2019 Football Preview by The Examiner

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E X A M I NThe E Examiner’s R ’ S HHigh I GSchool H SSports C H Special O O LEdition: S P 2019 O RFootball T S SPreview P E C I A L

E D I T I O N

2019 FOOTBALLOnPREVIEW the rise

Previews: • Blue Springs Wildcats • Blue Springs South Jaguars • Fort Osage Indians • William Chrisman Bears • Truman Patriots • Grain Valley Eagles • Van Horn Falcons • Oak Grove Panthers • Lee’s Summit North Broncos • St. Michael Guardians + other area teams

INSIDE:

• The Van Horn Falcons are starting to soar thanks to new attitude and quality players like Jason Skivers (left) and Sean Mitchell • Page 16

• Blue Springs senior Stefan Black is one of three Wildcats to pull double duty this season • Page 2

THURSDAY • AUGUS T 29 • 2019

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The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

Triple double

Trio happy to do double duty to help Wildcats return to state championship game By Bill Althaus bill.althaus@examiner.net

t’s hard to think of indestructible offensive lineman Beau Stephens as anything but one of the premier players in the storied history of Blue Springs High School football.. But coach Kelly Donohoe chuckles when he says, “Beau was the baby on the offensive line last year with those big studs (Conrad Rowley, Jack Johnson and Patrick Robinson) he played with because they were all seniors and he was just a sophomore. “Now think about that for a minute. Beau is a sophomore, and he isn’t just holding his own out there; he is dominating. This year, he is all grown up – even though he’s just a junior – and he is one our team leaders. “He fits right in with other team leaders, players their teammates look up, to like Stef Black and Nicholas Durant. They’re all going to be twoway players, and they are going to be such an important part of our team. “And they’re easy guys to root for, because they’re great young men off the field.

That’s the best part of my job – getting to coach these guys and getting to be around them away from the game.” Stephens is a massive 6-foot-4, 320-pound offensive/defensive lineman who Rowley once said, “You can tell when Beau gets down to the practice field because he blocks the sun.” Black is a sleek 6-foot, 180-pound wide receiver/ defensive back while Durant is a chiseled 6-3, 225-pound defensive end/tight end. “When you think of each one of those guys, you just think athlete,” Donohoe said. “With Beau, we’re asking a lot of a junior to play both ways in the (Suburban) Big Six and against the tough non-conference opponents we face, but we know he can do it. And he can dominate on both sides of the ball. “Nicholas was an allstate defensive lineman last year, and he’s so good on the D-line, and we think he and Eli Stewart can make a big impact at tight end this year. “And Stef is just an athlete – he is so gifted and so talented – just like the other guys. He can be a difference maker as a wideout and as a member of the secondary. They all

G K s

Blue Springs seniors Nicholas Durant, left, and Stefan Black, right, and junior Beau Stephens will see duty on both sides of the ball this season. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER three are difference-makers, and we think they’re going to just get better and better as the season goes on.” Stephens is one of the most highly recruited linemen in the state, but don’t think for a minute he believes all he has to do is show up to dominate. “First of all, my coaches and my teammates keep me humble,” Stephens said with a grin. “I’m a big guy, and some people may think I’m a good player because I am so big, but I have been so lucky to have great coaches and great teammates. “And I work hard. I have to

work hard to be a part of this team, because we are expected to be a good team every year. And to be a good team every year, you have to be in the weight room in the summer, and you have to eat right and listen to your coaches and be a good teammate. “Every day I feel so lucky, so fortunate, to be playing for Blue Springs High School. Last year was really special playing with those three seniors who are all playing college ball now. They kept me focused and humble and made sure I worked hard.” Hard work is something

that Durant said makes this Wildcats team special. “You can’t take anything for granted when you play football at Blue Springs High School,” Durant said. “No one sees us in the weight room in the summer or working hard before the season starts. “There is a commitment to be a part of this team – a buy-in – that every player has to make. We’ve been through a lot of hard days in the weight room, hard days of practice, and that is what gets us ready to play William Chrisman in week one and Rockhurst in See TRIO / 6

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition The Examiner 410 S. Liberty St. Independence, MO 64051 Phone: 816-254-8600 Fax: 816-254-0211 Managing/Sports Editor Karl Zinke • 816-350-6316 karl.zinke@examiner.net Assistant Sports Editor Michael Smith • 816-350-6317 michael.smith@examiner.net Examiner Editor Jeff Fox jeff.fox@examiner.net Examiner Publisher Julie Moreno julie.moreno@examiner.net Cover Design: Karl Zinke

Grain Valley senior receiver Gavin Oyler and junior quarterback Cole Keller have spent extra time in the weight room and in practice this offseason in an effort to help the Eagles soar to new heights. BILL ALTHAUS/ THE EXAMINER

Extra work Senior receiver Oyler, junior QB Keller put in overtime to make Grain Valley a success

By Bill Althaus bill.althaus@examiner.net

Cole Keller marched on the field Friday night at Raytown South High School and experienced a feeling of euphoria. The junior quarterback, who emerged on the prep scene last year as a sensational sophomore for the Grain Valley High School football team, experienced a newfound confidence in a jamboree performance against Truman and Lee’s Summit West that he believes will carry over into Friday’s opener against Savannah. “The difference between being a sophomore and a junior quarterback is so different, so dramatic,” said Keller,

who marched his team up the field against the Patriots and Titans in the preseason tune-up. “I felt more like a leader in that jamboree than I ever felt last year in the regular season. I felt more in control. I felt more confident with my reads, and my checks and the way I reacted to different defensive looks. “I’ve grown a lot mentally and physically since last year and I can’t wait for the season to begin.” Keller and his favorite target, senior wide receiver Gavin Oyler, started last year on fire as Oyler caught three touchdowns for 218 yards in the Eagles’ 2-0 start last season in the Suburban See WORK / 6

Contributing Writers Bill Althaus Michael Smith Dave McQueen

INSIDE PREVIEW:

4 5 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 20 22 24 25 26+

Blue Springs South preview Blue Springs team preview Fort Osage team preview Truman team preview William Chrisman team preview Van Horn team preview Grain Valley team preview St. Michael the Archangel preview MSHSAA 2018-19 district assignments Cover feature-Van Horn Examiner Preseason Top 25 players Oak Grove team preview Lee’s Summit North team preview All-time Examiner Players of the Year Area high school weekly schedule Local team photos

On the cover ...

Photographers David M. Rainey Karl Zinke Bill Althaus © The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition is published by The Examiner and distributed to paid subscribers of The Examiner and also freely around Eastern Jackson County.

A special thanks to Van Horn juniors Jason Skivers and Sean Mitchell for taking time to pose for the cover photo shot by David M. Rainey. See their story on page 16, and the Van Horn preview on page 12.

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The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ BLUE SPRINGS SOUTH JAGUARS

Jags optimistic under new coach Jaguars glance Head coach: Matt Klein (first season, 31-42 overall). Assistant coaches: Dan Butt, Kyle Christian, Aaron Dunbar, Mike Fansher, Jamie Fournier, Connor Harris, Willie Horn, Don Horner, Chris Miller, Matt Reynolds, Doug Schibi, Greg Smith, Wes Thompson. Returning letter winners: 20 Returning offensive starters (2): Max Conard, 6-2, 190., sr., QB; Nahshon Rick, 5-10, 185, sr., RB. Returning defensive starters (4): Ben Bryan, 6-0, 230, jr., DE; Luke Fellers, 6-3, 195, jr., S; Gabe Ehindero, 5-11, 255, sr., DL; Aden Birdwell, 6-3, 230, jr., DE. Others to watch: Jaylon Johnson, 6-2, 190, sr., WR/S; Isaiah Frost, 5-9, 180, jr., WR/DB; Jayden Steele, 5-8, 160, jr., WR/DB; MJ Overstreet, 5-10, 175, soph., RB/FS; Victor Fuentes, 5-10, 245, sr., OL/DL; Ben Allen, 6-1, 275, sr. OL.

Jaguars’ 2019 schedule Date/Opponent Aug. 24 — at Raytown Aug. 31 — Raymore-Peculiar Sept. 7 — at Lee’s Summit West Sept. 14 — Rockhurst Sept. 21 — at Blue Springs Sept. 28 — William Chrisman Oct. 5 — at Park Hill Oct. 12 — Park Hill South Oct. 19 — at Lee’s Summit North Oct. 20 — First round of district All home games played at Larry Stewart Memorial Stadium, Blue Springs South High School

Helping lead the Blue Springs South Jaguars this season will be, front row, from left to right: Cole Wagner, Victor Fuentes, Connor Edmonson, Isaiah Frost; back row: Ben Bryan, Jaylon Johnson, Aden Birdwell, Luke Fellers, Max Conard. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

South ready for ‘fresh start’ under Klein By Michael Smith michael.smith@examiner.net

The Blue Springs South football team will be ushering in a new era as former Marquette head coach Matt Klein takes over the reins. He will be in charge of a Jaguar program that finished 3-8 last year under Jon Oyler and compiled a 12-22 record in the last three seasons. There is a different vibe surrounding the Jaguars as practices are being run differently than

a year ago, according to some of the players. “I like the way he runs things now,” senior free safety Jaylon Johnson said. “We are getting used to it. It’s a fresh start for everybody. Nothing is guaranteed for anyone. Everyone has to work hard to earn their spot.” And that has improved the mentality for the Jaguars, according to safety and wide receiver Connor Edmondson. “We are a lot more disciplined,” he said. “We run a lot

more for our mental toughness. They made that a big focal point for us this year.” Returning starting quarterback Max Conard echoed the sentiments of Edmondson and Johnson. “It’s definitely a whole different mindset with our hustle and our intensity on both sides of the ball,” he said. “I think we are going to be a lot more conditioned and we’ll beat some teams with our hustle. “We’re practicing a lot longer than last year, which is

Jaguars’ 2018 results Overall: 3-8 / Conference: 0-5 Suburban Big Six W-L/Opponent BSS-Opp L-Raytown 34-41 L-Raymore-Peculiar 34-35 L-Lee’s Summit West 13-41 L-Rockhurst 0-35 L-Blue Springs 14-38 W-William Chrisman 30-7 L-Park Hill 0-35 W-Park Hill South 33-3 L-Lee’s Summit North 2-19 W-Troy Buchanan* 35-14 L-Blue Springs* 21-31 * – Class 6 District 2 playoffs.

helping us prepare.” Of course, with any coaching change comes changes in philosophy on offense and defense. “We’re still working through a lot of kinks,” Klein

said. “We’re still trying to get our scheme installed because there have been tweaks defensively and a whole new offense. The goal is to get the kids to master See JAGUARS / 6

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ BLUE SPRINGS WILDCATS

Cats confident they can contend Wildcats glance Head coach: Kelly Donohoe (20th season, 185-48 at Blue Springs, 210-55 overall). Assistant coaches: Matt Marble, Tim Dade, Donte Watkins, Brian Banker, Ryan Luethje, Nolan Hochgrebe, Jed Paulsen, Ty Butler, Danny Malone, Tim McElligott, David Pollard, Joel Page, Jimmy Johnson. Returning letter winners: 22 Returning offensive starters (7): Beau Stephens, 6-4, 320, jr., OL; Cooper Willich, 5-9, 165, sr., WR; Patso Tapusoa, 6-1, 185, sr., WR; Eli Stewart, 6-2, 225, sr., TE; Xavier Loyd, 6-2, 175, jr., WR; Micah King, 5-10, 170, sr., RB; Quentin Fontenot, 5-10, 170, sr., RB. Returning defensive starters (6): Christian Mendez, 6-1, 210, sr., LB; Danny Wheeler, 5-11, 180, sr., LB; Jose Ramos, 5-11, 250, sr., DL; Nicholas Durant, 6-3, 225, sr., DL; Stef Black, 6-0, 180, sr., DB; Alex Hughes, 6-2, 185, sr., DB. Others to watch: Dom Harkness, 6-0, 180, sr., QB; DeAndre Thomas, 5-9, 170, jr., RB; Quin Ensor, 6-1, 170, sr., DB; Jack Jobe, 5-10, 170, sr., LB; Brett Lavar, 5-9, 175, sr., DB.

