Written by: Brandon Baney
After one of Pocatello High’s most decorated senior classes in some time donned their graduation robes this past spring, a new era begins in 2024.
But we’re feeling nostalgic, so let’s reflect one final time on some of the names that won’t be around this season: Julian Bowie, Dre Contreras, Kudter Stucki, Carson Christensen, Ryken EchoHawk, Devin Rodriguez, Parker Smith, Garett Keller, Dawson Walsh, Tommy Smith, etc.
That’s a lot of talent to replace. But tenth-year head coach Dave Spillett is up to the challenge.
He’ll welcome back two All-Conference players from last year’s 7-3 squad that fell by ten points to eventual state champion Bishop Kelly in the semifinals. Senior Hunter May was an All-Conference wide receiver and defensive back, while senior Kyle Orr earned All-Conference honors on the offensive line.
Beyond that, Pocatello will look to its bench pieces and JV squad members from 2023 to fill in the rest of the lineup. The quarterback battle, in particular, could be interesting. May started at the QB as a sophomore before playing wideout last year, and junior Tavin Williams has also taken snaps under center in previous seasons.
The schedule won’t be forgiving. There’s the non-conference games with Skyview, Sandpoint, Twin Falls and 6A Highland, all playoff teams a year ago. Highland is the reigning 6A champion.
But what really counts are two October contests against South East Idaho Conference foes Preston and Century. The Thunder will be in Preston October 18th, before hosting the Diamondbacks in the season finale on October 25th.