Written by: Will Hoenike
Head coach Josh Leighton and his Lapwai Wildcats are going to find out very early what they’re made of. After opening with a non-conference game against 1A Division 2 foe Timberline of Weippe on August 25, the Wildcats next three games are all against teams expected to compete for the 1A Division 1 Whitepine League title – at Kamiah on September 1, home for Clearwater Valley on September 15 following a bye week, then in Moscow against Logos on September 22.
If Leighton’s crew can keep its head above water through those contests, you can put their name front and center in the 1A Division 1 state playoff conversation.
For the second straight season, Lapwai will have to replace the Whitepine League’s Offensive Player of the Year. Two years ago, it was Titus Yearout. Last year, it was Terrell Ellenwood-Jones. Can incoming freshman Jereese McCormack fill those big shoes?
The good news is he has a supporting cast that should keep him from needing to shoulder too much of the load. Senior Ahlius Yearout, who has been a steady contributor since enrolling at Lapwai High, will be there as will fellow senior Quinten Kipp. Those two will give McCormack options with the football while seniors Layson Morrell and Leland Whitefoot return along the offensive line to provide protection.
The Wildcats put 480 points on the scoreboard last season, including four games of over 60 points. The offense may not be quite as explosive last season but should be able to put points on the board with the skill players returning. If the defense, with Kipp and Yearout in the middle of it, can provide enough stops, Lapwai should be competitive in 2023.