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SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS August 2026

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Cooper Criss CEDAR VALE-DEXTER

Ken Huff KAPAUN MOUNT CARMEL

Arieus Finley DERBY

Nolan Hadley MAIZE

IT’S GO TIME! 2026 SOUTH CENTRAL KANSAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Brody Winter ANDALE

Carter Green DOUGLASS

Tyson Ross ANDOVER

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PRESEASON RANKINGS LEAGUE RANKINGS

WICHITA LARGE SCHOOL PRESEASON POWER 10 1. Kapaun Mount Carmel

6. Buhler

2. Maize

7. Wichita Southeast

3. Derby

8. Goddard

4. Wichita Northwest

9. Maize South

5. Bishop Carroll

10. Mulvane

WICHITA SMALL SCHOOL PRESEASON POWER 10 1. Andale

6. Wichita Trinity

2. Garden Plain

7. Conway Springs

3. Hesston

8. Hutchinson Central Christian

4. Haven

9. Argonia-Attica

5. Cheney

10. Wichita Collegiate

SALINA AREA PRESEASON POWER 10 1. Sterling

6. Sylvan-Lucas

2. Salina Central

7. Salina South

3. Hanover

8. McPherson

4. SE-Saline

9. Hillsboro

5. Lincoln

10. Inman 4

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League Predictions AVCTL DIVISION I 1. Maize 2. Derby 3. Salina South 4. Maize South 5. Valley Center 6. Hutchinson 7. Campus

CENTRAL PLAINS (VYPE AREA TEAMS ONLY)

AVCTL DIVISION II 1. Goddard 2. Salina Central 3. Andover Central 4. Andover 5. Eisenhower 6. Ark City 7. Newton

1. Garden Plain 2. Cheney 3. Wichita Trinity 4. Conway Springs 5. Douglass 6. Kingman 7. Chaparral 8. Belle Plaine

GREATER WICHITA ATHLETIC

AVCTL DIVISION III 1. Buhler 2. McPherson 3. Mulvane 4. Augusta 5. Winfield 6. Circle

1. Kapaun Mount Carmel 2. Wichita Northwest 3. Bishop Carroll 4. Wichita Southeast 5. Wichita East 6. Wichita Heights 7. Wichita West 8. Wichita South 9. Wichita North

HEART OF AMERICA (11-MAN)

NORTH CENTRAL ACTIVITIES ASSOCIATION

(VYPE AREA TEAMS ONLY)

1. SE-Saline 2. Beloit 3. Salina Sacred Heart 4. Republic County 5. Ellsworth 6. Minneapolis 7. Lyons

NORTH CENTRAL KANSAS

(VYPE AREA TEAMS ONLY)

1. Abilene 2. Clay Center 3. Concordia 4. Chapman

NORTHERN PLAINS

(VYPE AREA TEAMS ONLY)

1. Lincoln 2. Sylvan-Lucas 3. Beloit-St. John’s 4. Rock Hills 5. Pike Valley 6. Linn 7. Lakeside

1. Sterling 2. Inman 3. Moundridge 4. Marion 5. Hutchinson Trinity 6. Remington 7. Sedgwick

SOUTH CENTRAL BORDER

CENTRAL KANSAS

HEART OF PLAINS

WHEAT STATE

(VYPE AREA TEAMS ONLY)

1. Hesston 2. Haven 3. Hillsboro 4. Nickerson 5. Halstead 6. Smoky Valley

1. Hutchinson Central Christian 2. Argonia-Attica 3. Cunningham 4. Pretty Prairie 5. Norwich 6. Fairfield

1. Little River 2. Canton-Galva 3. Rural Vista 4. Solomon 5. Goessel 6. Centre 7. Herington 8. Wakefield

AVCTL DIVISION IV 1. Andale 2. Wellington 3. Wichita Collegiate 4. Rose Hill 5. Clearwater 6. El Dorado

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(VYPE AREA TEAMS ONLY)

1. Cedar Vale-Dexter 2. Flinthills 3. South Sumner 4. Oxford 5. Udall 6. Central Burden

(VYPE AREA TEAMS ONLY)

Wichita Area Preseason All-VYPE Wichita Large (6A-4A)

Wichita Small (3A-6-Man)

OFFENSE

QB - Cole Rapp, Kapaun Mount Carmel

QB - Jerrick Humphreys, Hesston

RB - Arieus Finley, Derby

RB - Afton Allaire, Andale

RB - Ken Huff, Kapaun Mount Carmel

RB - Beau Hall, Flinthills

WR - Spencer Crumrine, Valley Center

WR - Bryton Baty, Wichita Trinity

WR - Pearce George, Maize

WR - Mattix Bruner, Belle Plaine

UTL - Kedrick Harrison, Wichita Southeast

UTL - Cooper Criss, Cedar Vale-Dexter

OL - Nolan Hadley, Maize

OL - Gunner Goalden, Hesston

OL - Brock Martin, Wichita Northwest

OL - Cody Holzrichter, Haven

OL - Maddox McGinnis, Wichita Northwest

OL - Ayden Koehn, Cheney

OL - Taylor Rieman, Hutchinson

OL - Brennan Van Wyhe, Kingman

OL - Tyson Ross, Andover

OL - Brody Winter, Andale

DEFENSE

DL - Mitchell Frank, Bishop Carroll

DL - Carter Baker, Garden Plain

DL - Dallas Gray, Wichita Northwest

DL - Dalton Kelly, South Sumner

DL - Josiah Cole, Maize

DL - Caleb Newell, Conway Springs

DL - Corbin Sullivan, Goddard

DL - Gavin Schmitter, Wichita Collegiate

LB - Drake Blasi, Maize

LB - Jrayton Dansel, Andale

LB - Brenton Findley, Andover Central

LB - Josh Duerksen, Hesston

LB - Mason Moaliitele, Derby

LB - Carter Green, Douglass

DB - Hays Ensley, Mulvane

DB - Mak Blosser, South Sumner

DB - Landon Martinez, Buhler

DB - Braylen Dold, Garden Plain

DB - Cooper Mason, Andover Central

DB - Luke Eigsti, Hutchinson Central Christian

DB - Oaken Williams, Hutchinson

DB - Gus Morehead, Cheney

K - Nathan Wells, Buhler

K - Nate Toon, Wichita Collegiate

P- Dawson McFadden, Goddard

P - Tim Rhodes, Hesston

Ret - Davon Morrison, Derby

Ret - Brogan Wray, Haven

KSVYPE.COM | VYPE KANSAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2026

Composite Schedule Week 1

Independence at Augusta

Pretty Prairie at Pratt Skyline

Andover at Hutchinson

Kapaun at Wichita Northwest

Remington at Sedgwick

Andover Central at Maize

Liberal at Wichita Heights

Salina Central at Ark City

Ark City at Winfield

Maize at Salina South

Salina South at Hutchinson

Augusta at McPherson

Maize South at Valley Center

South Sumner at Erie

Belle Plaine at Hutchinson Trinity

Medicine Lodge at Douglass

SE Cherokee at Oxford

Buhler at Maize South

Mulvane at Buhler

Topeka at Wichita Southeast

Campus at Goddard

Newton at Ark City

Udall at Stafford

Cedar Vale-Dexter at West Elk

Nickerson at Halstead

Valley Center at Andover

Central Burden at South Sumner

Northern Heights at South Sumner

Wichita Collegiate at Rose Hill

Chanute at Mulvane

Onaga at Remington

Wichita East at Kapaun

Chaparral at Medicine Lodge

Oxford at Flinthills

Circle at Pratt

Pratt at Haven

Wichita Heights vs. Wichita West (at Carpenter)

Derby at Eisenhower

Pretty Prairie at Argonia-Attica

Douglass at Conway Springs

Salina Central at Goddard

Emporia vs. Wichita North (at Northwest)

Sedan at Cedar Vale-Dexter

Garden City at Wichita Heights

Sedgwick at Moundridge

Garden Plain at Cheney

Sterling at Hutchinson Trinity

Haven at Nickerson

Udall at West Elk

Hesston at Halstead

Uniontown at Bluestem

Humboldt at Bluestem

Wellington at Wichita Collegiate

Inman at Sedgwick

Wichita North vs. Wichita East (at Carpenter)

Kingman at Wichita Trinity

Wichita South at Garden City

Life Prep at Hutchinson Central Christian

Wichita Trinity at Chaparral

Macksville at Pretty Prairie

Wichita West at Emporia

Oxford at Chase County

Winfield at Circle

Pratt Skyline at Norwich Rose Hill at Andale

Andale at Wellington

South Sumner at Argonia-Attica

Bishop Carroll at Washburn Rural

Spearville at Cunningham

Bluestem at Cherryvale

Stafford at Fairfield

Buhler at McPherson

Udall at Flinthills

Campus at Derby

Valley Center at Newton

Chaparral at Conway Springs

Washburn Rural at Kapaun

Cheney at Hoisington

Wellington at Clearwater

Circle at Augusta

Wichita Collegiate at El Dorado

Clearwater at El Dorado

Wichita East at Wichita South

Cunningham at Hutchinson Central Christian

Wichita Northwest at Bishop Carroll

Douglass at Belle Plaine

Wichita Southeast at Liberal

Garden Plain at Wichita Trinity

Wichita West at Dodge City

Goddard at Eisenhower Fairfield at Argonia-Attica

Week 2

Flinthills at Central Burden

Andover at Andover Central

Halstead at Larned

Belle Plaine at Kingman

Hesston at Pratt

Bishop Carroll at Wichita Southeast

Hillsboro at Haven

Clearwater at Rose Hill

Hutchinson Trinity at Marion

Conway Springs at Cheney

Junction City at Wichita Northwest

Eisenhower at Campus

Lyndon at Cedar Vale-Dexter

El Dorado at Andale

Maize South at Maize

Fairfield at Hutchinson Central Christian

Medicine Lodge at Chaparral

Hoisington at Hesston

Newton at Andover Central

Holcomb at Garden Plain

Nickerson at Smoky Valley

Hutchinson at Derby

Winfield at Mulvane

Week 4 Andover Central at Maize South Ark City at Andover Augusta at Winfield Bishop Carroll at Wichita South Bluestem at Eureka Cedar Vale-Dexter at Central Burden Cheney at Clearwater Circle at McPherson Cunningham at Argonia-Attica Derby at Maize

Week 3

Remington at Marion

Wichita South vs. Wichita North (at Heights)

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Douglass at Haven El Dorado at Wellington Erie at Udall Fairfield at Pretty Prairie Flinthills at Sedan Goddard at Newton Great Bend at Buhler Halstead at Garden Plain Hesston at Concordia Hutchinson at Campus Hutchinson Central Christian at Sunrise Inman at Hutchinson Trinity Kapaun at Wichita Heights Kingman at Southwestern Heights Marion at Chaparral Medicine Lodge at Belle Plaine Moundridge at Conway Springs Mulvane at Wamego Norwich at St. John’s Remington at Hillsboro Rose Hill at Chanute Salina Central at Eisenhower South Sumner at Oxford Sterling at Sedgwick Valley Center at Salina South Wichita Collegiate at Andale Wichita North at Manhattan 7

Composite Schedule Wichita Northwest vs. Wichita East (at Southeast)

Douglass at Halstead

Pratt at Cheney

Wichita Southeast vs. Wichita West (at Northwest)

Flinthills at St. Paul

Pretty Prairie at Norwich

Goddard at Andover

Lakin at Douglass

Hartford at Pretty Prairie

Maize at Valley Center

Haven at Larned

Remington at Moundridge

Hesston at Clay Center

Salina Central at Andover Central

Hutchinson Central Christian at Solomon

Salina South at Campus

Hutchinson Trinity at Marion

Wamego at Hesston

Inman at Remington

Wellington at Fort Scott

Kapaun at Bishop Carroll

West Elk at South Sumner

Lakin at Kingman

Wichita Collegiate at Wichita Trinity

Lincoln at Oxford

Wichita Heights at Wichita Southeast

Maize South at Salina South

Wichita South vs. Wichita West (at Northwest)

Marion at Garden Plain

Winfield at Buhler

Wichita Trinity at Syracuse

Week 5 Andale at Cheney Andover at Eisenhower Andover Central at Goddard Argonia-Attica at Sunrise Buhler at Circle Campus at Valley Center Cimarron at Chaparral Clearwater at Wichita Trinity

McPherson at Mulvane

Coffeyville at Winfield

Week 8

Newton at Eisenhower

Conway Springs at Medicine Lodge Derby at Maize South Fairfield at Cedar Vale-Dexter Garden Plain at Douglass Haven at Marion Hutchinson Central Christian at Norwich Hutchinson Trinity at Moundridge Hutchinson Home School at Belle Plaine Kingman at Ellinwood Maize at Hutchinson McPherson at El Dorado Moran-Marmaton at Flinthills Newton at Salina Central Oxford at Udall Pretty Prairie at Cunningham

Norwich at Argonia-Attica

Argonia-Attica at Wichita County

Osage City at Clearwater

Bluestem at Conway Springs

Salina Central at Hutchinson

Buhler at Augusta

Sedgwick at Bluestem

Chaparral at Lakin

Southwestern Heights at Chaparral

Chapman at Hesston

South Sumner at Cedar Vale-Dexter

Cimarron at Kingman

Udall at Central Burden

Clearwater at Wichita Collegiate

Valley Center at Derby

Derby at Salina South

Wichita East at Wichita Heights

Dodge City at Wichita South

Wichita North vs. Wichita West (at Northwest)

El Dorado at Independence

Wichita Northwest at Garden City

Eisenhower at Andover Central

Wichita Southeast at Wichita South

Garden City vs. Wichita East (at Heights)

Wichita Trinity at Andale

Goddard at Ark City

Winfield at Rose Hill

Haven at Halstead

Remington at Mission Valley

Week 7

Rose Hill at Augusta Salina South at Ark City SE-Saline at Wichita Collegiate Sedgwick at Nickerson Smoky Valley at Hesston Sterling at Halstead Syracuse at Bluestem Wellington at Mulvane Wichita East at Hays Wichita Heights at Wichita Northwest Wichita North at Wichita Southeast Wichita South at Kapaun Wichita West at Bishop Carroll

Week 6 Andover Central at Ark City Augusta at Abilene Belle Plaine at Conway Springs Buhler at Wellington Campus at Maize Cheney at Wichita Collegiate Circle at El Dorado Cunningham at Fairfield 8

Hoisington at Garden Plain Hutchinson at Valley Center

Abilene at Circle

Hutchinson Central Christian at Pretty Prairie

Andale at Clearwater

Hutchinson Trinity at Remington

Andover at Newton

Oxford at Cedar Vale-Dexter

Argonia-Attica at Hutchinson Central Christian

Madison at Flinthills

Bishop Carroll at Wichita East

Maize at Newton

Bluestem at Belle Plaine

Maize South at Campus

Cedar Vale-Dexter at Udall

Marion at Douglass

Central Burden at Oxford

McPherson at Winfield

Conway Springs at Sedgwick

Mulvane at Circle

Cunningham at Goessel

Norwich at Fairfield

Eisenhower at Ark City

Pittsburg at Bishop Carroll

El Dorado at Rose Hill

Reno County Home School at Andale

Fairfield at Northern Heights

Rose Hill at Wellington

Flinthills at Colony-Crest

Salina Central at Andover

Garden Plain at Haven

Sedgwick at Belle Plaine

Goddard at Derby

South Central at Oxford

Halstead at Marion

Sunrise at Cunningham

Hillsboro at Hutchinson Trinity

Udall at South Sumner

Hutchinson at Maize South

Wichita North at Wichita Heights

Kapaun at Liberal

Wichita Southeast at Wichita Northwest

Kingman at Chaparral

Wichita Trinity at Cheney

Mulvane at Augusta

Wichita West at Kapaun

KSVYPE.COM | VYPE KANSAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2026

CLASS 6A TEAMS TO WATCH

6A GA MES T O WAT CH Week 1 Wichita Northwest at Bishop Carroll

Week 2 Bishop Carroll at Wichita Southeast Kapaun Mount Carmel at Wichita Northwest Maize at Salina South Week 3 Junction City at Wichita Northwest Maize South at Maize Wichita East at Kapaun Mount Carmel

Week 4 Derby at Maize Wichita Northwest vs. Wichita East Week 5 Derby at Maize South

Week 7 Bishop Carroll at Wichita East Goddard at Derby

Week 8 Derby at Salina South Wichita Southeast at Wichita Northwest

6A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH Drake Blasi, LB, Maize

Nolan Hadley, OL, Maize

Arieus Finley, RB, Derby

Brock Martin, OL, Wichita Northwest

Chaylen Bodney, WR, Wichita Heights Pearce George, WR, Maize

Dallas Gray, DL, Wichita Northwest

CAMPUS COLTS

Last Season: 3-6

Campus comes off a 3-6 season and returns a modest amount of experience on both sides of the ball. The Colts’ questionnaire notes they bring back four offensive

starters and five defensive starters, so a good senior class will have to carry a lot of the weight.

Quarterback Kaeden Lamp, running back Keton Tarango, receiver Jadyn Ditch and tight end Julian Cruz headline the offense, giving Campus returning

Kedrick Harrison, RB, Wichita Southeast Maddox McGinnis, OL, Wichita Northwest Mason Moaliitele, LB, Derby

production at every skill spot. Up front, Austin Harmon, Ben Dalton, Jonah Amos and Josh Long are listed in the offensive starting mix as the Colts try to stabilize the line. Defensively, returning starters include Dalton, Amos, Cruz, Harmon and

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defensive back Jacob Pennington. Campus describes its offense as spread and its defense as a 3-4, so how quickly those returning pieces mesh with new starters will determine whether the Colts can move closer to .500 or better.

GOOD LUCK CAMPUS 9

2026 6A TEAMS TO WATCH DERBY PANTHERS Last Season: 8-4

Derby heads into 2026 looking like a typical Panthers contender again after an 8-4 season that ended in the 6A state semifinals under longtime head coach Brandon Clark. Over Clark’s 20 years as a head coach, Derby has reached the state semifinals 15 times, played in nine title games and won six state championships, so expectations remain high.

Talon Cunningham, giving Clark a deep, veteran skill group. Defensively, the Panthers return key linebackers Brody Hopper and Taylen Washington, safety Braylon Reed, leading tackler Mason Moalitele and kicker/ punter Trip Holsinger, who has started since his freshman year.

Clark said the keys to 2026 are playing assignment-sound football in all three phases and delivering consistent performances week to week. With a brandnew defensive line but experienced linebackers and secondary pieces, Derby’s ability to reload up front will likely decide how far this roster can go.

City League.

Offensively, East’s questionnaire lists two returning linemen as anchors up front and notes that the team will operate from a spread attack designed to get athletes in space. On defense, six starters are back in a 3-4 structure that emphasizes speed and physicality at the point of attack.

much more competitive. Heights lost nine offensive starters, yet it returns all-league and all-state brothers Chris and Chaylen Bodney, who led the team in major offensive categories last year.

The Falcons’ biggest offensive question is quarterback, with Armonie Lopez, Yohan Thang and DJ Hicks all taking first-team snaps during the summer. Chaylen Bodney is a proven big-play threat after posting 492 receiving yards, 267 rushing yards, 12 total touchdowns and 274 kickoff return yards, while Chris Bodney added 31 catches for 351 yards.

The Panthers return seven offensive starters and three defensive starters, with most of their skill talent back. Senior quarterback Blade Clark is an all-state, allleague honorable mention returner, and he’ll again work with first-team 6A running back Arieus Finley, all-state offensive lineman Weston Jackson and experienced lineman Kaelin Scarth. Derby also brings back all-state receivers Davon Morrison and Michael Castillo plus rising junior tight end Chyler Walker and returning starter

WICHITA EAST BLUE ACES Last Season: 6-4

Wichita East is coming off a 6-4 season and returns solid experience, particularly along the offensive front. The Aces bring back four offensive starters and six defensive starters, so they should have enough veterans to stay competitive in the

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The document does not give full individual stat lines, but it makes clear that East expects its returning core to provide leadership and stability. Given last year’s winning record and the balance of returning starters, the Aces look like a team capable of pushing back toward the upper half of the league again.

WICHITA HEIGHTS FALCONS Last Season: 1-8

Wichita Heights is trying to bounce back from consecutive losing seasons, but Dominick Dingle’s 2026 outlook suggests the Falcons have enough defensive experience to become

Defensively, Heights looks stronger, led by Jadian Smith and Zayden Allen after both topped 100 tackles in 2025, plus Tyson Phillips, who already holds several Division I offers. With a 4-2-5 base, experienced secondary help and a brutal schedule, staying healthy may be the biggest factor in whether the Falcons can turn those close losses into wins.

GOOD LUCK EAST AND HEIGHTS

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2026 6A TEAMS TO WATCH WICHITA NORTH REDHAWKS Last Season: 0-9

Wichita North enters 2026 under first-year head coach Lee Weber with a full rebuild mindset after an 0-9 season in which the RedHawks were outscored 546-20. Weber said the immediate goal is not just to win eventually, but first to close the gap competitively by winning plays, drives, quarters and halves.

WICHITA NORTHWEST GRIZZLIES Last Season: 9-2

The overall preview makes clear that Northwest again expects to be competitive because of its line play and top-end young talent.

2026 believing its defense can set the tone after returning eight starters from last year’s 3-6 team. Russ Wells said the Titans graduated several experienced offensive seniors, so the defense is expected to lead while the offense searches for a new identity.

and looks dangerous again because Corby Milleson says the defense remains the program’s identity while six starters return on both sides of the ball. The Golden Buffalo also add Derby transfers Mikail Phillips and Ja’Maree Jones, which should help cover some personnel losses.

North returns six offensive starters and nine defensive starters, so there is at least a base of experience to work with. Valentin Prado, Ricky Alvarado, Xavier Bennett, Mauricio Mauro, Jhett Haberly, Keylin Williams, Julian Vizcarra and twins Brendon and Brandon Welch are identified as the main returning impact players. The RedHawks will run a spread offense and a 3-4 defense, with Weber emphasizing effort, discipline, tackling and ball security as the core of the rebuild. North may still be a year away from real traction, but the tone of the preview makes it clear the program expects to be tougher and more competitive right away.

Steve Martin’s Grizzlies return five offensive starters and six defensive starters, with the offensive and defensive lines described as the anchors of the team. Brock Martin, Maddox McGinnis and Justin Roberts lead the offensive front, while Aiden Edwards and Caius Garolla give the defensive line a strong base. The biggest storyline is replacing three-year starting quarterback Jaylen Mason, but Northwest has a major weapon in sophomore running back Zy’Air Burton, who already holds early offers from Penn State, Kansas, Kansas State and Arkansas State. Jaeynn Ligon is the main returning receiver, while Dallas Gray and Kyhron Taylor headline a defense that Martin believes can support the team while younger pieces develop.

WICHITA SOUTH TITANS Last Season: 3-6

Wichita South enters

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South runs a shotgun spread on offense and a 3-4 on defense. The Titans return five offensive starters, with Jaden Logue, Ja’Marion Peters, De’Moni Harris, Ayden Rojas, Angel Rueda, Demareo Baldwin and Larry Sandifer among the key names expected to take on bigger roles. Defensively, Harris already gives South proven production after recording 78 tackles, eight tackles for loss and three sacks, while Ronnie Davis returns after leading the team with two interceptions. Wells’ outlook suggests South trusts its athletic skill players, but the biggest question is whether the offense can replace the graduated production of R. Johnson and J. Rosko quickly enough.

WICHITA SOUTHEAST BUFFALOES

Last Season: 7-3

Wichita Southeast is coming off a 7-3 season

Offensively, Southeast will stay in its flexbone system and build around senior quarterback Mack Obar and standout running back Kedrick Harrison, who rushed for 1,523 yards at 6.6 yards per carry with nine touchdowns in 2025. Obar, David Cooks, Tyzhiere Williams, Will Obar and Brandon Dixon give the offense an experienced skill group, but Milleson said replacing the entire offensive line is the biggest concern. Defensively, Southeast plans to stay highly aggressive, even noting that it wants to blitz on every snap and send four-, five-, six- and seven-man pressures. Kenny Jackson, Kearion Harrison, Will Obar, Evan Brashear, Keon Moses, Keandre Phillips and transfer Mikail Phillips give the Buffaloes a strong core on that side, so if the young line matures fast enough, this still looks like a highupside team.

GOOD LUCK NORTH

GOOD LUCK NORTHWEST

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TEAM OF THE MONTH Maize Eagles Football After posting a 10-1 record and capturing the Ark Valley Chisholm Trail Division I championship with a perfect 6-0 league mark in 2025, Maize enters the 2026 season with another experienced group determined to make a deeper postseason run.

The Eagles return 23 letter winners, including 11 starters, and head coach Gary Guzman believes an experienced senior class gives his team a strong foundation. Guzman begins his 16th season at Maize and his 43rd year coaching overall, bringing a career head coaching record of 207-140 into the season. Leading the offense is a talented group of seniors that includes running back Demarye Smith, wide receivers Pearce George, Malachi Leichner and Ryder Zimmerman, and offensive lineman Nolan Hadley. The experienced skill players give Maize plenty of proven production as the Eagles continue to operate out of their spread offense.

Defensively, the Eagles return linebacker Drake Blasi, linebacker Connor Goerzen, defensive linemen Josiah Cole and Isaac Lerma, along with defensive backs Vincent Rosas and Beckett Schuette. That veteran group will anchor a defense built around a 4-2 scheme. Guzman said the Eagles’ biggest

advantage is their experience.

“Our strength is our strong senior class,” Guzman said. While experience is plentiful, Maize will need younger players to develop throughout the season.

“Our weakness is the lack of depth on both sides of the ball,” Guzman said.

After reaching the second round of the playoffs last season, the Eagles have their sights set on another championship push. Guzman said the team’s success will depend on establishing momentum early and maintaining consistency throughout the fall. “We need to experience some early

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success and build on it every week,” Guzman said. “We also have to execute, play fast, play smart, and be aggressive in all phases of the game.”

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PREP PERFORMANCE OF THE MONTH Nolan Hadley / Maize Maize High School offensive lineman Nolan Hadley views the upcoming season in a different weight: it is the final chapter of a journey built alongside teammates who have grown up together. “What I am most excited about for this upcoming season is being able to have one last season with my team and my class,” Hadley said. “We grew up together and we have a special team this year and I’m excited for one last ride.” Hadley, who anchors the offensive front for Maize High School, has spent the offseason sharpening his game and preparing for a senior campaign he hopes will end with a championship run. The team has been in the weight room and on the field multiple times per week, while Hadley has also taken extra steps to refine his skills. “In the off-season, we have summer workouts four times a week,” Hadley said. “I’m also working with Rashad Daniels three times a week working on my speed, agility and conditioning. Also doing position work outside of practices with my team.” One of his main focuses this year is consistency — delivering the same level of performance on every snap. “One area that I’m wanting to improve on this year is my consistency play to play,” Hadley said. “Making sure I’m using the right technique and going all out. Some ways I’m working on that are pushing myself during the off-season and doing extra position work.” That attention to detail shows in his track record. Last season, Hadley did not allow a sack while recording 85 knockdowns and pancakes, helping lead Maize to a 10-1 record. His efforts earned him first-team all 6A State honors and a spot on the AVCTL Division 1 first-team offensive line. For Hadley, individual success matters — but leadership and team goals remain the priority. “Some goals that I have individually are being a leader for this team and also having my best season yet,” he said. “As a team, we focus one week at a time, but of course the end goal is to come home with the state championship.” After high school, Hadley has already made his decision to continue his football career at the next level. “My future plans consist of I am committed to play at the University of South Dakota for football,” he said. “My plan is to major in graphic design.”

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NXT LEVEL, FUELED BY FARRELL, AND PI ATHLETES’ ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Northwest’s Maddox McGinnis Senior offensive lineman Maddox McGinnis of Wichita Northwest High School is heading into his final prep football season with a clear focus on leadership, physical development and helping a young roster compete at a high level in Kansas Class 6A.

After a year in which Wichita Northwest graduated a significant portion of its production, McGinnis said the opportunity to help guide the next wave of players has become one of his biggest motivations. “I’m most excited about competing with this group of guys and seeing what we’re capable of as a team,” McGinnis said. “We graduated a lot of talented players last year, so we’re a young team, but we’ve put in a ton of work this offseason. I believe in this group, and I truly think we can compete with anybody.” Now entering his senior season, McGinnis said his mindset has shifted toward being a stabilizing presence for younger teammates while also elevating his own game along the offensive line.

“Personally, I’m excited to be the senior that younger players can look up to and rely on — I learned how to be a leader from some of the best and now it’s my turn,” he said. “I’m also looking forward to showcasing how much I’ve grown as an offensive lineman and helping set the tone up front. I want to be someone my teammates can count on every snap, play a physical brand of football, and do everything I can to help lead our team on a deep playoff run.” The offseason, McGinnis said, was centered on a complete physical transformation aimed at improving explosiveness, speed and overall athleticism while maintaining strength in the trenches.

“This offseason has been all about transforming my body and elevating my game,” he said. “My focus was lowering my body fat, building lean muscle, becoming more explosive, and improving my speed without losing strength. I spent countless hours in the weight room, cleaned up my nutrition, and stayed consistent with conditioning and speed training.” He also emphasized technical refinement as a key part of his preparation, particularly in his footwork and ability to finish blocks through the whistle. “I’ve also continued improving my footwork, technique,

and mobility while competing against top talent at camps,” McGinnis said. “I feel like I’ve made the biggest physical transformation of my career, and I’m excited to show how much faster, leaner, and more athletic I’ve become.” One of his primary goals entering the season is consistency, especially late in games when physical and mental fatigue can take over along the offensive line.

“One area I’ve really focused on is becoming more consistent with my footwork and finishing every block,” he said. “My goal is to dominate from the first whistle to the last. During the offseason, I worked on agility drills, hand placement, leverage, and conditioning so I can play fast and physical on every snap, especially late in the game.”

McGinnis enters his senior season with a strong list of accolades from last year, including Greater Wichita Athletic League First Team Offensive Line honors and Kansas 6A AllState honorable mention recognition from multiple outlets. He also earned All-Metro Second Team Offensive Line honors and was named to several additional all-state honorable mention lists. In the offseason, he was named Under Armour Next Camp MVP and received Academic All-American honors. Individually, McGinnis said he is aiming for even more recognition in his final season.

“Individually, my goal is to be one of the top offensive linemen in Kansas and earn First Team All-State honors,” he said. “I also want to take on a bigger leadership role, both on and off the field, and help my teammates succeed.”

A very special thanks to these outstanding individuals whose guidance, encouragement, and commitment helped shape Maddox’s journey. 16

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Wichita South’s De’Moni Harris

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De’Moni Harris knows his final season of high school football is about more than statistics. For the Wichita South senior, it’s an opportunity to show the results of months of hard work while sharing one last season with the teammates he considers family.

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“I am the most excited about showing how much work I’ve put in and how much I’ve improved this offseason,” Harris said. “I am also excited to play one last year with my teammates. They are family to me.”

Harris enters his senior campaign coming off a productive junior season in which he recorded 81 tackles, 2.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and two pass breakups. While those numbers provide a solid foundation, he believes there’s another level he can reach.

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The offseason has been centered on making sure he’s ready to take that next step. Harris has spent countless hours in the weight room, attended team conditioning sessions and continued working on his own by running position drills in his backyard. “I’ve been going to the gym to work out, going to conditioning with my team and doing drills in my backyard,” Harris said.

The physical preparation has been paired with a mental approach. Harris wants to become a more complete defender by refining his technique and improving the consistency of his game. “I want to have a more fluid and smooth play style,” Harris said. “I’ve worked on this by taking a lot more reps, watching film and studying the position.”

His goals reflect the confidence he’s gained through that preparation. Individually, Harris is aiming to surpass the century mark in tackles, record at least five sacks and earn first-team All-City honors. “My individual goals are to exceed 100 tackles, have five or more sacks and make first-team All-City,” Harris said.

Just as important are the goals he has for the Titans as a team. Harris hopes Wichita South can take a significant step forward by winning at least five games and making a postseason run. “My team goals are to win five or more games and make a run in the playoffs,” Harris said.

Beyond high school, Harris hopes his senior season will help open the door to the next level. He plans to continue playing football in college and expects the recruiting picture to become clearer as the season unfolds.

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WICHITA RUNNING BACK POLL WINNER

Maize’s Demarye Smith After spending years building chemistry with his teammates, Maize senior running back Demarye Smith is determined to make his final high school football season one to remember. Smith said the opportunity to compete for a championship while sharing the field with his teammates is what excites him most about the upcoming season.

“The thing I’m most excited about for this season is playing one last year of high school football with my teammates and competing for a state championship,” Smith said.

The senior enters the season coming off a productive junior campaign in which he rushed for 655 yards on 81 carries, averaging 7.2 yards per carry while scoring 10 touchdowns. Smith produced those numbers while splitting carries in the Eagles’ offense.

During the offseason, Smith has continued to develop his skills while preparing for a championship push. He has worked with trainer Rashad Daniels, attended college junior days and camps, and participated in team activities including padded camps and 7-on-7 competitions.

“My offseason has been a busy one,” Smith said. “I’ve been working out with my trainer Rashad Daniels. I’ve been going to a lot of colleges for junior days or camps. I’ve also had team camps like padded camps or 7-on-7s with my team to get our chemistry down for this season.” One of Smith’s biggest focuses heading into his senior year is improving his speed and explosiveness. He has spent time training with Daniels while also putting in additional work on his own. “An area I’m wanting to improve on is my speed and my explosiveness,” Smith said. “I’ve been working on that by working with my trainer and also just going to the field and doing drills by myself.”

Smith has set individual goals for his final season, including earning All-State recognition at running back, but he said leadership and team success remain his biggest priorities. “My goals for this season individually, I want to be an All-State running back, but most importantly be a leader to my team and everyone around me,” Smith said.

For Smith and the Eagles, the ultimate goal has been established since offseason workouts began. After months of winter, spring and summer preparation, Maize believes it has the talent necessary to make a deep postseason run.

“Team wise is a state championship,” Smith said. “That’s what we’ve been working for all offseason with winter, spring and summer weights. We’ve had one goal and that’s to play in November. Anything short of that in my opinion is a fail. We have all the talent we need; now we just need to go out and execute.”

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USD261 HAYSVILLE/CAMPUS ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Campus’ Alex West Alex West has waited months for one feeling to return.

The anticipation of stepping back into the huddle, pulling on his Campus High School jersey and hearing the whistle for the first game of the season is what has fueled the Colts offensive lineman throughout the offseason.

“I’m ready to be in that huddle and get the drive rolling,” West said. “That first game on a Thursday night. Just getting that feeling of putting on the jersey again and being on that field is just a rush of adrenaline to me. Hopefully the first play is me pulling at the right guard position and leveling a guy out.”

That physical, team-first mentality has become a trademark for West, who earned Ark Valley Chisholm Trail League Division I honorable mention honors on the offensive line last season. His versatility also proved invaluable, as he played multiple positions across the offensive front, started every game and served as a team captain during parts of the season.

West has spent the offseason preparing to build on that success. A member of Campus’ powerlifting team, he has continued to make strength training a priority while also refining the technical aspects of his game. “I’ve been in the weight room of course,” West said. “I was on the powerlifting team so lifting was an everyday thing for me. I went to an old coach of mine and he’s been teaching me some new things that will help out during the season. We also started OTAs every Saturday just to brush off the dust and get back on track with the new season coming up.” While strength is an important part of playing in the trenches, West believes the biggest improvement for the Colts has come in the relationships they’ve built away from Friday nights.

He emphasized that developing chemistry with teammates has been a

major point of emphasis, helping the team establish a “next play” mentality and better communication during games.

“I wanted to improve the chemistry off and on the field with teammates,” West said. “Whether that’s just having that ‘next play’ mentality or just talking on the sideline about what happened on that play. During the offseason, we kept up with each other during the week or the weekend during OTAs just by hanging out or playing some pickup games.”

As the season approaches, West has both individual and team goals in mind. Personally, he wants to dominate opposing defenders and rack up plenty of pancake blocks. More importantly, he wants to help lead Campus to a successful season by maintaining the right mindset through every challenge. “For myself, at least a good amount of pancakes during the year, and to win of course,” West said. “As a team, we need to focus on what’s ahead of us. Keeping our heads down and working throughout the year. Just keeping a positive mindset and pushing through adversity when it hits us the most.”

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CONRADE INSURANCE GROUP’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Northwest’s Brock Martin After helping lead Wichita Northwest to yet another successful season in 2025, Brock Martin believes the Grizzlies are being overlooked heading into the new campaign. With several key starters gone, many expect Northwest to take a step back. Martin doesn’t see it that way.

“I’m excited for this season because we are going to be the underdogs this season,” Martin said. “People think we won’t be as good as last year’s team because we lost a lot of starters, but I believe we will be the same dangerous team we was last year.” Martin enters the season with plenty of momentum after earning first-team all-league honors at center and second-team all-state recognition last fall. While those accomplishments were significant, his focus has shifted to improving both individually and as a leader for a younger team.

better leader.”

Martin said leadership has become one of his biggest priorities as Northwest prepares for the season.

“I am wanting to improve on being a better leader,” he said. “Ways I worked on being a better leader is being more vocal to my teammates and motivate them if they’re struggling.”

Martin has set lofty individual goals for his senior season. He hopes to earn first-team all-state honors, become a three-time first-team allleague center and receive an invitation to the Kansas Shrine Bowl.

“My goals for the season is to get first-team all-state, be a 3x firstteam all-league center, and to make it to the Shrine Bowl,” Martin said. While individual accolades would be meaningful, Martin said the team’s goals remain at the forefront. “For the team, our goal is to go to state and win it,” he said.

