2026 Utah Valley Prep Football Preview

8 new high school coaches ••• 21 team previews inside

Joe DuPaix, center, is a former college football coach who has taken over the American Leadership Academy program. COURTESY NAVAL ACADEMY ATHLETICS

UTAH VALLEY PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2026

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2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

TABLE OF CONTENTS On familiar ground............................................................................................................................4 DuPaix returns to Utah to take ALA to new heights All in the family...............................................................................................................................10 Peyton Higginson stands out for Salem Hills Keep an eye out..............................................................................................................................12 Preseason Valley Top 5-Top 10 Players to Watch-8 new coaches Utah Valley High School Football Schedules 2026......................................................................16 Team-by-team breakdowns.........................................................................................................18

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Joe DuPaix, in black, gets ready to lead the Southern Virginia football team onto the field. COURTESY SOUTHERN VIRGINIA ATHLETICS

ON FAMILIAR GROUND DuPaix returns to Utah to take ALA to new heights BY BRIAN E. PREECE

Herald Correspondent

A

long coaching journey has brought Joe DuPaix back home to the Beehive State. DuPaix — most recently the head football coach at Division III

Southern Virginia — said it was time to return to Utah after being away for over two decades in various roles. In June, he accepted the head coaching job at American Leadership Academy in Spanish Fork, one of eight new varsity head coaches in the Utah Valley.

“The biggest thing is we’ve been coaching college football for 23 years but we’ve only been in Utah for a couple of those years,” DuPaix said. “Over two decades being out of the state and always having the desire to get home, getting back to Utah or BYU or Southern Utah,

or just somewhere in Utah is something we kind of wanted to do.” The “we” part of the previous quote is attributed to DuPaix’s wife, Monica. Both have family in Utah and she is an integral part of the decision-making process.

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“She’s such a powerful woman,” DuPaix said. “She’s independent, she can run the family without me and that’s how it’s kind of worked at times with my career. With college football (coaching), it’s so hard on families. Without her and her continual love and support and just being independent and having the ability to run things, we wouldn’t be where we are.” The DuPaix name is definitely well known in Utah’s gridiron circles. DuPaix’s father, Roger, won eight state titles at Skyline, the very first when Joe was the quarterback. Joe DuPaix played at Snow College and then finished his career at Southern Utah which both provided him with memorable moments as a player. “Winning the Real Dairy Bowl and beating Ricks College twice when they still had a football program was definitely a highlight. We beat them at their place on Homecoming and then in the Real Dairy Bowl,” DuPaix related. “Then at Southern Utah, I set the national record for the most rushing yards at quarterback.” Those moments still stand below winning a state title at Skyline with his own father as a coach. Joe DuPaix’s son, Cooper, is just a sophomore who will be battling to be the Eagle starting quarterback. Joe DuPaix would love to repeat that kind of an experience with his own son. Still, molding ALA into a championship contender will be a lot of work. The charter school seems committed to getting their football program, as well as the other athletic teams, to the next level. The school is undergoing a huge renovation including the addition of a large indoor athletic facility. In DuPaix’s third year in his second stint as head coach at Southern Virginia, the moribund Knight program had posted just its second winning season in school history. But even with Southern Virginia turning the corner, the draw to come back to his roots was just too much to pass up. “When I heard about the things ALA was doing to make that commitment to athletics, I was intrigued,” DuPaix said. “And then when I started doing the math with Monica being in Utah and getting her here, and having the opportunity to coach the great kids that are here along

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Joe DuPaix, former head coach at Division III Southern Virginia, has taken over the program at American Leadership Academy in Spanish Fork. COURTESY SOUTHERN VIRGINIA ATHLETICS

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with that commitment, it really came down to that and getting my kids closer to their relatives.” DuPaix definitely wants to settle down, his youngest son just nine years old. So he plans on being at ALA for the long haul. DuPaix’s journey is pretty typical of a lot of college coaches with several stops along the way. He started his coaching career at Division II Missouri-Rolla as a quarterback and receiver coach, then came back to Utah at Riverton High School under Rick Bojak, who like his father is a Hall of Fame coach. Then from 2001-2007, he coached at FCS Cal Poly, spending some time as the offensive coordinator. DuPaix then had his first stint at Navy, coaching the slot receivers from 20082010. After that he was hired at BYU as the running backs coach for two years before being dismissed by then head coach Bronco Mendenhall in 2012. After sitting out one year, DuPaix took over the Timpanogos High School football program but then went back to the college ranks with two years as head coach Southern Virginia. A second chance to coach at Navy opened up and DuPaix was a slot receiver coach under Ken Niumatalolo. When Niumatalolo was fired, DuPaix went back to Southern Virginia for three seasons. Though he was fired by Mendenhall, he has no ill will toward him or BYU. In fact, he considers Mendenhall a friend and a huge coaching mentor and communicates with the current Utah State head coach frequently. Mendenhall’s organizational skills were one thing DuPaix took away from his two-year experience with the Cougar program. “With Bronco, it’s systems,” DuPaix said. “You better have your systems in place. One owner per one process or otherwise we will have failure. I look at Bronco and all the systems. Great coach with great success. I have zero grudges against Bronco or BYU.” Coaching at Navy was truly a special experience for DuPaix. A big coaching highlight there was beating Notre Dame twice — and, of course, working with Niumatalolo. “I was with Kenny for eight years and his mentorship was really loving the team and loving the coaches and having a real genuine interest in his players and hav-

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

COURTESY NAVAL ACADEMY ATHLETICS

Joe DuPaix, right, talks to a Navy player as an assistant coach. ing a real family atmosphere with the program,” DuPaix said. “Being at Navy was so unbelievable. You have the best of the best with their heart and their mind. They are so committed and so bonded with each other. I’m just so grateful those men and women are serving our country and defending us because they are all in. They are all in and willing to do what it takes.” And certainly DuPaix recognized the significance of the Army-Navy game. “That game means so much to the players and the institutions. Every player lays it on the line. It’s a game you can’t miss.” DuPaix said his coaching style will include blending the aspects of the game he learned from Mendenhall and Niumatalolo, along with what he learned from his father: That a football program is more than just Xs and Os. A big part of DuPaix’s philosophy will be organization and accountability, along with building a culture of love and brotherhood which COURTESY PHOTO, JOE DUPAIX he hopes will take the ALA Eagles to new Joe DuPaix, right, poses for a photo with former Navy head football coach Ken Niumatalolo. heights.

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Spanish Fork players celebrate during an overtime high school football game against Salem Hills on Aug. 22, 2025.

Provo’s Teave Brown, right, tries to escape the tackle of Ridgeline’s Coen Richards in a 4A football state semifinal at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Nov. 13, 2025. HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

JACOB NIELSON, DAILY HERALD

Skyridge fans react during a 6A football state semifinal game against Lone Peak at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Nov. 14, 2025. HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE DAILY HERALD

Springville’s Tua Naufahu (8) and Daniel Marquez take down Brighton quarterback Ryce Palepoi in a 5A football state semifinal game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Nov. 13, 2025. MARCIA HARRIS, SPECIAL TO THE DAILY HERALD

American Fork junior kicker Jace Worthington, left, gets congratulated by his position coach, Justen Naduald, after the Region 3 game against Lone Peak at American Fork on Sept. 26, 2025. JARED LLOYD, DAILY HERALD

Lehi’s Devaughn Eka (24) celebrates scoring a touchdown against Skyridge in a high school football game on Sept. 18, 2025. DARNELL DICKSON, DAILY HERALD

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Orem’s Brock Hawkins (21) reaches to break up a pass to Timpview’s Steel Richards in a 5A football state second round game on Oct. 31, 2025. DARNELL DICKSON, DAILY HERALD

American Fork sophomore receiver Ty Holmstead makes a tough catch during the Region 3 game against Lone Peak at American Fork on Sept. 26, 2025.. JARED LLOYD, DAILY HERALD

Lone Peak players take the field before the Region 3 game at American Fork on Sept. 26, 2025. JARED LLOYD, DAILY HERALD

Zack McCann of Timpanogos (10) tries to escape Benjamin Staheli of Salem Hills in a high school football game on Sept. 12, 2025. DARNELL DICKSON, DAILY HERALD

The Mountain View football team takes the field before a game against Payson on Aug. 15, 2025. DARNELL DICKSON, DAILY HERALD

Maple Mountain defenders celebrate getting a stop during the Region 7 game at Pleasant Grove on Sept. 5, 2025. JARED LLOYD, DAILY HERALD

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Salem Hills Peyton Higginson poses in front of the team scoreboard during team photo day on July 22. COURTESY SALEM HILLS FOOTBALL

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ALL IN THE FAMILY 2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

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Peyton Higginson stands out for Salem Hills

