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Football
Wyoming High School
Guide
2022
BEWARE OF THE BRONCS
Sheridan, Cody ready to defend title turf
MING SPORT
YO S
W
RE E
Coverage of EVERY TEAM in the State!
VIE W G UID
P
State Champs
1A/6-MAn JV Only encamPment tigeRs Page 59 Mascot: Tigers
Sheridan
Division: NA; will play JV
CONTENTS:
CONTENTS:
4AFootball
Football
Tigers revive program six-man
Broncsschedule
Colors: Red and black
Coach: Kegan Willford,
4A Encampment's football history is limited to only 2021
first year atState Playoffs
Encampment
Pages
Pages 3-10 3-11 five seasons – a pair of six-man seasons in 1956
“This group of boys really
and 1957 and three seasons of eight-man and nine- 2018 Record: No team
3AFootball
3A Football 4AKeyChampionship
Pages
man play from 1988-90. want to have their own Players
Pages 11-20 12-21 Since the end of the program, Encampment Sheridan 45, Rock Springs 27
OL/DL: Kelton Koehn, Jr.
2A Football
2A Football
players who wanted to play football had to go to
Saratoga, 20 miles up the road.
identity.” RB/WR: Kagan Gilbert, Jr.
Pages
Pages 21-33 22-32 For years, that co-op agreement worked for both
~ Coach Kegan Willford RB: Koye Semifinals
Gilbert, Soph.
1A/9-Man Football schools. However, this year, Encampment struck Sheridan 38, Natrona 24
RB: Dalton Peterson, Jr.
1A/11-Man Football out on its own to start a six-man football program. Rock Springs 55, Cheyenne East 34
Pages 33-43 The change didn't come from coaches or com-
Pages 34-43
1A/6-Man Football munity members or parents.
and move to a full varsity schedule in 2020 as part 2019 Schedule
of the Class 1A six-man classification. 8-30:
1A/6-Man
Pages Football44-51
"The motivation to start a program in Encamp-
Between 13 and 16 players will be out for the
at Quarterfinals
St. Stephens jam-
ment came directly from the students in our boree, TBA (Zero Week) Central 14
Pages 44-55 school," Willford said. "This group of boys really
team this fall, Willford said – a good showing for a Sheridan 48, Cheyenne
want to have their own identity for football and
program in its infancy. Only two of those are sen- 9-7: at Meeteetse,
Natrona 17, Thunder 2 p.m. Basin 14
iors, setting up the program well for future success. 9-13: atSprings
Farson JV, TBA
have a lot of pride in representing their school. …
Junior Kelton Koehn might be the most experi- Rock 42, Kelly Walsh 14
Due to COVID-19 schedules for the (They) really feel like they have the numbers to 10-24:
Cheyenne vs. Cheyenne
East 31, East County 12
Campbell
ONLINE:
2022 season are subject to change. sustain a six-man team moving forward."
enced player the Tigers have. Last year, playing for
School board financial support for the program
Saratoga's six-man team, Koehn finished sixth in sophs, 4 p.m. (date uncertain)
Go to was initially tentative, but the board has agreed to
defensive points, notching 29 total tackles, a sack
and an interception.
Players
Three games haveto beenwatch
wyoming-football.com pay officials for home games, Willford said. Be-
Junior Dalton Peterson was also part of the added against Natrona's
yond that, the program has been supported through
to see an electronic fundraising, donations and Encampment's "E Club"
Saratoga program, but only as a freshman. That sophomore
Colsonand Coon,freshman Sheridan
year, he was the Panthers' No. 4 tackler, No. 2 re- teams,
Only the but dates,
second juniortimes and
who’s ever won
version of this magazine boosters.
ceiver with five catches for 52 yards, and No. 4 Wyoming’s Gatorade Player ofMore
the Year award
"Encampment is a very giving community and locations are not official.
ONLINE:
or request a link by
contacting us below.
takes great pride in the school and its programs,"
Willford said.
rusher with 21 carries for 51 yards.
Junior Kagan Gilbert was also part of Saratoga's Coon
is back for the defending state champions.
games
(1,648will be added
rushing yards,if22 possi-
TDs, 69 tackles)
Colson Coon returns
team as a freshman, finishing seventh on the team hasble during
already the season
proven he can take the focus of
The Tigers' plan is to play sub-varsity this year
Go to in defensive points. opposing teams and still generate huge games.
Willford said senior Dayne Anderson and sopho-
wyoming-football.com more Koye Gilbert have also previously played,
CONTACTS:
to lead Sheridan attack
to see an electronic giving depth to the team. Garet Schlabs, Drew Jackson
version of this magazine Willford said one of the team's strengths is and Dom Kaszas,
Editors chemistry – the Tigers consistently have a competi- Cheyenne East.
or request
Chris Wooda link by tive basketball team and finished as the Class 1A Kaszas, Sheridan’s all-state receiver,
contacting us below. By Patrick Schmiedt runners-up
might in 2018.
look like they’veButgotthey lackinconsistent
it easy their seasonfoot- transferred to East during the summer,
wood@idahosports.com ball experience and need
willtobelearn the ins and outs of bolstering what was probably already 4A’s
Writers Four questions to answer
opener,
six-man
but the Indians
Cheyennefootball.
improved.
East at Natrona, Sept. 2. This 307-326-5336
top receiving corps. They combined for 129
"This is a great group of boys that are hardwork- catches and 1,967 yards, giving East three
Let’s not mess around — who’s gonna win it all game won’t be a make-or-break one — early 1702 S. Hwy 130 Saratoga
Patrick Schmiedt ing and committed," Willford said. "They are a
September game-breaking receivers.
this year? The three favorites seem clear, and it’s great groupones rarelywhile
to have are. But it will
trying be a akey
to start new pro- Join us on facebook!
CONTACTS:
pschmiedt@yahoo.com Sheridan, Cheyenne East and Natrona. Perhaps decider
gram." of how the top of 4A will shape up, and Ethan Brinkman, Cheyenne East
not coincidentally, these are the only three the loser here will have to chase the other the rest
East’s middle linebacker typically produces
Sales programs that have won 4A titles since 2009. of the season.
Editors big numbers no matter who’s there, and
Bree
ChrisFincham
Wood
1A/6-M
Why those West
An three
Experience, mostly. Sheridan gained a lot of
R
ahead of the others? iveRside Thunder R ebels Basin at Rock Springs, Sept. 2. Class
4A’s dark horse might emerge right here. Both
Coach:led
Brinkman Sam
ClassBuck,
4A in5th year with 122.
tackles
proapproval@cnsposters.com East’s defense is deep, but Brinkman is the
wood@idahosports.com love as the defending champion and has enough teams have earned big expectations, but similarly 2018 Record:
undisputed leader on 4-4,thatineligible
side of the ball.
REBELS, Cont.
players returning it'sEast,
to start near the top. going to be a both
lot better this Miller added a team-high
teams have to overcome big graduation
The 2019 Wyoming High School
year,"
though, might return more experience than any Buck said.
departures.
five interceptions and six pass for playoffs
Writers gave
otherRiverside
4A team.aMeanwhile,
diverse pass- Natrona is Boreen
loaded and Clutter led the break-ups, while Ellis Rudd, Keagan Bartlett,
Football Guide is produced by Cheyenne East at Sheridan, Sept. 30. Sheridan Cheyenne Central
Patrick Schmiedt
Commercial Newspaper Service,
ingwith seniors.
attack. defense last year, with Boreen O'Roake and Zapata also
pschmiedt@yahoo.com And said
Buck the others
he has—three
are they leading the team gets
in the conversation
play-
bothtackles
in solo East and Central
playedatsignificant
home this season,
minutes on Bartlett broke
Key Players both rushing and
1,000 yards
Inc. Contents may not be repro- Some sacks (four),a little
(20),Basin, fumblequirk
re-in the schedule
defense.that will be a nice passing last season, and did so on a team that
ersatheall?
trusts at are. In particular, Thunder
quarterback.
duced without permission. are all (seven) boost to the Broncs — if theythat
can diversity
take advantage
of expe- finished 2-8. WithRyanimproved
Rock
Buck Springs
also Cheyenne Centralcoveries
and running
said the and blocked With RB/WR/DB: Vigil,players
Sr. around
Sales legitcould
game threats. However,
have a bigger Thunder
effect Basin and(five),
kicks of
Rock and Clutter home field. rience, Buck said he wants to him, this year could be huge.
