An old saying goes that the best football teams don’t rebuild, they reload. SMCHS was no exception last year as they faced the challenge of living up to the expectation of the State Championship and number one ranked teams that preceded them. They did well going 4-6, 4 wins and 6 losses, with almost every game coming down to the wire.

One big factor on that team was senior running back Jeremy McNichols. McNichols transferred from Lakewood High School to SMCHS for only his senior season, and immediately made an impact on the team. Using his size, speed and athleticism, he accumulated over 1100 total yards and ten touchdowns, making him the team’s leader in rushing yard, while also returning kicks during the season.

His long runs and ankle-breaking jukes dazzled the crowd and he quickly became a fan favorite. When the season ended he took his talents to Boise State and is now playing football there.

His leave opens the door for other students to come in and try to live up to his legacy. This year, there a several new faces added to the team including junior running back Dre Hall, junior wide receivers Noah Rasheed and Maxx Lewis, offensive lineman/long-snapper Grant Jaffe and defensive end Alec Stewart.

“I love it when we get new players,” said senior defensive end Stash Rowley. “It is exciting to see how they fit into our team.”

Hall came to the Eagle’s from J.W. North High School and is highly regarded for his tough and physical running style. Coming in at number eight on OC Varsity’s Top Ten Running Backs, he is going to be counted on to have a major role in this year’s running game.

“I came to SM because I wanted to play football at a very high level,” Hall said. “I also came because I want a better education.”

Hall was the first transfer to come to the team this season and his teammates were in awe of his size and strength.

“I can’t wait to see Dre play this season,” said senior offensive lineman Jack Jennison. “He is going to be super hard to tackle and will just run people over.”

Dre had a successful first game running and receiving the ball well. He also scored his first touchdown of the season.

Rasheed came from Mission High School and played mostly basketball there, averaging 10 points per game. He brought his talents to the football field when the coaches saw his athletic ability.

“I was stoked when I heard that Noah was coming to SM,” said senior wide receiver Connor Bianchini. “I can already tell he is going to have a huge impact on our team.”

On the football field, Rasheed is lightning fast and will prove to be a very good option for quarterback KJ Costello to throw to.

“I just want to contribute to the team any way that I can,” Rasheed said. “I want to help our team reach our goal of a Trinity League title.”

Rasheed had an impact on the first game with two receptions and also played some cornerback for the Eagles defense.

Jaffe came to the team during the summer as well. He looks to play offensive line for the Eagles and maybe be their long snapper

“I came to SM for the great football and outstanding community,” Jaffe said. “I can’t wait to help the team succeed any way that I can this season.”

Jaffe has been helping the Eagles with his ability to run the opposing teams offense to help prepare them for Friday nights.

Stewart joined the team in late summer. He is 6’5” and 215 lbs and he uses that big frame very well on the field making big hits quiet often at practice.

“Alec has got the making of becoming a very good player for us this year,” Rowley said. “He’s big, strong and has got the aggression to make big plays.”

Stewart is in the mix to be in the rotation at the defensive line and may also see some time at tight end.

The newest member to the team is Maxx Lewis. Like Rasheed, Lewis came to the team from Mission High School.

“You see him run right by defenders without even trying,” said junior Jerome Bohuslavizki. “It is really impressive to watch, I wish I had some of his speed.”

Pair lightning speed with his quick feet and crisp route running and he is a formidable receiver that will fit perfectly in the Eagle’s offense.

This year’s transfer students are talented and are ready to make an impact on games when the season comes around. The SMCHS football team has successfully reloaded and fans will see it come week one this season.