Throughout the offseason, Martin has stayed committed to his development. He has participated in team weightlifting sessions while also working with speed trainer Rashad Daniels to improve his athleticism. “I have been doing team lifts and working out with my speed trainer Rashad Daniels,” Martin said. “I have also been trying to become a

DEAN JONES’ STATE FARM ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Northwest’s JaeLynn Ligon With a talented senior class gone and expectations from the outside beginning to shift, Wichita Northwest’s JaeLynn Ligon sees opportunity instead of pressure.

After graduating a large portion of its Class of 2026, the Grizzlies enter the new football season with something to prove. Ligon believes that perception has fueled the team’s offseason.

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“I am most excited about this upcoming season because, as the Wichita Northwest Grizzlies, we have a lot of weight on our shoulders due to losing a bunch of talent from the Class of ‘26,” Ligon said. “We are now seen as the underdogs, and not only myself but the whole team is prepared to make a name for ourselves and show everyone differently this year.”

Northwest has spent the offseason building toward that goal with a demanding schedule. The team meets four mornings a week for strength training, conditioning and competitive drills designed to build chemistry and accountability.

“This offseason has been a long but fun offseason,” Ligon said. “Workouts as a team every Monday through Thursday morning include team lifts, team conditioning and even team competitions.” Ligon has also dedicated extra time to his individual development, training on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings to sharpen his skills at wide receiver and safety. While his physical preparation has been important, Ligon said his biggest focus has been developing as a leader.

“One area I want to improve this year is the leadership on the team,” he said. “I want the team to be a player-led team. I want the team to take responsibility and hold each other accountable so we can push to be the best of the best.” He believes the team’s competitive offseason workouts have helped establish that culture.

“The way we work on this is our team competitions, striving through the challenges, pushing each other to finish and never leaving a man behind,” Ligon said.

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Ligon enters the season following a productive junior campaign in which he recorded 36 receptions for 349 receiving yards, added 137 punt return yards and scored five touchdowns. He finished with 486 all-purpose yards while earning second-team All-League honors at wide receiver and honorable mention recognition as a special teams returner. He also tied the school record for most receptions in a single game with 10 catches, matching Griffen Baker. Despite those accomplishments, Ligon has set even higher expectations for himself.

“Personally, I want to make myself known for what I am capable of, to be first-team All-State at wide receiver and safety,” he said. “Another goal I have set is to break the rest of the receiving records in a single game and throughout the season.” His individual aspirations, however, take a back seat to the team’s primary objective. “As a team we have one goal and one goal only, and that’s to win state,” Ligon said.

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R AC H E L J A N E S ’ S H E LT E R AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T S

Campus’ James Williams Campus senior James Williams is driven by one thing above all else: the opportunity to compete.

“The thing I’m most excited about is the competition and the hunger to win,” Williams said. “I’m excited to have that ‘amped’ feeling before kickoff of my senior year; to have the feeling to be the best in my position but let the field and Jesus do the talking.”

Williams has spent the offseason preparing for what he hopes will be his best year yet. His daily routine begins at 5:30 a.m. with team workouts in the weight room and on the field. In addition to team training, he has worked with a personal trainer throughout the summer and attended football camps at TCU, Oklahoma State and Friends University. He also plans to attend a camp at Emporia State before the summer ends. “I’m letting God lead me on what to do and how to do it,” Williams said.

One of Williams’ biggest priorities this offseason has been improving his speed. Although he already considers speed one of his strengths, he believes there is still room to grow.

“The one thing I want to improve on is my speed,” he said. “I’m fast now but I want to be faster; I want to be my best.” To reach that goal, Williams has focused on strength training and plyometric exercises designed to improve his footwork, endurance and explosiveness.

“I strive to be prepared for the next level of football,” he said. “With God’s help, I know that’s possible.”

Williams also has set ambitious goals for his final high school season. Individually, he wants to surpass his previous production, increase his career tackle total from 96.5 to 150 and earn All-League honors.

“My individual goals are to improve from previous seasons and heavily exceed my past stats,” Williams said. “I hunger to prove myself and stand out to everyone who I play with and play against.” Team success remains equally important. Williams said he hopes to help strengthen the Colts’ chemistry while building accountability and trust throughout the season.

“I want us to hold each other accountable and fix our mistakes together and win together,” he said. “I also want us to trust one another both on and off the field, believing that we are all doing our part to make Colts football dignified.”

Despite missing more than half of last season because of an injury, Williams made a significant impact. In 4½ games, he recorded 41 total tackles, including 22 solo tackles and 19 assists, while averaging 9.1 tackles per game. He also forced one fumble and blocked one field goal

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TODD BENWAY’S STATE FARM ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Derby’s Arieus Finley After rushing for nearly 1,600 yards and earning first-team all-league and Class 6A all-state honors last fall, Derby senior running back Arieus Finley isn’t shying away from lofty expectations entering his final high school season. In fact, he’s embracing them.

Finley, who rushed for 1,590 yards and 16 touchdowns on 186 carries while averaging 144 yards per game as a junior, has his sights set on helping Derby make a deep postseason run while cementing his place among the state’s elite players.

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“I’m excited to make a state run my senior year,” Finley said. “I’m excited to show that I’m the best player in the state.”

Those ambitions have fueled a busy offseason focused on refining every aspect of his game. Finley has trained with Brian Butler while also participating in workouts alongside former Kansas State standout and current NFL running back Deuce Vaughn as well as former NFL defensive back Elbert Mack. The extra work has centered on improving the physical tools that can elevate his already impressive production. “I’ve been working on my speed, explosiveness and flexibility,” Finley said.

Those improvements could make an already dangerous running back even more difficult to contain. Finley consistently displayed his ability to create explosive plays last season, earning first-team All-League recognition and first-team Class 6A All-State honors after leading the Panthers’ ground attack. While individual accolades are part of his motivation, Finley’s biggest goals revolve around team success. He hopes to help Derby finish the season undefeated and capture a state championship, achievements that would cap his high school career in memorable fashion. On the individual side, Finley has set his sights on some of Kansas’ highest honors.

“My goals are Gatorade Player of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year, state champs and an undefeated season,” he said.

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EMPRISE BANK’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita East’s Cameron Akins As Wichita East prepares for the high school football season, defensive back Cameron Akins is eager to take the field after spending the offseason working to elevate his game.

Akins said his offseason centered on speed training and weightlifting with a trainer while also sharpening one specific part of his game.

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“The area I wanted to improve was my DB technique, and I worked on it by consistently practicing,” Akins said.

After an impressive season in which he recorded 19 passes defended, eight pass breakups, 18 tackles and did not allow a catch or touchdown in man coverage, Akins has set even higher expectations for himself this fall.

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His individual goals include recording at least six interceptions, more than 15 pass breakups and 50 tackles while not allowing a touchdown in man coverage. He also wants to avoid missed assignments and earn first-team all-conference honors.

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“My goals are 6-plus interceptions, 15-plus pass breakups, 50-plus tackles and zero touchdowns allowed in man coverage,” Akins said. “I don’t want any missed assignments. I want to be first-team all-conference and get a film good enough to send to college coaches.” Akins’ aspirations extend beyond his own statistics. He wants to help Wichita East become a disciplined team that plays with maximum effort and makes a deep postseason run.

“I want us to be the most disciplined, max-effort team, have a winning record going into the playoffs, get to at least the third round and allow fewer than 14 points as a defense,” Akins said.

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Looking beyond high school, Akins is focused on earning an opportunity to play at the next level. “My future plans are to work as hard as possible for a scholarship,” he said. “From there, it’s one step at a time.” 22

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TOMMY LEACH’S SHELTER ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

Wichita Southeast’s Kenny Jackson

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Kenny Jackson believes Wichita Southeast has something to prove heading into the 2026 football season.

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Despite finishing near the top of the Class 6A bracket a year ago, Jackson said the Golden Buffaloes are still viewed as underdogs. That perception has fueled the team’s offseason preparation.

“I’m excited to see how this team proves everyone wrong,” Jackson said. “We were at the top of the 6A bracket last season but still seen as the underdogs. I truly believe we can compete with every team we face and have a winning record.”

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Jackson has attacked the offseason with a purpose. Along with spending countless hours in the weight room, he has focused on improving his speed and flexibility while logging extra time on the practice field with teammates. He’s also gone back to the film room, studying opponents from last season in search of any advantage.

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“I’ve been restudying film over teams we played last season, working hard in the weight room, training speed and flexibility, and getting extra field time with my teammates,” Jackson said.

One area of emphasis has been improving his grip strength after battling hand issues throughout last season. “I struggled with hand issues during last season, so I’ve been doing hand and finger strengthening,” Jackson said.

Jackson is coming off a productive defensive campaign in which he recorded 65 total tackles, including 56 solo stops, 16 tackles for loss, one sack and two forced fumbles. Those numbers have only raised the standard he has set for himself. His individual goals are ambitious.

“I want to reach that 100-tackle goal and get back to six forced fumbles this season,” Jackson said. While personal milestones would be rewarding, Jackson’s biggest objective centers on the success of the Golden Buffaloes. He hopes Southeast can make a deep postseason run and add to the school’s football legacy. “As a team, I want to bring a plaque home and get in the trophy case and mark the school forever,” Jackson said.

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COMMUNITY BANK’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Campus’ Ben Peitz The upcoming football season is an opportunity for Ben Peitz of Campus to enjoy one final year with his teammates while building on the progress he has made during his high school career.

“I am most excited about hanging out with all the guys and enjoying my last season of football,” Peitz said. Peitz has spent the offseason preparing for his senior campaign through a consistent commitment to the weight room. He said he has attended before-school workouts throughout the offseason and has been present at summer weightlifting sessions every day.

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“I have been in before-school weights every day the whole season and being at summer weights every day,” he said. In addition to improving his physical strength, Peitz has focused on becoming a better leader for his team. “I am working on improving my leadership skills and working on overall lower body strength,” he said.

Peitz has set ambitious goals for his final season. Individually, he hopes to make a significant impact on defense while earning postseason recognition. “I would love to end the season with a sack a game and a few forced fumbles and a couple TFLs a game,” Peitz said. “I would also love to get first-team honors. I want to end the season with a winning record.”

Last season marked Peitz’s second year playing football and his second consecutive year as a starter. He earned honorable mention all-conference honors on the defensive line after starting every game and showcasing his versatility by playing every position along the defensive front.

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MARK MAY’S ALLSTATE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Derby’s Mason Moaliitele After putting together one of the most productive defensive seasons in Class 6A last year, Derby linebacker Mason Moaliitele is focused on helping his team reach the next level. Moaliitele recorded 108 tackles in just eight games because of an injury, averaging 13.1 tackles per game, the highest mark in Class 6A. He also added seven tackles for loss, two interceptions and one sack during the season, earning first-team non-senior all-state honors and first-team allleague recognition.

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Now, as he prepares for another season, Moaliitele’s motivation remains centered on his teammates and his love for the game.

“I’m most excited for playing with my guys and getting to play the sport I love,” Moaliitele said.

The linebacker has spent the offseason working to improve his physical abilities and prepare for a bigger role on the field. Derby has participated in multiple team camps during the summer, giving players opportunities to compete and continue developing together. “I’ve been grinding to get faster and stronger, we’ve had a lot of team camps this summer so far,” Moaliitele said. While Moaliitele has already established himself as a top defender, he is looking to add more versatility to his game this season. One area he has emphasized is improving his coverage skills and creating more opportunities to make plays in the passing game. “One thing I want to work on this year is my pass drops, I want more interceptions so I’ve been working on hip flexibility and opening up,” Moaliitele said.

With another season ahead, Moaliitele has set high expectations for himself and the Derby defense. His goals include helping the team compete for a state championship while continuing to develop as one of the state’s top defenders.

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“Some goals I have for this season is to win state as a team and win DPOY,” Moaliitele said.

THE GLASSMAN’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Derby’s Michael Castillo After a productive junior season, Derby senior Michael Castillo has spent the offseason focused on preparing for what he hopes will be a memorable final year of high school football.

Castillo said his offseason has centered on improving both physically and mentally through consistent work in the weight room and on the practice field. “I have been training in the gym, showing up for workouts and doing individual workouts,” Castillo said. “I go 110% every day at practice to make sure the team is getting better every day.” While Castillo’s physical preparation has been important, he said one of his biggest goals is improving his patience on the field.

“The area I’m wanting to improve on is my patience,” he said. “For example, when something isn’t going our way or the team’s way, I just need to relax and handle situations better.”

Castillo enters his senior season with lofty aspirations for both himself and the Panthers. Individually, he hopes to earn Gatorade Player of the Year honors, while his top team objective is bringing home a state championship. “My goals this year are to win Gatorade Player of the Year and win state for my senior year,” Castillo said. Castillo put together an impressive junior campaign, finishing with 32 receptions for 700 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. He also scored two rushing touchdowns and added another touchdown through the air.

Looking beyond high school, Castillo plans to continue his football career at the collegiate level. “My future plans are to play college football,” he said. 24

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KANSAS TURNPIKE AUTHORITY DRIVING CHANGE ATHLETE

Wichita Southeast’s Mack Obar KTA “Driving Change” Athlete Spotlight After an offseason focused on improvement and preparation, Wichita Southeast quarterback Mack Obar believes the Golden Buffaloes have the pieces needed to take a step forward this season. Obar said he is excited to see how much the team has grown since last year and believes the commitment from his teammates has created a strong foundation. “I’m really excited to see how we improved from last year,” Obar said. “We have some good people this year and everybody wants to win. We have been working hard this offseason, and I think we are going to be pretty good.” During the offseason, Obar has spent time improving his skills through throwing sessions, agility drills and footwork training. He also attended the Grind It football camp, which he said helped him continue developing as a quarterback. “I have been doing throwing and agility drills a lot to get better footwork and working on my accuracy with the football,” Obar said. “I went to one camp called Grind It, and it helped me out a lot.” Obar said improving his passing ability has been a major focus heading into the season. He has worked with teammates on running routes, timing and becoming more consistent with his mechanics. “I want to improve my passing,” Obar said. “I have done a lot of practice throwing routes with teammates and working on my footwork.” Last season, Obar contributed both through the air and on the ground. He finished with 600 passing yards, eight passing touchdowns, 427 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. While individual improvement remains important, Obar said the team’s goals come first. One of the biggest areas he wants Southeast to improve is limiting turnovers, which he believes played a role in some losses last season. “Some goals I want are to be better than last year as a whole team and I want to be better as a player,” Obar said. “Another goal is fewer turnovers because that cost us a game last year, and keeping our heads up after mistakes and not getting down on ourselves.” Looking beyond high school, Obar hopes to continue his athletic career at the next level while pursuing a college education. He is open to playing either football or baseball and plans to study teaching or business. “I just want to go to college and be able to play sports,” Obar said. “I’m open to any colleges.”

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DAV I D K AU F F M A N ’ S AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Wichita West’s Landon Hauser

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Landon Hauser has spent the offseason preparing for what he hopes will be a breakout season at Wichita West, and the senior believes both his individual work and his team’s commitment have positioned the Pioneers for success. Hauser said he’s eager for another opportunity to compete alongside his teammates while also showing college coaches what he can do on the field.

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“What I’m most excited about for the upcoming season is playing with my boys and being able to showcase my athleticism to college coaches,” Hauser said. “My teammates have put in just as much work as I have, and I believe we deserve to win.” Hauser’s offseason featured a combination of skill development, camps and consistent work with his high school teammates. He trained at Sharp Performance Football Academy in Salina while attending camps at Kansas, K-State and the Top Prospect camp circuit. He also worked with former CFL running back Travis Theis and spent nearly every morning training with Wichita West.

The offseason wasn’t just about physical preparation. Hauser focused on improving the mental side of his game, particularly his vision and decision-making as a running back.

“One area I want to improve on this year is my ball-carrier vision and my patience in the backfield,” Hauser said. “Some ways I worked on that during the offseason was getting mental reps through film and finding drills that help me with my patience.”

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Hauser has set ambitious statistical goals for his senior campaign. He hopes to eclipse the 1,000-yard rushing mark while finding the end zone at least 15 times. Beyond the numbers, he wants to be a dependable leader and hold himself accountable every week.

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“Some goals I have for this season are to rush for 1,000 yards, have at least 15 touchdowns and to hold myself to a high standard,” Hauser said. “A team goal would be winning the majority of our games and coming out of the season a champion.”

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MORGAN’S STEAKHOUSE ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Derby’s Blade Clark Blade Clark knows success on the football field is measured by more than touchdowns and passing yards. For the Derby High School quarterback, the relationships built with his teammates are what make each season memorable.

“I am most excited to compete with all of my teammates,” Clark said. “All the guys around me are what make this sport fun. I know all of them are going to give it their all this year, and I’m really excited to do it with them.” Clark enters the season after an impressive campaign in which he threw for more than 2,000 yards and 29 touchdowns while playing just eight full games. Derby finished as a substate runner-up, giving the Panthers added motivation as they prepare for another championship run.

Rather than resting on last season’s success, Clark spent the offseason focused on improving every aspect of his game. His schedule often included lifting weights twice a day while also sharpening his quarterback mechanics with respected instructors Dan Dawdy and Jeff Christensen. He also devoted plenty of time to throwing with his Derby teammates, building chemistry before the season begins. “I’ve been lifting, mostly twice a day,” Clark said. “And I’ve been training with a couple of QB coaches, such as Dan Dawdy and Jeff Christensen. I’ve also been practicing and training with my teammates, to get a good connection with them.” While Clark’s physical preparation has been extensive, he believes his biggest improvement needs to come in an area that doesn’t show up on the stat sheet.

The senior wants to become a more vocal leader for one of Kansas’ perennial football powers. “I want to work on being a louder leader,” Clark said. “I’ve been working on getting my confidence up, and my teammates’ encouragement helped with that.”

Clark’s personal goals also reflect his team-first mindset. Rather than chasing individual milestones after last year’s prolific season, he is focused on maximizing every opportunity and helping Derby finish the season on top.

“A goal I have for myself is to give everything I have on the field,” Clark said. “And a goal our team came up with was to win our last game.”

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T N G P R O P E R T Y M A N AG E M E N T & I N M OT I O N ’ S AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Maize’s Pearce George Maize wide receiver Pearce George believes the Eagles have developed the chemistry and commitment needed to make a deep postseason run. George said the excitement surrounding this season comes from the combination of new faces and returning players who have embraced

the program’s expectations. “I’m excited about the team all in all,” George said. “We lost some seniors last year and gained a bunch of new players, and this new group has all been bought in to the process. We’re all ready to get out there.” George is also looking forward to showing the results of the work he has put in during the offseason. After a standout junior season, the senior wide receiver has continued to develop his game while preparing for a bigger role. “I’m very excited to show my talents and how much work I’ve put in and have a breakout year,” George said. That preparation has included training five to six days a week with his trainer, focusing on multiple areas of his game. George has worked on speed, agility,

strength training, yoga, route running and game situations to become a more complete receiver. Along with his individual training, George spent the offseason building relationships with college programs. He worked out for eight Division I colleges, gaining exposure and helping with his recruiting process. George has focused on improving the details that can separate good receivers from great ones, including sharper routes, better hands and increased speed. “I’ve worked on improving on my routes, catching and speed, getting out of routes faster,” George said. “I’ve been doing hand-eye and stretching drills every day, just trying to be the best version of myself right now.” George enters the season coming off an impressive junior campaign. He recorded 1,008 all-purpose yards and scored 24 total touchdowns. He finished with 707 receiving yards on 46 receptions, averaging 96 yards per game, while adding 17 receiving touchdowns, five rushing touchdowns, one kick return touchdown and one interception returned for a touchdown. With those numbers as a foundation, George has set lofty goals for his senior season. “I’m going to try and break the record for most receiving yards and touchdowns for the school, while also going for 2K yards, and win Offensive MVP of the Year in Kansas and WR of the year,” George said. While individual accomplishments are important, George’s biggest goal remains helping Maize compete for a championship. “The end goal is a state championship, and I know we all want that,” George said. “But also making a good run to know the caliber of our team in the regular season. I feel we have a good shot at the state championship.”

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Maize’s Josiah Cole For Maize senior Josiah Cole, the upcoming football season represents more than just another year on the field. It is the final opportunity to compete alongside his teammates, create lasting memories and leave a lasting impact on the program.

Cole said he is most excited about making the most of his final season of high school football.

“I’m most excited for my senior year of high school football,” Cole said. “It’s my last chance to play with my teammates, and I want to make the most of every practice and every game.” The senior linebacker has spent the offseason preparing for that opportunity by focusing on improving his strength, speed and conditioning. Cole has dedicated time in the weight room, worked through conditioning workouts and continued developing his football skills to be ready for the challenges

ahead.

While physical preparation has been a priority, Cole said his biggest area of focus has been developing into a stronger leader for his teammates.

“One area I want to improve on this year is becoming a better senior leader for my team,” Cole said. “I worked hard to set a good example by staying consistent with workouts, putting in extra effort during training, and encouraging my teammates.” Cole enters his senior season coming off a productive junior campaign in which he recorded 71 tackles, seven tackles for loss and three sacks. Now, he hopes to continue improving each week while helping Maize reach its goals.

“My individual goals for this season are to be a strong senior leader and continue improving as a player every week,” Cole said. “I also want to give my best effort in every practice and game.” The ultimate goal for Cole and his teammates is to compete for a state championship. He believes that success will come through preparation, teamwork and a commitment to one another.

“As a team, our goal is to win the state championship by working hard, playing together, and giving everything we have every time we step on the field,” Cole said.

SHARI LEWIS INSURANCE SHOPPE’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Northwest’s Cordale Johnson Cordale Johnson enters his senior season believing the Wichita Northwest Grizzlies have the talent and chemistry to compete for the school’s first state football championship.

“I’m excited that I get to go to battle with my brothers for one last season,” Johnson said. “I feel like this is the team that can bring Northwest their first state title, and I’m excited and looking forward to that opportunity.”

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That confidence has been fueled by an offseason built around consistent work. Johnson has spent much of the summer in the weight room and on the practice field, preparing himself to make an even greater impact on defense.

“I’ve been doing workouts almost every morning at the school, whether it’s weights or speed training out on the field,” Johnson said. “I haven’t gone to any camps this summer, but I have gotten positional work in.” Johnson’s focus has been simple: become stronger, faster and more physical.

“The biggest thing I needed to work on was getting stronger and faster so I can have a bigger role in stopping the run game and be able to provide more for my defense,” he said. His junior season showed just how dangerous he can be in the secondary. Johnson finished with 30 tackles, four interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown, 15 pass breakups, one tackle for loss and one forced fumble. He also contributed on offense and special teams with 482 all-purpose yards and two touchdowns.

Those numbers have positioned him for an even bigger senior campaign, but Johnson’s personal goals extend beyond statistics. He hopes to etch his name into Northwest’s record book while setting an example for younger teammates. “Individually my biggest goal right now is to get the interception record for Northwest,” Johnson said. “Also, to be able to push and inspire my teammates to want to work hard and love the game.”

As meaningful as that accomplishment would be, Johnson knows the team’s goals come first. “Team-wise, the goal is to make it to state and win,” he said.

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2026 5A TEAMS TO WATCH

5A GA MES T O WAT CH Week 1 Andover Central at Maize Buhler at Maize South Washburn Rural at Kapaun Mount Carmel Wichita Northwest at Bishop Carroll

Week 2 Andover at Andover Central Bishop Carroll at Wichita Southeast Kapaun Mount Carmel at Wichita Northwest Salina Central at Goddard Week 3 Bishop Carroll at Washburn Rural Goddard at Eisenhower Maize South at Maize

Week 4 Andover Central at Maize South Week 5 Andover Central at Goddard Derby at Maize South Week 6 Kapaun at Bishop Carroll

Week 7 Bishop Carroll at Wichita East Goddard at Derby Salina Central at Andover Central

5A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH

Spencer Crumirine, WR, Valley Center

Axel Pondei, WR, Kapaun Mount Carmel

Ken Huff, RB, Kapaun Mount Carmel

Tyson Ross, OL, Andover

Mitchell Frank, DL, Bishop Carroll

Jaxson Green, Ret, Andover Central

Brenton Findley, LB, Andover Central RayJ Logan, WR, Valley Center

Cooper Mason, DB, Andover Central

ANDOVER CENTRAL

Last Season: 5-5

Andover Central enters 2026 with a strong experience base after a 5-5 season, returning 26 lettermen plus six starters on each side of the ball from a team that lost in the regional round. Derek Tuttle’s Jaguars also return both kickers and add new schedule challenges with Maize and Maize South crossover games. Jaxson Green is the offensive

centerpiece after rushing for 1,641 yards and 17 touchdowns at 8.04 yards per carry, while Cooper Mason, Bryce Skahan, Tucker Taggart, Tommy Inkelaar and Sawyer Ramsey give the Jaguars proven help around him. Tuttle also highlighted rising quarterback Ty DeGarmo as the likely new starter, and Inkelaar already holds Division I offers from Kansas State, Kansas and Oklahoma State. Defensively, Central returns key

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Cole Rapp, Kapaun Mount Carmel Taylor Rieman, OL, Hutchinson Corbin Sullivan, Goddard

Oaken Williams, DB, Hutchinson pieces in Mason, Brenton Findley, Ben Greenfield, Cooper Green, Taggart and Bobby Sands, with added depth from Sam Tamas, Brayden Breese and Jared Cables. The Jaguars lost important seniors including quarterback Max Olson, center Paxton McLeod and defensive lineman Jaylen Wilson, but the amount of returning experience still gives them the look of a team that should stay in the 5A mix.

ANDOVER TROJANS Last Season: 6-3

Andover comes off a 6-3 season, a 6-0 league title run and now heads into Jamie Cruce’s third season at the school with a roster that must replace major defensive graduation losses. Cruce said the biggest challenge is replacing eight defensive starters, but the Trojans are counting on this year’s seniors to carry the program forward and

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2026 5A TEAMS TO WATCH continue its development.

The offense returns five starters and will again run the flexbone, with Will Quinn and Pete Vega forming one of the more productive backfields in this batch. Quinn rushed for 752 yards and 14 touchdowns while also throwing for 428 yards and four scores, and Vega added 1,011 rushing yards and six touchdowns.

Tyson Ross, a first-team all-state offensive lineman, and Zane Tucker, an honorable mention all-league center, give Andover proven experience in the trenches. Defensively, Jeremiah Guillot, Leland Schumacher and Jacob Thiel are the three returning starters, so how quickly the new pieces grow will likely decide whether the Trojans can repeat as league champions.

EISENHOWER TIGERS Last Season: 2-7

Eisenhower went 2-7 last year, but the Tigers return enough experience to believe they can be more competitive in 2026, especially on defense. Darrin Fisher’s team brings back eight defensive starters and a seniorheavy core, even though it must replace major offensive production at quarterback, running back and wide receiver. The offense returns linemen Landon Salazar and Drake Brecheisen, plus experienced receivers Braylon Lies, Trenton Erbert and Trenton Taylor. Fisher said the Tigers averaged 31 points per game and rushed for 1,600 yards last year, so the challenge now is finding new playmakers to replace all-state back Brayden Pappas and other graduated standouts.

third-year starters. Olivas posted more than 2,200 all-purpose yards and 20 touchdowns last season, while Sullivan added 14 passing touchdowns and eight rushing scores, giving Goddard one of the best returning backfields in AVCTLII.

Ethan Strickert leads the offensive line, and Corbin Sullivan, Brexton Madden and Cooper Glasscock are the main senior defensive returners as the Lions try to rebuild their aggressive defensive identity. Goddard still looks capable of competing because of its backfield talent and program stability, but the defensive rebuild will probably determine how high the Lions can climb this fall.

Kapaun moves back up to 5A after winning the 4A state title and going 12-1 last season, so the Crusaders clearly enter 2026 as one of the strongest teams in this batch. Weston Schartz’s team also won the GWAL title and returns a large share of its offensive production from a group that averaged 50.8 points per game.

Ken Huff is the offensive centerpiece after rushing for 1,618 yards and 21 touchdowns, while Cole Rapp adds a proven dual-threat presence after throwing for 875 yards and 11 touchdowns and rushing for 444 yards and 12 more scores. Max Worrell, Ethan Burr, Axel Pondei and Jackson Gosch give Kapaun more experience and size in the option-based I-formation attack.

BISHOP CARROLL GOLDEN EAGLES Last Season: 6-4

Bishop Carroll enters Chris Jaax’s second season with strong optimism after a 6-4 year, and the Eagles believe returning 15 starters plus a productive offseason in the weight room gives them a chance to take a step forward. The staff said the end of last season built real confidence, and the focus now is turning that momentum into wins in bigger games and a stronger playoff push. Offensively, Bishop Carroll uses a spread scheme with multiple formations designed to create mismatches and explosive plays. Jonah Mull returns at quarterback after rushing for 500 yards in just three games before injury, while Cooper Herrman, Brittyn St. Vrain, Harrison King, Aedyn Acosta and a veteran offensive line give the Eagles plenty of experience around him.

Defensively, the Eagles will base from a 4-2-5 and want to control the line of scrimmage while pursuing hard with all 11 defenders. Mitchell Frank is the defensive headliner after producing 41.5 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss and five sacks, while Cole Steven, Same Iseman and Luke Roberts also bring proven production back.

Defensively, Andre Robinson, Drake Berning and all-conference linebacker Julian Gallegos anchor the front, while Timi Moronfolu, Nate Martens, Ethan McAninch, Dimond Mundy and Leighton Hawkins give Eisenhower five returning starters in the secondary. Strong senior leadership and better depth are listed as strengths, so the Tigers look like a team that could outperform last year’s record if the new offense settles in.

GODDARD LIONS

Last Season: 6-4

Goddard enters 2026 after a 6-4 season and four straight winning years, but Tommy Beason says this is the program’s biggest rebuilding challenge in recent memory. The Lions return 37 lettermen, but only three offensive starters and two defensive starters from game one, while also trying to replace a senior class of 31 players that included eight college signees. The biggest bright spot is the offensive backfield, where quarterback Brock Sullivan and running back Erik Olivas return as

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HUTCHINSON SALTHAWKS Last Season: 7-3

Hutchinson starts 2026 under first-year head coach Luke Berblinger after a 7-3 season, with the Salthawks emphasizing team culture, physical play and discipline. The schedule is demanding right away with Andover, Derby, Salina South, Campus, Maize, Salina Central, Maize South and Valley Center all on the slate. Offensively, Hutchinson returns six starters and will operate from a spread attack built around running the ball, creating explosive passing plays and protecting the football. Taylor Riemen, Lamar Govain, Larry Jeremiah, D’Angelo Gray and Cedrick Gardner give the Salthawks proven size and athleticism at receiver and along the line.

Defensively, Hutchinson brings back eight starters in a 4-3 system focused on stopping the run, playing physically and forcing takeaways. Oaken Williams, Davin Williams, Brodie McCuan, Cooper Harris, Max Harris and Deshawn Adams form the heart of that unit, giving Hutchinson a veteran defensive core to lean on.

KAPAUN MT. CARMEL CRUSADERS Last Season: 12-1, 4A state champion

Defensively, the Crusaders lost major all-state talent, but Pete Keller, Aidan Flucas and Gage Nye return to lead a unit that still has depth from players who saw extensive action late last season. Kapaun’s own outlook says the Crusaders should again contend for both the City League and state championships, and the returning firepower makes that believable.

MAIZE SOUTH MAVERICKS Last Season: 4-5

Maize South comes off a 4-5 season, but Brent Pfeifer believes improved health and the experience gained by younger defenders could make the Mavericks a fun and competitive 5A team this fall. The Mavericks return five offensive starters and eight defensive starters, so there is a decent base to build from. The offense starts with quarterback Reign Illian, who threw for 2,507 yards and 25 touchdowns, giving Maize South one of the best returning passers in this set of teams. Hayden Nuss, Stratten Ebers, Carson Cantu and Riley Brown also return, with Ebers coming off 75 catches for 832 yards and 12 touchdowns. Defensively, Jackson Riley is expected to set the tone as a leader, while Kade Cary, Cole Haynes, Cale Caruth, Tristen Hiebert, Karson Davis, Jackson Carpenter and John Strobel strengthen the returning

GOOD LUCK HUTCHINSON

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2026 5A TEAMS TO WATCH core. Maize South still has to replace experienced receivers and improve the offensive line, but the quarterback play and defensive continuity give it a real chance to rise.

NEWTON RAILERS

Last Season: 0-9

Newton is coming off a winless season, but Taylor Counts said the program’s 2026 focus is on taking another step forward and finally creating momentum and excitement around Railer football. The message is simple: start faster, win games and show clear progress in Counts’ third season.

title last season. Mark Sandbo’s Mustangs return only four starters on each side, but they still bring back 21 lettermen and an elite quarterback, so the ceiling remains high. The offense should again be dangerous in the spread because Griffin Hall returns after throwing for 1,827 yards and 29 touchdowns with just two interceptions while also rushing for 982 yards and nine more scores. Salina Central also brings back three of five offensive linemen from a group that averaged more than 300 rushing yards per game, with Warrick VanBlaricon and Parker Pinks among the key returners.

yards and eight touchdowns and senior receiver Jay Curtis caught 49 passes for 772 yards and nine scores.

Armando Franco, Simon Flores and Cooper Anderes also give Salina South experience in the trenches. Defensively, the Cougars return six starters and will use an odd-front system that mixes looks up front while keeping things simple in the secondary so players can play fast. Kobie Henley, Maddox Girard, Jaxon Anthony, Caden Stauffer, Corbin Sparks Beason and Conner Riley headline that defensive core. Anthony’s six interceptions, Henley’s 74 tackles and Girard’s 68 tackles with five sacks suggest Salina South has enough returning production to be more dangerous than last year’s record indicates.

will compete at quarterback. Defensively, Dylan Fetty, Corbin Holdaway, Jace Schwartz, Landen Taylor and Shawn White provide the returning experience as Valley Center tries to climb in a difficult AVCTL-I race.

WICHITA WEST PIONEERS Last Season: 1-8

Wichita West looks like a team with a real chance to improve on last year’s 1-8 record because Jeremy Moss says the Pioneers return nine defensive starters and a larger group of players with meaningful varsity experience. Moss believes that continuity should help West play a tougher, faster and more disciplined brand of football in 2026.

The returning roster gives Newton more experience than a typical 0-9 team, especially with veterans like Kane Wise, Clyde Thomas, Christian Henderson, Cason Horton, Kingston Henry, Jaxson Hiebert and Landyn Rains back. Henderson is the most proven two-way difference-maker after posting 403 receiving yards, three touchdowns, 34 tackles, three sacks and 10 tackles for loss, while Horton had 41 tackles and Hiebert added 36. Kingston Henry, Thomas and Rains also bring back production on offense, and the Railers should be more competitive if that experience translates early. With Valley Center, Arkansas City, Andover Central, Goddard, Salina Central, Eisenhower, Andover and Maize on the schedule, Newton will find out quickly whether the rebuild is gaining traction.

SALINA CENTRAL MUSTANGS

Last Season: 12-1, 5A state champion

Salina Central enters 2026 as one of the top teams in 5A after going 12-1 and beating BasehorLinwood 51-34 for the state

Defensively, the Mustangs believe their athleticism on the back end is a strength, and players like Trae Wise, Eli Kreighbaum and Alex Garcia provide proven playmaking ability. The team goals are clear: beat Salina South in the opener, win AVCTL-II and keep winning in November.

SALINA SOUTH COUGARS Last Season: 3-8

Salina South enters 2026 looking to break through after a 3-8 season, and second-year head coach Christien Ozores said the Cougars are a hungry team that believes the work of the past two years is ready to show up on Friday nights. He pointed to a strong offseason filled with effort and energy as a reason for optimism.

The offense returns seven starters and should have a real chance to be productive in a power spread scheme built on multiple formations, motion and getting playmakers into space. Junior quarterback Izrael Telles is the centerpiece after throwing for 2,269 yards and 24 touchdowns, while senior running back Armane Redmond added 1,053 rushing

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VALLEY CENTER HORNETS Last Season: 4-5

Valley Center comes off a 4-5 season and heads into Scott L’Ecuyer’s ninth year at the school needing a lot of younger players to mature quickly, because only four total starters return on each side of the ball. Even with that turnover, the Hornets have reason for optimism because the offense gets back its top five targets in the passing game. RayJ Logan, Spencer Crumrine and Evan Chavez headline that returning receiving corps after combining for 125 catches and nearly 1,700 yards in 2025. Crumrine had 50 catches for 735 yards and seven touchdowns, Logan had 51 catches for 678 yards and five scores, and Chavez added 24 catches for 263 yards and three touchdowns.

Jackson Child is the lone returning starting offensive lineman, Preston Looney gives the backfield a dual-threat option, and Layne Loganbill plus Isaac Duncan

The defense is clearly the strength of the team, led by junior defensive back Treshawn Johnson after his 80-tackle, all-city season. Wyatt Powell returns at linebacker after 60-plus tackles and a team-leading interception total, while senior Landon Hauser adds another allcity presence with 50 tackles and leadership value. Offensively, West returns five starters and will operate from a spread scheme. Senior lineman Jacobe Copes, a three-year starter and all-city selection, anchors the front, while junior JeVaun Darnell gives the Pioneers an all-state, all-city playmaker and Landon Hauser plus Jeremiah Copes add experience in the backfield.

Hauser is also the team’s MVP nominee because Moss describes him as a natural leader who sets the tone with effort and toughness. Sophomore Ceaser Muniz is the underclassman to watch after already starting on defense last year, which adds to the sense that West has more returning substance than a typical one-win team.

