LEIPSIC – The hope is that the sequel is as good as the original.
After spending the last two years at Patrick Henry High School as the Patriots’ head coach, Joe Kirkendall is back at Leipsic as head coach.
Kirkendall had a 52-16 record in six seasons as Leipsic’s coach from 2008-2013 and a trip to the playoffs by the Vikings became an annual expectation.
He replaces Andy Mangas, who left to relocate to Florida.
Leipsic has returning starters at 13 positions and some young players who could be ready to step into bigger roles.
The biggest absence is offensive/defensive lineman Gavin Cupp, who is a freshman on Ohio State’s football team after being first-team All-Ohio last season.
The Vikings’ offense and defense both have a significant amount of experience.
Offensive lineman Jordan Berger and tight end Hunter Meyer are both on track to win their fourth letters this season.
Quarterback Dylan Schroeder started 12 games last year when Leipsic was 6-6 and reached the second round of the playoffs. Schroeder was honorable mention All-Blanchard Valley Conference. Offensive linemen Devin Hiegel and Corey Plassman and wide receiver Hunter Morman are also returning starters.
On defense, linebackers Brayden Niese and Victor Sanchez, defensive backs Nick Schey, Grant Schroeder and Cole Rieman, along with Berger and Meyer, are returning starters. Berger and Rieman were third-team All-BVC.
“We return lots of experience at quarterback and wide receiver. The passing game should be a little ahead,” Kirkendall said.
“There is a lot of youth combined with a new staff. It all comes down to how quickly kids can fall into a routine with the change in style. The offensive line has the potential to be very good and the wide receivers are experienced and above average. Schroeder has all the tools.
“They (the offense) need to carry the defense until experience is gained,” Kirkendall said.
He pointed to linebacker Brayden Niese and defensive back Nick Schey as two potential playmakers on the defense.
“Niese has the opportunity to have a huge year at linebacker. He’s very smart and plays fast. Schey has the athleticism to be a true playmaker in the secondary,” Kirkendall said.
Niese, Meyer and Grant Schroeder were honorable mention All-BVC.
Kirkendall says physicality in the run game and in run defense and fundamentals are elements that are being stressed in preaseason practice.
The Vikings will open at home against Hardin Northern on Friday.
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