Maycock Gallagher Martin

HUTCHINSON-CENTRAL CHRISTIAN

It took one game for the Hutch-Central Christian offense to find its rhythm, but once it did, nobody could stop the Cougars. Last season, Central Christian opened the year with a disappointing 44-16 loss to Argonia/Attica. After that, the Cougars won seven of their next nine games and scored at least 50 points in every contest, with 60 points or more in six of the final nine games and 70 points or more four times. In week three the Cougars lost a wild one with South Barber, falling two points short in a 70-68 triple overtime thriller. Central Christian went 7-3 on the year and saw its season end in the second round of the 8-Man Division II playoffs to Otis-Bison, 66-52. Although offensive stats can sometimes be diluted in 8-Man football, make no mistake, the Cougars had one of the best offenses at their level. This year should be no different with a multitude of returning starters on that side of the ball, but whether or not Central Christian is a title contender comes down to its defense. “We should be able to score some points,” sixthyear head coach Lee Smith said. “We must continue to improve on our defense.” The Cougars are led by one of the best quarterbacks in the state in Caleb Lambert. Lambert is the ideal QB to run Central Christian’s Spread offense, as the dual-threat threw for 2,055 yards and 32 TDs last season and rushed for 798 yards and 22 scores. Lambert has football in his blood. He is the son of former Sterling College head coach Chuck Lambert

Hanover

and nephew to Southern Nazarene head coach Andy Lambert and Smoky Valley head coach Tim Lambert. Adam Hall should be on the receiving end of a lot of Lambert’s TD passes. He was second on the team last year with nine receiving TDs and led the team with 698 receiving yards. Hall also ran for three TDs. The Cougars also return their leading rusher, outside of Lambert, in Garrett Burns. Burns is a weight room warrior and versatile athlete who has seen success running and catching the ball. He rushed for 446 yards and 10 TDs last year, while catching seven TDs on only 14 receptions. Both Hall and Lambert were all-state by Kpreps. Defensively, the Cougars will be led by linebacker Dawson Urwiller, who recorded 78 tackles and two INTs last year. Burns was also all-league at LB. Smith expects about 20 players out for football, but only one of them will be over 200 pounds. But what they lack in size, they will make up for in speed. 7-3 in 2018 / 5-1 in district / 8-Man II Heart of the Plains League Coach: Lee Smith (6th year, 31-18; 11th overall, 55-42) Assistant: Tony Urwiller Offense: Spread Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Caleb Lambert, QB/DB, Sr.; Garrett Burns, RB/LB, Sr.; Adam Hall, WR/DB, Sr.; Dawson Urwiller, WB/ LB, Jr.; Deonis Coon, WR/DB, Sr.; Cayden Unruh, OL/DL, Sr. Gallagher Martin

HIGHLAND-DONIPHAN WEST

To say the Highland-Doniphan West football team had an up and down year in 2018 would be an understatement. The Mustangs began the year with three straight losses by a combined 120 points. Doniphan West then evened its record at 3-3 over the next three games with wins over Onaga, Linn, and Wetmore by a combined 92 points. Poetically, the Mustangs ended their season with three straight blowout losses. Every game Doniphan West played last year was a blowout with the closest game being a 16-point win at Wetmore. In his first year as head coach, Perry Smith will be looking to instill consistency in a team that returns six starters on both sides of the ball. “Staying healthy and how quickly we understand the new system are our keys to success,” Smith said. Consistency is something the Doniphan West program has lacked for awhile. Smith is West’s sixth different coach this decade. Jeff Savage coached the Mustangs last year. Before him, Rob Randall spent two years at the helm. This is also just the second year Doniphan West has been in 8-Man as the Mustangs made the transition from 11-Man football in 2018. Trent Spiker started at quarterback last year as a freshman for the Mustangs and will likely be the starter heading into his sophomore year. Spiker is one of four returning sophomores who started as freshmen: linemen Cooper Clark and Riley Schunemann, and running back Hunter Smith did the same. The Mustangs will rely on seniors Cooper Jenson and Nathan Howerton, along with junior Kaleb Ridout, for leadership. Doniphan West only graduated two seniors from last year, one of them being all-league wide receiver/linebacker Tucker Holzhey. Like most teams, Doniphan West will be taking it day by day in 2019. “Our goal for the season is to get better every day,” Smith said. 3-6 in 2018 / 2-4 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Perry Smith (1st year) Assistants: David Johnson, Derek Shelton, Skylar Allen Offense: Wing T Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Cooper Jenson, E, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Nathan Howerton, RB/DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Kaleb Ridout, OL/DL, 5-9, 180, Jr.; Cooper Clark, OL/DL, 6-0, 200, So.; Riley Schunemann, OL/DL, 6-0, 190, So.; Hunter Smith, RB/DB, 5-7, 140, So.; Trent Spiker, QB/DB, 6-0, 170, So. Gallagher Martin

INGALLS

Last year, Ingalls had its worst season since a 2-7 mark in 2009. Since then, the Bulldogs went 4-5, 5-4, 5-4, 7-3, 10-2, 9-2, 8-2 and 8-3 before the six-win dropoff last fall. Before a 3-3 mark in districts last fall, Ingalls was 19-0 in district play the last four years, and 23-1 in the past five. Ingalls averaged 41.7 points a contest but permitted 50.7 points a game. The year prior, Ingalls had 41.2 points a contest and permitted 25.2. Ingalls played several wild games, including a 90-82 loss at Minneola in Week 7, 10 points off the all-time single game record for combined points of 182 set by Onaga and Valley Falls in 2016. Ingalls’ 82 points in that game did tie the Logan team of 2007 for the most points in a loss. They also lost 77-42 to Spearville, 70-20 to Stafford and 76-30 to Hutch-Central Christian. The Bulldogs were dominant in their three victories scoring 58 points each in wins over Chase (58-12), Bucklin (58-8) and Satanta (58-12). Ingalls only had one returning senior starter last year and were very junior heavy with just two overall seniors on the roster. This season, Ingalls has eight starters back. Running back Tate Davis played in eight games and finished with 600 yards rushing and 10 scores. Quarterback Timothy Gillen delivered 500 yards rushing, 500 passing and 21 total touchdowns. Versatile athlete Easton Irsik had 300 receiving yards and eight scores.

3-6 in 2018 / 3-3 in district / 8-Man II Southern Plains Iroquois Activities Association Coach: Vestal Teeter (4th year, 17-11) Assistants: N/A Offense: Wing T Defense: 3-3 Returning starters: 8 Offense, 8 Defense Timothy Gillen, QB/LB, Sr.; Tate Davis, RB/DE, Jr.; Easton Irsik, RB/CB, Sr.; Devin Doll, OL/DT, Sr.; Nick Beavers, OL, Sr.; Ethan Mai, OL/DT, Sr.; Cristian Cohn, Jr.; WR/CB; Antonio Escobedo, TE, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

KENSINGTON-THUNDER RIDGE

One of the state’s biggest turnarounds occurred with Thunder Ridge and alum Joel Struckhoff, in his first season as head coach. Struckhoff, the all-time 8-Man leader in rushing yards, TDs and points, led TR to the 2011 8-Man II title. Thunder Ridge had just three total wins in the last three years before 2018. TR enjoyed a plus-three improvement, tied for ninth-best in all of 8-Man football. The Longhorns averaged 30.2 points a contest and allowed 29.9 a game. TR’s plus-12.2 points per game improvement from 2017 was 14th-best in 8-Man. The decrease in points allowed per game by 13 from 2017, ranked No. 16 in 8-Man football. Thunder Ridge took fourth in District 5. Osborne, the state runner-up, went 5-0 to win the district. Northern Valley, Sylvan-Lucas and TR all finished 3-2, though NV was runner-up based on points. TR opened the season with a pair of shutouts before a 53-6 loss to Hill City. After a 24-14 win versus Northern Valley, Sylvan-Lucas delivered a big comeback to beat the Longhorns, 52-48. Then, TR won at Logan-Palco, 40-38, in overtime, and beat Wilson, 50-6, before two losses to Osborne and Dighton by at least 36 points. Brandon Grauerholz, who missed 2017 with injury, graduated after he earned Kpreps all-state honors with 66 tackles, six interceptions, 874 rushing yards, 412 receiving yards and 18 total TDs. This season, Reece Struckhoff, cousin to Joel, could breakout after he missed 2018 because of transfer rules after going to Stockton. After a busy camp season he has earned scholarship offers from junior college and NAIA programs with DII interest. Together with returning running backs Colton Davis (590 yards, 5 TDs) and Joseph Ferguson (175 yards, 2 TDs) the Longhorn running game should be in solid hands, though Ferguson could play on the line. Junior QB Jacob Barnes is also back after completing 27 of 61 passes for 624 yards with a 6/6 TD/INT ratio. Only four total catches return, three by Davis. Returning linemen Tyler Krueger and Andrew Glennemeier give the Longhorns nice size up front. “To win district and improve our overall record,” coach Struckhoff said of goals for the season. “To be efficient with the football on offense and eliminate turnovers. Defensively, we will try to limit the long runs and improve in third and long situations.” 5-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Joel Struckhoff (2nd year, 5-4) Assistants: Blane Hrabe, Dillon Coomes Offense: Spread/I Defense: 3-3/3-2 Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Jacob Barnes, QB, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Tyler Krueger, OL/ DE, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Joseph Ferguson, RB/LB, 5-9, 195, Sr.; Andrew Glennemeier, OL/DL, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Colton Davis, RB/LB, 5-10, 170, Sr. Conor Nicholl

KIOWA-SOUTH BARBER

South Barber is 6-3, 9-2, 9-2 and 9-1-1 in Matt Cantrell’s four seasons as head coach. Last year, SB had a 70-68 triple-OT comeback victory versus Hutch-Central Christian in Week 3. SB traveled to Otis-Bison in a key Week 6 non-district matchup where both teams were ranked in the top-five. The game was moved up to 5 p.m. because of weather. The teams played to a 36-36 tie at halftime. Heavy rains came to Otis and the game was called at intermission as an official tie. It marked the third official tie from ’06-18 in KSHSAA football. SB lost to Osborne, 54-8, in the postseason and finished fifth in 8-Man scoring at 53.1 points per contest and permitted 21.5 points a game. Cantrell has set goals to “win district and make a deeper run in playoffs.” SB is 16-0 in districts the last three years. Last year, South Barber passed for 133 yards a game and rushed for 167 yards a contest. Returning senior Trevor Rooks completed 101 of 168 passes for 1,416 yards with an 28/6 TD/INT ratio. As a sophomore, Rooks completed 74 of 129 passes for 1,048 yards with a 23/6 TD/INT ratio. As well, Rooks led the team with 127 carries for 847 yards and 17 scores. Neal Gugelmeyer, a standout since his sophomore year with three consecutive seasons of at least 500 rushing yards, graduated after he had 96 carries for 561 yards and 16 scores. He also had 38 catches for 401 yards – both teamhighs – with seven receiving scores. However, the next three receivers all return. Senior Gage Cantrell had 25 catches for 276 yards and five scores, while junior Emilio Perez had 24 catches for 466 yards and nine TDs, the latter two leading the team. As a freshman, Caden Rathgeber delivered 13 catches for 190 yards and five scores. SB committed 13 turnovers but was plus-18 in turnover margin after plus-11 and plus-15 in ’16 and ’17, respectively. Rooks and Perez both picked off three passes. “Lost some good seniors last season in some key spots,” Cantrell said. “Will have to have some younger players step up and fill those spots. We will have five seniors that need to lead the way and continue the tradition and expectations that we have for this program.” 9-1-1 in 2018 / 6-0 in district / 8-Man II Heart of the Plains League Coach: Matt Cantrell (5th year, 33-8-1) Assistant: Berton Walz Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Trevor Rooks, QB/LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Gage Cantrell, RB/LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Zane Lyons, OL/DL, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Emilio Perez, WR/DB, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Antonio Vasquez, 6-0, 225, So.; Caden Rathgeber, 5-4, 125, So. Conor Nicholl