GOOD LUCK MAIZE AND MAIZE SOUTH

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ALEXANDRIA JOHNSON’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Maize South’s Stratten Ebers

Eisenhower’s Nathan Martens

Maize South wide receiver Stratten Ebers said the excitement for the upcoming football season is rooted in Friday night lights and the bond with his teammates.

Football has always been about more than just the game for Eisenhower’s Nathan Martens. As he prepares for another season, the defensive standout is focused on making the most of the moments that have made the sport special to him.

Ebers is coming off a productive junior campaign in which he emerged as one of the team’s top targets, finishing with 87 receptions for 850 yards and 12 touchdowns in nine games.

Martens has spent the offseason preparing himself physically and mentally for the challenges ahead. A major part of his preparation has been improving his strength through powerlifting and maintaining a consistent workout routine.

“In this upcoming season I’m most excited to be playing back under the lights with my boys and the atmosphere of a Friday night football game,” Ebers said.

This offseason, he said his focus has been on improving his overall athleticism and expanding his role as a receiver.

“This offseason I have been training pretty much every day doing our high school summer workouts with wide receiver trainings, getting bigger, faster and stronger,” Ebers said. While he already established himself as a reliable short and intermediate route runner last season, Ebers said his emphasis now is becoming a deeper threat on the outside.

“This year I feel like I need to work on being a deep-ball threat,” he said. “Last year I was running shorter routes. This season I have been moved to outside, so everything I train and work on is for being a more deep-threat type of receiver, as my short game is already there from last year.” Ebers is not shy about his individual goals heading into the season, including another statistical milestone after leading the state in receptions a year ago.

“This season I want to lead the state in a statistic,” he said. “Last year I did with most receptions. I’m gonna try to go for a different one this year.” Still, he said team success remains the top priority.

“For a team goal, obviously a state championship,” Ebers said. “I want our team to go on a big run because I’m saying this now that our team is underlooked and we will be showing that we shouldn’t be.”

“I think what I’m most excited about this season would have to be the games,” Martens said. “Those Friday night lights are the most unique experience I’ve ever had at high school. That will be what I’m looking forward to and what I will miss the most.”

“One of the main things was lifting, I need to be always getting stronger than what I was so I did powerlifting and once that was over I went on my own time and had a workout plan going at least 5-6 days a week,” Martens said.

Along with strength training, Martens has worked to improve his football skills and technique. He participated in a hitting camp at Maize South, where he competed against players from other schools, and also took part in 7-on-7 competitions. He also focused on improving his speed through training exercises, including sled pushes and resistance band workouts. While Martens has already found success on the field, he knows there are areas where he can continue to improve. One of his main focuses is becoming better at locating the football when defending receivers.

“My one area I could improve on is looking back for the ball when I’m manned up on someone,” Martens said. “There were a few times where I would be right with someone and if I would have just looked back for the ball I could deflect or intercept it.” Martens believes improvement in that area comes down to repetition and building the right habits during practice.

“The easiest way to improve this is just practice,” Martens said. “When I’m put in a situation like this during practice I need to just drill it in my head to look for the ball.” Last season, Martens made an impact for Eisenhower’s defense. In eight games, he recorded 36 total tackles, including 26 solo tackles, 15 pass breakups, one interception and two tackles for loss. His performance earned him second-team all-league honors and honorable mention all-state recognition. This season, Martens hopes to continue building on that success while helping his team reach its biggest goals.

“Our goal is to always win state and have a good culture for our team,” Martens said. “The main thing that comes down to it is commitment, effort, and attitude.” Martens said the team believes those values are essential both on and off the field.

“We believe as a program that those three things are crucial to be successful on the field and off of it,” Martens said. “If we do not have a good culture we will not win games.” Individually, Martens has his sights set on improving his postseason recognition. After earning second-team allleague honors last year, he hopes to take another step forward by earning first-team all-league honors and receiving honorable mention all-state recognition again. “At the end of the day I want to go out and win every single game,” Martens said.

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JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Andover’s Tyson Ross

Andover’s Zane Tucker

Tyson Ross has already established himself as one of the area’s top offensive linemen, but the Andover standout believes the best is still ahead.

As he enters his senior season, Andover High School offensive lineman Zane Tucker is focused on more than individual recognition. His primary goal is helping the Trojans continue their climb and return to postseason success.

After earning all-league and all-state honors while helping the Trojans capture a league championship last season, Ross enters the new football season focused on one goal: leading Andover to a state title.

“The thing I’m most excited about this upcoming season is success as a team,” Tucker said. “The past few years the team has been climbing back up the rankings and getting better as we go. Most of the team is very experienced and has been playing football for a while. I’m sure everyone is probably just as excited as me to see our team do well and succeed.”

“The things I am most excited about this upcoming season are seeing what we are capable of as a new team and really pushing ourselves to the limits to reach our full potential, leaving nothing on the table,” Ross said. “We have great potential, and all we have to do is work for it, taking the narrow path so we can say we earned what we achieved.”

Tucker believes the team’s experience and chemistry could be key ingredients this fall. He said the commitment players have shown throughout the offseason has helped lay the foundation for what they hope will be a breakthrough season.

Ross said one of the aspects he is looking forward to most is strengthening the bonds within the team.

“Another thing I am excited for is building a brotherhood with some of the guys stepping up and my brothers that have been playing,” he said.

Preparing for the season has meant a busy offseason centered on improving every aspect of his game. Ross said he has dedicated his time to training, lifting weights and studying film to continue developing as an offensive lineman.

“I do these things to get my offensive line play sharper and to gain more strength because, as an offensive lineman, the position never stops evolving,” Ross said. “There is always something you can work on.” One of his biggest offseason priorities was becoming stronger without sacrificing mobility. “The biggest goal was gaining strength while remaining agile,” he said.

Ross also identified pass protection as an area where he wanted to improve before the season began. He emphasized refining his technique through additional footwork drills, pass-set training and countless hours watching film. “I trained my footwork and pass set, as well as watching film to study the game the whole offseason,” Ross said. While Ross hopes to continue developing individually, his personal accolades are secondary to team success.

“This season I want to win state with my brothers, and that’s the most important goal,” Ross said. “I want to improve my leadership skills and overall evolve in my offensive line play, showing progression from last season.” Ross believes the Trojans have something to prove after being overlooked entering the season.

“This season is going to be special for Andover because we have been an overlooked group of guys, and all we want is to maximize our potential at the highest level and win,” he said. Looking beyond high school, Ross has lofty goals. He plans to continue his football career at the University of Oklahoma before pursuing a professional career.

“My future plans are to go to the University of Oklahoma and play for three to four years,” Ross said. “After that I’m going to go to the league and, at some point, earn my degree.”

During the offseason, Tucker has dedicated much of his time to strength training and attending team workouts.

“I’ve been working a lot in the weight room,” he said. “Showing up is a big thing for me, so I try to be there as often as possible to get the best out of mine and everyone else’s time.” He also credits summer workouts with helping players reconnect with their coaches and strengthen relationships with teammates.

“I’ve been able to continue to show up for my team during the offseason,” Tucker said. “Throughout the summer we have a lot of time to get together and reconnect with our position coaches, and it has been a major factor in mine and everyone on my team’s level of success.”

Despite earning honorable mention All-AVCTL II honors on the offensive line last season, Tucker said he still sees room for improvement.

“One area I want to improve this season is most likely my technique on the offensive line and the ability to learn as I go,” he said. “Many times this offseason I’ve found myself not doing the most I can in certain situations, and I need to get into a mindset of a pursuit of success. The only thing that can help me in that area is my willingness to show up with the idea of getting better.”

Last season, Tucker helped anchor an offensive line that paved the way for a productive rushing attack. The Trojans earned recognition for their physical running game and aggressive play up front, and Tucker hopes that unit can take another step forward this season. His goals extend beyond wins and losses. Tucker wants to continue developing physically while becoming a stronger leader during his final year in the program.

“My main goals as an individual and as a team are to obviously win and dominate, but I also want for myself to get better,” he said. “I would like to get stronger in the weight room, better with footwork and technique, and definitely get better as a leader for my team.”

As one of the team’s seniors, Tucker hopes to help change the perception of Andover football by ending a lengthy playoff drought. “Coming into my last season at Andover High School, I want people to notice our team as one of the best and that we have worked for it, not having it handed to us,” he said. “We haven’t won a playoff game in years, and it’s finally time to kick it up and make people see us.”

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A L L S E A S O N S C U S T O M A P PA R E L L E T T E R M A N O F T H E M O N T H

Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Ken Huff After helping lead Kapaun Mt. Carmel to a state championship, senior running back Ken Huff isn’t just focused on his own accomplishments heading into his final high school football season. He’s just as excited about the relationships he’ll build and the opportunity to help the next generation of Crusaders. “The part I’m most excited for is the team dinners and the ability to bond not only with my teammates but coaches as well,” Huff said. “I’m also looking forward to seeing the underclassmen grow and develop throughout the season. It reminds me of my earlier high school years. The fact that not only am I playing with new teammates but having the opportunity to play one last year with my fellow senior teammates as well.” Huff has spent the offseason preparing for what he hopes will be his best season yet. Rather than simply maintaining his strengths, he evaluated his game and built workouts around areas he believed needed improvement.

“I’ve been preparing for the season doing multiple workouts a day tailored to the things I can improve on,” Huff said. “A day, for example, would be speed training, weightlifting and drills, whether that be running routes or doing footwork drills that simulate our offensive scheme.” His offseason also included attending college camps, where he showcased his abilities while learning from coaches and competing against some of the nation’s top prospects.

“I’ve also been attending some college camps to showcase my skills in front of coaches and have the opportunity to scout competition and learn from other coaches,” Huff said. “It most definitely improved me not only as a football player but as a man of God. These camps really showed me that I can compete with the best.” One of Huff’s primary goals has been becoming a complete running back capable of staying on the field in every situation.

“An area I wanted to improve was being a three-down back,” he said. “I felt as though that trait alone can put you miles higher than other running backs.”

To accomplish that, Huff committed himself to daily pass protection drills and catching footballs to improve his hands and hand-eye coordination. He also competed in track during the spring, running the 100-meter dash and the 4x100 relay to increase his explosiveness and topend speed. “Having home-run-threat speed is another thing that I wanted, especially as a bigger running back,” Huff said.

The hard work comes after a standout junior season in which Huff rushed for 1,618 yards and 21 touchdowns despite playing just four quarters in five of Kapaun’s 13 games. His performance earned him first-team Class 4A All-State honors at running back, first-team AllMetro recognition and first-team All-Greater Wichita Athletic League honors. Despite those accolades, Huff’s focus remains on team success.

“Some goals this season are to really make a statement to other teams that I’m the best running back, to win a state championship again and to teach the younger players to continue to be hungry and to get better and continue this dynasty at Kapaun Mt. Carmel,” Huff said. “I also want to average 10 yards per carry or higher and rush for the high 2,000s or low 3,000s.”

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RIKKI CASEY’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Valley Center’s Evan Chavez

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After months of rehabilitation following meniscus surgery, Valley Center’s Evan Chavez is eager for one thing: getting back on the football field with his teammates.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to get back on the field with my teammates after recovering from my meniscus surgery,” Chavez said. “Going through rehab has made me appreciate football even more.”

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The long recovery process has given Chavez a new perspective on the game and fueled his motivation heading into the upcoming season. He said he’s looking forward to seeing the team’s offseason work translate into success under the Friday night lights.

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“I’m looking forward to seeing the hard work everyone has put into the offseason pay off on Friday nights, contributing to my team however I can, and seeing what God has planned for this season,” he said.

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While many players spent the offseason focused on strength training and competition, Chavez’s priority was returning to full health. He dedicated himself to physical therapy, rebuilding strength and mobility while preparing mentally for his return.

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“My offseason has been focused on recovering from meniscus surgery,” Chavez said. “I’ve been committed to physical therapy, rebuilding my strength, improving my mobility, and doing everything I can to come back healthy.” He also spent time studying film and expanding his understanding of the game.

“I’ve also been staying mentally prepared by watching film, learning more about the game, and continuing to develop my football IQ,” Chavez said. “This experience has taught me patience, discipline, and perseverance.”

As Chavez prepares to return to action, one of his biggest goals is improving his explosiveness and athleticism while continuing to build on the work he has done during rehab. “My rehab has allowed me to focus on strengthening my legs, improving balance and stability, and building a strong foundation for a safe return to the field,” he said. Beyond his physical development, Chavez hopes to make an impact as a leader.

“I want to become a better leader by encouraging my teammates and bringing a positive attitude every day,” he said.

His personal goals extend beyond statistics. Chavez wants to return healthy, improve each day and serve as a dependable teammate. “My goal is to return healthy and make a positive impact on the field,” he said. “I want to continue improving every day and become the best player I can be, be a reliable leader who works hard, encourages my teammates, and represents Christ well.”

WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Hutchinson’s Oaken Williams Football season can’t arrive soon enough for Hutchinson’s Oaken Williams. He said one of the things he is looking forward to most this year is returning to the field with his teammates and working under the team’s new coach.

“I am most excited about our team’s new coach and playing football again with my

teammates,” Williams said.

After a strong season that saw him record 98 tackles, five pass breakups and 1.5 tackles for loss, Williams has set even higher expectations for himself heading into the upcoming campaign. To prepare, he has dedicated himself to improving in the offseason.

“I’ve been working out every day in the weight room and 36

making sure to show up to every practice ready to work,” Williams said.

Williams believes there is still room for growth, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. He hopes to become an even bigger playmaker this season. “One area I want to work on this year is getting more tackles and more interceptions,” he said.

His goals reflect that mindset. Individually, Williams is aiming for a milestone season, while also keeping team success at the forefront. “For myself, I want to get at least 100 tackles, and I want our team to go all the way to state,” Williams said. With his production already nearing the century mark in tackles and his commitment to offseason training evident, Williams enters the season poised to be one of the team’s defensive leaders.

Beyond high school athletics, Williams has his sights set on continuing his career at the next level. He hopes his hard work on the football field and baseball diamond will open doors in the future. “I want to play college baseball and football in the future,” Williams said.

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WICHITA DRIVING SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

Valley Center’s Jackson Child Valley Center’s Jackson Child is focused on offseason work paying dividends this fall.

After months of early morning workouts, team practices and college camps, Child said he’s eager to see how the preparation translates once the season begins.

“I’m most excited about building stronger relationships with my teammates and seeing all the work we’ve put in during the offseason pay off,” Child said. Child has committed himself to a demanding offseason schedule, lifting weights four mornings each week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays while also participating in team practices on Mondays and Wednesdays. He also attended several college football camps to compete against other athletes, receive instruction from college coaches and refine his technique. The offseason emphasis has centered on becoming a more explosive player.

“One area I really want to improve is my quickness and explosiveness,” Child said. “During the offseason, I’ve worked on that by staying consistent in the weight room, pushing myself through every workout and focusing on

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movements that improve my speed and power.” Child has set ambitious goals for his senior season. Individually, he hopes to earn AllLeague honors, compete for AllState recognition and attract additional college scholarship offers.

As a team, his expectations are equally high.

“Our goals are to finish with a winning record, win our regional and make a deep playoff run,” Child said.

Child put together a productive campaign last season, playing in nine games while allowing just three sacks and recording 21 pancake blocks. He hopes continued development this offseason will help him build on those numbers and contribute to a successful season for Valley Center.

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OLD CHICAGO ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Bishop Carroll’s Mitchell Frank Bishop Carroll defensive standout Mitchell Frank is entering the upcoming football season focused on leadership, growth and building on a standout junior campaign that placed him among the state’s top defenders.

Frank said the opportunity to return to the field with familiar teammates is what he values most as the season approaches.

“What I’m most excited about this upcoming season is having one more opportunity to play alongside some of my closest friends and see how much we’ve all grown,” Frank said. “We’ve put in countless hours of work this offseason, and I’m so excited to see that hard work pay off. I’m also looking forward to stepping into a leadership role and doing everything I can to help our team reach its goals this season.” That offseason work has included consistent training in the weight room and on the field, along with competition against top talent across the Midwest. During the offseason, Frank said he has focused on both physical and mental development.

“I’ve been going to summer weights and conditioning,” he said. “I’ve been working on my pass rushing and run stopping abilities with my team and trainer. I’ve also been going to camps all around the Midwest competing against some of the best offensive linemen in Kansas, Missouri and Texas.”

“One thing I’ve really been focusing on is developing a strong mindset when facing challenges,” he said. “There are days when I don’t feel like working out or running, but I know it’s what my team and I need to improve. I’ve also been committed to achieving my nutrition goals. Even when I’m tired, I make sure I’m eating enough to support my training and reach my weight goals. I believe discipline is doing what’s necessary even when it’s not easy.”

Frank enters the season with several personal and team goals, including a larger leadership role and continued statistical production. He said he wants to be among the state leaders in tackles for loss and sacks while helping Bishop Carroll compete for championships.

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Beyond physical training, Frank emphasized the importance of

discipline and mindset in his preparation.

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Cole Rapp After helping lead Kapaun Mount Carmel to a 12-1 record and a state championship last season, senior quarterback Cole Rapp is focused less on individual accomplishments and more on making the most of one final season with his longtime teammates.

For Rapp, the opportunity to compete alongside the friends he has played with for years is what makes his senior season special.

“The most exciting thing this season for me is me getting one last season with the friends that I have grown up with,” Rapp said. “We have been playing together since we were in fifth or sixth grade, and I’m excited to see what we can do as seniors.” Rapp has spent the offseason sharpening the finer details of his game. He said much of his work has centered on improving timing with his receivers while continuing to build strength and speed in the weight room under strength coach Coach Tabor.

“This offseason I have been doing a lot of specific work with my wide receivers,” Rapp said. “A lot more detailed things when it comes to timing on routes. Also a lot of strength and speed training with our strength coach Coach Tabor.” Developing chemistry throughout the offense has also been a priority, especially with new personnel in the backfield.

“One thing I really focused to work on was the chemistry with the wide receivers as well as with our backs,” Rapp said. “A new fullback is hard to just put in, especially when we run the option. It takes time to build that chemistry with them, and a lot of work has been put into that.” Rapp enjoyed an efficient junior season, completing 61 of 96 passes

for 1,012 yards, 11 touchdowns and just two interceptions. He also made an impact with his legs, rushing 58 times for 568 yards and 11 touchdowns. His performance earned him allstate and all-city honors while helping Kapaun Mount Carmel capture the state championship.

Despite those accomplishments, Rapp’s goals for his senior season remain team-oriented.

“First of all, to win state again — that is always going to be our goal — as well as win City League and beat our rival Bishop Carroll,” Rapp said. “As for individual, I am not worried about stats. I want to be the best leader I can be for my team. My job as QB is to get wins and control the game. I try not to worry about all the stats.” Looking beyond high school, Rapp hopes to continue his athletic career at the collegiate level. Whether that comes in football or basketball will depend on how his senior year unfolds.

“As for my future, I do plan to go play either college football or college basketball depending on how my senior season goes,” Rapp said. “For my career, I want to go into finance for my major and not too sure from there.”

CRYSTAL MCEACHERN’S STATE FARM ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Maize South’s Reign Illian After an injury limited him to just eight games last season, Maize South quarterback Reign Illian still put together numbers most signal-callers would envy. The Mavericks’ standout completed 191 of 292 passes for 2,507 yards and 25 touchdowns while adding five rushing scores, accounting for 30 total touchdowns despite missing time.

Now healthy and entering the new season, Illian believes both he and the Mavericks are ready to build on last year’s success.

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“I’m most excited about getting back on the field with this team and seeing how much we’ve grown since last season,” Illian said. “Personally, I’m looking forward to taking another step as a quarterback by leading the offense and making a deep playoff run.”

Illian’s offseason has centered on becoming a more complete quarterback. While refining his mechanics and footwork has remained a priority, he has also made a commitment to improving his strength and athleticism. “This offseason I’ve been working on becoming a more full-circle quarterback by being consistent in the weight room,” Illian said. “I’ve also been working on my footwork and mechanics.”

His development hasn’t been limited to workouts at home. Illian sought out elite competition by attending nationally recognized camps, including Elite 11 and the Under Armour AllAmerica camp, experiences that allowed him to measure himself against some of the country’s top quarterbacks. “I attended Elite 11 and the UA All-American camp to compete with the best,” Illian said.

Another major emphasis has been becoming a more dangerous dual-threat quarterback. Although he rushed for 232 yards and five touchdowns last season, Illian believes adding more speed and explosiveness will create even more problems for opposing defenses. “One of my biggest goals was getting faster so I can be a threat with my legs,” he said. “I’ve been doing speed work and more explosive sets in the weight room.”

The hard work has been fueled by a team-first mindset. While individual improvement is important, Illian’s focus remains on helping Maize South make a memorable postseason run. “My biggest goal this year is to lead my team to making a deep playoff run,” Illian said.

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Goddard’s Corbin Sullivan After making an impact as a nose tackle for Goddard, Corbin Sullivan is ready for a new challenge this season.

The senior defensive lineman will move from nose tackle to defensive end, a position change he believes will allow him to use his speed and athleticism in new ways.

position change.”

“I am excited to see how the Juniors are going to be stepping up to fill in our shoes and how I will be playing a new position,” Sullivan said. “I went from nose tackle to defensive end for this season. I am excited to see how my speed will help with this new

Sullivan enters the season with confidence after a strong junior campaign. From the nose tackle position, he recorded 52 total tackles, including 33 solo tackles and 19 assists. He also finished with eight tackles for loss and five sacks. His performance earned him several honors, including honorable mention All-League defensive line recognition, first-team All-Division honors at nose tackle and a varsity letter every year he has played.

To prepare for the upcoming season, Sullivan has spent his summer building strength, improving his technique and developing his overall game. Goddard’s offseason program began as soon as summer started with strength and conditioning workouts focused on weight lifting and speed training.

“We start right after summer starts for strength and conditioning,” Sullivan said. “Great opportunity for weight lifting, speed training and to keep ourselves in great shape for the season.”

Sullivan has also balanced football preparation with work as a plumbing apprentice, where the physical demands of the job have helped him continue to grow. “I also got a great full-time job as a plumbing apprentice and the physical nature of the job helps build confidence as well as more muscle,” Sullivan said.

Along with working and training, Sullivan has attended football camps and played pickup games with teammates and friends to stay sharp heading into the season. While physical preparation remains important, Sullivan is also focused on improving the mental side of the game. He wants to continue developing his football IQ, focus and technique as he transitions to defensive end. “I am wanting to work on my mental focus and ball IQ,” Sullivan said. “I also want to keep working on my hand placement as well as hip movement.”

Sullivan has already started working toward those goals by staying consistent in the weight room, maintaining his diet and hydration, and adding new exercises to his routine. This season, Sullivan has set personal goals of recording at least 10 sacks, maintaining strong grades and helping younger players understand the expectations of the program.

“My goal for my team is to stay motivated, positive and confident,” Sullivan said. “I would love to see my team make the playoffs again this season and to take it all!”

C L A U D I A S E G OV I A N O ’ S S H E LT E R AT H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Hutchinson’s Taylor Riemen For Taylor Riemen, the start of his senior football season represents more than just another year on the field. It’s the culmination of years of hard work and an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy at Hutchinson High School. With a new head coach leading the Salthawks, Riemen believes the program is headed in the right direction. “This upcoming season we got a new head coach,” Riemen said. “I’m super excited about where this team is headed with his direction and leadership.” The senior offensive lineman also welcomes a more demanding schedule.

“Our schedule seems to be more challenging this year, and we love us some challenges,” he said. “What I’m most excited for is to see how far I’ve come from freshman year. As you may know, this is my last high school season. I’ve worked my tail off prior to this season because I feel I have a ton to prove.” Riemen’s offseason has reflected that mindset. He has dedicated himself to becoming stronger physically while also growing as a leader for the next generation of Hutchinson players.

“I’ve been pushing my mind and body past its limits all summer,” he said. “I’ve been pushing myself to be a better leader for the people who will soon have my spot. I’ve been going to our practice field with friends who want to work just as much as I do, just going above and beyond to get the best from it.”

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The hard work has shown in the weight room, where Riemen has posted a 340-pound bench press and a 445-pound squat.

His junior season also produced an impressive list of accolades. Riemen earned honorable mention on the KSHSAA Covered Class 5A all-state team and the Sports in Kansas Class 5A all-state team. He was named first-team All-AVCTL Division I, recognized among the Top 100 Non-Seniors in Kansas and received Hutchinson High’s Offensive Lineman of the Year award. Despite those accomplishments, Riemen believes his best football is still ahead of him. His individual goals for his senior season reflect both ambition and confidence.

“I want to prove everyone wrong, and for the ones who believe in me, I want to make them proud,” Riemen said. “I want to make the Kansas Shrine Bowl roster. I want to be a good leader and role model. I want to make all-state again, but higher up — no more honorable mention. And if I’m stretching it, become an All-American football player.” While personal achievements matter, Riemen’s primary focus remains on the team’s success.

“With our new amazing head coach, I want to see the competitiveness and heart rub off on everyone,” he said. “I want us to stick together as a team and focus on the goal, which I believe is having fun while, of course, still winning.” Hutchinson graduated several key contributors from last year’s squad, but Riemen believes the players stepping into larger roles are ready for the challenge.

“I want our team to surprise the ones around us,” he said. “This year we lost quite a few key players, but the ones under them are playing their role and getting a ton better.”

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JODI OCADIZ’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHTS

Andover Central’s Brenton Findley

Andover Central’s Cooper Mason

After getting his first taste as a starting varsity player last season, Andover Central’s Brenton Findley believes his senior year could be something special.

For Andover Central’s Cooper Mason, the anticipation of Friday nights is what drives months of offseason preparation.

The Jaguars return a close-knit group that has grown together, and Findley said the chemistry has only gotten stronger as the offseason has progressed.

“The thing I’m most excited about is playing with my brothers,” Findley said. “This team has become so close that everything is just starting to click.”

Findley has spent the offseason preparing for what he hopes will be a memorable final high school season. He said he has been training three to four times a week with the goal of taking another step forward both physically and on the field.

“I’ve been training three to four times a week preparing for my big senior year,” he said.

One of Findley’s biggest offseason priorities was adding weight. Despite being undersized throughout much of his football career, he has relied on speed, athleticism and instincts to make plays. “One area I wanted to improve on was gaining weight,” Findley said. “I’ve always been underweight, but that doesn’t mean I’m not good. My quickness, athleticism and football IQ make up for it. I’ve gained about 20 pounds since last football season.” The added size could make an already productive defender even more dangerous.

Last season, Findley recorded 70 tackles, including 18 in a single game. He also finished with 4.5 sacks, including a three-sack performance, along with 12.5 tackles for loss and four pass breakups.

His numbers came despite missing two games with broken ribs, an injury that cut short his season.

Findley also believes there was plenty of room for growth because last season was his first as a fulltime starter.

“One of my goals is getting into the 100-tackle club,” he said. “I fell short by 30, but I was also out for two games because of broken ribs. At the start of the season, I didn’t fully know what I was doing because it was my first year starting. Now I’ve definitely gotten the hang of it, and I’m excited to see how I execute things.” With another year of experience, a stronger frame and confidence gained from last season, Findley enters his senior campaign with lofty expectations for both himself and the Jaguars.

His long-term goal is to continue playing football after high school, and he knows another productive season could help make that happen. “My plan is to see if I get any offers to play at the next level,” Findley said. “I’m working as hard as I can.”

“I’m most excited about getting back on the field with my teammates and seeing all the work we’ve put in during the offseason pay off,” Mason said. “We’ve built a strong bond as a team, and I think we have the potential to accomplish some big things this season. My favorite thing is playing on Friday nights and making plays in front of the town.”

Mason, a two-way contributor for the Jaguars, has spent much of his offseason focused on expanding his role as both a leader and a more complete player. That effort has included time in the weight room, attending camps, and studying film in hopes of sharpening his game on both sides of the ball.

“This offseason I’ve been working on becoming a leader on the team,” Mason said. “I’ve got out to the field with all different kinds of teammates and we help each other become better. I’ve gone to many camps and was able to compete and learn. I’ve also been very active in the weight room with my team and also by myself to become a more complete player. I’ve spent hours watching and studying all different kinds of film also.”

Mason said that development has not just been physical, but mental as well, as he looks to improve his endurance and consistency late in games. “One area I want to improve in is overall explosiveness and mental toughness,” he said. “Playing on both sides of the ball can be draining especially towards the end of games but being able to push through it and keep my explosiveness can be extremely beneficial for us. I want to be someone the team and coaches can rely on to consistently make plays and always give everything I got.” Those goals extend beyond individual performance. Mason said he is focused on becoming a dependable playmaker while helping push Andover Central toward a deep postseason run.

“My individual goals for next season are to be a reliable playmaker, become a leader on and off the field, earn more college attention, and be the biggest competitor on the field,” Mason said. “Team wise our overall goal is to win games, make a deep playoff run and be the best team we can be every week, and to also enjoy the season.”

Mason’s production last season reflected his impact on both sides of the ball. On offense, he recorded 684 all-purpose yards, averaging 68.4 yards per game, and scored five touchdowns. Defensively, he totaled 68 tackles, two interceptions, three forced fumbles, two field goal blocks, and returned one for a touchdown. His efforts earned him recognition in the league, including first-team all-league honors as a defensive back and second-team all-league honors as a wide receiver. He also received all-state honorable mention recognition.

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O N E S H O T A P PA R E L’ S A T H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Andover Central’s Jaxson Green Andover Central running back Jaxson Green is heading into the new high school football season with a clear focus on finishing strong, building on a breakout junior campaign and chasing another major statistical milestone.

that can separate good backs from elite ones at the next level.

“Some areas I want to improve on are, blocking, taking care of the ball always, and being more patient and letting the hole develop. I feel like I’ve been working on all of these by going to the football camp and learning from coaches and by me training and going to the field on my own I’ve worked on it all!” he said.

Green, who earned All-State honors last season, said the upcoming schedule is one of the biggest sources of excitement as the Jaguars prepare for a competitive slate that includes an early matchup with a familiar rival. “I’m most excited about our new schedule we have this season! We play Andover second game! I can’t wait to finish out the season strong!” Green said.

On the field, Green has already established himself as one of the top offensive threats in the area. Last season, he rushed for 1,649 yards and 19 touchdowns while totaling 1,942 allpurpose yards. He also earned All-Metro honors, First-Team All-League recognition as a kick returner and All-State honors at running back. Even with that production, Green said his preparation this offseason has been intentional and demanding as he looks to take another step forward.

“What I have been doing to prepare for the season is, training with Brian Butler, lifting, going to the field when I can to do running back work, and I’m eating right trying to gain some weight! I also been to a couple football camps I went to Hutch Community College, Drake, Memphis mega camp, and Missouri Western. These camps helped me a lot with recruiting and developing my skills as a running back!” he said. Those camp experiences, including stops at Hutchinson Community College, Drake, the Memphis Mega Camp and Missouri Western, have helped him refine his game and gain exposure in the recruiting process. Much of his focus has been on improving the finer details of the running back position.

Green said his development this offseason has centered on correcting key areas

That extra work has included training sessions with Brian Butler, weightlifting, and additional time on the field working through running back drills. Green said the combination of structured coaching and self-directed work has helped him better understand how to slow the game down mentally.

Looking ahead, Green is setting ambitious goals for both himself and the Jaguars. Individually, he is targeting a major statistical milestone that would put him among the most productive backs in the state. Collectively, he wants to see his team take a step forward after what he described as a season of growth. “Some goals that I have for the season are, I just want to make it to 2000 all purpose or to get 2000 rushing yards! As for the team I want us to keep developing and I want to just be the best team player and I want us to make it far in the playoffs, because last year we were kind of a new bunch I feel like we’ve developed a lot over the summer and we’re ready!” Green said.

CERTIFIED AGENC CUSTOMER EXCE

N I C H O L A S L A R S O N A M E R I C A N F A M I L Y A T H L*2025 ETE S P OStar T LCertified I G H TAgency for E American Customer Experience Kapuan Mount Carmel’s Jack Runyan The Kapun Mount Carmel football team enters the 2026 season with a chance to accomplish something that hasn’t been done at the school in decades — win backto-back state championships.

Returning offensive lineman Jack Runyan has embraced the responsibility that comes with defending a title and is determined to do everything possible to help Kapaun make history. “I am most excited for the chance to win back-toback state championships with my team,” Runyan said. “I plan to become the most valuable piece that I can be to pave the way to this monumental achievement.”

As one of the anchors on the offensive line at center, Runyan understands that success often starts in the trenches. His role may not always generate headlines, but he knows consistency, leadership and execution up front will be critical if the Crusaders hope to repeat as champions.

Runyan has spent the months since last November’s championship run preparing for the challenges 42

ahead. His offseason has centered on improving both his strength and conditioning while adding the size he believes will make him even more effective against opposing defensive linemen. “Since my season ended in November of last year, I have been devoted to developing myself for this coming year,” Runyan said. “Summer weights and conditioning have allowed me to put on more muscle and have conditioned me ready for the season. As well as working out hard, I’ve steadied my diet to put on more size, which was something I lacked last season.”

The commitment has extended beyond the weight room. Runyan identified one aspect of his game that needed attention and made it a priority throughout the offseason. He wants to be quicker off the ball.

“Last season I felt that I was slow getting locked onto the defenders,” Runyan said. “As a result, I’ve worked heavily on agility- and speed-based drills. Additionally, I’ve worked on the speed of my snapping.”

Those improvements could pay dividends for a Kapaun offense that relies on precision at the line of scrimmage. A faster first step and cleaner snaps can help establish rhythm while giving the Crusaders an advantage in the running and passing games.

Although team success remains his top priority, Runyan has also established ambitious personal goals for his senior season. He hopes his work ethic and performance will earn recognition among the

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state’s top offensive linemen.

“Some goals that I have for myself this year are making first team all-city, all-metro and all-state as a center,” Runyan said. “More than anything, I want to become a valuable piece of the team.” The Crusaders’ aspirations extend well beyond individual honors. Kapaun will compete for a Greater Wichita Athletic League championship before setting its sights on another deep postseason run.

Nicholas Larson, A 5813 E Central Ave Runyan believes this group has the talent and Wichita, KS 67208 determination to accomplish something few teams ever do. (316) 618-0526 “As a team, I want us to be GWAL champions and be theCERTIFIED first Kapaun Mt. Carmel team to go back-tonlarson2@amfam.co AGENCY IN back in the state championships since the 1980s,”

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T H E B A R B E R S H O P O L D TOW N ’ S AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Bishop Carroll’s Cooper Herrman Bishop Carroll Catholic High School senior running back Cooper Herrman is looking forward to one more Friday night stretch under the lights, with hopes that his offseason work translates into a deep postseason run. “I am most excited to play on Friday nights with my guys and see our hard work from this offseason pay off,” Herrman said. “I’m excited to be a part of the deep playoff run that I believe we will have this season.”

Herrman has been a key piece in Bishop Carroll’s offense and is coming off a productive junior season in which he rushed for 717 yards on 123 carries in 10 games with five touchdowns. He also earned honorable mention all-state honors and second-team recognition in the Greater Wichita Athletic League.

The senior said his focus this offseason has been on exposure, development and physical growth. He has attended multiple college camps, including stops at South Dakota State University, Pittsburg State University, Washburn University and Lindenwood University, as he works to put his name on the radar of college programs. “This offseason I have been going to multiple college camps to get my name on the radar (South Dakota State, Pitt State, Washburn, Lindenwood),” Herrman said. “We have contact camps this summer vs Wichita Southeast, Andover Central, Andale, and Maize South. I have been putting in hard work in the weight room and conditioning with the team.” That work has also shown up physically. Herrman said he has increased his playing weight significantly since his sophomore year.

this season is improving in the passing game,” Herrman said. “The ways that I have been working on that this offseason is by going to 7-on-7s and putting myself in positions to catch the ball vs other schools from the Wichita area. I also work on catching from my quarterback Jonah Herrman often during morning workouts.”

As Bishop Carroll prepares for the upcoming season, Herrman said team success remains the top priority, along with individual goals that match the program’s expectations. “Goals for season individually for me is to be up there for first state running back and be the best football player I could be for my team to win games,” he said. “Team goals is to finish first in GWAL and win the state championship.”

“I was able to go from 175 pounds my sophomore year to around 215 pounds my senior year,” he said.

On the field, Herrman has also focused on expanding his skill set, particularly in the passing game. He said that improvement has come through additional reps and situational work throughout the offseason.

“One area of my game that I want to improve on

CARDBOARD & PLASTIC’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Valley Center’s Spencer Crumrine After earning all-league and all-state recognition as one of Valley Center’s top offensive weapons a season ago, Spencer Crumrine isn’t entering his senior season chasing statistics. Instead, the standout wide receiver is focused on helping the Hornets take the next step as a team. Crumrine, who hauled in 50 receptions for 735 yards and seven touchdowns last season, earned first-team allleague honors and was named second-team all-state after establishing himself as one of the area’s top pass catchers. With a new quarterback under center and several talented playmakers returning, he believes the offense has the pieces to be even more dangerous this fall.

“I’m really excited to be working with a new quarterback alongside great skill players like RayJ Logan, who was also an all-league player last season,” Crumrine said. Preparing for the season has meant staying committed throughout the offseason. Crumrine

attended every team workout while also competing at several college camps to continue sharpening his game against high-level competition.

While his receiving production made headlines last season, Crumrine has spent much of the offseason working on an area that rarely shows up in the box score.

“I want to be a blocker in the screen game and short pass game to help out the other receivers and running backs,” he said. “I have worked on being stronger overall to achieve that.” That team-first mentality also defines the goals he has set for his final high school season.

