RETURNING STANDOUT

2028 Valley QB/ATH Gaige Wichterman is settling into a more defined role as the Lumberjacks hand him the reins at quarterback as a junior. Wichterman saw time at both quarterback and running back last season and flashed as a sophomore to give Valley confidence in making him the full-time option under center. His athleticism gives the offense a quarterback who can keep defenses honest with his legs while continuing to develop as a passer. Moving Wichterman to quarterback also allows Koleton Kinkade to settle in at running back full time, which could prove to be a great move for the Lumberjacks. Wichterman had a productive sophomore season and should build on that experience as he takes on a bigger role in 2026.

Gaige Wichterman Gaige Wichterman 5'10" | 160 lbs | RB/ATH Valley | 2028 WV is one of those underclassmen who continues to trend upward as he gains experience in the Valley program. The 2028 athlete earned All OVAC Honorable Mention recognition as a sophomore and has the type of multi-sport background that often points to long-term development. At 5’10 160, he brings a lean athletic frame and comes from a family with strong athletic ties, which usually shows up in competitiveness and work ethic. His basketball background adds another layer to his overall athletic profile and suggests natural movement skills that can translate well on the football field. Wichterman has the potential to move beyond honorable mention recognition and position himself for higher postseason honors as he develops into one of the more intriguing athletes in their program.