News

This season will look different for several reasons.

One, many of the covid protocols that teams had to use last year at this time have been relaxed. Two, the classification structure has been revised as it usually is every other year.

This year’s class reset lands two defending champions in 9AA, one in 9A that moved up from 9B and no defending champs in Class 9B. This rearrangement has made for some interesting previews. Let’s start with the largest 9-man class.

SD Class 9AA

Jandy’s Preseason Top 5

1.Platte-Geddes

The Black Panthers got stronger and stronger throughout the season and polished off a memorable 12-0 run with a 9AA championship. Although that team had several important seniors that they’ll miss, there are six starters back to try to achieve another deep playoff run. Head Coach Bruce Hanson knows even with strong talent back the task will be tough, “Handling success and being one of the favorites in 9AA will be a big challenge,” said Hanson. “We know we will get teams best effort being defending state champs, so just staying focused one game at a time.”

The Black Panthers have five all-state players back headlined by running back and potential quarterback Grayson Hanson. He totaled 24 touchdowns running throwing and receiving last year and will be the best returning player on defense as well. RB/CB Jackson Neuman and TE/DE Caden Foxley could start on any team in the state regardless of class. Jackson Olsen, Reggie Ringling, Aiden Bultje, Chase Varilek and Royce Finney are all returning starters too. This team has a demanding schedule that includes 9-man powerhouses almost every week. But they have the talent to rise to the top again.

2. Canistota/Freeman

The Pride are three-time defending champs in 9A. Now they move up to 9AA where they will see even more competition. Head Coach James Strang has guided this program to sustained success, but this is one of the more inexperienced teams he’s had, “We had a large senior group that graduated, but we have a good group coming up. We will need to identify what our strengths will be this year and work hard against a demanding schedule.”

Isiah Robertson is one of the top backs in the class. He and Noah Kleinsasser will have to generate a lot of the offense on the ground. Riley Heiberger and Jacob Swenson are mainstays on the line, but the Pride will need to have some younger kids step up to help on the line. Look for sophomore quarterback Tage Ortman to develop into the starting quarterback. He’ll need to have a good camp to earn that spot, but he looks like he could become a true presence at QB in the coming years. The talent is in place and expectations remain high for a winning program.

3. Hanson

After a strong 7-3 effort last year the Beavers have their eyes on returning to contention this year. Hadley Wallace had an outstanding sophomore season at running back last year and is one of the top talents in the state. He and Jackson Jarding make an imposing pair in the backfield. Kade Waldera returns at QB and has some weapons to spread it around to. One of the strengths of this team is their ability to stuff the run. They’ll have to replace some key defensive linemen but should be big up front again. Head Coach James Haskamp knows the key to the game will be up front, “Our ability to control the line of scrimmage on offense and defense is key to a successful season. We will have good team speed and depth at all positions but will need to develop a little more depth on the lines.”

4. Viborg/Hurley

The Cougars have been tough to beat the last four years under Head Coach Rob Kessler. Last season their threat to repeat as 9AA champs came up 6 points short in the semis. Coach Kessler has some work to do to keep their winning ways but believes he can do that, “We lost a large very talented senior class, but we have a solid core of players coming back, and a good group of somewhat experienced young guys that are working hard. Our numbers will be the lowest we’ve had in years, but still have a lot of talent.”

Three key returning starters are back and they’re all seniors. Quarterback Blake Schroedermeier stepped in last year and showed he belonged after he replaced injured Chase Mason. He has a strong arm and is a physical player. He had Hayden Gilbert back at receiver, a third-year starter who has grown up and grown stronger. Conner Kessler has been a starter since he was a freshman and is back as a bruising fullback and defensive lineman or linebacker. Look for some key younger guys to step up this year to join the strong senior class.

5. Chester Area

Last year Chester started to turn the corner, they finished 6-3 but couldn’t compete at the same level as the elite teams in 9-man football. This year with eight starters back and some all-state players ready to lead they could be the surprise team in Class 9AA. They are extremely explosive on offense. “Overall, we have a very athletic team which has the possibility of putting the ball in the endzone on every play,” said Coach Ken Prorok. “Since the end of last season our team has been committed in the weight room and you can really see the gains.”

