2026 Team Preview: Spring Mills Cardinals

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><em>Get 30% Off Your Subscription with Code PRZWV30 at Checkout!</em></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>2025 SEASON RECAP</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Biggest Losses: WR Zane Wipf (TR) - TE/DL Xavier Anderson - DB Hope Bokwe - DL Abel Meza - RB Blake Sanders DB Isaiah Wang - QB Rylan Swartz - RB Tavion Jones - LB Bradley Butts - OL Kevin Shank</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Spring Mills put together another strong season in 2025, finishing 7-5 and advancing to the Class AAAA quarterfinals. The Cardinals pushed eventual state champion Morgantown to the limit before falling in a tightly contested playoff matchup 34-33 in 2OT. A talented senior class played a major role in that success, leaving several key contributors to replace heading into 2026. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>2026 SCHEDULE</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>8/28: vs Jefferson<br>9/4: at Wheeling Park<br>9/11: at Liberty Christian (VA) <br>9/18: vs Musselman<br>9/25: at Morgantown<br>10/2: at Washington<br>10/16: vs University<br>10/23: vs Martinsburg<br>10/30: at Baldwin (PA)<br>11/6: at Hedgesville</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2025 Record:&nbsp;</strong>7-5 (Playoff Quarterfinals)<br><strong>2026 Prediction</strong>: 6-4</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>2026 OUTLOOK</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The outlook for Spring Mills has changed considerably over the course of the offseason. After graduating a talented senior class, the Cardinals appeared poised to rely heavily on inexperienced players and many unknowns across the roster. That changed with the addition of several key transfers from Hedgesville, who helped address major needs and strengthened the team's overall depth. Those additions have Spring Mills trending in the right direction, and expect the Cardinals to be in the mix to earn a home playoff game this fall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>COLLEGE PROSPECTS TO KNOW</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1635753"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a77091ca8e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>RETURNING STANDOUT</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Spring Mills will turn to 2027 WR/DB [player_tooltip player_id='1635753' first='Douglas' last='Mayer'] as one of its top two-way playmakers this season. Mayer has quietly produced on both sides of the ball throughout his career and enters his senior year with the opportunity to put together his best season yet. His athleticism and versatility allow him to impact the game in multiple ways, making him a focal point for the Cardinals on offense and defense. A strong senior campaign could quickly elevate his recruiting profile and put him on the radar of more college programs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/23054606/692f5aaa733bfca19ff93d96u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d3331356c4"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["861657"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a770920ebe"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>TRANSFER TO KNOW</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>One of the biggest offseason additions in the state was 2027 QB [player_tooltip player_id='861657' first='Chaz' last='Milburn'], who transfers from Hedgesville to take over the Cardinals' offense. Milburn gives Spring Mills an experienced answer at quarterback after the position appeared to be one of the team's biggest question marks entering the offseason. He has always possessed the arm talent and physical tools to succeed, and this change of scenery provides an excellent opportunity to put everything together as a senior. Surrounded by a stronger supporting cast, Milburn has the potential to elevate Spring Mills' offense and produce the breakout senior season we've been anticipating.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/17734914/6971114ffe0d350029e77963u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d333135790"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1810530"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a770920f52"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>TRANSFER TO KNOW</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Another key addition for Spring Mills is 2027 RB [player_tooltip player_id='1810530' first='Chris' last='Williams'], who joins the Cardinals after a productive career at Hedgesville. Williams steps into a favorable situation with the opportunity to take over the starting running back role and help replace an important piece of the offense. He has consistently shown he can produce and now gets the chance to do so with a talented group around him. Williams gives the Cardinals another dependable offensive weapon and has the opportunity to put together a big senior year. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19366501/69586d57e973529892f9f01bu0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d333135814"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1371444"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a770920fbf"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>RETURNING STANDOUT</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Spring Mills returns valuable continuity up front with 2027 OL [player_tooltip player_id='1371444' first='Johnny' last='Droneburg'] back at center for his senior season. After stepping into the starting lineup as a junior, Droneburg earned Second Team All-EPAC honors while establishing himself as a dependable presence in the middle of the offensive line. He consistently wins with strong hand usage, sound leverage, and a physical approach at the point of attack. His experience and steady play will be an important part of the Cardinals' success in the trenches this fall.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/20621798/68e3fff1af386418a710a50cu0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d333135890"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1260051"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a770921086"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>BREAKOUT CANDIDATE</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2027 LB/S [player_tooltip player_id='1260051' first='Jacob' last='Long'] gives Spring Mills another versatile defender with plenty of upside heading into his senior season. Long brings a long 6'1 frame with room to continue adding size, allowing him to impact the game in multiple roles on defense. His ability to play in coverage while also supporting the run makes him a valuable piece for the Cardinals, and his athletic profile gives him intriguing college potential. In his senior year, Long has an opportunity to emerge as one of Spring Mills' top defensive playmakers and continue climbing the rankings.