Looking forward to a great season, MV’s varisty Rams kicked off with a head to head at
Waterloo on August 29.

MV’s football team is ready to hit the ground running this season.

After a tough year, players and coaches are focused on improvement and growth.

“I just wanna do better from last year,” said running back Jashawn Staples, ‘27,

Coach Dan Mings expressed confidence in the team’s unity.

“I think we have a great group of players that care about each other and will give all they have,” stated Mings.

Quarterback Cassmen Hughes, ‘27, is optimistic about what lies ahead.

“I’m just ready to have a good season,” added Hughes.

 Teamwork is at the core of MV’s approach.

“Teamwork is everything,” Staples said.

Mings explained the complexity of coordinating the team.

“Being able to coordinate 11 different positions to work in unison is the most crucial part,” Mings said.

Kylon Brown, ‘27, a team leader, emphasized the collective spirit.

“We are all like leaders,” Brown said.

Hughes underscored the interdependence of players.

“You can’t win the game by yourself,” Hughes said.

The team knows areas for improvement are key.

“Forgetting the play that happened before,” said Staples, “is something we need to work on.”

Mings believes physicality and tackling need focus.

“We have great athleticism and intelligence, but we need to be more physical,” Mings said.

Hughes kept it simple.

“We need improvement on everything. You can never be too good at anything,” Hughes said.

Communication remains a priority.

Brown stressed, “Communication is vital.”

The team’s strengths lie in speed and intelligence.

“Our team speed and intelligence are our strengths,” said Mings.

Hughes highlighted the offense.

“We run the ball really well with guys like Jashawn, me, and Zay,” Hughes said.

Holden Burns, ‘28, a key lineman, noted improvements up front.

“Our O-line is better than last year,” Burns said.

Football means more than just a game to these players.

“It is what I love,” said Staples.

Brown spoke about the brotherhood.

“I have played football since I was a kid; it just spoke to me,” Brown said.

Mings enjoys the challenge and complexity of the sport.

“I love how complicated it is and how aggressive the sport can be,” Mings said.

As the season begins, excitement and motivation run high.

“Feels great. Last season wasn’t good, but we want a better season,” said Hughes.

Staples has high hopes.

“Playoffs,” Staples said simply.

The team is focused on one game at a time.

“We approach it all one game at a time,” said Mings.

Staples is especially looking forward to facing Cahokia.

The team’s chemistry has been strong so far.

“Beautiful and strategic,” Staples described it.

Pre-game rituals help keep the players grounded.

“I pray before I play,” said Staples

The lessons learned on the field extend beyond football.

“Overcoming adversity and communication are key,” said Mings.

Motivation during tough times comes from leadership and camaraderie.

“The players motivate me because I know how hard football is,” said Mings.

For many, the team is family.

“These guys are my family,” Staples said.

Mount Vernon football is ready to build on brotherhood, teamwork, and dedication for a promising season ahead.

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