As the new school year began, so did a new football season.
“Starting a new season is always exciting, anticipating what the ‘new’ group of players can or can’t do is something coaches are focused on. Being able to see kids maturation physically and mentally is an enjoyment of mine because I know those are key pieces for them to become better football players and good young men,” defensive coordinator Justin Wisdom said.
With the team graduating a big senior class last year, the new set of seniors look to step up in a bigger role.
“We had some great senior leadership last year and a big focus of mine is to really step up with our senior group and fill that role,” senior running back Josh Harvath said.
Many seniors have looked to focus on filling the new leader role.
“Each year the seniors are the leaders and last year’s group led by example in every way you can think of, so now it’s our turn to lead,” senior quarterback Ryan Fajen said.
Along with that, the devastating 13-15 loss against Lamar in the district championship to end last year’s season has motivated players and coaches.
“Every year we look to build off the previous year’s success,” head coach Ryan Boyer said.
There are six returning offense starters, and five returning defensive starters. While also adding a move-in junior that has taken on a varsity spot.
“We are losing a lot of talent, but we also gained a tremendous amount,” senior tight end and linebacker Brennen Slavens said.
In the summer, the team welcomed a new face to the Wildcat family and culture. Recently, the team gained an offensive asset from Sedalia who is very familiar with varsity sports. “I came to Warsaw because I always thought they had a good football program with a winning record. The team has been very welcoming with a good atmosphere to be around too, with a great culture,” junior tight end Ian Jackson said.
“Successful thinking and confident kids is something that can be instilled into programs. It doesn’t just happen and it has to be worked on every day, month, year etc. I really enjoy coaching with like minded coaches and being able to help kids become like minded student athletes. It’s not for the faint of heart and it takes consistent discipline for it to recur year after year,” Wisdom said.
Instead of referring to “rebuilding” the new varsity roster, athletes and coaches have been focusing on reloading their varsity team. Sophomore Brett Howe has looked to make an impact on the defensive line this year.
“This year has been off to a good start, I look forward to getting better everyday and doing whatever the team needs me to do,” Howe said.
Sophomore Brecken Brewster made many appearances last season as a freshman, but is now contributing on both sides of the ball this season.
“My goals are to be better than last year and to win a district title, all while getting to learn from this senior group and having them as mentors and friends,” sophomore outside linebacker and running back Brewster said.
To go with the young talent of the team, freshman Jet Fluty has filled the role of starting kicker.
“I 100% feel the pressure of being young on varsity, but knowing I have a very supportive team behind me and on the field with me definitely helps,” Fluty said.
Overall, the team and coaches look to achieve new goals this season, while also focusing on keeping the culture of Wildcat Football strong.
“I am looking forward to continuing to watch our team grow as a family,” Boyer said.
