By David Rice
JTV Sports
(August 21, 2023 2:00 PM ET) Northwest finished above .500 in 2022 for the first time since 2013 and was one of just a handful of schools that just missed out on the playoffs, but they have a bigger goal this year.
“Prove it! Our seniors tasted a little bit of success last year, but now it’s time to prove it,” said Head Coach Stafford Newsome, entering his 2nd year at the helm.
This year’s Interstate 8 conference is being viewed as more open and competitive, “to pick just one team wouldn’t be realistic,” Newsome added.
Key returners for Northwest include Carter Fairley (RB/S), who carries a 3.9 GPA and was all-conference in 2022. Kaden Gattshall, JJ Miller (OT/DE), and Charles Simpkins (WR/HB) are also key returners for the Mounties.
Newcomers expected to make an impact include Jake Brafford (OT/DE), Gabe Christner (QB) who played as the JV starter in 2022, and Rylan Johnson (WR/RB).
Jake Greer is returning for the second year as the defensive coordinator, along with eight returning starters. “He’s a great defensive coach and has a wonderful connection with his players,” said Stafford Newsome. “A brother from another mother,” speaking on his close relationship with Coach Greer.
Program numbers include approximately 30 on varsity and 80 total within the program. Goals for 2023 include making over the hump into the playoffs. “To accomplish that, we have to stay together as a team, as one unit.”
“Last year was a foundational year for the program..but this year we have to PROVE IT.”
Northwest Mounties 2023 Schedule:
8/25 vs Tecumseh
8/31 vs Adrian Madison
9/8 vs Battle Creek Harper Creek
9/15 @ Battle Creek Pennfield
9/22 @ Parma Western
9/29 vs Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard
10/6 @ Coldwater
10/13 @ Hastings
10/20 vs Marshall