“We want to win a regional title and pass our win total from last season,” Crumrine said. “Other than that, I don’t have any personal goals. I just want to be a better player than I was a season ago.” 43 VYPE KANSAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2026 | KSVYPE.COM

DAV I S - M O O R E ’ S AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Goddard’s Erik Olivas Erik Olivas has one final opportunity to leave his mark at Goddard High School, and the senior is determined to make the most of it.

After piling up 2,269 all-purpose yards during an outstanding junior season, Olivas enters the fall with lofty expectations for himself and the Lions. More importantly, he is eager to spend one more season competing alongside the teammates who have been with him throughout his high school career. “I’m excited about getting one last football season with my guys this fall and being able to show my talents to coaches and fans this season,” Olivas said.

Olivas emerged as one of Kansas’ top offensive playmakers last season, rushing for 1,600 yards while adding 446 receiving yards. His ability to impact games in multiple ways made him a focal point of the Lions’ offense and set the stage for an even bigger senior campaign.

Rather than resting on last year’s success, Olivas spent the offseason focusing on the details that could elevate his game. He dedicated time to adding size in the weight room while also improving the fundamentals that make him an effective running back.

“Offseason I’ve been focused on gaining weight and getting in the weight room and focusing on footwork,” Olivas said.

One area that received special attention was his blocking technique, something he believes will make him a more complete player. “I needed to improve my blocking footwork,” Olivas said. “I’ve worked on that by doing bag work and getting extra work with my coaches.”

Those offseason efforts are fueling ambitious goals for his final high school season. Individually, Olivas has his sights set on another milestone season, while his team aspirations remain the top priority. “My goal is to get 2,000 rushing yards this season,” Olivas said. “As a team, we want to make a run in the playoffs.”

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T H E E M P L OY E E B E N E F I T C O M PA N Y ’ S A T H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Kapaun’s Pete Keller The 2026 season represents one final opportunity for Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Pete Keller to compete alongside his friends and help the Crusaders accomplish something special.

“The thing I am most excited for this season is the opportunity to play one last time with my friends and do something that hasn’t been seen at Kapaun for a long time,” Keller said. The senior linebacker enters the season looking to build on a productive 2025 campaign. Keller, a 5-foot-11, 210-pound linebacker, recorded 79 tackles, six tackles for loss, two sacks, one interception and a defensive touchdown last season. He also contributed offensively with 114 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Keller and the Crusaders have spent the offseason preparing for the challenges ahead through a demanding schedule of

workouts and competition. The team has focused on building strength, developing chemistry and improving through game-like situations.

“During this offseason, we have been preparing for this season by lifting at 6 a.m. Monday-Thursday, competing in 7on7 against other schools, throwing and running routes in our free time, and hosting our own contact camps,” Keller said.

Entering his final season, Keller has identified areas where he can continue to grow as a player. He is focused on improving his ability to create pressure and make plays defensively.

job the best I can,” Keller said. “Our team goal right now is to win every day, whether that’s at a drill or an entire practice. We want to get better every day.” The Crusaders’ ultimate goal is to capture another state championship and prove last season’s success was just the beginning. “Our ultimate goal, however, is to win another state title and to prove that last year was not a fluke,” Keller said.

“An area of my game that I want to improve is my stunting and rushing ability,” Keller said. “To improve this I have worked on my speed, agility, timing and communication with my teammates.” While individual improvement remains a priority, Keller’s focus is centered on the success of the team. He believes daily preparation and consistency will be key as Kapaun looks to compete for another championship.

“My individual goal for this season is to give everything I have for this team and do my

C I N DY WAG G O N E R ’ S S TAT E FA R M AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Augusta’s Mason Pringle As Mason Pringle prepares for his senior football season, the Augusta standout is focused on more than statistics. He wants to lead by example, help build a lasting culture for the Orioles and leave the program in a stronger position than he found it.

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“This upcoming season I have a lot to be excited for,” Pringle said. “For starters, I will be a senior and leader on the team.”

Pringle said he has always earned the respect of his teammates, but he hopes his leadership reaches another level this fall. “I have always held a lot of respect on the team, but as another season comes to a head I hope to see my leadership grow,” he said.

His responsibilities will also expand on the field. After primarily contributing on defense, Pringle expects to play on both sides of the ball this season, bringing his physical style and experience to the offensive line while continuing at linebacker.

“Another major excitement for me is my changing role on the team,” Pringle said. “I will be playing both sides of the ball, aiming to take my guidance and skill with me to the offense side of things.”

The position change also carries personal significance. Because offensive linemen wear numbers in a different range, Pringle will change jersey numbers, giving him an opportunity to honor someone who has had the biggest influence on his football career. “As a lineman my jersey number needs to go up, and because of this I get the opportunity to honor my dad,” Pringle said. “He is my biggest supporter and my everything when it comes to football.”

Pringle has spent the offseason preparing for the increased workload with a demanding training routine that includes weightlifting, conditioning and plyometric workouts. He also works on position-specific skills such as linebacker footwork, lateral movement, hand fighting, leverage and snapping the football.

“Most of which were recommended from college coaches in various camps I went to my sophomore year,” he said. While confident in his physical play, Pringle knows there is still room for improvement. He has made pass coverage a priority during the offseason by competing in seven-on-seven competitions and refining that aspect of his game.

“I am a very downhill linebacker and I have struggled switching gears into pass coverage mode,” Pringle said. “So I have been playing 7-on-7 and working to slow down enough to get me in the backfield when it’s needed.” Pringle enters his senior season with ambitious goals. Individually, he hopes to earn league Defensive MVP honors while surpassing 100 tackles. Just as important, he wants to help continue building a winning culture within the Augusta program.

“My other main goal is to continue building the foundation we started last year for the team,” he said. “I hope to be a leader that inspires success even after I’m gone.”

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2026 4A TEAMS TO WATCH

4A GA MES T O WAT CH Week 1 Buhler at Maize South Chanute at Mulvane

Week 4 Mulvane at Wamego

Week 5 Wellington at Mulvane

Week 2 Mulvane at Buhler

Week 6 Buhler at Wellington McPherson at Mulvane

Week 3 Andale at Wellington

4A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH John Aldrich, OL, Buhler

Asher McConnaughy, LB, Buhler

Goran Djurovic, OL, Wellington

Luke Nottingham, OL, Rose Hill

Jacob Burklow, DL, Buhler

Jackson Curry, WR, Wellington Hays Ensley, DB, Mulvane Caleb Holle, DL, Mulvane

Kai Kirchoff-Jones, DB, Rose Hill Landon Martinez, DB, Buhler ABILENE COWBOYS Last Season: 5-4

Abilene High enters 2026 looking to turn a solid winning season into something more, leaning on a strong culture and veteran leadership to steady an otherwise inexperienced roster. The Cowboys are guided by seventh-year head coach Brad Nicks, who believes the foundation built over the past six seasons will keep Abilene competitive as new faces step into bigger roles.

“I am excited to see what this team can do this year. We will rely on our leadership and culture that we have built the previous six years to help us be successful this season. This group will be inexperienced at the start but have worked very hard in the off-season and they are looking to make 2026 special,” Nicks said.

Senior Ethan Evans is the centerpiece after three varsity seasons, sliding from tight end to quarterback while remaining a tone-setter on defense at

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1548 E 61st Street N · Park City, KS · (316) 744-7500

Trevin Miller, WR, Ark City Grady Myers, RB, Mulvane Jax Pratt, DL, Buhler

Mason Pringle, LB, Augusta

Cameron Rosenberg, OL, Wellington Nixon Standlee, OL, Buhler Sam linebacker. Evans brings production and versatility after an 81-tackle year that earned him All-NCKL honorable mention, and his move under center gives Abilene a smart, physical leader on both sides of the ball.

Running back/safety Dayvan Cuba and two-way lineman Cael Casteel join Evans as key returners who can anchor all three phases. Cuba made 88 tackles and was an All-NCKL honorable mention safety, while Casteel stacked 51 tackles

and five tackles for loss on his way to second-team AllNCKL honors in the trenches. Together, that experienced core gives Abilene a proven defensive backbone and enough playmaking on offense to chase another winning season in 2026.

AUGUSTA ORIOLES

Last Season: 5-6

Augusta heads into Dawson Elliott’s second season looking to build on a 5-6 year

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2026 4A TEAMS TO WATCH that the staff described as a foundation-setting season marked by growth, resilience and a regional playoff push. The Orioles believe their defensive returners, team chemistry and veteran leadership can help carry momentum forward even as they replace major offensive production from a strong senior class. Roman Bridwell, Jadyn Harris, Jackson Ingram, Mason Pringle, Daltin Apel, Jett Highfill and Cale Wills headline the key returners. Pringle and Apel give Augusta proven linebacker production after 60 and 55 tackles respectively, while Ingram brings two-way value with 10 catches, four total touchdowns and three sacks.

while Noah Parr anchors the defense after recording 68 tackles and six tackles for loss last season.

The file gives a shorter personnel snapshot than some others, but the returning pieces suggest Ark City’s clearest path forward is through Miller’s playmaking and Parr’s presence in the middle of the defense. If the Bulldogs improve up front and get more complementary production around those two, they should be more competitive than last year’s record.

Buhler appears to have enough talent to contend again, especially if it quickly finds the right defensive combinations around an offense that should already be ahead.

CIRCLE THUNDERBIRDS Last season: 1-8

Circle heads into 2026 with a new voice and a clear developmental focus under first-year head coach Travis Rauh, who inherits a young team that he says is “improving every day” and learning what it takes to be successful consistently. The Thunderbirds are intent on finishing the summer strong and carrying that growth into a schedule that includes Pratt, Winfield, Augusta, McPherson, Buhler, El Dorado, Abilene and Mulvane.

Stewert (LB) and Luke Owens (CB) forming the core of a unit coaches want playing “fast and physical” with everyone on the same page. The defensive emphasis remains simple: get a lot of bodies to the ball and tackle well.

Smith is the team’s MVP nominee after posting 1,000 allpurpose yards as a sophomore and earning second-team all-conference honors, and he’ll again be a two-way engine. Underclassman tackle Weston Johnson, who started the back half of last season as a freshman, is tabbed as a key young piece up front. If Circle’s leadership core continues to grow and the spread run game clicks, this young roster has a chance to turn last year’s struggles into a more competitive 2026.

The team lists skill positions, chemistry and leadership as strengths, which should help younger players settle into bigger offensive roles. With games against McPherson, Independence, Circle, Winfield, Rose Hill, Abilene, Mulvane and Buhler, Augusta should get a clear early read on whether that growth is arriving quickly enough.

ARK CITY BULLDOGS

Last Season: 2-7

Arkansas City enters 2026 after a 2-7 season with Chet Pobolish in his third year and a roster that returns five starters on each side of the ball. The Bulldogs will continue to operate from a multiple spread offense and a 4-2-5 defense, with the schedule again featuring tough league tests like Newton, Andover, Andover Central and Goddard.

Trevin Miller is the top returning offensive producer after posting 36 catches for 680 yards and six touchdowns. Dray Camp and Stratton Bruce give Ark City size in the trenches,

BUHLER CRUSADERS

Last Season: 6-4

Buhler comes off a 6-4 season and first place in league play, and Steve Warner believes the Crusaders should be very good offensively despite a demanding 2026 schedule. Warner said the program’s goal every year is to win a state championship, but that staying healthy will be critical given early matchups with Maize South, Mulvane, Great Bend, McPherson and Wellington. The offense returns a strong group around quarterback Asher Zachary, including Nixon Standlee, John Aldrich, Jax Pratt, Asher McConnaughy, Landon Martinez, Kolbi McCarty and Gabe Edmund. Warner specifically pointed to the offense as a likely strength, and the roster includes multiple returning linemen with allleague or all-state recognition plus experienced skill talent. Defensively, the file is slightly inconsistent about the total number of returning starters, but it clearly identifies Jacob Burklow, Noah Hays, Layne Burkhart, Jax Pratt, Dylan Scripsick and Garrett Gleason among the returning pieces.

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Offensively, Circle returns five starters and will operate out of a spread scheme designed to force defenses to defend the entire field while still maintaining a physical running game. Junior running backs Jason Smith (669 rushing yards, 7 TDs) and Aymon Oliver (669 rushing yards, 6 TDs) give the Thunderbirds a potent one-two punch on the ground, while junior quarterback Cole Wilbur (650 rushing yards, 4 TDs) adds another dynamic runner from under center. Senior receiver Rocky Cosby (197 receiving yards) and sophomore linemen Weston Johnson and Carter Jenkins help balance the attack with perimeter and interior strength. Defensively, Circle also brings back five starters and will use multiple looks, primarily a 4-2-5 and 3-3-5. Smith returns at strong safety after recording 27 tackles, with Aiden Frischenmeyer (DT), Boston Avery (DE, 28 tackles), Oliver (LB, 63 tackles), Trevor

EL DORADO WILDCATS

Last Season: 0-9

The El Dorado workbook reads more like a roster sheet than a full season preview, but it still shows a strong amount of returning experience for a 4A team under head coach Dan Adelhardt. The Wildcats have returning starters spread across both senior and junior classes, which suggests a solid nucleus on each side of the ball even though the file does not include a full outlook or team record.

Daniel Bowlin, Kael Morrison, Maddix Soper and Peyton Wight headline the senior returners, while Landon Bright, Hunter Conrad, Kingston Klein, Cooper Meese, Jackson Remsberg, Britton Wescott, Nellieon Williams and Brailin Wright form a strong junior core. Bowlin earned honorable mention all-league honors at quarterback, Conrad was

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2026 4A TEAMS TO WATCH honorable mention all-league at running back, Bright earned honorable mention all-league on the offensive line, and Williams earned honorable mention recognition on special teams.

From the returning-starter markers in the sheet, El Dorado appears to have a broad base of experienced skill players and linemen to work with in 2026. If you want, I can turn the spreadsheet into a cleaner capsule too, but based on this file alone, the Wildcats look deeper than a typical rosteronly upload would suggest.

schedule, McPherson should be tested enough to prove whether it is ready to move from solid to dangerous.

MULVANE WILDCATS

Last Season: 8-2

Mulvane enters 2026 coming off an 8-2 season, and Daniel Myears said the key challenge will be replacing the offensive line that helped power last year’s success. Even so, the Wildcats are optimistic because they expect the classes of 2027 and 2028 to step into major roles around an experienced senior core.

roster can keep them competitive despite losing 10 seniors from last season. Petty pointed to the return of all five starting offensive linemen and a strong defensive line as the foundation of the team.

The offense returns eight starters and will again lean heavily on 12 and 20 personnel, which means plenty of twotight-end and two-back looks with a run-first mindset. Kai Kirchoff-Jones, Luke Nottingham, Remington Merlau, Zander Ford, Caleb Williams and Myles Easley headline the returning group, and Petty said the Rockets also have skill players they want to feature more this year.

Rosenberg give Wellington proven production at receiver, tight end, running back and across the offensive front.

Defensively, the Crusaders will play a 3-4 and may still be dangerous because of their speed and athleticism even while replacing several departures. Easton Lynnes, Fisher Elder, Djurovic, Curry, Ethan Boyd and Zeka give Wellington a strong defensive core, highlighted by Elder’s 113 tackles and Lynnes’ 97 tackles.

WINFIELD VIKINGS

MCPHERSON BULLPUPS

Last Season: 5-4

McPherson heads into 2026 with one of the more experienced rosters in this batch, returning nine offensive starters, 10 defensive starters and 24 total lettermen from last year’s 5-4 team. Jace Pavlovich said the Bullpups are processdriven and believe this group has the pieces for a postseason run, especially if it improves basic alignment and tackling on defense. Offensively, McPherson brings back a loaded core led by quarterback Carter Bengston, running backs Dane Becker and Brody Milleson, receiver Ashton Malm and multiple experienced linemen and skill players. Bengston threw for 1,900 yards and 17 touchdowns, Malm had 58 catches for 1,134 yards and 13 scores, and Becker plus Milleson combined for 1,247 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. The Bullpups describe their offense as deep with gamebreakers across the board, while Dylan Hall returns as a defensive anchor after at least 55 tackles and two sacks. With Augusta, Great Bend, Buhler, Circle, El Dorado, Mulvane, Tonganoxie and Winfield on the

The offense returns five starters and will continue to work from a spread look. Grady Myers is the headliner after rushing 149 times for 1,194 yards and 19 touchdowns, while Hays Ensley adds major versatility with 184 rushing yards, 263 receiving yards and six total touchdowns. Hudson Myers, Colter Light and Tanner Hargrove round out the top returning offensive group, giving Mulvane veteran pieces at receiver, tight end and up front. Defensively, the Wildcats return eight starters led by Damien Nicholson, Ensley, Myers, Hargrove, Caleb Holle and Cooper Brown. The schedule includes Chanute, Buhler, Winfield, Wamego, Wellington, McPherson, Augusta and Circle, so Mulvane should get tested quickly. If the rebuilt line comes together fast enough, the returning skill talent gives the Wildcats a real chance to build on last year’s strong record.

ROSE HILL ROCKETS

Last Season: 6-4

Rose Hill heads into Reece Petty’s second season after a 6-4 year, and the Rockets believe their senior-heavy 50

Defensively, Rose Hill returns six starters in a 4-2-5 built on tackling and pursuit. Merlau, Kirchoff-Jones, Nick Jones and Nottingham form the core of that unit, while Williams is the underclassman to watch as a gritty OL/DL player expected to help immediately.

WELLINGTON CRUSADERS Last Season: 8-3

Wellington comes off an 8-3 season and returns a strong offensive nucleus under Jeremiah Meeks, especially at quarterback, along the line and in the skill group. Meeks said the Crusaders lost important defensive pieces and an all-state running back, but young players gained enough experience last year to be ready for bigger roles now.

The offense will operate from a spread system and should be led by junior quarterback Colton Elmore, who threw for 1,760 yards and 16 touchdowns while adding 460 rushing yards and five more scores. Jackson Curry, Cole Zeka, Jonathan Armstrong, Boston Bernd, Goran Djurovic and Cameron

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Last Season: 1-8

Winfield sees 2026 as a rebound opportunity, with Monty Lewis saying the Vikings must re-establish the physical, competitive identity that defined the program over the previous four years. With eight returning offensive starters and seven returning defensive starters, the experience is there for a better season than last year’s 1-8 finish.

Offensively, Winfield will stay multiple, ranging from twotight-end sets to five-wide looks, but Lewis said running the football effectively will remain the top priority. Dane Chattam, Rafael Ecot, Carson Meeker, Elijah Bergesen, Eli Tagg and Cason Reams form the main returning offensive group, with Chattam serving as the team’s MVP nominee because of his leadership, athleticism and speed. Defensively, the Vikings base out of a 4-2-5 with some 3-3 stack looks and want to play a bend-but-don’t-break style. Elias Moon, Jerimiah Lange, Carver Muxlow, Tayquan Brown, Bergesen and Ecot headline that side of the ball, giving Winfield a chance to be more rugged and consistent if the team regains its edge.

L U X U R Y L AVATO R I E S ’ AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Rose Hill’s Luke Nottingham For Rose Hill’s Luke Nottingham, few things compare to the atmosphere of Friday night football in his hometown.

“I look forward to just playing under the lights Friday nights with the same guys I’ve grown up with,” Nottingham said. “To me, there’s nothing better than playing in front of your hometown Friday nights.” As Rose Hill prepares for the upcoming season, Nottingham has spent the offseason working to ensure he’s ready for the challenge. His preparation has centered on building strength and conditioning through consistent work.

“I have been in the weight room daily getting stronger,” he said. “I have also been running to get in

game shape and get tougher.”

While Nottingham earned postseason recognition last season as a first-team All-League Division 4 offensive lineman and honorable mention All-State selection, his focus this year extends beyond individual honors. He wants to become a stronger leader for the Rockets. “I need to be more of a leader for the team,” Nottingham said. “That’s doing the little things like doing the extra rep in the weight room and just being someone the younger guys look up to and try to be like when they have to step up.”

That leadership mindset also reflects Rose Hill’s team goals after last season ended in disappointment. The Rockets reached the second round of the playoffs before suffering a heartbreaking loss. “As a team I want to win another playoff game from last year,” Nottingham said. “We lost in the second round last year and it wasn’t a good feeling to go into the offseason losing a heartbreaker.” On a personal level, Nottingham hopes to make an impact on both sides of the ball.

“Individually I want to be able to play both sides of the ball at a high level,” he said.

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WICHITA WIDE RECEIVER POLL WINNER

Wellington’s Jackson Curry Jackson Curry is ready to turn the work he put in during the offseason into production on the field for the Wellington High School football team.

The senior has spent the months leading up to the season preparing himself physically and mentally, while also building chemistry with his teammates. For Curry, the excitement comes from the opportunity to compete alongside his teammates and give the Wellington community something to cheer for. “I’m most excited about working with my team and showing out for all the fans,” Curry said. Curry has made preparation a priority throughout the offseason. He has consistently attended team workouts,

participated in camps and continued training on his own to improve his game. “To get ready for the season I’ve been going to every day of workouts, multiple camps, and training on my own about every day,” Curry said.

One of Curry’s biggest areas of focus has been improving his speed and ability to make plays in space. He has worked on becoming a more explosive athlete by focusing on his cuts and acceleration. “Something I’ve wanted to work on this offseason would be getting my cuts and speed better,” Curry said. “I’ve been training by myself on these things by using cones to cut better or even using a sled to work on my speed.”

Heading into the season, Curry has set individual goals while also keeping the team’s success as the top priority. He hopes his hard work leads to a strong senior campaign and opportunities beyond high school football. “One of my goals this year is to get 1,000 yards and maybe some offers,” Curry said.

For Wellington, Curry said the goal extends beyond statistics. The Crusaders want to continue growing together and make a deeper postseason run. “Team goals would be to be better brothers and make it past the third round,” Curry said.

KTA CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Rose Hill’s Kai Kirchhoff-Jones Rose Hill senior running back and safety Kai Kirchhoff-Jones has built his varsity football career on values that started at home and grew under Friday night lights. Kirchhoff-Jones, a Rose Hill High School varsity player, said his biggest inspiration begins with his family.

“My mom inspires me to be the best version of myself everyday. She has taught me how important respect, kindness, honesty and never giving up is even when life gets difficult. My stepdad inspires me on the field and he pushes me to work harder and believes in me.” On the field, Kirchhoff-Jones lines up on both sides of the ball, a challenge he embraces.

“I am a running back and safety. The most difficult thing about being a running back is making the right decision in a split second while protecting the ball and getting hits all while trying to gain positive yardage.” He still remembers the moment he first proved he belonged under the varsity lights.

“My favorite memory from a game is my

first time playing on varsity my Freshman year and making a big tackle.” Now a senior, Kirchhoff-Jones said the game has given him more than highlights.

“Athletics has taught me how to work as a team and discipline. I’ve learned to work hard even when things are difficult and to stay committed to my goals and support others.”

He said the bonds built in the locker room matter as much as the scoreboard.

“I enjoy the friendships and memories that I have made in the last 3 years. I love how my team really comes together on game days and how we fight to the end, win or lose.”

His pregame routine reflects that focus and discipline. “My pregame routine is listening to music, going over plays mentally and prayer.”

Off the field, Kirchhoff-Jones enjoys history class with his favorite teacher, Mr. Barger, and spends free time going to movies, fishing, playing video games and lifting weights. He said he admires the precision of dominant programs like Andale and

appreciates Rose Hill’s Fall Festival each October.

Kirchhoff-Jones also values giving back. He said the team stays active at the senior center, volunteers during the season and takes part in an “Adopt-a-Little” program mentoring junior football players, including teammate Levi McLaughlin, whom he calls “a dedicated hard worker and helps maintain team morale and an overall great teammate and friend.”

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D O N T O L A R A M E R I C A N FA M I LY AT H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Buhler’s John Aldrich John Aldrich is looking forward to testing himself when Buhler faces some of its toughest opponents this season.

“I’m excited about Maize South and McPherson games because they are big games in our eyes, and the whole team will mostly have an intense energy high,” Aldrich said.

Aldrich said his personal focus this season is to play with a more physical mindset. “My personal goal is to get violent this year — not throwing punches or any of that, but to have that strong urge to just want to lay people out,” he said.

While individual improvement is important, Aldrich said the Crusaders are united by a common objective. “The team goal that everyone wants is to be able to get a state champion ring, and or go far in playoffs to be able to say we’re not a bad team,” he said.

To prepare for the season, Aldrich has spent the offseason focusing on strength and speed. “In the offseason the main thing I’ve been doing to get better is weights and running

forties at school,” he said.

Looking beyond high school, Aldrich plans to pursue a career as an electrician while remaining connected to agriculture. “After high school I plan on going into electrician or something along those lines, a reliable job that lets me come home and farm after work,” he said.

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WICHITA QUARTERBACK POLL WINNER

Wellington’s Colton Elmore Colton Elmore is embracing both the challenge and opportunity that comes with leading Wellington into a new season. The quarterback is eager to see how the Crusaders respond to a revamped schedule while continuing to build chemistry as a team. One game in particular already has Elmore’s attention: a rivalry matchup with Mulvane that returns to the schedule after a brief hiatus. “I am most excited to see how this team builds together and competes against our new schedule,” Elmore said. “As a team we are looking forward to playing our rivals, Mulvane, for the first time in a couple of years.” Elmore has spent the offseason preparing for the added responsibility of leading the offense. He attended multiple camps, including stops at Tulsa, Washburn and

the Sharp Performance Top Prospect Camp, while also participating in a quarterback training session with Jeff Christened. The experience gave Elmore valuable insight into an area he believes can elevate his game even further. “My main area that I want to improve is my footwork,” Elmore said. “I learned a lot with Jeff Christened at his session and have been training on my own to get better.” That commitment to improvement reflects the approach Elmore has taken throughout the offseason. By seeking out instruction from camps and specialized quarterback training, he hopes to be more consistent in the pocket and better equipped to guide Wellington’s offense through a demanding schedule. Individual accolades are on Elmore’s radar, but his primary focus remains on helping the Crusaders succeed as a team. “Some goals that I have this year is to bring my team back into the playoffs again, earn first-team All-State and be a great leader on and off the field,” Elmore said. “Some team goals we have is to beat our rivals, have a winning record and make a great playoff run.”

SCCDAT ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wellington’s Cameron Rosenberg With a new season approaching, Wellington senior offensive lineman Cameron Rosenberg believes the Crusaders are ready to build on last year’s success despite replacing a talented senior class. “I really am excited about how we’re going to fill the gaps this past year’s senior class has left us and see if we can keep up the very high standards we have here,” Rosenberg said. “I’m excited to see how much the younger starters are going to improve from the past year.” Rosenberg said experience will be one of Wellington’s biggest strengths after fielding a relatively young team last season.

“I feel we’ve improved everywhere just because of experience,” he said. “We were a young team last year and were just getting better. It’s just getting in the reps and putting in work, whether it’s in the weight room, 7-on-7s, padded camps or mental reps. We are constantly getting better every day.”

The Crusaders have spent the summer preparing for the season with a demanding schedule. The team lifts weights and conditions every morning at 7 a.m., while skill position players compete in weekly 7-on-7 camps. Wellington also attended Fort Scott’s two-day padded camp and is scheduled to participate in a padded camp at Goddard to continue preparing for the season.

“We have been busy in the weight room and conditioning every morning at 7 a.m.,” Rosenberg said. “The skill guys have 7-on-7 camps every week. I feel they are always doing something.”

Rosenberg is confident the Crusaders’ offense has the talent to take another step forward, especially in the backfield and at wide receiver. “I have a great feeling our backfield will be the best we’ve had since I’ve been here,” he said. “Colton Elmore has more experience from last year, and John Armstrong will fill in and fit right into his brother’s spot with no problem. Jackson Curry will be one of, if not the best, wide receiver in Class 4A this year. He proved himself last year, and he’s just getting better and better.”

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Individually, Rosenberg has set high expectations after an impressive junior season. He recorded 34 pancake blocks, surrendered just one sack all season and earned a grade of more than 95% in both run blocking and pass protection.

“My goals for myself are to continue to prove why I’m an all-league and all-state tackle for this team and continue to be a leader for this team,” Rosenberg said. As for the Crusaders’ team goals, Rosenberg said they haven’t changed.

“Our team goals stay the same every year,” he said. “Ring the bell every time at home, make a push in the playoffs, stack hardware, get to that final game and win it.”

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WICHITA OFFENSIVE LINEMAN POLL WINNER

Buhler’s Nixon Standlee For Nixon Standlee, the 2026 season is about more than wins and statistics. It’s an opportunity to close out his high school career by competing against some of the state’s top programs while representing the Buhler community one final time.

“I’m excited about the level of competition we play this year with our first four games being against Maize South, Mulvane, McPherson and Great Bend,” Standlee said. “I’m also super excited about this season because it’s my last time ever putting a show on for my hometown, and I want to show out for them because they always show out for us.” The Crusaders won’t have much time to ease into the schedule, but Standlee welcomes the challenge. Facing quality opponents early in the season presents an opportunity for Buhler to measure itself against some of Kansas’ best teams while preparing for the postseason. To be ready for that demanding slate, Standlee has put together a busy offseason centered on strength, speed and exposure to college coaches.

He has trained at Next Level Performance under coach Rashad Daniels while also attending camps at Emporia State, Pittsburg State, Central Missouri and Missouri Western. Those workouts have come in addition to Buhler’s team training program, where players have gathered for 6:30 a.m. workouts five days a week under coach Steve Warner.

“I have been doing a lot this offseason,” Standlee said. “I’ve been doing specialized training at Next Level Performance with coach Rashad Daniels, and I’ve been doing multiple camps this summer at Emporia State, Pitt State, Central Missouri and Missouri Western. That’s on top of the five-day-a-week morning workouts at 6:30 with coach Warner.” One of Standlee’s biggest priorities has been increasing his speed while developing greater core strength. The specialized training has included

weighted sled work, resisted sprints and core circuits before lifting sessions.

“An area I have been working on this summer is my speed and my core strength,” Standlee said. “The way we worked on my speed was weighted sleds and weighted sprints with the sleds, and then we do core circuits before we even lift.”

Those improvements are designed to help him achieve lofty individual goals. Standlee hopes to earn recognition among Kansas’ elite seniors and collect firstteam all-state honors across every major postseason team.

“The goals I have for myself are to be in the top 100 seniors and be first-team all-state in every program,” he said.

As important as the personal accolades are, Standlee’s biggest priorities remain centered on team success. Defeating longtime rival McPherson and bringing a state championship back to Buhler top his list. “For my team, I want us to beat McPherson and win state,” Standlee said.

WICHITA DEFENSIVE LINE POLL WINNER

Rose Hill’s Remington Merlau For Rose Hill’s Remington Merlau, the upcoming season has a simple meaning. The upcoming football is about sharing the field with his teammates, continuing to grow as a player and helping establish a culture that can define the program moving forward.

“I am most excited about getting to play with my buddies,” Merlau said. “And getting the opportunity to improve my athletic performance.”

Merlau has spent the offseason focused on improving his skills and preparing himself for the challenges ahead. He has worked with coach Daniels while dedicating countless hours to refining his game on the field. “I have been training with coach Daniels, and have spent countless hours on the field working on my craft,” Merlau said.

Last season, Merlau made an impact on the defensive side of the ball, finishing with 36.5 total tackles, 29 quarterback pressures, three forced fumbles and 4.5 sacks. As he enters the new season, he is looking to build on that production while continuing to become a more complete player. One of Merlau’s biggest areas of focus is not just improving 56

physically, but also making a greater impact as a teammate and leader. “One area I want to improve on is being a better teammate and uplifting my teammates,” Merlau said. “We have spent a lot of time together and creating a better bond.”

Merlau believes the relationships built within the team will play a major role in Rose Hill’s success. While personal improvement remains a goal, he knows the team’s growth will be measured by the culture it creates. “Individually, I want to improve and show my growth from last year to now,” Merlau said. “As a team, I want to create a culture and set that as the standard for Rose Hill football.”

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R Y A N B R I D W E L L’ S F A R M B U R E A U A T H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Augusta’s Roman Bridwell After helping Augusta build momentum a season ago, senior Roman Bridwell is eager to make sure the Orioles keep moving in the right direction.

“I want to improve on being more of a threat offensively,” Bridwell said. “I’ll be stepping into a bigger role on offense as a receiver. I’ve been improving on this area by getting with my quarterback and running routes and practicing my releases.”

That mindset has fueled Augusta throughout the offseason as the Orioles look to build on last year’s accomplishments and continue establishing a winning culture. Bridwell said the team’s commitment has been evident long before the first kickoff of the season.

With increased opportunities at receiver, Bridwell has set ambitious individual goals while keeping the team’s success at the forefront.

“I’m most excited to continue our success from last year and to have one last ride with my guys,” Bridwell said.

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His production last season showed his versatility. Bridwell hauled in 24 receptions for 250 yards and a touchdown while making his biggest impact on defense with 65 tackles and a pick-six. Those numbers earned him all-league recognition and set the stage for an even bigger senior campaign.

“My personal goals this year are to be first-team all-league as a receiver and as a defensive back,” he said. “My goal for the team this year is to continue the success from last year and to give Augusta a winning culture. Getting another plaque this year would be great.” Ryan E. Bridwell Ryan E. Bridwell Agent, Financial Advisor

“As a team we’ve been lifting weights and conditioning every day at 6 in the morning to get us prepared for the season,” he said. “We had a football camp a couple of weeks ago where we installed the offense and new fronts for the defense, and to end camp we had a scrimmage with Wichita East.” Bridwell will once again be a key contributor on both sides of the football, but his responsibilities are expected to expand this fall. After earning honorable mention All-League honors as a defensive back, he is preparing for a larger role in Augusta’s passing attack.

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Clearwater’s Cutis Campa

As Clearwater High School outside linebacker Cutis Campa heads into his senior season, he carries with him a love of the game, a sense of brotherhood and lessons he says will last long after the Friday night lights fade.

Campa, who will be a senior in the fall, said one of his biggest inspirations is former NFL star Ray Lewis. “Ray Lewis because he showed that when times get hard and to difficult you fight through it and you fight the the painful times,” Campa said. That mindset has shaped how he approaches both football and life.

His favorite part of playing for Clearwater is not just the competition, but the connection. “What I enjoy the most about being a member of the team is the friendships I’ve made over the years,” he said. He describes the Falcons as more than just teammates. “What do I love most about my team and teammates is that we are one big brotherhood,” Campa said.

On the field, Campa lines up at outside linebacker, a position that demands focus and toughness. “I play outside Linebacker and the most difficult thing about it is trying not to get blindsided by the pulling guard or tackle,” he said. One of the wildest plays he has witnessed came from a former teammate. “The craziest thing I’ve seen on the field was an old teammate Cooper Williams one handed Mossed a kid,” Campa said. His favorite game memory came in a tight battle against a rival. “My favorite memory from a game is when we beat collegiate in a tight game,” he said. Away from football, Campa said his favorite subject is history,

and he still remembers a teacher who made an impact. “My favorite subject in school is history and my favorite teacher from any grade is my old Fifth grade teacher Mr.Janzing,” he said.

Campa spends his free time unwinding with friends and hobbies off the field. “What I like to do on my free time is Playing NBA 2k, Rainbow6siege, and fishing,” he said. He also enjoys helping in the community. “My friend Jace Wineger and I smoke meat and help out some events if needed,” Campa said.

Whether he is lifting in “My favorite place in Clearwater is the gym” or putting on his headphones before kickoff — “I think about all the things that irritated me over the last week or so and I but my headphones on and focus on the game” — Campa said he is focused on being a leader, a trait shaped by teammate Dalton Wulf, who “gave me guidance of being a leader and he made sure that everyone around him was getting better as the days came.”

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2026 3A TEAMS TO WATCH

3A GA MES T O WAT CH Week 1 Garden Plain at Cheney

Week 5 Andale at Cheney

Week 3 Andale at Wellington Garden Plain at Wichita Trinity Hesston at Pratt

Week 7 Wichita Collegiate at Wichita Trinity

Week 2 Conway Springs at Cheney Wellington at Wichita Collegiate

Week 4 Wichita Collegiate at Andale

Week 6 Cheney at Wichita Collegiate Hesston at Clay Center Wichita Trinity at Andale Week 8 Wichita Trinity at Cheney

3A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH

Afton Allaire, RB, Andale

Gavin Larson, DB, Hesston

Josh Duerksen, LB, Hesston

Gavin Schmitter, OL/DL, Wichita Collegiate

Bryton Baty, WR, Wichita Trinity Jrayton Dansel, LB, Andale

Jerrick Humphreys, QB, Hesston Ayden Koehn, OL, Cheney

ANDALE INDIANS

Last Season: 13-0, 3A state champion

Andale enters 2026 as the defending Class 3A state champion after a 13-0 season and another dominant postseason run under Dylan Schmidt. Even with major graduation losses, the Indians still look dangerous because they return proven all-state talent, a huge overall roster of around 88 players, and a program that has won state titles in 2024 and 2025. The biggest challenge is replacing a senior class that lost only two games over the

last four years, especially at quarterback and along an offensive line that graduated four of five starters. Still, Afton Allaire, Jrayton Dansel, Brody Winter, Parker Lies and Cruz Kaiser give Andale a strong spine, with Dansel coming off 81 tackles and all-state honors and Winter returning as a first-team allleague, all-state lineman.

Schmidt said the offense returns only three starters from a unit that averaged 60.2 points per game, while the defense brings back three from a group that allowed just 6.8 points per game. That makes development and 60

Gus Morehead, DB, Cheney

Gunner Goalden, OL, Hesston Brody Winter, OL, Andale health the major storylines, but Andale’s track record suggests the Indians will again be one of the teams everyone in 3A is chasing.