BY BRANDON GURNEY

I

Daily Herald

t’s very much a family thing, and for Salem Hills, it’s benefitted greatly from the Higginson presence through the years. Both coaches and players with the Higginson name have contributed big, sure, but it’s not just the specific name. Past Salem Hills stars like Porter Gustin, who went on to play for USC, Lauren Gustin (BYU) and John Nelson (BYU), among others, are related directly to the Higginsons, providing quite the athletic pipeline for the Skyhawks over the past decade or so. Top billing for this coming season, as far as the Higginsons are concerned, undoubtedly belongs with Salem Hills senior receiver and safety Peyton Higginson. Like most of the Higginson clan, Peyton presents a superior size and athletic combination that recently earned him a a scholarship to play football for BYU. Standing in at 6-foot-3, he presents quite the problem for both opposing offensive and defensive units and hopes to lead the Skyhawks to new heights during the 2026 football season. But it’s not just Peyton’s length that sets him apart. “What sets him apart on the football field is he really has a great ability to make big plays,” said Salem Hills coach Jeff Higginson, who also happens to be Peyton’s uncle. “It’s a unique ability where he can make catches on passes that simply shouldn’t be caught. He just finds a way and uses his wingspan to his advantage. He’s just a playmaker through-andthrough and probably the best I’ve ever coached in that regard.” Over the past two seasons Peyton has filled up the stat sheet, catching 85 passes for 1,191 yards and 16 touchdowns while contributing 105 total tackles and three interceptions. He’s done as much by showcasing his superior athleticism, but also a mindset that works to his advantage. “When that ball is in the air, it’s mine,”

BRIAN E. PREECE, SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

Salem Hills coach Jeff Higginson, center, talks to his team during a time out in a 4A football state playoff game on Oct. 24, 2025. Peyton said of his mentality. “It’s not even a choice to not go and get it. I’m getting that ball no matter what. I think it’s something I’ve been blessed with and that’s been my mindset every since I can remember.” As one could well imagine given his athletic pedigree, competition was constant and relatively competitive ever since he can remember. “I always competed against cousins older than me, and now I have younger cousins competing against me in everything from whiffle ball, golf or whatever, and it’s great,” Peyton said. “I love being a part of the Higginson family and it’s been a huge blessing for me.” Peyton has the type of athleticism that could have translated to competing at a top level in several sports, although football is what seems to run in the family most prominently. “I always kind of knew from my freshman year that football is the sport where I was going to have a future,” Peyton said.“So I decided to quit baseball and focus entirely on football.

I already had scholarship offers, but what I wanted was to be at my best so we could win a championship here at Salem Hills.” Peyton ultimately accepted an offer to play for BYU, and he’ll do as much after completing his two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. “The feeling I got when I was around BYU just couldn’t be matched,” Peyton said of his decision. “I love the coaches so much and then the network of support BYU provides after football is something I couldn’t refuse. BYU fits who I am with their culture and I couldn’t be more excited for the opportunity to be part of the football program there. It was the best choice.” According to Coach Higginson, BYU should benefit from Peyton’s presence, much like Salem Hills has over the past two seasons. “I know I’m his uncle, and so I may be a bit biased, but he’s seriously just a great, great kid in every way,” Coach Higginson said. “First and foremost he’s a terrific person. He’s a great teammate to be around and

he leads by example. He doesn’t talk much, but he never misses things, he’s always respectful to his coaches, and he’s just a special player that way. Sure, he’s a great athlete, but what truly separates him, I feel, is that he’s just a great, great leader and example to others.” As mentioned, the entire goal and focus for Peyton, at least for the next four months or so, will be to help secure a state championship for the Skyhawks. “I believe we have the team to do it,” he concluded. “I love my teammates and we have some really talented players who are great to play with. I feel we have the most talented receivers in the state with guys like Gordon Wilson, Joe Hughes and Ty McBride and then some really good new guys. Cash Hollingshead is the best quarterback in the state, and I could go on forever. Our offensive line is great and then all of our defense ... It’s all come together well and we can’t wait to get out there and do something special here at Salem Hills. We’re going to win a lot of games.”

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KEEP AN EYE OUT Preseason Valley Top 5-Top 10 Players to Watch-8 new coaches

2026 Preseason Valley Top 5 (with 2025 records)

1. Orem (12-2)

New coach but 5A defending champion Tigers are loaded.

2. Lone Peak (8-5)

Knights will compete at top of Region 3 as always.

3. Skyridge (9-3)

Falcons talent runs deep despite heavy losses to graduation.

4. Timpview (6-6)

T-Birds looking for bounce-back season under Travis Uale.

5. Springville (12-2)

Red Devils always find a way to compete. Others considered: American Fork, Maple Mountain, Pleasant Grove, Provo, Salem Hills, Westlake.

10 Utah Valley Players to Watch in 2026 Ian Aloisio, Sr. OL, Timpview

DARNELL DICKSON, DAILY HERALD

Orem’s Lopeti Moala (91) rushes at Timpview’s Ian Aloisio in a 5A football state second round game on Oct. 31, 2025.

Krew Jones, Sr. DE, Orem Kingston Stroshine, So. Oklahoma commit is a problem for op- LB, Lone Peak ponents.

Utah commit is a road grader on the offensive line.

Malik Sika, Sr. WR, Westlake

Peyton Higginson, Sr. WR/ DB, Salem Hills

Wonderful athlete who is practically unguardable on deep balls.

BYU commit will dominate on both sides of the ball.

Hyrum Stafford, Sr. WR/ DB, Mountain View

Jag Ioane, Sr. DE, Orem

Stafford has huge impact on offense and BYU commit just tapping into awesome defense. potential.

Another 100-tackle season loading.

Cash Taise, Jr. WR, American Fork Lots of colleges looking at this guy.

Dennis Tuaone, Jr. WR/RB/ QB, Timpview Most versatile athlete in the valley.

Uhila Wolfgramm, Sr. DE,

Maple Mountain BYU commit will demand double teams.

Taking the reins

There are eight new head coaches in the Utah Valley this season. Cody Gardner, Cedar Valley Andy Stokes, Orem Brock Condie, Spanish Fork DeShawn Perkins, Deer Creek* Nolan Nielsen, Timpanogos Joe DuPaix, ALA Viliami Halasima, Provo Mike Cole, Payson *Deer Creek is a new school in Heber City

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DARNELL DICKSON, DAILY HERALD BRANDON GURNEY, DAILY HERALD

Westlake’s Malik Sika celebrates a touchdown with teammate Slone Su’a.

Payson’s Cade Muir, left, shakes hands with Mountain View’s Hyrum Stafford before the start of a high school football game on Aug. 15, 2025.

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2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Orem students react during a 5A football state semifinal against West at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Nov. 13, 2025.

Provo’s Teave Brown, right, tries to escape the tackle of Ridgeline’s Coen Richards in a 4A football state semifinal at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Nov. 13, 2025. HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

MARCIA HARRIS, SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

Springville’s Beckett Burton (15) throws a pass against Orem in the 5A football state championship game at RiceEccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Nov. 20, 2025. HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE DAILY HERALD

Springville students react in a 5A football state semifinal game against Brighton at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Nov. 13, 2025. MARCIA HARRIS, SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

Springville’s Beckett Burton (15) throws a pass against Orem in the 5A football state championship game at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Nov. 20, 2025. HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

Lone Peak junior defensive lineman Bridger Dunn chases down American Fork senior quarterback Kapono Manuela during the Region 3 game at American Fork on Sept. 26, 2025. JARED LLOYD, DAILY HERALD

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

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Spanish Fork’s Poponatui Sitake, right, tries to break the tackle of Springville’s Stafford Small in a 5A football state second round playoff game on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025. HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE DAILY HERALD

The Salem Hills football team takes the field before a game against Spanish Fork on Aug. 22, 2025. JACOB NIELSON, DAILY HERALD

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Pleasant Grove quarterback Connor Ybarra throws a pass against Springville in a high school football game on Sept. 12, 2025.

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Utah Valley High School Football Schedules 2026

6A REGION 2

CEDAR VALLEY AVIATORS

Friday, Aug. 14 Olympus, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 Elko, Nev., 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at Crimson Cliffs, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 at Mountain Ridge, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Riverton, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 Copper Hills, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Bingham, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Corner Canyon, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9 Westlake, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15 at Herriman, 7 p.m.

WESTLAKE THUNDER

Friday, Aug. 14 Highland, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 at Pleasant Grove, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 Olympus, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Bingham, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Rancho Bernardo, Calif., 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 Herriman, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Copper Hills, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Riverton, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9 at Cedar Valley, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16 Mountain Ridge, 7 p.m.

6A REGION 3 AMERICAN FORK CAVEMEN

Friday, Aug. 14 at Pleasant Grove, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 at Mater Dei, Calif., 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at Timpview, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Farmington, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Layton, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at Davis, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24 at Lone Peak, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 Lehi, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 Corner Canyon, 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Skyridge, 7 p.m.

LEHI PIONEERS

Friday, Aug. 14 Maple Mountain, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 Mountain Ridge, 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29 St. Francis, Md., 4 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 ALA-Queens Creek, Ariz., 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Weber, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17 Skyridge, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Herriman, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at American Fork, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 Lone Peak, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Corner Canyon, 7 p.m.

LONE PEAK KNIGHTS

Friday, Aug. 14 at Crimson Cliffs, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 IMG Academy, Fla., 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at Skyline, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Bishop Gorman, Nev., 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Timpview, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at Corner Canyon, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24 at Lone Peak, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 Skyridge, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 at Lehi, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15 Bingham, 7 p.m.

SKYRIDGE FALCONS

Thursday, Aug. 13 at Mountain Ridge, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 Orem, 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29 Hun, NJ, 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 5 at Liberty, Nev., 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Skyline, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 17 at Lehi, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 Corner Canyon, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Lone Peak, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 American Fork, 7 p.m.