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LINN

Ron Smith’s first year at Linn featured plenty of growing pains. The Bulldogs started the season 0-5 and finished the year 1-8; a 48-6 win over Tescott in Week 6 the lone bright spot. But with eight returning starters on offense and seven on D, the Bulldogs should be bigger, faster, stronger and better in 2019. “We are looking to be a lot stronger in all phases with returning experience,” Smith said. The Bulldogs were not exceptional on offense, but defense is where Linn needs to improve the most. The Bulldogs allowed at least 47 points in all eight losses and gave up 51.4 points per game in 2018. Cornerback Ricardo Cardenas is coming off an excellent junior season in which he led the team with 85 tackles. The lone senior starter Linn must replace, Joseph Trumble, accounted for 84 tackles. The Bulldogs did not do a good job of putting pressure on the QB or getting stops behind the LOS last season. As a team, Linn had five tackles for loss and five sacks. Senior nose tackle Kyle Richardson led the team with two sacks last year. “We need to improve defensively to eliminate the big plays, which is difficult in 8-Man,” Smith said. Last season’s offense lived through Trumble at running back. Trumble rushed for 738 yards and 14 touchdowns. Replacing that production falls on

Cardenas, senior fullback Tyler Ohlde and sophomore running back Kevin Alvarodo, all of whom had at least 150 rushing yards and three TDs last season. Senior Jace Schaefer starts at quarterback where he threw for 285 yards and two touchdowns last season. Schaefer wasn’t asked to throw the ball much last year, but did complete 58 percent of his passes with only one interception. “Our weakness is our depth and size with only 14 players,” Smith said. “Conditioning and health are always important.” 1-8 in 2018 / 1-5 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Ron Smith (2nd year, 1-8) Assistant: Dalton Haist Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 8 Offense, 7 Defense Jace Schaefer, QB/DE/P, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Ricardo Cardenas, RB/CB/K, 5-7, 150, Sr.; Kevin Alvarodo, RB/CB, 5-11, 150, So.; Tyler Ohlde, FB/DE, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Daniel York, WR/LB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Spencer Ohlde, G, 5-8, 170, Jr.; Keaton Bargman, G/LB, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Kyle Richardson, C/NG, 6-2, 300, Sr. Gallagher Martin

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LANGDON-FAIRFIELD

Entering his fourth year as head coach of the Fairfield Falcons, Heath Hewitt has two wins. Last season, the Falcons snapped a 19-game losing streak with a 50-38 win over Burrton in Week 3. However, Fairfield didn’t win a game the remainder of the season and is now on a six-game losing streak. Both the Fairfield offense and defense will need to be improved for the Falcons to see success this season. The offense was shut out three times, held to single digits five times, and averaged 13 points a game for the season. Defensively, the Falcons allowed at least 30 points in all but one game. Opponents averaged 49 points a game against Fairfield last season. The Falcons have five starters back from both sides of the ball, so perhaps those numbers can be improved in 2019. “Our team goal is to build our young guys,” Hewitt said. The Falcons return their leading passer and rusher in quarterback Keegan Haumont. Haumont threw for 511 yards with nine touchdowns while rushing for 370 yards and three TDs. Look for Haumont to try and improve on 10 INTs and a 37 percent completion percentage heading into his senior season. No other returning player on the roster had a passing or rushing touchdown last season. The Falcons graduated their top reciever, but junior Jose Zapien and sophomore Cody Canady both had one receiving touchdown last season. Defensively, Haumont led the team with 52 tackles and 13.5 TFLs. Canady had a great freshman year and was second on the team with 34 tackles. The Falcons compete in 8-Man II, District 7 where powers South Barber and Hutch-Central Christian captured the top two spots in the district last year and will again be favorites. Last year, South Haven (4-2 in district, 4-5 overall) and Pretty Prairie (3-3 in district, 3-6 overall) secured third and fourth in the district. Fairfield finished fifth out of six teams, one win behind Norwich and one win ahead of Burrton. 1-8 in 2018 / 1-5 in district / 8-Man II Heart of the Plains League Coach: Heath Hewitt (4th year, 2-25) Assistant: Chris Hewitt Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense

LEROY-SOUTHERN COFFEY CO.

For the first time since going 5-4 in 2008, Southern Coffey County enjoyed a winning season. The Titans went 6-4, finished second in 8-Man Division II, District 1, and picked up a playoff win. It was the best season for the program this decade, and the Titans were able to get it done on both sides of the ball. Southern Coffey County scored at least 36 points in seven of 10 games, including an 84-point performance in a win over Hartford. The Titans also put 60 on the board in their playoff win over Wakefield. On defense, the Titans went from Sept. 21 through Oct. 12 only allowing a combined six points. Those four games all came against district opponents as the Titans outscored their opposition during that stretch 204-6. The only district loss Southern Coffey County suffered was to St. Paul, 46-36. The Titans’ season came to an end in the second round of the playoffs against Waverly. Southern Coffey County ranked 13th out of 52 teams in 8-Man Division II, according to PrepPowerIndex. For the season, the Titans scored 434 points compared to 282 points allowed. Outside of St. Paul, the Titans look as good as any team in their district. St. Paul (9-2 overall), Marmaton Valley (3-6) and Altoona-Midway (2-7) are the other three teams from District 1 that made the playoffs last season.

6-4 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man II Lyon County League Coach: N/A Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Gallagher Martin

LOGAN/PALCO

Logan-Palco had major graduation losses after 2017, mainly two-time first-team all-state running back David Thompson, along with quarterback Riley Allen and standout tackler Blake Bouchey. The Trojans had a three-win decrease and are now 5-4, 4-5, 7-2, 7-2, 6-3 and 3-6 in the cooperative agreement. Last season, L-P had two losses by a combined 12 points. The Trojans lost 32-22 at Triplains-Brewster in the season opener, then defeated Wheatland-Grinnell, 50-18. After a 54-6 loss at Wichita County, L-P defeated Wilson, 52-6. Four losses ensued, all by 45 points, except for a 40-38 overtime loss against Thunder Ridge in Week 6. The Trojans ended the season with a 64-24 victory versus Quinter. L-P averaged 30.2 points a game and allowed 38.4 points a contest. L-P returns both of its quarterbacks that attempted more than one pass with Dylan Van Laeys (43 percent passing, 648 yards, 9/6 TD/INT) and Zach Jansonius (58 percent, 210 yards, 3/1 TD/ INT). L-P returns all but 36 of its rushing yards and 75 percent of the receptions are back. Junior Micah Thompson was second on the team

and tops among returners with 66 stops. L-P committed 18 turnovers and was even in turnover margin. The Trojans are in District 5 with Osborne, Northern Valley, Thunder Ridge and Sylvan-Lucas, all had winning seasons last year. “Make playoffs and go as far as we can,” coach Mike Jenner said of team goals. “Stay healthy! Put ourselves in a position to win every game.” 3-6 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man II Western Kansas Liberty League Coach: Mike Jenner (5th year, 23-13) Assistants: Michael Delimont Offense: Power Defense: 3-3 Stack Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Dylan Van Laeys, QB, 6-2, 175, So.; Micah Thompson, TE/CB, 5-11, 180, Jr.; Jed Peace, C/DE, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Nate Cruz, TE/NG, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Ian Sparks, FB/LB, 5-10, 190, Jr.; Cody Brown, TB/LB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Zach Jansonius, G/CB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Josh Uhland, TB, 5-10, 175, So.; Connor Knipp, OG/ DE, 6-0, 180, So. Conor Nicholl

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LOST SPRINGS-CENTRE

MANKATO-ROCK HILLS

MELVERN-MARAIS DES CYGNES

The Centre-Lost Springs Cougars beat the teams they were supposed to, but failed to take the next step and beat any teams above .500 in 2018. All seven of Centre’s wins last season came against teams that finished with a losing record. The Cougars lost to Canton-Galva (10-2), Waverly (9-2), and St. Paul (9-2) all by at least 26 points. The loss to St. Paul came in the second round of the playoffs. Regardless, Centre enjoyed a successful season last year which included a 4-1 district record, a 4-1 Wheat State League record, and a playoff win over Marmaton Valley. Centre is replacing three starters on both sides of the ball, but are led by five seniors and a junior who all return from last year’s 7-3 season. Kelly Steiner enters his 10th season at Centre, split across multiple stints, with a 46-37 overall record. With a solid senior class in place, he believes the players around them will be keys. “Our goals for the season are to develop younger guys, and get better each week,” Steiner said The Cougars must replace two All-Wheat State League first team members in Xavier Espinoza and Kyle Naerebout, but return first team all-league running back/linebacker Jensen Riffel. The Cougars also return all-leaguer Aidan Svoboda at end and safety. Svoboda is joined at end and in the secondary by junior Lane Methvin. At 6-2, 225, senior Braxton Smith will play quarterback and linebacker for the Cougars. Dalton Stika is the only returning linemen, and at 6-2, 205, expect the senior to lead the offensive and defensive lines. With five returning starters and 10 returning lettermen, Centre has the returning talent to have another successful year in 2019. The Cougars do not have an abundance of depth, so staying away from injuries will be a big key. “We must stay healthy,” Steiner said. “Last year we had a lot of injuries and with small numbers injuries can change what your team is able to do.”

From 2008-2018, Rock Hills has had just one losing season with marks of 5-3, 7-3, 5-4, 7-3, 11-2, 4-5, 5-4, 7-3, 7-2 and then back-to-back 8-2 records. Last year, RH opened third in the Kpreps preseason poll but finished just outside the rankings. The Grizzlies encountered some early season injuries and lost, 68-0, at three-time defending state champion Hanover in Week 3 in a high-profile contest. RH fell 80-30 at home to Axtell in the playoffs; Axtell finished second in the final Kpreps poll. Colby Hamel, a Lakin graduate and former Fort Hays lineman, takes over as head coach. Rock Hills graduated Zane Colson, a Kansas Wesleyan signee and two-time first team all-state player. Colson had an exceptional career, including 175 carries for 1,492 yards and 24 scores last season, along with 147 tackles. Quarterback Dereck Gillett, a Benedictine football signee, was hurt part of last season and only completed 22 of 45 passes for 468 yards with an 8/3 TD/INT ratio. Rylee Whelchel is one of the top athletes in 8-Man football. He battled injury in 2018, though had another big season with 37 rushes for 405 yards and nine touchdowns. He caught 12 passes for 298 yards and six scores. In his career, Whelchel has scored 42 offensive touchdowns on 135 offensive touches. He has four career special teams scores, including three last year. Hamel said Jerrod Gillett is expected to be one of underclassmen competing at quarterback, while Whelchel and Higer should carry the load in the run game. Three offensive starters return with senior Sam Underwood, junior Caden Slate and sophomore Buck Luedke. Senior Cheyenne Mohler is back at tight end. RH returns five defensive starters. Hamel said the team’s strengths are speed, work ethic and numbers, and concerns are replacing “a couple 3-4 year starters,” along with “depth on both sides.”

A young Marais des Cygnes Valley team with freshmen starters on both sides of the ball endured a 1-8 season with plenty of growing pains last year. The Trojans scored their first touchdown of the season in week three and picked up their first win in the season finale — a 42-20 victory over winless Colony-Crest. But there is a hint of optimism surrounding the program this season. With seven returning starters on both sides of the ball, including three seniors, the Trojans are looking for multiple wins in a season for the first time since 2015. Not only was 2015 the last time MdCV made the 8-Man playoffs, it is the last year the program had a winning record. In fact, the Trojans have recorded exactly one win in each of the last three years. This season could be a sign of progress. Lewis Whitson is entering his third year as head coach, and he says this year is important for the future of the program. “In my opinion, this will be a very telling season for us,” Whitson said. “Young men will either step up and look to compete, or they will cower.” Senior Koby Vanderpool will be looked upon for leadership. Vanderpool was named Second Team All-Lyon County League as a linebacker, and will be a handful to guard as a tight end. Fellow seniors Garrett Holloway and Frank Warner will also help lead the Trojans, while five sophomores are returning for Marais des Cygnes Valley on offense and defense. Whitson believes the talent is there, but even with all the returning starters the Trojans are still a young team. “While we return a lot, we are still very young and even with the experience we gained last year,” Whitson said. “We have some kids with skills to be very good competitors, but we have to have the work ethic and attitude needed to get us there. Physically and mentally we have to be tougher and develop more grit than we’ve had the past two seasons.”

