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LAUREL — The LCC Bears will face always-tough Guardian Angels Central Catholic in Friday’s season-opener at Haskell Field.
The Bluejays are coming off of a stellar 2024 season in which they ran the table in the regular season and won a first-round playoff game to finish the year at 9-1.
The Bears have five returning starters on both sides of the ball to help new head coach Izak Reifen rath improve on their 1-7 season record of 2024.
Drey Puppe, a 6-1, 160-pound sophomore is expected to lead the offensive attack. The all-around athlete hauled in 21 catches last year for 276 yards and three touchdowns.
Also returning at wide receiver is 6-1, 160-pound junior Tanner Thompson.
The Jays are undergoing a bit of a rebuilding project, though, as this year’s team returns just one player with starting experience. GACC will also feature a young team as only three seniors are on this year’s roster.
GACC’s lone returning starter is senior guard Maverik Smith. The 5-9, 200-pounder is a returning all-district player. Juniors Barrett Steffen (6-2, 190) and Tristan Steffen (5-9, 160) are expected to earn starting roles in the interior line.
Isaac Guenther, 5-9, 160-pound senior, started a couple of games last season and now becomes the full-time starter at quarterback.
Luke Guenther, a 6-0, 150-pound junior is expected to lead the ground attack. He rushed for 191 yards and two touchdowns last season in a back-up role.
