Western Enters Season with New Head Coach; Seeking Conference Title

Photos by Karson Durocher, JTV Sports

Trey Richmond | JTV Sports

Thursday August 7th

(8-7-2025, 10:00AM): After a 6-4 season (4-2 in conference play) and an 8th straight playoff appearance, the Western Panthers seek to secure the conference title in 2025.

Cody Bentley is entering his first year with the Panthers as the head coach. He comes in with experience of 4 years as their defensive coordinator and another 4 years as Homer’s DC. His players said he brings “great energy, it is unmatched everyday.”

Some key returning players are Cole Archer (EDGE), Jayden Willis (RB/S), Jack Barnes (WR/DB), and Max Harris (OL/DL).

Panther newcomers expected to make an impact include Lincoln Levy (QB), and Gavin Ethridge (OL/DL).

Josh Kubiak, former head coach of Columbia Central, will be taking over as the Offensive Coordinator and HC Cody Bentley will continue to handle the duties of defensive coordinator.

The Panthers won their conference back in 2020 with the condensed COVID season, but Bentley and his team look to claim the first full season conference title since 1975.

Only returning 3 starters on each side of the ball, but the Panthers are bringing size to the table on both sides.

2025 Parma Western Football Schedule (all games at 7pm)

THU 8/28 vs Jackson (LIVE ON JTV and JTV.TV)

9/5 vs Traverse City Central

9/12 @ Marshall

9/19 vs Hastings

9/26 vs Coldwater (Homecoming)

10/3 @ Battle Creek Harper Creek

10/10 vs Northwest (LIVE ON JTV and JTV.TV)

10/17 @ Haslett

10/24 @ Battle Creek Pennfield