7-3 in 2018 / 4-1 in district / 8-Man II Wheat State League Coach: Kelly Steiner (10th year, 46-37) Assistants: Jason Stika, Tim Vinduska Offense: Balanced Defense: 3-5 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 5 Offense, 5 Defense Jensen Riffel, RB/LB, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Braxton Smith, QB/LB, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Dalton Stika, OL/DL, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Aidan Svoboda, E/S, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Lane Methvin, E/C, 6-0, 160, Jr. Gallagher Martin

8-2 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Colby Hamel (1st year) Assistants: Zach Duffy, Stuart Vance Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 10 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Mason Higer, RB/DE, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Caden Slate, OL/DL, 6-1, 275, Jr.; Sam Underwood, OL/DL, 6-0, 275, Sr.; Cheyenne Mohler, TE/DL, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Buck Luedke, OL/LB, 6-0, 220, So; Rylee Whelchel, RB/DB, 5-10, 185, Sr. Conor Nicholl

1-8 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man II Lyon County League Coach Lewis Whitson (3rd year, 2-16; 7th overall, 24-33) Assistants: Lee Baldwin, Bill Block, Kevin Schultz Offense: Single Split, Wing Defense: Offset 33 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Koby Vanderpool, TE/LB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Garrett Holloway, TE/DE, 6-3, 195, Sr.; Max Davis, RB, 5-10, 155, So.; Wyatt Lingenfelter, RB/DB/OLB, 5-10, 155, So.; Chisolm Woodson, OL/OLB, 5-7, 175, So.; So.; Cole Lacey, QB/DB, 6-1, 160, So.; Frank Warner, DL, 6-4, 280, Sr. Gallagher Martin

MORAN-MARMATON VALLEY

After three seasons coach Gavin Cole makes way for assistant Garret Ericson as the new head coach of the Wildcats. Cole finished one win over .500 in his three seasons with a record of 14-13. Last season, Marmaton Valley found the end zone,

scoring at a 26.6 points per game clip, better than almost half the teams in 8-Man, Division II. But it was the defense that left the Wildcats in a lurch, allowing almost 36 points an outing, including 50 points or more four times. Still, the Wildcats were nearly on the winning side of the ledger with a 30-22 loss to Oswego - an eventual 6-3 team - in Week 2, and a 32-28 loss to 7-3 Centre in a Week 9 bracket game. Marmaton Valley finished third in 8-Man II, District 1, a district that could shape up similarly in 2019 with St. Paul the likely favorite and Altoona-Midway, Chetopa and Colony-Crest a combined 4-22 last season.

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While 8-Man teams generally can fluctuate wins and losses due to personnel and roster size, perhaps no one has had bigger ups and downs than the Wildcats. Since 2006, Minneola is 3-7, 6-4, 7-3, 9-1, 0-9, 4-5, 8-2, 2-7, 9-2, 7-3, 6-4, 1-7 and again a three-win jump last year to 4-5. The quarterfinals runs in ’14-15 are the best for the school since 1980. Last year, Minneola was in District 8, finished in fifth place and did not reach the postseason. The Wildcats opened 0-3 with all losses by the 45-point margin, and then beat Norwich, 58-20. After a 58-12 loss to Otis-Bison, the Wildcats defeated Chase (48-0), Ingalls (92-80), lost to Bucklin, 48-42, and beat Fairfield, 74-28. Overall, Minneola averaged 39.1 points a contest but permitted 44. Its 26-point per game offensive improvement from 2017 ranked third in all of 8-Man football. The Wildcats’ plus-3 win increase tied for ninth in all of 8-Man. This season, Minneola has set goals to be in the top-two of the district, get better every game as a team, be physical on the line and win the turnover battle every Friday. Last season, Brayton Dewell, as a freshman, threw all the team’s passes and completed 24 of 61 for 334 yards with a 6/6 TD/ INT ratio. Jeramy Pfaff graduated after he rushed 239 times for 1,915 yards and 27 scores. Returning senior Sebastian Colbert, in just four games, had 43 carries for 482 yards and nine scores, while Dewell rushed 77 times for 298 yards and five TDs. Minneola committed 14 turnovers and was even in turnover margin. Dewell was second in tackles with 52 stops. 4-5 in 2018 / 2-4 in district / 8-Man II Southern Plains Iroquois Activities Association Coach: Regio Hahn (8th year, 40-29) Assistants: James Temaat, Pat Williams, Brandon Cole Offense: Double Tight Defense: 4-3 Returning lettermen: 14 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Tuck Lang, QB/FS, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Bryton Lantz, RB/ LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Collin Berger, TE/DE, 6-5, 175, Sr.; Sebastian Colbert, RB/LB, 5-9, 158, Sr.; Brayton Dewell, TE/LB, 5-10, 230, So.; Colton Hahn, C/DL, 5-9, 191, So.; Nathan Renner, OL/DL, 5-10, 234, Jr.; Nathan Esplund, OL/DL, 6-3, 260, Jr.; Blake Boyd, LB, 6-2, 170, So.; Quentor Shelor, TE, 6-2, 195, Jr. Conor Nicholl

NORWICH

After finishing above .500 for consecutive seasons in 2016 and 2017, Norwich took a step back and finished 2-7 in 2018. The Eagles began the year 0-5 and were held scoreless until Week 3. After the 0-5 start, the Eagles won two of three but ended the season with a loss to Bucklin. Norwich’s wins came over Burrton and Fairfield by 48 points a piece. The Eagles return seven of eight starters on both sides of the ball. Norwich is also in a manageable district and was a win away from a playoff spot last year. While South Barber and Hutch-Central Christian will likely continue to dominate District 7, South Haven and Pretty Prairie both finished below .500 and made the playoffs. Norwich lost to Pretty Prairie, 28-20, which ultimately decided the final playoff spot in the district. 3-6 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / Starting in the trenches, senior Ethan Poe will 8-Man II anchor both the offensive and defensive lines. Poe Three Rivers League Coach: Garret Ericson was a All-Heart of the Plains lineman for the Eagles Assistants: N/A last season and is one of two returners along the Offense: N/A Defense: N/A lines. Returning lettermen: N/A The Eagles also return dual-threat senior quarterReturning starters: back Blake Allender, while junior Bradey McIntire N/A Offense, N/A Defense is listed at running back, but he also saw time at John Baetz quarterback last season. The Eagles feature a balanced rushing attack between Allender and McIntire, while senior

running back Luke Hilger will also receive his fair share of carries. On the perimeter, senior Carson Denning and sophomore Chance Hilger return at wide receiver. On defense, Allender, Denning, Chance Hilger, and Luke Hilger are all back in the secondary. The Eagles may need to develop a couple linebackers, but should be strong in the secondary and on the defensive line. Fifth-year head coach Mike Wilmott is ready to rebound from a dissapointing 2018 season. “We have high expectations and expect to be more competitive this year,” Wilmott said. 2-7 in 2018 / 2-4 in district / 8-Man II Heart of the Plains Coach: Mike Wilmott (5th year) Assistant: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Blake Allender, QB/DB, Sr.; Luke Hilger, RB/DB, Sr.; Ethan Poe, OL/DL, Sr.; Carson Denning, WR/ DB, Sr.; Bradey McIntire, RB/DL, Jr.; Judson Hibbs, OL/DL, So.; Chance Hilger, WR/DB, So. Gallagher Martin

Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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ONAGA

A 3-6 record may not seem like a big step, but it was for Onaga. After posting just three wins since moving to 8-Man football in 2016, the Buffaloes matched that total last year in Ben Kolterman’s first as head coach of the program. The transition was a little slow going as the Buffaloes dropped their first six games, including a 54-48 loss to Valley Falls in the opener after beating the Dragons each of the past two seasons. But after the 0-6 start, Onaga finished strong, beating Tescott, Wetmore and Linn to close the season on a threegame winning streak. Onaga should be able to build off that momentum and carry it over into the 2019 season. Seven starters are back for the Buffaloes with graduation only claiming five players off last year’s team. The bulk of the experience will be on the line with only one lineman graduating. Seniors Kameron Henneberg, Tommy Kaberline and Ethan Schlegel are three-year starters and helped lead an offense that averaged 25 points per game last year. The key to success will be how well Kolterman can reload at the skill spots. Quarterback KC Koelzer and backs Quinton Norris, Nathaniel Hayes and end Aaron Schwartz are gone, taking with them most of last year’s offensive production. Seniors Ethan Powell and Trenton Cott and sophomores Rilyn Mayginnes and Jason Abitz saw spot starting duty last year and will be asked to take on much bigger roles this season. Onaga scored 36 or more points in all three victories, but still wasn’t quite ready to hang with the big boys of the Twin Valley League, getting outscored 166-6 by Hanover, Axtell and Frankfort. The Buffaloes will see those three again in a four-week span early in the season, all games also counting toward district standings. 3-6 in 2018 / 1-5 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Ben Kolterman (2nd year, 3-6) Assistants: Ryan Noel, Will Kolterman Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Trenton Cott, E/DE, 6-2, 170, Sr.; Kameron Henneberg, OG/FB/DE, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Ethan Powell, RB/S, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Ethan Schlegel, OL/DL, 5-9, 200, Sr.; Tommy Kaberline, OL/DL, 5-9, 200, Sr.; Rilyn Mayginnes, RB/LB, 5-10, 165, So.; Jason Abitz, E/ LB, 6-2, 165, So. Brent Maycock

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OSBORNE

Osborne has been known for three things in its 8-Man tenure: High-octane offenses, state title game berths and coaching changes. 2018 was no different. Osborne averaged 56.3 points per game, thirdbest in all of 8-Man football, and finished 11-2 with an 8-Man, Division II state runner-up showing to Hanover. The Bulldogs delivered a huge comeback and fell, 58-50, in the highest scoring 8-Man championship game in history. Brandon Wise left after one season as head coach to take the offensive coordinator position with El Dorado. Osborne had a bevy of Kpreps all-state players, including QB Darnell Holloway, a Fort Hays signee who rushed for 1,616 yards, passed for 992 and delivered 46 scores. His brother, Darrien, will return for his senior year after all-state running back honors with 1,574 yards, 267 receiving yards and 36 TDs. Offensive lineman Jordan Wherry and linebacker Kade Miller both graduated following Kpreps recognition and signed to play Tabor College basketball and Bethel College football, respectively. Coach Steve Tiernan, who was last at Solomon and led the Gorillas to an 8-Man, Division I runner-up finish last fall, previously coached the Bulldogs from ’11-14. John Scarbrough coached the team in ’15, followed by Cullen Riner in ’16-17 and Wise in ’18. Osborne won a state title with Tiernan in ’13 and Riner in ’16, and also was in the sub-state final in ’10, ’11 and ’14 and the quarterfinals in ’17. Since Osborne moved to 8-Man before 2010, the Bulldogs are 86-18 and average 52 points a contest. In ’13 and ’16, Osborne set, and then broke the 8-Man single season scoring record with 760 and 764 points, respectively. Tiernan also captured titles with Baileyville in ’08 and ’10 and is 3-4 all-time in title game appearances. He went 39-7 at Osborne and 32-12 with Solomon and stands at 161-32 overall, according KDNS broadcaster Dusty Dienes. The younger Holloway is one of 8-Man’s top players with more than 3,000 career rushing yards, and running back Mason Schurr returns after he ran for 855 yards and 11 scores as a freshman. Steele Wolters and Vaughn Stull are returning starters for a team that had just 13 players last year. 11-2 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Steve Tiernan (1st year; 19th overall, 161-32) Assistants: N/A Offense: Multiple Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Darrien Holloway, RB/S, Sr.; Steele Wolters, RG/S, Sr.; Vaughn Stoll, WR/CB, Sr.; Mason Schurr, RB/ CB, So. Conor Nicholl

QUINTER

Quinter had several close games early last season but still started 0-5. In Week 2, the Bulldogs fell to Atwood, 50-44. In Week 4, Quinter lost, 36-28, in overtime to Triplains-Brewster. In Week 6, the Bulldogs defeated Wheatland-Grinnell, 54-20, in the Gove County rivalry. Quinter ended a 33-game losing streak with the victory, its first win since a 54-34 victory against Logan-Palco on Oct. 10, 2014. It marked the first matchup between the teams since ’11 and just the fifth since ’04 for two teams separated by less than 15 miles on I-70. Quinter is 5-0 in the series since ’04. Quinter is again in 8-Man II, District 6. Dighton captured the district, but Wallace County, Greeley County and Triplains-Brewster finished 3-2 in district. Quinter went 1-4 in district, while W-G was 0-5. All of Quinter’s passes return with 355 yards and

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a 4/7 TD/INT ratio. All but 10 of its 1,244 rushing yards were from underclassmen. Senior Kasen Ostmeyer had 139 carries for 559 yards and six TDs, while junior Tucker Gillespie had 108 carries for 486 yards and eight scores. Quinter committed 17 turnovers and was minus-5 in turnover margin. Junior Dusty Pister led with 94 tackles and 2.5 TFLs. Gillespie tallied 74 tackles, and Ostmeyer had 53 stops. “Continue to improve each day,” coach Micah Roehl said of keys. “Compete in every game. We need to play fundamentally sound football at every position. Everyone must be great at their role. As with any team we will need to stay healthy as well.”

