Go Blue Comets!

Eudora Fort Scott

2022 Record: 8-2 / Frontier League

Head Coach: Drew Steffen (2nd year, 8-2)

Assistants: Dain Hammerschmidt, Ben Moeckel, Jason Tharp, Van Love, Tyler Mann

Offense: Flexbone Triple Option Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Kole Manley, QB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Braylen Hoobler, SB/LB, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Matt Magette, SB/LB/SS, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Adrion Seals, WR/FS, 6-0, 155, Sr.; Thomas Cromer, OL, 6-2, 260, Sr.; Braeden VanDonge, OL, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Owen Wilks, DL, 6-0, 255, Sr.; Errol Siemen, LB, 6-1, 180, Jr.; Christian Jarrett, CB, 5-11, 165, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Errol Siemen, 107 car., 795 yds., 8 TDs

Passing: Kole Manley, 38-61, 739 yds., 14 TDs

Receiving: Adrion Seals, 21 rec., 412 yds., 7 TDs

Tackles: Braylen Hoobler, 99 tkls. Sacks: Owen Wilks, 3 Ints.: Adrion Seals, 4 INTs

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our goals are to continue to build on our success we had last year on both sides of the ball, challenge ourselves daily to be physically and mentally prepared to play the best in the 4A playoffs, and give ourselves a chance to win a league title.”

Notes: In his first year as head coach last fall, Drew Steffen continued the building process started by Sean Hayden in 2018, guiding the Cardinals to a twowin improvement from 2021 (6-5 to 8-2), Eudora’s best record since a state semifinal appearance and 8-4 mark in 2015. The Cardinals nearly knocked off eventual 4A champs Bishop Miege in regionals, falling 33-26. Steffen enters year two on the job with plenty of bricks to continue building on Hayden’s foundation. QB Kole Manley is back to orchestrate the offense and he has a number of instruments to use in the arrangement including talented receiver Adrion Seals and speedy backs Matt Magette, Errol Simien, and Braylen Hoobler. That quartet will also serve as key pieces in the back half of the defense.

2022 Record: 6-4 / Southeast Kansas League

Head Coach: Deonta Wade (4th, 10-17)

Assistants: Mark Andrews, Mike O’Connor, Jeremy Neuenschwander, James Newton, Jaylen Logan

Offense: Wing T Defense: 4-2

Returning starters: Kainen White, OL/DL, 6-1, 277, Sr.; Amanie Luten, TE/DB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Amir Luten, WR/DB, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Joseph Neuenschwander ,TE/ LB, 5-10, Sr.; Brayson Voss, OL/LB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Axel Erne, QB, 5-9, 155, Jr.; Keshawn Hayes, WR/ DB, 5-8, 150, Jr.; Aaron Tunstall, RB/DB, 5-8, 175, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: LaMarcus Allen, 138 car., 888 yds., 8 TDs Passing: Axel Erne, 29-59, 321 yds., 4 TDs Receiving: Amir Luten, 8 rec., 137 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Brayson Voss, 86 tkls. Sacks: Kainen White, 6 Ints.: De’Ontay Galindo, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(Our goals are to) win our league, excel in all facets of the game, play deep into November, and make sure the West runs through Coffeyville, Kansas.”

Notes: The Golden Tornado took a big step forward last season as Deonta Wade followed up a pair of two-win seasons with a six-win season. Wade will expect even more this fall thanks to the return of seven players with starting experience including standout defensive lineman Kainen White, explosive twins Amanie and Amir Luten, and top returning tackler Brayson Voss. Junior offensive lineman Keiton Jones has the size (6-5, 300) and strength (600 pound squat, 320 pound bench) to emerge as a high level college football prospect. Wade did get some bad news in the offseason when it was learned returning 1,000-yard rusher Jeremy Colbert Jr. would be unable to play his senior year, and LaMarcus Allen would transfer to Independence, but three other rushers with at least 357 yards in 2022 do return.

2022 Record: 2-7 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. IV

Head Coach: Brandon Wise (2nd year, 2-7; 4th overall, 14-17) Assistants: Dustin Patee, Drew Carney, Chris Jones, Brett Gunderson, Micah Miller

Offense: Flexbone Defense: Odd

Returning starters: Cole Rickard, WR/LB, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Trace Fowler, RB/DB, 5-11, 155, Sr.; Brendin Corter, WR, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Dillon Scott, WR/LB, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Cole Eaton, OL/DL, 5-11, 215, Sr.; Bronson Larimer, OL/LB, 5-11, 210, Jr.; Kru Sanchez, DL, 5-8, 225, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Trace Fowler, 35 car., 249 yds. Passing: N/A Receiving: Cole Rickard, 5 rec., 69 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Cole Rickard, 43 tkls. Sacks: Dillon Scott, 2 Ints.: Dillon Scott, 3

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We want to get better everyday in practice. We are hoping to play to the best of our ability, and go compete. It’s important that we stay healthy, and that our kids who have had limited experience step up into big roles.”

Notes: The Wildcats could muster just two wins in their first season under Brandon Wise, but four of the seven losses were very competitive, including three of which were by 13 points or less. As Wise leads his squad into 2023 he’ll have several new faces. EHS graduated All-AVCTL selections Jalen Rice (AVCTLIV Defensive MVP), Michael Riddle, Gannon White, Aidan Mays, Levi Wittenberg, and Adam Cavallaro, but he does have a pair of bright spots back in long, athletic seniors Cole Rickard and Dillon Scott. The duo will hold down two linebacker spots for EHS with Rickard the top returning tackler at 43 stops a year ago and Scott the top returning sack man (2 sacks) and pass defender (3 INTs) from a year ago. If Wise can develop the O-line the offense could be potent.