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/20776850/69262da1fa2865c42836a7c4u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d333135908"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2232959"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a770921024"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>TRANSFER TO KNOW</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2027 DB [player_tooltip player_id='2232959' first='Miciah' last='Priller'] gives Spring Mills another quality addition after transferring from Hedgesville this offseason. Priller wasn't on our radar previously, but his junior film quickly stood out with the effort, toughness, and instincts he brings to the secondary. Though undersized, he plays with a relentless motor, flies to the football, and consistently finishes plays in space. He has the opportunity to carve out a significant role on defense while also possessing the versatility to contribute offensively if needed. A strong senior season could quickly move Priller from an under-the-radar addition to one of the better defensive backs in the class.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/Miciah__Priller/status/2051667189292237031","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"x","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-x wp-block-embed-x"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/Miciah__Priller/status/2051667189292237031 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1154708"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a7709210e7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>BREAKOUT CANDIDATE</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2027 ATH [player_tooltip player_id='1154708' first='Kheelan' last='Curry'] enters his senior season with the opportunity to become a much bigger part of Spring Mills' offense. After patiently waiting for his chance, Curry is in position to emerge as a key target in the passing game, particularly from the slot, where his quickness and athleticism can create matchup problems. The multi-sport athlete flashed his playmaking ability as a junior, and the increased opportunities available this fall could lead to a breakout season. Curry gives the Cardinals another versatile weapon capable of making an impact whenever the ball finds his hands.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/20626270/6925bc667e08c7e5745876cau0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d3331359e5"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1211007"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d333135a4e"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>BREAKOUT CANDIDATE</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Spring Mills found one of its next defensive leaders in 2028 LB [player_tooltip player_id='1211007' first='Nolan' last='Forrest'], who earned a starting role as a sophomore and delivered a productive season. As one of the top juniors in the program, Forrest enters the fall with the experience to build on an already strong foundation. He'll take on an even bigger responsibility as the Cardinals' lone returning starting linebacker, putting him in position to lead the defense and contend for postseason honors. A strong junior campaign could bring some postseason accolades this year. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/20837434/69e901e441483e0c88467b21u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d333135a8a"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1624393"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d333135ade"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>BREAKOUT CANDIDATE</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2028 OL [player_tooltip player_id='1624393' first='Hunter' last='Eldridge'] gained valuable experience after stepping into Spring Mills' lineup as a sophomore following his transfer from Martinsburg. His ability to play either guard position gives the Cardinals added flexibility along the offensive line and value in the trenches. With a full season of varsity experience now behind him, Eldridge is well positioned to take another step forward and continue developing into a dependable piece of Spring Mills' offensive front.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/20497263/691fc79898559ebf51335157u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d333135b06"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2086064"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a7709211a4"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>BREAKOUT CANDIDATE</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2029 OL [player_tooltip player_id='2086064' first='Mateo' last='Swayne'] enters his sophomore season as one of the top young offensive linemen in West Virginia after earning a varsity starting role as a freshman. Those early snaps against Class AAAA competition should pay dividends as he continues to develop over the next few years. Swayne already possesses good size and athleticism for the position, giving him the ability to hold down a tackle spot while continuing to refine his technique. With experience already on his side and plenty of upside remaining, Swayne looks positioned to take a step forward in 2026 as a sophomore. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src=u0022https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/26871254/69311bef6f3c5abdcb40f266u0022 width=u0022640u0022 height=u0022360u0022 frameborder=u00220u0022 allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4d333135b85"} /--> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["2173499"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6a4a770921145"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700"><strong>BREAKOUT CANDIDATE</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2029 LB [player_tooltip player_id='2173499' first='Noah' last='Reed'] is one of the top young prospects in Spring Mills' program after an impressive freshman season on JV. A talented two-way athlete, Reed has the ability to contribute at both linebacker and running back, giving the Cardinals plenty of options as he earns a varsity role. His burst and playmaking ability stand out on film, allowing him to make an impact on both sides of the ball. With varsity opportunities likely coming sooner rather than later, Reed is a player we expect to hear much more about over the next three seasons.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:embed {"url":"https://twitter.com/NoahReedwv/status/1977526330079277107","type":"rich","providerNameSlug":"x","responsive":true} --> <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-x wp-block-embed-x"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/NoahReedwv/status/1977526330079277107 </div></figure> <!-- /wp:embed --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>OTHER PLAYERS TO KNOW</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Matthew Nair - 2027 OL</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Timothy Zimmerman - 2027 OL/DL</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Demari Williams - 2029 WR/DB</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Kimari Fisher - 2029 QB/ATH</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Adam Banire - 2029 DB</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->