OTIS-BISON

Otis-Bison started the season fourth in the Kansas Pregame poll and ended fifth in the Kpreps poll. However, the Cougars’ 8-2-1 season provided multiple seminal and quirky moments in 2018. In Week 1, O-B lost at rival Victoria, 28-14, when standout quarterback Anton Foust missed the second half with cramps. After a month of dominant victories, O-B faced South Barber in a key Week 6 non-district matchup. The game was moved up to 5 p.m. because of weather. The teams played to a 36-36 tie at halftime. Heavy rains came to Otis and the game was called at intermission as an official tie. It marked the third official tie from ’06-18 in KSHSAA football. The half had 680 combined yards, five turnovers, a kick return touchdown and 0 of 6 from South Barber on two-point conversions. A month later, also at Otis, O-B defeated HutchCentral Christian, 66-52, in the playoffs. Central Christian ran 101 plays for 496 yards and recovered two onside kicks to start the second half. O-B got 19 carries for 291 yards and seven TDs from Anton Foust, and Seth Hoopingarner had 14 carries for 114 yards and two TDs. All of the Cougars’ 405 yards came on the ground. The following week, O-B lost at Dighton, 44-36, when the Hornets scored the game-winning TD on an acrobatic catch by David Cramer on a long fourth down. Video of the catch went viral on social media. O-B, which easily won District 8, enjoyed a Kpreps all-state season from Foust, who rushed for 1,325 yards, passed for 715, accounted for 46 scores and delivered 61 tackles with two INTS. DL Luke Higgason graduated after he was all-state with 58 tackles, 12 TFLs and six sacks. This season, Hoopingarner, who played well as the backup, could move to starting QB. Hunter Mitchell will enter his third year as a starter on the line. O-B was top-nine in 8-Man in scoring offense and defense at 49.3 ppg and 17.8 points allowed. “Our goal is to win our district and be at our best come week nine in the playoffs,” coach Travis Starr said. “We will rely heavily on our underclassman next year, how well they develop over the summer and early in the season will be vital to our success.”

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PRETTY PRAIRIE

Pretty Prairie finished 3-6 overall, 3-3 in district and 3-2 in the Heart of the Plains League under first-year coach Steve Puetz, a former Garden Plain and Hutchinson Community College athlete. The Bulldogs took a four-win dropoff from the previous year when they were 7-3, 4-1 in districts and 4-2 in league play. PP went L-W-L-W-L the first five weeks. The Bulldogs played a neutral site game against Wichita County at Otis-Bison to open the year and lost 66-8. Then, the Bulldogs won at Burrton, 36-8, before a 54-0 road loss versus Kiowa County. After a 26-14 home victory against Fairfield, PP lost at Hutch-Central Christian, 52-0. PP went 1-3 in the final month with all losses by at least 36 points and a 28-20 road win versus Norwich in Week 7. PP played the No. 35 strength of schedule out of 52 Division II squads, according to Prep Power Index. The Bulldogs scored 13.6 points a game and allowed 42.2. The year prior, PP delivered 46.3 points a game and allowed 27.4. Pretty Prairie finished fourth in District 7 behind South Barber, Central Christian and South Haven. South Barber and CC are again the district favorites this year. Last fall, District 7 went 5-18 in non-district contests and only CC and SB (a combined 5-3) won games outside of district play. Dennis Detter is expected to take over at Pretty Prairie this season and will be the Bulldogs’ third head coach in as many seasons. Prior to Puetz, C.T. Young served a long stint as Pretty Prairie’s head coach. Detter has been the head coach for boys’ basketball and is the middle school math and science teacher. 3-6 in 2018 / 3-3 in district / 8-Man II Heart of the Plains Coach: Dennis Detter (1st year) Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A Conor Nicholl

8-2-1 in 2018 / 6-0 in district / 8-Man II Central Prairie League Coach: Travis Starr (15th year, 90-51-1) Assistant: Curtis Little Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Returning lettermen: 13 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Seth Hoopingarner, RB/LB, 5-8, 190, Sr.; Bevan Gradig, TE/LB, 5-8, 180, Sr.; Hunter Mitchell, OL/DE, 5-10, 215, Sr.; Kendall Steinert, C/NG, 5-11, 260, Sr. Conor Nicholl

RANDOLPH-BLUE VALLEY

The 2018 season was a numbers game from the word go for Blue Valley-Randolph. With only nine players out, the Rams fought the battle the entire season and had to forfeit a pair of games early in the season, including the opener with Rock Hills. When the Rams had enough to play, they were pretty darn solid. Blue Valley went 5-2 in those seven games, finishing the season with a four-game winning streak including a pair of blowout wins over Lakeside in the final two weeks. Even with the graduation of three starters, the Rams should have improved numbers this year as 15th-year coach Matt Schreiber expects to have between 12-14 players out. Not only should that allow Blue Valley to play every game this year, but also gives at least a little depth that the program 1-8 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man II didn’t have a year ago. Northwest Kansas League Though the graduation losses were few, they were Coach: Micah Roehl (4th year, 1-24) significant. Assistants: Brian Roesch, Cody Corwin The duo of Lane Peter and Cole Montgomery were Offense: I Defense: 3-2 four-year starters for the program and each racked Returning lettermen: 10 up at least 1,000 yards of total offense and combined Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense for 17 touchdowns last season. The only other loss to Collin Blackwill, QB/DB, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Kasen graduation was end Dakota Hagenmaier. Ostmeyer, RB/DE, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Tucker Gillespie, Blue Valley’s offensive and defensive line returns FB/LB, 6-0, 200, Jr.; C.T. Borger, C, 5-10, 230, Sr.; intact with three seniors: Dalton Clark, Brayden Young and Ben Wichman. Clark and Young also Carson Selensky, OL/NG, 5-11, 215, Jr.; Tanner Charles, OL/LB, 5-7, 200, Jr. Conor Nicholl return on the defensive line, while Wichman returns

at linebacker. Senior Brody Barr is the lone returner in the backfield, taking over at quarterback full time after starting games there as a sophomore when Montgomery was injured before moving to an end position last year. He’ll be flanked by junior Jay Duncan with sophomore Clayton Budenbender returning at an end spot. Last year’s forfeit to Hanover cost the Rams a spot in the playoffs even though they finished fourth in the district standings. The Rams’ district will still be one of the toughest in the state with three-time defending Division II champion Hanover, semifinalist Axtell and Frankfort all among the top contenders for the state title this year. 5-4 in 2018 / 3-3 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Matt Schreiber (15th year, 40-68) Assistants: None Offense: Power Series Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 6 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Brody Barr, QB/LB, 6-3, 165, Sr.; Dalton Clark, OL/ DL, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Brayden Young, OL/DE, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Ben Wichman, OL/LB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Jay Duncan, RB/CB, 6-3, 160, Jr.; Clayton Budenbender, 6-2, 215, So. Brent Maycock

Page 140

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RURAL VISTA (WHITE CITY/HOPE)

Jeff Hostetter, a Hope graduate, amassed a 221-76 record in 27 seasons and then retired. Derron Reddick served as an 11-Man assistant for four years, and then took over as RV head coach last season. The Heat, the co-operative between Hope and Rural Vista, slipped back from 4-5 to 1-8. Reddick left for Rossville as an assistant coach, and Brian Henry takes over. Henry was at Alma-Wabaunsee since 2001. He served as head football coach and won 25 percent of his games as Wabaunsee struggled in the Mid-East League with the likes of traditional powers Silver Lake, Rossville and Riley County. However, Henry went 186-212 as the softball coach for 18 seasons and captured two state softball titles in ’07 and ’18. He is the only coach in Wabaunsee school history to win multiple state titles, according to The Charger, the Wabaunsee High School’s Student Newspaper. In football, Henry served on staff at Wabaunsee for 17 years in some capacity and won a district title in ’13. Henry mainly served as an assistant basketball coach, but was the head girls’ coach one year. RV lists 19 players on the roster and three seniors: lineman Cody Meyer, wide receiver/cornerback Levi Davis, running back/guard/linebacker Logan Mellen. Dylan Worrell completed 45 percent of his passes for 569 yards with a 5/9 TD/INT ratio. He led with 146 carries for 589 yards and seven TDs. Junior Cameron Campuzano had 58 rushes for 256 yards and five scores, and caught 27 passes for 276 yards and four TDs. RV had 26 turnovers and was minus-11 in turnover margin. Campuzano and Worrell were 1-2 in tackles with 108 and 75, respectively, and combined for 29 TFLs. The Heat scored 17.3 points per contest and allowed 52.9 a game. 1-8 in 2018 / 1-4 in district / 8-Man II Wheat State League Coach: Brian Henry (1st year) Offense: I formation-Option Defense: 3-3 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 6 Defense Cameron Campuzano, Wing/LB, Jr.; Dylan Worrell, RB/LB, Jr.; Tom Van Valkenburg, RB/CB, Jr.; Levi Davis, WR/CB, Sr.; Ethan Barrett, OG/NG, So.; Ajay Brown, OG/DE, So.; Cody Meyer, C, Sr. Conor Nicholl