Bree Fincham onSprings will both
the Rebels' untestedthe RebelsPredicted
rely on young andfronting
fortunes. in total order
add a few new of wrinkles.
finish RB/WR/DB: Ryan Miller, Jr.
proapproval@cnsposters.com
players, while Central
"(The running game)will washave thetackles
experience
(67) and tackles for loss
Cheyenne "We're
East; Sheridan; definitely
Natrona; going to be Carter McBurnett, Rock Springs
Cheyenne
but is
solid, it coming
was good,off abut
messy 2-8 season.
I think (16). Central; Thunder Basin; able Rock
to doSprings;
a lot moreCampbell RB/LB: Tate
this year," McBurnett Clutter,
doesn’t haveSoph.
any eye-popping
What else should we watch for this season? he said. "The understanding of defensive statistics (24 tackles last season), but
County; Kelly Walsh; Laramie; Cheyenne South.
The 2022 Wyoming High School A potential offensive explosion. Of the 10 our offense and defense is theover
seniorthat
lineman
middle is the Tigers’
school only returning
mental-
Football Guide is produced by returning first-team all-state players in Class 4A, Way-too-early going totitle game
be completely differ- all-state player and has seen
ity, and that's tough. That's a significant
Commercial Newspaper Service, eight of them are returning to spots on offense. scoreent, prediction
because (last year) we were minutes since his freshman year. McBurnett
jump."
Inexperience on defense might give offenses a doesn’t
Inc. Contents may not be really working
Cheyenne East 33, Sheridan 28. If anyone iswith a crew With aany
have
yeareye-popping defensive
to work through
boost, at least early. statistics (24 tackles last season), but the senior
reproduced without permission.
Four key games
going to break up the
champions, they’re going
where
scratch…
we were
triumvirate starting
of typical
The corehave
to eventually
4Afrom
of our
that jump, the Rebels will have
lineman is the Tigers’ only returning all-state
a roster more built for varsity
group, (they) kind of had to get player and has seen significant minutes since
Cheyenne Central at Sheridan, Aug. 26. On to through one, or two, or three of them in the games
his freshman in 2019.
year.
paper, the defending champs from up north playoffs.
Page 4 Campbell County Camels 4A 4A Cheyenne Central Indians Page 5
Camels looking for fresh start Indians have returning talent
With only two starters returning on both offense and defense, six all-conference selections, so “it’s an open opportunity for kids to One statistic can’t define a excited to see that come out.” carries for 252 yards, while
Campbell County’s prospects for 2022 could be looked at with move into different positions,” Rose said. season – but one from Cheyenne The sentiment makes sense junior Zecha King added 29
Mascot: Camels pessimism. Senior Ian Carter was the Camel’s No. 2 rusher last season, Central’s 2021 season can come when looking at Central’s roster carries for 146 yards.
But Camels coach Andrew Rose doesn’t have time for that. finishing with 564 yards on 107 carries, including five touchdowns.
Division: Class 4A Instead, he’s looking at all the opportunities the Camels have to step Carter also finished with 19 tackles and led the team with two close. for this year. The Indians return Senior Chris Benboe was an
Colors: Purple and yellow into new roles, embrace new challenges and continue to grow as a interceptions and tied for the team lead with six pass break-ups. Cheyenne Central went 0-4 four first-team all-conference all-conference choice and will
program. Rose said Carter will help show other players how to play “fast Mascot: Indians
in one-score games last year, choices, including senior all-state help boost the offensive line
Moreover, competition for starting spots is a good thing. a constant frustration in a 2-8 choice Keagan Bartlett, as well along with senior Augie Lain and Division: Class 4A
Coach: Andrew Rose, “If we have two guys fighting for a position, you’re not out
anything,” Rose said. “It’s a tough decision as a coach, but those are season. as seven starters on defense and junior Colton Prindle. Colors: Red and black
fourth year at Campbell
the decisions we want. Partly attributable to a young six on offense. The Indians also return four of
County “ … That’s what we’re really driving home on those competition group trying to figure out how Bartlett was one of the top their top five players in defensive
positions. We want that same thought process, ‘Well, if I don’t get (307) 682-5153 to win at the varsity level, partly dual-threat quarterbacks in the points. Coach: Mike Apodaca,
this position, where’s another spot where I can help my team?’ If
2021 Record: 4-6, lost to we can get a full buy-in on that idea, we’re going to be a dangerous attributable to establishing state last year, cracking the Senior Richard Prescott is fifth year at Cheyenne
Cheyenne East in state team.” the right mentality, and partly 1,000-yard mark in both rushing Central’s top returning tackler.
Although every position has such challenges, nowhere is it as 5005 Rourke Avenue Central
quarterfinals attributable to plain-old bad luck, (1,227 yards) and passing (1,027 He was second for the Indians
evident as at quarterback. Sophomore Mason Drube and junior Gillette, WY 82717
the Indians’ lack of success in yards). He ran for 15 touchdowns last year with 67 tackles and also 2021 Record: 2-8, lost
Aidan Dorr shared quarterbacking duties last year, Drube taking the
bulk of the snaps. He completed 37 of 96 passes for 810 yards, with close games will hopefully be a and threw for nine more. notched five pass deflections and to Sheridan in state
Key Players
Dorr adding 21 completions for 433 yards.and without reservations and with confidence.” one-year aberration, coach Mike “His comfort level with us and two interceptions.
C/DT: Cooper Stevens, Sr. Opportunities at other positions have also ratcheted up the
On a defense that graduated its top four players in defensive quarterfinals
Apodaca said. our comfort level with him is Junior Chase Talich was third
QB/SS: Aidan Dorr, Jr. competition level. The Camels graduated all three all-state and all
points and its top six tacklers, that will be key. He’s already seeing proof that worlds apart from where it was on the team with 47 tackles, also
QB/LB: Mason Drube, Soph. “We need guys that are going to be physical,
want to step up and play the game physically it will be. a year ago,” Apodaca said. “ … picking up a pair of interceptions,
2022 Schedule
RB/CB: Ian Carter, Sr. without hesitation and set that tone,” Rose said. “When kids are invested … Now that he’s comfortable, that while Lobatos had 46 tackles and
Junior Levi Palmer is the top returning tackler, I really do think they’re able to next step of leadership starts to Prindle contributed 31. 8-26: at Sheridan, 6 p.m.
with 33 last season. Senior Jeff Pelton added 21. find something different late in come out.” Bartlett (18 tackles), King (12),
2022 Schedule Offensively, Pelton finished second last season 9-2: vs. Kelly Walsh, 6 p.m.
8-26: at Cheyenne East, 6 p.m. on the team in receiving yards with 260, doing games,” he said. “And I think Senior Jackson Whitworth led junior Mason Counter (11) and
9-9: vs. Natrona, 6 p.m.
9-2: at Laramie, 6 p.m. so on just seven catches (37.1 yards per catch). this group has that, and I’m the Indians in all major receiving Porwoll (10) also finished with
He is the only one of Campbell County’s top six categories with 22 catches for double-digit tackles. 9-16: at Thunder Basin, 6 p.m.
9-9: vs. Rock Springs, 6 p.m. receivers to come back this year. 262 yards and five touchdowns. Central had a young defense 9-23: at Laramie, 6 p.m.
9-16: at Cheyenne South, 6 p.m. Senior Cooper Stevens returns as a starter at Key Players
IV Sedation | TMJ-Migraine Therapy center. Senior Ethan Reisdorfer was last year, and Apodaca said
9-23: vs. Kelly Walsh, 6 p.m. 9-30: vs. Cheyenne South, 6 p.m.