CHAPMAN IRISH

Last Season: 1-8

Chapman had a difficult 2025 season at 1-8, but the Irish return a large amount of experienced skill-position talent that could make them much more competitive in 2026. Head coach Jason Grider, entering his third year at Chapman, brings back eight offensive starters and

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seven defensive starters, including several all-league performers in the secondary and backfield.

Senior Audiel Becker is the headliner after rushing for 804 yards and seven touchdowns while also recording 87 tackles and earning all-league and honorable mention 3A honors. Junior quarterback Bo Rothchild returns after taking over midway through last season, while Colton Bell, Kaicen DeWeese and Dominic Krogman give Chapman an experienced supporting cast around him. The Irish believe their skill

2026 3A TEAMS TO WATCH positions are a strength, especially with Becker, Bell and DeWeese in the backfield and a loaded defensive backfield featuring Becker, Bell, Krogman and AJ Scott. Grider’s outlook is straightforward: if the offensive and defensive lines improve from last season, Chapman could be much improved in 2026.

CHENEY CARDINALS

Last Season: 7-4

Cheney comes into 2026 off a 7-4 season and another deep postseason push, and Shelby Wehrman’s program still looks like one of the strongest teams in 3A. The Cardinals have a large senior class, a talented junior group and a long recent track record of success that includes the 2023 state championship and playoff appearances in each of the last several seasons.

talent to expect another strong run.

CLAY CENTER TIGERS Last Season: 6-4

Clay Center heads into 2026 after a 6-4 season with head coach Marc Henry entering his seventh year and a roster that will feature several players in new roles. Henry said the Tigers have had a strong summer and believe they can put together a successful season if they stay healthy.

graduation of a 14-player senior class, but head coach Jake Bjostad believes the next group is faster and highly committed. The Indians return six offensive starters, four defensive starters and 19 lettermen, and the coaching staff expects a more speed-based identity in 2026.

Curtis Campa is one of the key leaders after earning honorable mention all-league honors and recording 70 tackles with six tackles for loss in 2025. Junior two-way contributors like Emmit Ohlde, Dallen Kanngeisser, Julian Sanchez and Noah Manheim give Clearwater a promising core, while sophomore Bear Bailey and sophomore quarterback/ defensive back Talen Tjaden add upside.

touchdowns while also rushing for 459 yards and 10 more scores. He is joined by senior skill players Ryker Wildeman, Kale Schroeder, Parker Jackson, Braytin Hake and Liam McNutt, with Jackson returning as the leading receiver at 399 yards and two touchdowns.

Up front, Jakub Brooks, Koehn Williams, Ian Loudermilk, Brody Knox and Caden Stein give Concordia experience in the trenches. Williams is also the top returning defensive producer after posting 81 total tackles, which should help anchor the Panthers on that side of the ball.

The roster is packed with returning playmakers, including Ayden Koehn, Gus Morehead, Colton Young, Casen Fowler and Landon Meng. Young gives the offense proven production after rushing for 706 yards and adding 254 receiving yards, while Fowler and Sam Johnson provide versatility and Morehead leads a secondary that returns with strong numbers and allstate-level recognition.

Defensively, Koehn, Morehead, Young and Meng headline a fast, experienced group, with Koehn coming off 66 tackles and all-state honors and Morehead posting 76 tackles and 11 pass breakups. Cheney’s concerns are a new quarterback, untested backups, leadership and staying healthy, but the Cardinals still have enough

A big part of that outlook depends on Ethan Lietzel, who is expected to step in at quarterback and lead the offense in his first year at the position. He is joined by Jarrin Brumfield, Cayden Good, Cayden Schwab, Noah Gibson and Brody Bowser as the top listed offensive performers.

Schwab is a notable name to watch because the staff wrote that he is “only a soph, but will be a dominat player for us.” Gibson and Bowser give Clay Center size and stability in the trenches, which should be important for a team breaking in new faces.

Defensively, Clay Center lists Lietzel, Brumfield and Good in the secondary, with Schwab and Gibson at linebacker and Bowser on the defensive line. With early games against Wamego, Marysville, Osawatomie, Smoky Valley and Abilene, the Tigers should find out quickly how fast this new group can come together.

CLEARWATER INDIANS Last Season: 3-6

Clearwater is retooling after a 3-6 season and the

Bjostad noted that this younger group has been committed all offseason, and the roster should fit Clearwater’s shotgun offense and 4-3 defensive approach better with added speed. If the younger players mature quickly, the Indians have enough talent to be more dangerous than last year’s record suggests.

CONCORDIA PANTHERS

Last Season: 4-5

Concordia heads into 2026 with a veteran core under third-year head coach Brad Wildeman after finishing 4-5 last season. The Panthers run a spread offense and 4-2-5 defense, and they return a long list of experienced seniors that should give them a chance to take a step forward. Senior quarterback Drake Blochlinger is the centerpiece after throwing for 1,449 yards and 10

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HESSTON SWATHERS

Last Season: 6-4

Hesston returns a veteran, productive core from a 6-4 team, and Tyson Bauerle enters his 10th season at the school with a group that brings back six offensive starters, seven defensive starters and 19 letter winners. The Swathers operate from 21 personnel on offense and an even front on defense, and much of their outlook centers on an accomplished senior class.

Senior quarterback Jerick Humphreys is one of the top returning players in this batch after already throwing for 3,178 career yards and 26 touchdowns while adding 12 rushing scores as a starter. He is surrounded by experienced weapons like Kason Landes, Tim Rhodes, Drew Bartell, Gavin Larson and Eli Haug, giving Hesston proven production in both the run and pass game. Defensively, Josh Duerksen and Landes lead a physical front seven after posting 107 and 104 tackles, while

2026 3A TEAMS TO WATCH Gunner Goalden gives the Swathers an all-state-level force up front and Larson anchors the secondary after four interceptions. With this many established contributors back, Hesston looks built to remain a strong 3A contender.

LYONS LIONS

Last Season: 1-8

Lyons enters 2026 under new head coach Wyatt Seidl after a 1-8 season, and the Lions are leaning heavily on a hungry senior class to help turn the program forward. Seidl wrote that the team is built on hunger, hard work and purpose, and that the summer has provided a strong starting point.

head coach Parker Bruce believes the Panthers built a real foundation late last year and now bring back more experience than the record suggests. Nickerson returns multiple offensive weapons, a large roster of 50-plus players and a team entering its second year in the same playbook. The offense will revolve around junior running back Rylan Morrell after his 830-yard, seven-touchdown season, while Connor White, Zein Rector, Conner Bower and junior tight end KC Keeler are also key pieces. A major question is quarterback, where Noah Weber is expected to step in after two years as the JV quarterback and replace three-year starter Kris Monroe Jr.

The Vikings will run a shotgun Wing T offense and a 3-3-5 defense, with senior Crew Elliot, senior Auley Boughfman, senior Rebel O’Ferell and senior Mason Jowers forming much of the experienced core. Sophomore quarterback Mason Riedel is projected to start right away, while sophomore Eli Lambert and juniors Nicholas Carlson, Owen Ratcliff and Collin Opat are among the young players expected to take on major roles. Lambert said one of the biggest keys will be for the younger players to grow up quickly while the upperclassmen play like upperclassmen. With Elliot, Boughfman and O’Ferell bringing experience and leadership, Smoky Valley should be more competitive if the young pieces settle in fast.

Defensively, Collegiate returns six starters in a 4-2-5 scheme led by Blake Sprole, who posted 76 tackles, four sacks and eight tackles for loss. Carson Malaise, Mason Bond, Ethan Eyster and Blake Dudley add more experience to a unit that wants to stop the run and pressure the quarterback, while senior lineman Gavin Schmitter is the team’s MVP nominee.

WICHITA TRINITY KNIGHTS Last Season: 4-5

Wichita Trinity heads into Year 2 under Ryan Schadler with real optimism after returning eight of 11 starters on both offense and defense from last year’s 4-5 team. Schadler said the Knights have lots of experience up front on both sides of the ball and are eager to build off last season against a challenging schedule.

The Lions list eight returning starters, including seniors Landen Birzer, Detrell Stanley, Teagan Link, Jace Thompson and Quanick Hamilton, along with juniors Ismael Chico, Logan Ferguson and Xander Young. Lyons also has a group of newcomers that includes Isaac Johansen, Jackson Smith, Ethan Cereceres, Adahir Rivera, Alex Lara, Lowen Ferguson, Jordan Gomez and Gage Grizzle. “Our eight seniors are committed to leading by example,” Seidl said, adding that the team is focused every day on becoming part of the solution and taking another step forward. After several difficult seasons, Lyons’ immediate goal is simple and clear: be ready to compete when the season opens on September 4.

NICKERSON PANTHERS

Last Season: 1-8

Nickerson heads into 2026 coming off a 1-8 season, but

Defensively, the Panthers bring a lot back in the front and secondary despite graduating top tacklers Riley Brawner and Gabe Taylor. Bruce highlighted returning players such as Connor White, Keeler, Brady Engelland, Aaden Vedder, Zein Rector, Kagyn Rice, Dagan Schneider, Corbin Shelton, Chase Welch, Maxx White and Jeffren Rodriguez, giving Nickerson a bigger base to build from in 2026.

SMOKY VALLEY VIKINGS Last Season: 3-6

Smoky Valley begins a new era with Caleb Lambert taking over as head coach after serving as an assistant, and the Vikings enter 2026 after a 3-6 season. Lambert said the team will be very young in some key positions, but he also believes the mix of experienced seniors and promising younger players gives the program real excitement. 62

WICHITA COLLEGIATE SPARTANS Last Season: 3-6

Wichita Collegiate enters 2026 under first-year head coach Brian Hill looking to reset after a 3-6 season that was heavily affected by injuries, especially at quarterback. Hill said the Spartans want to turn last year’s adversity into growth by building consistency, staying healthy and establishing a clear identity in all three phases.

The offense returns five starters and will operate from a spread pistol system designed to get playmakers the ball in space. Jacobi Salyers threw for 1,030 yards and seven touchdowns last season, Landon Langston is back after being injured in Week 1, and receivers Mason Bond and Ethan Eyster provide proven production on the perimeter.

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The offense runs a power spread system with RPO elements, shifts and motion, and it features one of the more explosive returning receivers in junior Bryton Baty. Baty caught 28 passes for 628 yards and 10 touchdowns and earned allstate and all-league honors, while senior Korie Murphy, junior quarterback Cam Killgore and senior linemen Jonah Morris and Kaden Chalashtari give Trinity a strong supporting cast.

Defensively, Kaufman, Killgore, Baty and Chalashtari headline a versatile 4-2-5 unit that uses multiple fronts, coverages and stunts. Baty is also the MVP nominee, and Schadler said he is one of the best high school receivers he has seen, noting that he was all-state on both sides of the ball last season.

WICHITA AREA ATHELETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Trinity’s Bryton Baty As Wichita Trinity prepares for the upcoming football season, Bryton Baty is ready to take on a larger role both on and off the field. The upperclassman said stepping into a leadership position is one of the things he is looking forward to most as the Knights build on the progress they made a season ago. “I am excited to go into this season as a leader, being an upperclassman,” Baty said. “I am also excited about the new coaches we have. The team is excited to build on the momentum that we gained last season.” Baty has spent the offseason preparing for the increased expectations through a disciplined training routine

designed to improve every aspect of his game. His mornings have been filled with weightlifting sessions, while afternoons have included positionspecific workouts. He has also focused on nutrition and gained additional experience by attending college camps and combines. “To prepare for this season, I have been doing weights every morning, position-specific workouts, focusing on my nutrition and attending college camps and combines,” Baty said. His biggest offseason priority was improving his athleticism, particularly his speed and strength. “This year my goal was to get faster and stronger,” Baty said. “I have worked on that by doing speed and agility workouts, as well as lifting.” Those improvements are all part of Baty’s plan to make a bigger impact this fall. Individually, he has set an ambitious milestone of reaching 1,000 rushing yards, but his personal goals take a back seat to what the Knights hope to accomplish as a team. “Individually, I would like to have a 1,000-yard season,” Baty said. “Our goal as a team is to win a state title.”

WICHITA DEFENSIVE BACK POLL WINNER

Hesston’s Gavin Larson As his senior season approaches, Hesston’s Gavin Larson believes the work put in long before kickoff will determine how far the Swathers can go this fall.

Larson said he is eager to see the team’s offseason commitment translate into success on the field, especially with a senior class that has embraced the responsibility of leading by example.

“I’m really excited to play again with my teammates and see all of our hard work pay off,” Larson said. “Our senior class sets the example in the offseason with our commitment to making ourselves better for the team.” Larson has spent the offseason preparing for an expanded role, dedicating himself to strength training while working with trainers to improve his athleticism. The preparation is aimed at allowing him to contribute on both sides of the ball during his final high school season. “This offseason I have really hit the weight room and worked with trainers to prepare myself to play both sides of the game this year in order to show the best me going into my senior year,” he said.

Already one of the Central Kansas League’s top defensive backs, Larson is focused on becoming an even more complete player. After recording 49 tackles and four interceptions last season — including two returned for touchdowns — and earning first-team All-CKL honors, he wants to make an even bigger impact this fall. “I hope to show my speed and being able to fly around in the secondary even faster,” Larson said. “I also want to be the vocal leader for the team. I watch a lot of film to prepare myself and my teammates against any opponent we face.” Leadership has become just as important to Larson as production. He

wants to set the tone through preparation, communication and consistency while helping the Swathers take the next step after several postseason disappointments. His personal goals reflect his high expectations.

“My individual goals would be first-team all-state and to lead the league in interceptions and tackles in the defensive back position,” Larson said.

Those individual aspirations are secondary to what Larson hopes Hesston can accomplish as a team. After being eliminated in the second round of the playoffs in each of the past three seasons, the Swathers are determined to break through. “For our team, we want to be league champs and go undefeated in the regular season,” Larson said. “We have gotten knocked out in the second round of playoffs the last three years, so we look to get past that round this year and make it to state.”

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GREEN RIDGE LANDSCAPING’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Clearwater’s Dallen Kanngiesser Dallen Kanngiesser is eager to get back on the field with his Clearwater teammates this fall, and the work he has put in throughout the offseason has him ready to make an impact.

After dedicating himself to an intense summer training schedule, Kanngiesser believes both he and the Wildcats are prepared to take the next step this season. While individual improvement has been a focus, he said playing alongside his teammates again is what excites him the most. “I’m most excited this season to play with my team again,” Kanngiesser said.

His offseason has been built around consistency and hard work. Kanngiesser has spent countless hours in the weight room, lifting twice a day while also attending two football camps to sharpen his skills against quality competition. He has complemented that work with speed training, focusing on sprint workouts to become a more explosive player. “This year I want to improve more on my speed,” Kanngiesser said. “I have been running sprints.”

While Kanngiesser is determined to improve individually, he believes Clearwater’s biggest strides must come as a team. Building stronger relationships and establishing a winning culture are priorities as the Wildcats prepare for the upcoming season.

“Some goals for our team are being more of a family and changing our culture,” Kanngiesser said.

Those goals reflect the mindset Kanngiesser has embraced throughout the offseason. By combining a demanding workout routine with a commitment to becoming a faster, more complete player, he hopes to help Clearwater develop into a more connected and competitive team this fall.

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WICHITA COLLEGIATE’S TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Collegiate Football After enduring an injury-plagued 3-6 season in 2025, Wichita Collegiate enters the upcoming football season focused on restoring the standard of one of the area’s traditionally successful programs. First-year head coach Brian Hill believes the adversity his team faced a year ago — particularly injuries at quarterback — could prove beneficial as the Spartans look to rebound.

“After a challenging 3-6 season a year ago, one marked by injuries, especially at the quarterback position, we will be looking to renew the energy and optimism of a very traditionally proud program,” Hill said. “With the adversity of last season providing valuable experience, the team looks to build consistency, stay healthy and establish a clear identity in all three phases.” The Spartans return five offensive starters and six on defense, giving Hill a veteran foundation to build around. Leading the offense are senior quarterback Landon Langston, who was sidelined after suffering a season-ending injury in Week 1 last fall, and junior Jacobi Salyers, who stepped in to throw for 1,030 yards with seven touchdowns. Hill expects the quarterback duo to lead a spread pistol offense designed to maximize the athleticism of Collegiate’s playmakers. “We will be a spread pistol team,” Hill said. “We’re looking to get the ball to our playmakers in space.” Those playmakers include senior receiver Mason Bond, who hauled in 19 receptions for 267 yards, and junior Ethan Eyster, who finished with 15 catches for 312 yards. Senior offensive

lineman Gavin Schmitter anchors the front after another productive offseason. The Friends University commit has earned praise from Hill for his work ethic and development.

“Gavin plays both ways. He has a high motor, is a very good student and continues to get bigger, faster and stronger this offseason,” Hill said. “He’s looking to have a big senior campaign.”

Defensively, Collegiate will operate from a 4-2-5 scheme centered on physicality at the line of scrimmage.

“We need to stop the run and create pressure on the quarterback,” Hill said. The Spartans return an experienced defensive core led by linebacker Blake Sprole, Bond and Eyster in the secondary, linebacker Carson Malaise and defensive lineman Blake Dudley.

One of the program’s rising stars is sophomore defensive back Jai Johnson, who started the final five games as a freshman.

“Jai started the last five games of the season as a freshman,” Hill said. “He is a very good athlete and will be an explosive athlete for us in the years to come.” Hill believes the experience gained during last season’s difficult campaign has positioned the Spartans to take a significant step forward.

“A fresh start, combined with returning players that were tested in difficult circumstances, provides the opportunity to turn last year’s struggles into success this fall,” Hill said.

WICHITA COLLEGIATE’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Wichita Collegiate’s Gavin Schmitter Wichita Collegiate senior Gavin Schmitter said this offseason has been about growth, accountability and restoring a standard for a program looking to bounce back.

“While we lost many weapons last year to graduating, we still have many more that are on the uprise,” Schmitter said. “Landon Langston is coming back with a chip on his shoulder and pair that with Mason Bond, Ethan Eyster and Jai Johnson and you’ll see how much of a threat this team will be.”

Schmitter has been a two-way contributor on the offensive and defensive lines, earning 2nd Team All-League honors at both offensive line and defensive end, along with 3A All-State Honorable Mention recognition at offensive line. While he said he does not have complete statistical records from last season, he emphasized that individual accolades are secondary to team success.

The senior said his focus this offseason has been on developing his game and leadership through structured team workouts and extra work outside of practice.

“I’ve been working hard this summer both on my game and in the weight room,” Schmitter said. “We have workouts Monday-Thursday that are mandatory but I am also trying to take that a step further and workout at home on the weekends and I’ve also added doing 100 push-ups and sit-ups daily. I do all of this with the extra push from my parents and it’s helping me hold myself accountable.” Schmitter also credited team camp experiences, including Washburn University’s team camp, as valuable opportunities for development against higher-level competition. “I haven’t been to any camps this year other than the Washburn team camp that our coach recommended we go to and we did as a team,” Schmitter said. “This was a very great opportunity and what a way to get a lot of reps in as a team already. That camp helped me work on my game as a DE and OT against bigger schools that I wouldn’t have gone against otherwise.” On the field, Schmitter said his goals extend beyond personal performance, focusing instead on leadership and team success as Collegiate looks to rebound.

“Some goals of mine are to be a real game changer and a great leader for our team and definitely of the D-line and a great protector for my quarterback,” he said. “I honestly just want to be the best player and teammate I possibly can, because there is no ‘I’ in team. So if my team is successful that is honestly and truly all that matters.” He added that while a state title is always the ultimate goal, the priority is improvement and restoring program expectations.

“Of course I can sit here and say that I want that state title, because that’s what everyone wants and if that happens then I’ll be happy,” Schmitter said. “Honestly I just want to have a better season than our last. Want to restore that Collegiate legacy that we lost last season.”

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VISIT SALINA WINNING EDGE PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Cheney’s Ayden Koehn As the new football season approaches, Ayden Koehn believes Cheney has the pieces in place to make another championship run.

With a veteran group returning, Koehn is eager to get back on the field and compete alongside his teammates as the Cardinals pursue another state title. “I’m really excited to get back on the field with my teammates,” Koehn said. “We have a lot of guys coming back, and we have a chance to do something special this season and get another state title.” Koehn has spent the offseason working to ensure he’s prepared for the challenges ahead. His training has centered on improving his strength, speed and explosiveness while also sharpening the technical aspects of his game.

“I’ve been working on getting stronger, faster and more explosive,” Koehn said. “I’ve also been doing speed and position workouts, watching film, and going to college camps and visits to compete and learn from different coaches. I’ve just been trying to improve in every area so I’m ready when the season starts.”

One area of emphasis has been becoming a more effective pass rusher. Koehn said he has dedicated significant time to improving the details that can make the difference at the line of scrimmage.

“I wanted to improve my pass rush and be more explosive off the line,” he said. “I’ve been working on my first step, hand technique and footwork. I’ve also watched a lot of film to see where I can make better reads and react faster.” While individual development has been important throughout the offseason, Koehn said team success remains the top priority. “As a team, the goal is to be disciplined and constant in order to win another state championship,” he said.

Koehn also hopes to make an impact beyond his play on the field by serving as a leader for his teammates. “Personally, I want to be an impactful leader and keep improving every game,” he said. “I also want to help set the standard for the younger guys and do whatever my team needs from me.”

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W I C H I T A T R AC T O R C O M PA N Y ’ S A T H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Hesston’s Gunner Goalden Hesston senior Gunner Goalden wants the 2026 football season to represent more than another year on the field. It’s the final opportunity to suit up alongside teammates he’s grown with for years.

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“The thing I’m most excited about is going out there with my guys for one last ride,” Goalden said. “Leaving it all on the field for our senior season. Just being able to go play the sport I’ve loved since I was a little kid.”

Goalden enters his final high school season as one of Hesston’s most accomplished linemen after earning AllCentral Kansas League honors and all-state honorable mention recognition a year ago. He finished the 2025 season with 68 tackles, four sacks, 10.5 tackles for loss and six quarterback hurries. He was named first-team All-CKL on the offensive line, second-team All-CKL on the defensive line and received all-state honorable mention at defensive line.

Rather than relying on last season’s success, Goalden spent the offseason focused on becoming a more complete player.

He has trained with Rashad Daniels, whose guidance has helped him continue developing both physically and mentally. “The offseason I’ve been training and working out with Rashad Daniels, who has helped me a lot through my high school career and has been pushing me to my limits so I grow bigger, faster and stronger,” Goalden said. “This offseason I’ve been to many camps as well.” One area of emphasis has been improving his speed, something he believes can elevate every aspect of his game. “An area I want to improve on is speed,” Goalden said. “So I have been working on plyometrics and doing more sprinter workouts to try and get quicker off the ball.”

Goalden has set lofty expectations for his senior campaign, both individually and as a leader for the Swathers. While earning all-state honors remains a personal goal, his biggest focus is helping Hesston compete for the ultimate prize.

“I want to be an All-State player and want to be the most dominant player on that field no matter what,” Goalden said. “I want to be a good leader for the younger guys on the team. I want to bring a state championship back to Hesston.” 66

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R E G E N T PA R K R E H A B I L I TAT I O N & H E A LT H C A R E ’ S AT H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Clearwater’s Emmit Ohdle After earning all-league recognition as a freshman, Clearwater’s Emmit Ohlde isn’t satisfied with what he’s already accomplished. Instead, the standout defensive back is focused on taking another step forward while helping the Indians compete for a winning season. Ohlde said he’s eager to get back on the field with a group that has spent the offseason building chemistry and preparing for the challenges ahead. “I’m most excited about getting back out there with my teammates and seeing how much we’ve improved,” Ohlde said. “We’ve all been putting in the work, and I think we’re ready to show what we can do.” That work has been extensive throughout the

offseason. Ohlde has dedicated time to strength training, speed development and attending camps to sharpen his skills while continuing to develop as a complete player. “I’ve been in the weight room, working on my speed and doing everything I can to become a better football player,” he said. “The camps also helped me learn new techniques and compete against good players.”

One of Ohlde’s primary areas of focus has been improving his overall athleticism, particularly his speed and explosiveness, traits that are critical for a defensive back. “I wanted to become faster and more explosive,” Ohlde said. “That’s something I’ve worked on a lot because it can make a big difference in coverage and when making plays on the ball.” The hard work already has translated into recognition. Ohlde earned honorable mention all-league honors as a sophomore defensive back following the 2025 season, giving him confidence heading into another year. Still, individual accolades aren’t driving his motivation. “My goal is to keep getting better every day and help our team win games,” Ohlde said. “If I do my job and help my teammates, the individual awards will take care of themselves.”

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Andale’s Brody Winter The standard at Andale isn’t simply winning games. It’s finishing the season with a championship trophy.

After helping the Indians win back-to-back state championships, Brody Winter enters his senior season focused on leading a new group of teammates while pursuing another title and a chance to make school history.

“The most exciting thing that I am looking forward to this year is the battle to finish off my high school with a state championship and a 3-peat, all while doing it with a whole new group of teammates,” Winter said.

That pursuit begins long before the first Friday night kickoff. Winter said he has approached the offseason with the same intensity expected during the playoffs.

“Some things I’ve been doing in the offseason to prepare for the season is showing up to our summer weights and treating

it with the same mindset as a playoff game on a Friday in November,” he said.

The offensive lineman has also concentrated on improving an area he viewed as a weakness. Winter said pass protection became a priority after last season, and he credits coach Ryan for helping refine his technique.

“A thing I’ve been working on this offseason is my pass protection,” Winter said. “I felt like that was my weakest point coming in from last year. Coach Ryan helped toward the end of last year by just helping focus on my first step and not get overextended. I’ve just been focusing on that the whole offseason.” Winter already established himself as one of the area’s top linemen in 2025. He recorded 95 pancake blocks and earned first-team all-state honors, first-team all-league recognition, a spot on the Sports in Kansas Non-Senior Team and secondteam Wichita Metro honors. Now he’s chasing another milestone.

“My individual goal for this season is to reach 100 pancake blocks in a season to be the first person in school history to do so,” Winter said. “A team goal for our team is always be holding up the trophy at the end of the year.”

WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Andale’s Jrayton Dansel Jrayton Dansel has embraced a new challenge entering his upcoming season at Andale. After a breakout first year as a linebacker, the veteran defender is eager to become more than just a playmaker — he wants to be one of the Indians’ leaders.

“Ever since this last spring I’ve been excited to step into more of a leadership role,” Dansel said. “It makes me excited because now I want to be a guy my team looks to in the big moment.” That leadership has been built through another productive offseason. Along with Andale’s strength program, Dansel spent the summer attending camps to compete against top talent while showcasing his abilities in front of college coaches.

“I’ve been doing my usual thing getting bigger, faster and stronger with our weights program,” Dansel said. “But I’ve gone to camps all throughout the summer competing and showcasing my skills in front of college coaches. The camps keep me competitive and give me a chance to look for things I need to improve upon.” The offseason wasn’t limited to camps. Dansel also competed on a 7-on-7 team during the winter, an experience that helped him develop an area of 68

his game he believes will be crucial this fall.

“Last year was my first year at linebacker, and though it was very successful, there are things that I’m learning about that will step up my game,” Dansel said. “The biggest thing is covering space. I had limited pass drops last season due to our defensive scheme, but when my time comes to drop back, I want to make sure that I can execute.” Dansel has taken a detailed approach to improving. Film study has become a major focus as he works to eliminate false steps, keep his shoulders square to the line of scrimmage and become a more complete linebacker.

“How I’m working on these is by being hypercritical of myself watching film and doing drills,” he said. The hard work comes after a standout junior campaign. Dansel finished with 81 tackles, one interception, five forced fumbles and one fumble recovery while also contributing offensively with 181 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on just 23 carries.

Despite those numbers, Dansel has set even loftier expectations for himself. “My goals for myself include getting 100 tackles and at least 10 turnovers,” he said. “This may seem like a low bar, but due to lopsided scores varsity guys play three quarters of a game at best.” Individual accolades, however, take a back seat to team success. At Andale, the standard has long been competing for championships, and Dansel said the Indians’ mindset hasn’t changed.

“Team goals are to get the No. 1 seed in the playoffs and win state,” Dansel said. “’State champs’ has always been our breakdown. That’s everyone’s mentality — to find a way to Hutchinson. Because of our past successes, we know what the price is to put ourselves at the top of our bracket. It takes everyone’s commitment, clear down to the water boys.”

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Andale’s Afton Allaire Afton Allaire is determined to make the most of his final season in an Andale uniform.

The senior enters the 2026 campaign motivated by one last opportunity to compete alongside teammates he has grown up with while helping the Indians pursue another state championship. For Allaire, the memories he’ll make this fall are just as important as the wins.

“I’m most excited to play with my buddies one last season and play in the Andale uniform,” Allaire said. Allaire has spent the offseason preparing for what he hopes will be his best year yet. He has committed himself to daily workouts while traveling to college camps to continue developing his skills against top competition.

“I have been working out every day and going to college camps to get workouts in,” he said. One area of emphasis has been improving his speed. Allaire knows becoming more explosive can make him an even bigger threat on the field, so he has incorporated sprint work and plyometric training into his routine. “The biggest thing I need to improve on is my speed,” Allaire said. “I have been doing a lot of sprints and box jumps to work on speed and explosiveness.”

The hard work comes after a productive junior season in which Allaire rushed for 800 yards and two touchdowns while adding 250 receiving yards and another touchdown through the air. He also showcased his physicality in the run game, recording 51 pancake blocks.

Now, Allaire has set ambitious goals for his senior campaign. Individually, he hopes to earn first-team all-league and firstteam all-state honors. More importantly, he wants to help Andale add another championship trophy to its storied football tradition.

“My individual goals are to get selected first-team all-league and first-team all-state,” Allaire said. “Our team goal is to win state.”

WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Andale’s Parker Lies After another offseason of preparation and hard work, Andale linebacker Parker Lies is eager to return to the field and compete under the Friday night lights with his teammates.

For Lies, the excitement comes from more than just playing football. It is about representing a community that continues to support the Indians and being part of a team with high expectations.

“I’m most excited to be able to run out on that field again with my teammates during Friday Night Lights, especially on our home field,” Lies said. “We are ready to show just how much work we have put in over the summer. Our community here at Andale is awesome and so supportive of all of us.” Lies has spent the offseason preparing himself physically and mentally for the upcoming season. He attended football camps, participated in Andale’s summer workouts and continued putting in extra work even during breaks from organized team activities.

“I went to a couple of football camps this summer to improve my fundamentals and get more exposure,” Lies said. “I have also attended our high school football camps and workout training throughout the summer to

keep in shape and push myself to get bigger and stronger.”

Lies also made sure he continued developing his skills outside of scheduled practices. During dead weeks, he worked with teammates on individual drills, including route running and strength training. “All of the extra work has helped me become stronger, faster and more prepared for the upcoming season,” Lies said.

One of Lies’ biggest areas of focus has been improving at linebacker. He attended camps at Kansas State and Missouri Western to sharpen his defensive skills and gain instruction from college coaches.

“I went to K-State and Missouri Western’s football camps during the offseason to work on my fundamentals and I have been watching a lot of film, even from last year,” Lies said. Lies has also taken an active approach to improving by seeking feedback from his coaches.

“My parents recorded drills at the camps that I went to and I would send those to my coaches asking to be critiqued,” Lies said. Last season, Lies made an impact on the defensive side of the ball for Andale. He recorded 45 total tackles, including 24 solo tackles and 21 assisted tackles. He also added two interceptions and a blocked punt while earning All-League honorable mention recognition. Entering the season, Lies has set several individual goals, including earning All-State first-team non-senior honors on offense and defense, along with All-League recognition. He is also hoping his performance on the field leads to opportunities at the next level. However, Lies’ biggest goals remain centered around team success.

“Of course, our team goals are to extend our winning streak and win another State Championship,” Lies said.

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Nickerson senior Rylan Morrell isn’t focused on position skills and conditioning so I can play fast sessulius; no. Sci se movit re Apervitiam tra? Catiam rem individual accolades as he enters his final high and physical all game long.” school football season. Instead, the Panthers’ resimo egeres et fecon scerfectuium egitam is, That st worknimula has centered on becoming a more standout is embracing one last opportunity to explosivevitam athlete, obserfir something Morrell believes can teres? intem nuntem virmihilica ina, si sena, consita compete alongside the teammates he’s grown up elevate every aspect of his game. withesciame while chasingtabemus a memorablehuc postseason run. ium ignones Go nequem essullatim interurnis “One thing I really wanted to improve was my “I’m iu really my senior season because inexcited derrafornit; norbem, dum is speed in and actum noniuhe said. inpre nemquodi, explosiveness,” “I’ve been it’s my last ride with my guys,” Morrell said. “We’ve doing a lot of sprint work, lifting heavy and doing te, conditus tem and termihineque cus con vivivirma, nos fortervivem been grinding togetheres for years, I just want agility drills to help me move better and play to go out there and leave everything on the field. faster. I just want to be moreatium explosivenostilin and make patque andent? Ulturbis aperei senteri facent que I’ve been putting in a lot of work in the weight more plays this year.” room and gettingbonem my body right,caecon so I’m ready todiem verbis crudet; ia plicatque tem conovena, see it all come together and help my team win While Morrell has personal aspirations of posting haberniae tasdam alest prit, ut visulic games.” the best pro season of his careeraut andvehebat earning an uusque opportunity to continue playing football after sedet finare condi praverc publiciam sendiem nox Morrell returns obsentinte after a productive junior campaign high school, his biggest goals revolve around the in which he carried the ball 156 times for 830 iam sentis. Lus tifenit dum imis eremus consulicae terfect ustrae success of the Panthers. yards and seven touchdowns while averaging 5.3 yards per carry. He also made an impact on “Individually, I just want to have myina, best season adempost Catiqua sedet, ellare omne atamque ere tabem the defensive side of the ball with 38 tackles and yet and keep getting better every week,” Morrell pre egilicaequam partemus? virmihiliemo vestrum four tackles for loss, showcasing the versatility that said. “I’m also hoping to get noticed and have a perorit, Nickerson will once again rely on this fall. chance to at the next int level. quemus As a team, we abutem neplay estam Licasti, que mentum publis. want to compete for a deep playoff run. Most Determined to take another step as a senior, prestercere notam importantly, we just want to play hard for eachpopubli Morrell has attacked the offseason with a purpose. other every game.” Habi sertem senatius haelumus? ceperfesim dii temorum publium “This offseason I’ve just been locked in,” he said. To go along with being a standout football player, “I’vequitatrum been in the weight room getting stronger, nessolum mus interec factam omne publinteri fortabem Morrell also is an avid outdoorsmen. When he’s doing speed and agility work, and going to team not carrying eothe tusballinfor the Wildcats, Morrell can telingu liamdium Patum workouts every day. I’ve also been workingpoteriste on my be found in a field hunting or on a boat fishing.

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TRIPLE A STRUCTURES’ ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Cheney’s Landon Meng Cheney High School senior Landon Meng brings focus, leadership, and a team-first mentality to the football field, where his competitive edge and accountability define his game. “My Dad inspires me the most because he’s always pushed me to leave it all on the field every game since my first one in 3rd grade during peewee and always wants me to strive to be the best person I can be,” Meng said. That standard of effort drives his preparation, film study, and willingness to embrace pressure in every snap. On the football field, Meng plays cornerback and wide receiver and thrives in the one-on-one battles that define both sides of the ball. “I play Cornerback and Wide Receiver and I believe that Corner is the hardest position in football because it is 1 onplays 1 and if you up everyone Chapman senior Aven Woods everywhere formess the Fighting Irish. He sees it and oneand little slip up can change the can play catcher, first base outfield. “Avencourse Woods hasof worked to become ballplayer than the harder whole game,”a great he said. anyone I’ve coached. He is always working to be a better player and Some of his vivid come from person. In his first threemost HS seasons, he memories played every infield position, including pitcher and catcher. This year is playing the outfield, high-stakes games. He he recalls “when we particularly centerfield, which evidences his extraordinary versatility,” played in a giant snowstorm for the State head coach Judd Liebau said. Championship” and “Watching Jack score Last season, Woods earned first team all-league, first teamVoth all-state theteam game-winning touchdown against Andale and first all-class utility. Now for senior year, Woods has experiences the same goals butreinforced hopes all his his inhis overtime.” Those offseason workin willpreparation, show in his game. resilience, and executing belief “I want to improve my consistency throughout the end of games. In the under pressure. past I’ve felt that I’d either decline or ramp up as games went on,” Woods said. “I’ve worked on finding consistency physically. “During pregame I listenboth tomentally musicand but most During my training, I’d try different feels and movements to look for importantly I visualize my assignments and what I need to feel then working mentally to consistently keep it think of situations scenarios that could through different and environments. ” happen mid game As a senior leaderof for a Chapman, is excited to seeMeng younger said. thenand think way toWoods react to that,”

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guys step up and develop into well rounded players, and he hopes he can show them the way.

Football, he added, has taught him that “working hard and doing things that others will not do puts you in a better position and makes you a leader.” Off the field, Meng’s favorite subject is shop, where he enjoys building and the relationships that come with it. “My favorite subject is shop because we get to build things. You have better relationships with shop teachers than normal teachers. My favorite teacher is Mr. Kershen because he lets us have fun in class,” he said. He spends his free time hunting, fishing, and “spending time with family and friends,” and is involved in FFA, FCA, and community service. Meng also values the influence of teammate and friend Nolan Durr, who pushes him in the weight room and in chasing college football dreams, and the bond with teammates he describes as “a big family” that grows closer every day.

