Written by: Dallin Fryar
After back-to-back postseason appearances in the 3A ranks, the Wood River Wolverines, under the guidance of Head Coach Shane Carden, are preparing for a year of both challenge and opportunity.
With Carden entering his sixth year as head coach, the team is bracing for significant transitions. Key returning players like senior Sully Carter, a versatile TE/DE, and senior Cash Hunter, who contributes as a WR/DB, will be pivotal. Junior Will Adams is expected to take on a critical role at linebacker, stepping into the Mike position with the potential to anchor the defense.
However, the team faces the daunting task of filling the shoes of several key players from last season. Several playmakers graduated in 2023 including Kyle Ipsen, a dynamic QB/DB, leaving a notable gap in leadership and playmaking ability. The loss of Gavin Hunter, a top receiver and return specialist, and Caleb Hothem, the leading tackler for the past three years, will be deeply felt.
On the offensive side, new quarterback Wylder Grafft was praised by Coach Carden in regard to his intelligence and leadership.
The offense will embrace a more versatile approach, featuring tight ends more prominently than in past seasons, with a goal to boost their scoring output. Defensively, Wood River is known for preventing big plays, and the focus will be on increasing pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Emerging players like sophomore Axel Oelerich will impact the team. Oelerich is expected to make significant contributions as a WR/DB. Coach Carden is particularly excited about identifying new leaders and playmakers, emphasizing that team health will be a critical factor in their success this season.
In the conference landscape, Wood River is ranked third in the preseason poll, behind Kimberly and Buhl, with Filer seen as a potential surprise team. The season promises to be one of growth and adaptation for Wood River as they navigate a competitive conference and seek to build on the last couple of seasons.
The Wolverines begin their 2024 campaign on August 23rd with a trip to Caldwell before returning for their home opener the following week against McCall-Donnelly. They will open conference play at home against Filer on September 20th.