Stratton Eppard threw for 3,569 yards and had 34 total touchdowns last year. Eppard had a special connection with Jovi Wolf who earned all-state honors as a freshman. Ryan Benson is an all-state kicker and a returning starting receiver. Chase McDonald, Owen Mersch and Wyatt Hanson all are solid targets in the passing game. Max McGreevy returns at running back with Brock Wages the only starting lineman back. The same group as well as Dalton Reiff come back on defense. The high-flying Flyers have a chance to take a big step in the right directions this season.

More contenders

Hamlin

The Chargers made a trip to the dome last year and return four offensive starters and three on defense. Xander Sheehan has done a lot of work in the offseason to improve at quarterback and leads a strong group on offense. Sam Grantham, Michael Stevenson, Luke Fraser and Joel Opdahl should all play big roles on offense. Coach Jeff Sheehan knows they have some work but should be contenders, “We will be young this year. We will be looking to solidify our line to go with our skilled position players. We have many places to fill on both sides of the ball and we look to be competitive in 9AA.”

Timber Lake

Eight starters are back for the Panthers who have a great opportunity to work their way into contention. Hank Kraft is primed for a big senior season at running back with Kedrick Martin and Jayce Lawrence also in the backfield. “We are a veteran team with game experience, they need to

learn from mistakes made from last year and grow,” said head Coach Ryan Gimbel. “We will also need to stay injury free, last season that was a large burden the team faced.”

Bon Homme

Last year Bon Homme had to work a lot of young players into the mix. Although they matured as the season went on, they were overmatched most nights. This year they have 11 different players who have starting experience back on the team and they should be ready to get back to competing in the class. Isaac Crownover and Riley Rothschadl are two strong juniors ready to pick this program up. “This bunch of football players coming up has always proven in the past that they are willing to work hard in the off-season,” said Coach Byron Pudwill. “These players understand what it takes to get better when nobody is watching, and more importantly, they have the desire and commitment to do so.” Look for Bon Homme to be one of the most improved teams in 9AA.

Lemmon/McIntosh

The Cowboys are hoping to prove their success the last two seasons wasn’t just because of all-state quarterback Cody Thompson who has just graduated. But even though Thompson put up record setting numbers they are going to need to fill even more spots. “We Have a lot of gaps to fill, but we have played a lot of kids in the past years and we feel we will be very good again,” said Head Coach Josh Anderson. “Our biggest spots to fill will be at the line positions on the offensive side of the ball.” Tell Mollman is one of the top linemen in the class. He’s a fourth-year starter this year and sets the tone on both sides of the ball. Tanner Miller hopes to have a big year at running back and Andrew Dirk will get a shot at quarterback.

Parkston

Parkston showed some spark last season and hope to turn that into a fire this year. Eight starters are back including a very strong line on both sides of the ball. Cole Prunty leads the way at quarterback. Coach Matt Grave is excited for the season, “The coaching staff is thrilled about having great participation,” said Grave. “We have numerous student-athletes returning that gained experience on both sides of the ball creates competition and allows the coaching staff to build on prior knowledge.”

Garretson

The Blue Dragons are one of two teams that move from 11-man football to 9-man. Although they just won two games last year they could be on a course for a much-improved season. Eight different players on Garretson have starting experience and they’re in great shape at several key positions. Dylan Kindt threw for almost 1,500 yards last year at quarterback, Jayse Miller is back at running back with Carson Clark earning time there too and Ryan Flanagan, Cooper Long and Cadyn Ockenga will fill in nicely at receiver. Gabe Johnson leads a strong line up front. “We are making some changes offensively on our move back to 9-man,” said Coach Chris Long. “We have good quickness and experience returning.”

Florence/Henry

The Falcons should be strong once again this year. Not many athletes are as lethal as Ashton Hanson the senior back who gained 1,598 yards and 21 touchdowns last season. Tegan Sumner is also back at quarterback with Mehki Keller and Chase Kelly back in the starting lineup. “We hope to find some momentum early in the season,” said Coach Travis Schmidt. “We lost quite a bit of size to graduation but we should be quick and that team speed will allow us to have versatility on offense and defense.”