INDEPENDENCE KC-FL SCHLAGLE

2022 Record: 1-8 / Southeast Kansas League

Head Coach: Kendall Fiscus (1st year; 4th overall, 11-17) Assistants: Ford Hall, Mike Rose, Lance Fabrizius, Matt Foreman

Offense: N/A Defense: N/A

2022 Record: 1-8 / Meadowlark Conference

Head Coach: Cernyn Macon (3rd year, 1-16) Assts.: Reggie Jones, Steven Vincent, Nick McGrain, Steve McIntosh, Dakota Collins, Gregg Suttington

2022 Record: 2-7 / Southeast Kansas League

Head Coach: Bo Graham (5th, 11-24) Assistants: Matt Glades, Adam Clements, Alvin Metcalf Jr., Jared Martin, Josh Messer, Brennen Feeback

Offense: Flexbone Option Defense: Multiple 4-3

Returning starters: Lennox Vann, QB/DB, 6-2, 180, Jr.; Cal Cosens, RB/DB, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Cedrik Martin, WR/DB, 5-7, 155, Sr.; Jasper Allison, RB/LB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Jacob Snyder, OL/DL, 6-2, 260, Sr.; Ty Marbery, WR/DB, 6-4, 190, Jr.; Colton Rogers, RB/ LB, 5-10, 185, Jr.; JC Gross, RB/LB, 6-0, 155 Jr.; Eli Martin, OL/DL, 6-0, 190, Jr.; Adam Wright, OL/DL, 6-2, 225, Jr.; Luke Harris, OL/DL, 6-4, 300, Jr.; Jaden Garcia, OL/DL, 6-3, 280, Jr.; Sam Hoover, OL/DL, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Blake Tomasi, OL/DL, 5-8, 250, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Cal Cosens, 89 rush., 469 yds., 5 TDs

Passing: Cal Cosens, 14-47, 247 yds.; Lennox Vann, 11-29, 170 yds., 3 TDs Receiving: Cedrik Martin, 7 rec., 80 yds. Tackles: Jasper Allison, 58 tkls. Sacks: N/A Ints.: Lennox Vann, 3

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our goals are to play hard and play physical every Friday night we step on the field. Effort and execution will be the keys to our success.”

Notes: The Tigers dropped seven of nine contests last fall and found it especially difficult to consistently produce on offense, scoring more than one TD in just one of those losses, a 48-12 defeat by Atchison in Week 9. Coach Bo Graham expects an experienced group to be more effective this fall with four returning starters that carried the ball at least 61 times and rushed for at least 215 yards each. A similarly experienced defense is expected to improve as well thanks to the return of 13 players with starting experience. While the Tigers are a year older, the group will still be pretty young, with just four of those returning starters in the senior class. A huge group of juniors will carry this team the next two seasons.

Returning starters: Camdon Julian, QB/DB, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Saxton Renfro, WR/DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; JD Veile, RB/LB, 5-10, 155, Jr.; Jake Garris, OL, 6-2, 230, Sr.; Truman York, OL/DL, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Dillon Kuehn, OL, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Dylan Cooley, OL/DL, 6-2, 265, Jr.; Nate Davis, LB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Toby Lawless, DB, 5-10, 155, Jr.; Dusten Fischer-Asgari, LB, 5-9, 185, Sr.; Joshua Foreman, LB, 5-10, 170, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Camdon Julian, 181 car., 892 yds., 9 TDs

Passing: Camdon Julian, 51-28, 733 yds., 8 TDs Receiving: Saxton Renfro, 23 rec., 292 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Dusten Fischer-Asgari, 97 tkls. Sacks: Dusten Fischer-Asgari, 2 Ints.: Camdon Julian, Toby Lawless, Saxton Renfro, 1 INT. ea.

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “N/A”

Notes: After three seasons as the head coach at Phillipsburg, Fredonia native Kendall Fiscus returns to his southeast Kansas roots to take over at Independence for Robert Henderson, who moves on after just one season as the head coach of the Bulldogs. Fiscus inherits an experienced team that went 1-8 last year, but three of those losses were by seven points or less, including a Week 8 double overtime heartbreaker to El Dorado. Whatever offense Fiscus chooses to run – he was a Flexbone guy at Phillipsburg – he’ll have a talented dual-threat senior to run it in quarterback Camdon Julian. He’ll also welcome four experienced offensive linemen, all who stand at least 6-2, and three of whom are seniors. His defense welcomes back linebacker Dusten Fischer-Asgari who fell just short of 100 tackles last fall and Julian, Toby Lawless, and Saxton Renfro return to the Bulldog defensive backfield.

Offense: Single Wing Defense: Multiple Returning starters: Lorenzo Johnson, DE, 6-3, 205, Sr; Pierson Miller, DB, 5-11, 180, Sr; Alexander Velasquez, G/T 6-2, 265, Sr; Savion Ross, G/NG, 6-0, 245, Jr; Mark Nash, DB, 5-11,180, Jr; Cincere Lewis, ATH, 5-10,175, So; Dymyn Evans, CB/WR, 5-9,150, So.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Cincere Lewis, 8 car., 54 yds. Passing: N/A Receiving: Cincere Lewis, 3 rec., 58 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Lorenzo Johnson, 70 tkls. Sacks: Lorenzo Johnson, 14.5 Ints.: Pierson Miller, 1

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(Our goals are to) continue to build on the foundation of the program, be more competitive and fundamentally sound on both sides of the ball, and take a strong step forward!”

