ONE LAST RIDE. As the 2023-2024 school year begins, everyone’s attention is directed to the gridiron. The Valley Heights football team has a lot of buzz surrounding them this season. The team has all 11 starters returning on offense and defense with a significant new addition.
Senior quarterback, Carson Spoonts, transferred to Valley Heights after his father Mr. Sean Spoonts obtained the superintendent position. Carson has impressed many individuals with his physical attributes and his ability to improvise on the field. On top of the new signal-caller, the Mustangs have their all-state linebacker and fullback, Kaison Bigham setting his sights on a big year. The offensive line is anchored by three Seniors; Drake Slifer, Tyrel Wagner, and Spencer Lees.
The Mustangs open the season with a real barn burner against their heated rival, the Centralia Panthers. Many have this as their game of the year. The next week the Mustangs host the Onaga Buffaloes for the home opener. After back-to-back road games against Troy and Republic County, the Mustangs return home for their homecoming game against the Sacred Heart Chargers. The back stretch of the season is the team’s true test, with their toughest games on the entire schedule. After facing Marysville, the Mustangs will face off against two of the top teams in the state, the Wabunsee Chargers and Smith Center Redmen.
Many in the community and the school are excited for this upcoming season. Assistant coach Jordan Broxterman states, "This team has a lot of potential and I feel like there is a new fire under them.” Broxterman also states that the team has a lot of expectations that he believes they can meet. When asked about these expectations senior Drake Slifer says, “We have to keep our foot on the gas against teams like Centralia and Smith Center because those are our toughest games this year.”
Whether you are in the stands or on the field, it is no secret that the Valley Heights community is buzzing for the upcoming season.
Article By: Tyrel Wagner