The region produced four nine-man football teams that played in state championship games last fall, and expect multiple teams to be in the running for state titles again this campaign.
Sully Buttes is the defending Class 9B state champion. The Chargers return some of their key players from a year ago including all-state selections Wesley Wittler and Kadyn Westergren. Sully Buttes has athletes up and down its lineup and will be a tough out for any foe this season.
Faulkton was runner-up in that 9B final. While the Trojans lost some key players to graduation, they also have a solid roster, led by all-state player Tristen Baloun. Spencer Melius, who missed last year’s postseason run due to injury, will be a key player from the quarterback position this year.
In Class 9A, Warner will once again be among the teams to beat. The Monarchs, who won a state championship two years ago before losing in the semifinals to eventual state champ Howard last season, have some dynamic athletes on the gridiron, led by playmaker Jesiah Baum. Chays Mansfield will also play a key role, as well as one top kickers in the state Alec Mikkelsen. All three players earned all-state honors a year ago.
Wolsey-Wessington, which was runner-up in 9A last season, suffered some key losses to graduation, but past all-stater Caleb Richmond is still around to run the Warbirds offense.
Kyle Hettich of Ipswich is a threat to score whenever he touches the ball. The all-state playmaker will be a key component for the Tigers, who already own a big win over Faulkton this season.
In Class 9AA, defending state champion Hamlin lost some key members from a year ago, but the cupboard is far from empty for the Chargers. Jackson Wadsworth is a force on both sides of the ball and will be among the top quarterbacks in the class. Tight end Aidan Abraham will be a factor as well. Both gained all-state recognition.
Leola-Frederick also returns a pair of all-state members in Westyn Thorpe and Ethan Petrich. The Titans tend to make a strong postseason run year in and year out.
Returning all-stater Bryce Hawkinson of Britton-Hecla is already off to a fast start this season, and will be a top player for the Braves.
In 11-man football, Mack Saxon of Mobridge-Pollock will be among the top ballcarriers in his class. The returning all-state selection rushed for 173 yards and three touchdowns this past weekend.
Elsewhere in Class 11B, Clark-Willow Lake will be among the top area teams in the state led by the likes of Emmerson Larson. Look for the Cyclones to be one of top teams in the region.
(Note: Previews on Aberdeen Central and Aberdeen Roncalli were already published).