Notes: A dominant 55-0 win over Harmon in Week 1 was the only win of the year for F.L. Schlagle, but the Stallions were incredibly competitive with Kansas City Kansas Public School rivals dropping ultra-close games to Wyandotte (25-10), Sumner Academy (2617), and Washington (22-20). The scores against the top teams on the schedule were significantly more lopsided in favor of the opposition, but it would take overtime to decide the Week 8 game with Bonner Springs, as the Braves would edge Schlagle, 33-30. Third-year coach Cernyn Macon welcomes back several experienced players to help win those close games this fall with the defense likely leading the way early behind the return of five starters, including first team All-Meadowlark Conference defensive lineman Lorenzo Johnson. The senior led the Stallions with 70 tackles and an incredible 14-and-a-half sacks. The secondary returns three experienced D-backs.

KC-PIPER LENEXA-ST. JAMES ACADEMY LOUISBURG MCPHERSON

2022 Record: 7-4 / United Kansas Conference

Head Coach: John Black (2nd year, 7-4; 25th overall, 101-114) Assts.: Aaron McGhee, Cameron Trowbridge, Cody Melby, Jeremy Spears, Justin Richmond, Kyle Moore, Michael Klyce, Michael Dolezal, TJ Dorian

Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Jack Patrykont, OL, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Zane Pudenz, RB/DB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Aaron Henson, LB, 6-1, 235, Sr.; Evan Damron, DE, 5-11, 220, Sr.; Collin Ketter, DE, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Tannar McDaniel, DB, 5-10, 180, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Zane Pudenz, 123 car., 743 yds., 11 TDs

Passing: Gannon Roth, 5-12, 129 yds. Receiving: Zane Pudenz, 8 rec., 97 yds. Tackles: Aaron Henson, 117 tkls. Sacks: Evan Damron, 4 Ints.: Tannar McDaniel, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(Our goals are to) work hard and play hard. At the end of the day, be proud of your effort. There will be a lot of new faces on offense but they should be fun to watch. Defensively we have some great players returning.”

Notes: The Pirates graduated a very good group of seniors in the class of 2023 and saw some notable underclassmen transfer out in the offseason. Now they will enter this season with some significant questions. Coach John Black will need to replace QB Logan Ladish, All-State lineman Camden Beebe, and all-league linebackers Mason L’Heureux and Terrel Anderson from a squad that was 7-4 for the second straight season. The defense is likely the more experienced team heading into this campaign with outstanding senior linebacker Aaron Henson holding down the center of the field, senior D-end Evan Damron back to harass opposing quarterbacks, and junior D-back patrolling the secondary. Zane Pudenz is likely to carry a heavier load on offense as Black breaks in new QB Gannon Roth and rebuilds virtually the entire offensive line.

2022 Record: 1-8 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. IV

Head Coach: Daniel Myears (6th year, 21-26) Assts.: Steve Nelson, David Dieker, Kolby Fennewald, Chase Myears, Randy Fox, Pete Myers

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Kaiden Abasolo, OL/DL, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Josh Lien, OL, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Austin

Vanderhoof, OL, 5-8, 215, Sr.; Fisher Dye, RB, 5-8, 180, Jr.; Shannon Fuller, WR/DB, 5-7, 155, Sr.; Lucas Sorenson, QB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Noah West, DL, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Garrett Olson, LB, 5-9, 165, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Fisher Dye, 95 car., 385 yds., 4 TDs

Passing: Lucas Sorenson, 51-101, 585 yds., 5 TDs

Receiving: Shannon Fuller, 16 rec., 167 yds., 3

TDs Tackles: Garrett Olson, 44 tkls. Sacks: Kaiden Abasolo, 3 Ints.: Shannon Fuller, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “New people stepping into new roles and adapting quickly (is key). We replaced over half of our offense and defense with a very senior-heavy team from last year. We don’t have time for a huge learning curve to happen. We have to start quickly.”

Notes: The Wildcats have ridden quite the wave the last three seasons starting at the bottom with a 1-7 finish in 2020 all the way up to the crest of an 8-3 finish in 2021 and back to the trough of a 1-8 finish a season ago. The start to the 2022 season was brutal for the Wildcats with the first five games of the season all losses by 15 points or less including 8-0 in overtime to Coffeyville-Field Kindley to start the season, 35-25 to Independence in Week 2 and 30-28 to Augusta in Week 3. After a 14-7 win over Winfield ended the six-game losing streak that dated back to the quarterfinals of the 2021 playoffs the Wildcats couldn’t come closer than 25 points in the final three losses of the year, including twice to McPherson. Heading into 2023 sixth-year coach Daniel Myears welcomes back quarterback Lucas Sorenson and running back Fisher Dye who will have three experienced offensive linemen to work behind. Shannon Fuller provides Sorenson an experienced target in the passing game. The defense, however, will learn on the fly with a number of new faces. Linebacker Garrett Olson is the top returning tackler.