Lyman

The Raiders will build off last year’s 6-3 record with five returning starters on offense and six on defense. Teagan Gourneau gives them a dual threat at QB while Colton Collins is on target to be one of the top running backs in the class. Lyman moves up to 9AA this year and Head Coach Mike Kieffer is ready for the competition, “Moving up to 9AA we’re looking to have a good year returning numerous starters on offense and defense.”

Ipswich

The Tigers went 7-3 last year and have most of their team back to contend this year. Ian Beyers returns at QB and has Carson Gohl and Luke Peterson with him in the backfield and Zach Geditz at guard. These guys were very close to some great competition last year including two close losses to state runner-up Warner. They have the talent and the team speed on defense to get it done.

Arlington/Lake Preston

Derek Mertz steps in as a first-year head coach for the Badgers. Last year they finished 5-5 and this year return just two starters, Nate Kersting and Caleb Clark. They will have to work in several new faces to be a contender this year. Despite being inexperienced all over the field, Coach Mertz likes their attitude, “We have had a great offseason and are on track to maximize our potential,” said Mertz. “We will have competition for spots all over the field and I believe through competition the cream will always rise to the top.”

Leola/Frederick

Jeff Kosters takes over for Leola/Frederick this season after the North Border co-op is over. Although it’s his first year for the Titans he’s a seasoned coach and knows how to put a winning team on the field. Five starters return for Coach Kosters, “We have a good nucleus of returning players with experience and a nice group of underclassmen that are coming up in the program that have great potential. The group as a whole works hard and is dedicated to the program.”

Class 9AA Preseason Player of the Year

Grayson Hanson, Platte-Geddes

Last season Grayson Hanson was one of the most versatile players in the state and showed it as he helped the Black Panthers win a state title. He was named the MVP of the championship game. The running back rushed for 836 yards and 14 touchdowns, he also played quarterback where he was 13-20 for 149 yards and 6 TDs. But his impact can be felt the most on defense where he mans the middle of the field at linebacker. He made 68 solo tackles and 59 assisted last year with four forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries and 4 interceptions. Grayson credits his offensive line with much of the team’s success, “We have a bunch of our o-line back and altogether it makes a big difference in our offense.”

Next 10 in 9AA

• Colton Collins, Lyman
• Stratton Eppard, Chester Area
• Cayden Foxley, Platte-Geddes
• Ashton Hanson, Florence-Henry
• Hank Kraft, Timber Lake
• Isiah Robertson, Canistota/Freeman
• Blake Schroedermeier, Viborg-Hurley
• Michael Stevenson, Hamlin
• Hadley Wallace, Hanson
• Jovi Wolf, Chester Area

More Big-Time Players in 9AA

• Ryan Benson, Chester Area
• Ian Beyers, Ipswich
• Isaac Crownover, Bon Homme
• Royce Finney, Platte-Geddes
• Hayden Gilbert, Viborg-Hurley
• Teagan Gourneau, Lyman
• Mason Hinz, Leola/Frederick
• Chase Kelly, Florence-Henry
• Conner Kessler, Viborg-Hurley
• Dylan Kindt, Garretson
• Ryan Krog, Elkton-Lake Benton
• Tell Mollman, Lemmon/McIntosh
• Jackson Neuman, Platte-Geddes
• Jackson Olsen, Platte-Geddes
• Luke Peterson, Ipswich
• Cole Prunty, Parkston
• Riley Rothschadl, Bon Homme
• Xander Sheehan, Hamlin

 

SD Class 9A

Jandy’s Preseason Top 5

1. Wolsey-Wessington

They’re coming off a 10-1 championship season with 8 starters back. Things are looking good for Wolsey-Wessington. However, there are some challenges for Coach Gordon Hooks and the Warbirds, “Moving up to Class 9A, our schedule has changed some. But it will be fun to get a chance to play some teams we have not played in a while.”