Wildcats’ 2019 schedule

These returning players will try to help lead the Wildcats this season. Pictured are, front row (left to right) Christian Mendez, Cooper Willich; back row: Dom Harkness, Stef Black, Nicholas Durant, Eli Stewart. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

Harkness hopes to lead Blue Springs to top again By Bill Althaus bill.althaus@examiner.net

Throughout a grueling preseason that has seen the Blue Springs High School football team work hard in an effort to make it back to the Class 6 state championship game, the team mood has been one of grit and determination. Following a successful Purple and Gold Game last Friday at Peve Stadium, the term jubilation could be added to that list. “The young guys brought it tonight, we found our quarterback and he has become a great leader and guys on both sides of the ball really played

well,” defensive end/tight end Nicholas Durant said. “It was a great night. We have some things to work on – no one ever turns in a perfect performance – but we have a lot of good things we can use as a foundation for next week’s opener against William Chrisman.” No one wore a bigger smile following the preseason scrimmage than coach Kelly Donohoe, as he watched senior quarterback Dom Harkness throw three touchdown passes, run for two more and direct an offense that was reminiscent of the days when the Wildcats dominated the metro area See WILDCATS / 7

Date/Opponent Aug. 30 — at William Chrisman Sept. 6 — Rockhurst Sept. 13 — at Lee’s Summit North Sept. 20 — Lee’s Summit Sept. 27 — at Blue Springs South Oct. 4 — Raymore-Peculiar Oct. 11 — at Liberty North Oct. 18 — Lee’s Summit West Oct. 25 — at Park Hill Oct. 20 — First round of district All home games played at Peve Stadium, Blue Springs High School

Wildcats’ 2018 results Overall: 9-4, Class 6 state semifinalist/ Conference: 5-1 Suburban Big Six W-L/Opponent BS-Opp W-William Chrisman 39-0 L-Rockhurst 0-17 L-Lee’s Summit North 27-28 W-Lee’s Summit 27-23 W-Blue Springs South 38-14 W-Raymore-Peculiar 35-21 W-Liberty North 28-26 L-Lee’s Summit West 6-7 W-Park Hill 36-23 W-Jefferson City* 36-0 W-Blue Springs South* 31-21 W-Columbia Rock Bridge* 29-27 W-Rockhurst** 13-14 * – Class 6 District 2 playoffs; ** – Class 6 state semifinal

JAGUARS From Page 4 that.” At the forefront of mastering the new spread offense is senior quarterback Conard, who transferred from St. Joseph Central last season. He completed 51 percent of his passes for 1,032 yards, four touchdowns and eight interceptions. He also rushed for 272 yards and three TDs on 75 carries. “He’s got a solid arm and is a very good athlete, too,” Klein said. “He has the ability to take off and make a play with his feet when he needs to.” At running back, Nahshon Rick is likely to get the bulk of the carries. He filled in as the starter last season after seniors Austin Terry and Dakoda Kenig went down with injuries and proved to be a success, rushing for 701 yards and

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview eight TDs on 170 carries. “I don’t see too many weaknesses with him,” Conard said of Rick. “He does a lot of things well. He is a good runner and a good blocker. He has great vision, and he’s pretty quick so he can beat people to the outside.” Added Edmondson: “He’s a really tough guy. He’s always trying to get that extra yard. He’s hard to bring down.” Conard and Rick are the only two returning offensive starters. The new offensive line will feature junior Aden Birdwell, junior Ben Bryan, Ben Allen, Victor Fuentes and Caden Kenner. Even with a brand new line, Conard has confidence in them. “They are starting to jell pretty well,” Conard said. “A lot of people don’t expect our O-line to be great this year. We’ll surprise some people.” At wide receiver, South has a good amount of speed. Isaiah Frost, Jayden Steele and Johnson, Ovi Johnson and

WORK From Page 3 Small Seven. While they have been working out together throughout the summer, a leg issue kept Oyler out of the jamboree and he is counting the minutes until he gets to return to action in 2019. “I missed my last jamboree, which I really hated,” said Oyler, who is rehabbing a minor knee issue, “but in the long run it was probably good because I want to be a big part of the team this season.” Both Keller and Oyler are spending overtime hours in the film room and working with coach David Allie for what they anticipate to be a special season for the offense and the Eagles in general. “People see this 6-foot-4 athletic kid and must think it all came naturally to him,” Allie said of Keller, “but let me tell you something about Cole Keller. The kid is the first to arrive and the last to leave practice. There are nights we literally have to kick him out of the film room. We have to turn off the lights and say, ‘Cole, it’s time to go see your family.’ “Now, I’m joking a little bit, but he does all the things no one sees to make himself a better player. And Gavin is the same kind of kid. They are both so highly motivated – and boy, do they hate to lose. Gavin wears his emotions on his sleeve a little bit more than Cole, but they do everything they possi-

Cortes Essex will make up the new pass-catching corps. “We feel like we are deep there,” Klein said of his wideouts. “We have guys rotating there in various formations. It’s good to have that depth.” On defense, the Jaguars return four starters – Bryan, a defensive end; junior safety Luke Fellers; senior defensive lineman Gabe Ehindero; and Birdwell, at defensive end. Birdwell and Bryan lead a defensive line that appears to be a strength. Fuentes, Dallas Lee, Ehindero and Charvez Carter are candidates play at defensive tackle. “We mesh really well,” Bryan said. “We have all returners there, so we all know that we’re doing. We’re fast, powerful, quick and strong.” Wagner will lead the linebacker corps, which has a lot of depth. Candidates to join him are Alex Israelite, Ethan Watson and Gage Shrout. “It’s a fun group to be around,”

bly can to help this team succeed.” Oyler said the motivation of last year’s playoff loss is all he needs to spend extra time preparing for this season. “I think a strong work ethic is something you get from your parents and it’s something that just comes instinctively,” Oyler said. “If I’m not working out, in the weight room practicing or watching film, I’m wondering what the guys on teams we are going to be playing this season are doing. And I don’t want anyone to outwork me. And I know Cole and the other guys on the team feel the same way.” Keller said the drive to succeed is something that has consumed him since he first put on a helmet and shoulder pads. “I hate to lose more than I enjoy winning, if that makes sense,” Keller explained. “I want to succeed. I want my team to succeed. I don’t know quite how to explain it – winning is just this amazing experience. “And if it means extra time in the weight room, extra time throwing with my teammates during the summer or extra time in the film room with our coaches, or watching at home, I’m going to do it because this is all so important to me. “Friday nights during the football season are magical, and we all know that this could be an amazing season – especially after what we accomplished at the jamboree. “I didn’t think I could get any more excited about our team, and I’m more excited than ever, we all are.”

Wagner said. “We are all very physical and we all mesh really well together.” In the secondary, Frost, Steele and Devon Schwieso are expected to see time at cornerback. Fellers will lead that unit as a safety. Last season, he had 46 tackles, including one for loss and five interceptions. “Devon Schwieso is senior for us that is a very good athlete and has some top-end speed,” Klein said. “There’s six kids playing back there that we think have a high ability.” Added Jaylon Johnson: “We can run with anyone. We won’t get beat over the top at much.” Even with a good amount of newcomers taking on prominent roles under a new coach, the players still have some high expectations “A big goal is to win (Suburban Big Six) conference and host a district game here,” Conard said. “We want to show off our new facilities, then hopefully make it to state.”

TRIO From Page 2 week two and on and on throughout the rest of the season. “Personally, I am so excited about going both ways, although I prefer to play on defense and be the aggressor. But if the coaches think I am ready to make an impact on the offense too, I’m ready for that challenge.” So is Black, who says his dual role offers a special challenge he is ready to embrace. “As a defensive back, I am always trying to get inside the head of a receiver, trying to figure out what he is going to do,” Black said. “And as a receiver, I am doing the same thing, wondering how the defensive back is going to try and cover me, and that’s a part of the game I really enjoy. “I’m just a competitive guy. I want to beat my man whether I am playing offense or defense and our coaches do such a great job of preparing us for any situation out on the field, we all enter each game with a lot of confidence. “And we all know this year can be special. We got close to going to state last year and lost at state two years ago. So many of us were parts of those teams as underclassmen, and now that many of us are seniors, we know we have one last chance to get that ring, and we’re going to do all we can to make that happen.”

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

WILDCATS From Page 5 and the state football scene. “I know I say this every year,” Donohoe said, “but I really like this team. And I’m not just saying that. Throughout the summer they worked hard and they really bonded as a team. “You can tell they care about each other, and that is such an important element to a team’s success. Tonight (at the scrimmage) we saw so many good things. I can’t wait to watch the film with the guys, break it down, show them all the good things they did and point out the areas that we can work on to become a better team.” Quentin Fontenot and DeAndre Thomas scored rushing touchdowns and wide receiver Cooper Willich had a big night, hauling in a 55-yard bomb. “The offense really looked good,” Donohoe said. “Dom has become a leader on this team. The guys really respect him, and so do the coaches. We’re going to have a three-headed beast at running back with Quentin, DeAndre and Micah King. “The line really looked good tonight and we did a lot of good things on the defensive side of the ball. Stef Black and Alex Hughes are two of the best defen-

sive backs in the state. “Danny Wheeler and Christian Mendez bring a real toughness to the linebacker position and Jose Ramos and Nicholas Durant are outstanding D-linemen. “Really, you could mention just about any position on the team and we have someone playing that position who will be an impact player this season.” But no player may make more of an impact than Harkness, who only wanted to talk about his teammates after the scrimmage. “I am surrounded by so much talent,” Harkness said, “they make my job easy. I have so much faith in my guys – if I get it near a receiver I know they are going to catch it. Our backs and our line did a great job blocking and the line opened some big holes when we ran the ball. “We scored a couple of touchdowns against the No. 1 defense and we did really well against the No. 2 guys. But what really impressed me was how we played as a team. “It didn’t matter whose number was called, or who was out on the field, everyone on the sidelines was supporting that group. I think we’re ready to go.” Highly recruited junior offensive lineman Beau Stephens agrees. “Everyone looked great tonight,” he said. “I like

After a season lost to injury, senior quarterback Dom Harkness was impressive in the Blue Springs preseason scrimmage. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

our blocking schemes this year, and the guys went out and executed and played so well. Dom has an arm, and our running backs did great. We all got pretty excited tonight and can’t wait for the opener next week (at William Chrisman High School).”

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The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ FORT OSAGE INDIANS

New Fort leaders eager to create own ‘legacy’

By Bill Althaus

bill.althaus@examiner.net

It’s a few hours away from his team’s annual Meet the Indians scrimmage, and, much like every player on his Fort Osage High School team, coach Brock Bult is excited and ready to go. “It’s time to get out under the lights to see how the guys respond without a coach out there on the field telling them what to do every series,” said Bult, who led his 9-5 Indians to the Class 5 state championship game last season despite a rash of injuries and a 3-4 start. “Our team overcame multiple injuries throughout the season to reach the state championship game, and that loss led to a focused off season and hard work from all members of the program. “We had many young kids get experience due to injuries, and we hope to use that experience to get off to a quick start this year.” While many newcomers from last year enter this year with a wealth of experience, two graduates have left huge shoes to fill on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.

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Head coach: Brock Bult (fourth season, 23-14 at Fort Osage and overall). Assistant coaches: Simo Atagi, Phillip Maggio, Joe Bedard, Quincy Tillmon, Zach Dudley, Rick Ammons, Josh Terhune, Sam Bennett, Brad Wackerman, Chris Ray, Derick Barker, Anthony Jacobs. Returning letter winners: 16 Returning offensive starters (6): Dominic Myers, 5-6, 150, sr., WR; Steven Gabb, 6-1, 285, soph., OL; Gavin Roller, 6-3, 250, sr., OL; Justin Dailey, 5-3, 190, sr. OL; Brycen Wetzel, 5-11, 200, jr., OL; Tyler Vogler, 6-1, 245, jr., OL. Returning defensive starters (6): Valentino Ulberg, 6-0, 255, sr., DL; Giovanni Willis, 5-11, 250, sr., DL; Brayden McBee, 6-1, 230, jr., LB; Trystan Floyd, 5-10, 150, sr., LB; Dakota Robertson, 6-3, 220, sr., LB; Nate Reiss, 5-6, 170, jr., LB. Others to watch: Ryan Bishop, 5-7, 240, sr., OL; Gavin Gilliam, 5-10, 140, jr., LB; Drake Shipp, 5-8, 165, jr., Zeppelin Velder, 5-11, 155, sr., WR; Corey Olvera, 5-8, 190, soph., WR; Blake Williams, 5-10, 150, jr., DB; Sam Carlson, 6-1, 150, sr., QB.

