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<p>Westonka enters the 2025 season with optimism, coming off a strong finish last year where the team peaked right before the playoffs. Many returning starters who saw significant playing time will be counted on to step up in larger roles this season. Offensively, Westonka remains committed to an option-based attack, maintaining the base principles and foundation that have been in place for some time. </p>
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<p>Here are some players to watch: </p>
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<p>Leading the offensive line is <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1602779' first='Phillip' last='Pisarchuk']</strong>, a 6'7”, 315-pound powerhouse and highly regarded recruit with a high ceiling. Alongside him is <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1666364' first='Dawson' last='Leinfelder']</strong>, a tenacious 6-foot, 215-220-pound starter known for his aggression, high motor, and nose for the ball on defense as well. Leinfelder's explosive and physical style of play on the football field is a direct result of his wrestling background, which includes a state appearance at heavyweight. </p>
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<p>New to the line is sophomore <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1248648' first='Owen' last='Dillon']</strong>, a 6-foot, 240-pound athlete who started late last season and is expected to step in at center. Senior <strong>Andrew Hoisington</strong>, who played H-back last season, will shift to tackle. Hoisington is a dynamic two-way player, contributing on both the offensive line and linebacker.</p>
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<p>In the backfield, running back <strong>Blake Reinhold</strong> returns after starting the majority of last season as a sophomore. Reinhold is known for his quickness, elusiveness, and twitchy style, providing a dangerous option in the run game. Senior <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='551315' first='Cade' last='Newell']</strong> will be a first-year starter who has served as backup for a couple of years and also played corner last season. Newell is ready to take command of the offense and drive the team's balanced attack. </p>
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<p>The defense is led by three-year starter <strong>Brandt Tebbs</strong> in the secondary, a hard-hitting player who brings physicality and experience. <strong>Hoisington</strong> will also be a key contributor at linebacker, while<strong> Langfelder</strong> and<strong> Pisarchuk</strong> will provide leadership and depth to the front seven.<br></p>
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Westonka enters the 2025 season with optimism, coming off a strong finish last year where the team peaked right before the playoffs. Many returning starters who saw significant playing time will be counted on to step up in larger roles this season. Offensively, Westonka remains committed to an option-based attack, maintaining the base principles and foundation that have been in place for some time.
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