PLAYERS TO WATCH
Football
Rustyn Cook – El Reno
He is a high-IQ player on both sides of the ball. He leads the offense at quarterback, and on defense, he is the team’s returning leading tackler at outside linebacker.
Jaden O’Neal – Mustang
A senior wide receiver, Jaden will be a key player in Mustang’s success this season.
Scott Logan – Piedmont
Logan will anchor the offensive line and work to keep the defense out of the backfield. He bring strength and physical play to the field.
Destry Lujan – Yukon
Destry was Conference Linebacker of the Year last season. He played every snap on defense while also rushing for over 100 yards in four games. Lujan also excels as a wrestler and in the classroom.
Softball
Izzy Birdsong – El Reno
Izzy returns as one of El Reno’s top statistical leaders from last season, and her fearless mindset sets the tone for this team. She plays with confidence and grit, never backing down from a challenge.
Reese Poage – Mustang
Four-year starter at shortstop, committed to Oklahoma State University. Reese has a cannon for an arm and makes plays that not many other players can make.
Ashlyn Emmert – Piedmont
Ashley will hit in the middle of the lineup and be counted on to drive in runs. Last year, she hit .326 with four doubles, three triples, and three home runs. She had 29 RBIs. She will be the team’s everyday first baseman.
Aiyana Mitchell – Yukon
Yani is an all-around great player. Powerful at the plate, quick when she bunts, great base runner, and very talented fielder.
UNDERCLASSMEN TO WATCH
Football
Grant First, Kobe Little, Kaleb Dennis – El Reno
These three guys all had playing time as freshmen. They should play pivotal roles as sophomores this year
Cooper Clark – Mustang
Cooper is a sophomore and has a lot of potential to be an impact player.
Zayden Khalil – Yukon
Played some varsity as a freshman at wide receiver and should see more time this season. He brings size and athleticism to the position.
Softball
Lily Arnold – El Reno
Lily is a versatile catcher and infielder. She brings intensity, toughness, and a high softball IQ to the field. Behind the plate, she’s fearless, vocal, and in control. At the plate, she’s a powerhouse with the potential to change the game in one swing.
Skyla Hagan – Mustang
Skyla is a sophomore who saw starting varsity opportunities last season as a pitcher, outfielder, and designated player. She looks to continue to fill multiple roles again this season, while taking more of a leadership role from the mound.
Lailah Nelson – Piedmont
Nelson, a sophomore, is a utility kid who can play any position except pitcher. She has great speed and a great arm. Very tough and competitive player. Will be competing for playing time on the infield, outfield, and at catcher.
Ella Walker – Yukon
Ella is an athletic player who can play a lot of different positions on the field. She is one of those players that is able to play wherever her team needs to and help them be successful.