Indians’ 2019 schedule Date/Opponent Aug. 30 — at Raytown South Sept. 6 — at Lee’s Summit West Sept. 13 — Belton Sept. 20 — at North Kansas City Sept. 27 — Oak Park

Date/Opponent Oct. 4 — at Park Hill Oct. 11 — Raytown Oct. 18 — at William Chrisman Oct. 25 — Ruskin Nov. 1 — First round of district

All home games played at Fort Osage High School

Indians’ 2018 results Overall: 9-5, Class 5 state runner-up / Conference: 4-1 Suburban Middle Seven W-L/Opponent FO-Opp W-Raytown South 35-6 L-Lee’s Summit West 15-22 W-Belton 40-6 L-North Kansas City 18-19 W-Oak Park 21-14 L-Park Hill 7-23 L-Raytown 35-42

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W-L/Opponent FO-Opp W-William Chrisman 29-14 W-Ruskin 58-0 W-William Chrisman* 45-14 W-Belton* 28-7 W-Staley* 33-3 W-Columbia Battle** 46-30 L-St. Louis Vianney*** 14-28

* – Class 5 District 7 playoffs; **-Class 5 state semifinal; ***-Class 5 Show-Me Bowl

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Von Young IV, The Examiner’s Defensive Player of the Year, and Ty Baker, the All-Area first-team quarterback, are now freshmen on the Missouri State University football team. “You don’t replace guys like Von and Ty,” Bult said. “I mean, you put someone in to fill their positions, but those guys meant so much to this program for so many years. They were here when I took over as head coach and now, going into my fourth year, it seems funny going to practice and not seeing them out there.” A senior who might be unfamiliar to the Fort Osage faithful will take over at quarterback as Sam Carlson has been given the keys to the Indians offense. Carlson did not play football last season to concentrate on baseball. Once he stepped away from the gridiron, he realized just how much he missed Friday nights under the lights. “I missed not playing last year,” said Carlson, a former Indians ball boy whose older brother J.T. was a standout cornerback with the Indians. “I have so much work to do, and I’m doing my best to be a leader on this team.”

Indians glance

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The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

INDIANS From Page 8 Sam has become a leader out there, and that’s tough to do when you step away from the game for a season and them come back as a senior. “He knows the game, and he is a gifted athlete. We’re all excited to see what Sam does this season. We’re excited to see how the entire offense does.” He will have all-state receiver Dominic Myers to throw to, and he will get some help up front as many of the returning starters are offensive linemen. Returning seniors Gavin Roller (6-foot-3, 250 pounds) and Justin Dailey (5-3, 190), juniors Brycen Wetzel (5-11, 200) and Tyler Vogler (6-1, 245) and sophomore Steven Gabb (6-1, 285) all saw time as starters last season. “We need our skill people to develop, and they are,” Bult said. “We might not have that many starters back, but we have kids back this year

who played quite a bit last year. “We will lean on the kids in the trenches where we return most of our experience. Hopefully they can give time for the youth in our skill position players to develop. We expect to be ready to go again at the end of the year when it matters. Senior defensive lineman Valentino Ulberg is quick to say that he’s not Von Young – they don’t even play the same position – but the senior standout is expected to be a leader this teammates can rally behind like Young. He will lead a defense along with all-state senior lineman Giovanni Willis and senior linebackers Dakota Robertson and Trystan Floyd. “We’re brothers on this team, this is our home, this is all so important to us,” Ulberg said. “We’re improving every practice. We’re taking this serious – real serious. “Now is the most important time. In the past we had guys in front of leading the way – guys like Von. Now, that we’re seniors, it’s time for us to

BEST OF LUCK TO ALL TEAMS!

step up and create a new legacy this season.” While the Indians are ready for their second season on their new turf playing surface, Bult is using the grass practice field to help his team beat the heat. “It’s so much cooler on the grass. The kids appreciate it and so do the coaches,” Bult said. “We’ve worked hard all summer. We have a lot of new kids, but you can tell this is important to them. We’re all excited about the start of the season, but we have a lot of work to do before then.” Bult was one of the most respected defensive coaches in the state while serving on former coach Ryan Schartz’s staff, and he continued running the defense once he became head coach. But this season, Bult is working with the offense and turning the defense over to third-year assistant Zach Dudley. “Zach is going to do a great job with the kids on defense,” Bult said. “I think that my expertise on the defensive side will help me recognize

These players are expected to help lead Fort Osage this season, front row (left to right): Dominic Myers, Giovanni Willis; back row: Dakota Robertson, Sam Carlson, Valentino Ulberg. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

what our offense needs to do to have success. It’s like I told our guys, we’re all going to be learning together.”

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The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ TRUMAN PATRIOTS

Patriots ready to put the past behind them By Michael Smith michael.smith@examiner.net

A bevy of injuries, including one to starting quarterback Carter Brown, helped derail Truman’s 2018 season. Truman finished the season winless for the first time since 2013 and lost by an average of 31.5 points per game. That’s a season that this year’s seniors like offensive lineman Aaron Porter and Nate Clemons are ready to put on the backburner. Helping lead the Truman Patriots this season will be, front row (left to “We don’t try to forget that because right): Carter Brown, Jayson Boatright, Drake Hawley, Nate Clemons, it was an awful season, which we use Chris Rhodes, AJ Gietzen; back row: Quincy Scott, Aaron Porter, Myylan Townsend, David Brack, Devron Rivera, Britt Robinson. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

It’s good.

for motivation,” Porter said. “If we practice the same and act the same (as last year), we’re going to have the same record.” The players and head coach Charlie Pugh are confident that 2019 will be much different. Although Pugh admitted that depth may be an issue, his team returns six starters on offense and six on defense. “Last year was a tough season, and we just had to own it over the winter,” Pugh said. “We didn’t want to be there and don’t want to be there. This group See PATRIOTS / 18

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Head coach: Charlie Pugh (third season, 2-19 at Truman and overall). Assistant coaches: Jeffrey Burgett, Dealton Walton, Chad Hammontree, Josh Clausen, Dalton Hutching, David Randall, TJ Barnet. Returning letter winners: 12 Returning offensive starters (6): Aaron Porter, 6-4, 305, sr., OL; Carter Brown, 6-2, 175, sr., QB; David Brack, 6-8, 245, sr., OL; Devron Rivera, 6-4, 370, jr.; Britt Robinson, 6-2, 250, sr., OL; Nate Clemons, 5-9, 180, sr., WR. Returning defensive starters (6): Chris Rhodes, 6-0, 170, jr., DB; Nate Clemons, 5-9, 180, sr., DB; David Brack, 6-8, 245, sr., DL; Devron Rivera, 6-4, 370, jr., DL; Quincy Scott, 6-2, 165, jr., DB; Drake Hawley, 6-1, 205, sr., LB. Others to watch: Jayson Boatwright, 6-0, 215, jr., LB; Myylan Townshend, 6-3, 250, sr., DL; A.J. Gietzen, 5-10, 165, jr., WR/DB.

Patriots’ 2019 schedule

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Date/Opponent Aug. 30 — at Staley Sept. 6 — Liberty North Sept. 13 — Liberty Sept. 20 — at St. Joseph Central Sept. 27 — William Chrisman

Date/Opponent Oct. 4 — North Kansas City Oct. 11 — at Park Hill South Oct. 18 — Columbia Hickman Oct. 25 — at Lee’s Summit Nov. 1 — First round of district

All home games played at Truman Stadium, Truman High School

Patriots’ 2018 results Overall: 0-10 / Conference: 0-6 Suburban Large Seven W-L/Opponent Tru-Opp L-Staley 6-55 L-Liberty North 0-49 L-Liberty 6-37 L-St. Joseph Central 13-41 L-William Chrisman 20-52 * – Class 5 District 7 playoffs

W-L/Opponent Tru-Opp L-North Kansas City 0-40 L-Park Hill South 13-46 L-Columbia Hickman 0-21 L-Lee’s Summit 18-50 L-William Chrisman* 14-38

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ WILLIAM CHRISMAN BEARS Bears glance

Head coach: Matthew Perry (third season, 12-10 at William Chrisman and 105-53 overall). Assistant coaches: John McCall, Gene Wier, Jeff Meyers, Bob Lisher, Tom Sao, Terry McCray, George Sutton, Jason Middleton, Trenton Perry. Returning letter winners: 12 Returning offensive starters (2): Osi Nauer, 6-0, 205, jr., QB; Rico Alaniz, 5-9, 175, sr., WR. Returning defensive starters (9): Marcus Wigfall, 5-10, 150, sr., DB; Mason Walters, 5-10, 200, jr., LB; Lyndon Shell, 6-1, 215, sr., LB; Devin Braswell, 5-10, 195, sr., LB; Zach Rowe, 5-8, 180, sr., DB; Ralph Covington, 6-3, 215, soph., DE; JaVair Lankford, 6-4, 225, sr., DL; Osi Nauer, 6-0, 205, jr., DB; Alex Atagi, 6-4, 215, jr., DE. Others to watch: HyKem Massey, 5-11, 200, sr., OLB; Rico Alanix, 5-9, 175, sr., WR; Taimane Key, 6-0, 190, soph., OLB; Hosea Miranda, 6-0, 230, soph., C; DeYon Moore, 6-0, 150, sr., WR/DB; James Blair, 5-7, 230, soph., DL/OL; Andru Campos, 5-10, 210, soph., OL/LB; Nathan Campos, 5-10, 194, soph., OL.

Bears’ 2019 schedule Date/Opponent Aug. 30 — Blue Springs Sept. 6 — at North Kansas City Sept. 13 — at Oak Park Sept. 20 — Raytown Sept. 27 — at Truman

Date/Opponent Oct. 4 — Blue Springs South Oct. 11 — at Ruskin Oct. 18 — Fort Osage Oct. 25 — at Belton Nov. 1 — First round of district

All home games played at Independence All-School Stadium, William Chrisman

Bears’ 2018 results

These returning players will help lead William Chrisman. Pictured are, front row, from left to right: Mason Walters and Devin Braswell; back row: Osi Nauer, Alex Atagi, Marcus Wigfall. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

Overall: 5-6 / Conference: 3-3 Suburban Middle Seven W-L/Opponent WC-Opp W-L/Opponent WC-Opp L-Blue Springs 0-39 W-Ruskin 52-6 L-North Kansas City 7-41 L-Fort Osage 14-29 W-Oak Park 28-7 W-Belton 41-38 L-Raytown 21-49 W-Truman* 38-14 W-Truman 52-20 L-Fort Osage* 14-45 L-Blue Springs South 7-30 * – Class 5 District 7 playoffs

Bears look to keep success while rebuilding By Bill Althaus bill.althaus@examiner.net William Chrisman football fans might need to rely on a program the first few weeks of the season as the Bears lost 20 seniors to graduation. “We’re going to be incredibly young and inexperienced due to the loss of those 20 seniors who were a catalyst to help make Chrisman football relevant,” Bears coach Matt Perry said as he enters his fifth season at Chrisman and third as the head coach. “The team has worked hard in the offseason and have set some lofty goals to take Chrisman football to new heights. Once again the Bears will face a really tough schedule with as many as five to six opponents being ranked.” That “tough schedule” starts off at home, against perennial power Blue Springs High School, a Wildcats team that seems poised to make another strong

run for a state title. “It’s like (assistant) Coach (Gene) Weir (a newcomer to the Bears staff whose Olathe North Eagles won six state titles from 1996 to 2002) told the guys, ‘You’re going to know what you’re made of after that first game.’ And he’s right. When you start out against the best, you are going to find real quick what areas need to improve.” While the Bears return nine starters on the defensive side of the ball, they return just two on the offensive side, and one of those players will be starting at a new position. “Our leading rusher from last year, Osi Nauer (6-foot, 205), returns and moves to quarterback due to the loss of Missouri Southern signee Dawson Herl,” Perry said. “Our new-look offense will have five new starters on the line, and that is one reason we wanted Osi at quarterback because he runs the ball so well.