Invisalign | Sleep Apnea | Oral Surgery Rose said several seniors, including wide QB/DE: Keagan Bartlett, Sr. fourth in receiving yards, “it showed at times. I thought
9-30: at Thunder Basin, 7 p.m. General Dentistry | Dental Implants receiver/defensive backs Rylan Kirkpatrick managing 111 on eight catches, we were really competitive 10-7: at Cheyenne East, 6 p.m.
and Evan Vandom and fullback/defensive end RB/LB: Jaxon Lobatos, Sr.
10-7: vs. Natrona, 6 p.m. 307.686.1567 Harland Washburn have also emerged as leaders. WR/DB: Richard Prescott, Sr.
while junior Miles Porwoll added throughout the year. 10-14: at Campbell County, 6 p.m.
10-14: vs. Cheyenne Central, 6 p.m. The Camels also planned on taking 83 players 12 catches for 109 yards. “ … We expect that to pay off
Dr. Clint Lee D.D.S. | Dr. Steve Nichols D.D.S. to a team camp this summer – over 20 more than Senior Jaxon Lobatos was and hopefully allows you to get a 10-21: vs. Rock Springs, 6 p.m.
10-21: at Sheridan, 7 p.m. OL/DL: Chris Benboe, Sr.
Professional Service, Personalized Care. last season. second for Central with 42 little bit quicker start.”
starters need to mesh with the new while Eldridge had 59 tackles
4A Cheyenne East Thunderbirds CHEYENNE EAST
CHEYENNE EAST CONTINUED- starters “and make the other guys
THUNDERBIRDS and Culver had 51 tackles and
around them successful. They love
T-Birds banking on experience
three blocked kicks.
for 213 yards.
that challenge.” “That linebacking crew, were
Key Players Kaszas added 29 catches for 454
The defense also has loads of pretty excited about,” Goff said.
WR/CB: Garet Schlabs, Sr. yards and eight TDs at Sheridan.
experience, as the Thunderbirds Other defensive contributors
Gaining experience is different from having it. year, while senior Jakob Culver and junior Drew OL/DL: Trevor Eldridge, Sr. “We want everyone to be a
return four of their top five tacklers included juniors Colby Olson
Cheyenne East coach Chad Goff said the Jackson were all-conference picks. OL/DL: Seth Scott, Sr. factor for us,” Goff said. “We
from last year. and Caleb Ruff (27 tackles each)
playing time that went to underclassmen last year In addition, East picks up senior transfer RB/ILB: Ethan Brinkman, Sr. don’t want you to be able to just
Brinkman was, by far, East’s and Schlabs (15 tackles, three
under frustrating or uncertain circumstances will Dominic Kaszas, who was an all-state wide Mascot: Thunderbirds focus on one guy.”
top tackler in 2021, finishing with interceptions, seven pass break-
ultimately be good for the 2022 team. receiver at Sheridan last season. Division: Class 4A 2022 Schedule Junior Cam Hayes is East’s top
122 – almost double up any other ups).
“We ended up playing some younger kids, and I Schlabs was the top target in the passing game Colors: Blue and silver 8-26: vs. Campbell County, 6 p.m. returning passer and top returning
player. He led the Thunderbirds
think bringing those kids back with that experience last season, catching 71 passes for 972 yards and rusher. He completed 59 of 96
9-2: at Natrona, 7 p.m. with 45 solo tackles and 69 assists
gives us an opportunity to have great leadership 17 touchdowns. His numbers were tops among all Coach: Chad Goff, 9-9: at Thunder Basin, 6 p.m.
passes for 831 yards and nine
and also had seven tackles for loss. MING SPORT
and just to be ready for the varsity game,” Goff receivers in Class 4A last season. touchdowns in extended duty last YO S
said. However, East actually returns its top three
17th year at Cheyenne 9-16: vs. Laramie, 6 p.m.
season; he also had 52 carries for
Goff said Brinkman was moved W
East 9-23: at Rock Springs, 6 p.m. from outside to inside linebacker
East can depend on three returning all-state receivers in terms of yards from last year. Jackson 217 yards to finish third for East
2021 Record: 8-3, lost 9-30: at Sheridan, 6 p.m. to patrol both sidelines, not just
players, which is more than any other Class 4A added 29 catches for 541 yards, second for East in last season.
to Rock Springs in state 10-7: vs. Cheyenne Central, 6 p.m. one – something he did well last
team. both categories, while Culver notched 15 catches Eldridge and senior Seth Scott
semifinals 10-14: at Cheyenne South, 6 p.m. year. RE E
Seniors Ethan Brinkman, Trevor Eldridge return as starters on the offensive VIE W G UID
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CONTINUED NEXT PAGE 10-21: vs. Kelly Walsh, 6 p.m. Jackson finished with 64 tackles
and Garet Schlabs were all-state performers last line, but Goff said the returning
and had a pair of interceptions,
Page 6 Cheyenne South Bison 4A 4A Kelly Walsh Trojans Page 7
Bison building from ground up Trojans have holes to fill
In his first season as Cheyenne with a team-high 54 tackles and Junior James Hushbeck The scenario facing the Kelly Walsh Trojans passing last year with 37 completions on 77
South’s head coach, Eli Moody tied for the team lead with four highlights the returners on the this season is not unusual. attempts for 444 yards and three touchdowns.
will be part coach, part salesman. tackles for loss. offensive line. Players with limited varsity experience He is also KW’s top returning rusher, carrying
With the Bison in the midst of Junior Aiden Weber added 36 Also back are senior twins will have to fulfill important roles, as only a 68 times for 215 yards to finish second on the
a 20-game losing streak across tackles, senior Robert Campbell Jalen and Santana Trujillo, who limited number of players will be back from team last year.
more than two seasons – and had 29 (including four for loss), sat out in 2021. They may not be 2021. At the same time, junior Eric Whitley also
the closest of those losses by senior Matt Rivera had 25, senior alone. Mascot: Trojans
Mascot: Bison As usual, though, coach Aaron Makelky started three games at quarterback, finishing
23 points – Moody has to sell Livante Yobech had 21 and “With the changing of the Division: Class 4A
potential players on a program senior Dylan Choate had 17. guard there’s some guys who are said he has faith that players who have had to the year with 23 carries for 154 yards.
Division: Class 4A Colors: Green and yellow
that is not a natural draw. Eight starters are back on deciding to come out or come wait to see varsity playing time will rise to the Makelky said both will see time under
Colors: Black and gold occasion once they have the opportunity. center, and “we will try to find ways to get
The spirit is willing. An offense. Junior Osayas Garcia back,” Moody said. “ … There’s Coach: Aaron Makelky,
assistant with the Bison last year, took over at quarterback last a lot of kids who when they came “We go through this cycle every year, so them both on the field at the same time.”
it’s nothing new,” he said. “We have a large The Trojans’ receiving corps was hit hard by fourth year at Kelly Walsh
Coach: Eli Moody, first year Moody wholeheartedly believes season and completed 53 of 146 to South who went to avoid the
South has potential to develop passes for 496 yards and four football team who are now re- program with about 120 players each season, graduation, though, as no anticipated returner 2021 Record: 3-7, lost
at Cheyenne South to Rock Springs in state
into a consistently competitive touchdowns. evaluating that.” so we will never return a big group of starters. had more than one catch last season.
2021 Record: 0-9, did not Class 4A program. Weber, with 14 catches for 146 On top of that, Moody said quarterfinals
We have some hungry young guys who have KW’s defense was also hit by graduation
qualify for playoffs “It definitely could be a yards – good for second on the the Bison should have one of been working to get ready for the season. but does return four players who started in
diamond in the rough,” he said. team last year – is South’s top their biggest freshman classes They will find a way on to the field or at least 2021. One of those – senior Erich Hulshizer – Key Players
“There’s a lot of great kids down returning receiver. in several years, giving the team QB: Gibson Sasser, Sr.