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SATANTA

Satanta went 4-5, including 1-4 on the road with losses versus Spearville (52-6), Ingalls (58-12), Stafford (82-36) and South Barber (78-14). The Indians had a three-win dropoff after a 7-2 season in 2017. Last year, Satanta scored 25.8 points a contest and allowed 43.3. In 2017, the Indians scored 44.2 points a game and permitted 23.8 points a contest. Satanta last had a losing season in a 4-5 year in 2013. Since then, the Indians went 7-3, 6-4, 5-4, 7-2 before last fall. “Be competitive on every play,” coach Justin Helton said of team keys. “Win the games we should and be competitive enough to have the chance to win the tough ones in the fourth quarter.” Satanta has to replace departed seniors Gabe Salas and Kris Wagner, and Helton said “winning the battle in the trenches” will be the main goals for the season. Salas produced 6,678 yards of total offense. Wagner led the offensive line in producing 12,026 total yards of offense during their four years. Salas and Wagner combined for 159 tackles in 2018. Houston Friend is a three-year starter at quarterback. He completed 67 of 132 passes for 860 yards with an 11/7 TD/INT ratio. He rushed 112 times for 705 yards and four scores. Even without Salas, Satanta returns 48 percent of its rushing yards and 66 percent of its receiving yards. Satanta was plusfive in turnover margin. “With unproven running backs we will rely heavily on the offensive line to control the line of scrimmage and our senior and three-year starter at QB Houston Friend to put us in a position to be successful,” Helton said. 4-5 in 2018 / 3-3 in district / 8-Man II Southern Plains Iroquois Activities Association Coach: Justin Helton (4th year, 16-11) Assistants: N/A Offense: Pistol Pro/Warrior/DBL Wing Defense: 4-2-2 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Houston Friend, QB/S, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Alan Olivas, TE/DE, 5-11, 215, Sr.; Angel Manriquez, TE/LB, 6-0, 155, Jr.; Erier Tarango, RB/LB, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Liam Lynch, OL/DL, 6-4, 235, Jr.; Alexis Moreno, OL/LB, 5-11, 215, So.; Hiram Anderson, LB, 6-1, 220, So.CN

go WILDCATS wildcats! GO

SCANDIA-PIKE VALLEY

Jeremy Miller replaced Don Melby last season. Melby retired after 40 years at the school, 39 on the sidelines and 37 as head coach. Pike Valley’s field is named after him. Melby went 216-143 in his career. Pike Valley had advanced to back-to-back substate title games in ’16-17 and went 11-1 in his final year before significant graduation losses. Miller guided PV to a 4-5 record in District 4, including a 4-2 mark in district. District 4 struggled as a whole as the teams went 2-17 in non-district games and only 8-2 Rock Hills won more than five contests overall. Miller set goals that include a “winning record,” and, “make a deep run in the playoffs.” Pike Valley defeated Tescott, Southern Cloud and Linn all by at least 50 points, and beat DownsLakeside, 62-30. All of the losses came by 45 points except for a 20-6 home loss to Beloit/St. John’s-Tipton in Week 5. Running back/linebacker Brody Carlgren was the only returning starter last year, though he played in only five games. The top-two rushers graduated in Kane Johnson and Tristyn Garman. They rushed for 795 and 580 yards, respectively, and combined for 20 rushing scores. Three of the top-four tacklers are back, led by senior Ethan Marcotte, who paced the team with 78 stops. Longtime Melby assistants Gary Loring and Mike Baumann remained on staff. “This year we have a good sized o-line with all returning starters,” Miller said. “Their ability to control the line of scrimmage up front will be key early in the season. Staying healthy will also be key. Another key will be developing a sense of identity for a young but passionate club.”

4-5 in 2018 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Jeremy Miller (2nd year, 4-5; 8th year, 22-41) Assistants: Gary Loring, Mike Baumann Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Ethan Beene, C, 6-0, 260, Jr.; Brennan Flavin, OG/ South Haven returned to the playoffs with a back-to-back road losses versus Hutchinson Central TE, 6-2, 230, Jr.; Trevor Allen, OG, 5-11, 235, Sr.; Layton Robison, OG, Sr.; Ethan Marcotte, WR/RB, 4-5 record, 4-2 in district, and third place finish in Christian (64-12) and Stafford (54-28). 5-9, 145, Sr.; Daltyn Garman, QB/WR, 5-10, 160, District 7 behind South Barber (9-1, 6-0 district) and South Haven scored 26.5 points per game Jr.; Keaton Reeves, QB/WR, 5-8, 130 Hutchinson Central Christian (7-3, 5-1). SH had post- and allowed 40.8. SH had a per game defensive Conor Nicholl ed marks of 2-7, 3-6, 2-7 and 2-7 in the previous four improvement of 18.69 points per game from 2017, years. SH was 8-2 in 2013 under former coach David which ranked in the top-five in eight-man football Hughes, who coached for 34 years at the school. last season. South Haven lost at Caldwell (56-8) and versus Cedar Vale-Dexter (62-14) before a 48-24 road win 4-5 in 2018 / 4-2 in district / 8-Man II against Norwich. After a 54-8 loss to South Barber, South Central Border League Southern Cloud opened 0-4 before a 54-30 victory SH won by forfeit against Burrton. SH earned a Coach: Cody Wolf (5th year, 11-25) 48-12 road win versus Pretty Prairie, and then Returning starters: N/A Conor Nicholl versus Downs-Lakeside. After a 48-0 loss against Rock Hills, SC defeated Linn (70-44) and Tescott (56defeated Fairfield, 45-0. SH ended the season with 6). SC lost at Hanover, 54-0, in Week 9. Coach Rick Hatfield is in his third season as head coach after he led the junior high program for nine years. SC scored 24.4 points a game and permitted 40.4 points a contest. Morgan Coleman returns for his third year at quarterback. In his career, he has completed 29 of 97 passes for 273 yards with a 9/13 TD/INT ratio. He has recorded 108 tackles with 57 assists. Senior Nevyn Gold has 11 passes defended in his career. Sophomore Dusty Mason enjoyed a strong freshman year with five passes defended and collected honorable mention all district. Sophomore Matt Paillett (5-10, 275) could be the starting center this year. Senior Konnor Sutton is a returning starter, and senior Tony Duggin should play a key role at running back, defensive back and special teams. Assistant coach Julian Aramendi is in his third year, while assistant coach Ryon King is new to the program. SC is 6-4, 1-8, 0-9, 0-9, 2-7, 3-6 in the last six seasons. SC graduated six seniors, and Hatfield said his “only worry is numbers.” “We did improve in many areas last year, we ran the ball better, played better defense and won more

SOUTH HAVEN

SHARON SPRINGS-WALLACE COUNTY

From ’06-16, Wallace County never had a losing season with coaches Kevin Ayers and Jeff Hennick. The Wildcats captured a state title in ’07, were state runner-up in ’13 and sub-state runner-up from ’14-16. But the Wildcats posted 3-6 marks the last two falls with Ayers, one of the 8-Man’s all-time great coaches, after he returned to the program when Hennick left for Oakley. It marked the only two times Ayers has ever been under .500 in his years at Jetmore and Wallace County. Ayers, who has three state titles and a 158-39 career record, left for Little River, his wife’s alma mater, and will take over as LR’s head football coach. Brad Willems takes over as head coach and Ben Johnson is an assistant. Both were assistants in ’18. New assistant Levi Johnson was a 2017 8-Man allstar after he was the quarterback on the ’16 squad. Willems called the offense a “work in progress” and stated keys and goals are to “work hard and have fun doing it” and “staying healthy.” Wallace County opened 0-3 last year, including a 24-12 loss versus Oberlin. After two victories by a combined 98-0 score, WC lost 48-0 at Dighton in Week 6, and 30-28 in overtime against Greeley County in Week 7. It marked the first time the Jackrabbits had defeated the Wildcats since 2005. Before last year, the Jackrabbits had not been within 24 points of the Wildcats since ’05. After a 20-8 road win versus Triplains-Brewster, Wallace County fell 44-0 versus Sylvan-Lucas. Senior Luke Johnson graduated after he was a twoyear starting quarterback. He and linemen Josh Daily were 8-Man all-stars. WC listed just 15 players, along with five seniors, on the roster last year. This season’s team has just 14 players listed, and just three seniors: fullback/middle linebacker Corbin Smith, along with running back/ cornerback Justin Seader and end Cody Seader. Wallace County has historically had outstanding defenses and fielded another solid unit last fall. The Wildcats permitted 26.2 points per game but scored only 18.2 points a contest. Two years ago, Wallace County had 20.7 points a game and allowed 32.6. Three years ago, in an 8-4 season, WC was at 33.9 points scored and 19.7 points allowed a contest.

3-6 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man II Northwest Kansas League Coach: Brad Willems (1st year) Assistants: Ben Johnson, Levi Johnson Offense: N/A Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 4 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense Corbin Smith, FB/MLB, Sr.; Cody Seader, TE/DE, Sr.; Dave Korbe, RB/CB, Jr.; Landon Johnson, TE/CB, Jr. Conor Nicholl

SOUTHERN CLOUD (MILTONVALE/GLASCO)

games, and made the playoffs, where we ran into Hanover, one of the finest teams I’ve ever seen.” Hatfield said. 3-6 in 2018 / 3-3 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Rick Hatfield (3rd year, 5-13) Assistants: Julian Aramendi, Ryon King Offense: Slot I Defense: 3-4 Returning lettermen: 9 Returning starters: 7 Offense, 7 Defense Morgan Coleman, QB/RB, 5-11, 175, Jr.; Nevyn Gold, E/DB, 5-10, 145, Sr.; Kaleb Mock, FB/DE, 5-10, 225, Jr.; Evan Custer, G/LB/DE, 5-11, 185, So.; Konnor Sutton, E/DE/LB, 5-10, 145, Sr.; Gabe Rice, C/NG, 5-9, 146, So.; Dusty Mason, QB/RB/DB, 5-8, 135, So. Conor Nicholl

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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Since senior Adam Albertini first stepped on the St. Paul football field as a freshman in 2016, the Indians are 29-6 with three trips to the playoffs and one trip to the 8-Man I championship in 2017. Albertini, one of the best backs in all of 8-Man, is back for his senior season and will either play quarterback or running back for the Indians this season. Regardless, Albertini will be the focal point of a St. Paul offense that averaged 49.8 points per game last season. The 2018 season got off to a rough start after the Indians fell at home to Sedan in the season opener, 44-36. St. Paul rebounded by winning its next nine games before the Indians were rolled by eventual state champions Hanover in the quarterfinals, 46-0. St. Paul went 5-0 in 8-Man II, District 1, and went 4-0 in the Three Rivers League. Entering his sixth year as head coach, Keith Wiatrak has set similar goals for the team. “Our goal is to work our way back into the playoffs,” Wiatrak said. Albertini is coming off a junior season in which he ran for over 2,000 yards and scored over 50 touchdowns. Those outstanding numbers earned him All-State honors from multiple media outlets. Albertini will be joined by fellow senior running back Easton Dent. While Albertini is more of a speedster, Dent, at 6-1, 200, is more of a power back. The Indians also return three senior offensive lineman in Gib Carter, Chase Bradshaw, and Ivan Murillo. Senior tight end Chandler Bradshaw, who is listed at 6-2, 175, will also contribute on offense. In total, the Indians return six starters on offense, five on defense, and eight lettermen. Wiatrak says staying injury free will be the key to his team’s success. 9-2 in 2017 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man II Three Rivers League Coach: Keith Wiatrak (6th year, 38-15) Assistants: N/A Offense: I-formation Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 8 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Adam Albertini, QB/RB, 5-9, 168, Sr.; Easton Dent, RB, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Gib Carter, OL, 5-8, 210, Sr.; Chandler Bradshaw, TE, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Chase Bradshaw, OL, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Ivan Murillo, OL, 6-0, 200, Sr. Gallagher Martin

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STAFFORD

Stafford enjoyed its second straight three-win improvement from 1-8 to 4-5 to 7-3 and had a significant climb offensively. Stafford was 0-5 all-time in the playoffs and captured a Week 9 bracket game with a 54-28 win versus South Haven, the first postseason win in school history. Stafford lost the following week at South Barber, 60-14. The South Haven contest was Stafford’s only game within the 45-point margin. The Trojans scored 47.4 points per game, No. 13 in 8-Man football. Stafford had an offensive improvement from 2017 of plus-27.1 points per contest, which ranked second in 8-Man. The plus-3 wins improvement tied for ninth. Stafford had a small improvement defensively from 32.2 points allowed to 30.2 points permitted per game last year. Stafford finished second in District 8 with a 5-1 mark, only behind 6-0 Otis-Bison. District 8 should be one of the more intriguing 8-Man districts this fall with significant graduations for O-B and Bucklin, Minneola and Ingalls with a high number of returners. Stafford graduated its key offensive playmakers, however, with Justice Manning and Caleb Hildebrand. Manning threw for 565 yards with an 11/5 TD/INT ratio and rushed for 630 yards and 17 scores. Hildebrand rushed for 1,085 yards and 24 scores. Tai Hildebrand enjoyed a big freshman season with 70 carries for 517 yards and 11 TDs. Even with the big offensive season, Stafford delivered 18 turnovers and was just plus-3 in turnover margin. “On offense we want to be simple enough that we can play without thinking and complex enough that the defense doesn’t know what we are doing,” coach Taylor Bauman said. Caleb Hildebrand had another standout season with 125 tackles to lead the squad, along with 12 TFLs. Returning senior Kenny Sanders finished with 51 tackles and 15.5 TFLs. He, senior Alex Herrera and junior Kenny Schreiber are multi-year starters. 7-3 in 2018 / 5-1 in district / 8-Man II Heart of the Plains Coach: Taylor Bauman (3rd year, 11-8) Assistants: Jimmy Brozek Offense: Veer Defense: 3-2 Returning lettermen: 7 Returning starters: 4 Offense, 5 Defense Ethan Hildebrand, TE/LB, 6-5, 195, Sr.; Kenny Sanders, OL/DL, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Alex Herrera, RB/DB, 5-6, 120, Sr.; Kleyton Schreiber, TE/DE, 6-2, 185, Jr.; Tai Hildebrand, RB/DB, 5-6, 160, So. Conor Nicholl