“That unit is growing together under the direction of our new offensive coordinator Gene Wier and offensive line coach Bob Lisher. If the offense can find some balance it will be a good year.” Perry said the defense will have to carry the load for the Bears until the offense jells with so many new faces. “The defense will have to be the backbone for the Bears while our offense gains varsity experience,” Perry said. “We switched schemes last season and look to be even more aggressive this upcoming season with a stack, 3-3 defensive look.” The one thing the Bears will have trouble overcoming, especially early in the season, is an injury to a key player on either side of the ball. “Overall depth on our defensive line can be a problem if the injury bug hits at all during the season,” Perry said. “The defense is very long (with several players over 6-foot-3) but not very heavy, See BEARS / 25

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ VAN HORN FALCONS

Falcons’ expectations continue to soar

By Michael Smith

michael.smith@examiner.net

Van Horn made some major strides in 2018 and accomplished something that it never had done before as a program – win a playoff game. The Falcons defeated Raytown South 41-36 in the first round of the district playoffs before falling to traditional power Harrisonville 34-14 in the semifinals. It was a big step for a program that had mostly known for its struggles. Now head coach William Harris and his players look to take a giant leap this year and they aim to have the best season in program history. “I think it’s possible,” Harris said. “This is the first year where we don’t start a freshman. We’ve started freshmen for two years who are now juniors and seniors. It feels different for us as a staff because they are confident, they have seen everything and they have played in those games. “If we stay healthy and continue our momentum, we have These players are expected to lead the Van Horn Falcons. Pictured are, front row, left to right: Tavious a chance to be really good this year.” Brown, Devontae Telar, Aaron Maluia; back row: Jason Skivers, Sean Mitchell, Treyvion Paige, Jacob See FALCONS / 19 Kroeger, Drevion Downton, Cyrus Loar, Caleb Trevino, Caleb Tanis. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

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Falcons glance Head coach: William Harris (fourth season, 12-20 at Van Horn and overall). Assistant coaches: Anthony Morgan, Roshaad Byrd, Taron Johnson, Sylvester Gibson, Marion Holt, Leonard Bulock. Returning letter winners: 17 Returning offensive starters (5): Drevion Downton, 6-0, 175, sr., WR; Tavious Brown, 5-6, 205, jr., RB; Davontae Telar, 5-8, 190, sr., RB; Aaron Maluia, 5-9, 260, sr., OL; Cyrus Loar, 5-10, 280, jr., OL. Returning defensive starters (4): Jason Skivers, 6-3, 220, jr., DE; Jacob Kroeger, 5-10, 205, sr., LB; Treyvion Paige, 6-1, 180, jr., DB; Sean Mitchell, 6-1, 170, jr., DB. Others to watch: Caleb Tanis, 6-4, 190, sr., WR; Zante Byrd, 6-2, 200, sr., LB; Arlandes Mitchell, 6-0, 165, jr., WR; Marquan Whetstone, 5-10, 170, jr. RB/WR.

Falcons’ 2019 schedule Date/Opponent Aug. 30 — at Kansas City East Sept. 6 — at Butler Sept. 13 — KCK Bishop Ward Sept. 21 — Center Sept. 27 — Kansas City Northeast

Date/Opponent Oct. 4 — at Winnetonka Oct. 11 — Summit Christian Academy Oct. 19 — at University Academy Oct. 25 — at Pembroke Hill Oct. 26 — First round of district

Home games played at William Chrisman High School

Falcons’ 2018 results Overall: 7-4 / Conference: 3-1 Crossroads Conference W-L/Opponent VH-Opp W-L/Opponent VH-Opp W-Kansas City East 24-6 L-Summit Christian Academy 12-38 W-Butler 48-6 W-University Academy 48-12 W-KCK Bishop Ward 58-0 L-Pembroke Hill 7-44 L-Center 6-21 W-Raytown South* 41-36 W-Kansas City Northeast 70-6 L-Harrisonville* 14-34 W-Winnetonka 47-20 * – Class 4 District 7 playoffs

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ GRAIN VALLEY EAGLES Eagles glance Head coach: David Allie (sixth season, 30-25 at Grain Valley, 112-98 overall). Assistant coaches: Chris Barr, Gavin Grillo, Pete Carpino, Eric Stone, Chris Cochran, Craig Brown, Matt Curts, Steve Williams, Dominic Giangrosso, Ben Andes, Mike Tarrants. Returning letter winners: 21 Returning offensive starters (5): Jack Bailey, 6-1, 230, jr., OL; Parker Bosserman, 5-8, 150, jr., WR; Colson Donner, 6-1, 225, sr., OL; Cole Keller, 6-4, 190, jr., QB; Gavin Oyler, 6-1, 200, sr., WR. Returning defensive starters (8): Steele Blackmon, 6-4, 300, sr., DL; Seth Dankenbring, 5-8, 190, sr., LB; Trent Flake, 5-11, 180, sr., DB; Willie Lanear, 5-10, 160, sr., DB; Donovan McBride, 6-4, 280, jr., DL; Gavin Oyler, 6-1, 200, sr., DB; Chance Pittman, 5-10, 240, sr., DL; Brayden Terry, 5-10, 160, jr., DB. Others to watch: Tanner Bailon, 5-9, 180, sr., LB/RB; Quincy Jones, 6-1, 250, jr., DL; Josh McCoy, 5-9, 240, jr., DL; Hunter Newsom, 6-0, 185, jr., LB; Logan Pratt, 5-8, 140, soph., WR; Michael Sanchez, 5-11, 240, sr., DL; Jamore Goulden, 5-7, 150, sr., RB.

Eagles’ 2019 schedule Date/Opponent Aug. 30 — Savannah Sept. 6 — at Grandview Sept. 13 — Smithville Sept. 20 — at Platte County Sept. 27 — Winnetonka

Date/Opponent Oct. 4 — at Raytown Oct. 11 — Kearney Oct. 18 — at Ruskin Oct. 25 — at Raytown South Nov. 1 — First round of district

All home games played at Moody Murry Field, Grain Valley High School

Eagles’ 2018 results These seniors are expected to lead the Grain Valley Eagles. Pictured are, front row, left to right: Willie Lanear, Jack Knust, Jamore Goulden, manager Zach Aubuchon, Seth Dankenbring, Coleson Manade, Gavin Oyler; second row: Chance Pittman, Michael Sanchez, Triston Hartwig, Katrell Hurst, Joey Beach, Cameron Whitcomb; third row: Cavon Brooks, Trent Flake, Steele Blackmon, Colsen Danner, Tanner Bailon. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

Eagles looking to take another step forward By Bill Althaus bill.althaus@examiner.net The Grain Valley High School football team didn’t just survive its first season in the Suburban Conference – making the jump from the always competitive MRVC West – it enjoyed a great deal of success. Coach David Allie’s Eagles won their first Suburban Small Seven Conference game of the season against Grandview and went on to finish with a 5-5 overall record and 3-3 conference mark. “Last season was so different, going into a new conference, after being in the MRVC for so long,” said se-

nior wide receiver Gavin Oyler, who teamed with quarterback Cole Keller to be one of the more dynamic 1-2 offensive punches in the area. “We weren’t intimidated at all. It was just different. When we won our first game against Grandview, we knew we could play in the Small Seven. Now, we’re more experienced, and we know what to expect and ready to see what happens this year.” Senior linebacker Seth Dankenbring, who has a nose for the football, had a big interception in that win over Grandview last year, and he is eager to start his second year in a new conference. “Now is the time to work hard,

Overall: 5-5 / Conference: 4-2 Suburban Small Seven W-L/Opponent GV-Opp W-Savannah 34-6 W-Grandview 30-20 L-Smithville 0-29 L-Platte County 22-38 W-Winnetonka 28-6

W-L/Opponent GV-Opp L-Raytown 29-44 L-Kearney 7-31 W-Ruskin 51-14 W-Raytown South 48-12 L-Grandview* 20-27

* – Class 4 District 7 playoffs

to get ready for our first game and our second year in the Small Seven,” Dankenbring said. “A lot of us played last year as underclassmen, and we’re back and ready to go. We’re hoping this is going to be a special season because we have a good mix of players back on offense and defense and we’re all working hard – really hard – in practice.” The Eagles have five returning starters back on offense, including Oyler and Keller, a 6-foot-4 junior who hopes to take his game to the next level this season. “We were 5-5 last year and we want to be better than that this year,” Keller said, “and I think we can be. We all love football and I think that love we have for the game helps us work hard at practice.” That love of the game and work ethic includes coach David Allie and

his staff. “We are excited to start our second season in the Suburban Blue Conference,” Allie said. “With eight starters back on defense, the team hopes to increase its turnover output and limit big plays by opposing offenses. “Offensively, five returning starters look for more ways to provide explosive scoring opportunities as well as place a high emphasis on ball security. New additions to the kicking squad should help solidify that unit.” Allie can’t help but smile as he talks about his team, as he has reignited the competitive fire that was no longer a part of Grain Valley football when he was hired five years ago. “This is a football town,” Allie said. “The kids love football, our fans have been great coming out to support us and we want to give them something See EAGLES / 24

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL GUARDIANS Guardians glance Head coach: Kevin Page (third season, 4-15 at St. Michael and 36-70 overall) Assistant coaches: Travis Corbin, Jim Gulick, Andrew Pitts, Jerry Price, Kenny Wachter. Returning letter winners: 20 Returning offensive starters (11): Caleb Berry, 6-2, 225, jr., OL; Noland Boyer, 6-0, 175, jr., RB; James Collins, 6-2, 220, sr., OL; Ellis Edwards, 5-7, 145, soph., RB/DB; Travian Goodman, 6-2, 310, sr., OL; Brandon Lane, 6-3, 250, sr., TE; Nathan Luke, 6-2, 220, sr., FB; Damon Randolph, 5-9, 155, sr., WR; Daniel Rogge, 5-11, 160, sr., WR; Larry Smith, 5-10, 220, soph., OL; Sebastian Swingle, 6-2, 230, jr., OL. Returning defensive starters (8): Caleb Berry, 6-2, 225, jr., DL; Ellis Edwards, 5-7, 145, soph., DB; Travian Goodman, 6-2, 310, sr., DL; Joseph Kimbrough, 5-6, 145, jr., LB; Brandon Lane, 6-3, 250, sr., DL; Nathan Luke, 6-2, 220, sr., LB; Daniel Rogge, 5-11, 160, sr., DB; Larry Smith, 5-10, 220, soph., DL. Others to watch: Aamir Carter, 6-2, 205, soph., TE/LB; Jacob Edmundson, 5-6, 148, jr., TE/LB; Ethan Smith, 5-10, 145, jr., QB/DB.

These returning seniors are expected to help lead St. Michael, front row (from left to right): Damon Randolph, Zion Hawkins, Mike Jones, Anthony Kratofil; back row: Brandon Lane, Quinn Zoltek, Nathan Luke, Daniel Rogge, James Collins, Desmond Henry, Travian Goodman. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

Guardians look to make a difference up front By Dave McQueen Special to The Examiner

St. Michael the Archangel Catholic didn’t win a game the first year it fielded a football team. The second year it won four, three of them in succession. So what’s the next step for the Guardians? “What we’re really wanting is to show continued growth throughout the program, first with numbers, second with performance on Friday nights,” St. Michael head coach Kevin Page said. “It’s time for us to start winning games and establish ourselves as a program that’s going to be competitive each and every Friday night.” Page has 46 players out for the third year of football at the Catholic school in northern Lee’s Summit, up from 35 last year and

27 that first winless season. That’s a sign of progress for a building program. A bigger sign of course would be improving on last year’s 4-6 record. For that to happen, Page says, the veterans up front will have to pave the way. “If our offensive line and our defensive front seven can put the team on their back and shoulder a lot of that burden, that’s where I believe we have the best shot at being our most successful,” Page said. “If you can get a great front with one of those special players, then you get a really good mix of things.” St. Michael has such a player in Travian Goodman, a 6-foot-2, 310-pound senior. One of 20 returning starters, Goodman will anchor the Guardians’ offensive line with 6-2, 225-pound senior Caleb Berry. Brandon Lane, a 6-3,

250-pound senior who was verbally committed to South Dakota State, will start at defensive end and tight end. Nathan Luke, a 6-2, 220-pound senior, heads up the linebacking corps. “There’s been a lot of teams with decent athletes but not great athletes that do really well because they’re really good up front,” Page said. “And that’s what I want us to be this year and I’ve told our guys that. They know our success is going to be based on how well they perform.” Page will be counting on that line to give new quarterback Ethan Smith a chance to gain some experience. Smith, a 5-10, 145-pound junior, played sparingly last season behind 1,000-yard passer Alec Alaiwat. The receivers, who also make up the defensive backfield, are also untested.