MING SPORT
Key Players push the guys ahead of them to get better was the team’s top tackler a year ago.
here, a lot of great community Rivera was third for the Bison more depth. C: Chris Pickering, Sr.
QB: Osayas Garcia, Jr. support. It hasn’t been the last year in rushing, carrying 22 “I hope we can strive to make through competition.”
YO
The offensive line will be the most
S
Hulshizer, KW’s only returning all-
state or all-conference selection, led the SS: Erich Hulshizer, Sr.
OL/TE/DL: Dylan Choate, Sr.
LB: Robert Campbell, Sr.
success on the field that they’ve
wanted, but I think there’s some
times for 152 yards, and added
four catches for 41 yards.
it a little more competitive across
the board,” Moody said. W
experienced group coming back from last Trojans’ defense with 69 tackles, including OT: Asher Vail, Sr.
great potential.” year’s 3-7 team, as seniors Chris Pickering 33 solo tackles. He also led KW with two
OL/DL: James Hushbeck, Jr. and Asher Vail both return as starters and interceptions and nine pass deflections. 2022 Schedule
The restructuring of the Bison
begins with the playbook. The junior Kason Adsit saw lots of time in 2021. “We expect his role as our most productive 8-26: vs. Rock Springs, 6 p.m.
9-2: at Cheyenne Central, 6 p.m.
“We have a lot of
veer offense is out; in is a two- Makelky said the two senior returners will defensive player to continue,” Makelky said.
2022 Schedule back approach that focuses more 9-9: vs. Cheyenne South, 6 p.m.
have to do more than just match their output “We expect the vocal leadership role since
8-26: at Thunder Basin, 6 p.m. on balance. from a year ago, though. he will be our most experienced defensive 9-16: vs. Natrona, 6 p.m.
RE E
excitement for the
9-2: vs. Sheridan, 6 p.m. “Kids are buying into the new “We will need both of them to step up and player.” 9-23: at Campbell County, 6 p.m.
VIE W G UID
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playbooks and some of them 9-30: at Laramie, 6 p.m.
9-9: at Kelly Walsh, 6 p.m. not only be productive, but also mentor some Another key returner on defense is senior
are buying into new positions,” 10-7: vs. Sheridan, 7 p.m.
9-16: vs. Campbell County, 6 p.m. younger guys who will be joining their varsity lineman Derek Burt, who had 28 tackles last
future at the moment...”
Moody said. “ … (We have) a 10-14: vs. Thunder Basin, 6 p.m.
lot of excitement for the future unit with no real experience,” Makelky said. year.
9-23: at Natrona, 6 p.m. 10-21: at Cheyenne East, 6 p.m.
at the moment, and we have a lot Senior Gibson Sasser led the Trojans in
9-30: at Cheyenne Central, 6 p.m.
of guys that have a lot of varsity
10-7: vs. Rock Springs, 6 p.m. game time that are still around.”
10-14: vs. Cheyenne East, 6 p.m.
10-21: at Laramie, 6 p.m.
The defense highlights that
experience, where South retains
seven of its top 11 tacklers.
~Coach Eli Moody
Junior Noah Haggberg finished
OMING SPORT
Y S
W
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Page 8 Laramie Plainsmen 4A 4A Rock Springs Tigers Page 9
Plainsmen relying on ground game Tigers ready for next step
The offensive priority for approach centers on the strength Kyler Roberts, Sam Keith and Each of the past three years, The Tigers graduated their top rusher. Senior Saben Carlsen (14
Laramie this season will be of the offensive line, where Porter Trabing and senior Mike Rock Springs has finished with five rushers, top three receivers, carries, 111 yards) also broke
simple: Run the ball better than seniors Abe Bangoura, Chris Jaskolski will compete for time. Mascot: Tigers
a better record than it had the their quarterback and four triple-digit yards last year.
last season. Gonzales and Jessie Cruz will However, outside of Malone, previous season. out of five offensive linemen; Junior Michael Faigl, slated Division: Class 4A
Mascot: Plainsmen Laramie finished last in Class help set the pace. no returning player broke into
Division: Class 4A Last year’s 10-2 and state on defense, just two of Rock to be the quarterback, completed Colors: Black and orange
4A last season with 75 rushing “The offensive line is the double-digit rushing yards for the runner-up finish was the Tigers’ Springs’ top 13 tacklers will four passes for 34 yards last year
Colors: Maroon and yellow yards per game, nearly 40 yards whole key to everything Plainsmen last year.
per game behind any other 4A offensively,” Ronga said. “Any The Plainsmen’s defense best season since 2002. return, and none of the top five. and is the only returner who
team. attempt to pass the ball, any gradated its top two tacklers but Repeating that run will be Senior lineman Carter attempted a pass last year. Coach: Mark Lenhardt,
Coach: Paul Ronga,
Second-year coach Paul attempt to run the ball, any return its next three in Branch, difficult with a small senior McBurnett is the only one of Carlsen was fourth for the
second year at Laramie fourth year at Rock Springs
Ronga said a primary offseason attempt to get the ball to any Calderon and Sanchez, and six of class, but coach Mark Lenhardt eight all-state choices from Tigers in receiving yards last
2021 Record: 1-8, did not
emphasis was addressing that of the skill players is on the its top 11 in total. said he’s optimistic about Rock Springs to return this year. year, notching 10 catches for 2021 Record: 10-2,
qualify for playoffs weakness, particularly in the offensive line.” Branch had 33 tackles last building another state contender McBurnett, a varsity 154 yards. He is the only one
weight room, with the ancillary Junior Ben Malone returns year, Calderon 31 and Sanchez by, in part, relying on a large contributor since his freshman of Rock Springs’ top seven lost to Sheridan in state
Key Players motivation of committing to at quarterback and will be 30. Sanchez added four tackles and talented junior class. year, will be key, Lenhardt said. receivers to return this fall, as championship
OL/DL: Abe Bangoura, Sr. improving their on-field product Laramie’s top returning rusher, for loss, tops among returners, With only about nine or 10 “To play on the interior as a no other receiver broke 25 yards
WR/CB: Adrien Calderon, Sr. against the state’s largest football as well. Malone completed 123 while Branch led the team with seniors expected on the roster, freshman just shows what kind last season.
WR/LB: Jeremy Sanchez, Sr. programs. of 210 passes for 1,319 yards and two interceptions.
that will be a necessity. of maturity he has,” Lenhardt Carlsen, who had 36 tackles Key Players
WR/S: Mason Branch, Sr. “We’ve worked hard all nine touchdowns and ran 117 Bangoura added 19 tackles,
offseason, including the season times for 184 yards and a team- Zepeda had 17 and Trabing “We’ll be really, really, said. “He’s basically like a and four pass deflections, had
young, but I really like our coach on the field. Our team more tackles last year than any OL/DL: Carter McBurnett, Sr.
before when I was here, with high five touchdowns. added 15.
2022 Schedule changing the culture and the The receiving corps is deep. Ronga said he is encouraged current junior class,” Lenhardt changes quite a bit if he’s not other returner. WR/DB: Saben Carlsen, Sr.
8-26: vs. Natrona, 6 p.m. mindset, and we are embracing Senior Adrien Calderon was by a solid group of linebackers, said. “(It) is a good group of out there.” McBurnett had 24 tackles,
9-2: vs. Campbell County, 6 p.m. the culture change,” Ronga said. second for Laramie with 32 including Sanchez, Roberts, players… but they’re going to The exodus leaves junior junior Goodness Okere added WR/DE: Dalton Thomas, Sr.
9-9: at Sheridan, 6 p.m. “ … The biggest difference is catches for 396 yards and three Keith, McIntyre and Jaskolski. have to grow up in a hurry if Andre Graves (19 carries, 150 22 and senior Trenton Butcher QB: Michael Faigl, Jr.
9-16: at Cheyenne East, 6 p.m. the weight room. The weight touchdowns last season. The Plainsmen will rearrange we’re going to be good.” yards) as the leading returning had 21.