“As a varsity starter every year of my high school career, I feel that my role is to be a physical role model to new starters and incoming players by showing them what it looks like to successfully play the game,” Woods said.

Next year, Woods will be attending Johnson County Community College to continue his academic and athletic career, but this season he wants to play more lighthearted. “I’ve seen seniors in the past lose sight of the simple fact that this is still just a game. I think taking that sense of pressure to perform off myself will also help me play better,” Woods said.

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2026 2A TEAMS TO WATCH

2A GA MES T O WAT CH Week 1 Garden Plain at Cheney

Week 6 Marion at Garden Plain

Week 2 Pratt at Haven

Week 3 Garden Plain at Wichita Trinity Hillsboro at Haven Week 5 Haven at Marion

Week 7 Garden Plain at Haven

Week 8 Hoisington at Garden Plain

2A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH

Boston Beck, LB, Kingman

Logan Birkenbaugh, DB, Kingman Braylen Dold, DB, Garden Plain Carter Green, RB, Douglass

BELOIT TROJANS

Last Season: 6-4

Beloit enters 2026 with high expectations after a 6-4 season and a playoff win over Lakin before falling to Garden Plain in the regional round. Head coach Brad Gober, now in his 10th year at Beloit, returns a deeply experienced team with eight offensive starters and seven defensive starters back. Sophomore quarterback Truitt King gives the Trojans a major building block after throwing for 1,820 yards and 14 touchdowns while earning honorable mention all-state recognition. He has proven targets in first-team all-league receiver Jacob Hand, senior Joel Fuller and senior Kanean Olson, while Paxton Fouts adds balance after rushing for 263 yards and four touchdowns and catching seven passes for 194 yards and two scores.

The line should be a major strength with Griffin Johnson and Kross Kemmerer leading the way in the trenches, joined by Kale Wessling and several physical newcomers. Defensively, Kemmerer posted 52 tackles, four tackles for loss and two sacks, while Fuller had 44 tackles and two interceptions and Colton Adolph added 49 tackles.

“We are very excited about the 2026 Football season as we have a lot of experience back from last fall,” Gober said, adding that the Trojans expect to take a big step forward but must keep working every day to improve. With a young quarterback already producing at a high level and veteran help around him, Beloit looks like a serious threat in 2A.

CHAPARRAL ROADRUNNERS Last Season: 5-4 72

Cody Holzrichter, OL, Haven

Brock Randolph, OL, Garden Plain Brennan Van Whye, OL, Kingman Chaparral heads into 2026 with momentum after a five-win turnaround season and returns enough experience to believe another jump is possible. Veteran coach Justin Burke begins his 30th year in coaching and 22nd as a head coach, and he inherits a Roadrunners team that brings back 11 starters and 11 lettermen. Senior quarterback Daniel Schmidt is the centerpiece as a three-year starter with speed, athleticism and the ability to impact the game at free safety. He is joined by senior Kenny Diaz, a tough runner and standout kicker, plus a big offensive front anchored by Brody Flores, Nick Brittain, Brandon Jones and other returning linemen. Chaparral also has returning weapons in junior receiver/ cornerback Trace Hadsall, junior H-back/linebacker

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Mason Walker and junior tight end/defensive end Ian Whisman. Burke points to good size in the trenches and an excellent kicking game as strengths, while depth at the skill positions, new schemes and replacing pieces in the linebacker and defensive backfield remain concerns.

“Coach Burke returns to Chaparral and will try to get the Roadrunners back to the top of the CPL and being a contender in Class 2A,” the outlook states, noting a strong summer turnout with 37 players at camp and an average of more than 35 high school players per day in the weight room. If the offensive line comes together and the defense settles in around new faces, the Roadrunners have the pieces to be a factor in the Central Plains League again.

DOUGLASS

2026 2A TEAMS TO WATCH BULLDOGS Last Season: 3-6

Douglass heads into 2026 believing experience can translate into real progress after a 3-6 season and a playin loss to Garden Plain. Head coach Drew Carder begins his sixth year at DHS and third overall as a head coach, with the Bulldogs returning eight offensive starters and seven defensive starters.

Senior quarterback Kane Ast leads the way after throwing for 1,040 yards and 11 touchdowns last season while earning honorable mention all-league and all-district recognition at quarterback and defensive back. He will once again have senior tight end/linebacker Bronsyn Knisley, who caught 27 passes for 645 yards and eight touchdowns, and senior wide receiver/defensive back Wyatt Moore, who added nine catches for 92 yards.

Josh Homolka said the Bearcats have had a strong summer in the weight room, and he believes the returning players who have taken meaningful snaps over the last two seasons give this team a solid foundation.

Junior quarterback Carson Jacobs headlines the offense after rushing for 727 yards as a sophomore and earning MVP nominee honors from the program. “Carson is a great leader. Had a really good season as a Sophomore at QB. He brings leadership both vocally and by example,” Homolka said, adding that Jacobs reminds him of past standout leader Will Cravens.

Plain navigate another difficult schedule.

Junior Braylen Dold is the focal point after rushing for 641 yards and five touchdowns while also catching three passes for two more scores. Dold was also a playmaker on defense with 39 tackles, two interceptions and a touchdown, and the program nominated him as an MVP candidate entering his third year in the program.

The Owls’ flexbone attack returns multiple key pieces, including Trevor Catlin, Brock Randolph, Easton Pauly, Hunter Kampling and Carter Tasset. Rice said Garden Plain wants to establish a physical running game after averaging 280 rushing yards per game last season, and the triple option allows multiple players to touch the ball while demanding a team-first mentality.

rushing and two receiving, while also earning all-league recognition.

Halstead’s flexbone offense returns a solid front with Cruise Davison, Hudson Harrington, Noah Brantley, Cooper Hobbs and Greyson Swift all back. Racette said the Dragons’ ability to move players around and get athletes in space will be vital to offensive success. Defensively, Halstead will operate out of a 4-2-5 and try to use multiple fronts and team speed to dictate the game. Carmichael returns after posting 83 tackles and eight tackles for loss, Zorn and Wyatt Hobbs each had two interceptions, and Jacob Bennett forced a fumble, giving the Dragons a core of experienced defenders to build around.

The Bulldogs also hope to get a full season from senior Carter Green, who rushed for 712 yards and 14 touchdowns in just 5.5 games before suffering a torn ACL and still made first team all-league and all-district at running back/linebacker. Up front, Logan Spradling, Tanner Allan, Trevor Allan and Cale Bahm give Douglass four returning linemen with starting experience. “The goals and expectations for this team are high heading into the 2026 season,” Carder said. “We will rely on a battletested senior group with plenty of varsity experience to help lead us throughout the year. We are also excited about the development of our incoming juniors and sophomores as they step into larger roles and gain valuable Friday night experience this season.”

ELLSWORTH BEARCATS

Last Season: 5-4

Ellsworth enters 2026 with experience, leadership and a large junior class expected to carry the load after a 5-4 finish last fall. Ninth-year head coach

Ellsworth returns six offensive starters and will operate from a spread two-back, power spread system. Jacobs is joined by junior Bo Kyler at tight end/ fullback, senior lineman Drew Davis, junior Ret Bohl and receivers Liam Stone and Jace Thomasson, giving the Bearcats a balanced mix of skill players and experience up front. Defensively, Ellsworth also brings back six starters and will stay with an attacking 4-4 scheme built on pursuit, physical play and gap responsibility. Bohl returns after 21 tackles, Kyler had 16, Jacobs added 13 tackles and two interceptions, and Thomasson picked off two passes, while Homolka also singled out sophomore Gage Laas as an underclassman to watch after a strong JV season and key special teams contributions.

GARDEN PLAIN OWLS Last Season: 9-2

Garden Plain enters 2026 off a 9-2 season and another deep playoff run, and head coach Todd Rice believes the Owls’ returning experience gives them a chance to do it again. Rice said last year’s team was very young, and while this group may be even younger, the amount of returning starters should help Garden

Defensively, Garden Plain returns seven starters in a 4-2-5 that emphasizes stopping the run and avoiding big plays. Randolph had 45 tackles and four tackles for loss, Kampling had 47 tackles and two interceptions, Pauly made 52 tackles, and Wyatt Stulhsaltz added 46 more, giving the Owls a strong core for another push in 2A.

HALSTEAD DRAGONS

Last Season: 2-7

Halstead heads into 2026 believing the experience gained during a difficult 2-7 season can pay off this fall. Fourth-year head coach Derek Racette said the minutes younger players were forced to take last year should help a Dragons team that now features a strong senior class backed by talented underclassmen.

Junior quarterback Damien Whillock leads the offense after throwing for 1,147 yards and seven touchdowns, while senior fullback Reece Carmichael rushed for 504 yards and four scores. Junior running back Edric Zorn is another centerpiece after totaling nine touchdowns, including seven

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HAVEN WILDCATS

Last Season: 7-3

Haven comes into 2026 with plenty of proven firepower after a 7-3 season, and the Wildcats return six offensive starters and five on defense. Co-head coaches Thomas Cooprider and Drew Thalmann have veteran production back at the skill spots, led by senior quarterback Brogan Wray and junior running back Cole Brawner. Wray stepped into the starting quarterback role last year and produced 1,444 passing yards and 11 touchdowns while adding 431 rushing yards and five more scores. “Brogan stepped into the starting QB role last year as a junior and executed the offense well. He’s very coachable, understanding the offense and serves as a coach on the field for us,” the coaches said.

Brawner gives Haven a true workhorse after rushing 232 times for 1,586 yards and 23 touchdowns, while senior receivers Kolton Altvater and Zade Turner combine for experience and production on the perimeter. The Wildcats describe themselves as a spread rushing team that is working to

2026 2A TEAMS TO WATCH throw the ball more effectively, and with Cody Holzrichter back up front, the offense has a strong core in place.

Defensively, Jon Williams returns after posting 65 tackles, three sacks, four tackles for loss and an interception, while Wray added 59 tackles and four interceptions from the secondary. Turner and Holzrichter give Haven more experience on the second and third levels, and with this much proven production back, the Wildcats have the pieces to stay in the Central Plains League mix.

KINGMAN EAGLES

a 3-3 stack and bring back first-team linebacker Boston Beck, first-team free safety Birkenbaugh and productive linebackers Campbell and Clark. Hageman said Kingman must take a giant step forward in competitive spirit, practice habits and fundamentals, and if that happens, the returning talent gives the Eagles a chance to make real progress in 2026.

MARION WARRIORS

Last Season: 7-3

Marion enters 2026 after a 7-3 season with first-year head coach Jackson Schneider, and the Warriors believe their mix of returning upperclassmen and younger contributors gives them a solid base. Schneider noted that Marion has moved up to 2A and will be one of the smallest schools in the classification, so the program plans to lean into its athleticism and play hard, fast and physical every week.

Trinity plus district matchups with Haven, Garden Plain, Halstead and Douglass, Marion should get tested quickly in its jump to 2A.

MINNEAPOLIS LIONS Last Season: 3-6

Minneapolis enters 2026 looking to build off last year’s experience after a 3-6 finish in the NCAA and a playoff appearance in 2025. First-year head coach Garrett Galanski takes over after previously serving two years as head coach at the school and enters the season believing a young, hungry roster has something to prove.

SOUTHEAST OF SALINE TROJANS Last Season: 12-1

Southeast of Saline enters 2026 coming off a 12-1 season and a run to the Class 2A state final, where the Trojans fell to Nemaha Central. Even with only two starters back on offense and two on defense, expectations remain high as Chance Ptacek takes over as head coach after serving 22 years as an assistant.

Senior quarterback/defensive back Tiernan Ptacek headlines the returning core after throwing for 1,174 yards and 13 touchdowns while rushing for 338 yards and seven more scores. He also made a major impact defensively with 38 tackles and three interceptions, earning first-team NCAA honors at defensive back and second-team all-state recognition.

Last Season: 2-7

Kingman heads into 2026 looking for a jump after taking its lumps with a young lineup during a 2-7 season in 2025. Head coach Tanner Hageman, now in his seventh year at the school, said the Eagles return nearly all of their key skill players but must rebuild much of the offensive line.

Junior quarterback Logan Birkenbaugh is the centerpiece after passing for 1,255 yards and 12 touchdowns while rushing for 404 yards and eight scores, earning honorable mention recognition at quarterback. He will again have proven targets in senior Trent Clark, who led the team with 21 catches for 384 yards and six touchdowns, plus Jaxson Campbell and Chris Hepburn, who combined for 35 catches, 484 yards and five scores.

Boston Beck adds versatility after contributing as a runner, receiver and return man, while Brennan Van Wyhe gives the line an all-league anchor up front. Kingman’s spread offense should have enough skill talent to stress defenses if the line develops quickly around returning and emerging players. Defensively, the Eagles run

The offense returns seven starters and will use multiple formations and motions to get its athletes the ball in space quickly. Jackson Howard, Hitch Soyez, Isaac Wesner, Ryder Kraus and sophomore quarterback Jymer Raymer headline the key group, while Landon Hendricks gives the Warriors another young offensive piece.

Defensively, Marion returns six starters and plans to build around an aggressive unit that flies to the football and plays through the whistle. Soyez, Jordy Raymer, Tripp Peterson, Wesner, Howard and Kraus form the core of that defense, with Howard also serving as the MVP nominee after earning a football offer from Butler CC.

Jymer Raymer is the underclassman to watch because, as a sophomore, he is stepping into a new offense and taking over at quarterback. With league games against Remington, Inman and Hutch

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Bryson Lonberger is one of the top returning pieces after rushing for 550 yards and four touchdowns, earning secondteam all-league honors. He is joined by senior wide receiver and defensive end Brayden Johnson, who posted 285 yards and four touchdowns last season and gives the Lions a proven two-way playmaker.

The returning core also includes Kingston Deromnet, Josh White, Logan Briggs, Jasper Johns and Bladen Johnson, giving Minneapolis seven offensive returning starters and six on defense. Jasper Johns and Deromnet should help anchor the defense at linebacker, while Lonberger and Johnson bring experience on both sides of the ball. Galanski’s notes on the upcoming season are brief but clear: “Young, hungry, out to prove doubters wrong, build upon last year.” With road games at Ellsworth, Beloit, Riley County and Southeast of Saline and home dates against Republic County, Council Grove, Norton and Marysville, Minneapolis will have plenty of chances to show how far it has come.

Junior lineman Tristan Swank gives the Trojans a proven force in the trenches after posting 75 tackles, 12 tackles for loss and two sacks while earning second-team NCAA honors and honorable mention all-state recognition. Southeast of Saline also has a solid group of key contributors and newcomers to help reload, including seniors Lyrik Lilley and Josh Watkins, juniors Elijah Kejr, Kain Sawyers and Ryan Weller, plus sophomore Burton Brooks at quarterback/defensive back. “The Southeast of Saline Trojans lost a very talented and experienced group to graduation along with the winningest coach in Southeast of Saline history but our expectations remain the same for 2026,” the team outlook states. The Trojans plan to lean on new leadership, established program standards and daily improvement as they try to stay among the state’s top 2A programs.

GOOD LUCK KINGMAN

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Student Student of theMonth Month Studentof ofthe Month Douglass’ Carter Green After watching his team grow together over the past two seasons, Douglass senior Carter Green believes the hard work is beginning to pay off.

“I’m most excited about how the team has bonded over the last couple seasons and how much work we’ve put in to have a winning season,” Green said. Green has spent the offseason preparing for his senior year by attending morning weightlifting sessions and football practices while also working his way back to wrestling after missing last season with a torn ACL.

“I have been attending morning weights and practice for football,” Green said. “I’ve been focusing more, over the last couple of months, to get back into wrestling after an ACL year last year.”

On the football field, Green is focused on becoming a more instinctive defender. He said improving his ability to diagnose opposing offenses has been a priority throughout the offseason.

“I am looking to improve my ability to read the offense and where the ball will be going,” Green said. “During practice, I make sure I am able to flow into a gap, and if I can’t, I make sure to ask questions.”

Green has set lofty individual and team goals for his final high school season. Individually, he hopes to rush for 1,500 yards while continuing to lead by example.

“My goals for myself are to rush for 1,500 yards, be a great leader for everyone, and leave the underclassmen on a good note,” Green said. “As for the team, we will have a winning record and win at least one game in the playoffs.”

Green enters the season coming off an impressive junior campaign. He earned a unanimous firstteam all-league selection at both running back and linebacker after rushing 105 times for 712 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also added 99 receiving yards and two touchdown receptions.

Drew Chrisman, PT, DPT Favorite sport: Track and Field Favorite activity/exercise to get in easy movement: Commuting to work on my bike has been a great way to get the blood flowing, get some easy cardio, and provide an opportunity to mentally transfer from home to work and vice versa. Sports (if any) you played in high school: MidDistance Track, Cross Country What you treat/specialize in: I treat general orthopedics, but I love working with high school athletes struggling with knee pain. I had the same struggle and never visited a PT, so athletes succeeding here means a lot to me. Best tip for high school athletes: Strive for great posture and always stretch your calves.

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HUTCHINSON CLINIC’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Haven’s Cody Holzrichter After earning first-team all-state honors and helping anchor Haven’s offensive line as a junior, Cody Holzrichter believes he still has more to prove.

The senior offensive lineman is entering his final high school season with renewed motivation after attracting less recruiting attention than he expected following a standout junior campaign. “I’m most excited to get back on the field one more time and prove myself again,” Holzrichter said. “I felt like I had a really good junior season, and I was hoping it would lead to more opportunities and more schools taking a look at me. That hasn’t happened as much as I expected, but it just gives me more motivation.” Rather than becoming discouraged, Holzrichter has used the experience as fuel heading into his senior year.

“I know a lot of coaches haven’t taken a chance on me yet, so every game this season is another opportunity to show what I can do and prove that I belong at the next level,” he said.

Holzrichter’s junior numbers back up his confidence. He finished the season with 164 knockdown blocks while allowing zero sacks. His performance earned him first-team District 6 honors, first-team Central Kansas League recognition on the offensive line, second-team CKL honors on the defensive line, first-team KSHSAA all-state, first-team Wichita Eagle Class 2A all-state, first-team Wichita Area Small Class all-state and first-team SIK All-State NonSenior recognition. His offseason has reflected his determination to improve even further.

Holzrichter trains four nights each week at Next Level Performance in Wichita while continuing to refine his offensive line technique.

“We focus on speed, agility and football-specific training year-round, with most of our weightlifting during the winter and combine training in the spring to prepare for summer camps,” Holzrichter said. Since his freshman season, he has traveled across the country to compete in football camps, believing the exposure and competition have accelerated his

development.

“Competing against some of the best recruits in the Midwest has pushed me to improve, helped me see where I need to grow and made me a better player,” he said. Although he considers pass protection and run blocking among his strengths, Holzrichter has identified one area he wants to sharpen before the season begins.

“One area I really want to improve this season is my second-level blocking,” he said. “I feel like I’m strong in pass protection and moving defenders off the ball on inside runs, but I want to take the next step by becoming more consistent at getting to the second level and creating disruption.” To make that happen, Holzrichter has spent countless hours reviewing game film and repeating footwork drills. “I’ve spent a lot of time working on my footwork by doing rep after rep, making sure I’m taking the right angles and getting there under control,” he said. “I’ve also gone back and watched my junior film to see what I could do better, then focused on fixing those mistakes.”

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Haven’s Sadler DeFrain Haven’s Sadler DeFrain is embracing every part of the journey of the upcoming football season — even the parts most players might dread.

“There are a number of things I’m excited for,” DeFrain said. “Even when it comes to the things that most people dread, I look forward to it all.” For DeFrain, football is about more than just Friday night games. The offseason conditioning, weightlifting sessions and summer practices are opportunities to improve while spending time with teammates. “I look forward to conditioning and practice because I get to spend time with my team,” he said. “There are plenty of good laughs that happen during conditioning.” Still, nothing compares to game night.

“There is no better feeling than stepping onto the field under the Friday night lights, with loads of adrenaline pumping through my veins,” DeFrain said. “I like a good rough, full-contact sport, so I look forward to being able to put on the football gear too.”

Preparation has been a major focus throughout the offseason. DeFrain has spent his summer participating in Haven’s strength and conditioning program while also continuing workouts at his family’s home gym.

“One of my biggest priorities in life is exercise,” he said. “Not only do I work out for football, but I also enjoy it greatly.” The summer program emphasizes strength, agility and speed while also providing opportunities to work on football-specific skills. In addition to weightlifting, the Wildcats spend time reviewing plays, refining techniques and attending a weeklong football camp. Despite his dedication, DeFrain knows there is room for

improvement.

One of the biggest lessons he learned from last season was the need to trust his instincts on the field.

“One thing that really dragged my skills down was how robotic I played,” DeFrain said. “I was too methodical and was always trying to calculate the action out, and this slowed me down.” Coaches have encouraged him to play with greater confidence and react naturally instead of overthinking situations. Improving his tackling has also been a priority. “I didn’t have the best tackling form, and I never could keep a good grip on my opponent,” he said.

The work he has put in during the offseason has helped address those concerns. Increased strength in the weight room has boosted his confidence, while summer tackling drills have helped sharpen his defensive technique.

As the season approaches, DeFrain’s goals are centered on helping his team rather than chasing individual accomplishments. “I just want to be someone that my team trusts to make a tackle,” he said. “I want to be able to be a playmaker on defense.”

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KINGMAN PIZZA HUT’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Kingman’s Brennan Van Wyhe “We play teams we have never seen before. I’m also very excited to get to work with the new linemen on both sides of the ball and help them get better. We also installed a new defensive system and I’m really excited to see how that will work.”

As one of the team’s veteran leaders, Van Wyhe has spent the offseason setting the standard through his work ethic. While he skipped the individual camp circuit in favor of team activities, he made sure his time was spent where he felt it would make the biggest impact.

Brennan Van Wyhe is eager to see what awaits Kingman this fall.

With new opponents on the schedule, a revamped defensive scheme and a group of young linemen developing on both sides of the ball, Van Wyhe believes the Eagles have plenty to look forward to heading into the season. “I’m very excited to compete against the new teams in our schedule,” Van Wyhe said.

“Our whole team has been dedicated in the weight room this summer,” Van Wyhe said. “Our coaches have put a high expectation on us this year and we have met that expectation. I have not gone to any camps besides our team camps, but I’m in the weight room all the time.” That commitment has centered on becoming a more complete player, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Van Wyhe has emphasized improving his explosiveness and refining his pass-rushing technique to become a bigger playmaker. “I would like to improve on my defensive abilities,” he said. “I have been in the weight room working on explosiveness and pass rushing.”

The hard work reflects the lofty goals Van Wyhe has established for his senior season. Individually, he hopes his performance earns recognition among the state’s top players, while team success remains just as important. “My personal goals this year are to be firstteam all-league on both sides of the ball,” Van Wyhe said. “I also want to be first-team AllState in 2A for offensive line.”

Beyond individual accolades, Van Wyhe believes the Eagles can take meaningful steps as a program if they continue to improve throughout the season. “The goals I have for my team are to have a winning season and win a few playoff games, as well as get better each week,” he said.

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KINGMAN HEALTHCARE CENTER’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Kingman’s Boston Beck After a productive offseason filled with preparation, leadership development and a commitment to improving the details of his game, Kingman senior Boston Beck believes the Eagles are ready to surprise people this season. Beck, a versatile contributor at running back and safety, said the biggest thing he is looking forward to is seeing the work put in by the entire program translate into success on the field. “What I’m most excited about is seeing all of our hard work pay off,” Beck said. “Freshman through seniors, every guy has put in their best in this offseason and is ready to play.”

Kingman enters the season with confidence and a renewed sense of purpose. Beck said the Eagles are motivated by the opportunity to improve on areas that held them back a year ago and turn those weaknesses into strengths.

“I’m ready to see what we struggled on last year be one of our strong suits,” Beck said. “Our coaching staff and players want nothing more than to go far this year, and we have the right men in the right positions to do exactly that.” Beck said the Eagles are embracing an underdog mentality heading into the season, using outside expectations as motivation. “I’m excited to surprise people,” Beck said. “Nobody is expecting us to do anything special and that’s why it’s so special.”

Beck spent countless hours studying film and improving his vision to become a more patient and decisive runner. “My film time has never been too high,” Beck said. “Watching the same play over and over until I see how I can get better at every small detail.”

Along with improving physically, Beck has also focused on building stronger relationships with his teammates and becoming a better leader. “Leadership wise I’ve spent time away from football-related things and have learned more about my teammates and have built more of a brotherhood than just a team,” Beck said. Beck enters the season coming off a strong junior campaign in which he recorded 74 tackles, including 49 solo tackles, three sacks, seven tackles for loss and two interceptions.

Kingman will also face a new challenge with a revamped schedule, giving the Eagles an opportunity to test themselves against unfamiliar opponents.

This season, Beck has set ambitious individual goals, including becoming Kingman’s first 1,000-yard rusher in a decade, earning first-team all-state honors at running back and safety, and contributing in the return game with more than 500 kickoff return yards.

During the offseason, Beck focused on becoming a more complete player. He spent time studying film, improving his technique and developing his leadership skills while attending football showcases and camps.

“I would like us to go undefeated in the regular season, which I think is very doable, win league, win districts, and make it past the second round of playoffs, which we haven’t been able to do in three years,” Beck said.

“I’m looking forward to our new schedule,” Beck said. “We’re playing new teams that we have never encountered before and it will be a great new look.” “I’ve been watching more film, working on technique, and learning how to be a better leader,” Beck said. “I’ve went to multiple football showcases and camps in the offseason and have seen where I stand against competition.”

However, Beck said the biggest goals are team accomplishments. He believes the Eagles have the talent and commitment to compete for championships.

One of Beck’s biggest areas of focus was improving his inside running ability. While he found success using his speed and ability to bounce runs outside, he wanted to become more effective between the tackles. “My outside run game was my advantage point on teams,” Beck said. “I could build speed and cut upfield then break free. When it came to my inside run I was stuck. I didn’t know what I was looking for blocking wise and didn’t know when to hit the gap.” 78

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C E N T R A L P OW E R S Y S T E M S & S E R V I C E S ’ AT H L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Kingman’s Trent Clark Trent Clark has spent the past year making sure he would be ready when football season returned. Whether it was competing on the basketball court, excelling on the track or attending prospect camps, the Kingman standout has approached the offseason with one goal in mind — becoming a more complete player.

Now, after a productive summer, Clark is eager to see how that work translates on Friday nights. “I am most excited about seeing new competition by playing different schools than in previous seasons and seeing our offseason work pay off,” Clark said.

Kingman will enter the season with fresh challenges on its schedule, and Clark believes the added competition will provide an opportunity for the Eagles to measure themselves against new opponents.

Clark stayed busy long after the football season ended. He transitioned into basketball before turning his attention to track and field, where he qualified for the KSHSAA Class 3A state meet in the 100-meter hurdles and earned a third-place finish in the 300 hurdles. He also sharpened his football skills by attending two prospect camps with Sharp Performance and another at Hutchinson Community College while continuing Kingman’s summer strength and conditioning program. “After football season I played basketball and ran track,” Clark said. “I qualified for the KSHSAA 3A 100-meter hurdles and placed third in the 300 hurdles. I also attended two prospect camps with Sharp Performance and one with Hutch CC, and I’m currently doing our summer weights program plus team football camps.” The three-sport athlete believes his success in track has translated directly to the football field, helping him become more explosive while continuing to build strength in the weight room.

“I want to continue getting stronger and faster,” Clark said. “Stronger for my role on defense and faster for my role on offense. I’ve been working on these goals by remaining active in the offseason with being a three-sport athlete, improving my track stats and doing our summer weights and conditioning program.”

Clark is coming off an impressive junior campaign in which he earned secondteam Central Prairie League honors at receiver. He hauled in 21 receptions for 384 yards and six touchdowns while averaging 42.7 receiving yards per game. He also proved to be a dangerous return specialist with 819 kickoff return yards on 25 returns and added 105 punt return yards on seven attempts. Defensively, Clark contributed 24 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and a pass breakup, showcasing his versatility on both sides of the ball.

This season, Clark hopes to expand his role even further. Along with increasing his production as a receiver, he wants to become a bigger weapon in the kicking game. “I want to increase my field goal range by five to 10 yards and increase my average receiving yards with speed and route running,” Clark said. While Clark has set ambitious individual goals, his focus remains on helping Kingman return to postseason success.

“I want to see our team qualify for the playoffs and compete for a state championship for the first time in a few years,” Clark said. “I want our team to improve week after week and leave it all on the field.”

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Haven’s Brogan Wray As he prepares for his final season in a Haven uniform, Brogan Wray is focused on more than individual accomplishments. The senior quarterback has his sights set on leading the Wildcats toward a district championship and a deep postseason run while making the most of one final season alongside teammates he has grown up playing with. “I’m most excited about leading my team in my senior season and competing with the group of guys I’ve been playing with for years,” Wray said. “We have high expectations this year, and I’m looking forward to the challenge of helping our team compete for a district championship, making a deep playoff run and representing Haven one last time.” Wray enters the season coming off a standout junior campaign that earned him several postseason honors. He was named honorable mention all-state quarterback, first-team all-district quarterback, firstteam all-district defensive back, honorable mention all-league quarterback and honorable mention all-league returner. He finished the season with 1,397 passing yards and 10 touchdown passes while completing 60 percent of his attempts. Wray also made an impact on the ground, rushing for 510 yards and eight touchdowns. Despite the accolades, Wray said his offseason focus has been on improving both physically and mentally. “I’ve spent time in the weight room getting stronger and faster, and have been throwing with my receivers regularly to build chemistry and make sure we’re ready when the season starts,” he said. 80

Wray also identified consistency and decision-making as areas he wanted to improve heading into his senior year. “One area I wanted to improve was my consistency and decision-making under pressure,” Wray said. “During the offseason, I worked on reading defenses and studying film.” As the leader of Haven’s offense, Wray hopes the extra preparation will help elevate both his individual performance and the team’s overall success. “My individual goals are to become a better leader, improve my completion percentage and help our offense be as efficient as possible,” he said. “My team goals are to win our district and make a deep playoff run. More than anything, I want to do whatever it takes to help our team succeed.”

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D-BAT WEST WICHITA’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Garden Plain’s Braylen Dold After earning all-state honors and helping Garden Plain reach the third round of the playoffs for the second consecutive season, Braylen Dold is focused on what comes next. The Owls enter the 2026 season with several new faces stepping into key roles, creating both challenges and opportunities for a program that has become accustomed to postseason success.

“I am most excited for playing with the new team we have this season,” Dold said. “Last season we lost multiple key players and we have lots of new guys filling in those positions, and I am excited to see what kind of team we will be.” Dold will be one of the team’s most experienced playmakers after a standout junior season on offense, defense and special teams. He accumulated 1,174 allpurpose yards while scoring nine touchdowns and earning recognition as one of the state’s top defensive backs.

Offensively, Dold rushed for 661 yards and five touchdowns on 74 carries, averaging 8.9 yards per carry. He also caught three passes for 77 yards and two touchdowns. His impact extended to special teams, where he returned nine kickoffs for 226 yards and a touchdown and added 210 punt return yards with another score. On defense, Dold recorded 52 total tackles, four interceptions and one fumble recovery.

His performance earned an impressive list of accolades, including first-team all-state defensive back honors, first-team all-league defensive back and flex selections, League Special Teams MVP, first-team All-VYPE defensive back, third-team all-metro defensive back, and firstteam all-district honors at both defensive back and flex positions. Despite the success, Dold believes there is still room for

improvement.

“The biggest area I want to improve on is my open-field tackling,” Dold said. “Last season I felt like my openfield tackling was holding me back at times, but this season I am hoping to change that by working on tackling drills at practice.”

The offseason work has helped Dold prepare for lofty individual goals entering the fall. He hopes to eclipse 1,700 all-purpose yards while increasing his impact defensively. “My own personal goals are to have over 1,700 allpurpose yards this season and to have at least five interceptions,” Dold said.

While individual milestones are important, Dold’s primary focus remains on helping Garden Plain take the next step in the postseason.

The Owls have seen their seasons end in the third round of the playoffs in each of the last two years, a trend Dold and his teammates are determined to reverse.

“A goal I have for our team is to make it past the third round of playoffs this year,” Dold said. “The last two years we have lost in the third round and we are looking to make a deeper playoff run.”

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Garden Plain’s Jared Flax Garden Plain’s Jared Flax considers himself lucky to be able to play in front of one of the most loyal fan bases in the area. For Flax, few things compare to the atmosphere of a Friday night home game in Garden Plain.

“This season, I am most excited to get Friday night wins in front of our home crowd,” Flax said. “The Garden Plain crowd that shows up every Friday night could not be more supportive of this team and what we plan to do this season.” That support has helped fuel a productive offseason for the Owls. Flax said the team has spent the summer preparing for the challenges ahead through a demanding workout schedule designed to improve every aspect of their game.

“The team and I have been putting in extreme amounts of work this summer to get us ready for this upcoming season,” Flax said. “We have all shown up to morning lifts and morning football workouts to help build strength, speed and stamina that will help us get to the next level.” While physical preparation has been a major focus, Flax believes success this fall will come down to execution and discipline. He said attention to detail will be critical in Garden Plain’s offensive system. “The GP offense is built on tough, hard-nosed men who fight for

every yard they achieve,” Flax said. “We all move as one, and if one person doesn’t do their job every snap of every game, it will end up hurting us in the long run.” Flax has set ambitious goals for himself on both sides of the ball. Offensively, he hopes to be a consistent scoring threat, while defensively he wants to make a significant impact every week.

“The goals that I have for myself are to have 3-plus touchdowns on the offensive side and multi-tackle or multi-sack games on defense in every game of the season,” Flax said.

Despite those individual aspirations, Flax said the team’s ultimate objective remains clear. “Our team’s goal is to win the state championship,” he said. “We believe we have the right people and the right coach to take us to the mountaintop.”

HALSTEAD BANK’S WICHITA LINEBACKER POLL WINNER

Halstead’s Reece Carmichael Halstead’s Reece Carmichael has spent the offseason focused on a goal that extends well beyond individual statistics. As the Dragons prepare for the 2026 football season, the senior is eager to see just how far the program can go in the postseason.

GO DRAGONS!

“The thing I’m most excited about this upcoming season is seeing how far we can go in the postseason and making some noise around the CKL,” Carmichael said. “I’m excited to see what our team can accomplish together and how much we can achieve if we continue to work hard.”

That team-first mentality has been evident throughout the offseason. Halstead has emphasized strength and conditioning while taking advantage of opportunities to compete against other programs during the summer.

“During the offseason, we’ve been working hard in the weight room to get stronger and faster,” Carmichael said. “We’ve also attended camps at Buhler, Inman and our own install camp. Everyone has been putting in the work, and you can really see how much our team has improved.” While Carmichael has seen progress across the roster, he has also challenged himself to become a more complete athlete. Improving his speed has been a priority, knowing it can help him make an even bigger impact on both sides of the ball.

“One area I want to improve on this year is my speed,” he said. “During the offseason, I’ve been working on getting faster by staying active and focusing on improving my overall athleticism.” The Dragons have also placed a premium on taking care of the football, recognizing that limiting turnovers could be the difference in close games throughout the season. “As a team, one of our biggest goals is to reduce fumbles, so we’ve spent a lot of time emphasizing ball security and protecting the football during drills,” Carmichael said.

Individually, Carmichael has set a lofty benchmark. He hopes to surpass 120 tackles this season, a total that would highlight his production as one of Halstead’s defensive leaders. But his personal aspirations remain secondary to the team’s pursuit of history.

“One of my personal goals this season is to record 120 or more tackles,” Carmichael said. “As a team, our goal is to make the deepest postseason run in school history and accomplish more than any team before us.”

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KEN GOOCH’S SHELTER ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Belle Plaine’s Mattix Bruner Mattix Bruner is focused on helping change the direction of the Dragons’ program while continuing to develop his game for the next level. Bruner said the opportunity to play one final season with his teammates is what excites him most as the start of the season approaches.

“I’m most excited to get to play my last high school season with the team,” Bruner said. “Everyone is very eager to get on the field this year and to make a change from the past few seasons.” Bruner has spent the offseason working to improve his athleticism and prepare for a bigger senior campaign. Much of his training has centered on agility drills and strength development.

“Here in the offseason, I’ve been doing mostly cone work to get my agility better,” Bruner said. “Along with that, I have been in the gym.”

He also attended the Revive Performance Football Showcase at Wichita Trinity Academy earlier this summer to compete and continue his development.

While Bruner has established himself as one of Belle Plaine’s top playmakers, he believes there is still room for improvement before the season begins.

“For my upcoming season, areas I am focusing on are my coverages on defense,” he said. “I haven’t worked on that as much as I had liked to, but I definitely will focus on that when the season comes around.” Bruner enters his senior year after producing on both sides of the ball during the 2025 season. He rushed for 278 yards and four touchdowns, added 486 receiving yards and two touchdowns, compiled 1,378 all-purpose yards and recorded 41 solo tackles. His performance earned first-team All-District honors on offense and defense, first-team AllLeague recognition on offense, second-team All-League honors on defense and honorable mention All-State recognition as a returner.

Individually, Bruner has set ambitious goals for his final high school season while keeping the team’s success at the forefront.

“Personally, my goals for this season are to reach 2,000 yards, improve my leadership on and off the field, and show college coaches that I am ready for the next level,” Bruner said. “For the team, my goals are to all work together on the field and to show what we are all capable of.”

IDLE HOUR’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Chaparral’s Trace Hadsall Trace Hadsall believes the work put in during the offseason will show once Chaparral takes the field this fall.

