The Viborg-Hurley 7th/8th Grade Cougar football team wrapped up its season with an overall record of 3-7, gaining valuable experience and contributions from players on both sides of the ball throughout the year.
Leading the Cougar offense were Turner Van Hull, Lachlan Kessler, Clayton Lyons, and Dax Benson. Van Hull led the team with seven touchdowns, while Lyons added five touchdowns to help pace the Cougar attack.
Creating opportunities for the offense up front were Zayden O'Dell, Crew Nelsen, Francis Bagola, Riley Buseman, Lincoln Mellem, and Landry Petersen. Their work in the trenches helped open running lanes and give the Cougar playmakers opportunities to make plays.
Defensively, the Cougars were led by a strong linebacking corps featuring Lyons, Kessler, and Benson. Van Hull and Briggs Hauger provided pass coverage, while Mellem and Petersen helped contain opposing offenses along the edges.
The Cougars also showed strength against the run, particularly up the middle. Crew Nelsen, Francis Bagola, Oliver Steele, and Julius Haywood helped make it difficult for opposing teams to find running room between the tackles. Hauger led the Cougar defense with four interceptions on the season, making a significant impact in the secondary.
Other players who contributed throughout the season included Hudson Hoesing, Aiden Lagler, Tre Robinson, and Blake Carithers, whose efforts helped support the team throughout the year.
Despite finishing 3-7, the Cougars gained valuable experience, developed their skills, and continued building a strong foundation for the Viborg-Hurley football program.
Back Row: Clayton Lyons, Riley Buseman, Lachlan Kessler, Crew Nelsen, Francis Bagola, Blake Carithers, Landry Petersen, Dax Benson, Briggs Hauger
Front Row: Julius Haywood, Aiden Lagler, Oliver Steele, Turner Van Hull, Lincoln Mellem, Hudson Hoesing, Zayden O'Dell, Tre Robinson (Not Pictured)