By David Rice
JTV Sports
(August 22, 2023 2:00 PM ET) Head Coach Jeremy Killinger and his team missed the playoffs, despite finishing 6-3 last season (first winning record in six years), which makes them want to do more this season.
“We want to return to the playoffs and win a district title this year. Being without a conference will be different, so we will look to refine some of our other goals,” said Killinger.
The team motto for this season is “move the chains” and the primary focus is staying the course and fixing little things for Stockbridge. Mental toughness and community service are big keys as well.
Stockbridge has 10 of 11 starters returning on offense along with eight on defense. Key returners include senior QB Jalen Rogozinski, Drew Robinson (RB/CB), Zac Rogozinski (LB/RB), Joey Ballagh (WR/DB/K), and Zach Fletcher (TE/DL).
Newcomers expected to make an impact include juniors Braiden Royal (OL/DL), Josiah Muzzin (WR/DB), Shannon Henderson (WR/DB, stands at 6”7), and linemen Nick Graves and Issac Reifschneider.
Their week two rivalry matchup against Leslie will mark the 113th matchup all-time between the two schools, which has become intense and fiery over the years. Leslie has defeated them four years straight (7-6 last year) and they look to take the rivalry back.
Stockbridge’s onside kick success is also another key they look to capitalize on even more in the 2023 campaign.
Coach Jeremy Killinger, entering his 22nd season at the helm, opens the season with two road games (@ Springport then the Leslie rivalry)
Stockbridge Panthers 2023 Football Schedule:
8/25 @ Springport
8/31 @ Leslie
9/8 vs Manchester
9/15 vs Hart (@ Olivet University)
9/22 @ Bath
9/29 vs Saranac
10/6 @ Perry
10/13 vs Whitmore Lake
10/20 vs Dansville