9-23: vs. Cheyenne Central, 6 p.m. room program was lacking in Senior Mason Branch wasn’t their defensive scheme this However, the Tigers do have
participation and commitment. far behind, with 19 catches for year to take advantage of their a blueprint for building success, 2022 Schedule
9-30: vs. Kelly Walsh, 6 p.m. We’ve hired a strength coach 315 yards and three touchdowns abilities at that position.
10-7: at Thunder Basin, 6 p.m. and this year’s team will likely
(Jake Morrison) and we believe as well. Seniors Jeremy Sanchez, “That seems to be a strong 8-26: at Kelly Walsh, 6 p.m.
10-14: at Rock Springs, 6 p.m. we’ve flipped that switch for the Mahlon Morris and Reese point of our team,” Ronga said. look different at the end of the
10-21: vs. Cheyenne South, 6 p.m. better.” McIntyre will add depth. season than at the beginning. 9-2: vs. Thunder Basin, 6 p.m.
Ronga said the entire offensive In the backfield, juniors “I’m kind of hoping we can
9-9: at Campbell County, 6 p.m.
take that same kind of path with
our junior group and our senior 9-16: vs. Sheridan, 6 p.m.
Natrona Mustangs 4A and sophomore classes can chip
9-23: vs. Cheyenne East, 6 p.m.
in as needed,” Lenhardt said. “
… The problem is trying to find 9-30: at Natrona, 6 p.m.
Mustangs bank on mental approach enough depth. Any time you
have a class that’s small, you’ve
10-7: at Cheyenne South, 6 p.m.
208-873-3700
got to make up for it in other 10-14: vs. Laramie, 6 p.m.
Now in his 32nd year as the head football got to facilitate that, and that’s the challenge of places, and hopefully we can
coach at Natrona, Steve Harshman used to say every coach. 10-21: at Cheyenne Central, 6 p.m.
develop some depth.”
90% of football is from the neck up. “That’s the tough thing about football, is that
“The more I’ve been doing this, I think it’s everybody needs everybody to survive… no one
98%,” he said. wins alone.” NATRONA CONTINUED- catches for 109 yards. Natrona Mustangs
Mascot: Mustangs
That reliance on attitude, intelligence and The Mustangs’ defense returns several players and Jared Markwardt as important cogs as the Spencer led Natrona’s rushing game with 99 2022 Schedule
Division: Class 4A
focus will, as usual, be part of the Mustangs’ who had key roles last year, although four of the experienced players on the offensive line. carries for 653 yards and four touchdowns, while
Colors: Black and orange 8-26: at Laramie, 6 p.m.
approach. top five players in defensive points graduated. “The key to all of this is having solid Powell added 89 carries for 529 yards and 11
With it, the Mustangs are consistent Senior Mason Weickum was fourth for linemen,” he said. scores to finish second. 9-2: vs. Cheyenne East, 7 p.m.
Coach: Steve Harshman,
32nd year at Natrona contenders, and with several contributors from Natrona with 62 tackles, while senior Wyatt Four of the six Natrona receivers who reached Powell also played some spot duty at
last year’s 7-4 and Class 4A playoff semifinal Powell was right behind with 61 tackles, 9-9: at Cheyenne Central, 6 p.m.
2021 Record: 7-4, lost to triple-digit receiving yards are back. quarterback, throwing for 192 yards, and will
Sheridan in state semifinals team back – including five first-team all- including a team-high seven tackles for loss. Senior Breckin McClintock, Natrona’s only assume full control of that position this fall, 9-16: at Kelly Walsh, 6 p.m.
conference players, the most in 4A – that should Senior Cody Crawford added 44 tackles and returning first-team all-state choice, was one Harshman said.
be the case again this year. two sacks, while senior Kayden Pharr had 21 of the top receivers in 4A last year, leading 9-23: vs. Cheyenne South, 6 p.m.
Key Players Regardless, Harshman said his players’ mental
TE/DE: Kayden Pharr, Sr. Harshman said he will rely on a group of tackles and six tackles for loss. Natrona with 34 catches for 565 yards and four focus will still carry the season. 9-30: vs. Rock Springs, 6 p.m.
WR/DB: Breckin McClintock, Sr. about 26 seniors to provide leadership and team- Offensively, Natrona returns numerous touchdowns. “We’ve never talked about winning,” he said.
OL/DL: Cody Crawford, Sr. building. contributors, but Harshman emphasized Pharr was fourth on the team with 212 10-7: at Campbell County, 6 p.m.
“We’re really focused on one day at a time and
QB/LB: Wyatt Powell, Sr. “That’s more important than any talent, and Crawford, Pharr and seniors Colby Harlan receiving yards and was third with 18 catches. making sure our mind’s right and our effort’s 10-14: vs. Sheridan, 6 p.m.
that’s the hardest part of this,” he said. “They’ve Junior Preston Hytrek added 14 catches for 206 great, and that’s a constant challenge to be
got to make themselves come together, but we’ve CONTINUED NEXT PAGE - 10-21: vs. Thunder Basin, 6 p.m.
yards, while senior Luke Spencer had seven working at it.”
Page 10 Sheridan Broncs 4A 4A Thunder Basin Bolts Page 11 page 4 Campbell
Coon leading Broncs’ attack again ‘Bolts building on momentum Rose ascen
Everyone in Class 4A already knows the name Mowry said seniors Rater Tomlinson, Deedan After five seasons, Trent Pikula, the only head Senior Nic Black was second on the team last During two years of winless footbal
Colson Coon. Kirschner and Chance Larson will be important coach Thunder Basin’s football team has ever had, year with 146 yards on 32 carries, including a pair Campbell County Camels became com
How well Sheridan does this season, though, pieces of the lines. said he sees the ways the program, and the school, of touchdowns. He’s the only returner who had With a limited number of upperclas
are creating their own unique identity. more than 25 rushingMascot: Camels
yards in 2021.
will require the rest of Class 4A to get to know Quarterback is open, but whoever takes that Mascot:players
Camels' ‘Bolts didn't have to work as
Mascot: Broncs names of some other Sheridan Broncs. spot will have a ton of options, as three of the “We are still in the process of building tradition, On defense, sevenDivision:
of Thunder4A Basin’s top nine see playing time.
but at this point we really want our traditions to start tacklers graduated. Senior Dillon Glick, an all- Division: Class 4A
Consequently, in 2018 Campbell Co
Division: Class 4A The defending 4A champions return Coon, Broncs’ top four receivers are back.
with being a team who plays for each other, a team
Colors: Purple and gold
conference choice, led the ‘Bolts in defensive points 0-9 for a second consecutive season an
an all-state running back/linebacker who was Coon was second with 18 catches for 305 Colors: Blue and silver
Colors: Blue and yellow the second junior ever selected as the Gatorade yards and four touchdowns, senior Dane Steel who is academically strong, a team that plays with Coach:
and was No. 2 in tackles Andrew
with 75. His 12Rose,
tacklesfirst
for losing streak balloon to 19 games.
