Much like the varsity team, the Panthers’ sub-varsity football squads have seen great success and progress in 2020.

Powell High School’s junior varsity and froshmore teams have combined for a 5-1 record this year, winning four contests by double digits. Most recently, the Panthers won a road contest against Lovell 7-6 in a combined game with JV and froshmore players.

Coach Zack Coombs said he’s been most impressed by the team’s devotion to getting better before and during the season.

“They are committed to the game of football,” Coombs said. “Many of these players attended all of our off season practices, and many of the froshmores were committed to the weight room this summer.”

Over the course of the season, the coaching staff has seen the sub-varsity squads develop steadily — both in performance and team cohesion.

“I’ve seen them grow the most in speed and consistency,” coach Sean Munger said. “These guys are running each play faster and with more attention to detail and I’m really looking forward to seeing that kind of growth from them each year.”

Coombs added, “The team has learned how to trust each other throughout the year. This is the first time the sophomores and freshmen have played together as a team because in middle school they play on separate seventh and eighth grade teams.”

Countless players have seen their skill sets improve throughout the season. While gaining more experience at the high-school level, the JV and froshmore players have learned how to be more competitive.

There have been a few standouts. Coombs noted quarterbacks Nathan Feller and Jhett Schwahn, fullback/linebacker Brock Johnson, tight end Austin Graft, receiver Simon Shoopman and linemen Seston Shoopman and Wyatt Blackmore as some of the team’s leaders.

Munger praised Schwahn as well, citing his ability to lead by example. “There are a lot of people that can play football, but not everybody can lead,” he said.

As these players continue developing, they will make their way to the next level: varsity. And the coaching staff feels confident that the kids will be ready to make that jump when the time comes.

“We have a bunch of young guys who love the game of football,” Coombs said. “If this continues, many of these players will develop into strong varsity players.”

Munger added, “We’re excited about the athleticism these kids bring, but more than anything I’m excited about the intensity they have for football. Every play they are screaming to the ball and making things happen.”

The Panthers’ froshmore team will wrap up its season at home against Jackson on Friday, Oct. 16 at 2 p.m.