5A REGION 7

MAPLE MOUNTAIN GOLDEN EAGLES Friday, Aug. 14 at Lehi, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 Riverton, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at South Pasadena, Calif., 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Pleasant Grove, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Payson, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at Timpview, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 Springville, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Spanish Fork, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 Layton Christian, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Orem, 7 p.m.

OREM TIGERS

Saturday, Aug. 15 at Kamehaneha, Hawaii, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 at Skyridge, 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29 Mater Dei, Calif., 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 at Springville, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Spanish Fork, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Timpview, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 Pleasant Grove, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 at Payson, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 Maple Mountain, 7 p.m.

PAYSON LIONS

Friday, Aug. 14 Mountain View, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 at Juab, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 Kearns, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Timpview, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Maple Mountain, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at Springville, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 Spanish Fork, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Layton Christian, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 Orem, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Pleasant Grove, 7 p.m.

PLEASANT GROVE VIKINGS

Friday, Aug. 14 American Fork, 7 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 21 Westlake, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at Green Canyon, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 at Maple Mountain, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Springville, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at Spanish Fork, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 Layton Christian, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Orem, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 at Timpview, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 Payson, 7 p.m.

SPANISH FORK DONS

Friday, Aug. 14 at Snow Canyon, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 Salem Hills, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 Sky View, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Desert Hills, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Orem, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 Pleasant Grove, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Payson, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 Maple Mountain, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 at Springville, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 Timpview, 7 p.m.

SPRINGVILLE RED DEVILS

Friday, Aug. 14 at Alta, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 at Green Canyon, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 Provo, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Orem, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Pleasant Grove, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 Payson, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Maple Mountain, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 Timpview, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 Spanish Fork, 7 p.m.

TIMPVIEW THUNDERBIRDS

Friday, Aug. 14 at Layton, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 Corner Canyon, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 American Fork, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 at Payson, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Lone Peak, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 Maple Mountain, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 Orem, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Springville, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 Pleasant Grove, 7 p.m.

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Spanish Fork, 7 p.m.

4A REGION 8 DEER CREEK RIVERHAWKS

Friday, Aug. 14 Mountain Crest, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 at Hillcrest, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at Jordan, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Wasatch, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Uintah, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 Mountain View, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Timpanogos, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 Salem Hills, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 at Provo, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Park City, 7 p.m.

MOUNTAIN VIEW BRUINS

Friday, Aug. 14 at Payson, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 Tooele, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at Union, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Park City, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Provo, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at Deer Creek, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 Salem Hills, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 Timpanogos, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 8 at Uintah, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 Wasatch, 7 p.m.

PROVO BULLDOGS

Friday, Aug. 14 at Green Canyon, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 Crimson Cliffs, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at Springville, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 at Salem Hills, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Mountain View, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 Park City, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 Wasatch, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Uintah, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 Deer Creek, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Timpanogos, 7 p.m.

SALEM HILLS SKYHAWKS

Friday, Aug. 14 Granger, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 at Spanish Fork, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 Desert Hills, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Provo, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Park City, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 Timpanogos, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Mountain View, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Deer Creek, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 at Wasatch, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 Uintah, 7 p.m.

TIMPANOGOS TIMBERWOVLES Friday, Aug. 14 Juan Diego, 7 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 21 at Desert Hills, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at Bingham, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 at Uintah, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Wasatch, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at Salem Hills, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept 25 Deer Creek, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at Mountain View, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 Park City, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 Provo, 7 p.m.

Orem’s Will Rasmussen (in white) breaks up a pass to Springville Zach Henderson in the 5A football state championship game at RiceEccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Nov. 20, 2025.

WASATCH WASPS

Friday, Aug. 14 Cedar City, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 at Mountain Crest, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at Bonneville, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 at Deer Creek, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at Timpanogos, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 Uintah, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Provo, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 Park City, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8 Salem Hills, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14 at Mountain View, 7 p.m.

HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE DAILY HERALD

2A NORTH AMERICAN LEADERSHIP ACADEMY EAGLES Friday, Aug. 14 Carbon, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 at Parowan, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at White Pine, Nev., 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Ben Lomond, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 at South Sevier, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at Summit Academy, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 Providence Hall, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 South Summit, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9 at Delta, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct 15 Judge Memorial, 7 p.m.

Springville’s Treyton Harris (28) runs the ball against Spanish Fork in a Region 7 football game on Oct. 9, 2025. HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE DAILY HERALD

1A 8-PLAYER UMA-CAMP WILLIAMS MARAUDERS Friday, Aug. 14 at Panguitch, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21 Monticello, 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28 at St. Joseph, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4 Altamont, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 11 Monument Valley, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at UMA-Hill Field, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25 at Milford, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 Whitehorse, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 9 Water Canyon, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16 at Rich, 7 p.m.

Fall 2026 | 17

Payson’s Valentin Sanchez makes a catch against Springville in a high school football game on Sept. 19, 2025. HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE DAILY HERALD

18 | Fall 2026

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

After down year, Timpview ready for another run Head Coach: Travis Uale (2nd season) 2025 record: 6-6 overall, 5-2 Region 7 (3rd) Playoffs: Lost to Orem 40-22 in 5A second round

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Steel Richards 6-4 200 Sr. WR, Ma’a Moe 6-3 235 Sr. DL, Ian Aloisio 6-4 245 Sr. OL, Malaki Lesa 5-10 165 Sr. LB/DS, Dennis Tua’one 6-1 185 Jr. WR/ATH, Malosi Ilaoa 6-3 195 Jr. DB/WR

OUTLOOK

A turbulent offseason led to a tough 0-3 start for the T-Birds in 2026, but they recovered enough to finish third in Region 7 behind 5A champ Orem and 5A runner-up Springville. Uale, the former BYU defensive back, was an interim coach and was retained for good after the season. “We believe we have a team capable of competing for a region championship and a 5A state title,” he said. “We have a strong senior class, several juniors with varsity experience and a talented group of younger players who are continuing to develop. We have high expectations, but our focus will be on improving every

day, staying healthy and playing our best football when it matters most.” Junior Dennis Tau’one is a fantastic athlete who has played a variety of positions for the T-Birds, including quarterback, and combined for 1,600 yards of offense and 12 touchdowns. The offensive line is loaded, led by Utah commit Ian Aloisio. “Our biggest strength is the combination of senior leadership and young talent,” Uale said. “We have good length, athleticism and versatility, especially at our skill positions, along with several players who can contribute on both sides of the ball. We also have a group of juniors who gained valuable varsity experience last season. Our success will depend on how well we come together, communicate and play complementary football.” What is your favorite team building activity? “Having our players work at our youth football camp,” Uale said. “It gives them an opportunity to coach younger players, give back to our feeder program and represent Timpview football in the community. They learn servant leadership, patience, communication and responsibility. It also helps

BRANDON GURNEY, DAILY HERALD

Timpview quarterback Dennis Tuaone runs away from a defender during the 2026 season.

them understand that being part of this program is about more than what hap-

pens on Friday nights. They are helping build the future of Timpview football.”

ALA with new coach, new vision Head Coach: Joe Dupaix (New in 2026) 2025 Record: 4-7 overall, 2-2 2A North (3rd) Playoffs: Lost to South Summit 55-20 in 2A Second Round

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Marcus Twitchell Sr. OL, Mason Ober Sr, RB/DB, Cooper Dupaix Sr. QB, Bradley Sheridan Sr. TE/DL, Braxtyn Root Sr. RB/LB, Noah Huntsman Soph, RB/DB

OUTLOOK

Dupaix’s experience is vast: He was a running backs coach at BYU for two

years and worked at Navy for eight seasons in two different stints and was most recently the head coach at Southern Virginia University. Dupaix’s father Roger won eight state titles at Skyline and Joe Dupaix’s goal is to bring that kind of success to this charter school. He sees this season as a key foundational year. “We’re going to make a difference, we’re going to develop men of character,” Dupaix said. “We’re going to build a culture based on love where you take care of each other, work hard for each other, show up on time for each other. Not just on the football field but everywhere in the community.” Dupaix expects to run a traditional

spread offense. This might surprise some as he has mostly worked and played in offenses where the running game was featured including the triple option attack. “We’re going to throw the ball. We’re not going to run the triple (option),” said Dupaix. On defense Dupaix expects to run a multiple look defense. “We want a tenacious run and hit defense. If you play with high enough effort, you’re going to make some plays on defense,” added Dupaix. ALA has never been a football juggernaut but Dupaix definitely wants to change that. ALA is building stronger

connections with the other American Leadership Academy charters across the country and is definitely upgrading its athletic facilities and bringing a stronger commitment to its athletic programs. There are 25 players returning from last season and obviously Dupaix wants to build up the Eagle numbers going forward. “We have great kids in the program, we just need a bit more of them. And it begins with culture,” stated Dupaix. What is your favorite team building activity? “I love service projects. It allows our players to show appreciation, selflessness, and it bring the team together,” Dupaix said.