The top talented running back in the class, Erik Klanchnik fought through injuries last year and sparked a playoff run with his legs. He churned out 148 yards on the ground in his third game back in the semifinals against Herreid-Selby Area and scored two touchdowns in the championship game. But there are so many other guys to worry about on this offense. Marty Gohn filled in at running back and also played some wildcat last year, he’s slated to take over at QB this year. Keegan Haider, Payson Gohn and Carson Zomer all bring big play potential to the offense as well and Sterlin Bonin returns up front, he was the outstanding lineman in the championship game last year.

2. De Smet

Last season the Bulldogs hit a few roadblocks that they couldn’t overcome. This year with a strong senior class and 5 returning starters on offense and seven on defense, they should be considered a team to watch. Colt Wilkinson returns to lead the offense with a strong running game beside him in Kalen Garry and Rett Osthus. The line is seasoned and bigger and better than last year too. Head Coach Brenden Pitts loves this team’s makeup, “These guys have worked really hard in the weight room and I can’t wait to see how it translates on the field.”

3. Herreid/Selby Area

The last two years the Wolverines have made a deep run into the 9B playoffs. This year they move up to 9A for a little bit more competition. They should be ready for it with a strong core of returning players. All-State caliber talent like Brenden Begeman, Tray Hettick, Chance Gregg, Trey Sayler and Trevor Sayler should give them enough firepower to compete with their new schedule. “I love the way our guys work and push each other,” said Coach Clayton Randall. “We have guys (players and coaches) that love football and are willing to put the work into the off-season in order to win games on Friday nights.”

Brenden Begeman returns after a 1,894 yard season with senior fullback Trey Sayler sharing the load coming off 969 yards gained rushing last year. Look for quarterback Tray Hettick to take the next step into one of the top quarterbacks in the class. He started as a sophomore last year and has added strength and size in the offseason. As with all nine-man teams it’s imperative for the Wolverines to stay healthy. They have only about 20 on the roster this year. If they do they could get back to the semis and make a run for the title.

4. Howard

The Tigers are coming off a great season that didn’t end the way they wanted. They were defeated by the eventual champs 12-7 before they could get to the dome. They have just a few returning starters but believe they have the up-and-coming talent to make another serious playoff run. “We have 12 Seniors and Juniors on the roster and a lot of youngers kids out this year,” said Head Coach Pat Ruml. “We should have some depth again if we can get the younger group to develop.”

Two key returning players are Ty Beyer who will see many of the carries on offense and future SDSU lineman Jace Sifore who plans to play some tight end this year. John Callies returns to start on defense as well. Look for Karsyn Feldhaus and Taiden Hoyer to play bigger roles as sophomores in this Tiger offense.

5. Warner

The Monarchs didn’t lose a game until the championship against Canistota/Freeman. They battled hard and learned a few lessons on the way. Although they lost several key seniors and all-state performers, they have a hungry group that’s ready to keep the momentum moving forward. “We graduated four All-State football players that left holes to fill on both sides of the ball,” said Coach Kerwin Hoellein. “The upside to that is we have a number of underclassmen that are working hard in the weight room to help fill those positions.”

Hunter Cramer is one of the keys to this season’s success. Although he’s just a sophomore he’s already become one of the top quarterbacks in 9-man football. He threw for 1,373 yards and 16 touchdowns as a freshman last year. He’ll look to Peyton Jung, Trekk Hannahs and Zach Wood for help on offense while Dawson Hanson and Lincoln Thorpe headline a stout defense.

More Contenders

Wall

Head Coach Lex Heathershaw has raised the standard for football over the past few seasons, “We are excited for another season of football. After losing in the semifinals to Warner last season our boys are hungry for another chance at a state title run. We have some key pieces returning on both sides of the ball and some young guys who are ready to step up.” Quarterback Burk Blasius along with Cedar Amiotte, Rylan McDonnell, Blair Blasius, Norman Livermont and Brodi Sundall are just a few of the talented players back for Wall.

Castlewood

The Warriors went 5-5 last year and return virtually everyone with 8 starters back. Quarterback Tristan Nielson has one of the top running backs beside him in Carson Kirwan. Head Coach Doug Ruesink has had a lot of winning teams and this one has as much experience and work ethic as any over the last decade.