TRIBUNE-GREELEY COUNTY

Greeley County is 3-6, 4-5, 4-5, 3-6, 4-5 and 4-5 since a 0-9 season in 2012. Last year, the Jackrabbits ended one of the more under-the-radar streaks in Kansas football history. In Week 7, Greeley County won at rival Sharon Springs-Wallace County, 30-28, in overtime. It marked the first time the Jackrabbits had defeated the Wildcats since 2005, the last year before coach Kevin Ayers joined the Sharon Springs program and built it into a consistent power from ’06-18. The Jackrabbits had scheduled Wallace County – the towns are less than 30 miles apart – every year since 1982, according to Kansas Football History. Before last year, the Jackrabbits had not been within 24 points of the Wildcats since ’05. Greeley County had to forfeit its 2016 game versus the Wildcats. Even with the victory, though, Greeley County took third in the district. Dighton won the district with a 5-0 mark, while Wallace County, Greeley County and Triplains-Brewster were all 3-2 in district play. Wallace County was plus-32 in district points, Greeley County stood plus-16 and Triplains-Brewster was minus-5. Greeley County lost, 20-14, to Triplains-Brewster in Week 6. Greeley County has not had a .500 or better season since a 6-3 mark in 2010. Last season, the Jackrabbits averaged 33.1 points per game and permitted 34.9. Two years ago, it was 27.1 points a game and 35.1 allowed. In 2016, GC scored 17.8 points a contest and permitted 31.8. The offensive output in 2018 marked the highest for the program since 38.9 in ’10. The Jackrabbits did graduate quarterback Jose Chavez, who had a solid season with more than 700 passing and 460 rushing yards, though six offensive

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Sylvan-Lucas delivered its third straight winning season and is 6-3, 8-2 and 6-4 in the last three years. Last year, S-L scored 34.4 points a game and allowed 25.6. Two seasons ago, the Mustangs scored 44.2 points a game and permitted 16.2. S-L won at Wallace County, 44-0, in Week 9. It marked the first playoff victory in coach Ben Labertew’s career, one of eight-man’s longest tenured coaches and traditionally known for his offense. That marked the third straight shutout for S-L. Before then, the Mustangs defeated Logan-Palco (48-0) and Wilson (46-0). S-L opened the season with a 28-0 victory versus Chase, and then lost at Stockton, 54-26, before a 46-0 road win versus rival Lincoln. The Mustangs lost 60-14 against Osborne, and then delivered a big comeback to beat Thunder Ridge, 52-48, on the road. The Mustangs trailed 40-24 at halftime and 48-38 with 10:33 remaining. S-L lost the following week, 28-20, versus Northern Valley. After the three shutouts, the Mustangs lost at eventual state runner-up Osborne, 66-20. Overall, District 5 was very close with Osborne winning at 5-0 and Northern Valley, Sylvan-Lucas and Thunder Ridge all 3-2 in district play. NV finished second at plus-19, while Sylvan-Lucas was plus-17 and Thunder Ridge stood at plus-7. Senior running back/linebacker Beau Batchman is one of the top players in 8-Man football and returns after 1,400 yards rushing, 20 TDs and 100 tackles last season. Kilby Meyer and Marshall Hurlbut provide excellent complements in the backfield while Tra Barrientes – a two-time state wrestling qualifier – and Logan Buttenhoff give the Mustangs plenty of size up front. Labertew set goals to “compete every week, and work our way back into the state playoffs.” 6-4 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Ben Labertew (8th year; 18th overall) Assistants: Eric Nitsch, Craig Batchman, Ryan Batchman Offense: I Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 12 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 5 Defense Beau Batchman, RB/LB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Kilby Meyer, RB/LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Logan Buttenhoff, OL/DL, 6-0, 215, Jr.; Tra Barrientes, OL/DL, 5-8, 220, Jr.; Dawson Rhudolph, TE 5-10, 170, Jr.; Marshall Hurlbut, RB/ DB 5-10, 160, Jr. Conor Nicholl

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The Trojans decreased from two wins in 2016 to one win in 2017 to going winless last fall. With just 11 players out for 8-Man football a season ago, and graduating two seniors, things likely won’t get any easier, but, some experience should help. The Trojans return starting quarterback Zach Perry, who is entering his senior year. Perry will be joined by fellow seniors Remington Peterson and Cody Flax, a pair of good-sized linemen that will lead the charge up front on both sides of the ball. Alex Hunley showed flashes of speed and athleticism as a freshman and should continue to get more carries in the offensive backfield heading into his sophomore year as a Trojan. The Trojans produced little offense last season, scoring more than twice in a game only two times. The total points tally for the Trojans on the year was a meager 58, good for an average of just over 6.4 points a contest. The Trojans were also shut out twice. The defense displayed similar struggles allowing at least 48 points in all nine contests and seven times giving up 56 points or more. If the Trojans are to be competitive this season it will start by protecting the ball. Tescott was plagued by fumbles and interceptions last year and frequently found themselves on the losing side of the all important turnover battle. Tescott posted a winning record as recently as 2015 when they finished 5-4, but to find the last time the Trojans recorded more than five wins in a season one must go back to 2008, when Tescott went 6-3 and qualified for the playoffs, where they lost in the opening round against Hanover. Tescott will open the season at Lincoln followed by a week two trip to Scandia to take on Pike Valley. The first home action for the Trojans will be in week three against St. John’s-Beloit/Tipton. 0-9 in 2018 / 0-6 in district / 8-Man II Northern Plains League Coach: Daymon Walker (14th year) Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A

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WAKEFIELD

After enjoying a six-win season yet failing to make the playoffs in 2017, Wakefield dipped to just three wins last year. However, those three wins all came in district play and were enough to get the Bombers back into the playoffs. Freed from a two-year district with the likes of Hanover, Axtell and Frankfort, Wakefield took advantage of its new district slate to put a positive spin on an otherwise disappointing season overall, the program’s first losing campaign since 2012 and fewest wins since 2009. Victories over Rural Vista, Hartford and Marais des Cygnes Valley secured the postseason berth with the trip ending in the first 4-5 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man II round with a 60-14 loss to Southern Coffey Co. Northwest Kansas League Graduation claimed starting quarterback Skylur Coach: Kyle Finder (5th year, 15-21) Merritt, who ran for a team-high 865 yards and 16 Assistants: Drew Zerr, KC Higley touchdowns and threw for 853 yards and 12 more Offense: Option Defense: 3-2 scores. He was also the team’s second-leading Returning lettermen: 6 tackler and three of the top four are gone. Returning starters: 6 Offense, 6 Defense Veteran coach Chris Freeman does have a strong Manuel Chavez, TE/DE, Jr.; Jacob Miller, WR/DB, Jr.; presence to build around for 2019, however. Junior Edwin Manzaneres, OL/DL, Jr.; Seth Williams, RB/ back Konner Murphy had a big sophomore year as DB, Jr.; Jesus Martinez, RB/DB, So.; Rey Chavez, a complement to Merritt, finishing with 711 yards OL/DL, So. Conor Nicholl rushing and another 191 receiving.

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and defensive starters return. Coach Kyle Finder said team goals are to compete for a playoff spot and remain competitive in every game. Greeley County will again be in manageable District 6 where Dighton was the only team with a winning record last season but took massive graduation losses. Wallace County also has a new coach. “We have a lot of young guys who will have to grow up quickly and step into leadership roles,” Finder said. “Being able to handle adversity will play a big part of us being competitive throughout the season.”

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Page 141

He only found the end zone seven times, though Merritt typically was the closer to most offensive drives. Murphy will take on the lead role this season and senior receiver Jack Krueger is also back after leading the team with 460 yards and six touchdown catches. Murphy also led the Bombers in tackles with 75. Two of three starting linemen return, but Wakefield was low on numbers a year ago with only 15 out and will fight that battle again this year after losing six to graduation. 3-6 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man II Wheat State League Coach: Chris Freeman (11th year, 54-46)

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

WAVERLY

A new era begins at Waverly after long-time coach Mike Hevel retired after the end of last school year. Hevel spent 26 years as head coach of the program, going 192-71 and capturing a pair of 8-Man state titles (Division II in 2005; Division I in 2006). Hevel’s final season was a good one as the Bulldogs posted a 9-2 record and reached the DII state quarterfinals. The season ended with a 54-8 loss to Axtell and the only other defeat was a 20-0 loss to Lyon County League champ Madison. The program is now in the hands of Nick Fraenza, who served as Hevel’s assistant for a number of years and has been the head track coach for several years as well. He won’t deviate much from the offensive and defensive philosophies Hevel had in place, which should make the transition a smooth one. What might make it tougher is the holes Waverly needs to fill on the field. Graduation claimed nine seniors and four players who earned all-league, including unanimous picks Jake Newton (RB) and Jon Lee (lineman/LB). Lee also earned All-8-Man Division II honors and was the Bulldogs’ leading tackler. Only three starters and six lettermen return for Fraenza’s first year, though two of them were allleague performers. Senior Wes Patterson was a firstteam selection in the secondary and an honorable mention pick at receiver last year. He could move into the backfield this year to fill the voids left by Newton and first-team all-league quarterback Drew Pyle. Senior Christian Decker was an honorable mention pick on the offensive line and is one of two starting linemen back along with junior Eric Skillman. Decker will also anchor the defense from a linebacker corps that will have to replace a pair of all-leaguers in Lee and Newton. Waverly was an offensive juggernaut last year, averaging 44.9 points per game. The Bulldogs scored at least 40 points in all nine wins and 50 or more in six of them. Defensively, they allowed more tha 16 points just three times, including both losses. Even with the graduation losses, Waverly should be in contention for another district title. 9-2 in 2018 / 5-0 in district / 8-Man II Lyon County League Coach: Nick Fraenza (1st year) Assistants: Tyler Williams Offense: Splitbacks Defense: Multiple Returning lettermen: 6 Returning starters: 3 Offense, 2 Defense Christian Decker, OG/LB, Sr.; Wes Patterson, CB, Sr.; Zach Skillman, G, Jr. Brent Maycock