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Fall 2026 | 19

American Fork returns experienced group Head Coach: Aaron Behm (18th season) 2025 record: 7-5 overall, 1-3 Region 3 (4th-tie) Playoffs: Lost to Skyridge 56-29, 6A quarterfinals

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Dalin Afu Sr. DL, Noah Behm Sr. S/WR, Nate Childs Sr. QB, Sam Thompson Sr. LB, DC Fonua Sr. RB, Talon Roberts Sr. OL, Cash Taiese Jr. WR

OUTLOOK

Competing in Region 3 is always a challenge, but the Cavemen return quarterback Nate Childs, who split time with Kapano Manuela last season, as well as a number of talented skill position players for what should be a potent offensive attack. “We have a lot of great experience coming back from the past two seasons and we’re excited to see how that experience pays off for us,” Behm said. “All the teams in our region have a chance to have a special season this year. Davis and Mountain Ridge return a lot in 6A as well. “I think our team has some great leadership this year. We have a group that is really trying to hold themselves and their team to a standard of play and preparation, and that is going to help us so much through the long season. It is always exciting when

BRANDON GURNEY, DAILY HERALD

American Fork football takes the field for the first time this season vs Pleasant Grove on August 15, 2025.

you feel like your players, specifically the seniors, are starting to lead the team.”Taiese had 49 catches for 663 yards and three touchdowns as a sophomore and speedy Timpview transfer DC Fonua could have a breakout season as a running back.

What is your favorite team-building activity? “This summer we spent a lot of time together at football camp down at SUU,” Behm said. “It is always a great time of spending time together as a team and just being together 24/7. Of course we practice, but the meetings,

film, meals together really help bring the whole group together. This, along with the seniors floating the Provo River and playing in the Aqua Park at Deer Creek really help to build relationships that are so important to the chemistry of a football team.”

Deer Creek ready for inaugural season Head Coach: DeShawn Perkins (new in 2026) 2025 record: New school in 2026 Playoffs: N/A

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Ashton Nord Sr. LB/RB, Avery Edwardson Jr. DB/RB, Austin Wood Sr. TE/DE, Jake Woolstenhulme Jr. WR/ DB, Lance Simpson Sr. WR/DB, Bos-

ton Barnes Jr. DE/TE

OUTLOOK

Deer Creek High School will open its doors for the first this summer and and takes on the challenge of building a football program from scratch. Perkins and the RiverHawks will compete in Region 8 in Class 4A for Year 1. “We’re looking to create a new culture

and new standard for football in the Heber Valley,” Perkins said. Nord has been drawing attention this summer and is the RiverHawks most visible recruit. Region 8 will have eight teams this season with the addition of Deer Creek and Wasatch sliding down from 5A Region 7. The other teams include Mountain View, Park City, Provo, Salem Hills,

Timpanogos and Uintah. The RiverHawks open with a home game against Mountain Crest in Aug. 14 and face rival Wasatch at home on Sept. 4. What is your favorite team-building activity? “Our team summer camp, where the kids bonded as a team,” Perkins said. “They learned how to deal with adversity for the first time as a program.”

20 | Fall 2026

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Timpanogos motto is ‘Win As One’ Head Coach: Nolan Nielsen (new in 2026) 2025 record: 5-6 overall, 2-3 Region 8 (4th) Playoffs: Lost to Crimson Cliffs 48-27, 4A second round

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Ian Longhurst Sr. WR/DB, Tevita Mounga Sr. TE/DE, Logan Holloway Jr. QB/ATH, Zack McCann Sr. WR/DB, Richard Afoa Jr. OL/ DL, Andrew Sanders Sr. OL/DL

OUTLOOK

Nolan Nielsen takes over the program after spending the past several seasons on the American Fork staff. “Going into Year 1 with a new coaching staff and a new scheme, the players have really bought in,” Nielsen said. “They’ve worked hard this offseason and are excited to get back on the field. We have a decent amount of starters returning and a nice blend of some new faces that we believe can make a big impact this year. We really believe we can compete with anyone and look forward to the opportunity.

Our motto for the season is ‘Win As One,’ really working together as a team to win on and off the field.” Replacing quarterback Andrew Hillstead (5,597 yards, 56 touchdowns the past two seasons) is a big order, but there are some talented offensive players returning in Logan Holloway, Tevita Mounga and Zack McCann. The 6-foot-3, 235-pound Mounga will be a beast on the defensive side with Richard Afoa (5-10, 260) and Andrew Sanders (6-4, 250) anchoring the lines. “Our strength is our senior leadership,” Nielsen said. “We have a large group of seniors who have really bought into the culture and system. We feel really confident in the trenches as well.” What is your favorite teambuilding activity? “We’ve been lucky to have multiple speakers come,” Nielsen said. “The players really get a chance to interact with each other and grow a stronger bond together as a team.” Speakers have included former BYU and NFL running back Jamaal Williams and mental strength coach Nate Porter.

BRANDON GURNEY, DAILY HERALD

Former BYU and NFL running back Jamaal Williams talks to the Timpanogos football team on August 15, 2025.

Wasatch eyes improvement in Class 4A Head Coach: Derek Bringhurst (2nd season) 2025 record: 4-7 overall, 2-5 Region 7 (5th-tie) Playoffs: Lost to Timpview 40-15 in 5A first round

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Bryce Harr 5-10 160 Jr. QB, Aksel Wheeler 6-1 180 So. QB, Burke Seiter 5-11 195 Jr. LB, Wyatt Washburn, 6-5 190 Jr. WR, Ryne Ball 5-2 225 Sr. DT

OUTLOOK

The Heber Valley is home to two high schools this fall with the opening of Deer Creek, so Bringhurst and his staff has a challenge ahead in 2026. “Football is alive and well even after the opening of Deer Creek,” Bringhurst said. “We have a few of returning starters and are going to be young with very talented the guys in all positions.” Harr and Wheeler are tasked with re-

placing graduated senior Jay Bradley at quarterback, with Seiter and Ball lining up defensively as the Wasps move down to Class 4A in Region 7. “The strength of our team this year is definitely our leadership. We spent a lot of time on building a fantastic culture that has allowed these guys to personally grow Which has significantly benefitted our team. Yeah, Sean so far through our practices. Definitely a great vibe and culture.”

What is your favorite team building activity? “We have a coach on our staff that’s been here for almost seven years,” Bringhurst said. “He just got diagnosed with ALS a year ago. My favorite activity hands-down is to see the boys serve him when he’s here at the stadium. We even went over to his house recently to pull weeds and do a bunch of landscaping. We had more football players in his yard than weeds, but that didn’t matter.”

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Fall 2026 | 21

250 YEARS OF UNITED STATES PRESIDENTIAL HISTORY

will find highlights and lowlights Within these pages, readers as the character and political presidency is as vast and complex of triumph and failure, of human The story of the American quickly, Washington to — stories are designed to capture interest Each president, from George complexity. These snapshots into the history of the nation itself. its laws, and history enthusiasts a doorway imprint on the country, shaping offering both casual readers the present day, left a unique subject of the presidency. larger and endlessly fascinating culture and place in the world. require curiosity, it also inspires legacies of these leaders would this volume that in sparking of hope the is It Fully exploring the lives and That is 250 years, the American presidency research and a lifetime of study. exploration. For more than countless volumes, years of Fascinating Facts further and ideals. Chiefs: the ambitions to “Hail struggles, has reflected the nation’s to not the aim of this book. Instead, quirks, engaging facts, this book aims highlights memorable moments, By providing a collection of about Every U.S. President” unique, country this how presidency learning about that made each encourage readers to continue accomplishments and controversies familiar through the leadership of its and enjoyable way to become was founded, built and maintained providing an easily accessible and colorful details of presidential presidents. with some of the defining episodes history.

WILLIAM MCKINLEY

ANNEXED HAWAII:

EVERY - FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT President4Grover THE CHIEFShad Cleveland • HAIL TO rejected annexation requests by businessmen in the Hawaiian Islands, but during the SpanishAmerican War, public opinion and President McKinley held a more favorable attitude toward the idea, seeing the islands as having both a strategic and economic benefit for the U.S. At McKinley’s request, Congress voted to make Hawaii a territory on Aug. 12, 1898.

A photo of President William McKinley

PHILIPPINES REVOLT:

PARTY: Republican VICE PRESIDENTS: Charles W. Fairbanks (1905-1909. Roosevelt succeeded to the presidency Sept. 14, 1901, after the death of President William McKinley and the vice presidency remained vacant until 1905.)

BORN: Oct. 27, 1858 SPOUSES: Alice Hathaway Lee (married

PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY:

McKinley was the first president to ride in an automobile. He did so in a Stanley Steamer in Canton, Ohio, on Nov. 1, 1899.

80 • HAIL TO THE CHIEFS - FASCINATING

SWORN INTO OFFICE: Sept. 14, 1901 LEFT OFFICE: March 4, 1909

and the members of his cabinet.

McKinley Presidential Library & Museum 800 McKinley Monument Drive NW Canton, Ohio 44708 mckinleymuseum.org

The William McKinley National

in 1880, 1 child. She died in 1884 after the birth of their child.) Edith Kermit Carow (married in 1886, 5 children)

Memorial in Canton, Ohio.