Gregory

The young Gorillas struggled by their standards last season, but they were super-young and inexperienced. They are still a young team but have 6 offensive starters returning to try to get back into the mix. Quarterback Rylan Peck and running backs Kade Stukel, Owen Hanson and Trey Murray give them a lot of variety and options in the offensive game. “This group of young men bring a variety of talent and skill into our team philosophy,” said Coach Michael Murray.

Kadoka Area

The Kougars are coming off one of the best seasons in school history. They have some big holes to fill but have five starters back. Tyus Williams could step up as a junior and have a big year at running back. Coach Chad Eisenbraun knows there are some challenges, “We lose 4 very good athletes to graduation that produced a lot of our yards, points, and tackles. We’ve got a little over half of our starters coming back, but the big question will be how long it takes our team to gel with the kids stepping into the big shoes that they will fill.”

Oldham-Ramona/Rutland

Coach Logan DeRungs has everyone back for the Raiders this fall. Will Matson is a three year starter at quarterback who threw for 900 yards and ran for 700 more. He’ll lead a deep team that has a shot to step up the standings. They have four seniors starting who have been starting since they were freshmen. “Will Matson is a playmaker on both sides of the ball. He is a hard hitter and physical runner. Orion Albertson led our team with tackles a year ago and we will look for him to take another step,” said coach DeRungs.

Burke

Head Coach Mike Sebern has 7 starters returning after a winning season a year ago. “We have some ability to be diverse offensively and defensively and should have some balance,” said Coach Sebern. Taron Serr and the Cougars will be in every game they play this year.

Philip

The Scotties won 7 games last year with a powerful line and stellar running game. They lose a couple key running backs but return Chayson Scofield at quarterback as well as a host of other talented players. They should be a solid team once again.

Class 9A Preseason Player of the Year

Eric Klanchnik, Wolsey-Wessington

Erik was our pre-season player of the year in 9B last year but spent much of the season our due to injury. He ended up rejoining the team just in time for the playoffs and helped put the Warbirds on a different level. In just four games he averaged 121 yards per game and 9.9 yards per carry. He didn’t play a lot of defense last year but should be a factor on that side of the ball this season for Wolsey-Wessington. Now as a senior Eric is strong and ready for a big year.

Next 10 in 9A

• Cedar Amiotte, Wall
• Brendan Begeman, Herreid-Selby Area
• Ty Beyer, Howard
• Hunter Cramer, Warner
• Marty Gohn, Wolsey-Wessington
• Carson Kirwan, Castlewood
• Trevor Sayler, Herreid-Selby Area
• Trey Sayler, Herreid-Selby Area
• Jace Sifore, Howard
• Colt Wilkinson, De Smet

More Big-Time Players in 9A

• Orion Albertson, Oldham-Ramona/Rutland
• Burk Blasius, Wall
• Blair Blasius, Wall
• Sterlin Bonin, Wolsey-Wessington
• Kalen Garry, De Smet
• Chance Gregg, Herreid-Selby Area
• Norman Livermont, Wall
• Will Matson, Oldham-Ramona/Rutland
• Jesse Schall, Sully Buttes
• Taron Serr, Burke
• Dashel Suprrell, Irene-Wakonda
• Tyus Williams, Kadoka Area

 

SD Class 9B

Jandy’s Preseason Top 5

1. Harding County

After an unusual four-loss season last year Harding County should rebound with seven starters back. Head Coach Jay Wammen likes the foundation of this year’s team, “We gained tons of experience last season and this will be one of the smartest teams we have coached.” The numbers at Harding County are as high as they’ve been in a decade with the co-op of Bison.

Kelby Hett leads a strong junior class as the returning quarterback. He has Keegan Hett as his main weapon once again who can catch and run the ball for the Ranchers. Cayden Floyd is one of the few seniors on the team. He showed promise last year as he ran for 417 yards with 11 TDs. Defensively Grey Gilbert leads a solid front at defensive tackle. If Harding County plays well on the offensive and defensive lines they’ll be the favorite in 9B this year.