2022 Record: 6-5 / Eastern Kansas League

Head Coach: Tom Radke (13th year, 76-50; 18th overall, 98-77) Assistants: Matt Joshi, Jason Denton, Larry Beashore, Jerome Tucker, Sam Bruning, Kareem High, Jeff Adams, Brian Gray, Bill Pekarek, Joe Boone Jr., Alex Warn, Sam Charpentier, Connor Odum, Brock Beashore

Offense: Pistol Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Spencer Dohm, LB, Sr.; Braxton Gutterman, DL, Sr.; Issac Stanley, DB, Sr.; Ayden Brady, TE, Sr.; Parker Chase, WR, Jr.; Justin Kalilikani, DL, Sr.; Noah Hornback, DB, Jr.; Ben Wheeler, QB, Sr.; George Bright, OL, Sr.; John Tujague, RB, Jr.; Malcolm Russell, RB/K, Sr.; Brock McKenzie, OL, Jr.; Gabe Stimac, OL, Sr.; Bobby Ruben, OL, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: John Tujague, 88 car., 366 yds. Passing: Ben Wheeler, 11-23, 134 yds., 1 TD Receiving: Ben Wheeler, 7 rec., 99 yds. Tackles: Spencer Dohm, 77 tkls. Sacks: Spencer Dohm 1.5 Ints.: Issac Stanley, 4

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “The St. James football team always focuses on ‘improving everyday and finishing every play.’”

Notes: The Thunder couldn’t make it a third straight 4A title thanks to a 28-13 quarterfinal loss to Aquinas. SJA beat the Saints in Week 4, but the Eastern Kansas League rivals were too much for the Thunder in the rematch. Bishop Miege went on to beat Aquinas in the semis and returned to their usual post as 4A champs. The Thunder will try to unseat the Stags and fend off another challenge from fellow 4A contender Aquinas and could be in good position to do so in spite of the graduation of defensive standout Wade Spencer and star receiver John Niesen. A healthy Ben Wheeler will get to show off his incredible athleticism under center after missing much of last season to injury and Spencer Dohm is back to lead the linebacking corps. Fourteen total starters return to lead SJA in the tough EKL.

2022 Record: 9-3 / Eastern Kansas League

Randy Dreiling (10th year, 81-26; 34th overall, 266102) Assistants: Kevon McGrew, Bo Meisenheimer, Lorenzo Rizzi, Dillen Jackle, Chuck Tolson, Brock Howard, Pat Lonergan, Richard Davila, Pat Kraus, Shawn Freeman, Chris Johnson, Eric Dunbar, Nelson Young

Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: PJ Cunningham, C, 5-10, 227, Sr.; Trey Kenefake, LG, 5-10, 212, Sr.; Talan Browne, TE, 6-4, 225, Jr.; Aiden Skinner, QB, 5-11, 167, Jr.; Carson Kraft, RT, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Stephen Carroll, RG, 6-0, 230, So.; Joe Loughman, WR, 6-3, 170, Jr.; Kian Payne, DT, 6-3, 255, Sr.; Wyatt Lewis, CB, 5-11, 155, Sr.; Dillon Marshall, FS, 6-1, 191, Sr.; Julian Marks, TE/DE, 6-5, 255, Jr.; Joey Goodenow, OLB, 6-1, 180, Jr.; Wyatt Potter, LB, 5-10, 203, Sr.; Blake O’Brien, SS, 5-11, 176, Sr.; Owen Charlton, DE, 6-2, 179, Sr.; Luke Hancock, LB, 6-0, 178, Sr.; Cru Huenfeld, DE, 6-2, 207, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Gianni Rizzi, 103 car., 803 yds., 4 TDs

Passing: N/A Receiving: Conor O’Donnell, 7 rec., 158 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Luke Hancock, 74 tkls. Sacks: Kian Payne, 4.5 Ints.: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Over the course of this year we should develop into a very good team by the end of the year.”

Notes: Aquinas avenged a midseason loss to St. James in the quarterfinals of the 4A playoffs before falling 38-28 in the semis to eventual 4A champs Bishop Miege, a team they beat in the regular season 29-26. The graduation of bruising fullback Sean Carroll leaves the biggest hole on offense, but the return of the majority of the offensive line will ease the transition to new offensive weapons. Regardless of how quickly the offense develops the Aquinas defense will hit the ground running as one of the best in the state in all classes. The D-line of Kian Payne, Julian Marks, Owen Charlton and Cru Huenfeld will be downright scary and the linebacking corps of Joey Goodenow, Wyatt Potter, and Luke Hancock will tackle anything that comes their way. Anyone that makes it past the front seven will meet DBs Dillon Marshall, Blake O’Brien, and Wyatt Lewis.

2022 Record: 8-2 / Frontier League

Head Coach: Drew Harding (2nd year, 8-2)

Assistants: Gary Griffin, Alex Gentges, Kade Larson, Jake Hinson, Joel McGhee, Nick Chapman

Offense: Pistol Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Declan Battle, QB/DB, Sr.; Ashton Moore, RB/LB, Jr.; Jaymes Melton, OL, Sr.; Caden Caplinger, WR/DB, Sr.; Jackson Howard, DL, Sr.; Wyatt Holland, LB, Sr.; Hunter Heinrich, DB, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Declan Battle, 79 car., 709 yds., 10 TDs

Passing: Declan Battle, 86-152, 1,027 yds., 8 TDs Receiving: Caden Caplinger, 12 catch, 146 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Ashton Moore, 114 tkls. Sacks: N/A Ints.: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(Our goals are to) compete for a Frontier League championship and make as deep of a playoff run as possible.”