Guardians’ 2019 schedule Date/Opponent Aug. 30 — at Summit Christian Sept. 6 — at St. Pius X Sept. 13 — at Fair Grove Sept. 20 — Lone Jack Sept. 27 — KC Southeast**

Date/Opponent Oct. 4 — at Cass Midway Oct. 11 — at Pierce City Oct. 18 — Center* Oct. 25 — Clinton Nov. 1 — First round of district

All home games played at BAC Stadium, Lee’s Summit North High School, *Lee’s Summit West High School) or **Rockhurst

Guardians’ 2018 results Overall: 4-6 W-L/Opponent SMA-Opp W-L/Opponent SMA-Opp L-University Academy 17-48 W-Drexel 41-0 L-St. Pius X 25-36 L-Pierce City 16-34 L-Fair Grove 0-42 L-Center 7-42 W-Lone Jack 52-21 W-Clinton 35-13 W-Kansas City Southeast 43-6 L-Lafayette County* 7-49 * – Class 2 District 7 playoffs

But Page does have plenty of players who can run the ball. Sophomore Ellis Edwards, junior Nolan Boyer and senior Damon Randolph rushed for about 200 yards and three touchdowns apiece last season. With a strong line and an inexperienced air game, Page said all three will get plenty of carries. “I think we will do that as much as we can,” Page said. “If somebody’s hot that night, we’ll ride that wave as long as we can. All three of those players are two-way players, so I think it makes more sense for us to use our players as smartly as we can to maximize them on both sides of the ball.”

St. Michael won’t have to wait long for its first test. The Guardians, now in Class 3, travel to Summit Christian Academy and Class 3 powerhouse St. Pius X for their first two games. Class 3 Center and perennial Class 1 power Cass Midway are also on the schedule. They only have four home games: two at Lee’s Summit North, one at Lee’s Summit West and one at Rockhurst. “That’s kind of how we want it,” Page said. “If you want to beat good teams, you’ve got to play them. We’re playing some larger schools and we’re playing some smaller schools, but the smaller schools are competitive in those classes.”

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ 2019-20 MSHSAA DISTRICT ASSIGNMENTS The Missouri State High School Activities Association issues new district assignments every two seasons. Here are the football district assignments for the 2019-20 season. CLASS 6 District 1 CBC DeSmet Francis Howell Francis Howell Central Hazelwood Central Hazelwood West Pattonville St. Louis U. High District 2 Blue Springs Blue Springs South Fort Zumwalt West Columbia Hickman Wentzville Holt Columbia Rock Bridge Wentzville Timberland Troy Buchanan District 3 Jefferson City Joplin Springfield Kickapoo Kirkwood Lafayette-Wildwood Lindbergh Marquette Northwest-Cedar Hill District 4 Lee’s Summit Lee’s Summit North Lee’s Summit West Liberty Liberty North Park Hill Raymore-Peculiar Rockhurst CLASS 5 District 1 Fox-Arnold Jackson Poplar Bluff Imperial Seckman District 2 Eureka Mehlville Oakville Parkway South Vianney District 3 Chaminade McCluer North Parkway West Ritenour Webster Groves District 4

Columbia Battle Francis Howell North Fort Zumwalt North Sedalia Smith-Cotton District 5 Springfield Central Springfield Glendale Springfield Parkview Waynesville District 6 Branson Carthage Nixa Ozark Republic District 7 Belton Fort Osage Truman William Chrisman District 8 St. Joseph Central North Kansas City Oak Park Park Hill South Staley CLASS 4 District 1 Cape Girardeau Central DeSoto Farmington Festus Hillsboro North County-Desloge Sikeston Imperial Windsor District 2 Affton Bishop DuBourg Gateway Hazelwood East McCluer Riverview Gardens Soldan St. Mary’s District 3 Clayton Ladue Horton Watkins MICDS Parkway Central Parkway North Rockwood Summit St. Charles Westminster Christian District 4 Fort Zumwalt East Fort Zumwalt South Hannibal Kirksville Wentzville Liberty Marshall St. Dominic Warrenton District 5 Camdenton Jefferson City Helias Lebanon

Marshfield Pacific Rolla Union Washington District 6 Bolivar Carl Junction Springfield Hillcrest McDonald County Neosho Webb City West Plains Willard District 7 Grain Valley Grandview Harrisonville Raytown Raytown South Ruskin Van Horn Warrensburg District 8 Kansas City East Excelsior Springs Kearney St. Joseph Lafayette Lincoln Prep Platte County Smithville Winnetonka CLASS 3 District 1 Park Hills Central Dexter Doniphan Fredericktown Kennett Perryville Potosi Ste. Genevieve District 2 Bayless Confluence Prep Lutheran South Owensville Roosevelt St. Clair St. Francis Borgia Sullivan District 3 Jennings John Burroughs Miller Career Academy Normandy Priory Trinity Catholic University City Vashon District 4 Fulton St. Charles Lutheran Mexico Moberly Orchard Farm St. Charles West

Winfield Wright City District 5 Blair Oaks Buffalo Eldon Logan-Rogersville Osage Salem Springfield Catholic St. James District 6 Aurora Cassville Hollister Monett Mt. Vernon Nevada Reeds Spring Seneca District 7 Boonville Center Clinton Oak Grove Odessa Pleasant Hill Southern Boone St. Michael the Archangel Catholic District 8 St. Joseph Benton Cameron Kansas City Central Chillicothe Kansas City Northeast Pembroke Hill Savannah Kansas City Southeast CLASS 2 District 1 Caruthersville New Madrid Central East Prairie Herculaneum Festus Jefferson Kelly-Benton Scott City Festus St. Pius X District 2 Cardinal Ritter Carnahan Cuba St. Charles Duchesne Grandview-Hillsboro Lift for Life Academy Lutheran North Principia District 3 Ava East Newton Forsyth Houston Liberty-Mountain View Mountain Grove Strafford Willow Springs

District 4 Butler California El Dorado Springs Fair Grove Lamar Stockton Versailles Warsaw District 5 Centralia Christian Columbia Tolton Hallsville Hermann Missouri Military Academy Montgomery County North Callaway District 6 Bowling Green Clark County Clopton Highland-Ewing Macon Monroe City Palmyra Van-Far District 7 Hogan Prep

Holden Knob Noster Lafayette County Lone Jack KC St. Pius X Summit Christian University Academy District 8 Brookfield Lathrop Lawson Lexington Maryville Richmond St. Joseph Christian Trenton CLASS 1 District 1 Chaffee Charleston Crystal City Hayti Malden Portageville St. Vincent-Perryville Valle Catholic District 2 Ash Grove Cabool

Diamond Marionville Miller Pierce City Sarcoxie Thayer District 3 Cole Camp Greenfield Jasper Lincoln Lockwood Pleasant Hope Skyline-Urbana Tipton District 4 Adrian Archie Concordia Crest Ridge Cass Midway Sherwood-Creighton Wellington-Napoleon Windsor District 5 Carrollton Fayette Marceline Salisbury Santa Fe-Alma

Slater St. Paul Lutheran Sweet Springs District 6 Brentwood Harrisburg Louisiana Mark Twain Paris South Callaway South Shelby Westran District 7 East Buchanan Maysville Mid-Buchanan North Platte Penney-Hamilton Plattsburg Polo West Platte District 8 Gallatin Knox County Milan Princeton Putnam County Schuyler County Scotland County South Harrison

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The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

Ready to soar Once lowly Falcons look to continue recent rise By Michael Smith michael.smith@examiner.net

he Van Horn football program is on the rise. Last season, it won its first playoff game in its history after a 41-36 victory over Raytown South in the first round of the Class 4 District 7 tournament. And that wasn’t the only drought it ended either. Van Horn is not a program that has been known to consistently have its players go on to play in college. Earlier this year, dynamic all-state quarterback Shaun Ross ended a five-year drought for the Falcons having a player signing a letter of intent to play college after signing with Fort Hays State, where he will likely play as a cornerback. Before his signing, Kylan Alexander was the last Falcon to sign a letter of intent to play football, when he inked with Missouri Western in 2014. There may not be a drought like that this time as Van Horn has a couple of players who have received interest from college programs. Junior defensive end Jason Skivers got invited to camps at Kansas State, Notre Dame and Iowa State as he could be Van Horn’s first Division I signee in a long time. Senior running back/cornerback Devontae Telar is someone who has been contacted by coaches from North Dakota and South Dakota State after he impressed with 1,183 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns a year ago.

Skivers and Telar are a part of a quartet of players, along with senior left guard Aaron Maluia and linebacker Jacob Kroeger as the “four players the Falcons will lean on” for the 2019 season, according to head coach William Harris. They are expected to be a With quality players like juniors Sean Mitchell and Jason Skivers, Van big part of a sea- Horn is now a team earning attention from opponents and college son in which Van recruiters alike. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER Horn could have working out and now weighs 220 pounds. its best one ever with the majority of the “In the entire time he’s been here, I can team consisting of juniors as seniors. All probably count on one hand how many four have high expectations and have set workouts he’s missed,” Harris said. “If I some lofty goals. showed a picture of what he looked like in Skivers turned some heads last year eighth grade compared to now, you would after accumulating eight sacks and 60 see that a lot of hard work was involved. tackles. The 6-foot-3 linebacker has “He walked in the door and said, ‘I want come a long way since he was in eighth to go to Arkansas.’ I told him, ‘Hey, I will grade, Harris said. At that time, he was show you how to get there, and if you in the weight room constantly, always trying to get stronger. From eighth grade grow into a prospect like that, you’ve worked your butt off.’ He’s got some until now, Skivers has gained nearly 50 people with their eye on him. He has a ton pounds, mostly muscle, Harris noted. of potential.” He started at 175 pounds when he started

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview And he’s done just that. He’s become the Falcons best pass rusher and has grabbed the attention of college scouts. While he has been strong at rushing the quarterback since his freshman year, he’s recently made strides in another important aspect of being a defensive end. “Pass rushing is what he wants to do,” Harris said. “That’s his thing. But I have worked a lot with him on stopping the run and attacking it. I am excited to see if he can put it all together this year. I think he can.” Skivers aims to do that. He hasn’t received any college offers yet, but wants to accomplish something major to perhaps change that soon. “I want to break the sack record (22 in one season),” he said. “I think I can do it. I am a little more experienced than I was during my sophomore year. I was playing at 200 pounds. My freshman year, I was at 160. I got to get used to my weight, but I have great coaches to help me with that. That’s why I am confident I can do it.” Added Telar: “I don’t think anyone can stop him on the outside.” Telar has the same confidence in himself after having a breakout 2018 campaign. He’s expected to get the majority of the carries and wants to do something that no Van Horn running back has done since 2014, rush for more than 2,000 yards (J.J. Rivers had 2,214 that year). “I want to ball out this year and get a couple (of college offers),” Telar said. Added Skivers: “He can do it. He’s gotten a lot bigger since last year. He’s a great running back.” Harris had similar sentiments to Skivers. “He’s always been explosive and he’s always been a good running back,” Harris said. “This year is going to make or break him as far as potential for where he goes. He does some special things here on the field and when I see him do those things I look at my coaches and ask, ‘Is he that good?’” One thing that may have potential college recruiters overlook Telar is his size. Currently, he is 5-foot-8 and 190 pounds. However, Harris said he more than makes up for it with the intangibles he has. “He’s a dog. He’s the offensive leader,” Harris said. “When we are on the goal line, he’s yelling and getting guys going. He’s a guy who’s going to fight. You look at him and he’s a little undersized but he has the explosion and he’s still peaking as far as athleticism. I think he can be a (4.4 seconds 40-yard dash) kid. He’s a low 4.6 right now.” Maluia, on the other hand, hasn’t received any college offers yet, but he plans on having a big year. He’s the leader of the Falcons offensive line and has started on the varsiSee SOAR / 25

The Examiner’s 2019 Preseason

TOP 25 PLAYERS

PLAYERS Stefan Black II Ben Bryan Max Conard Nicholas Durant Trystan Floyd Kienen Gaskin Clay Griffin Dom Harkness Nick Henderson Cole Keller Brandon Lane Donovan McBride Mark McGhee Keyon Mozee Dominic Myers Osi Nauer Gavin Oyler Aaron Porter Nahshon Rick Dakota Robertson Jason Skivers Beau Stephens Davontae Telar Valentino Ulberg Giovanni Willis

SCHOOL Blue Springs Blue Springs South Blue Springs South Blue Springs Fort Osage Lee’s Summit North Oak Grove Blue Springs Blue Springs Grain Valley St. Michael Grain Valley Lee’s Summit North Lee’s Summit North Fort Osage William Chrisman Grain Valley Truman Blue Springs South Fort Osage Van Horn Blue Springs Van Horn Fort Osage Fort Osage

