Bobcat football squad showing leadership

The Bobcats are getting ready to take to the field for the 2019-20 football season, with practice beginning this past week. Their first game is a 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6, at home against Big Horn.

Coach Matt McPhie stated, “We’ve got great leadership as we enter into this fall. We have an incredible group of players who are eager and willing to put in the hard work necessary to accomplish great things on the field. We are lead by a stout group of seniors who have experienced some success — and are thirsty to delve into the upper echelon of the 2A football hierarchy.

“This team has gone from one conference win in 2016, to two conference wins in 2017, and improved to three conference wins in 2018. This year we have a blueprint to increase that production.“

Leading the team, McPhie said, is Riley Shaffer at offensive line and linebacker. “Riley is a fearless diehard football player with a big motor and we expect big things from him this fall. Blake Williams returns to lead us at receiver and defensive back. Oran Coyne will play a big part in our success on the offensive and defensive line. Cade McLean will have a large role on our improving offense and defense.

“Duder Harvey has had incredible growth as an athlete this past year and will be one of the most explosive players in all of Wyoming. Harvey’s role will take many forms as he will line up at RB, WR, and Quarterback on our offense. Another senior who has been working hard is Matthew Daniels, he will add depth to both sides of the ball at offensive and defensive line. Senior Spencer Axtell is a very good athlete who will make big plays for us on both sides of the ball as well. We also return All-Conference player Jarron Mortimore. Jarron has worked incredibly hard during the off-season and will lead our team on both sides of the ball. Mr. Mortimore is a talented football player who possesses a unique skill set that will lead our team to success on any given Friday night.”

McPhie further noted the deep group of juniors, sophomores and freshmen who will “help propel our team to new heights. Junior Remington Ferree will be one of the top linemen in the state of Wyoming. Remington is strong and talented and has the ability to be the best lineman in Wyoming. Returning All-State back Logan Cole will also make waves this season. Juniors Jaxon Jensen and Jesse Skelton also appear ready to increase their role on the team as we prepare to battle on a weekly basis.

“Youngsters who also appear ready to land a role on the varsity team include sophomore quarterback Wyatt McDermott, Cole Christiansen, Jase Longwell, Eli McCumber and Roedy Farrell.

“Every player we have out this year will play a large role in our success. We have some experienced players returning, but we also have some holes to fill with players lost through graduation.

“We anticipate some fierce battles at practice as we prepare for our weekly assessments. I am extremely pleased with our mindset as a whole, and the dedication and commitment shown from our young men as they have approached this campaign is commendable.”