Notes: The Drew Harding era got off to a bang as the Wildcats posted eight wins and won the Frontier League. Now Harding will really get to earn his paycheck after the graduation of a strong senior class that included eight multi-season senior starters. The good news for Harding, he welcomes back first team All-Frontier QB Declan Battle, a dual-threat who accounted for nearly 1,800 yards combined rushing and passing with 18 TDs. The senior leader will be counted on to guide the offense and carry a heavy load while Harding and his staff rebuild the offensive line. The defense also has a number of holes to fill, but one known commodity is junior linebacker Ashton Moore, the younger brother of K-State linebacker Austin Moore. Ashton tallied 114 tackles a season ago and will team up with senior Wyatt Holland to give the Wildcats a stout linebacker corps while new faces emerge along the defensive line. Harding will also look for big things from junior end Conlee Hovey. The younger brother of graduated South Dakota signee Jase Hovey is 6-5, 220, runs a 4.7 40 and has a 30-inch vertical jump.

2022 Record: 10-2 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. III

Head Coach: Jace Pavlovich (9th, 72-18) Assistants: Chet Harlin, Mike Davison, Nick Gawanda, John Montgomery, Gunnar Reiss, Kaden Tichenor, David Goerzen, Patrick Corcoran, Matt Sandbo

Offense: Spread I Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Teegan Haines, LB, 6-4, 190, Sr.; Javyn Alexander, LB, 5-10, 163, Sr.; Jayse Schriner, DB, 5-11, 171, Sr.; Joe Nutt, OL, 6-4, 245, Sr.; Alex Wheat, OL, 6-1, 209, Sr.; Cory Muehler, WR, 6-0. 163, Sr.; Gunnar Schumacher, WR, 6-2, 168, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Brock Richardson, 17 car., 76 yds Passing: N/A Receiving: Blaise Hoover, 29 rec., 367 yds., 5 TDs Tackles: Teegan Haines, 112 tkls.. Sacks: Javyn Alexander, 2 Ints.: Teegan Haines, 2 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Defensively we have some holes to fill but we have some good young kids that are working hard to fill the void. We will be undersized up front so we will have to use speed and deception in order to stop opposing offenses. Offensively our only question going forward is our offensive line. We have talented kids that can get it done but they have to find a way to gel as a unit. The quarterback position is up for competition between senior Owen Fetsch and junior Carter Allen. Both of these guys are capable of leading the offense to scoring a bunch of points.”

Notes: After missing the semifinals for the first time in five seasons in 2021 the Bullpups returned to their rightful place in sub-state game last fall. They were tripped up by Wamego and so the hunt for an elusive state title berth continues. The graduation of QB Hunter Alvord and RB Jaytin Gumm will give the offense a new look this fall, but the linebacker corps of Teegan Haines and Javyn Alexnder will be one of the state’s best. Blaise Hoover returns as the top target for the new QB. The Bullpups haven’t lost more than three games in a season since a 5-4 mark in Jace Pavolvich’s first year as head coach in 2015.

Ottawa Paola

2022 Record: 2-7 / Frontier League

Head Coach: Walt Alexander (3rd year, 4-14; 33rd overall) Assts.: Pat Boeh, Evan Shaffer, Tanner Matthias, Colby Johnson, Kendall Thompkins, Ryan Ayers

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-4

Returning starters: Zetan Vink, QB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Dante Silvey, RB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Seth Ferguson, RB, 5-10, 210, Jr.; Nate Sims, WR/FS, 6-1, 175, So.; Cole McGrath, WR/DB, 6-1, 155, Jr.; Tommy Evans, OL, 6-2, 265, Sr.; Cole Callaghan, OL/DL, 6-0, 230, Sr.; Parker, Guge, LB, 6-0, 175, Sr; Keegan Riemer, LB, 5-8, 185, Sr.; Mitch Long, DB, 5-8, 160, Jr.; Zach Winter, OLB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Colin Harris, DL, 5-9, 245, Jr.; Aiden Finch, DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Zetan Vink, 246 yds., 4 TDs Passing: Zetan Vink, 928 yds., 8 TDs Receiving: Nate Sims, 10 rec., 175 yds. Tackles: Keegan Riemer, 62 tkls. Sacks: N/A Ints.: Nate Sims, 3

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Keep improving each week, play hard every play, turn close games into some more wins, we will be much improved but young, and need to stay healthy.”

Notes: Walt Alexander enters his third season at Ottawa, and though his Cyclone team has posted consecutive 2-7 marks, the rebuild seems to be on track, especially on offense, where his squad increased their scoring output 10 points a game from 2021. OHS enters 2023 with an experienced squad that welcomes back 13 total starters, and seven of those are seniors. The defense is equipped to improve after allowing at least 28 points in seven contests. Senior linebackers Parker Guge (47 tkls., 1 INT in just three games due to injury) and Keegan Riemer, and safety Nate Sims will lead the way.

2022 Record: 3-6 / Frontier League

Head Coach: Mike Smith (2nd year, 3-6) Assistants: David Kane, Darvin Willard, Todd Weaver, Morgan Roth, Tyler Riedel

Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Clayton Younger, FB, 5-8, 170, Sr.; Wade Enman, OL/DL 6-3, 255, Sr.; Eli Richmond, OL/DL, 6-3, 255, Sr.; Sam Johnson, TE, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Jace Kerley, WR, 6-0, 160, Jr.; JD Troutman, DB, 5-9, 165, Jr.; JJ Crawford, DB, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Cooper Stanchfield, DE, 6-0, 215, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Clayton Younger, 375 yds. Passing: N/A Receiving: Jace Kerley, 404 yds. Tackles: Eli Richmond, Cooper Stanchfield, 30 tkls. ea. Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We need to steadily improve weekly so that come playoff time we are playing our best football. We also need to work on winning and closing out close games.”