Sources: whitehousehistory.org millercenter.org history.navy.mil history.state.gov britannica.com

FACTS ABOUT EVERY U.S. PRESIDENT

DIED: Jan. 6, 1919

WENT WEST AFTER HIS WIFE’S DEATH:

While studying at Harvard, Roosevelt met his first wife, Alice Hathaway Lee. Alice gave birth to their first child on Feb. 14, 1884, and died two days later. Roosevelt’s mother died the same day as his wife. With the hope that hard work would stave off depression, Roosevelt left his newborn daughter in the care of his sister and went west, where he took up cattle ranching in the badlands of the Dakota Territory. His hard work brought acceptance by area residents skeptical of the Harvard-educated Easterner. Having been born into the elite circles of New York, this experience gave him an appreciation for the lives of regular Americans. A hard winter that killed most of his cattle herd ended his ranching days and sent him back to New York.

Roosevelt assumed the presidency at age 42 upon the death of President William McKinley, making him the youngest president in the nation’s history. (John F. Kennedy was 43 when he became president, making him the youngest person to be elected as the presidential candidate on the ballot.)

WHERE BURIED: Youngs Memorial Cemetery, Oyster Bay, New York

President Theodore Roosevelt smiles

HAIL TO THE CHIEFS - FASCINATING FACTS

ANDREW JACKSON NATIONAL POLITICAL IMPACT:

STATES THAT JOINED THE UNION DURING HIS PRESIDENCY:

Jackson is considered the founder Democratic Party.

(1837) Arkansas (1836) and Michigan

SWORN INTO OFFICE: March

4, 1829

LEFT OFFICE: March 4, 1837 PARTY: Democratic VICE PRESIDENTS:

Calhoun John C. Calhoun: 1825-1832. the vice resigned Dec. 28, 1832, and until 1833. presidency remained vacant Martin Van Buren: 1833-1837

BORN: March 15, 1767, near Lancaster, South Carolina

SPOUSE: Rachel Donelson Robards

When

CHILDREN: No biological children. had

Rachel’s brother and sister-in-law one of twins, the Jacksons adopted Jackson Jr. them, naming him Andrew young Native The Jacksons also raised a on a American boy who was found died at about Creek War battlefield. He 16 years of age.

DIED: June 8, 1845 WHERE BURIED: The Hermitage (Andrew Jackson’s estate), Tennessee

Nashville,

24 • HAIL TO THE CHIEFS - FASCINATING

:

FIRST “WESTERN” PRESIDENT

“self-made” Andrew Jackson was the first the “West” man and the first person from His father died to ascend to the presidency. At age 13, he a few weeks before his birth. his two older followed in the footsteps of brothers and joined the Revolutionary killed. His were brothers both effort; War he was 14. He mother died of cholera when Carolina, eventually studied law in North practiced law, then moved to Tennessee and He also eventually settling in Nashville. general major a as 1812 of War fought in the and was considered a war hero.

POLITICAL CAREER TIED TO TENNESSEE STATEHOOD: of the

FACTS ABOUT EVERY U.S. PRESIDENT

YOUNGEST PRESIDENT IN HISTORY:

Oklahoma (1907)

With the Spanish-American War ending Spanish colonial rule in the West, the U.S. proving its power in the Pacific, and the obtaining of Guam, Puerto Rico, the Philippines and Hawaii, the U.S. achieved a new position as a world power during the McKinley administration.

THE AGE OF THE AUTOMOBILE:

HAIL TO THE CHIEFS - FASCINATING

STATE THAT JOINED THE UNION DURING HIS PRESIDENCY:

EXPANDED INTERNATIONAL INTERESTS:

Filipino nationalists revolted after the Spanish-American War, seeing the U.S. as a colonizer like Spain before it. The conflict was brutal and killed more than 4,200 U.S. service members and 20,000 Filipinos. The conflict lasted three years, ending under President Theodore Roosevelt when the resistance faded. The Philippines became autonomous in 1935 and, in 1946, the U.S. granted it independence.

THEODORE ROOSEVELT

U.S. PRESIDENT

was Jackson’s first elected position Tennessee serving as a delegate to the where he helped Constitutional Convention, constitution. draft Tennessee’s first state to the After Tennessee was admitted elected as the union in 1796, Jackson was House of state’s first member of the U.S. as a U.S. Representatives. He later served senator from Tennessee.

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in an automobile.

ABOUT EVERY U.S. PRESIDENT • 81

DEFENSE OF NEW ORLEANS:

the Tennessee Selected to be the general of great success Militia in 1802, Jackson found James Madison as a military leader. President general of the commissioned him as major 1812, and, with U.S. Volunteers in December Native hostile against battles victories in sent to Americans, Jackson was eventually an anticipated defend New Orleans from War of 1812. British invasion during the and lacking the Despite being outnumbered Jackson’s British, the battle experience of and forced army defeated their adversaries Today, Jackson the British out of Louisiana. this victory. Square in New Orleans honors

• 5

HAIL TO THE CHIEFS FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT EVERY U.S. PR ESIDENT Presented in celebration of 250 Years

of American Independence

PRESIDENTIAL POWER:

Jackson expanded During his terms in office, significantly. He the power of the presidency his predecessors vetoed 12 bills, more than all cabinet combined, and forced out disloyal secretaries members, going through four of the treasury of state and five secretaries He also during his two terms in office. people, casting worked to connect with the champion. himself as their defender and

PLANTATION OWNER:

farm, which Jackson purchased a 425-acre in 1804 in the he named The Hermitage, of making it into Nashville area with the goal Other crops a profitable cotton plantation. the time of were grown there as well. At 160 slaves were than more death, Jackson’s and care for required to run the plantation the Jackson family.

SURVIVED THE FIRST PRESIDENTIAL ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT:

Lawrence walked On Jan. 30, 1835, Richard he left the U.S. up to President Jackson as it at the Capitol, took out a pistol, pointed The gun president and pulled the trigger. shooting the misfired, and Lawrence tried pistol. It also president again with a second misfired.

HAIL TO THE CHIEFS - FASCINATING

FACTS ABOUT EVERY U.S. PRESIDENT

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FACTS ABOUT EVERY U.S. PRESIDENT

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22 | Fall 2026

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Maple Mountain renewed after difficult 2025 Head Coach: Harry Schwenke (2nd season) 2025 record: 1-9 overall, 1-6 in 5A Region 7 (7th-tie) Playoffs: Did not qualify

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Uhila Wolfgramm 6-3 235 Sr. DE, Daniel Bishop 6-0 270 Sr. OL, Nixon Kemper 6-3 225 Jr. OL, Kyren Jones 6-1 175 Sr. WR/DB, Jonah Scarborough 6-1 195 Jr. DL.

OUTLOOK

When previous head coach Kalin Hall was let go in the spring of 2025, it didn’t just have a ripple effect, it was like a tidal wave. Multiple key starters left the program and Schwenke was dealt a tough hand.The Golden Eagles suffered through a 1-9 season in 2025 and did not qualify for 5A playoffs. But going into 2026, there is renewed optimism as the program steadies itself. Schwenke was a previous head coach at Salem Hills and is definitely capable of getting the Golden Eagles to take flight again. “We feel like (the 2025) season was a one-off,” Schwenke said. “With all the things that happened leading up

to it, we didn’t really have an off-season. We were hired in late April, early May. We feel really good about this season because of the off-season. We started January 1 installing culture.” One key player that didn’t defect last season was Wolgramm, a defensive end and edge rusher. The 4-star recruit has committed to BYU but has one last prep season for Maple Mountain where Schwenke expects big things. “He’s a game changer for any program,” Schwenke said of his talent. The number of overall starters returning also should give the Maple Mountain faithful hope for a stronger season. Schwenke noted that the entire offensive line is returning plus some key skill position athletes. “We are deep in the trenches,” noted Schwenke. Bishop and Kemper should anchor the offensive line. Bishop weighed in last year at 270 pounds and Kemper was lighter at 225, his 6-foot-3 frame and long arms should keep defenders at bay. Meanwhile, Jones is an athlete that plays wide receiver and safety and might spend some time at quarter-

HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

Maple Mountain’s Kyren Jones (1) runs away from the Springville defense in a high school football game on Sept. 27, 2025.

back. Right now freshman Joey Imperio looks like the likely starter. “He’s really, really good and a bright kid. He does all the right things and makes good choices,” Schwenke said. The Golden Eagle faithful should expect a better year and a trip to the playoffs in 2026 as the coaching staff has more time to prepare along with having a good share of returning starters.

What is your favorite teambuilding activity? Schwenke noted different things, even mentioning how the 5:30 a.m. practices they have done since May have instilled discipline and team chemistry in his players. But the players have also had some fun this summer going to Splash Mountain along with doing group bonding activities and service projects.

