Young Eagles plan to progress as season moves forward

CULVER — In his 24 years at the helm of the Culver Military Academy football program, head coach Andy Dorrell’s teams have won 6+ games in 13 of those seasons despite a bruising schedule year-in and year-out, as well as usually being a part of a ugged sectional.

Three of those things are the same for 2022 - Dorrell is the coach, the schedule is ormidable, and the sectional brutal - meanng the fourth (6+ wins) is a reasonable goal or the Eagles.

“We are young with limited varsity expeience,” Dorrell said of this year’s roster. “Our goal is to be highly competitive and mprove each week. The first five games of our schedule are extremely challenging. Managing these early season tests will prove o benefit us as we prepare for postseason play.”

Returnees who are expected to be major contributors are (coach comments):

Evan Gerber (TE/DE) – “a large athletic receiver with good speed and a tenacious blocker.”

Roman Snedeker (Slot/CB) – “explosive speed and great competitor with big play potential.”

Kyle Eggebraten – “strong and fast, most experienced of all returning skilled players.”

Henry Martello (OL/DL) – “a Jr. all-state selection at RG last season, has started every game at RG his frosh and soph seasons.”

Ricky Garza (LB) – “physical tackler who we expect to lead our defense.”

Glenn Houghton (HB/LB) – “a strong and fast fearless player who is a great teammate and athlete.”

Foster Stockton (WR/CB) – “a smart player who uses athleticism to be a big playmaker.”

Trey Schumacher (HB/FS) – “a smooth athlete who has great closing speed.”

Tay Rodriguez (QB/RB/CB) – “currently injured, but expect to be big contributor.”

Rory Sullivan (Slot/CB) – “a smooth athlete with great hands and physicality.”

George VanPietersom – “intelligent footwball player with great motor.”

Key newcomers to watch for include:

Michael McColgan (QB) – “a smooth,

PHOTO/MAGGIE NIXON CMA Coach Andy Dorrel talks with his team during tourney play in 2021.