Notes: Graduation hit the 2022 Paola Panthers hard and the Mike Smith era began with the first PHS season with less than six wins since 2016. Those growing pains should yield improvement thanks to the return of eight players with starting experience, including five seniors. The offensive line has size in the form of seniors Wade Enman and Eli Richmond, both 6-3 and 255 pounds, and fellow senior Thomas Cordes could emerge as a college prospect standing 6-6, and weighing in at 270 pounds. That trio will contribute along the defensive line as well where they’ll be joined by explosive defensive end Cooper Stanchfield. Whoever replaces graduated QB Jett Osbern will have senior fullback Clayton Younger to hand the ball to and all-league receiver Jace Kerley to target in the passing game.

HILL SM-BISHOP MIEGE TONGANOXIE TOWANDA-CIRCLE

2022 Record: 4-6 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. IV

Head Coach: Landon Wright (1st year) Assistants: David Penner, Ryan Hill, Ross Nolan, Bryce Bischler, Nick Dickson, Jon Probasco

Offense: N/A Defense: 3-4 Multiple

Returning starters: Blake Struble, DB, 5-10, 140, Sr.; Connor Wallis, QB, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Milan Colvin, DL, 6-0, 270, Jr.; Jace Evans, LB, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Colton Roberts, QB, 6-2, 170, Jr.; Connor Jackson, LB, 5-11, 227, Sr.; Kulton Richwine, OL/DL, 5-9, 200, Sr.; Keegan Taylor, OL, 5-8, 280, Sr.; Kallen Higdon, OL/DL, 6-5, 285, Sr.; Dawson McNaul, OL/DL, 6-3, 220, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Colton Roberts, 578 yds., 4 TDs Passing: Connor Wallis, 96 yds., 1 TD Receiving: Jace Evans, 9 rec., 178 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Blake Struble, 88 tkls. Sacks: Connor Jackson, 1 Ints.: Blake Struble, 5

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “N/A”

Notes: An early June change saw Lee Weber head to Campus to serve as Jamie Cruce’s D-coordinator and Landon Wright hired to serve as the Rockets’ new head coach. A native of southwest Kansas, Wright comes to Rose Hill from Cypress, Texas, where he served as a math teacher and assistant football coach at Cypress Woods High. According to a media release from Rose Hill USD #394, Wright has nine years of coaching experience, with seven of those in the football hotbed of Texas. Prior to starting his coach career, Wright was an award-winning sportswriter for 247Sports covering college football in Texas, the release adds. Wright inherits a team with experience at multiple positions including a pair of experienced QBs and four big, experienced offensive linemen. Wright may have a rebuilding project in the defensive backfield where the Rockets graduated the dynamic duo of Luke McLaughlin (Pitt. State signee) and Pierce Probasco. Replacing kicker Teagan Cobb (K-State walk-on) is also key.

2022 Record: 11-2 / Eastern Kansas League

Head Coach: Jon Holmes (12th, 109-28) Assistants: Tim Grunhard, Pat Hansen, Ty Wendland, Adrian Pearson, Ray Williams, Steve Koesterer, Cameron Clark, Tony Roman, Kaelin Key, Bill Conley, Jason Flood, Quanzee Johnson

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Jeremy Schleicher, LT, 6-4, 265, Sr.; Baker North, LG, 6-3, 300, Sr.; Jalen Wilson, RG/DT, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Dominic Werner, RT, 6-5, 285, Sr.; David Garcia, RB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Teryn Jackson, WR, 5-11, 160, Jr.; Hollis, Moeller, TE, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Devyn Davis, DT, 5-11, 245, So.; Finn Cusick, DE, 6-2, 235, Jr.; Neil Carman, DE, 6-0, 195, Jr.; Justyce Betts, LB, 5-11, 209, Sr.; Arasto Sadeghi, LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Jack Baird, CB/WR, 5-8, 170, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: David Garcia, 150 car., 774 yds., 12 TDs

Passing: Marco Rodriguez, 7-9, 135 yds., 2 TDs

Receiving: Teryn Jackson, 54 rec., 876 yds., 8 TDs

Tackles: Justyce Betts, 86.5 tkls. Sacks: Arasto

Sadeghi, 4.5 Ints.: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We return 14 full-time starters and 33 letterwinners. Our goal is to win a state championship.”

Notes: After two years away, the Stags returned to the top of 4A last fall with their seventh state title in the past nine seasons. Even though coach Jon Holmes needs to replace ultra-productive QB Mac Armstrong and all four starting DBs, he still has the pieces to make another deep run. Likely signal-caller Marco Rodriguez has the look of the next in a long line of standout Stag QBs and he’ll have talented WR Teryn Jackson as his top target and 770-yard rusher David Garcia to feed the rock. But regardless of who the skill players are, they’ll have one of the very best O-lines in Kansas to work behind, including absolute monsters Jeremy Schleicher, Baker North, and Dominic Werner. Linebackers Justyce Betts and Arasto Sadeghi will lead the rebuild on D.