HGT. WGT. YR. POS. 6-0 180 sr. DB/WR 6-0 230 jr. DE 6-2 190 sr. QB 6-3 225 sr. DE/TE 5-10 150 sr. LB/DB 6-0 210 sr. LB 6-2 209 sr. RB/LB 6-0 180 sr. QB 6-3 225 sr. DL 6-4 190 jr. QB 6-3 250 sr. TE/DL 6-4 280 jr. DL 6-3 290 sr. DL 5-8 180 sr. RB/WR 5-6 150 sr. WR 6-0 205 jr. QB/DB 6-1 200 sr. WR/DB 6-4 305 sr. OL 5-10 185 sr. RB 6-3 220 sr. LB 6-3 220 jr. DE 6-4 320 jr. OL/DL 5-8 190 sr. RB 6-0 255 sr. DL 5-11 250 sr. DL

OTHERS TO WATCH: Blue Springs: Christian Mendez, 6-1, 210, sr., LB; Eli Stewart, 6-2, 225, sr., TE; Cooper Willich, 5-9, 165, sr., WR; Blue Springs South: Aden Birdwell, 6-3, 230, jr., DE; Luke Fellers, 6-3, 195, jr., DB; Grain Valley: Steele Blackmon, 6-4, 300, sr., DL; Seth Dankenbring, 5-8, 190, sr., LB; Willie Lanear, 5-10, 160, sr., DB; Jamore Goulden, 5-7, 150, sr., RB; Lee’s Summit North: Jaron Cole, 6-0, 200, sr., LB; Jaden Moore, 6-2, 180, sr., WR; Myles Shaw, 5-9, 180, sr., RB; Mason Urick, 6-3, 285, sr., OL; Oak Grove: Devin Alewine, 6-0, 284, sr., OL/DL; Nate Foster, 6-1, 168, sr., WR/DB; Kalen Kemp, 6-1, 205, sr., OL/DL; Brenden Marsh, 6-0, 164, sr., WR/DB; Eric McKinney, 6-0, 164, sr., WR; St. Michael the Archangel: Caleb Berry, 6-2, 225, jr., OL; Travien Goodman, 6-2, 310, sr., OL/DL; Nathan Luke, 6-2, 220, sr., LB; Daniel Rogge, 5-11, sr., WR/DB; Truman: David Brack, 6-8, 245, sr., OL; Carter Brown, 6-2, 175, sr., QB; Nate Clemons, 5-9, 180, sr., DB/WR; Chris Rhodes, 6-0, 170, jr., DB; Van Horn: Drevion Downton, 6-0, 175, sr., WR; Jacob Kroeger, 5-10, 205, sr., LB; Aaron Maluia, 5-9, 260, sr., OL/DL; Sean Mitchell, 6-1, 170, jr., QB/DB; Caleb Tanis, 6-4, 190, sr., WR; William Chrisman: Alex Atagi, 6-4, 215, jr., DE/OL; Devin Braswell, 5-10, 195, sr., RB; Mason Walters, 5-10, 200, jr., LB; Marcus Wigfall, 5-10, 150, sr., DB.

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

PATRIOTS From Page 10 of kids are a closer-knit group. We’ve had a better offseason. This is a season that we are not what our record says.” The biggest strength on offense could be the offensive line. Led by Porter, who has verbally committed to Ball State, the Patriots will have four starters returning with varsity experience. David Brack, Devron Rivera and Britt Robinson, all of whom are at least 6-foot-2 or taller and weigh 245 pounds or more. “Every single one of us has improved,” Porter said. “We’ve come together and are a lot closer this year. And we will be able to protect Carter better.” Carter, whose season was cut short due to an injury last season, is entering his third year as starting quarterback. He’s shown the ability to escape the pocket and throw on the run. “He’s really an all-around athlete,”

Pugh said of Brown. “If he wasn’t a quarterback, he could play wide receiver and he could play running back. He could play safety and he could play corner. He’s just that type of athlete.” Added Porter: “He’s gotten in the weight room this year and you can tell his throws are a lot more powerful and faster. He’s an overall great player.” Brown could be handing the ball off to Dimitri Smith, who is a candidate to replace last year’s starter, Andrew Owens, who rushed for 827 yards and nine touchdowns on 141 carries. Jordan McKinney, who received a few carries last season, also could see work out of the backfield. “I am looking forward to see what he can do,” Porter said of Smith. “He has a bunch of potential. I’d say he’s more of a shifty back. He has some quick feet.” Nate Clemons will lead the wide receiver corps as the lone returning starter at that position. Christopher Rhodes and Quincy Scott are two speedy wideouts who are likely to join him. A.J. Gietzen could be an option to

play there, as well. “Nate just gets open, I don’t know how,” Brown said of Clemons. “He finesses the route. He’s always open.” On defense, the Patriots return three players in the secondary – Rhodes, Scott, Clemons. Gietzen also will be a contributor. “We are pretty strong this year (in the secondary),” Clemons said. “Our (defensive backs) are faster than last year, so we can definitely move around a lot.” At linebacker, Truman returns just one player, Drake Hawley. Joining him will be new starter Jayson Boatwright, who has impressed coaches and teammates in practice. “They had a great summer, they just

need to get more reps,” Clemons said. On the defensive line, Truman has a lot of size. The Patriots return Brack (6-8, 245 pounds), Myylan Townsend (6-3, 250) and Devron Rivera (6-4, 370). Brack said it could be a strength. “We’re getting after it,” Brack said. “We had a good camp. We should get quite a few sacks this year.” Despite what happened a year ago, internal optimism appears to be surrounding this version of the Patriots. “We can win a district championship,” Brown said. “We’re an above .500 team this year.” Added Brack: “We have the talent for sure. That’s not an issue. We are all on the same page. We are looking good.”

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The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

FALCONS From Page 10 They will do it with a new quarterback in Sean Mitchell, who takes over for allstate selection Shaun Ross, who rushed for 1,022 yards and 13 touchdowns on 76 carries (13.45 yards per carry). He also passed for 565 yards and nine TDs. Ross, known for his big gains on scrambles, is the opposite type of quarterback that Harris expects Mitchell to be. Mitchell will be more of a traditional pocket passer, which Harris said fits the team well as it will surround him with plenty of talented skill position players. “Offensively, we have a chance to be explosive,” Harris said. “The ability of the quarterback to distribute the ball and run the offense effectively will determine our level of success. We have a chance to light some things up and be special. We don’t have a lot of weaknesses on offense.” At running back, Devontae Telar returns as the team’s leading rusher

from 2018. He had a breakout season with 1,183 yards and 15 touchdowns on 180 carries (6.57 yards per carry). Tavious Brown is also expected to get some carries after rushing for 414 yards on 79 carries. “I like to put the hit on defenders, then use my juke moves near the end of the game,” Telar said. At wide receiver Drevion Downton returns to lead that unit following a season in which he caught 12 passes for 228 yards and four scores. He is a part of a loaded receiving corps that features Caleb Tanis, a 6-foot-4 senior with a lot of upside. Marquan Whetstone and Arlandes Mitchell are speedy wideouts who are also expected to make a big impact. “Tanis is probably the most natural catcher I have had,” Harris said. “He played for us a sophomore and didn’t play his junior year. Now he is back. (Downton) is a kid who caught touchdowns for us last year and has great hands.” Blocking for the skill position players are returning starters Aaron Maluia and Cyrus Loar. Joining them are newcomers Jose Canales, David Ballard and

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Mason Igou. “I think we are going to be good, we just have to improve on our tackles,” Maluia said. “We feel like we’re going to do good this year.” On defense, Jason Skivers leads the way as a defensive end. He’s a pass rusher with a lot of upside who got invited to camps at Kansas State and Iowa State. He led the Falcons with eight sacks in 2018 and had 60 tackles. Lee Hamp could join him as a defensive tackle. He is a sophomore who is playing for the first time and has a ton of upside, Harris said. Maluia, Noah Wallace and Canales also likely will see time up front. “I think our defensive line has a chance to be really dominant,” Harris said. “(Hamp) is a kid who, if he can figure it out, he might be the best one of that group. He’s got great feet and he’s athletic. Our defensive line has a chance to be really, really good and cause some problems for our opponents.” Jacob Kroeger will lead the linebacker corps after he was third on the team with 93 tackles and had 12 tackles for

loss. Zante Bird will join him on that unit after playing in five games in 2018. Jacob’s brother Joseph is a newcomer who figures to factor in at the position, as well. “We’re great at reading the run and we are hard-headed, so anything they come at us with, we will be there to take care of it,” Kroeger said. In the secondary, Telar and Arlandes Mitchell likely will see time at the cornerback position along with Connor Curtis. Sean Mitchell returns with the most experience at safety after he led Van Horn with six interceptions a year ago. Trevion Page will be the other safety a year after he led the team in tackles with 95. “We got some fast guys out there, we just have to be able to read the wide receivers,” Telar said. “We can get back there and stop the deep ball.” With the experience the Falcons have and talented newcomers expected to contribute in a big way, Van Horn is raising its expectations. “We are aiming for a district championship and move on to state,” Maluia said.

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The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ OAK GROVE PANTHERS

Experienced Panthers look to put losing behind them By Michael Smith michael.smith@examiner.net

From 2011 to 2015, the Oak Grove football team was a juggernaut. In that span, the Panthers compiled a 51-11 record and won a Class 3 state title in 2014. However, the past three years have been completely different. Oak Grove has had three straight losing seasons, including a 1-9 mark in 2018. It was not the type of football that Returning to lead Oak Grove this season include, front row (left to longtime head coach Pat Richard had right): Eric McKinney, Ryan Skaggs, Richard Lopez; back row: Clay Griffin, Nate Foster, Devin Alewine, Cameron Keith, Brenden Marsh, Kalen Panthers glance Kemp, Brody Armstrong, Brennon Warrick. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

been accustomed to seeing. This year could be different, Richard said. He has 14 seniors and 11 starters return on offense and eight on defense. Unlike the last three years, the 2019 Panthers won’t lack experience. “It’s been three years since we had this many seniors,” Richard said. “Last year we had four seniors, and the year before that we had four seniors. The seniors had to take a lot of bullets the past two years because they had to play as sophomores, juniors and even freshSee PANTHERS / 21

Head coach: Pat Richard (eighth season, 59-34 at Oak Grove and 157-60 overall). Assistant coaches: Jamie Scully, Ethan Grumke, Sam Ellifrits, James Morgan, Garrett Higbee, Skylar Huse, Wayne McGinnis. Returning letter winners: 19 Returning offensive starters (11): Devin Alewine, 6-0, 284, sr., OT; Zander Brinegar, 5-9, 201 soph., OG; Ricardo Delgado, 6-2, 159, jr., K; Nate Foster, 6-1, 168, sr., WR; Garrett Hudspeth 5-9, 219, soph, OG; Hunter Jones, 6-2, 163, soph., QB; Cameron Keith, 6-2, 204, sr., TE; Kalen Kemp, 6-1, 205, sr. OT; Jamison Kirk, 6-1, 186, soph., RB; Brenden Marsh,, 6-0, 164, sr., RB/WR; Eric McKinney, 6-0, 164, sr., WR. Returning defensive starters (8): Devin Alewine, 6-0, 284, sr., DL; Zander Brinegar, 5-9, 201, soph., Garrett Hudspeth, 5-9, 219, soph, DL; Cameron Keith, 6-2, 204, sr., DE; Kalen Kemp, 6-1, 205, sr., DE; Brenden Marsh, 6-0, 164, sr., DB; Eric McKinney, 6-0, 164. Sr., WR; Brennon Warrick, 6-2, 171, sr., DB. Others to watch: Brody Armstrong, 6-0, 161, sr., WR/LB; Brendan Griffin, 5-9, 164, soph., QB/DB; Clay Griffin, 6-2, 209, sr., RB/LB; Sam Jennings, 6-1,216, jr. OL/DL; Chayton Kellum, 5-8, 161, jr., OL/DL; Tolin Lewis, 6-0, 192, sr., OL/DL; Richard Lopez, 5-10, 162, sr., RB/LB; Ryan Skaggs, 6-0, 206, sr., TE/DE; Clynton Stewart, 5-10, 164, soph, RB/LB; Kaiden Weir, 6-3, 207, soph., TE/DE; Adrian Whitehead, 6-0, 184, soph, RB/LB.

