Reed City's football team will open the season at home on Aug. 25 vs. Orchard View. (File photo)
File PhotoREED CITY—A tradition of excellence has taken shape over the years for Reed City football, and expectations are the same heading into a new season.
For years, Reed City has been the team to beat in the CSSA Gold. After finishing 9-2 last season, winning a conference championship and advancing to the district title game, returning players know what winning football looks like. The Coyotes are looking to add another strong season to their history.
The team returns a strong roster of players from last season's successful run after only losing five contributors in Dylan Schebil, Blake Vanalstine, Blake Daggy, Logan Ringler and Trent Howell. Head coach Scott Shankel said one of the team's biggest strengths this season is its experience in returning players.
“We have a lot of returning players,” Shankel said. “This group has had a great summer and worked really hard. They are a competitive group that loves to compete. We have guys up front and skilled players that are returning.”
Shankel said the area to work on this season is trying to get better at every rep and not striving for excellence. With the team's winning experience, expectations are high for the season.
“Expectations for these guys are to keep the Reed City tradition rolling and to work hard daily and be great role models for other players and athletes at Reed City,” Shankel said. “Our goal to hopefully win a conference championship and make a run in the playoffs.”
As for the CSAA, “The conference will be tough again this year. I see everyone as a favorite,” Shankel said. “Week in and week out you have to bring your best in order to compete for a conference championship. I believe we will be in the race for the championship.”
The first game of the season will take place at home against Orchard View at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 25. Orchard View will be playing its first varsity game since the 2020 season after being unable to field a team last season.