2022 Record: 4-5 / Frontier League

Head Coach: Preston Troyer (2nd year, 4-5)

Assistants: Matt Bond, Matt Thierolf, Josh Fahlgren, Jamie Fahlgren, Cole Holloway

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Isaiah Holthaus, WR, 6-2, 190, Sr.; Talon Langford, QB/CB, 6-1, 185, Jr.; Colten Brusven, RB/LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Todd Brown, WR, 5-8, 140, Jr.; Brendan Briley, WR/S, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Tucker McGuire, OL, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Ryder Sparks, OL, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Zac Fisher, OL, 5-10, 270, Jr.; TJ Leeper, OL/DL, 6-0, 200, Jr.; Cael Dye, LB, 5-8, 175, Jr.; Noah Bailey, CB, 6-0, 150, Sr.; Kendall Smith, DE, 6-1, 190, Jr.; Jackson McWilliams, K, 5-11, 180, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Colten Brusven, 243 car., 1,260, yds., 11 TDs Passing: Talon Langford, 55-138, 1,040 yds., 7 TDs Receiving: Isaiah Holthaus, 28 rec., 643 yds., 8 TDs Tackles: Colten Bruvsen, 58 tkls. Sacks: Brayden Folsom, 4 Ints.: Talon Langford, 3 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We return a lot of starters from last year’s team. Our success will depend on our ability to mature, and take the steps necessary to compete at a high level.”

Notes: After back-to-back 4-5 records the Chieftains appears to have the makings of a 4A contender this fall. Coach Preston Troyer enters his second season after taking over for his father, Al, and welcomes back 13 players with starting experienced, including 1,200yard rusher Colten Brusven, 1,000-yard passer Talon Langford, and standout receiver Isaiah Holthaus. This trio also returns as three of Troyer’s top defenders for a unit that returns seven of the top 11 tacklers, six players that posted at least a half sack, and four players that tallied at least one interception. The Chieftains also welcome back one of the top kickers in Kansas, Jackson McWilliams, who kicked field goals of 43, 40, and 33 yards a season ago and converted 26 of 27 PAT kicks.

2022 Record: 8-3 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. III

Head Coach: Logan Clothier (7th year, 18-37) Asst.: Chris Oliver, Todd Chrisman, Juwan Offray, Jeff Falkner, Jordan Thomas, Dustin Avery

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Conner Chadwell, QB/DB, Sr.; Cannon McCormack, RB/LB, Sr.; Westin Rose, RB, Jr.; Cole Glaves, WR, Sr.; Nich Ahles, WR/DB, Sr.; Drew Berryman, WR, Sr.; Andrew Tien, OL, Sr.; Tony Berryman, OL, Sr.; Malakai Maier, OL, Sr.; Caderick Korkki, DT, So.; Kobe Huggins, DT, Sr.; Coy Stephens, DE, Jr.; Ben McAdoo, DB, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Westin Rose, 119 car., 868 yds., 9 TDs Passing: Connor Chadwell, 2-4, 77 yds., 1 TD Receiving: Cole Glaves, 23 rec., 450 yds., 4 TDs Tackles: Cannon McCormack, 126 tkls. Sacks: Cannon McCormack, 5 Ints.: Cole Glaves, 5

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our goal is to focus on the process. Be ‘1-0’ in all that we do. We want to focus on creating a great team culture through love and accountability. If we do these things, our outcome goals will take care of themselves.”

Notes: After four wins in four seasons Thunderbird coach Logan Clothier led Circle to a 6-4 record in 2021 and reached new heights last fall with an 8-3 mark that included a berth in the state quarterfinals. Of the three losses last fall, two were to McPherson, 35-15 in Week 4 and again in the quarterfinals, 49-28. Gone from that team are graduated standouts Ty Smith at wide receiver and Garrick Wright on the offensive line, but the good news for Clothier is almost everyone else returns. The T-birds will have plenty of senior leadership with nine returning senior starters including top offensive lineman Andrew Tien, top linebacker Cannon McCormack, and versatile receiver and defensive back Cole Glaves. Junior running back Westin Rose also returns after picking up nearly 900 yards and nine TDs last fall.

Ulysses Wamego Wellington Winfield

2022 Record: 1-8 / Great West Activities Conference

Head Coach: Cade Albert (1st year, 1-8; 4th overall, 4-20) Assistants: Josh Sullivan, Nathan Buchholz, Jonathan Rivas, Jon Becker, Chuck Dirks

Offense: Offset I Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Joel Guaderrama, RB, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Julian Meraz, RB, 5-10, 165, So.; Uri OrtizOchoa, C, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Karson Warner, G, 5-11, 215, Sr.; Carmelo Orosco, LB/TE, 5-10, 195, Sr.; Oscar Soto, WR, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Aden Alvarado, QB/ RB, 5-9, 165, Jr.; Anthony Mendoza, DE, 5-9, 195, Sr.; Alex Navarrete, DE, 6-0, 225, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Aden Alvarado, 48 car., 131 yds., 1 TD

Receiving: Oscar Soto, 5 rec., 54 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Anthony Mendoza, 29 Ints.: Aden Alvarado, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “After playing what I believe to be the toughest schedule in 4A football, we learned a lot about ourselves and our work ethic. Last season our opponents combined record was 54-19. Out of our nine opponents seven of them were ranked at some point in the season. Seven of our opponents had at least six wins. As one of the smallest 4A schools in the state we played four 5A or 6A teams. On top of that we also played both #1 seeds in 4A.”

Notes: The Tigers found just one win against a brutal schedule in their first year under Cade Albert last fall, but UHS was competitive against quality league foes Hugoton and Holcomb and narrowly fell (27-22) to a 5A Great Bend team that won seven games. Albert welcomes back nine starters and should find the schedule more forgiving thanks to significant graduation losses by a number of those opponents. The Tigers will still field a relatively young team as only five of those returners are seniors.