WETMORE

Wetmore didn’t lose a lot to graduation. But what it lost was darn near everything. With an extremely young supporting cast around him, Joel Hutfles was pretty much a one-man show for the Cardinals last year. The departed quarterback threw for all 398 of the team’s passing yards and ran for 919 of its 1,106 rushing yards. He also scored 18 of the 19 rushing touchdowns and accounted for 25 of the 26 overall TDs. For good measure, his 113 tackles were nearly one-third of the team’s 384 total. So while almost everyone else returns — Jonathan Hladky-Bailey was the only other graduate — there are still a lot of unknowns facing the Cardinals in 2019. Junior back Kael McQueen was Hutfles’ top complement a year ago, but only ran for 123 yards on 66 carries. He was a bigger threat in the passing game with 290 yards receiving and three touchdowns. No other player had more than 52 yards rushing or receiving and all but one of Wetmore’s skill players this year will be underclassmen with sophomores Storm Hackler and Braden Henry joining McQueen in the backfield. McQueen, Ross Shumaker and Kevin Shumaker all had 40 or more tackles last year and Hackler was right behind with 38. Kevin Shumaker and linemen John Lamberson and Mason Gibson are the lone seniors on this year’s roster and the Cardinals will lack numbers as it still tries to establish itself after returning to the KSHSAA ranks three years ago. Last year, Wetmore was 2-7, beating Southern Cloud (44-24) and Tescott (60-14). The Cardinals were also competitive in losses to Doniphan West (48-32) and Onaga (36-18), but find themselves in one of the toughest districts in Division II with threetime reigning champion Hanover and contenders Axtell and Frankfort leading the way. 2-7 in 2018 / 0-6 in district / 8-Man II Twin Valley League Coach: Rick Schnacker (5th year, 5-22) Returning lettermen: 11 Returning starters: 6 Offense, 7 Defense Kael McQueen, RB/DB, 5-11, 140, Jr.; Ross Shumaker, OL/DL, 6-0, 185, Jr.; Kevin Shumaker, E/ DB, 6-0, 130, Sr.; Storm Hackler, RB/DB, 5-10, 130, So.; Braden Henry, RB/LB, 5-10, 145, So.; Tyson Ball, OL/DL, 5-11, 200, So.; John Lamberson, OL/DL, 6-1, 195 So.; Mason Gibson, OL/DL, 6-1, 190, Sr. Brent Maycock

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WILSON

After years of 6-2 and 5-4, Wilson dropped back to 1-8 in 2017 in an injury-plagued season before a 2-7 mark last year. Wilson has not made the playoffs since 2009. Last year, Wilson finished 0-5 in a District 5 that had four teams finish with winning records. Osborne was the state runner-up, while Thunder Ridge went 5-4; both have a high number of key returners back. “The Dragons will look for leadership to bring young players around to varsity level,” coach Tony Brokes said in his mid-summer questionnaire. “The past years have brought many injuries, our luck must change. Several young players will have to step up for this team to be successful. Simplicity, fundamentals, along with self-discipline will be a must for team development.” Wilson opened the season with a 42-8 win versus Southern Cloud, part of three home games to start the season. The Dragons then dropped seven straight before a 50-0 home win versus WheatlandGrinnell in Week 9. Wilson scored 14.7 points a game and allowed 40.7. The Dragons will rely on a strong junior class to reverse their fortunes. All six players returning with starting experience are in the junior class and with one more year of experience under their belt could be poised to take step forward this fall.

WINONA-TRIPLAINS/BREWSTER

After a 1-8 season in ’16 and winless 2017, Triplains-Brewster enjoyed a nice improvement to 4-5 overall, 3-2 in district play and took fourth in District 6. Dighton, the only district squad with a winning record, was 5-0 in district. Wallace County, Greeley County and Triplains-Brewster were all 3-2 in district. WC was plus-32, Greeley County was plus-16 and T-B finished minus-5 in district points. The Titans’ plus-four wins improvement tied for third-best in 8-Man football. As well, TriplainsBrewster scored 20.7 points a contest and allowed 34.1. Compared to ’17, T-B improved by 13.4 points per game offensively and 16.2 points per contest defensively. Both improvements ranked in the top-10 in 8-Man football. Two years ago, T-B played the No. 2 strength of schedule in 8-Man, Division II, according to Prep Power Index. Last season, the Titans had a much softer strength of schedule as the District 6 teams combined for a 7-20 non-district record. Triplains-Brewster opened with a 32-22 home victory against Logan-Palco, and then lost road games to Northern Valley (62-22) and WaKeeney-Trego (64-14). The Titans beat Quinter, 36-28, in overtime and lost 47-0 to Dighton. T-B won at Greeley County (20-14) and Wheatland-Grinnell (54-6) before losses against Wallace County (20-8) and eventual state runner-up Osborne, 48-0, in a Week 9 bracket game. The Titans struggled passing with 349 yards on 25 2-7 in 2018 / 0-5 in district / 8-Man II percent completion with a 3/12 TD/INT ratio. Northern Plains League Senior Weston Schmidt is back after he led the Coach: Tony Brokes (21st year, 77-125) team with 136 carries for 646 yards and nine scores. Assistants: Travis Weinhold Triplains-Brewster committed 16 turnovers and was Offense: Spread Defense: 3-2 minus-2 in turnover margin. Returning lettermen: 7 Schmidt was second on the team in tackles and Returning starters: 4 Offense, 4 Defense tops among returners with 77 stops. Junior Ryan Donavan Lyne, 5-11, 185, Jr.; Garrett Theilen, 6-0, Hause is also back after 43 tackles, 11 for loss. 210, Jr.; Dylan Crawford; 6-0, 185, Jr.; Cooper District 6 is expected to be manageable again this Weinhold, 6-2, 210, Jr.; Cody Slechta, 5-9, 160, Sr.; season as Dighton took heavy graduation losses, Westin Hughes, 5-8, 160, Sr. Conor Nicholl and Wallace County went through a coaching change.

Town & Country Service S Hwy 40 • Winona, KS 785-846-7473

4-5 in 2018 / 3-2 in district / 8-Man II Western Kansas Liberty League Coach: Brett Gfeller (4th year) Assistants: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A Returning lettermen: N/A Returning starters: N/A

Conor Nicholl

Panzer/from page 25_____ Pauls/from page 25__________________________________________________________

various interviews during the last several months – without being asked – Panzer will bring up his potential impact on young children and the future. “I just try to put myself in great position to win matches,” Panzer said after the Strahm match. “I just thank God for putting me on this Earth, so I can maybe help some younger kids, inspire them a little bit.” In June, Panzer echoed similar comments about his legacy with the Broncs. Lakin has delivered a big turnaround with coach Chris Bamberger, a Jetmore native and former K-State player who won a state crown at Ness City. Bamberger went 2-7 in his first year and is 5-5, 7-3 and 8-2 since. In the first week of the “Bronc Strong” all-sports summer strength and conditioning program, Lakin averaged 135 kids over the first three days. Lakin has had several thrilling wins the last two seasons. In 2017, the Broncs won at Hugoton, 28-20, in three overtimes, in the opener, and then defeated Meade, 30-28, in Week 2. Meade led 28-0 at halftime. Last year, the Broncs opened with a 20-19 road victory versus Meade. “Coach Bam bringing in that mentality of where anything is possible,” Panzer said. “And you can come back if you just get to work, and that’s what I think we had to do, and I think hopefully over the next couple years when we are kind of gone, I hope we leave that legacy of if you are in a hole, you better dig yourself out of it.”

We’ve all got level heads.” Last fall, Pauls and lineman Myles Livingston, a Kansas State Preferred Walk-On, helped Emporia finish 5-5, a one-win improvement after three straight four-win seasons and the most victories since 9-2 in 2012. In ’15, Emporia had five college football commitments, and has eight signings the last four Signing Day cycles, according to Kpreps data. By comparison, Centennial League power Topeka Hayden, 32-15 in the last four falls, also has eight total signings in the last four classes. Emporia was considered a possible breakout team last summer, but finished 4-3 in the Centennial League, a record which could have been very different. The Spartans lost three games by a combined eight points, including 28-24 versus Washburn Rural in the season opener, and 2726 on a field goal in the last 30 seconds against Topeka High in Week 7. “It was a roller coaster, but a lot of heart breaks, a lot of close games,” Pauls said. Emporia did defeat Junction City (23-20) and Wichita Heights (35-17) in Weeks 8 and 9. Since ’04, Emporia was 0-7 versus Heights. The Spartans lost 56-21 to Wichita Northwest in the playoffs. Emporia received 35 percent of its rushing yards from underclassmen, along with 43 percent of its receptions. Emporia’s top-three, five of the leading six, and seven of the top nine tacklers were juniors. The

top-four producers of tackles for loss were all underclassmen. Emporia averaged 29.6 points per contest, most for the program in four seasons. As well, the Spartans permitted 21.9 points a contest, lowest since ’13. Emporia’s passing game has struggled with more interceptions than touchdowns four times in the last five years. However, Pauls helped Emporia move the ball effectively. Emporia averaged 5.81 yards per play. No Spartan squad in the last five seasons has been over 5.99 yards per play. Pauls didn’t start as a freshman but played a little right tackle. Since sophomore year, he has started at left tackle. Off the field, he has helped his father with construction, including home construction. He likes to make models, notably of World War II planes, and likes art classes in school. Last year, Livingston led the Spartans with 47 pancake blocks, and Pauls was second with 30. Whitney Hall, a senior this fall, was third with 18 pancake blocks. Senior Riley Wagner and junior Charles Snyder recorded 13 and 12 pan101 9 cake blocks, respectively. BULL Wagner paced the defense

with 21 TFLs, and Snyder recorded 10 TFLs. Emporia returns four o-line starters, and the entire line should be seniors. The year before Pauls started, Emporia averaged 3.9 yards per rush. The last two seasons, it’s been 5.4 and 5.3. Pauls expects Emporia to run the ball more this year. “A lot to battle back from, I think,” Pauls said. “Just kind of showing how much grit we’ll have this year, too. We made it through that, and so we return 10 or 11, I think on defense, and quite a few on offense I think, around eight, and so I think we will be right up there. Hopefully we will be on the other side of the scoreboard.” Conor Nicholl is a sports writer from western Kansas with over 15 years experience covering high school, college and professional teams throughout the Midwest.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

6-Man By Conor Nicholl, For Kansas Pregame Weskan captured the inaugural 6-Man title in 2016. After Pawnee Heights won the title in ’17 and entered last season as the favorite, Weskan emerged with the championship again as the classification continues to grow. Last year marked the first time 6-Man split into divisions with a North and South. The Coyotes defeated Golden Plains, 75-44, in the title game. Weskan led 34-25 at halftime and was up by 24 points after three quarters. Weskan had edged Golden Plains, 52-46, in the regular season. Weskan had won the North with a 4-0 mark and 7-2 overall record. The Coyotes opened 1-2 and then won six in a row. Coach Brett Clow captured coach of the year honors from Sports in Kansas. Golden Plains went 8-2, 3-1. Cheylin was 4-3, while Natoma finished 3-4 and Western Plains was 0-7. Weskan senior quarterback Jace Mackley repeated as a first team all-state selection, the only 2019 returning player to do so. Mackley was also first team kicker. Mackley completed 170 of 261 passes for 2,116 yards with 44 passing scores. He rushed 82 times for 767 yards and 10 scores. Junior end/receiver Mac Purvis was first team all-state Weskan had four receivers between 28 and 44 catches, including Purvis. Cheylin QB Colton McCarty returns for his junior season after honorable mention all-state recognition from Kpreps, as does first team all-state defensive lineman Miguel Gonzalez. In the South, Ashland, a 6-Man newcomer, emerged as one of the top programs, though lost in the playoffs. The Blue Jays finished 8-1 after a 59-52 victory versus Pawnee Heights in the third place game. Ashland had won the South Division with a 5-0 record. PH finished 7-3, 4-1, though graduates Kade Scott, a threetime all-state player and 6-man’s two-time Kpreps Offensive MVP. He rushed for 2,941 yards and 52 scores and tallied 4,032 all-purpose yards. Senior Jackson Henbest and sophomore Adam Hands contributed 57 and 51 tackles, third- and fourth-most on the team and highest among returners. Scott and McCarty combined for two of the most exciting performances of the year when Scott scored 14 touchdowns and McCarty accounted for 13 scores as Pawnee Heights beat Cheylin 118-85 in the first round of the playoffs. Moscow (4-5), Fowler (3-5), Rolla (1-7) and Deerfield (0-7) rounded out the South. Rolla, Moscow and Deerfield were firstyear 6-Man teams. In the regular season, Ashland defeated Pawnee Heights, 67-21, and held off Moscow, 46-43. The Blue Jays fell to

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Golden Plains, 71-46, in the playoffs. Moscow has senior Austin Snyder, a first team all-state pick at linebacker/defensive back. Ashland has brothers and former Blue Jay standouts Ben and Giles Fox as the coaches. The Blue Jays run a Tight offense and 3-2 defense for Ben, now in his third season as head coach. Two years ago, Ashland was 1-8 in 8-Man before the switch. Ben Fox earned Kpreps 6-Man coach of the year honors. Ashland returns eight lettermen, five offensive starters and four on defense. Seniors Cade Brown (TE/C/DE), Gus Krier (G/RB/LB), Greysen Gardiner (C/TE/DE), Hayden McPhail (C/G/DE) are back. The juniors feature three starters: Kash McPhail (QB/RB/ LB), Gage Branson (RB/NT) and Braton Kay (QQ/WR/S/LB). Branson and Krier were both honorable mention all-state. Ben set a goal to be in the top-four of 6-Man. He said the keys to success are replacing the offensive and defensive playmakers lost to graduation. “Staying healthy and using the first eight games to get better,” Fox said. Golden Plains brings back junior offensive lineman Wade Rush, a first team all-state performer for 20th-year head coach Travis Smith. GP has 10 returning lettermen, but Rush is one of just three starters back. Golden Plains graduated Caleb Korte, the two-time Kpreps 6-Man Defensive Player of the Year.