The returning standout said the combination of a new coaching staff, summer workouts and high expectations has him eager for the start of the season.

“I’m excited about our new coaching staff and what they bring to the table,” Hadsall said. “I’m most excited to get on the field with my teammates and show teams the work that we have been putting in all summer.” Hadsall spent the offseason preparing through team workouts and by attending football camps. He said he was a regular participant in morning strength and conditioning sessions with Chaparral’s weight coaches.

“I have attended camps and gone to workouts every morning of the week with our weights coaches,” he said.

One of Hadsall’s primary areas of focus has been improving his speed, something he believes can elevate every aspect of his game.

“The biggest thing for me that I want to improve on this year is my speed,” Hadsall said. “I have been doing speed and agility training with our weights program to get faster.”

After contributing in multiple phases last season, Hadsall has set ambitious goals for his junior campaign. Individually, he hopes to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards while reaching double digits in touchdowns. As a team, he wants Chaparral to put together a memorable season. “Individual goals I have for this season are to break 1,000 receiving yards and score at least 10 touchdowns,” Hadsall said. “Team goals I have are to go undefeated in the regular season and make a strong playoff run.” Last season, Hadsall rushed for 211 yards on 49 carries with one touchdown while adding nine receptions for 163 yards and two receiving touchdowns. He finished with 540 allpurpose yards and earned honorable mention All-Central Plains League honors as a punter. Looking beyond high school, Hadsall hopes to continue his athletic career on the baseball diamond while pursuing a degree related to physical therapy.

“My future plans are to hopefully play baseball at the collegiate level,” Hadsall said. “I want to get a degree in a study that has to do with physical therapy.” 84

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QED WEALTH SOLUTIONS’ ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Kingman’s Jaxson Campbell Jaxson Campbell believes the foundation for a successful season is already being built at Kingman. After a productive offseason in the weight room and on the practice field, Campbell is excited to see the Eagles put their preparation to the test when the season begins. The senior standout said the team’s commitment and effort during the summer have created a positive atmosphere heading into the fall.

“I love the way the team is competing in the weight room this summer,” Campbell said. “It’s looking awesome. I am very excited about seeing this team compete in games and practices.”

Campbell said he and the coaching staff have been working to develop a plan designed to help Kingman have a successful season. After putting in countless hours during the offseason, he believes the Eagles have the ability to change the outcome of their season and make a deep postseason run. “We’ve put in a lot of work to change the outcome of this season,” Campbell said. “I am so excited to play with my teammates and try to lead them to a state title.” Campbell has spent the offseason preparing himself to contribute on both sides of the ball. He has consistently attended summer weights to improve his strength while also studying opponents through film to better understand what he will see on game days. Along with his work in the weight room and film room, Campbell has focused on improving his skills during football camps. He has worked on his route running offensively and becoming more aggressive defensively during Kingman’s six days of summer football camp.

One of Campbell’s biggest priorities entering the season is helping develop a stronger team culture. He wants leadership to come from every player, not just those wearing a captain’s title.

season.

“My goal is to make sure everyone in our weight room, even non-football players, are vocal, give energy, and make weights fun and loud,” Campbell said. Last season, Campbell made an impact for Kingman on both offense and defense. He recorded 19 receptions for 247 yards and a touchdown while contributing 38 tackles, 22 assists, one sack, nine tackles for loss, one pass breakup and one interception on defense.

Heading into his senior season, Campbell wants to become a more complete player while helping the Eagles reach new heights. His goals include being more effective on the field, competing at a higher level and helping the team accomplish something that has not happened during his high school football career.

“My major goal this season is to play as a team and not think I have to do everything on the field,” Campbell said. “I want to be better and more effective on the field than I was last year.”

“I want to make it to where the players do a lot of stuff together, as a team, so we can all get better and build our chemistry with each other,” Campbell said. “I don’t want just our captains to be the vocal ones. I want the whole team to know that they can be a leader without having to be a captain.” Campbell has already worked to create that mindset in the weight room by encouraging teammates and helping bring energy to workouts each day. He believes a team-wide commitment to leadership can make the Eagles stronger throughout the

RUSS HERMAN’S STATE FARM ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Bluestem’s Axton Vice Entering the 2026 season, Bluestem’s Axton Vice is eager to see how far the Lions have come after an offseason built on hard work and determination.

While Bluestem graduated several key senior linemen, Vice believes the team’s offseason commitment has positioned it to take a step forward this fall. “The thing I’m most excited about for this season is mainly to just see how much we have improved since last year even though we lost some good senior linemen,” Vice said.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

Vice established himself as one of Bluestem’s top twoway performers last season, rushing for approximately 800 yards while recording 69 tackles on defense. His production earned him allleague honors at running back, linebacker and skills player, along with honorable mention all-state recognition.

Determined to build on that success, Vice spent the offseason focusing on strength, conditioning and improving his athleticism. “In the offseason I have mainly just been working out and doing a little bit of conditioning and agility at summer weights,” he said.

The work has centered on preparing for a bigger role in the Lions’ offense. Vice hopes to become a more explosive running back by improving his speed while maintaining the physical style that made him effective a year ago.

“I mainly want to improve my skills at running back,” Vice said. “I’ve been trying to stay in good shape and get faster.” Vice has set ambitious goals for his junior campaign. Individually, he hopes to eclipse the 1,000-yard rushing mark while finishing with at least 80 tackles. Team success, however, remains his top priority. “My individual goal is to have at least 1,000 rushing yards and 80 tackles,” Vice said. “As a team I want to try to win five games and maybe a playoff game.”

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CLASS 1A

1 A GA MES T O WAT CH Week 2 Conway Springs at Cheney Sterling at Hutchinson Trinity

Week 5 Hutchinson Trinity at Moundridge

Week 6 Hutchinson Trinity at Salina Sacred Heart

Week 3 Hutchinson Trinity at Marion

Week 4 Inman at Hutchinson Trinity Moundridge at Conway Springs

Week 7 Hillsboro at Hutchinson Trinity

1 A PL AY ERS T O WAT CH Lucas Billups, TE, Conway Springs

Jake Kerns, LB, Hutchinson Trinity

Elliott Hochstetler, RB, Remington

Axton Vice, RB, Bluestem

Mattix Bruner, WR, Belle Plaine

Lucas Griffith, DL, Hutchinson Trinity BELLE PLAINE DRAGONS Last Season: 0-9

Belle Plaine starts over in 2026 under first-year head coach Curtis Albin after an 0-9 season, but the Dragons believe they have the pieces to become a tougher, more disciplined team. Albin said the focus will be on turnover ratio, pre-snap and post-snap penalties, and controlling the tempo of the game.

Belle Plaine plans to be a ball-control team behind a double-tight wishbone and belly-option offense modeled after Smith Center’s approach. Mattix Bruner, Emmett Lawless, Daxxton Bird, Brooks McGinnis, Landon Hernandez and Grady

Talbot headline a group that returns six starters on both offense and defense.

Defensively, the Dragons will base out of a 3-3 stack, mix in 4-2-5 and 3-4 looks, and rely heavily on Bruner at free safety as the “quarterback of the defense.” Albin said the summer has started well and that the players are working together to build something better, which gives Belle Plaine a foundation even after last year’s struggles.

BLUESTEM LIONS

Last Season: 3-6

Bluestem enters 2026 with a senior-heavy roster and real belief that it can build on

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Caleb Newell, OL, Conway Springs Sam Tillotson, WR, Remington what head coach Ethan Baker called the program’s best season in almost a decade. The Lions return six offensive starters and seven defensive starters, and Baker said this group will lean on its seniors to outperform last season. Axton Vice is the clear centerpiece after rushing for 791 yards and eight touchdowns while also posting 69 tackles, five tackles for loss, one sack and two interceptions. Quarterback Ayson Shepherd adds dual-threat production after running for 528 yards and nine scores, while Logan Squire gives Bluestem another proven power option after 520 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

The Lions are shifting toward more of a spread look on offense, but Baker said they still want to run the ball and control the clock. Defensively, they will stay in a hard-hitting 4-4, with Vice, Shepherd, Squire, Tyllier Freeman and Deigan Ashley-Moore anchoring a veteran front seven.

CONWAY SPRINGS CARDINALS

Last Season: 3-6

Conway Springs is coming off its first losing season in 30 years, but the Cardinals believe the way they finished 2025 gives them momentum entering this fall. Matt Biehler, now in his 29th year at the

GOOD LUCK BLUESTEM

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2026 1A TEAMS TO WATCH school, returns 17 lettermen, seven offensive starters and five defensive starters for a team that wants to get back to its physical identity. The offense will be built around Gabe Tarrant, Joseph Howard, Zavier King, Bryce Osner, Lucas Billups and a returning offensive line led by Jacob Howard and Caleb Newell. Biehler said Conway Springs wants to control the line of scrimmage, play physical power football and use its big targets in the passing game.

Defensively, Lucas Pauly, Mason Zoglmann, Tarrant, Howard, King, Newell, Ethan Partika and Billups give the Cardinals a solid base. Conway Springs listed staying healthy and playing physical smash-mouth football as key concerns, but it also pointed to improved depth as a major strength for 2026.

HILLSBORO TROJANS

Last Season: 6-4

Loewen, Amstutz, Haslett, Silhan and Nate Oelke form the core of the returning group.

The Trojans went 6-4 in 2025 with wins over Larned, Halstead, Ellsworth, Lyons, Smoky Valley and Ellsworth again in the first round of the playoffs before losing to Hoisington in the second round. With experienced skill players back and a program that finished last season in the postseason, Hillsboro looks like a solid contender in the CKL again.

great effort. The small roster and a demanding schedule that includes Sterling, Marion, Inman, Moundridge and Hillsboro make this a challenging setup, but Bell believes summer development and program strength can keep the Celtics competitive.

INMAN TEUTONS

Last Season: 8-2

Inman enters 2026 with one of the strongest returning groups in 1A after going 8-2, winning its district and reaching the second round of the playoffs last season. Lance Sawyer’s team brings back eight starters on offense, nine on defense, 100 percent of its rushing attack, 100 percent of its receiving yards and 74 percent of its tackles.

MOUNDRIDGE WILDCATS Last Season: 8-3

Moundridge enters 2026 after an 8-3 season, a district title and a secondround playoff run, but Tyler O’Connor’s team must replace 13 seniors from last year’s group. O’Connor said the expectation is that new faces will step into bigger roles, with a strong core already in place and a physical identity centered on its ball carriers and offensive line. Logan Greenwalt is one of the top returning all-around weapons after producing 279 all-purpose yards, two touchdowns, 47 tackles and three interceptions, while Garet Wedel returns after posting 45 tackles, nine tackles for loss and three sacks. Logan Wulf, Atley Lichti, Josh Koehn and standout kicker Cyrus Blough also give Moundridge a proven senior foundation on both sides of the ball.

Hillsboro returns a strong group from last year’s 6-4 team, and head coach Demetrius Cox believes the Trojans can be very good if their summer development and leadership continue to grow. The season preview notes that Hillsboro graduated several standout players, but also brings back many key contributors from both sides of the ball.

On offense, Hillsboro lists Zayne Haslett, Brayson Amstutz, Preston D’Ablini, Thurston Silhan, Braxton Hiebert, Talon Regier, Hudson Rogers, Daniel BlackmonRichard and Peter Farha as key returning starters or contributors. Defensively, D’Ablini, Farha, BlackmonRichard, Regier, Jaeten

HUTCHINSON TRINITY CATHOLIC CELTICS Last Season: 8-3

Hutchinson Trinity comes off an 8-3 season and a quarterfinal run, but 2026 will test the program’s depth after heavy graduation losses and only two returning offensive starters plus three returning defensive starters. Head coach Jordan Bell, entering his 13th year, said the Celtics are excited about a roster that is eager to learn and work hard despite being one of the smallest groups the program has had in several years. Jake Kerns, Lucas Griffith, Beau Towell and Eli Bigger are among the key returning names, with Griffith projected to handle kickoff duties and Adahir Guerrero set to return kicks. Bell said previous nonletter winners will now have chances to play meaningful Friday night snaps, which makes leadership from the senior and junior classes especially important. Trinity plans to stay multiple on offense with a roughly 50-50 run-pass split, while the defense will aim to play fast, physical and with

Senior quarterback Malachi Brunk is the headliner after producing 2,425 allpurpose yards, including 1,089 passing yards, 1,336 rushing yards and 28 total touchdowns, while also making all-state on both sides of the ball. He is joined by an explosive supporting cast that includes Korbyn McClellan, Tyler Jerrick, Braxton Malloy, Kru Harris, Bo O’Neill, Gage Sisson and Cayden Gaeddert. Sawyer said speed is a major strength, especially in the backfield and front seven, and that the team’s experience should allow it to open up more on both sides of the ball. Inman’s goals are clearly bigger than simply getting back to the playoffs, especially after beating defending state champion Conway Springs in the first round last season before falling to Moundridge.

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Blough is a major special teams weapon after averaging 37.0 yards per punt, recording 20 touchbacks, hitting a 56-yard field goal and converting 39 of 41 PATs. Wulf also stands out as the MVP nominee and a tonesetter up front after helping pave the way for more than 2,136 rushing yards while earning all-league and allstate honorable mention recognition. The Wildcats will run a spread-option offense and a 3-4 defense, and their schedule quickly tests them with Sterling, Sedgwick, Conway Springs, Hutchinson Trinity, Hillsboro, Remington and Inman. If Moundridge’s new leaders emerge quickly, the returning line strength and overall physicality should keep the Wildcats in the 1A mix.

2026 1A TEAMS TO WATCH REMINGTON BRONCOS Last Season: 2-7

Remington heads into 2026 with a clear contrast in its roster: the Broncos are young up front but experienced at the skill positions, which Matt Headley said will shape the season. Headley believes the line’s development is the biggest swing factor, because if that group grows quickly, Remington has the athletes to put a strong product on the field. The offense returns seven starters and will operate from the spread, trying to get the ball to playmakers in space while keeping defenses honest with the run game. Sam Tillotson, Darian Schwind, Darius Hancock, Asher Irving, Easton Koehn and Elliott Hochstetler headline that group and give Remington multiple options on the perimeter and in the backfield.

starters and five defensive starters from a highly successful group.

Nick Kendall is the top returning name as both the lead back and the MVP nominee, while Levi White, Grady Siemsen, Colin White and Kolby Strnad give Republic County an experienced offensive core. The Buffs run a multiformation option offense, which should again fit their personnel and keep Kendall at the center of the attack.

Defensively, Republic County will line up in a 4-4 with Kendall at middle linebacker and Siemsen, Om Patel, Greyson Novak and Owen Harms forming much of the returning front. Hodgson also pointed to freshman Halen Ludacka as an underclassman with strong long-term potential after already seeing special teams action last season.

after throwing for 1,492 yards and 16 touchdowns, while Noah Hines is the top big-play threat after 38 catches for 781 yards and 11 touchdowns and all-state recognition.

Dom Matteucci adds versatility after 781 total yards and eight touchdowns, and Jonah Kaumans plus Landon Pfiefer help anchor a line that must grow despite graduation losses. Defensively, Matteucci, Kaumans and Luis Hernandez headline a unit that returns six starters, with Matteucci bringing 81 tackles, one interception and two forced fumbles.

is hungry and has a chance to grow quickly if new faces step into key roles. The schedule is difficult right away with Inman, Moundridge, Remington, Sterling, Nickerson, Bluestem and Conway Springs all on the slate, so Sedgwick should find out early how fast that development is happening.

STERLING BLACK BEARS

Last Season: 13-0, 1A state champion

Sterling enters 2026 as the defending 1A state champion after a perfect 13-0 season, and there is still major optimism despite the graduation of several key leaders and a lot of production. Brent Schneider said the Black Bears return a deep upperclass group, strong overall numbers and enough varsity experience to keep expectations high.

Defensively, the Broncos bring back eight starters in a 3-4 scheme led by Rueben Jury, Hancock, Ryder Armstrong, Skylar Knowles, Irving and Tillotson. Headley called Jury the smartest and most physical player on the team, saying he directs the defense and thrives on contact, which makes him the centerpiece of Remington’s identity.

REPUBLIC COUNTY BUFFALOES Last Season: 8-2

Republic County comes off one of the best seasons in school history after finishing 8-2, and Jesse Hodgson said the Buffs return plenty of players ready to take on bigger roles. The team lost important seniors, but it still brings back six offensive

SALINA SACRED HEART KNIGHTS Last Season: 5-4

Salina Sacred Heart enters 2026 trying to build on the program’s first winning season in 11 years, and Ryan Krajicek believes the Knights have the competitiveness to handle a very difficult schedule. The biggest challenge is depth, because Sacred Heart is one of the smallest 11-man schools and must replace trench size while developing younger players into varsity contributors. The offense returns five starters and will stay multiple, using different looks from week to week rather than locking into one fixed system. Quarterback Maddox Wells returns 88

SEDGWICK CARDINALS

Last Season: 2-8

Sedgwick is looking to rebound from a 2-8 season, and head coach Doug Mabry says the Cardinals will lean heavily on a returning core of offensive and defensive linemen. Mabry called the line foundation the team’s biggest strength, while also noting that graduation losses, transfer losses and overall roster depth are the main concerns.

Sedgwick returns five starters on offense and five on defense, along with six total returning lettermen. Michael Petersen, Landon Barrientos, Henry Morse, Max Lynch, Skyler Weber and Julien Grundy headline the main returning group, while Nate Hansen, Braelynn Heubach, Hayden Olinger, Lane McGinn and Jackson Calhoun give the Cardinals more varsity experience. Mabry said the 2025 record should not discourage the program because this group

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The offensive line looks like the strength of the team with Derek Krone, Cameron Morris, Cody Schweizer, Maddox Link and Tucker Haas leading the way. The backfield also returns proven experience in Jace Darnauer and Deryn Maxwell, while quarterback Zac Wohler and linebacker Jacob Lewis are central two-way pieces. Lewis is one of the most productive defenders in this entire batch after recording 174 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss and three sacks, while David Myers, Morris and Maxwell also bring strong defensive production back. Schneider added that Lane Weigel remains a weapon on special teams, which gives Sterling another edge as it tries to defend its title.

P H O E N I X H O M E C A R E & H O S P I C E , PA U LY A U T O M O T I V E , A N D LARRY BAKER MEMEORIAL FUND’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Belle Plaine’s Sawyer Ehrhart For most of his high school career, Sawyer Ehrhart has been known as the quarterback who helped lead Belle Plaine’s football team with talent, poise and determination.

A varsity starter since his freshman season, Ehrhart built a reputation as one of the area’s top athletes. His performance earned him 2025 All-District Offensive Flex honors in Class 2A, while his work ethic and leadership made him a respected teammate on the football field and baseball diamond. Then, in January 2026, everything changed.

Ehrhart suffered life-altering injuries in a sledding accident that left him with multiple skull fractures, a traumatic brain injury with a brain bleed, facial fractures, compression fractures in his thoracic spine and a collapsed lung. He spent a month in the hospital and inpatient rehabilitation, undergoing intensive neurorehabilitation while facing an uncertain future. In the weeks following the accident, simply returning to everyday life was uncertain. The possibility of playing sports again seemed even more unlikely.

Yet six months later, Ehrhart has authored a comeback defined not by statistics or accolades, but by perseverance.

‘This offseason is a lot different from the others,” Ehrhart said. “I’ve had to train my body back to where I was before my accident. I lost a total of 30 lbs of muscle in over two months in the hospital. Along with gaining muscle, I’ve also had to work my brain to function the way it used to. I’ve been in Physical Therapy twice a week, vision therapy and personal summer

workouts. Since I can only be a punter this year, I’ve switched my field sessions to continuing to learn the art of punting. I’m happy to announce that after months of hard work, I am back to my baseline weight.” His recovery has mirrored the same discipline and determination that helped make him a standout athlete. Through months of rehabilitation, Ehrhart worked steadily toward returning to the activities he loves.

Against long odds, he rejoined Belle Plaine’s baseball team for the final seven games of his junior season. He made the most of the opportunity, finishing with a .438 batting average and a .654 on-base percentage. His return became a source of inspiration for teammates and the Belle Plaine community, demonstrating what persistence and resilience can accomplish. Away from athletics, Ehrhart also completed his junior year with a 4.0 grade-point average. As football season approaches, another challenge awaits.

Because of his injuries, Ehrhart has been advised he cannot return to the quarterback position during his senior season. For an athlete who has spent years leading the offense, the news could have been devastating. Instead, he chose a different perspective.

Ehrhart has embraced a new role as Belle Plaine’s punter, viewing any opportunity to contribute as a privilege after a recovery that once made returning to sports seem impossible. “Going into this season I was given two options, quit football forever or take my chance to still be on the team and become a great punter,” Ehrhart said. “All of my workouts have gone towards becoming the best punter I can be for my team. I haven’t just focused on this because it’s all I can do, but I want to give my team an undeniable competitive advantage anywhere I can.”

The quarterback who once led with his arm now leads through perseverance, humility and selflessness. His legacy is no longer defined solely by victories, awards or athletic accomplishments, but by the courage he displayed while overcoming one of the greatest challenges of his life. No matter where football takes him next, those qualities will remain the defining chapter of Sawyer Ehrhart’s story.

Phone: (316) 688-5511 • Fax: (316) 688-1081 3450 N. Rock Rd. Bdg. 200, STE 213 Wichita, KS 67226

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WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Conway Springs’ Lucas Pauly

As his senior football season approaches, Lucas Pauly is focused on more than wins and statistics. He wants to lead by example and help continue the tradition of success at Conway Springs. “I am excited to get on the field for my senior year of football and carry on the traditions that have shaped Conway Springs football,” Pauly said. “I am looking forward to one last season with my friends that I have grown up with.” Pauly has spent the offseason preparing for his final high school campaign through a demanding schedule of strength and speed training. Three mornings each week, he participates in weightlifting and speed workouts before joining teammates for an additional hour of football practice. His preparation has extended beyond the football field. In June, Pauly attended a weeklong leadership Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., where he worked to strengthen his leadership abilities before returning for his senior season. “I want to improve my leadership skills for the team and be a good role model, especially for 90

the incoming freshmen,” he said. Pauly said he plans to lead through both his actions and work ethic. “I will always do what is right both on and off the field to set a good example for the underclassmen,” he said. “I will put in all my effort during my morning strength, speed and football training to help the team and encourage everyone else to put in the effort so we can get better.” He also hopes to continue developing as a player by increasing his strength, speed and football knowledge. “I’ll watch film from previous years for upcoming opponents so I can prepare for games,” Pauly said. While his focus is on helping the team succeed, Pauly has also set personal goals for his senior year. He hopes to maintain a 3.9 grade-point average, arrive early for every workout and practice, and remain healthy throughout the season. “My first individual goal is to maintain my 3.9 GPA,” he said. “My second goal is to always be early to all training and practices. I want to stay in good health and play through the whole season while giving all effort during practice and games.” Team success remains at the top of his priority list. Pauly said he wants Conway Springs to finish with a winning record, dominate fourth quarters and compete for a Class 1A state championship. “My first team goal is to end the season with a winning record,” he said. “My second team goal is to win every fourth quarter and to not give up. My third team goal is to win Class 1A state.” Pauly contributed on both sides of the ball during the 2025 season. Offensively, he rushed for 87 yards on 13 carries, averaging 6.7 yards per attempt. Defensively, he recorded 32 tackles, including 22 solo stops, along with one forced fumble and one tackle for loss.

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PHOENIX HOME CARE & HOSPICE’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Conway Springs’ Caleb Newell After battling through a significant knee injury during the offseason, Caleb Newell isn’t measuring success solely by statistics entering the 2026 football season. Instead, the veteran lineman is focused on helping lead a team filled with new faces. Newell said he’s eager to see how his teammates develop after the graduation of several key seniors.

“I’m most excited to see how much our team develops this season with having several young teammates stepping up to fill varsity spots,” he said.

The offseason didn’t unfold exactly as Newell had planned. An ACL and meniscus injury suffered during basketball season in February forced him to alter his preparation for football.

“I had an ACL/meniscus injury in basketball this past February, which has limited my offseason training,” Newell said. “I have been working hard in physical therapy to get back to football for this upcoming season.”

working on my stamina and explosiveness on the D-line.”

That leadership role is one Newell embraces entering the season. Individually, he wants to build upon last year’s production while setting the tone for his teammates. “My goal is to be a strong leader for my team and exceed my stats in tackles and sacks from the last two years,” he said.

Last season, Newell recorded 34 tackles, including 12 tackles for loss, and one sack while earning recognition as one of the state’s top linemen. His list of honors includes KSHSAA first-team defense and second-team offense, Sports in Kansas senior small-class all-state honorable mention, Wichita Eagle second-team all-state defense, Wichita City League first-team defensive line, KSHSAA Covered Class 1A honorable mention at defensive and offensive line, and District VII firstteam defensive line honors. While Newell has individual aspirations, he said the team’s success remains the top priority.

“Team-wise, I want us to have a winning record and make it further in the playoffs than last year,” he said.

Despite the setback, Newell has remained committed to improving every aspect of his game. While physical rehabilitation has been a priority, he has also concentrated on becoming a stronger leader and sharpening the skills that have made him one of the area’s top defensive linemen. “I want to improve in my leadership due to having lost a lot of experienced seniors the past two years,” Newell said. “I’ve been

PRAIRIE STAR HEALTH CENTER’S ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Hutchinson Central Christian’s Luke Eigsti The excitement surrounding the upcoming football season goes beyond wins and losses for Luke Eigsti.

As he prepares for his final season at Hutchinson Central Christian, Eigsti is looking forward to one more opportunity to compete alongside teammates he has grown close to while seeing months of hard work come to fruition.

“I am really excited to have one more run with a group of guys I love being with and working alongside,” Eigsti said. “I’m also looking forward to seeing the work we’ve put in together pay off during the season. It’s gonna be a great season, and I’m excited to work hard, get some wins, and grow physically and spiritually with my guys and coaches.” That preparation has already been underway throughout the offseason. The team has participated in camps and early morning workouts, while Eigsti has also spent extra time building chemistry with his receivers. “As a team, we’ve had camps and early morning workouts,” Eigsti said. “We’ve also had times where I get with my receivers and we work on routes and developing that chemistry and connection.”

The offseason has included work away from the field as well.

“Personally, I’ve been watching a lot of film from last year and seeing what I need to improve on,” he said. One of those improvements has been adding strength.

Eigsti said he wanted to enter the season with more size after feeling undersized at times a year ago. Through consistent work in the weight room and paying closer attention to nutrition, he believes he has made meaningful progress.

“I wanted to add some weight and muscle mass this offseason,” Eigsti said. “I wasn’t as big as I would have liked last season, but this summer I’ve tried to be more consistent in the weight room and with what I eat, and I’ve seen gains. I want to be able to run through more tackles and be stronger in the pocket.”

While Eigsti has personal goals for the season, including earning a spot in an all-star game, his priorities begin with leadership. He hopes to set an example for younger players by demonstrating that

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football is only part of a much larger purpose.

“First of all, I want to be the best example to the younger guys that I can, and that means representing Jesus the best I can,” Eigsti said. “I want to show them that football is important, but there are a lot of things that are more important.” On the field, Eigsti hopes to help Central Christian continue its recent success.

“I also want to see the team win multiple playoff games and build on these last couple years,” he said. “Personally, I would love to play in the All-Star game and grow into a better leader.”

S I M P LY H Y G I E N E ’ S AT H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Wichita Northwest’s Ian and Jasiyet Carter Ian and Jasiyet Carter are learning that making a difference in their community doesn’t always require a grand gesture. Sometimes, it starts with something as simple as a toothbrush. The Wichita Northwest High School students have volunteered with Simply Hygiene, a nonprofit organization that provides hygiene products to individuals and families in need. Through their service, the brothers have seen firsthand how everyday essentials can have a meaningful impact on people’s lives.

“It’s good to volunteer because you could help out other people,” Ian Carter said. “It helps other people out when they don’t have stuff. It’s good to volunteer and help out because you’re helping people get things they need.”

For Ian, the mission of Simply Hygiene is easy to understand. Access to basic hygiene items can improve both health and confidence, making products many people take for granted incredibly valuable. “Simply Hygiene is good for people because a toothbrush and toothpaste make your teeth clean,” Ian said. “If you didn’t have a toothbrush and toothpaste, your teeth wouldn’t be clean, and your mouth wouldn’t smell good. Body wash makes you clean, and deodorant helps keep your armpits from smelling and sweating.”

His brother, Jasiyet Carter, was introduced to Simply Hygiene through a family member and has continued volunteering ever since.

“I chose to because my aunt had started telling us about it,” Jasiyet said. “Ever since I’ve been going, it’s basically a part of me to go.” That introduction has turned into a commitment to serving others, giving Jasiyet an opportunity to support families throughout the

Wichita community while learning the importance of giving back.

Jasiyet hopes more people learn about the organization’s work and the impact it continues to have. “I want people to know how Simply Hygiene became such a big thing,” he said.

He also credits one person for helping him discover a passion for volunteering. “Probably my aunt because she encouraged me to do it, and I love doing it now,” Jasiyet said.

Through their work with Simply Hygiene, the Carter brothers are helping ensure that basic necessities reach those who need them most. While hygiene products may seem like small items, Ian and Jasiyet have learned they can make a big difference in someone’s daily life.

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8-MAN DIVISION I TEAMS TO WATCH

8M GA MES T O WAT CH Week 1 Oxford at Chase County South Sumner at Argonia-Attica

Week 4 Cunningham at Argonia-Attica South Sumner at Oxford

Week 3 Cunningham at Hutchinson Central Christian Lyndon at Cedar Vale-Dexter

Week 7 Argonia-Attica at Hutchinson Central Christian

Week 2 Oxford at Flinthills Sedan at Cedar Vale-Dexter

Week 6 Hutchinson Central Christian at Solomon South Sumner at Cedar Vale-Dexter Week 8 Oxford at Cedar Vale-Dexter

8M PL AY ERS T O WAT CH Mak Blosser, QB/DB, South Sumner

Luke Eigsti, DB, Hutchinson Central Christian

Easton Cole, WR, Cedar Vale-Dexter

Dalton Kelly, DL, South Sumner

Tyler Brown, OL, Oxford

Tripp Carney, DB, Flinthills

Cooper Criss, QB, Cedar Vale-Dexter

CANTON-GALVA EAGLES Last Season: 4-5

Canton-Galva enters 2026 believing it is in a better roster cycle after graduating only two seniors last year and three the year before, which now leaves the Eagles with more seniors and upperclassmen to supply leadership and experience. Ted Regehr said this is the group he had been looking forward to when he took over two years ago, and he believes the team has finally found its identity.

optimism also comes from stronger day-to-day competition in practice.

Canton-Galva likes its new schedule and district draw and believes it can be competitive every Friday night with the goal of getting back to the playoffs after missing out the last two seasons. The tone of the preview suggests this is a veteran, more stable team that expects to peak late rather than simply rebuild.

Logan Gaither, RB, Oxford Beau Hall, RB, Flinthills

Maddox Pond, WR, South Sumner

but he likes the mix of returning upperclassmen and younger players and believes the group has real potential. Junior quarterback Cooper Criss is the clear centerpiece after completing 96 of 156 passes for 1,611 yards, 24 touchdowns and three interceptions while also running for 425 yards and 10 more scores in eight games. Sophomore Easton Cole also returns with proven production after 26 catches for 458 yards and five touchdowns, and senior Jo Gage gives the roster another key two-way piece on the line.

more dangerous than a short questionnaire might suggest.

CLIFTON-CLYDE EAGLES

8-MAN

The Eagles return five offensive starters and appear to have better overall numbers than they have had since Regehr became head coach. Jaxon Nightingale, Jaxon Chrislip, Ethan Brozek, Mag Cathey and Wes Prieb headline the offense, and Canton-Galva’s

CEDAR VALE-DEXTER SPARTANS Last Season: 7-2

Cedar Vale-Dexter starts a new era in 2026 with Brad Cagle taking over for his first season as head coach and his first year leading a program. Cagle said the team still has plenty to build,

Cagle made health the biggest issue for the Spartans after injuries derailed the end of last season. If Cedar Vale-Dexter can stay healthy, the returning quarterback production alone gives it a chance to be much

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Last Season: 6-3

Clifton-Clyde looks set up for another solid season after going 6-3 and returning a core group with starting experience on both sides of the ball. Russ Steinbrock said early games will be important for building depth and answering personnel questions, but expectations are high if the Eagles stay healthy into district play.

The Eagles return five offensive starters and five defensive starters, with the same core expected to carry much of the load both ways. Senior Kyzler Damman takes over as the starting quarterback after helping run

2026 8-MAN DIVISION I TEAMS TO WATCH a dual-quarterback system last year, while Trenton Benne, Emitt Tiemeyer, Ryan LeClair, Striker Affolter and Jacob Newton give Clifton-Clyde experience at the skill spots and in the trenches.

Clifton-Clyde runs a multipleset offense and a 3-2 defense. Damman is also the team’s MVP nominee, with Steinbrock praising his toughness, football intelligence, improved speed and strength, and leadership potential, all of which point to him being the player who most shapes the Eagles’ ceiling.

ELL-SALINE CARDINALS

Last Season: 9-2

Ell-Saline enters 2026 trying to reload rather than rebuild after a 9-2 season and a fourth straight playoff appearance. Joe Roche said the Cardinals must replace eight graduates who started for two or more seasons, but he is confident in a group of varsity-ready players who had been waiting behind strong senior classes.

1-8 season, as Garrett Hiebert says the program remains focused on controllable habits, individual growth and building a stronger foundation for the future. He identified mental toughness, shared leadership and competitive fire as the traits that will matter most this fall. The Bluebirds return several key pieces, led by senior quarterback and defensive back Brayton Base, who passed for 771 yards and 10 touchdowns last season while also contributing as a tackler and kicker. Senior Claudio Flores added 353 rushing yards, 26 catches and 108 tackles, while Wyatt Sommerfeld, Gage Abbott, AJ Hagewood and Josh Kahns give Goessel experience at tight end and in the trenches. Hiebert said one early challenge is finding the right mix of experienced players and newcomers in the right positions after graduating five seniors. Goessel also moves to Division II this fall with a new schedule and new opponents, so the Bluebirds’ progress may be measured as much by weekly improvement as by pure record.

Oxford’s base offense is the double wing, and Westerman says the goal is simple: run the ball, control the clock and force opponents to deal with a physical style. With Gaither back as the focal point and a veteran group around him, the Wildcats look capable of repeating as one of the tougher small-school teams on their schedule.

ROCK HILLS GRIZZLIES

Last Season: 0-8

Rock Hills heads into 2026 with a very simple message from firstyear head coach Justin Abbott: this team is going to surprise people. After an 0-8 season, the Grizzlies return eight starters on both offense and defense, which gives them a much more experienced base than most winless teams usually bring back.

third year leading the Gorillas, believes a large, experienced senior class and the program’s growing confidence can turn that progress into sustained success.

The Gorillas return seven offensive starters and four defensive starters, highlighted by senior running back/linebacker Matt Hamm-Jones, who rushed for 618 yards and seven touchdowns and finished second on the team in tackles. Senior quarterback Breken Coup is back after throwing for 963 yards and eight touchdowns, while seniors Jack Westhead, Koehn Duryea and Junior Gonzalez plus juniors Aiden Sreap and Ryder Sutton give Solomon veteran playmakers at receiver, fullback, linebacker and along both lines. Solomon will stay in its power spread offense with a 3-3 multiple defense, and Rizzo notes that the roster could reach about 30 players, its largest in a decade. The main concern is offensive line depth, but the staff is optimistic that younger linemen can grow into roles as the season progresses.

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Julian Roche is one of the biggest storylines after moving from the line to quarterback for his first varsity season at that spot. He already brings proven all-around production after recording 42 tackles, two sacks and two interceptions last year, while Jaxsen Seed, Branton Gosvener and Asher Kejr also return as core two-way contributors.

Ell-Saline will run a shotgun spread on offense and a 3-3 defense. Roche specifically pointed to players like JT Moye, Maddox Moore, Luke Walker, Lucas Swetson, Spencer Rains and Ty Tillberg as talented newcomers to full-time roles, so the season may depend on how quickly that next wave turns potential into consistency.

GOESSEL BLUEBIRDS

Last Season: 1-8

Goessel heads into 2026 with a developmental mindset after a

OXFORD WILDCATS

Last Season: 7-2

Oxford looks built to lean into its identity again in 2026, with Kyle Westerman pointing to a big senior class, a run-heavy approach and a defense he expects to stay stout. The Wildcats return five starters on offense and five on defense, which should give them enough experience to stay productive after last year’s 7-2 finish. Everything starts with senior Logan Gaither, who ran for 1,200 yards last season and also returns as the leading tackler at middle linebacker. Westerman calls him a tough, physical two-way player and the team’s MVP nominee, while senior Tyler Brown gives Oxford another major piece on defense at 6-foot-5 and 235 pounds. 94

Offensively, Rock Hills will line up in the I formation and try to control the clock and wear defenses down. Senior Eli Welchel is the featured force at fullback, junior quarterback Layn Badger returns to run the offense, and sophomore Wayson Colson plus athletes Braden Juarez and Tuff O’Connor give the Grizzlies some younger skill talent to build around. Defensively, Welchel again stands out as the team’s MVP nominee at linebacker and defensive end, while Colson, Ty Vance, Badger, Juarez and O’Connor give Rock Hills returning experience at every level. Abbott also pointed to Colson as the underclassman to watch, which fits a roster that appears to mix a few key seniors with younger players expected to take on major roles immediately.