Wyoming Player of the Year. had 14 catches for 245 yards and four TDs, passion and effort, and a team that wins games by loss were tied for theyear
team at Gillette
lead. However, as the program prepares f
playing football together,” Pikula said. Senior Logan Loftus wasRecord:
fourth on 0-9,
the team with a full group of seniors for the first
The 4A offensive player of the year carried and senior Mathew Ketner was fourth with 13 2018 did with
not Coach: Trent Pikula,
three years and new expectations, that
Coach: Jeff Mowry, for 1,648 yards on 215 carries, notching 22 catches for 199 yards and a score. This year’s team will be young but will still be in 64 tackles and led the squad with five sacks.
position for the playoffs, something the program has qualify for playoffs
Together, Pikula said, the pair of linebackers will sixth year
cency at Thunder
is dissipating, Basin head co
incoming
fifth year at Sheridan touchdowns, and also finished third for the Behind Coon in the backfield, junior Nahir drew Rose said.
never missed. lead a strong front seven. 2021 Record: 6-4,
Broncs with 69 tackles, including three sacks, Aguirre added 19 carries for 184 yards and three
Although senior lineman Jayden Luciano is the “Those two will make it hard Key Players
for teams to run the "I have demanded just as much and
2021 Record: 11-1, beat and also had two interceptions and a fumble touchdowns, and Ketner added 104 rushing yards lost
moretooutNatrona in state
team’s only returning all-state choice, Pikula said RB/LB: Vijay Pitter, Sr. of players," Rose said. "It has
Rock Springs in state recovery. on just four carries. Luciano is stronger than last year and will help lead to where some are not pleased because
To finish, he ran for more than 200 yards in Only three of Sheridan’s top nine players in LB: Hunter Kramer, Jr. quarterfinals
able to get away with quite a bit. Now
championship a line that’s young, “but they are very athletic and
each of Sheridan’s last four games. defensive points are back. will be one of our best position groups.” LB: Dawsen Hayden, Sr. pears) that I am shaking things up a litt
“He was clutch, performed in every game and Along with Coon, Steel had 60 tackles, five Senior Kayden LaFramboise was the ‘Bolts’ No. OG/DE: Colter Rankin, Jr. when inKey all reality,
Players this is right along th
he was tough,” Sheridan coach Jeff Mowry said. pass deflections and two interceptions, while 2 receiver last year with 32 catches for 506 yards; (307) 682-5153 for successful teams in 4A football."
Key Players WR/DB: Kayden
“ … (But) he’s not going to surprise anybody so Ketner had 51 tackles and three pass deflections. he also led the team with seven touchdown catches. 2019 Schedule The team
offense and
returns eight to 10 starters
defense and lost
RB/LB: Colson Coon, Sr. we’ve got to figure out how we’re going to offset Junior Cody Dunham added 30 tackles and However, he is the only one of Thunder Basin’s top 8-30: at Cheyenne
5005 Rourke Avenue East, 7 p.m. LaFramboise, Sr. just six se
(that).” two interceptions, junior Jackson Lynn had 26 graduation. That added depth has creat
seven pass-catchers to come back this year. 9-6: at Natrona, 7 p.m. OT: Jayden Luciano, Sr.
OL/DL: Rater Tomlinson, Sr. The Broncs’ necessity for other players to step tackles and two interceptions, and Kirschner Also, Thunder Basin will need to find a new Gillette, WY 82717 competition in the offseason, helping t
9-13: vs. Laramie, 7 p.m. everyone better
TE/DE: Lane Catlin, Sr. and potentially shaking
WR/DB: Mathew Ketner, Sr. up is clear. Seven other all-conference players notched 21 tackles. quarterback. lineups the Camels will have this fall.
“We will have a nice battle for that spot, but 9-20:our
ball consistently against at defense,” Central,
CheyennePikula 7 p.m.
said.
are gone, six to graduation and one to transfer. Sheridan will also return three players who LB:"There
Dillon mayGlick,beSr.
some hurt feelings b
OL/DL: Dillan Bennett, Sr. regardless of who wins it, we will be inexperienced 9-27: vs. Thunder Basin,
LaFramboise added 36 tackles and leads all 7 p.m.
Mowry said the spots most in question for the suffered ACL injuries and did not play last others have stepped up to the plate and
Broncs are the offensive and defensive lines. season – senior Cael Gilbertson and juniors there,” he said. 10-4:deflections
returners with eight pass at Rock Springs, 6 p.m.
last year. Four themselves," Rose said. "For the first t
Senior Dillan Bennett rotated in at offensive Terran Grooms and Ryan Metcalf. others10-11: vs.Elie
– senior Sheridan, 7 p.m.
Churches (21 long time2022 weSchedule
have individuals on the te
2022 Schedule tackles), juniors
10-18: Caden Parker
vs. Cheyenne (12)6
South,
guard last season and will be a leader for the Mowry said the seniors especially will be 8-26: vs. CheyennetoSouth,
are in a position be true leaders, not
6 p.m.
8-26: vs. Cheyenne Central, 6 p.m. unit, but beyond that, Sheridan lacks much handed more responsibility. and Payton
p.m. Brown (11) and senior bally but by example."
experience. “Their role significantly changes from being a Colton10-25:
Vetterat(10) – had
Kelly double-digit
Walsh, 6 p.m. 9-2:On at Rock Springs,
offense, the 6entire
p.m. starting offen
9-2: at Cheyenne South, 6 p.m. tackles last season.
“We need some guys to grow up quickly,” guy on the team to being a leader on the team,”
Junior Kavontae Montgomery 9-9: vs. Cheyenne East,Dale
returns with seniors 6 p.m.Eliason, Ada
9-9: vs. Laramie, 6 p.m. Mowry said. he said. “They have to lead the charge.” Marcus Wilson and Austin Brandt and
will add depth on theNoffensive and 9-16:
Coltervs. Cheyenne Central, 6 p.m.
MI G SPORT
Rankin.
9-16: at Rock Springs, 6 p.m. defensive lines.
Y O S Senior Kameron
9-23: at Sheridan, Martinson led the C
7 p.m.
1865 Coffeen Avenue DespiteW the relative varsity with 428 rushing yards last year, while
9-23: vs. Thunder Basin, 7 p.m. 9-30:
inexperience, Pikula said he has faith Vijay vs. Campbell
Pitter addedCounty, 7 p.m.and three
172 yards
9-30: vs. Cheyenne East, 6 p.m.
Sheridan, WY 82801 IV Sedation | TMJ-Migraine Therapy in his players and coaches to be ready TDs.
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when it’s time. And a handful of receivers, includin
10-14:
Pharmacy 672-8908 “Our coaches do a great job Tanner atHilliard
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– who 6 p.m.
led the squad wi
10-14: at Natrona, 6 p.m. 307-673-9709 307.686.1567 bringing ourRyoung kids along andE catches for 180 yards
10-21: at Natrona, 6 p.m. and two scores –
E V I to play atUtheI D
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635 Broadway Avenue • Sheridan WY 82801 getting them ready EW G well.
10-21: vs. Campbell County, 7 p.m. On defense, the Camels get back the
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3A EAST Buffalo Bison Page 13
State Champs
Cody
Broncs Bison have numbers to compete
As a small Class 3A school, Buffalo often ends
up struggling with depth. 66 S. Main Street
This year, though, the Bison have a roster deep
2021 State Playoffs and experienced enough to reverse the usual
Buffalo WY
Mascot: Bison
expectations. 307-684-7682 Division: Class 3A
3A Championship The Bison return five all-conference players, Providing the Outdoor Enthusiast with the very best in equipment
Conference: East
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will top out above 50, a big number for Buffalo.
Semifinals Coach Rob Hammond said he will have more w w w . s port s lure. c om
Cody 24, Star Valley 17 than a dozen seniors, the most since Buffalo Coach: Rob Hammond,
reached the Class 2A title game in 2019. Buffalo also returns its No. 2 and 3 receivers in
Jackson 28, Douglas 20 senior Gage Horetski (13 catches, 144 yards) and 11th year at Buffalo
“It just makes things a little bit easier if you
Ihnat (13 catches, 135 yards).
have a big senior class,” Hammond said. “ …
Patterson will step in to start at quarterback, 2021 Record: 5-4, lost
Quarterfinals Our (installation of schemes) is a little further
and Hammond said it may take some time for a to Jackson in state
Cody 40, Worland 7 ahead, and kids understand what we’re trying to
do on both sides of the ball.” new signal-caller to develop chemistry with his
Star Valley 50, Lander 20 receivers. quarterfinals
Senior Blake Bell, Buffalo’s only all-state
Douglas 14, Powell 10 “That’s going to take a while to develop with
selection, was joined on the all-conference team
Jackson 75, Buffalo 27 Eli, but it’ll get there,” Hammond said.
by seniors Michael Ihnat, Dawson Palser and Key Players
Charlie Wonka and junior Eli Patterson. The running game will be less experienced.
