GLENPOOL WARRIORS
Coach: ISRAEL MASELERA
4-6
OFFENSE
Entering the 2024 season, head coach Israel Maselera’s efforts to return the Warrior football program into the “running back High,” it was when he played, continues. With several returning starters and senior leadership, Maselera believes the team is poised to take a big step this season. “Team has lost eight seniors from last season. But, that group of guys helped build a solid foundation for years to come. We have a bunch of hard-working athletes who are beginning to see a return on their investments into the program. Numbers in terms of participants are increasing every year which is exciting,” said Maselera. High expectations are on the shoulders of Rueger Tatum (6-2, 205, Sr.), the starting quarterback for the Warriors. “He has started at QB since his freshman year in high school. He has complete control of the team as a leader, and fully understands the different personalities of the players. His junior season he took on an even bigger role in the offense by showing he can run with his legs, and not just get the ball out of his hands quickly. He is definitely someone to look out for,” said Maselera. Tatum will look for two main targets in the passing game:Dyson Sanders (6-0, 180, Sr.) and Judah Byrd (5-9, 165, Sr.). Both players are capable of playing multiple positions including running back. Brayden Slaton (6-0, 200, Jr.) is a hard runner who does not shy away from contact. Switzer McGeeley (6-0, 305, Sr.) and Landon Pangle (6-0, 240, So.) play big roles in the success of the offense with their play on the line. Look for a lot of 11 personnel from the Warriors coupled with a physical brand of football.
DEFENSE
As good as the offense may look, the defense may be just as good. It starts up front for the Warriors on defense with McGeeley going both ways alongside TJ Christel (5-10, 250, Sr.). This tandem will cause problems for opposing offenses. Add Pangle to that list and you have a tough defensive front to contain. “Three-man front, bend, don’t break defensive philosophy. Swarming defense, get as many helmets to the football as possible. Effort, and preparation is what we coach. Being prepared has you playing fast, and that’s what we want from all of our players,” said Maselera. Josh Bowler (6-1, 200, Sr.) leads a group of linebackers that hold up against any group in the class. Bowler will start at OLB, while Lane Jiles (6-2, 220, So.) starts at inside linebacker. Despite his age, Jiles has become a great leader on and off the field. Jiles also plays on the offensive line. Sanders and Byrd will start in the secondary giving the Warriors two ballhawks to defend the pass. The coaching staff consists of Ted Smith (DC), Rusty Davis (RB/LB), Derek Phillips (DB/K), Branson Straessle (WR, DB), and Paxton Straessle (WR/DB). Overall, there is plenty for the Warrior faithful to get excited about this season.
9-6 – at Skiatook
9-13 – vs. Pryor
9-20 – at Fort Gibson
9-27 – at Broken Bow
10-4 – vs. Hilldale
10-11 – at Poteau
10-17 – vs. Sallisaw
10-25 – at McLain
11-1 – vs. Ada
11-8 – at Stilwell