SOLOMON GORILLAS

Last Season: 3-6, lost in 1st round to Lincoln Solomon enters 2026 in rebound mode but with real momentum after posting three wins last fall, its best total in six seasons. Head coach Devin Rizzo, now in his

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SOUTH SUMNER OUTLAWS Last Season: 3-6

South Sumner looks like one of the more seasoned 8-Man Division I groups in the area, returning 10 starters on both sides of the ball from a 3-6 team. Head coach Sean Blosser, entering his fifth year with the Outlaws after previously leading Caldwell, said the team had a great summer and is excited to improve as it moves back to 8-man football full-time. Up front, multi-year starters Tony Trillo, Dalton Kelly and Colt Schmidt anchor an experienced offensive line expected to open running lanes for senior quarterback/running threat Mak Blosser and senior back Maddox Pond. Blosser also highlighted Caleb Boone, Cole Spencer and Tanner Clark at tight end and receiver as key pieces who can give the offense versatility.

8-MAN DIVISION I TEAMS TO WATCH Defensively, the Outlaws again lean on their senior core, with Kelly, Trillo, Schmidt, Brody Heater and Ely Thompkins competing along the defensive line and Clark, Will Theurer and Boone returning at linebacker. In the secondary, Pond, Blosser, Spencer and Gabe Crampton provide depth, and the overall tone of the outlook suggests South Sumner expects to contend if its veteran group continues to lead week to week.

SYLVAN-LUCAS MUSTANGS Last Season: 11-2

Sylvan-Lucas enters 2026 with high expectations after an 11-2 season, but Ben Labertew made it clear the Mustangs still have some important spots to fill if they want to stay at that level. He likes the core returning group, though, and believes the key will be having younger players grow into bigger roles quickly.

The offense will stay true to Sylvan-Lucas’ identity with a double-tight, run-heavy approach. Senior Zayne Maupin is the obvious centerpiece after rushing for 1,900 yards last season, while senior Cai Labertew and junior Lane Brokes give the Mustangs proven physical pieces around him.

Maupin is also the team’s MVP nominee, with Labertew describing him as an extremely hard worker and a great overall football player. Cai Labertew adds another senior two-way anchor after recording 95 total tackles, and Brokes gives the team a major junior presence at 6-foot-7, 250 pounds after posting 70 tackles last year. With only four offensive starters back, Sylvan-Lucas may need a little time to settle its supporting cast. Still, when a team returns a 1,900-yard rusher and multiple physical two-way leaders from an 11-2 season, the baseline remains

receiver Conner Akred giving the Eagles young skill talent to develop.

very strong.

UDALL EAGLES

Last Season: 0-9

Udall heads into 2026 in full rebuild mode after an 0-9 season, but first-year head coach Mike Wilhelm said the Eagles have had a decent summer in the weight room and on the practice field and are focused on learning how to get better every day. The emphasis is on competing, building on small successes and growing confidence in one another rather than expecting instant results. Offensively, Udall returns just three starters and will work from a balanced I formation, though Wilhelm thinks the team’s early strength may be throwing the ball. Junior quarterback Jace Harness is the key piece under center, with sophomore running back Crayton Smith, sophomores Grayson Lawhon and Henry Erb up front and at tight end, and sophomore

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Defensively, Udall brings back two starters and will line up in a 3-3 base designed to limit big plays and keep the ball in front. Senior defensive end Frank Campbell and junior linebacker Harness headline the front seven, while Lawhon, Anthony Grahem, Braydon Akred and freshman safety Elijah Myers round out a group that will try to grow into a more consistent unit as the season goes on. The schedule starts with three straight road games and includes matchups with Erie, Oxford, Central Burden, Cedar ValeDexter and South Sumner, so Udall will be tested early. For a young, inexperienced roster, the real measure of success may be how much tougher and more competitive the Eagles become by late October than the final record alone suggests.

2026 8-MAN DIVISION II TEAMS TO WATCH ARGONIA-ATTICA TITANS Last Season: 6-4

Argonia/Attica looks like an experienced 8-Man Division II contender again, returning a large group of starters on offense, defense and special teams from last year’s 6-4 squad that reached the second round of the playoffs. Head coaches Luke Greenwood and Wyatt Williams, now in their 14th year at the co-op, own a 94-40 record at the school and a 111-59 overall mark.

On offense, the Titans bring back senior quarterback Maddex Hemberger after a season with 1,073 passing yards and 14 touchdowns plus 456 rushing yards and seven scores. Senior lineman Spencer Beck (alldistrict second team), junior tight end Garrett Morrison, junior lineman Tanner McCurley, junior first-team all-district receiver Jack Alexander and sophomore running back Jordy Torres-Roman round out a strong returning skill group.

feeling like a program on the upswing after becoming more competitive and seeing the players buy into the staff ’s process last season. The Trojans faced several high-quality opponents in 2025, and coaches believe those challenges helped accelerate the team’s growth and set the stage for new accomplishments this year.

are coming off an 11-1 season and a KSHSAA 6-man state title, but they will now move up to 8-man football with a much younger roster. Head coach Lance McGuire, in his 21st year at Cunningham and 32nd overall, noted the program has lost five seniors for the second straight year and will rely heavily on underclassmen this fall.

Offensively, St. John’s-Tipton returns three starters and operates out of a very multiple attack with a variety of formations and motions. Junior quarterback/linebacker Brooks Dunstan, junior running back/ linebacker Kaden Phillips and senior fullback/tight end/ defensive end Dominic Eilert headline the offense, which aims to use the team’s athleticism to spread the ball among several ball carriers and receivers while expanding its passing concepts and run packages.

Cunningham’s schedule features home dates against Spearville, Norwich, Pretty Prairie and Sunrise Christian, plus road trips to Central Christian, Argonia/Attica, Fairfield and Goessel. Given the transition in both classification and age, this season is likely to be more about finding footing against newsized opponents than simply chasing another trophy.

Head coach Lance Bergmann, now in his third year, is supported by assistants Parker Gates, Scott Hartman, Dean Gengler and Kelly Griffith, with booster president Cheryl Germann helping on the program side. The staff ’s outlook emphasizes continuing to grow together and pushing toward higher goals rather than viewing last year’s 4-5 mark as a ceiling.

The Wildcats bring back 12 players, including two offensive starters, three defensive starters and one defensive rotator. Top prospects Stephen Kerschen, Kollin Fischer, Brody Bock, Tyler Osner, Liam McGuire and JP Kerschen headline the returning core as Cunningham tries to translate its recent 6-man success into competitiveness at the 8-man level.

Defensively, Fairfield brings back three starters and again leans on the same core. Witt returns at linebacker/safety, Foster and Sader anchor the defensive line, McIver is back at defensive back, and Goetz and Brown add size and versatility up front and on the edge. The coaches specifically highlight seniors Witt, Foster, Sader, McIver and James Short as the leaders on both sides of the ball, while underclassmen Lucas Goetz, Lukas Gard, Garrett Foster, Marshall McCammon, Thad Brown and Quirt Fry are mentioned as notable young contributors. If that younger group comes along quickly, Fairfield has a chance to look more like a program on the rise than a simple rebuilding team.

FLINTHILLS MUSTANGS Last season: 5-5

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Defensively, Hemberger returns at linebacker with all-league and all-district honors, Beck is back on the defensive line as a first-team all-district player, and Morrison, Alexander, TorresRoman, Mason Mans and Konner Nelson give A&A an athletic, aggressive unit with proven production. Torres-Roman and Alexander also headline special teams as kicker and returner.

Greenwood says the Titans should have good team speed and an athletic, aggressive defense but still lack ideal size and must replace graduated leader Carson Vineyard. With a young roster that gained experience last year and a schedule featuring South Sumner, Pretty Prairie, Cunningham, Sunrise Christian, Norwich, Hutchinson CC and Wichita County, A&A expects to compete each week and grow into a playoff-caliber team as the season progresses.

BELOIT ST. JOHN’S BLUJAYS Last Season: 4-5

St. John’s-Tipton enters 2026

Defensively, the Trojans base out of a 3-2 look but adjust as needed, playing aggressively with a wide range of blitzes. That aggressive identity meshes with their schedule against traditionally strong smallschool opponents and reflects a program that wants to dictate the action rather than sit back.

This fall is set up as a year where system familiarity, returning skill players and an attacking defensive mindset could turn last season’s competitive strides into more wins and a legitimate push toward postseason goals.

CUNNINGHAM WILDCATS Last Season: 11-1, 6-man state champion Cunningham enters 2026 in a unique position: the Wildcats 96

FAIRFIELD FALCONS

Last Season: 4-5

Fairfield goes into 2026 expecting to lean heavily on a small senior core while a large group of underclassmen grows into bigger roles. The staff describes this as a very young team that will need sophomores and juniors to replace graduated seniors, with the seniors providing much-needed experience and athleticism.

On offense, the Falcons return two starters and will operate from a power wing set, aiming to control time of possession and play more physically than opponents. Senior Braeden Witt (QB/RB), senior linemen Gavin Foster and Dominic Sader, senior back/receiver William McIver, and underclassmen linemen Lucas Goetz plus tight end/ fullback Thad Brown are listed as the primary offensive pieces.

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Flinthills enters 2026 with its highest expectations in years after posting the program’s best season since 2007 and upsetting top-seeded Cedar Vale-Dexter to reach the regional round. The Mustangs’ motto, “NOT FINISHED! PROVE IT AGAIN!”, reflects a belief that last fall’s success was a launching point, not a peak, and the staff has set explicit goals of a .750 regular-season record, a district championship, hosting a Week 10 regional game and advancing beyond regionals. Head coach Chase Casteel, now in his sixth year as HC and 12th with the program, returns five starters on both offense and defense, with confidence that last year’s second-stringers can step into larger roles thanks to meaningful varsity experience. He is joined by defensive coordinator Jon Dunbar and special teams/line coach Ryan Jenkins, underscoring a stable staff behind the team’s growth.

Offensively, Flinthills will again feature its playmakers out of a Twins Gun I formation. Senior running back Beau Hall is the clear focal point after a massive 2025: 208 carries for 1,807 rushing yards, 14 receptions for 175 yards and 29 total touchdowns, production that

2026 8-MAN DIVISION II TEAMS TO WATCH earned him first-team allstate, all-league and multiple all-district honors. Senior quarterback Tripp Carney (320 rushing yards, 565 passing yards) and junior receiver Ty Finley (251 receiving yards, seven TDs) give balance and bigplay ability, while junior tight end/lineman Deken Girty adds physicality up front.

Defensively, the Mustangs base out of a 3-3-2 look and lean on Hall again, this time as a tackling machine at linebacker with 94 total stops, three tackles for loss, six impact turnovers and a pick-six. Carney, end Luke Jenkins (team-high six sacks) and defensive back Finley (52 tackles, three interceptions) round out an experienced, productive core. Hall is the program’s MVP nominee and “heartbeat” of the offense, and sophomore Lane Jenkins is tabbed as an underclassman to watch after making his mark on special teams and as a backup RB/LB as a freshman.

leans on balance and versatility. Cohorst is back at quarterback with dual-threat ability, leadership and poise in big moments, backed by solid depth. Bruna headlines a deep running back room, joined by Sedlacek, Ryder Sedlacek and Kickhaefer, while Sedlacek, Kickhaefer, Stallbaumer, Bruna and Ian Schlabach give the Wildcats a deep, dynamic receiver group. Dragastin anchors the line, with competition from Will Luppen, Michael Cook and others to rebuild a physical front. Defensively, Hanover has pieces at every level. Sedlacek, Dragastin, Luppen, Cook and Wyatt Simpson form the core of a new-look front, while linebacker is “extremely deep” with Sedlacek, Cohorst, Bruna, Ryder Sedlacek and Schlabach. In the secondary, Kickhaefer, Stallbaumer and Bruna return significant experience.

952 yards and 12 TDs; 68 rushes for 373 yards and 9 scores), and senior receiver Cal Barnett provides big-play ability with 26 receptions for 405 yards and 6 scores plus a rushing touchdown.

Defensively, Central Christian is equally senior-heavy. Wallace and Miller lead the defensive line, combining for tackles, tackles for loss and sacks, while Sullivan and Kooiman are highly productive at linebacker, with Sullivan posting 59 stops and 10 TFLs and Kooiman adding 74 tackles, 5 TFLs, 2 sacks and 3 forced fumbles. In the secondary, Eigsti and Barnett form a dangerous ball-hawking duo: Eigsti had 48 tackles, 7 tackles for loss and an outstanding 11 interceptions with two defensive touchdowns, and Barnett added 68 tackles, 6 interceptions and a pick-six of his own. With that much senior experience, especially at quarterback, receiver, tight end, and all three levels of the defense, Central Christian should again be in the mix to win its league and push deep into the postseason if the supporting cast around this core develops as expected.

Offensively, Little River remains option-based, leaning on decision-making and physicality. Multiple seniors bring starting experience: versatile QB/ RB/LB Jaren Garrison, tight end/defensive end Blayne Baldetti, running back/free safety Jhet Ewertt, lineman Elijah Stagner and receiver/ defensive back Logan Schubert, along with junior lineman/dlineman Bryson VanEaton and sophomore linebacker Jake White. That core gives the Redskins proven production at quarterback, skill spots and in the trenches as new faces step in around them. Defensively, Little River bases out of a 3-2 look, fitting their goal of playing a physical, disciplined style. Garrison, Baldetti, Schubert and White headline a group that will be asked to keep games tight while the retooled offense finds its rhythm.

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HANOVER WILDCATS

Last season: 13-0, 8-Man Division II state champion

Hanover enters 2026 squarely in reload-not-rebuild mode after an undefeated title run in which the Wildcats averaged 47 points per game and allowed just 8.4. The staff credits experience, a relentless work ethic and strong focus for last year’s dominance and fully expects to “continue the winning tradition” with another championship-caliber group.

Head coach Matt Heuer (22nd year) returns five offensive starters, five defensive starters and 21 letterwinners, losing only six from the 2025 roster. The senior core features end/ DB Hunter Kickhaefer, RB/ LBs Kadrick Cohorst and Brody Sedlacek, lineman Max Dragastin and end/DB Lanxden Stallbaumer, with juniors Cooper Bruna (RB/LB) and Jack Bruna (WR/DB) adding proven punch. Offensively, Hanover again

The staff believes “the sky is the limit” if this group maintains the hunger, discipline and detail that put Hanover back among the elites, with a schedule that again runs through traditional powers before the postseason.

HUTCHINSON CENTRAL CHRISTIAN COUGARS Last season: 10-1

Central Christian heads into 2026 with a strong senior-laden core after a 10-1 campaign under fourth-year head coach Matthew Barnett. The Cougars return experience and production across the lineup, especially in the trenches and the offensive skill spots, giving them the pieces to contend again.

Up front, seniors Brayden Wallace, Trey Miller and Karson Sullivan anchor the offensive line, while senior tight end Cael Kooiman adds a proven receiving threat with 14 catches for 182 yards and 4 touchdowns. Quarterback Luke Eigsti returns after an efficient dual-threat season (76-of-114 passing for

LITTLE RIVER REDSKINS Last season: 9-2

Little River heads into 2026 coming off another strong year but with a significant graduation hit, losing eight seniors from a 9-2 team whose only setbacks were one-score games. The staff emphasizes that replacing those departed leaders, building chemistry and making plays in defining moments will largely determine how high this group’s ceiling is.

Head coach Kevin Ayers begins his eighth year at Little River with a 67-15 mark at the school and 227-54 in his career, joined by assistants Chad Lafferty, Tyson Konen and Shane Cordell. The Redskins will again compete in the Wheat State League as an 8-Man Division I program.

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The coaches note that “chemistry and leadership will dictate how good we will be,” and the aim is to put a better, more cohesive team on the field each week. If the new starters grow quickly and the returning core can raise its level in big moments, Little River has a realistic shot to stay in the 8-Man I contender conversation despite heavy graduation losses.

NORWICH EAGLES Last season: 1-8

Norwich heads into 2026 looking for a significant step forward after a 1-8 debut season under head coach Adam Leroux, who now enters his second year with the program. The staff believes the foundation is in place, with most key skill players and three offensive line starters back, and is counting on a big jump from underclassmen who were thrown into major roles last fall. Offensively, the Eagles will again build around junior running back Easton Schroeder, who posted 1,051 total yards and 11

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touchdowns, and is the focal point of a physical, run-first philosophy behind returning linemen Rylan Poe, Lucas Fisher and Liam Vavra. Junior quarterback Kyedon Schroeder (394 passing yards, 4 TDs; 105 rushing yards) is expected to become a bigger threat on the ground and tighten up the passing game, while fellow junior back Marshall Eslinger (125 rushing yards, 3 TDs) and teammates Hunter Poe and Nolan Reese are being asked to “take a jump” and share more of the load.

Defensively, Norwich brings back all but two starters in a 3-2-3 base that demands strong gap control from the first five and physical play from the back three. Easton shifts back to safety, where he can roam and impact more plays after a season with 84 tackles, 5 tackles for loss and a sack, while Kyedon and Hunter Poe round out a potentially formidable trio in coverage. Up front, 4–5 linemen will rotate to keep the front fresh and stout against the run, with two linebackers needed to step up and provide the attitude the staff wants.

(19-9 at the school, 19-9 overall). The program has made the postseason six straight years, and last year marked another winning season after the last losing campaign in 2019, reinforcing that this is now a consistently successful outfit.

The Warriors compete in 6-man District 1 and the Wheat State League, running a balanced run/pass offense and a flexible, multiple-look defense. This year’s schedule features Elyria twice (including a district meeting), road trips to Tescott, MDVC and Chetopa, and district games against SCC, AltoonaMidway and Centre, giving Peabody-Burns a familiar mix of league and district opponents.

The biggest reason for optimism is the sheer number of returning starters. Seniors Ashton Talkington (OL/LB/RB), Dalton Philpott (RB/LB/QB), Colin Groff (RB/LB), Jameson Miles (TE/DL/LB), Aiden Hurst (QB/ LB) and Gage Wilson (OL/DL) all bring significant experience, giving Peabody-Burns continuity at quarterback, the backfield, tight end and both lines. Juniors and underclassmen such as Cale Gossen (QB/TE/LB), Kash Willson and Devlin Kealy (RB/ LB), Leroy (TE/DL), Maddox Wilson (OL/DL) and Brodix Renolds (QB/LB) add depth and competition across the offense and defense.

in his fifth year at the school and second as head coach, expects a solid senior core that has already been leading the program for a couple of seasons to set the tone. The staff believes leadership, experience and competitiveness are this team’s biggest strengths — traits that can keep them in games even when execution isn’t perfect — and sees real upside if the group embraces week-to-week consistency and growth. Offensively, the Panthers bring back eight starters, giving them continuity across the formation. Senior athlete Dayton Reeves returns as a versatile playmaker who can line up at multiple spots, senior quarterback Owen Russell is back to steady the offense, and senior lineman Ezra Benne anchors the front. Juniors Bridger Gile and Peter Newman provide length and receiving threats at tight end, helping balance the attack and give Russell multiple options. On defense, six starters return, including Gile and Reeves at safety and Russell, Trenten Robison and sophomore Hutch Hammer at linebacker, with Benne up front. That mix offers experience at all three levels: coverage, second-level run fits and the defensive line, which should help Pike Valley stay competitive against a schedule that includes Stockton (twice), Lincoln, Rock Hills, Osborne, Lakeside, St. John’s/Tipton and Thunder Ridge.

PRETTY PRAIRIE BULLDOGS Last season: 1-8

Pretty Prairie goes into 2026 trying to turn a corner under fifth-year head coach Blake Lee after a 1-8 campaign, but there’s genuine optimism thanks to a solid core of returning starters and a revamped offensive identity. The Bulldogs have not reached the playoffs since 2020, yet the staff believes this group can compete with a very tough district and make a push back into the bracket.

Offensively, Pretty Prairie has fully shifted schemes to a West Coast-style attack built around junior quarterback Gunner Young’s arm and pre-snap decision-making. Young returns with the confidence of the staff behind him “to read a defense and make great pre-snap reads,” distributing the ball to playmakers tight end Braden Woods and receiver Malachi Goering behind a three-man front of center Wyatt Grilliot and guards Rylan Reyes and Westin Lanning. That veteran interior line is expected to give Young the time needed for the quickgame throws that define the new system.

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Easton is the clear MVP nominee and described as Norwich football’s current starting point: a two-way workhorse, team captain as a sophomore, multi-sport standout and the program’s expected senior leader and one of 8-man’s top players by 2027. Character Counts honoree Lucas Fisher, a returning captain and FFA officer who leads team prayers and has battled back from multiple injuries, embodies the toughness and integrity Norwich is trying to build around. If the line improves, the young core matures and the Schroeder-led skill group continues to raise its level, Norwich has a chance to move from rebuilding to genuinely competitive in 2026.

PEABODY-BURNS WARRIORS (6-Man)

Last season: 7-3

Peabody-Burns enters 2026 as a proven playoff regular with momentum, coming off a 7-3 season and a 2025 sectional finish in 6-man under fourthyear head coach Eric Dutton

With that many veterans at key spots and multiple players capable of playing quarterback, running back and linebacker, Peabody-Burns looks built to keep its balanced identity and aggressive defensive approach intact. If the Warriors stay healthy and the younger players continue to develop behind this large senior class, they should be positioned to extend their playoff streak and make another serious run into the November bracket in 2026.

PIKE VALLEY PANTHERS Last season: 2-7

Pike Valley enters 2026 looking like a classic “jump” candidate: only two seniors graduated, and a large group of returning athletes saw significant snaps as underclassmen last fall. Head coach Brent Melby, now 98

Reeves is the clear MVP nominee, described as an allaround athlete who can play any offensive and defensive position and handle return duties, with speed and shiftiness that make him a constant big-play threat. Hammer is tabbed as the underclassman to watch after contributing on both sides as a freshman and showing strong blocking, ball skills and downhill linebacker play. Character Counts honoree Logan Dahl, a senior who has battled injuries but remained a consistent presence and leader, gives the program a culture anchor. If the younger players continue to develop and the team stays healthy, Pike Valley has a real chance to turn last year’s groundwork into a notably stronger season.

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Defensively, the Bulldogs will lean heavily on their middle four in a 3-5 structure. Reyes slides to nose guard with Grilliot and Lanning at defensive tackle, and Colin Shippy at middle linebacker, forming a rugged core that coaches expect to make running the ball difficult for opponents. In the secondary, Young, Woods and Goering provide “ball sense” and range at defensive back, with confidence that they can limit shots over the top. Pretty Prairie is realistic about its rugged district—Central Christian (who pushed Victoria as much as anyone last year), upstart 8-man newcomer Cunningham, and a young but solid A&A squad—but firmly believes it can “compete with all of them.” If the smaller Bulldogs get the payoff from their weight-room work, the new passing attack clicks and the defensive front plays to its physical potential, they fully expect to be in every game and are targeting their first playoff trip since 2020.

WICHITA AREA ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Oxford’s Logan Gaither scoring 20 touchdowns. On defense, he recorded 93 total tackles, including 26 solo stops and 67 assisted tackles. His performance earned him first-team South Central Border League honors on both offense and defense, first-team all-district recognition on both sides of the ball and honorable mention all-state honors. Despite those accolades, Gaither isn’t satisfied. “The area I want to improve on most is my explosiveness and my speed because that is really my most limiting factor right now,” he said. To address those areas, Gaither has committed himself to an offseason routine that begins long before sunrise. “How I have been preparing for this upand-coming season is going to weights Oxford senior Logan Gaither says is held by our coach every morning at six,” about one final opportunity to take the field with the teammates he’s grown up he said. “Then after I get off work, I do a small plyometric at-home workout to alongside. help me be more explosive for next year.” “What I am excited about most for this Gaither has set ambitious goals for his up-and-coming season is my team,” final high school season. Individually, he Gaither said. “This year is the first year hopes to eclipse the 1,500-yard rushing that obviously we are all seniors and mark while helping lead the Wildcats on will be our last year to play together a deep postseason run. as friends and a family. I’m just so happy that I get to be playing with my “My individual goal for this year is to teammates for one last time.” rush for 1,500 yards,” Gaither said. “I believe this is a good goal for myself to Gaither enters his senior season after really just be a better athlete. Our team putting together an outstanding junior goal is to make it past the third round campaign. He rushed for 1,202 yards while averaging 10.1 yards per carry and and to the championship, maybe win it.” VYPE KANSAS FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2026 | KSVYPE.COM

DEXTER SCHOOLS’ ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Cedar Vale-Dexter’s Cooper Criss my feet are while also competing and building off of the year we had last year.” The offseason has been a familiar one for the senior signal-caller. Criss has spent the months leading up to the season continuing to develop physically while refining the finer details of his game. “This offseason has looked really similar to last year with just cleaning up the little stuff while continuing to get stronger and faster in the weight room,” Criss said. A major part of that development has come through his work with trainer Brad Cagle. The upcoming season marks Criss’ fourth year training under Cagle, a relationship that has helped shape his growth as a quarterback.

Cedar Vale-Dexter had one of the most explosive offenses a season ago and senior quarterback Cooper Criss is entering his final high school football season with a simple goal: enjoy every moment. While expectations are high following a standout junior campaign, Criss said his focus is centered on making the most of his final year alongside his teammates. “The thing I am most looking forward to this year is just one last run with my teammates and living in the moment,” Criss said. “Sometimes we can take this game for granted, but we only get it for four years at the high school level, so just really enjoying it and being where

“This will be my fourth year with coach Brad Cagle as my main trainer,” Criss said. “Just building our trust while working with one another every day on the field. We are working on cleaning up a bunch of little stuff with footwork and pocket presence.” Despite leading the state in passing yards last season, Criss believes there is still room for improvement. One area he has targeted is his ability to connect on deep passes. “One area I definitely want to improve in is deep ball completion rate,” Criss said. “Although I led the state in passing yards, I felt like my deep ball wasn’t landing as much as I would like it to. We have been cleaning that up by doing drills to do with touch and accuracy.” As a senior, Criss is focused on continuing the success Cedar Vale-Dexter established a year ago while embracing a leadership role. “My goals for this year are to improve every day while enjoying the game and my last year playing,” Criss said. “We had a great year last year, so just building off of that foundation we built and winning a lot of football games. Personal goals this year are to be a great leader and do whatever it takes to win games.”

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B U L L S E Y E B OW ’ S AT H E L E T E S P OT L I G H T

Cedar Vale-Dexter’s Jordan Davis Cedar Vale-Dexter underclassman Jordan Davis is approaching the upcoming season with a mix of patience, ambition and steady offseason work, aiming to carve out a bigger role while learning from the upperclassmen he has long looked up to.

“I’m most excited about getting the opportunity to play alongside the upperclassmen I’ve looked up to for years,” Davis said. “As a younger player, it’s exciting to be able to compete on the varsity field, contribute to the team’s success, and continue building my skills and experience. I’m looking forward to proving myself, improving every week, and making an impact whenever I get the chance.” Davis said his offseason has been packed with baseball, weight training and extra work with teammates, all designed to prepare him for a larger role this fall.

“This offseason, I’ve stayed busy by playing baseball, which has helped me stay athletic, keep my arm strong, and stay in game shape,” he said. “I’ve also been attending my school’s summer weights and conditioning program to get stronger and improve my overall fitness. On top of that, I’ve been training with my coach and our quarterback to sharpen my football skills and build chemistry. I’m doing everything I can to make sure I’m ready to compete this season.” While Davis is eager to contribute, he also has a clear focus on development, particularly expanding his versatility on both sides of the ball.

“One area I want to improve on this year is becoming a more versatile and aggressive player who can make an impact on both sides of the ball,” he said. “I want to help my team in every way possible, no matter where I’m needed. During the offseason, I’ve worked on different positions, competed in multiple sports, and stayed active to improve my speed, reaction time, and overall athleticism. I’m confident all of that preparation will help me play at a higher level this season.” His goals for the year reflect both individual milestones and team success.

“One goal I have this season is to make a big impact on the field and hopefully even have the chance to break some school or state records,” Davis said. “Another individual goal is to prove to myself, my coaches, and future coaches that underclassmen deserve an opportunity to prove what they can do on the varsity field and in practice. As a team, my goal is to do whatever I can to help us win games, compete for a championship, and have a successful season together.”

On the field, Davis has set ambitious statistical targets: 35 passing touchdowns, 15 rushing touchdowns and 80 total tackles.

Looking ahead, he hopes his athletic career continues beyond high school.

“My future plans are to continue pursuing my athletic career, whether that’s in football or baseball,” Davis said. “My dream is to earn the opportunity to play at a well-rounded Division I college while earning my degree. After college, I’d like to become a lineman or work as a coach or teacher because I enjoy sports and helping others improve. No matter which path I take, I plan to keep working hard, chasing my goals, and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way.”

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H A R S H B A R G E R AG, L L C ’ S A T H L E T E S P O T L I G H T

Norwich’s Lucas Fisher the new plays figured out and perfecting my stance and my mobility to move from one position to another.” Fisher said one of his primary individual goals this season is increasing his sack production. To work toward that, he focused heavily on strength training and explosiveness off the line. “One area I have been wanting to improve on is my sack numbers,” he said. “Throughout the summer I have been hitting the weights hard to increase my strength and to increase my mobility getting off the line and getting passed defenders.” Along with personal development, Fisher said team Norwich football player Lucas Fisher is approaching success remains the top priority, specifically helping Norwich achieve a winning season. the upcoming season with a focus on growth, “A team goal I have is to end the season with a leadership and helping his team chase a winning winning season,” he said. “It has been a very long record for the first time in years. time since Norwich has ended a football season Fisher said the biggest excitement heading into the fall is simply being back on the field with teammates with a winning record.” Fisher also emphasized his desire to step into a while balancing progress in the classroom. leadership role and help build team chemistry. “One thing I am excited for is being able to have “An individual goal I have is to be a leader to my the opportunity to play football with my friends team and to help connect the team as one to achieve and having a supportive family and community watching me increase my academic abilities,” Fisher great success,” he said. said. Last season, Fisher recorded 21 total tackles, one sack, one interception, six receiving yards and four During the offseason, Fisher committed to a steady total points. training routine designed to improve both strength and speed while sharpening his understanding of Looking ahead after high school, Fisher plans to the game. continue his education and pursue a technical career. “I have been lifting weights 5 times a week throughout the summer building my strength, “After high school, I plan on attending Hutch increasing my speed, and lifting with my Community College,” he said, “where I plan to teammates,” he said. “I have also been attending become a John Deere diesel mechanic.” football practices throughout the summer getting

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FA L C O N R E A L E S TAT E , S C H RO E D E R L AW N S E R V I C E , R E G A S A A E R O S PA C E A N D T B L A C K R E S O U R C E S L L C ’ S A T H L E T E S P O T L L I G H T

Norwich’s Easton and Kye Schroeder For Easton and Kye Schroeder, football is more than just a game. It is an opportunity to compete alongside teammates, build relationships and represent Norwich on Friday nights.

The brothers enter the season focused on helping the Eagles take another step forward, bringing with them a strong work ethic developed throughout the offseason and a commitment to leading those around them. “I’m most excited about the chance to get back on the field to play football this fall,” Easton said. “It means a lot to be a part of a team and experience everything that comes with playing together.”

Easton, an upperclassman looking to make an impact on both sides of the ball, spent the offseason preparing with his teammates through workouts, conditioning and football skill development. The summer also included rehabilitation as he continued to strengthen his knee after suffering an injury during last season’s playoffs. “We have been working out together all summer: weights, conditioning, and football skills,” Easton said. “This has helped us create stronger bonds and grow closer as a family. I’ve been doing physical therapy to strengthen my knee that I injured at the end of the season in the playoffs.”

Despite the setback, the injury has provided extra motivation heading into the new season. In eight games last year, Easton carried the ball 100 times for 771 yards and seven touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game, recording 15 receptions for 280 yards and four touchdowns. Easton suffered the knee injury on the third play of Norwich’s eighth game against Victoria and was unable to return, but he has used the experience to fuel his preparation.

“This has definitely motivated me to work even harder for this season,” Easton said. As he enters another season with the Eagles, Easton is focused on becoming a stronger leader. He has emphasized communication, encouragement and setting an example for younger teammates. “As an upperclassman, I want to be a better leader and a teammate,” Easton said. “I have really tried to lead by example and help create a positive environment where everyone feels important, works hard and improves

together.”

Kye has taken a similar approach during the offseason, focusing on improving his strength, speed and football skills. He has spent time in the weight room, worked through position-specific drills and dedicated extra time to improving his technique.

“During the offseason, I’ve been in the weight room consistently, working on getting stronger and faster,” Kye said. “I’ve also been doing position-specific drills, conditioning, and spending extra time working on my technique.”

For Kye, the biggest area of focus has been consistency. Through repetition, additional drills and studying the game, he hopes to put himself in position to perform at a high level each week. “One area I want to improve is my overall consistency,” Kye said. “During the offseason, I focused on repetition, extra drills, and studying the game so I can make better decisions and play at a high level every game.”

Both Schroeder brothers share similar goals heading into the season. Easton wants to become more efficient as a runner, reduce mental mistakes and help Norwich compete for a district title and a deep playoff run. Kye hopes to make an impact every week while continuing to develop as a player. “My individual goal is to be the best player I can be, make a big impact every game, and continue improving throughout the season,” Kye said. “As a team, our goal is to compete for a championship, play together, and make a deep playoff run.”

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YMCA for All Spotlight Sidney Burris Sidney Burris never expected a simple decision to save her son’s soccer season would change the course of her life. In 2023, the South Farha YMCA faced a coaching shortage, leaving her son’s youth soccer team without someone to lead it. Rather than watch the season disappear, Burris volunteered. That one decision has since led her from volunteer coach to a full-time role with the Greater Wichita YMCA Metro Office.

“I just couldn’t bear the thought of my son, or any of the other kids, losing their season,” Burris said. “What started as a quick decision to fill a volunteer gap ended up completely reshaping my life’s trajectory. Today, my journey has come full circle, and I now have the privilege of working full-time for the Greater Wichita YMCA Metro Office.”

While the career opportunity has been rewarding, Burris says the relationships she has built through the YMCA have left the greatest impact.

One of her favorite memories came from coaching a player who initially struggled with participation and sportsmanship. Burris saw potential in him and challenged him throughout the season. Weeks after the season ended, the two unexpectedly crossed paths at a baseball event.

“He ran over to give me three giant hugs,” Burris said. “When I asked what they were for, he smiled and said he wanted to thank me for being a consistent, supportive presence in his life.” For Burris, that moment reinforced that coaching extends well beyond wins and losses.

“Today, he is a team leader who actively lifts up those around him,” she said. “Watching him find his worth is the greatest reward I could ever ask for.” Another unforgettable moment came when North YMCA Sports Director Alec nominated Burris for Coach of the Year. Following what Burris described as an especially difficult personal chapter, the recognition carried special meaning.

“It was the first time in a long time I felt truly seen and appreciated,” Burris said. “It made me realize that while I thought I was just a volunteer coach handing out snacks, the community saw the heart I was putting into it, and the time I spent on the field was making a real, lasting impact.” Burris credits the YMCA with helping her grow not only as a coach, but also as a person.

“The YMCA helped me heal and find my confidence when I had lost my own,” she said. “There were days I walked onto that soccer field carrying a very heavy weight, but I always left feeling lighter because of the children, parents, volunteers, staff and fellow coaches who surrounded me.”

YOUR TEAM. YOUR Y.

Through those experiences, Burris discovered that effective leadership isn’t about perfection.

“I learned that leadership isn’t about having all the answers or being perfect,” she said. “It’s simply about showing up and creating a space where people feel they belong. The Y gave me a profound sense of purpose and taught me that even in our hardest moments, we don’t have to walk alone.” As someone whose life changed because she answered the call to volunteer, Burris encourages others to take the same chance.

“My advice is simple: just take the leap and sign up to coach,” she said. “You don’t need to be a professional sports expert, and you don’t need to have everything figured out to make a difference.”

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Andre Williams

For Andre Williams, choosing the right college wasn’t just about finding a place to play football. It was about finding an environment that would help him grow on and off the field. That search led Williams to Hutchinson Community College, where he found a program built on accountability, high expectations and a commitment to developing student-athletes into wellrounded individuals. “I chose Hutchinson CC because I saw a program where I could develop not only as a studentathlete, but also as a young man,” Williams said. “I was also really drawn to the high standards they hold for their players.” Those standards have helped create a culture that Williams says extends far beyond football. As a Blue Dragon, he has found himself surrounded by teammates and coaches who challenge one another every day while providing support along the way. Some of his favorite aspects of being a student-athlete at Hutchinson are the close-knit community and the relationships built throughout the program. “Some of my favorite things about Hutch are the supportive community and the high level of accountability the coaches maintain with the players,” Williams said. Williams describes the atmosphere within the football program as one built on trust, shared goals and mutual respect. “To me, the culture is like a brotherhood,” he said. “Everyone is focused on achieving their goals, and we constantly push each other, both teammates and coaches alike.” That combination of accountability and camaraderie has helped reinforce why Hutchinson has become one of the premier junior college football programs in the country. Players are expected to give their best every day while knowing they have teammates and coaches invested in their success. For prospective student-athletes considering Hutchinson Community College, Williams understands there can be uncertainty about taking the next step. His advice is simple. “If a student-athlete is interested in Hutch but has some hesitation, I would recommend that they trust their gut feeling,” Williams said.

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HELLAS CONSTRUCTION FIELD OF THE MONTH

Here’s a peek at the projects we’ve had in the works this summer. Keep an eye out for completion photos!

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Community

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Volunteering:

Goddard Eisenhower High School

Hosting Drives: Maize Middle School Andover eCademy NHS Martin Elementary Andover Central HS Football Maize Middle School

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