Wonka, with 16 carries for 94 yards, is Buffalo’s
Bell was one of Class 3A’s top receivers last WR/MLB: Blake Bell, Sr.
Players to watch top returning rusher. Junior Will Hammond will
year and finished second in 3A in receiving yards TE/DE: Charlie Wonka, Sr.
also add backfield depth.
per game (92.1). He had 37 total catches for 829
Luke Talich, Cody The offensive line, where only two starters
yards – an average of 22.4 yards per catch – and WR/OLB: Dawson Palser, Sr.
The Broncs’ quarterback/safety can hurt return, is the Bison’s big question mark. Seniors
led Class 3A with 11 receiving touchdowns. WR/CB: Michael Ihnat, Sr.
defenses with both his arm and his legs, and “Teams are going to scheme to take himMarko Glassock, Brogan Byram and Daniel
Brown will be the leaders in that area, coach
away, but we’re still going to have to get a lot of
Cody has the horses
he’s one of Cody’s top defensive players, as
production out of him,” Hammond said. Hammond said. 2022 Schedule
well. He is the centerpiece of Cody’s three- The Buffalo defense returns four
peat attempt, and for the Broncs, that’s a good of its top six tacklers. 8-26: at Lovell, scrimmage, noon
for a third straight title
thing. Patterson led the Bison defense (Zero Week)
with 99 tackles. His 12 tackles for
Karson Ewing, Douglas loss led the team, and he also had 9-2: vs. Newcastle, 7 p.m.
Last year’s East Conference defensive two interceptions and tied for the 9-10: at Loveland Resurrection
By Patrick Schmiedt ton of uncertainty to a usually steady conference. team lead with four pass break-ups.
player of the year didn’t have huge numbers How it all shakes out, though, will be determined in Christian, Colo., 6 p.m.
Bell was third with 64 tackles
(39 tackles, 5 TFLs) but caused huge havoc Four questions to answer great measure by what happens between the Braves and Ihnat had 36; they tied for the
and Panthers.
9-16: vs. Cody, 6 p.m.
to opposing offenses. His role will grow on a Can anyone stop Cody from three-peating? Only team lead with three interceptions.
young defense. Cody. One of the most amazing statistics of the Douglas at Buffalo, Sept. 30. Douglas has won Wonka had 35 tackles and four *9-23: at Lander, 6 p.m.
2022 offseason pertains to 3A all-state selections. 14 of the past 17 in this series and the past two in a sacks, Glassock added 25 tackles *9-30: vs. Douglas, 7 p.m.
Matt Nelson, Cody Cody has six of them returning. The rest of 3A has row. The Bison’s conference title hopes will hang and two fumble recoveries, and
Nelson had two of Cody’s three consecutive four, combined. on this home game. 307-684-7003 Horetski contributed 22 tackles. *10-7: at Worland, 6 p.m.
pick-sixes in the second half of last year’s title So no one else even has a chance? Hey, it could Worland at Lander, Oct. 14. Both teams have Monday-Friday 9am-6pm • Saturday 9am-3pm “We had a great summer with *10-14: vs. Riverton, 6 p.m.
happen. And if it’s going to happen, it’s likely to been on the 3A margins the past few years, not 431 Fort Street • Buffalo, WY 82834 those guys, and we have a lot
game. No surprise – the two-time all-stater quite ready to be a title contender. Whoever wins *10-21: at Rawlins, 6 p.m.
of guys who tackle really well,”
has made it a habit to have big games in big come from Douglas or Buffalo. Neither team enters
here could be a big first-round spoiler if fate finally www.buffaloprescriptionshop.com coach Hammond said. * Conference game
the season as complete as Cody, but they could both
moments. smiles on them.
end the season that way.
Blake Bell, Buffalo
What’s up with the West? After Cody, lots of Predicted order of finish
Bell had 37 catches, 829 yards and 11
uncertainty. Graduation left lots of questions for
every team, and Jackson has a new coach. As a
East Conference: Douglas; Buffalo; Lander;
Worland; Riverton; Rawlins.
307-684-2251
touchdowns. His 22.4 yards per catch was the whole, the conference is down; as a group, it’s as West Conference: Cody; Star Valley; Powell;
best among 3A’s top receivers, but watch for competitive as ever. After Cody. Green River; Evanston; Jackson.
Buffalo to take advantage of Bell’s athleticism And out East — still Douglas? Douglas is still Preseason top five: 1. Cody; 2. Douglas; 3.
to keep defenses honest. the favorite, and Buffalo has been gaining some Buffalo; 4. Star Valley; 5. Lander.
momentum and returns several key
Kade Weber, Worland Key games Way-too-early title game
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is 70.1%, his completion percentage after rematch of the past two Class 3A title games, the Cody 36, Douglas 20. November football is
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Star Valley at Powell, Sept. 30. The West is
Still, the title is Cody’s until someone else does
something to show us otherwise that they deserve it.
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Page 14 Douglas Bearcats 3A EAST 3A EAST Rawlins Outlaws Page 15
Bearcats eye another playoff run Hastings looks to revamp Outlaws
The physical nature of Class 3A two touchdowns. He is the only but they are the only three of the Throughout his coaching career, the Outlaws have struggled to
football is not lost on the Douglas returner who was in triple-digit Bearcats’ top 10 tacklers returning. David Hastings has always tried to accomplish.
Mascot: Bearcats Bearcats. rushing yards last year. Carter Archuleta was Douglas’ find opportunities to turn around Rawlins actually finished the
“There are athletes
Division: Class 3A With a thinner roster than usual, Rhoades said Hughes and top tackler as a freshman last
Conference: East the Bearcats’ focus this season will junior Trey Rinn will compete at season, a rarity at 3A. He had 79 struggling programs. 2021 season with negative rushing here and there’s
So when the Rawlins coaching yards; those struggles were offset
Colors: Blue and red be on making sure the physical
part of the game has a chance to
quarterback, but both will play on
offense.
tackles, including three for loss,
and tied for the team lead with 14 position came open, the former somewhat by 729 passing yards.
athletic ability here.” Mascot: Outlaws
Coach: Jay Rhoades, shine on Friday nights in games “When we went to summer solo tackles. Rock Springs coach had The Outlaws gained 96.4 yards Division: Class 3A
17th year at Douglas – not on weekday afternoons in camp, we got to see both of them Skeen had 52 tackles to finish immediate interest. per game, less than half that of the
2021 Record: 8-2, lost to practice. in action under center, we got second on the team and tied for Conference: East
Jackson in state semifinals “We’re really going to have to see both of them out on the the team lead with nine tackles for “I was looking for another next-best 3A team. Meanwhile, the
to focus on not beating them up perimeter as receivers, and they loss, while Ewing – who was the opportunity to turn a program defense gave up 350.2 yards per ~Coach Colors: Red and black
Key Players
QB/S: Jackson Hughes, Sr.
in practice, really taking care of
our kids physically,” coach Jay
both did really well at both spots,”
Rhoades said.
3A East defensive player of the
year last season and is Douglas’
around, and I thought this would
be a good spot and a good fit,” he
game.
No returning rusher carried for
David Hastings
RB/OLB: Karson Ewing, Sr. Rhoades said. With that versatility, Rhoades only returning all-state choice said. double-digit yards last year. Coach: David Hastings,
OL: T.K. Stenson, Sr. If the Bearcats can stay healthy said, “we can give some – added 39 tackles, including a
RB/LB: Luke Skeen, Sr. and injury-free, Rhoades said, different looks and not be one- team-high five tackles for loss. Of all the rebuilding projects, However, senior Eli Kern, find a way to best use the talent he first year at Rawlins
“I feel like we can play with dimensional.” “All those kids have really Rawlins is definitely one of the Rawlins’ only all-conference had – and to get that talent onto the
2022 Schedule anybody.” However, the Bearcats’ top four good motors, and I think that’s most challenging; the Outlaws selection last season, had 24 2021 Record: 0-9, did not
8-26: vs. Cody, TBA (Zero Week) field in the first place.
