On Monday, August 8, the Trojan football team started the 2016 season with their first official practice. The team is under an entirely new coaching staff including head coach Mike McDermott, assistant coach Lee Saathoff, JV coaches Justin Williams and Gaylord Schelling, and freshmen coaches Alan Jenkins and Brandon Krause.

Head varsity coach Mike McDermott said, “Us coaches have been pleasantly surprised with the attitude and effort by our football team so far this season. It’s been positive and we’ve focused on improving everyday.”

The team has its first game of the season this Friday, August 26, against Clarinda. The boys are expecting tough competition, but are mentally and physically prepared to give it their all.

McDermott said, “We expect them to play hard, play fundamentally sound, and be disciplined.  We’ll let the scoreboard take care of itself.”

Senior captain Garrett Franken said, “I’m expecting the fans to see a new team, and to see that we are all together and we have great unity.”

Wingback Chase Mullenix said, “This season is a lot better of an atmosphere. We all have the right mindset, and we have the same vision to win this Friday.”

The team is focused on playing hard and doing things the right way. McDermott said this week has been focused on discipline and communication on the field. “We will continue to focus on these aspects of the game for now. We appreciate all the support and coverage, and will see what Friday night brings.”

The varsity game is home this Friday, kickoff starting at 7.