2022 Record: 12-1 / North Central Kansas League

Head Coach: Weston Moody (6th, 38-15) Assistants: Nathan Good, Paul Musselman, Jacob Simon, Andrew Sorenson, Jeff Suther, Kevin Bergstrom, John Scoggins

Offense: Spread Defense: Multiple

Returning starters: Pruitt Nowlin, QB, 6-3, 175, Sr.; Thomas Mclntyre, RB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Mason King, TE/HB, 5-9, 220, Sr.; Brayden Fulton, C, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Cody Mayer, OT, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Porter Smith, RB, 5-9, 180, Sr.; Cooper Dow, OG, 6-1 190, Sr.; Brock Weeks, WR, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Jake Meyer, DL, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Wyatt Burgess, DE/LB, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Aidan Hefley, LB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Drew Pettay, DB, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Gannon Couture, LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Jackson Zeigler, LB, 6-3, 220, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Thomas Mclntyre, 150 car., 850 yds.

Receiving: Mason King, 12 rec., 115 yds. Tackles: Gannon Couture, 105 tkls. Sacks: Wyatt Burgess, 5

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We start every year with a ‘one moment, one practice, one game at a time’ mentality. If we can do that, we feel we can be playing our best football in the playoffs and be able to compete for a state championship. Getting to the state championship last year taught our kids that this is the mentality to get us to where we want to go.”

Notes: Weston Moody rode a loaded senior class to the state title game where the Red Raiders challenged the Bishop Miege powerhouse in a game closer than the 35-14 final score indicated. A talented group on D, led by LBs Gannon Couture and Aidan Hefley, and DEs Jackson Zeigler and Wyatt Burgess, will try to keep the “Boys from Boomtown” near the top of 4A this fall.

2022 Record: 5-4 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. IV

Head Coach: Jeremiah Meeks (2nd year, 5-4; 7th overall, 24-40) Assts.: Ryan Elder, Nick Wellington, Ryan Jenkins, Tim Lira, CJ Carey, Connor Burnett

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Derrick Lowe, OL/DL, 6-1, 260, Sr.; Jamar Armstrong, OL/DL, 5-10, 220, Jr.; Greer Buchanan, C, 6-0, 255, Jr.; Ethan Brungardt, OL, 5-11, 200, So.; Andrew Helpingstine, OL, 6-1, 230, Sr.; Brody Weir, TE/DE, 6-4, 240, Jr.; Carter Burnett, DE, 6-5, 210, Jr.; Skyler Branam, WR, 5-10, 175, Jr.; Grady Norris, DB/WR, 6-0, 160, Jr.; Axl Norris, DB, 5-11, 150, Jr.; Cayson Ramirez, FB/DL, 5-9, 190, Jr.; Nick Giefer, LB, 5-11, 175, Jr.; Dusty Bannister, QB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Kenny Redford, QB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Kayden Martin, LB, 5-10, 195, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Kenny Redford, 24 car., 88 yds., 3 TDs Passing: Kenny Redford, 48-88, 885 yds., 13 TDs Rec.: Skyler Branam, 15 rec., 265 yds., 4 TDs Tkls.: Carter Burnett, 65 Sacks: Brody Weir, 11.5 Ints.: Jamar Armstrong, Nick Giefer, Skyler Branam, 1 ea.

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We will need to continue to build depth to help keep people fresh. We have some underclassmen that will be looked at to step up and help carry more of the load this year. We will have a lot of experience in our front seven on defense and up front on offense. The key will be finding ways to fill in the production that we lose at running back with Malachi (Rogers) graduating. Defensively we will lean on our front seven to give us time to ease some of our younger kids into positions in the secondary.”

Notes: WHS enjoyed a solid turnaround in Jeremiah Meeks’ first year with five dominant wins and two of four losses by two and three points, the latter in OT.

2022 Record: 2-8 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. III

Head Coach: Monty Lewis (3rd year, 6-14; 29th overall, 161-96) Assts.: Layke Hoffman, Joe Vargas, Andrew Brenn, Mason Widner, Zach McDowell, grant Newton, Travis Morin, Jayden Tate

Offense: Pro/Multiple Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Landen Dupras, QB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Cale Linderman, RB/LB; Cole Wagemen, RB/LB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Hunter Reyes, WR/LB, 6-0, 165, Sr.; Luke Koerner, TE, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Jayden Sutton, OL, 6-3, 265, Sr.; Issac White, OL; Tobie Bounevongsay, OL; Zerrick Vargas, DL; Thomas Valenzuela, DL, 6-4, 178, Sr.; Mack Morin, LB, 5-11, 185, Jr.; Christian Tovar, DB, 5-9. 170, Sr.; Jackson Davis, DB, 5-8, 175, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders

Rushing: N/A Passing: N/A Receiving: N/A Tackles: Cole Wageman

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(We want to) continue the building process. (We) must learn to win the close games this season.”

Notes: Veteran college coach Monty Lewis led the Vikings to a 4-6 finish in 2021 and his squad entered 2022 with high expectations, but those were seemingly squashed with a 43-14 drubbing at the hands of rival Ark City in the season opener which launched a six-game losing streak to start the season. The majority of last season’s losses were close, though, with five of the eight by 10 points or less. The Vikings ended the year on a relative high note with wins over El Dorado and Wellington in Week 7 and 9 sandwiched around a 21-20 loss to Augusta. With 13 players back with starting experience and a renewed commitment to winning the close games Lewis and his Vikings enter 2023 with a sense of cautious-optimism.