Westlake hopes to build off last year’s breakthrough Head Coach: Arnold Ale (entering fourth season) 2025 record: 7-4, 4-2 in Region 2 (3rd place) Playoffs: Lost to Syracuse 31-28 in the first round

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Malik Sika Sr. WR, Linkin Lee Sr. DB, Sosefo Lopa Sr. LB, Slone Sua Sr. WR, Ashton Taylor Sr. RB

OUTLOOK

Winning hasn’t come easy at Westlake, although last season’s mark set is one that Westlake coach Arnold Ale

hopes to keep rolling as the team prepares for a second-straight winning season. “Last year was only the second winning season in Westlake history, so it was big for us and this program,” Ale said. “We have a lot of returners here off of last year’s team and then have a lot of good developing talent. So getting that second-straight winning season is definitely what we’re hoping for and it’s something that’s never been done before here at Westlake. Leading the charge for the Thunder will be perhaps the top receiving duo in the state with Malik Sika and

Slone Sua hoping to boost an offense that will be breaking in a new young quarterback. “Silas Taumoepeau is going to be our quarterback and he’s just a sophomore,” Ale said. “So we’re expecting some growing pains from him, but we’re also expecting him to step up because he’s really talented and he’s going to have what I believe are the best two receivers in the state to throw to.” “Overall we have a good group of returning players on defense and we’re going to keep it going and improving,” Ale concluded. “We believe we can

build one of the top programs in the state here and last year we had some good success. But we can’t rest. We have to keep it going.” What is your favorite team building activity? “We make it a point to have many team-bonded activities away from the practice field. I feel it’s very important to build unity in every team,” Ale said. “Our kids cleaned out pig pens in an animal shelter and it was good, hard labor. We also did some fun things like river rafting down the Provo River, but yeah, we try and do a lot to build the best unity we can heading into any season.”

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Fall 2026 | 23

Payson sees big challenges in Region 7 Head Coach: Mike Cole (New in 2026) 2025 record: 2-8 overall, 1-7 in 5A Region 7 (7th-tie) Playoffs: Did not qualify

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Porter Carson Sr. RB/DB, Peter Jordan Jr. DE, Cade Muir Sr. OL/DL, Cael Cottle Jr. OL/DL, Valentin Sanchez Sr. WR/DB, Justice Taylor Sr. QB

OUTLOOK

Three seasons removed from its first quarterfinal appearance in 50 years, the Lions have struggled since. The 2025 season was especially rough when the Lions were moved up to 5A and placed in Region 7 with gridiron juggernauts like Orem, Springville and Timpview. Cole takes over for Brian Wall, who was the head coach for three seasons. Before that, the Lions program had seen four different head coaches in four seasons. However, one consistency during all that head coaching turnover was that Cole was on those staffs and he actually teaches at the high school. “We’re not focusing on the wins so

much but doing things the right way and they have responded very well for us,” Cole said of his players. To reach that end of building a successful team culture, Cole has instituted the Character Academy. Cole and his other assistants sit down with the players in a classroom atmosphere and discuss principles like discipline, accountability, being a team player and conditioning, which Cole broke down into the categories of mental, physical and moral. “The kids have responded well (to the program),” said Cole. Cole is cognizant of the challenges to make the Payson program competitive. “I have a lot of parents where their concerns are safety. I also have those same concerns,” admitted Cole. “I have voiced my concerns to my higher-ups and the decision still got made to put us in 5A.” But Cole is still optimistic that his program can make the strides to be competitive. “We’ve had a big focus on the weight room once I got hired,” said Cole. “I’m seeing the transformation, it’s just not going to happen

DARNELL DICKSON, DAILY HERALD

Payson’s Valentin Sanchez (12) hold the football up after scoring a touchdown against Mountain View on Aug. 15, 2025.

overnight. We’re trying to move the needle in the weight room, we’re trying to move the needle in things outside the field that we haven’t done such a good job with to get us better here (on the field).” What is your favorite teambuilding activity? Besides the Char-

acter Academy, Cole said his players take part in other activities like service projects. And on Saturday August 8, some of the Payson players will participate in the Orchard Days Parade in Santaquin and down the road in the Onion Days Parade. These events are big in the Payson community.

Skyridge flush with returning and up-and-coming talent Head Coach: Justin Hemm (entier fifth season) 2025 record: 9-3, 3-1 in Region 3 (Tied for first place) Playoffs: Lost to Lone Peak 13-7 in the 6A state semifinals

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Andy Anderson 6-2, 230 Sr. OL, Latu Moeai 6-1, 235 Sr. OL, Omarian Sanders 6-2, 190 Sr. WR, Daynian Afalava 5-11, 250 Jr. OL, Carter Seu 6-2, 210 Sr. DE, Rex Caswell 6-1, 200 Sr. LB, Daison Merrill 5-10, 160 Sr. DB, Jaden Tahi 5-11, 170 WR/DB

OUTLOOK

Just about any program will tell you that taking a state championship is the goal, although few teams truly have a chance to do as much. For Skyridge, however, taking a coveted state championship is a very realistic proposition most years and this season should prove no different. “We have a lot of great returning talent and some young guys who have really impressed and we feel will add a lot to what we do out there,” said Skyridge coach Justin Hemm. “We’ll have to replace our quarterback, but we have some really good talent there and he’ll

have a good offensive line blocking for him and some really good playmakers around him.” For the Falcons, making their way to Rice-Eccles Stadium hasn’t been a problem, although advancing to the state championship game and then winning it is a hurdle they hope to bust through this season. And given the overall talent within the program, taking it to the next level could certainly be in the cards. “We like where we’re at both offensively and defensively,” Hemm said. “Hopefully we can come together and come out of those close games, which

is always very important, but I like how our team has worked in the offseason and we’re feeling good entering the season.” What is your favorite team building activity? “These guys do a great job hanging around together and doing things on their own to build unity, which is great,” Hemm said. “But we also do great pool parties and do talent shows as a team. We talk about it a lot and we have meetings to talk about things that we can do together constantly because building team unity is so important for any team to have success.”

24 | Fall 2026

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Fall 2026 | 25

Coaching shakeups grab headlines at Springville Head Coach: Dave Valeti (entering 5th season) 2025 record: 12-2, 6-2 in Region 7 (2nd place) Playoffs: Lost 42-7 to Orem in the 5A state championship

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Uli Folaumahina 6-2 300 Jr. OL, Treyton Harris 6-1 205 Sr. RB, Beckett Burton 6-1 170 Sr. QB, Sam Nadauld 6-1 175 Sr. WR/ DB, Lefa Toki Sr. 5-10 165 WR/DB, Damin Tupou Jr. 5-10 170 DB/RB

OUTLOOK

Change can be good, even for a program as accomplished as Springville has proved under the direction of Coach Dave Valeti. A season after coming up just one game shy of a state championship, Valeti is moving over to coordinate the offensive side of the football while leaving the defensive coordinating responsibilities

to Casey Valeti. While on that offensive side of the football, Dave Valeti hopes to field a productive offense that lost a lot of key personnel, but still holds some promising talent. “We really like our quarterback, Beckett Burton, who got some starts last year,” Dave Valeti said. “We also feel we have some guys who can make plays at both receiver and at running back. Some really talented guys who are young, but we’re very excited about most of them.” The Red Devils will rely on some of their assumed offensive standouts to do the same on the defensive end with several of the receivers and running backs being looked at to play both ways. What is your favorite team building activity? “There’s a lot of great activities we do, but I don’t feel like any of them are as impactful as our team camp,” Dave Valeti said. “I feel like we’re a to-

DARNELL DICKSON, DAILY HERALD

Springville’s Treyton Harris (28) brings down Provo’s Ronnie Wright during a high school football game on Aug. 29, 2025.

tally new team after we get back from that camp. We spend so much time together and do activities like movie night and our

seniors have really done well focusing the team and telling everyone of their goals for the coming season.

Pioneers will rely on defense to lead the way Head Coach: Andy Hadfield (2nd season) 2025 record: 5-5 overall, 2-2 Region 3 (3rd) Playoffs: Lost to American Fork 21-20 6A First Round

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Kacyn Page 6-7 330 Sr. OL, Cam Wren 6-2 195 Sr. WR/TE, Brody Downs 6-2 215 Sr. LB, Sterling Fillmore 6-3 205 Sr. DE/TE, Tautai Meredith 6-3 250 Sr. DE, Paul Unga 6-2 210 Sr. LB

OUTLOOK

“The players have been working hard this offseason and have bought into the system and the culture,” Hadfield said. “The schedule is tough. We filled it with really good teams but that’s what makes it so exciting and we wouldn’t want it any other way.” The Pioneers lost a ton of offensive production from last year. Running back

Devaughn Eka (1,239 yards from scrimmage, 14 touchdowns) and wide receiver Legend Glasker (819 yards from scrimmage, 11 touchdowns) are freshmen at BYU. In addition, quarterback Cash Hollingshead (12 passing TD’s) transferred to Salem Hills. Page is a force on the offensive line and Wren managed 22 catches for 229 yards and two scores last season. Defensively, Downs was second on the team in tackles in 2025 with 84. “We approach every season with the goal to be state champions,” Hadfield said. “Corner Canyon has to be the favorite (in 6A) until someone can knock them off. Like any other team, winning football games come down to who makes the least amount of mistakes and who can stay healthy. Our defensive front seven is really good. We have a lot of experience at linebacker and a front four that are strong and are ready to get after it.” What is your favorite team-

JARED LLOYD, DAILY HERALD

Lehi players watch film during the non-region game against Weber in Lehi on Sept. 13, 2025.

building activity? “At our leadership camp, players learn how to become better leaders on and off the football field,”

Hadfield said. “The players go through challenging group tasks that they have to figure out how to accomplish.”

