Written by: Brandon Baney
On September 24th, 2021, the Orofino Maniacs traveled to Marsing and turned back the Huskies in a 31-0 non-conference defeat. No one knew it at the time, but that was the last time Orofino tasted victory.
The Maniacs have lost 17 games since then. They’ve also learned that loss of life is far greater than any loss on the field. What was shaping up to a be a promising season a year ago was cruelly cut short when quarterback Drew Hanna, about to enter his senior year of high school, tragically passed away in a car accident. Understandably, his Maniac teammates were distraught, but in his honor, they trudged on through an 0-7 season that meant so much more than just wins and losses.
Now entering his third season at the helm, Orofino coach Jake Maetche is brimming with enthusiasm. “We have a large number of seniors coming out who either have not played since junior high, or have not played at all,” says Maetche. “They are all tough, strong, and fast kids. Our X-factor will be their ability to contribute on the field.”
There are lots of job openings for the newcomers, especially on offense. Among the departed are starting running back Nolan Williams, leading receiver Landon Hudson, and four starting linemen.
“We will run a balanced offense based upon deception and speed,” coach Maetche says. “Aiden Olive and Jake Scott are returning and we expect them to lead the way, with Declan Crockett slinging the ball.”
Olive played quarterback, running back and wide receiver a year ago, but will mostly play out wide in 2024. Scott will take over primary running back duties, with junior Johnny Starrs also expected to contribute there. All of that talent hinges on a new group of linemen gelling quickly, though.
“We have several new faces showing up on the offensive line, and we will need several of those kids to step up and fill the voids,” says Maetche. “I expect big things from this new crop of HOGS.”
Sophomore Ray Starrs is the only returning starter up front. Seniors Leland Rukavina, Malakai Forbes and Gage Treishman will all be counted on to step in to the starting lineup and produce.
There are fewer spots available on defense, as All-League linebacker Edward Harrison is back for his senior season. “Edward has been the heart of the defense the past few years,” says Maetche.
Johnny Starrs and senior John Wicks will join Harrison at linebacker. Ray Starrs and Rukavina will lead the defensive line, while senior Hunter Gamble brings good tackling to the secondary.
And Olive may be the secret weapon for Orofino’s defense. “Aiden can wreak havoc all over the field,” says Maetche. “It can be from the defensive backfield, linebacker, or even defensive end.”
Overall, this is a group of young men that have had to learn tough life lessons much earlier than usual. After the tragedy of last season, their bonds have only been strengthened.
“I am really excited about the chemistry of our kids,” says Maetche. “We have some great leaders and they have a ton of respect for each other and their coaches. This season will be a lot of fun hanging with the guys and playing some football!”