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Panthers’ 2019 schedule Date/Opponent Aug, 30 — Lawson Sept. 6 — at Blair Oaks Sept. 13 — Center Sept. 20 — at Kansas City East Sept. 27 — Odessa

Date/Opponent Oct. 4 — at Pleasant Hill Oct. 11 — at Excelsior Springs Oct. 18 — Harrisonville Oct. 25 — Warrensburg Nov. 1 — First round of district

All home games played at Panther Stadium, Oak Grove High School

Panthers’ 2018 results Overall: 1-9 / Conference: 0-5 MRVC West

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W-L/Opponent OG-Opp L-Lawson 17-32 L-Blair Oaks 0-48 L-Center 13-36 W-Kansas City East 47-12 L-Odessa 0-49 * – Class 3 District 7 playoffs

W-L/Opponent OG-Opp L-Pleasant Hill 14-50 L-Excelsior Springs 17-47 L-Harrisonville 29-41 L-Warrensburg 14-54 L-Odessa* 7-62

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

PANTHERS From Page 20 men. It’s prepared them for this year. “They’re ready to make things better and have a great year.” Senior Brenden Marsh agreed. “We’re getting back to the mentality that we can win any game,” he said. “We lost a lot of that confidence last year. But from the looks of it, this summer, we’ve been beating on teams that were beating on us last summer.” Sophomore Hunter Jones will return at quarterback. He started midway through his freshman season last year and completed 48 percent of his passes for 563 yards and three touchdowns. Richard is confident that Jones is ready to make some major strides this season. “His growth in the offseason has been pretty special,” Richard said. “He’s looked good. He does a little bit of everything. He throws the ball well. We’re not going to run him a lot, but he’s an athlete. We have enough skill players around him that he won’t have

to.” Some of those skill players include a deep group of running backs. Clay Griffin should see a good amount of carries after an injury cut his season short in 2018. Jamison Kirk also will get some carries a year after he rushed for 147 yards and three touchdowns on 43 carries. Nate Foster, Adrian Whitehead and Clayton Stewart also will join the committee. Foster is also the Panthers’ top returning receiver. He caught a teambest 15 balls for 287 yards and three TDs. Also returning are Marsh and Eric McKinney. Newcomer Brody Armstrong also could see time there. Cameron Keith returns as the starting tight end, while Ryan Skaggs and Kaiden Weir could also see time there.” “We’re very fast and skillful,” Marsh said of the wide receivers and tight ends. “We have good footwork and good hands. We’re a group to look out for.” Richard said he has been impressed with Keith’s progress. “He’s looked fantastic,” Richard said. “He’s had a great offseason and

has gained a lot of strength. He’s been catching the ball a lot better. He’s a weapon at tight end, not only blocking, but catching passes.” Most of offensive line returns. Devin Alewine, Zander Brinegar, Garrett Hudspeth and Kalen Kemp all started last season. Tolin Lewis, Chayton Kellum and Sam Jennings are candidates to fill in the fifth spot. “We like where we are at up front,” Richard said. “We have some great depth there.” On defense, Alewine, Brinegar and Hudspeth will rotate on the interior, while Keith and Kemp are expected to be pass rushers. “Cameron Keith is awful tough to block on the edge,” Richard said. “Devin Alewine is another kid inside who can get pressure on people.” Griffin will lead the linebackers two years after he led the team in tackles. Joining him are Armstrong, Richard Lopez, Clynton Stewart and Whitehead. “We have guys at linebacker that we’ve never had before,” Richard said. “We’ve never had this much depth

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21 there. We have six or seven guys we can rotate in and out. That’s an exciting thing.” Marsh will move from linebacker to safety after leading the Panthers in tackles with 119. The Panthers will return experience at cornerback as Brennon Warrick and McKinney will be the starters. Ricardo Delgado will be one newcomer in the secondary as a free safety. With so many starters returning, there is a different vibe surrounding the Panthers. “We have a family bond that we haven’t had in a couple of years,” Marsh said. “The sky is the limit for us. We can go as far as we want. If we keep our heads on straight and keep flying like we do, we’ll have a good outcome.” Added Griffin: “We have a lot of energy. We all get along. It’s something different. I think we will have a chance to win (the Missouri River Valley Conference West).” “Last year, was humbling a little bit to us,” he said. “We have to rebound and rise out of it. Nobody wants to repeat last year. We’ll be better for sure.”

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ LEE’S SUMMIT NORTH BRONCOS

These returning seniors are expected to help lead the Lee’s Summit North Broncos this season. They include, front row (from left to right): Joseph Thomas, Hunter Ross, Myles Shaw, Dayne Davis, Keyon Mozee, Mikey Robinson, Zjamar Turner, Gavin Faulkner; back row: Raheem Fisher, Zane Ragland, Mason Urick, Mark McGhee, Gabe Milliron, Wesley Martin, Jaden Moore, Kienen Gaskin, Jaron Cole. DAVID M. RAINEY | SPECIAL TO THE EXAMINER

Broncos looking to ‘maintain’ success By Dave McQueen Special to The Examiner

Lee’s Summit North football players are wearing T-shirts proclaiming “We Are Here to Stay.” The slogan isn’t just a reminder of the Broncos’ recent success; it’s also an indication of the new task that lies ahead. “Trying to reach success, I’m not saying it’s easy, but you can get there,” Lee’s Summit North head coach Jamar Mozee said. “Maintaining it is a lot harder.” It’s certainly a new perspective for Mozee and for Lee’s Summit North, which had known little success before Mozee took over the downtrodden program five years ago. After posting

winning records in two of Mozee’s first three seasons, the Broncos announced their arrival in 2018: A school-record 9-3 mark, a first-ever Suburban Big Six championship and a playoff run that ended with a close loss to Class 6 runner-up Rockhurst in the district final. Now comes the hard part. With a proven and powerful running back, a formidable and veteran offensive line and plenty of talent on defense, Lee’s Summit North has the manpower to match or exceed what it did last year. But even with seven returning starters on offense and six on defense, the Broncos still have some big holes left from last season, most notably at quarterback. “It’s a challenge,” Mozee said.

Broncos glance Head coach: Jamar Mozee (fifth season, 22-20 at LS North and overall). Assistant coaches: Mike Dickerson, Brian Glenski, Jason Jones, Jason Rogers, Jermaine Saffold, Mark Simcox, Tom Upman Aaron Vaeao. Returning letter winners: 40 Returning offensive starters (7): Keyon Mozee, 5-8, 180, sr., RB/slot; Myles Shaw, 5-9, 180, sr., RB/slot; Mason Urick, 6-3, 285, sr., OL; Wesley Martin, 6-3, 285, sr., OL; Gabe Milliron, 6-2, 275, sr., OL; Gracen Bell, 6-6, 220, soph., TE; Logan Muckey, 6-1, 175, jr., WR. Returning defensive starters (6): Mark McGhee, 6-3, 290, sr., DL; Kienen Gaskin, 6-0, 210, sr., LB; Mikey Robinson, 5-10, 205, sr. LB; Raheem Fisher, 6-0, 275, sr., DL; Jaron Cole, 6-0, 190, sr., LB; Dayne Davis, 5-9, 170, sr., CB. Others to watch: Jaden Moore, 6-2, 180, sr., WR; Adrien Block, 6-3, 215, jr., DE/TE; Jaden McGhee, 6-3, 210, soph., DE; Javion Watson, 5-10, 190 soph., LB; Zane Ragland, 5-11, 200, sr., LB; Hunter Ross, 5-10, 170, sr., S; Joseph Thomas, 5-10, 170, sr., S; Trevor Taylor, 6-0, 275, soph., OL; Mike Dolman, 6-2, 330, soph., DL; Angelo Hubbard, 6-4, 315, soph. OL.

Broncos’ 2019 schedule Date/Opponent Aug. 30 — at Liberty North Sept. 6 — St. Joseph Central Sept. 13 — Blue Springs Sept. 20 — at Park Hill Sept. 27 — Liberty

Date/Opponent Oct. 4 — at Lee’s Summit West Oct. 11 — Lee’s Summit Oct. 18 — Raymore-Peculiar Oct. 25 — at Blue Springs South Nov. 1 — First round of district

All home games played at BAC Stadium, Lee’s Summit North High School

Broncos’ 2018 results Overall: 9-3 / Conference: 4-1 Suburban Big Six W-L/Opponent LSN-Opp W-Liberty North 40-13 W-St. Joseph Central 41-7 W-Blue Springs 28-27 L-Park Hill 14-24 L-Liberty 35-39 W-Lee’s Summit West 35-14

W-L/Opponent LSN-Opp W-Lee’s Summit 42-0 W-Raymore-Peculiar 42-21 W-Blue Springs South 19-2 W-Raymore-Peculiar* 26-14 W-Liberty* 42-7 L-Rockhurst* 3-10

* – Class 6 District 4 playoffs

“Everyone looks good right now in the positions that we’re young at. They’ve played well in practices and scrim-

mages, but who are they? We have to learn that.” See BRONCOS / 23

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

BRONCOS From Page 22

Mozee has three quarterbacks battling to replace multi-sport star Christian Carter. Jack Kemper, a junior who backed up Carter last year, is the only one with any playing experience. Carlton Perkins, also a junior, was on the team last year but didn’t see any action; sophomore Trey Baker transferred in from Fort Osage. “It’s a competition,” Mozee said. “Don’t be surprised if you see them all on that first Friday. That could happen.” For now, Mozee isn’t rushing to name a successor to Carter, who accounted for 1,856 total yards and 30 touchdowns last season. None of them have the scrambling, all-around athletic ability of Carter, but Mozee said all three could give the offense a more balanced look. “Not having (Carter), it changes us,” Mozee said. “No doubt about it. Neither of these three guys are Chris-

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tian Carter but Christian Carter can’t do what any of these three guys can do. These three guys can throw the ball. And we have guys who can catch it.” Lee’s Summit North still has guys who can run the ball, but not as many as the past couple of seasons. Keyon Mozee, a 5-foot-8 180-pound senior running back, is expected to be the Broncos’ top ground-gainer this season. A Kansas State commit and nephew of the head coach, Keyon Mozee tallied 957 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. His uncle expects him to be even better. “He’s smarter, his big-picture skills are a lot better, he’s strong and we all know about his speed,” Mozee said. “He’s going to be hard to handle.” Even with Carter (848 rushing yards, 15 touchdowns), Ontario Russell (1,092 yards, nine TDs) and John Eldridge (454 yards, six TDs) graduated, Mozee doesn’t believe his nephew will have to replace all those yards. Myles Shaw, a 5-9, 180-pound senior who saw limited action last season, is developing into an able complement to Keyon Mozee. “Don’t be surprised if we don’t lose a beat in the run game,” the coach

said. “(Shaw is) going to come in and be a really good alternate to Keyon. He’s got a lot to prove too because he wants the ball.” Shaw and Keyon Mozee will also figure in a more potent passing attack, along with wideouts Logan Muckey and Jaden Moore, a senior transfer from Lee’s Summit, and tight end Gracen Bell. And they should benefit from a stout and experienced offensive line anchored by three returning starters: Mason Urick, a 6-3 285-pound senior; Wesley Martin, a 6-3, 285-pound senior; and Gabe Milliron, a 6-2, 275-pound senior. Urick has committed to play for the Air Force Academy. “When you’re big and strong up front, it puts everybody at ease,” Mozee said. “They do a lot of things well. They’re physical, they’re strong. They’re (quarterbacks and running backs) going to have some good blocks to run through.” The Broncos should be strong up front on defense too. Senior Mark McGhee (6-3, 290) is a returning starter on the defensive line along with senior

Raheem Fisher (6-0, 275). Kienen Gaskin, a senior who recorded 144 tackles last year, leads the linebacking corps along with fellow returnees Mikey Robinson and Jaron Cole. Senior Dayne Davis returns at cornerback, but the Broncos will be relying on first-time senior starters at safety. “McGhee is going to be pretty good,” Mozee said. “He’s moving around pretty well and is probably in the best shape he’s ever been. Kienen Gaskin can play. He’s physical, he gets his hands on the ball, he’s our leader on defense.” Lee’s Summit North, as always, faces another daunting Big Six schedule. Last year, the Broncos beat powerhouse Blue Springs for the first time in school history and won their second-ever over crosstown rival Lee’s Summit West. All the more reason for North to feel it’s here to stay. “Our kids are confident, not scared of anybody,” Mozee said. “We’re not really impressed by what anybody’s jerseys say anymore. Before, that was a problem here. But they don’t care, they’re ready to play.”

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The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

EAGLES From Page 13

special to watch this year. “We just had our Blue and White game and a lot of what happened was expected – our No. 1 offense scored six times against our No. 2 defense and our No. 1 defense pretty much shut down our No. offense.