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First-year coach hopes to tap Cedar Valley’s potential Head Coach: Cody Gardner (first year) 2025 record: 1-9 overall, 1-6 in Region 2 (6th place) Playoffs: Lost to Layton 41-16 in the first round

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Max Stoner Jr. RB, Cash Thacker Jr. QB, Ryder Amador Sr. WR, Cash Poulsen Jr. LB, Crew Poulsen Sr. OL/ DL, Carter Poulsen Sr. DB

OUTLOOK

The task is seemingly enormous, although first-year Cedar Valley coach Cody Gardner sees a bright light at the end of the tunnel. And Gardner is certainly someone who understands the process of building a top program with his many years spent as Corner Canyon’s top assistant coach along with other notable coaching positions. “There’s a lot of talent here and a ton of potential, which is why I took the job,” Gardner said. “We need to create moments to keep players here instead of going elsewhere. That’s the goal and what I care most about isn’t

necessarily wins and losses, but how we play and compete. If we can get our players to truly play at their best and compete, then everything else will come. We need to get to the point where kids consider it crazy to put on any uniform other than a Cedar Valley uniform, and I believe we’ll get there.” Gardner understands fully that positive results will be tough to come by initially as he fields what looks to be a relatively inexperienced and young team. But it’s all part of a process that he’s excited to undertake. “We need to get off fast and hopefully get things to come together,” Gardner said. “We have a very small roster for a 6A program, and that’s okay. We’re looking to build those numbers year by year while proving competitive. You look at last season, and even though we went 1-9, a lot of those losses were by 15 points or less. So I like what I’ve seen from our players and they’re willingness to compete and I fully believe that we can build a really great program here.” What is your favorite team building activity? “We do a lot of fundraisers and we’ve had some great

JARED LLOYD, DAILY HERALD

Cedar Valley players run onto the field before the non-region game against Westlake in Eagle Mountain on Aug. 30, 2024.

team BBQs, but the best team-building we do takes place in the weight room. But also we focus on what we eat a lot. We love feeding our kids and

making sure they’re together in that way. It’s all worked well and I can feel the team coming together, which you love to see as a coach.”

New faces but same expectations for Orem Head Coach: Andy Stokes (Entering first season) 2025 record: 12-2, 7-0 in Region 7 (1st place) Playoffs: Beat Springville 42-7 in the 4A state championship

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Taio Fano 6-4, 240 Jr. OL, Maui Tonata Jr. OL, Beckham Curtis 5-10, 190 Sr. RB, Will Rasmussen 5-10, 180 Sr. DB, Noah Seufale Jr. OL, Krew Jones Sr. 6-5, 240 DE-Ridgeline transfer, Jag Ione Sr. 6-4, 180 LB

OUTLOOK

Expectations always run high at

Orem, and fortunately for the Tiger players, their new coach is very familiar with high expectations. Former Timpview coach Andy Stokes is taking the reigns of the Orem program one season after the Tigers secured a state championship. It’s a spot he’s familiar with, having coached the T-birds to several deep postseason runs, although he recognizes the difficulty. “The most difficult year to coach is the one when the team is coming off of a state championship,” Stokes said. “The kids can be somewhat complacent because they know they did it. So getting the kids to focus on just

this year and forget about last year is always a challenge. They have to earn it this year and last year means nothing.” Stokes believes the change in the coaching staff, along with the loss of many notable senior performers from last year’s team could prove a benefit with the team’s overall focus. But of course replacing the immense amount of talent Orem had graduate after last season is a challenge. “We’re talented. The talent here is very good, but we graduated like 35 seniors after last year,” Stokes said. “But what we have back are four

starters on the offensive line, which is huge. They’re going to be the key to the whole deal. And then our defensive line looks really strong, so those are two great starting points to figure everything else out.” What is your favorite team building activity? “We do a lot of service activities,” Stokes said. “The kids go out in the community and they do it every month. We have some great parents who organize it. So it’s great to focus on something and come together when it’s not football. And it also shines a light on them and the great work they can do outside of football.”

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Fall 2026 | 27

UMA-Camp Williams leans on good skill position players Head Coach: Ephraim Schulte (2nd season) 2025 record: 5-5 overall, 4-2 1A 8-player Playoffs: Lost to Milford 58-0 1A 8-player Quarterfinals

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tyler Muse 6-0 170 Sr. DE/TE, James Sullivan 5-10 165 Jr. LB/RB, Justin Osamudiamen 5-9 165 Jr. LB/RB, Jordan Gardner 5-11 160 Jr. QB/S, Kerry Saloman 6-2 330 Sr. OL/DL

OUTLOOK

Schulte said the numbers are down in the program overall but enough talent returns for optimism in his second season at UMACW. “We graduated 11 seniors,” Schulte said. “We had a couple of kids transfer back to public school and we had an ACL injury with who would be our starting quarterback this summer. But we were 5-5 last season and kind of in the middle

of the pack, and we’re close in skill development and competitiveness right there again.” Muse and Sullivan are both three-year starters and three-year captains. Muse totaled 17 touchdowns last season and Sullivan led the team in all-purpose yards. Osamudiamen has led the team in tackles the past two seasons and Schulte said he thinks Saloman could play at the college level if he gets some expose this year. “Rich and Milford played for the championship last year in 8-man and they are the top dogs again,” Schulte said. “Monticello probably No. 3. Our schedule is tough because we play all four semifinalists. But we’re right there with Atamont, St. Joseph, UMA-Hill Field and Whitehorse. If we can go 3-1 against those teams, we’ll see where the seeding falls at state.” What is your favorite team-building activity? “One of the traditions I had as a player that I’ve chosen to continue

BRIAN E. PREECE, SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

UMA-Camp Williams head coach Ephraim Schulte instructs his team during a fourth quarter time out in a high school football game with UMA-Hill Field on Oct. 16, 2025.

are team dinners on Thursday nights,” Schulte said. “It’s an excellent opportunity for the players to get to know each other better. I’ve always thought that love

is best motivator. If you love your teammate you’re more capable of trusting each other and more willing to put your body on the line for each other.”

PG hoping to build on last season’s momentum Head Coach: Jeremy Lapan (2nd season) 2025 record: 4-7 overall, 4-3 Region 7 (4th) Playoffs: Lost to Northridge 21-7 5A First Round

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Derek Brinton 6-2 225 Sr. LB/TE, Ryder Huntsman 6-2 175 Sr. WR/DB, Tavake Wolfgramm 5-11 172 Jr. RB/DB, Carter Wilkes 6-2 180 Sr. WR/DB, Jaxon Mortensen 6-3 285 Sr. DL

OUTLOOK

Pleasant Grove finished 1-10 in 2024 and Jeremy Lapan helped the Vikings to a 4-7 mark in Year 1. PG was 4-3 in Region 7, so improvement continues to be the theme. Huntsman, who caught 50 passes for 692 yards and five touchdowns last season, and Wilkes (20-352-1) will be a threats at receiver and Wolfgramm

hopes to increase his numbers at running back (85 carries, 349 yards, three TD’s).The quarterback returning is senior Connor Ybarra (1,768 yards passing, eight TD’s last year) with senior Cannon Jacobson and junior Jett Christofferson pushing for playing time. Brinton led the Vikings in tackles last season with 90 and Mortensen will anchor the middle of the defense. Pleasant Grove’s schedule is challenging, hosting two 6A teams — American Fork and Westlake — to open the season. “We have a number of talented multisport athletes who bring competitiveness, toughness and a tremendous work ethic to our program,” Lapan told the Deseret News. “We also return a strong core of experienced players who have logged significant varsity playing time, giving us valuable leadership and continuity. In addition, we’ve added several talented young athletes who are ready to compete and contribute. Our coach-

JARED LLOYD, DAILY HERALD

Pleasant Grove junior Ryder Huntsman fights for extra yards during the Region 7 game against Maple Mountain in Pleasant Grove on Sept. 5, 2025.

ing staff’s challenge will be identifying the best roles for each player and put-

ting them in positions to maximize their strengths.”

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Condie takes over at Spanish Fork Head Coach: Brock Condie (New in 2026) 2025 Record: 4-8 overall, 2-5 in 5A Region 7 (5th-tie) Playoffs: Lost to Springville 49-14 in 5A Second Round

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Nixon Warren Sr. WR/DB, Kohen Frost Jr. WR/DB, Mason Snow Sr. WR/DB, Hawkin Rasmussen So. QB, Kyler Olsen Jr. OL/DL, Kingston Johnson So. OL/ DL, Caleb Grant DB

OUTLOOK

In 2024 Spanish Fork was literally one play away from winning the school’s first ever state title. There were some steep losses in graduation and Spanish Fork was moved up from 4A to 5A in 2025. Those combined factors led to a bit of a rough season where the Dons finished 4-8 overall and just 2-5 in the Region 7 wars. Still, the Dons were able to score a 42-7 upset of Hunter in the first round of the playoffs before being knocked out of the tournament by eventual runner-up Springville. Then longtime coach Dustin Smith resigned. Condie worked with Smith for several years though he took the 2025 season off. He was just expecting to be an assistant and he said Smith’s resignation was a bit of a surprise. “I didn’t expect it (to be the head coach),” Condie said. “I was thinking

of coming back and just helping out with the defense, what I did before. I was trying to figure out if I could make it work (with my work schedule) and coach linebackers and the next thing you know he resigned and then I just felt ‘maybe I had some ideas to help the program’ and here we are”. As head coach, Condie will call the defense while Gage Loftin will be the offensive coordinator. The 2026 Don staff does have a mixture of both coaches that have been on the staff in recent years and some new faces. The Dons do have some playmakers with four-year starter Nixon Warren who also has been a key player in the two state championship runs for the baseball program. Condie described Warren as a “Swiss Army Knife” type of player that can line up at several positions on the field both as wide receiver and as a defensive back. The skill positions will be Spanish Fork’s strength as Warren is supported by other players like Kohen Frost and Mason Snow while offensive linemen Kyler Olsen and Kingston Johnson add some muscle up front. Condie also noted that numbers in the program are up with nearly 80 players suiting up. Being in 5A Region 7 with gridiron stalwarts like Orem, Springville and Timpview is challenging and certainly the Dons will be battle tested for the playoffs.