The Bearcats are coming off receivers all graduated, leaving something you really can’t coach,” have gone 0-9 each of the past two catches for 318 yards and two qualify for playoffs
9-2: at Jackson, 5 p.m. back-to-back semifinal losses, but senior Luke Skeen – who had Rhoades said. “It’s something that Hastings said Rawlins has
seasons, and their 18-game losing touchdowns to lead the Outlaws’ that kind of talent, evident in the
9-9: at Gering, Neb., 7 p.m. even with a smaller roster than in eight catches for 50 yards – as kids have or they don’t have. You
9-16: vs. Powell, 6 p.m. previous seasons, Douglas has the Douglas’ top returning pass- add their already good motors with streak is the second-longest active receiving game. Senior Braden Outlaws’ Class 3A basketball
*9-23: vs. Worland, 6 p.m. talent and maturity to continue to catcher. maturity, and hopefully you just losing streak in the state behind Fritz added eight catches for 122 2022 Schedule
championship last season.
*9-30: at Buffalo, 7 p.m. play with anybody. On the line, seniors T.K. have a great improvement from Cheyenne South. yards, third-best on the team. 8-26: Rawlins jamboree, 7 p.m.
*10-7: at Riverton, 6 p.m. “When I was talking to people
Senior Jackson Hughes returns Stenson and Alex Virtue and junior last season.” One big question for Hastings Up front, the Outlaws lack
*10-14: vs. Rawlins, 6 p.m. under center after completing Tegen Seeds will provide lead Hughes had 18 tackles last year, about this job, (athleticism) is one (Zero Week)
and his staff to figure out will be experience, but Hastings said he of the things they talk about a lot,”
*10-21: vs. Lander, 6 p.m. 67 of 132 passes for 813 yards ership and experience. while senior Brock Pyle notched
* Conference game and 11 touchdowns while also Douglas’ d efense returns its 13. how players respond when things liked what he saw from senior he said. “There are athletes here 9-2: at Pinedale, 7 p.m.
running 75 times for 379 yards and No. 1, 2 and 4 tacklers from 2021, go bad or when they make a Michael Drayton and sophomore and there’s athletic ability here.” 9-9: at Green River, 7 p.m.
mistake. Hastings said he wants to Vaughn Grant.
make sure that mistakes don’t feed Senior Josh Smith is Rawlins’ 9-16: vs. Moffat County,
3A EAST Lander Tigers into other issues later on so they top returning tackler, the only one Key Players
Colo., 7 p.m.
can appropriately handle adversity. of the top four to return. He was
Tigers building on recent success
WR: Eli Kern, Sr.
“Our biggest focus is as a staff second on the team with 57 tackles *9-23: vs. Riverton, 7 p.m.
we need to find victories, whether last year. TE/LB: Braden Fritz, Sr. *9-30: vs. Worland, 6 p.m.
it’s big victories or small victories, Kern added 28 tackles, fifth on RB/OLB: Josh Smith, Sr.
Lander’s past three seasons have the program. The group includes solo – while tying for the team lead *10-7: at Lander, 6 p.m.
all ended the same way – on the three all-conference players in with three pass deflections. because there hasn’t been a lot the squad.
Mascot: Tigers OL/DL: Michael Drayton, Sr.
grass of Bill Bush Stadium in the Gabe Harris, Brenon Stauffenberg As a high-effort player at Division: Class 3A of that over the last two years,” Junior Sage Lonn had 13 *10-14: at Douglas, 6 p.m.
Class 3A quarterfinals. and Matisse Weaver. linebacker, Harris has high Conference: East Hastings said. tackles, Fritz had 12 and senior
*10-21: vs. Buffalo, 6 p.m.
On the plus side, the Tigers have “They understand what lies expectations from the coaches. Colors: Green and black Hastings said one of his Dian Henson had 10. All My Love Flowers & Gifts
played well enough in the regular ahead and have a team first “We expect Gabe to not only philosophies will be to establish Hastings said in his previous * Conference game
307-324-6000 • 411 W. Cedar
season to secure home playoff attitude,” Scott said, “as some will play to his level, but to help bring Coach: John Scott, the running game, something coaching stops, one key was to
games for three consecutive be playing new positions their others to their best levels,” Scott fifth year at Lander
years, a feat the program hasn’t senior year.” said. 2021 Record: 4-5, lost
accomplished since 2004. Stauffenberg and Harris will stay That will be needed, since Harris to Star Valley in state
But that success has yet to put, though. is the only one of Lander’s top six quarterfinals Worland Warriors 3A EAST
translate into a playoff victory, Stauffenberg completed 122 of tacklers to return this year.
Warriors keep climbing the ladder
which has not happened for Lander 227 passes for 1,752 yards and 13 Weaver had 26 tackles last Key Players
since, again, 2004. touchdowns last season and will season, while Stauffenberg had 25. QB/FS: Brenon Stauffenberg, Sr.
“The first year or two it was start for the Tigers for a third year Stauffenberg also led Lander with WR/LB: Gabe Harris, Sr.
great getting into the postseason,” at quarterback. four interceptions and had three RB/DE/K: Matisse Weaver, Sr.
OT/DE: Jesse Dollard, Sr. Entering his third season as postseason progress; although the seriously is going to make all the
Lander coach John Scott said. “But Scott said Stauffenberg may pass deflections of his own. Worland’s head coach, Patrick Warriors made the playoffs last difference, and it has.”
we can’t make that our primary have to make more plays with his Seniors Jack Pasquinelli (15 2022 Schedule Sweeney strikes an optimistic tone. year, they failed to get out of the However, he also noted, “You’ve
goal. legs this year. tackles), Rope Glick (13) and Jesse 8-26: vs. Pinedale, scrim., 4 p.m. It’s not because of his team’s first round for the fifth consecutive got to be more than hopeful. You’ve
“ … As a staff, these challenges “Every year we have added onto Dollard (10) also had double-digit Mascot: Warriors
(Zero Week) depth; the Warriors graduated a year. got to go make it happen.”
drive us and we set out to find his plate and he has responded,” tackles last year. 9-2: at Green River, 7 p.m. Division: Class 3A
huge class of seniors, nearly 20 Instead, Sweeney said he sees This year’s team will have a
those who are effort guys and Scott said. “He knows our system In the offensive backfield, 9-9: at Powell, 7 p.m. Conference: East
together we commit ourselves to and embraces a larger role.” Weaver – who was an all-state deep, and this year’s team will rely incremental progress that continues much smaller group of seniors but
9-16: vs. Evanston, 6 p.m. Colors: Orange and black a lot on juniors and sophomores. to shape the Warrior program will rely on some athleticism to
compete with no excuses – we will Harris, meanwhile, was choice at kicker in 2020 – was *9-23: vs. Buffalo, 6 p.m.
find a way, that is a good thing.” Lander’s top pass-catcher with 33 Lander’s No. 2 rusher last year, *9-30: at Riverton, 6 p.m. It’s not because of the program’s positively. keep building. Senior Kade Weber
Coach: Patrick Sweeney, recent history; 2021 represented “It’s one small win at a time,” he was an all-state selection and senior
This year’s team will be younger catches for 526 yards and seven running 94 times for 357 yards *10-7: vs. Rawlins, 6 p.m. third year at Worland Worland’s 12th consecutive losing said. “I think kids committing to Brock Douzenis, an all-state choice
than previous iterations of Tiger touchdowns. Moreover, he was and a pair of touchdowns.No other *10-14: vs. Worland, 6 p.m.
*10-21: at Douglas, 6 p.m. 2021 Record: 4-5, lost to season. the weight room, doing three sports in 2020, was all-conference last
squads, but a core group of about Lander’s top tackler, too, notching returner aside from Stauffenberg
10 seniors will help set the pace for 96 total tackles – including 45 had double-digit carries last season. * Conference game Cody in state quarterfinals And it’s not because of any and taking our football offseason CONTINUED PAGE 16
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