2. Dell Rapids St. Mary

The Cardinals had one of their best seasons in team history making it all the way to the dome last season. It was especially rewarding because they rebounded from a 1-2 start and fought through injuries and quarantines. They are the only team from last year’s 9B semifinals to remain in Class 9B. Coach Flemmer knows he might not have as much talent as last year but still sees them as a contender, “. We will have some experience coming back. I also feel that they’ve got a taste of success and that should fuel them this year.”

Just three starters return on offense and four on defense. CJ Smith comes back at quarterback with some experience last season. John Pica earned all-state recognition at guard last year and Noah Olund returns at fullback. Look for Nic Gaspar to have a big sophomore season for the Cardinals too. The seniors on this team need to step up and lead while the younger players need to contribute sooner than later. The Cardinals have a chance to make another playoff run.

3. Faulkton Area

The Trojans return 18 letterwinners from last year’s 4-4 team. “I like our leadership and our work ethic,” said Coach Shayne Geditz. “I also like that we have good numbers on our team and guys that are willing to work hard to get better.” Six starters on offense and 5 on defense give Faulkton Area as much experience as anyone in the class.

Senior quarterback, Parker Geditz, returns for his third year starting for the Trojans. Last year he threw for nearly 1,000 yards and should be one of the best signal callers in the class. Bennett Cassens is also a three-year starter and will be one of Geditz’ go-to receivers. Look for Garrett Cramer to get a chance at running back as a sophomore this year. Hunter Niederbaumer and Simon Bowar lead the defense as seniors. Look for Layne cotton to make big contributions as a sophomore this season.

4. Alcester-Hudson

The Cubs were contenders last year and hope to build off that momentum this year. They will be without Logan Serck who made so many big plays for them last year but return a strong core of players. Jovey Christensen had several big games last year running the ball for Alcester-Hudson and has a good line to run behind again this year. They have three other starters back in Jacob Kemner, Wyatt Bolsvert and Jason Wennblom. Look for some significant contributions from Owen Serck, Caden Winquist and Connor Graff as well.

5. Corsica-Stickney

The Jags are coming off a 6-5 year where they put up some big offensive outputs. They’ll have to improve on defense to move up the 9B ranks. One big weapon for the Jags will be Caden Vandrongelen at running back who put up some huge games last year. Hayden Plamp is another senior with experience. They will have to have the sophomore class and younger players step up if they prove to be a contender in the class.

More Contenders

Potter County

A seasoned group from Gettysburg could put together a good season with their top two yard-getters back and 7 of their top nine tacklers also returning. Quarterback Grant Luikens and running back Colt Wieseler are both double threats in the backfield.

Gayville-Volin

Kyle Hirsch and Andrew Gustad are back for the Raiders. They haven’t been able to take that next step to be a ranked contender in the class but could do that this year if Hirsch and Gustad help carry the team.

Avon

Seven starters return for Tom Culver’s crew including three year starting quarterback Riley Rucktaeschel. Lincoln Thury is one of the top tacklers in the class and heads a fierce defense. This group of Pirates is determined to bring Avon back into contention in Class 9B.

Class 9B Preseason Player of the Year

Parker Geditz, Faulkton Area

The three-year starter for Faulkton doesn’t boast huge numbers or tons of all-state accolades, but he does have great leadership skills and has command of the quarterback position for one of the top contenders in the class. That’s more than any other of the QBs in 9B. He threw for 993 yards at a 54% clip last year. Look for Parker to have his biggest year yet in 2021.

Next 10 in 9B

• Jovey Christensen, Alcester-Hudson
• Cayden Floyd, Harding County
• Grey Gilbert, Harding County
• Andrew Gustad, Gayville-Volin
• Kelby Hett, Harding County
• Grant Luikens, Potter County
• John Pica, DR St. Mary
• Riley Rucktaeschel, Avon
• Jesse Schall, Sully Buttes
• Caden Vandrongelen, Corsica-Stickney

More Big-Time Players in 9B

• Nic Gaspar, DR St. Mary
• Logan Albers, New Underwood
• Keegan Hett, Harding County
• Kyle Hirsch, Gayville-Volin
• Noah Olund, DR St. Mary
• CJ Smith, DR St. Mary