JACOB NIELSON, DAILY HERALD

Spanish Fork players celebrate during an overtime high school football game against Salem Hills on Aug. 22, 2025.

What is your favorite team building activity? Condie changed things up versus recent years and took his team to a summer camp hosted by Hurricane High School. While there the team took part in

some service projects including one at a goodwill store that served the homeless. “It was a humbling experience but it was also really cool to see all the boys working and engaged.”

Mountain View looks for continued improvements Head Coach: Uani Unga (2nd season) 2025 record: 3-7, 1-4 in Region 8 (5th) Playoffs: Lost to Salem Hills 35-12 in the first round

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Briggy Moses, WR, Sr., Hyrum Stafford, QB, Sr., Brawley Tuitupou, WR, Sr., Carter Vance, RB, Sr., Tau

Wesley, OG, So.

OUTLOOK

Mountain View was probably better than its overall record indicated last season, and with several notable returners on both sides of the football, notable improvements could be in store. This season will also mark the

second under Bruin Head Coach Uani Unga, which could provide enhanced returns given players will now enter with an established system in place. Last season saw Mountain View lose two of its games by a single point, so if you flip those outcomes, the Bruins could be on the cusp of an elusive winning season. Working to do as much

this season will be a solid offensive system led by receivers Briggy Moses and Brawley Tuitupou with quarterback Hyrum Stafford looking to deliver the ball to them often. Should the Bruins find solid play along both their offensive and defensive front, then a winning season could be in the cards for the 2026 season.

2026 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Fall 2026 | 29

Expectations remain high for Lone Peak Head Coach: Bart Brockbank (10th season) 2025 record: 8-5, 1-3 in Region 3 (tied for 4th) Playoffs: Lost to Corner Canyon 35-20 in the 6A championship

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tyler Muse 6-0 170 Sr. DE/TE, James Sullivan 5-10 165 Jr. LB/RB, Justin Osamudiamen 5-9 165 Jr. LB/RB, Jordan Gardner 5-11 160 Jr. QB/S, Kerry Saloman 6-2 330 Sr. OL/DL

OUTLOOK

It’s Lone Peak, which means expectations are always high. But the good news is that the Knights again look poised to seriously compete for a 6A state championship, led by some promising returning skill position players on top of quarterback Cruz Christensen, who performed admirably in backup duty a season ago.

“Cruzey (Christensen) returning helps anchor our offense, and even though we lost some very good offensive linemen, we have some young and impressive guys coming up who we think can be really good,” said Lone Peak coach Bart Brockbank. “How fast that group comes together will go a long way in how good we are offensively, but I like our potential.” Lone Peak has been noted in recent years for its stingy defense and will again provide some top-flight players on that side of the ball beginning with sophomore Kingston Stroshine, safety Gabe Harmon and what Brockbank believes is a very formidable defensive line. “We’ll be bigger upfront, which should help us and we’ll rely a lot o guys like Gabe Harmon and Kingston to lead us,” Brockbank said. “Overall I really like how this team has come together in the offseason and I think we have a chance to be a good football team.”

DARNELL DICKSON, DAILY HERALD

Lone Peak’s Gabe Harmon (23) celebrates as he races down the sideline on a 75-yard interception return for a touchdown against Orem on Aug. 22, 2025.

What is your favorite team building activity?“Our players came up with what was probably our best team-building activity. They put together a talent show and it was really great. We have some very

talented players on our team, it turns out. It was a lot of fun watching them mimic us as coaches and they just had a great time with it. I feel it really helped bring the team closer, too,” Brockbank said.

Salem Hills embracing its tall expectations Head Coach: Jeff Higginson (entering 7th season) 2025 record: 7-4 overall, 3-2 in Region 8 (Third place) Playoffs: lost to Provo 45-6 in the state quarterfinals

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Peyton Higginson 6-3 185 Sr. WR, Cash Hollingshead 6-3 190 Sr. QB, Gordon Wilson 6-3 180 Sr. WR, Joe Hughes 5-8 155 Sr. WR, Maddox Haskell 6-0 195 Sr. LB, Jaxon Young 6-4 240 Sr. DL, Jagger Archuleta 6-2 230 Sr. DL/OL

OUTLOOK

Salem Hills grows them tall and athletic at receiver, and it’s been a big boon for the program throughout the years. But this year it may prove better than ever with several long receiver looking to take the lead, beginning with BYU commit Peyton Higginson.

“We really have some guys who aren’t just tall, but athletic and know how to make plays,” said Salem Hills coach Jim Higginson. “We got a great quarterback and we’re really excited about the potential we have offensively.” Of course all of it has to come together, and moving forward to this coming season, Coach Higginson feels the potential has never been higher for his team. “I really, really like the work and the attitude of this team, and I feel we can do something special this season,” he said. “I’ve never coached a team this talented and with this much potential. Of course we have to do it on the field, but I like the camaraderie that’s been developed through the offseason and I feel we’re going to have the potential to be a special team this season.” What is your favorite team-building activity? “We always have a team BBQ

JACOB NIELSON, DAILY HERALD

Jagger Archuleta of Salem Hills, right, takes down Spanish Fork’s Nixon Warren during a high school football game on Aug. 22, 2025.

where we go up and talk about our challenges we face personally and our biggest strengths,” Coach Higginson said. “We then identify what we want this

team to be known as and we share all of it in a setting that’s private. And then we do a lot of service projects and every guy shows up, which is great to see.”

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Provo eyeing fourth straight region title Head Coach: Viliami Halasima (New in 2026) 2025 record: 8-5 overall, 5-0 4A Region 8 (1st) Playoffs: Lost to No. 1 seed Ridgeline 48-22 in 4A semifinals

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Teave Brown Sr. RB/LB, Sr. Brexton Hunter Sr. WR/DB, Penieli Pan WR/ DB, McKay Marvell Sr. OL/DL, Sr. Brenyn Benson OL/DL, Tonu Lesa Jr. WR/LB, Henry Aho Jr. DL, Justice Tela Jr. DB, Julius Pan Jr. LB, Jesse Noa OL/DL

OUTLOOK

Provo will be going for its fourth straight league title in 2026 and even though Kirk Chambers retired as head coach and there were significant player losses to graduation, there is still plenty of optimism going into this upcoming season. The steady progress of the program in the last ten or so years when Tony McGeary became head coach followed by Chambers changed the entire tenor of the program. The only thing that arguably prevented Provo from making the 4A championship game was bracketing as the Bulldogs were put on the same side of the bracket as eventual state champion Ridgeline. Provo beat the other finalist, Green Canyon, earlier in the season, 27-14. “We’re definitely in a reload mode (vs a rebuild),” Halasima said. “We were super fortunate that on the defensive side of the ball that seven sophomores started (last year). The goal is to take that experience and get over the hump to that state championship game.” The defense will be led by returning all-state players like Brown, who Halisima calls the “Alpha” of the team. Brown has committed to Oregon State and will get support from Hunter, a ball-hawking cornerback. Other key defensive contributors include Lesa, Penieli and Julius Pan, Tela, Noa and Orem transfer Henry Aho.

HAROLD MITCHELL, SPECIAL TO THE HERALD

Provo’s Teave Brown runs with the ball against Ridgeline in a 4A football state semifinal at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City on Nov. 13, 2025.

The biggest hurdle to reach that kind of success is some uncertainty on the offensive side of the ball. There were big losses on that unit with 3-year starting quarterback Gehrig Orchard graduating along with the likes of running back Malik Filimoe’atu, wide receiver Ronnie Wright and two-way players Crew and Griffin DeMartini. The quarterback battle is between two sophomores in Freddie Beesley and Tama King, who transferred

from Orem. But while they settle in, there is some good protection up front with the likes of McKay Marvell and Brenyn Benson, two 3-year starters. Halasima will expect Brown and Hunter to also contribute on the offensive side of the ball at running back and wide receiver respectively. There will also be some significant coaching changes. Halasima will give up defensive coordinator duties to Tyler Fackrell while Dawson Arvi will coordinate the offense.

“I’m going to have my hands on both sides of it and give my input on both sides of the ball,” said Halasima. What is your favorite teambuilding activity ? “I come from the Louis Wong tree (Wong was the longtime coach at Timpview) and he was big on team bonding whether it was through service, going to the park and cooking a meal, or going swimming. That’s some of the things we have embraced this year and some of the things Coach Chambers did as well.”

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