Stewart/from page 29_____________________________________________

Valley and graduated in ’03. He was a college player at Fort Hays and served seven seasons as a Dodge City assistant. His brother Matt, the former head coach at Lyons, is an assistant at McPherson. In workouts last summer, Sandbo was trying to match up names from tape he had previously seen. He saw Stewart and labeled him “an impressive kid just to look at.” In Sandbo’s eyes, Stewart resembled a lineman in the way he carried himself in the weight room and moved from lift to lift. “Man, that is a next-level looking kid as a left tackle,” Sandbo said. Stewart attended basketball workouts after strength and conditioning, and Sandbo came to the gym one day when Stewart was shooting. Sandbo said Stewart’s basketball skills “green-lighted” the coach to look elsewhere position-wise. Sandbo took Stewart to the gridiron and ran through some routes, including a go and three-step. Sandbo realized Stewart was a natural receiver. Sandbo said Stewart can fill multiple roles, such as a blocker to run behind and press the field vertically and laterally. Information technology can make… “His fine and gross motor or break your business. skills I thought would carry over to what we liked to do That’s why our Trezor IT On Demand with our receivers, and sure is here to protect and enhance your enough,” Sandbo said. business. We deliver competitive Called a “touchdown maadvantage and 24/7 peace of mind chine” by Sandbo and “Mini through an array of customizable Gronk” after former New

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“We will need to replace several all-state players with youth,” Smith said. “Our goal will be, as always, to get to the playoffs and then make a run to the Wild West Bowl. With the return of starters Wade Rush, Rolis Loya and the return on QB Harley Weese from Colby, we have a great shot of accomplishing that goal.” Jaime Infante is expected to help after he returned from injury. Sophomore Roberto Loya will play a key role in the offensive backfield and defensive secondary. “The talent is there to make a run again,” Smith said. “It will depend on the success we have in the offseason. Our success will determined by how fast we can get the young players up to speed on both sides of the ball. We will again attend the Epic Football 6-Man Football Camp in Clifton - Clyde that helped us bond this last season and helped us get better acclimated to the 6 man game. We will lean heavily in Rush, the Loya brothers, Weese and Infante early on as others get their feet wet.” Natoma had a two-win improvement with coach Cody Dunlap, a Tiger alum. His brother, Corey, is the Kinsley head coach. Natoma has six starters back, led by senior running back Shayne Engling (5-10, 165) and senior guard Jacob Murphy (5-9, 140). End Jayson Engling (5-10, 150) is the only junior returning starter. Three sophomores are back: center Derek George (5-11, 165), running back Kayden Martinez (58, 175) and quarterback Tracen Frye (5-8, 135).

England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski from Salina broadcaster Pat Strathman, Stewart’s receiving helped SC bump from 17 points per game in ’17 to 31.7 last season. “As far as last year, felt like everyone kind of bought in a little more,” Stewart said. “Everything’s a little more fast-paced.” A memorable moment came in the season-opening 44-7 win versus Goddard-Eisenhower to end the losing streak. Sandbo and the coaching staff had promoted a positive mindset that SC had “a lot of players” that would be impactful for any team in the state. “Our kids celebrated like there was a monkey off their back, there was a release of pressure, and they were really excited,” Sandbo said. Stewart displayed his toughness by playing through the elbow pain. He had to miss the last two contests, including the Week 10 playoff loss to Bishop Carroll. For BC, the Mustangs were short five defenders who started at the beginning of the year, along with first team all-state running back Taylon Peters, a Washburn signee. SC averaged 35 points a game the first eight contests and 17 a game the last two. “I don’t know if there is anybody on our staff who could do that, I don’t know if there’s too many guys on our team that could go with a completely fractured elbow a game and a half and a whole week of practice and just grind through it,” Sandbo said.

Conor Nicholl is a sports writer from western Kansas with over 15 years experience covering high school, college and professional teams throughout the Midwest.

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Kansas Pregame, Volume 14

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Garden City recruits Kansas/from page 68__________________________________________________________ season, the Busters utilized in-state players such as Peyton Huslig (Quarterback/Andover Central), Harley Hazlett (Wide Receiver/ Abilene) and Cody Jennings (Offensive line/ Southwestern Heights) as key starters for the title squad. Last season, the Busters had two local prep standouts starting on the defensive side – Garden City’s Demarcus Elliott and Holcomb’s Dillon Williams. Elliott, a lineman, just signed with the Indiana Hoosiers of the Big Ten Conference while Williams is headed to Missouri Southern to play for Sims. “You know, we’re looking for a specific kid to come in here and play,” Minnick said. “Junior college football is not for everyone. You’re going up against a lot of potential D-I players, so we want to be able to bring them in, get them in the weight room and get them stronger and bigger and faster so they can have a chance to move on to a bigger school.” Minnick had high praise for the commitment of the GCCC administration to the football program, evidenced by hiring the only full-time strength and conditioning coach in the Jayhawk Conference. “The thing that impressed me about Garden City is that they love their football here,” said Minnick, who spent 11 successful seasons at Arizona Western. “Western liked football and there’s a world of difference in liking football and loving football. We want players coming in here who say they love football.” Minnick said multi-sport athletes at the high school level usually have a much higher rate of success at the collegiate level as well. “We like the kids who do track, wrestle, even basketball,” Minnick said. “All of those sports contribute to a player’s overall skills on the football field.” Drew Thon, currently the athletic director at Garden City High School (a Class 6A school), played high school football at Greeley County in Tribune in the late 1990s before a two-

year career at GCCC and then played at Kansas State. He understands the local connection for high school to community college. Thon said Kansas players can still compete at the Community College level. “Look at the National Championship GCCC won a few years back,” Thon said. “They had great players from all over, but in the end it was a Kansas quarterback (Huslig) throwing to a Kansas receiver (Hazlett) to win a National Championship.” The new Buster mentor also said he and his staff had enjoyed and been impressed with the high school coaches across the state during their spring visits. “Some had indicated it had been some time since they had a visit from a junior college coach, so they were happy to see us,” Minnick said. “They were unbelievable and very welcoming to the new guys. They were appreciative of our visits so we will continue to do that. We want to recruit kids who we think can play.” For Minnick, the goals remain the same, however. Play in the national championship game, which means competing and winning the Jayhawk Conference. “The national championship game is the ultimate goal for us,” Minnick said. “That will then take care of anything that happens in the conference.” Nearly six months after his hire, Minnick’s new boss, Greg McVey, was hired as the new GCCC athletic director. The two have roots tracing back to DuPage College in Illinois from nearly two decades earlier. That has made the transition for both much more easily. “It’s extremely important that we recruit and retain the Kansas athlete,” McVey said. “We’re in their back yard and we want them to play, so I’m happy to see coach Minnick and the effort they are putting into recruiting Kansas kids. At least we’re trying. We’re not going to get them all. If they’re a good

fit, then we’ve done our job.” McVey said that in his short time on the job he has been impressed with the work ethic of Minnick and his staff. “They’re doing a great job and putting us in a position to be competitive in the conference and nationally,” McVey said. “That makes for a good mix. Tom’s passion for the game is high and he wants to develop kids in the classroom, on the field and for life skills. You want to win, but you also want to do it the right way.” McVey observed that some of the roster restrictions that are two years down the road will be felt throughout the conference, but says he sees some options for other changes down the road, too. “I’d like for them to leave it up to each institution as to their roster size and the make-up of those rosters,” McVey said. “Some schools are in areas where there’s more population and maybe you don’t need as many out-of-staters and they have more players to draw from. Here, we’re less populated and we need to fill out our roster in a different way. I think there’s merit in that.” McVey and Minnick both agreed that cultivating the relationships with local, area and statewide high school coaches remains on their radar screen for the future. “It can be done with in-state players mixing with out-of-state players,” Minnick said. “We’re going to remain very competitive, but make no mistake; we’re going after the Kansas kids and want them to know we want them here if they can play for us.”

Brett Marshall is a long-time sports writer from southwest Kansas who previously served as the sports editor of the Garden City Telegram. In a 20-year sports writing career, Marshall worked for daily newspapers in Fort Scott, Dodge City, Hutchinson, Salina and Garden City. *This feature is presented in partnership with Kansas Pregame sponsor Garden City Community College. For more information about the college visit www.gcccks.edu.

Thomas/from page 33_________________________________________________________________________________ scoring offense last year. However, the defense has been statistically worse than ’16 with a combined tally of 21.1 points allowed in ’17-18 combined. This year, Alexander has already decided to start Thomas at free safety. “He is a heckuva defensive player, too, and he may be a better free safety than he is the others,” Alexander said. Topeka High returns quarterback Da’Vonshai Harden, a three-year starter and a close friend of Thomas for many years. Harden has committed to KU. Topeka’s defense features several talented transfers, along with senior defensive lineman Troy James. “They are all seniors,” Alexander said. “They have all played a lot of football. We are really excited defensively this year. I think this could be the best defense we’ve had in a long time, maybe if not the best if they all come together.” Topeka High has reached the quarterfinals in ’12 and ’18. The lone semifinal trip is ’73. The Trojans have never played in a state championship game. “While we haven’t kicked that door down yet to win a state title, I think that’s the only thing we haven’t done yet, but I think this year we have a shot to be really good,” Alexander said. “Everything looks good on paper.” Thomas is the oldest of four children with two brothers and one sister, Talayah, the starting point guard as a freshman for the Class 6A state runner-up squad. She averaged 7.6 points and a teamhigh 2.7 assists in the winter. Their father is from Utica, N.Y. and played college football at Washburn. Ky has enjoyed serving as a role model for his family and his brother’s friends. “He just gravitates toward people, and he has that smile,” Alexander said. Alexander, 79-48 entering his 14th season with the Trojans, called the whole Thomas family “great.” Tobian has coached well-known Topeka High players such as Mike McCoy and Teven Jenkins in the youth ranks. McCoy played for Kansas State, and Jenkins is a starting offensive lineman at Oklahoma State. In Topeka Public Schools USD 501, junior high students can chose where they want to attend high school, including Topeka High, Topeka West and Highland Park. Unlike many school districts, Topeka High has no junior high program teaching the same philosophies as the high schoolers. Alexander has long appreciated Tobian’s coaching for future Topeka High products. Ky has often

talked to McCoy and Jenkins throughout the years and chose Topeka High. “It was just easy for me to go ahead and make that decision,” Ky said. Ky quickly earned Division I offers and eventually had five: Louisiana Tech, KU, K-State, Iowa and Minnesota. At first, Thomas was not planning on going to Minnesota. However, Fleck, one of the youngest coaches in Division I and known for his confidence and charisma, convinced Thomas to come on a visit. Thomas was impressed from the first conversation with Fleck. Thomas spent two days in Minnesota, met personally with Fleck and watched a practice. Iowa was his second choice. “He said, ‘If you come to Minnesota, and you don’t like the city and you don’t like the facilities and you don’t like our coaching staff, you don’t ever have to answer my texts again,’” Thomas said. “He was that confident in everything.”

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