As the fall season approaches, the St. Joseph-Ogden Spartans are gearing up for another exciting year of high school football. With a successful season under their belts from last year, the team is looking to build upon their achievements and make a run for the elusive state championship title. Led by their energetic offensive coordinator, Dalton Walsh, the Spartans are ready to showcase their talent and determination on the field.
Last season, the Spartans had their best performance since 2015, finishing with an impressive 8-3 record. Despite falling short in the playoffs, the team’s hunger for success has only grown stronger. Junior quarterback Kodey McKinney is stepping into the role previously held by Logan Smith, who had a standout season with over 2,600 passing yards and 29 touchdowns. McKinney, inspired by Smith’s performance, is determined to make his mark on the team in his own unique way.
One of the key players returning this season is senior wide receiver Coy Taylor, who had an outstanding season with 1,342 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns. Taylor’s presence on the field is sure to keep opposing defenses on their toes, opening up opportunities for his teammates to shine. With a talented group of receivers, including Tanner Siems and Tim Blackburn-Kelley, the Spartans’ offense is poised for success.
In the backfield, junior Wyatt Wertz is set to take on the role of starting running back, supported by Coy Hayes and Brayden Waller in the H-Back position. The offensive line, anchored by returning starters Nolan Earley, Quincy Jones, Jackson Ennis, and Cameron Wagner, provides a solid foundation for the team’s success. Wagner, a highly touted prospect, has already garnered attention from top college programs.
While the offense looks promising, the Spartans will need to address questions surrounding their defense. With only three returning starters, including Jared Altenbaumer, the team faces a challenge in solidifying their defensive unit. However, Altenbaumer is confident in the abilities of his teammates to step up and fill the void left by departing players.
As the Spartans prepare for their upcoming season opener against Monticello, followed by a highly anticipated matchup against rival Unity, the team is focused on fine-tuning their strategies and building upon their past successes. Head coach Shawn Skinner emphasizes the impact of the football program on the school community, highlighting the positive influence of a successful team on the overall school spirit.
With a mix of experienced veterans and talented newcomers, the St. Joseph-Ogden Spartans are poised for another exciting season on the gridiron. As they strive for excellence on both offense and defense, the team’s dedication and passion for the game are sure to shine through on Friday nights under the lights.