“Our starters are pretty solid this and if we can stay injury free we could have a special season.” Dankenbring is expected to be a leader on a defense that includes eight returning starters, including senior linemen Steele Blackmon and Chance Pittman, senior linebacker Trent Flake, senior defensive backs Oyler and Willie Lanear, junior lineman Donovan McBride and junior defensive back Brayden Terry.

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Players The Examiner’s

of the

YEAR OFFENSE

year

SCHOOL

* Co-Players of the Year

DEFENSE

SCHOOL

1979 Mike Ingle Raytown Alan Lange Raytown South 1980 Jeff Mann Raytown Pat Connor Blue Springs 1981 Todd Scheerer Raytown South Phil Forte Raytown South 1982 Brad White Lee’s Summit Mark Smith Lee’s Summit 1983 Dalton Vann Lee’s Summit Gary Allin Raytown South 1984 Mike Hunter Raytown Mike Young Raytown South 1985 Craig Phillips Lee’s Summit Jim Bebee Truman 1986 Mike Scott Raytown South Jeff Summers Lee’s Summit 1987 Chris Works Lee’s Summit Roy McFarland Lee’s Summit 1988 Todd Spurck Lee’s Summit Tim Alvarado Blue Springs 1989 Jeff Handy Blue Springs Ben Andes Blue Springs 1990 Jeff Moreland Blue Springs Scott McKee Truman 1991 Tyrone Douglas Raytown Ryan Reid Blue Springs 1992 Maurice Daniels Raytown South Nathan Fulk Blue Springs 1993 Ryan Fry Oak Grove Joseph Haynes Van Horn 1994 Kevin Hunt Van Horn Tory Schwope Blue Springs 1995 Ladell Betts Blue Springs Jon Oyler BS South 1996 Ladell Betts Blue Springs Andy Sims Fort Osage 1997 Jamar Mozee Blue Springs Damon Dombrowski Truman 1998 Jamar Mozee Blue Springs Matt VerDught BS South 1999 Kegan Coleman LS North Justin McClain BS South 2000 Jeremy Braden Fort Osage Earl Jack* Blue Springs Mike Mendenhall* BS South 2001 Andrew Tuggle Blue Springs Bruce Ringwood Blue Springs 2002 Seth Williams Grain Valley Bruce Ringwood* Blue Springs Jamie Scully* Grain Valley 2003 Stinson Dean Blue Springs Mike LoPorto BS South 2004 Ben Kisner Chrisman Jaron Baston Blue Springs 2005 La’Darrian Page LS West Jeff Julian BS South 2006 Dalton Krysa Fort Osage Brian Hertzog LS West 2007 Cody Fogle Grain Valley Donte Strickland BS South 2008 Blaine Dalton BS South Gus Toca Blue Springs 2009 Darrian Miller Blue Springs E.J. Gaines Fort Osage 2010 Darrian Miller Blue Springs Tony Tanumai Fort Osage 2011 Connor Harris BS South Tony Tanumai Fort Osage 2012 Dalvin Warmack Blue Springs Elijah Lee* Blue Springs Mamu Tauiautusa* Fort Osage 2013 Dalvin Warmack Blue Springs Elijah Lee Blue Springs 2014 Skylar Thompson* Fort Osage Carlos Davis Blue Springs Aaron Graham* Oak Grove 2015 Skylar Thompson* Fort Osage Adam Cofield* BS South Jordan Salima* Truman Sima Thomas* Fort Osage 2016 James Bailey Chrisman Casey Still Blue Springs 2017 Daniel Parker Jr. Blue Springs Daniel Carson Chrisman 2018 Aveion Bailey Blue Springs Von Young IV Fort Osage

BEARS From Page 11 and will be challenged when teams try to run right at them.” Two who are ready for the challenges they will face this season are seniors Zach Rowe and Sevin Braswell. “Zach and I and some of the other seniors have been playing the game since we were little guys, dreaming about being on the varsity football

team,” said Braswell, a 5-foot-10, 195-pound linebacker. “We’re excited and we’re ready for this season. We have a lot of new players, but I know they’re going to work hard to make this season a successful one.” Added Rowe, a 5-8, 180-pound defensive back: “We’re making the most of every minute on the practice field and can’t wait for the season to start. Coach Perry has made us a family, and we all care about each other like we’re brothers.”

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ 2019 EJC HIGH SCHOOL WEEKLY SCHEDULE WEEK 1 FRIDAY, AUGUST 30 6 p.m. — Van Horn at Kansas City East 7 p.m. — Blue Springs at William Chrisman 7 p.m. — Raytown at Blue Springs South 7 p.m. — Fort Osage at Raytown South 7 p.m. — Savannah at Grain Valley 7 p.m. — Lee’s Summit North at Liberty North 7 p.m. — Lawson at Oak Grove 7 p.m. — St. Michael the Archangel Catholic at Summit Christian Academy 7 p.m. — Truman at Staley WEEK 2 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 7 p.m. — Rockhurst at Blue Springs 7 p.m. — Blue Springs South at Raymore-Peculiar 7 p.m. — Fort Osage at Lee’s Summit West 7 p.m. — Grain Valley at Grandview 7 p.m. — St. Joseph Central at Lee’s Summit North 7 p.m. — Oak Grove at Blair Oaks 7 p.m. — St. Michael the Archangel Catholic at St. Pius X 7 p.m. — Liberty North at Truman 7 p.m. — Van Horn at Butler 7 p.m. — William Chrisman at North Kansas City WEEK 3 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 7 p.m. — Blue Springs at Lee’s Summit North 7 p.m. — Lee’s Summit West at Blue Springs South 7 p.m. — Belton at Fort Osage 7 p.m. — Smithville at Grain Valley 7 p.m. — Center at Oak Grove 7 p.m. — St. Michael the Archangel Catholic at Fair Grove 7 p.m. — Liberty at Truman 7 p.m. — Kansas City (Kan.) Bishop Ward vs. Van Horn at William Chrisman High School 7 p.m. — William Chrisman vs. Oak Park at Staley High School WEEK 4 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 6 p.m. — Oak Grove at Kansas City East 7 p.m. — Lee’s Summit at Blue Springs

SOAR

From Page 17

ty team all four years in high school. He’s been working on improving his footwork and his pass blocking over the summer. Blocking for running plays has been his biggest strength over the past three years as he’s racked up pancake blocks throughout his high school career. Like Telar and Skivers, he’s set the bar high for himself. “I had about 40 pancake

7 p.m. — Blue Springs South at Rockhurst 7 p.m. — Fort Osage at North Kansas City 7 p.m. — Grain Valley at Platte County 7 p.m. — Lee’s Summit North at Park Hill 7 p.m. — Lone Jack vs. St. Michael the Archangel Catholic at Lee’s Summit North High School 7 p.m. — Truman at St. Joseph Central 7 p.m. — Raytown at William Chrisman SATURDAY, SEPT. 21 1 p.m. — Center vs. Van Horn at William Chrisman High School

7 p.m. — Park Hill at Blue Springs South 7 p.m. — Raytown at Fort Osage 7 p.m. — Kearney at Grain Valley 7 p.m. — Lee’s Summit at Lee’s Summit North 7 p.m. — Oak Grove at Excelsior Springs 7 p.m. — St. Michael the Archangel Catholic at Pierce City 7 p.m. — Truman vs. Park Hill South at Park Hill High School 7 p.m. — Summit Christian Academy vs. Van Horn at William Chrisman High School 7 p.m. — William Chrisman at Ruskin

WEEK 5 FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 7 p.m. — Blue Springs at Blue Springs South 7 p.m. — Oak Park at Fort Osage 7 p.m. — Winnetonka at Grain Valley 7 p.m. — Liberty at Lee’s Summit North 7 p.m. — Odessa at Oak Grove 7 p.m. — St. Michael the Archangel Catholic vs. Kansas City Southeast at Rockhurst High School 7 p.m. — Kansas City Northeast vs. Van Horn at William Chrisman High School 7 p.m. — William Chrisman at Truman

WEEK 8 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18 7 p.m. — Lee’s Summit West at Blue Springs 7 p.m. — Blue Springs South at Park Hill 7 p.m. — Fort Osage at William Chrisman 7 p.m. — Grain Valley at Ruskin 7 p.m. — Raymore-Peculiar at Lee’s Summit North 7 p.m. — Harrisonville at Oak Grove 7 p.m. — Center vs. St. Michael the Archangel Catholic at Lee’s Summit West High School 7 p.m. — Columbia Hickman at Truman SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19 1 p.m. — Van Horn at University Academy

WEEK 6 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4 7 p.m. — Raymore-Peculiar at Blue Springs 7 p.m. — Blue Springs South at William Chrisman 7 p.m. — Fort Osage at Park Hill 7 p.m. — Grain Valley at Raytown 7 p.m. — Lee’s Summit North at Lee’s Summit West 7 p.m. — Oak Grove at Pleasant Hill 7 p.m. — St. Michael the Archangel Catholic at Cass Midway 7 p.m. — Van Horn vs. Winnetonka at North Kansas City High School 7 p.m. — North Kansas City at Truman

WEEK 9 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25 7 p.m. — Blue Springs at Park Hill 7 p.m. — Lee’s Summit North at Blue Springs South 7 p.m. — Ruskin at Fort Osage 7 p.m. — Grain Valley at Raytown South 7 p.m. — Warrensburg at Oak Grove 7 p.m. — Clinton vs. St. Michael the Archangel Catholic at Lee’s Summit North High School 7 p.m. — Truman at Lee’s Summit 7 p.m. — Van Horn at Pembroke Hill 7 p.m. — William Chrisman at Belton

WEEK 7 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11 7 p.m. — Blue Springs at Liberty North

WEEK 10 FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1 First round of district playoffs

blocks last year,” Maluia said. “I want to have a least 10 every game.” Harris believes he can do that. Like Telar, Maluia is someone who may be considered undersized at his position (5-foot-9, 260 pounds), but makes up for it with his skill on the field. “He’s not a big kid, but he wrestles,” Harris said. “Since he is a wrestling kid, his ability to get people on the ground is something that I have always marveled at. I watch film, he’ll come around the corner because we pull him a lot and he’ll

put his facemask on someone and the guy just goes to the ground. Sometimes it’s crazy to see how he gets those big kids on the ground when we watch film.” Kroeger is in a similar boat as Maluia as he hopes to grab the interest of some college recruiters. He had a solid season with 93 tackles and four sacks but has set his goals even higher for his senior campaign. “Coach Harris told me my freshman year, ‘If you want to be somewhere great, you have to do something great. No schools have talked to me yet,

but they definitely will. This year I want to have 150 tackles. I want to be more aggressive and read my blocks better.” Harris praised Kroeger for his work ethic and his drive. “We’ll get done with practice at 6 o’clock, and he’ll stay afterward and he’s either on that hill running or on the sled,” Harris said. “He wants to be great. He’s a blue collar kid who puts his nose down and gets after it. I am really proud of him because he’s bought into the culture.” With these four leading the way, the culture of the program seems like it can only get better.

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ BLUE SPRINGS WILDCATS David M. Rainey • Special to The Examiner

SEE TEAM PREVIEW ON PAGE 5

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ BLUE SPRINGS SOUTH JAGUARS

SEE TEAM PREVIEW ON PAGE 4

David M. Rainey • Special to The Examiner

▼ FORT OSAGE INDIANS

David M. Rainey • Special to The Examiner

SEE TEAM PREVIEW ON PAGE 8

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ GRAIN VALLEY EAGLES

SEE TEAM PREVIEW ON PAGE 13

David M. Rainey • Special to The Examiner

▼ LEE’S SUMMIT NORTH BRONCOS Kara Stubbs • PEC Sports

SEE TEAM PREVIEW ON PAGE 22

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ OAK GROVE PANTHERS

SEE TEAM PREVIEW ON PAGE 20

Brock Stubbs • PEC Sports

▼ TRUMAN PATRIOTS David M. Rainey• Special to The Examiner

SEE TEAM PREVIEW ON PAGE 10

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ WILLIAM CHRISMAN BEARS

SEE TEAM PREVIEW ON PAGE 11

Karl Zinke • The Examiner

▼ VAN HORN FALCONS

SEE TEAM PREVIEW ON PAGE 12

David M. Rainey • Special to The Examiner

The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

▼ ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL GUARDIANS

SEE PREVIEW ON PAGE 14

David M. Rainey • Special to The Examiner

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The Examiner’s High School Sports Special Edition: 2019 Football Preview

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