A Season of Expectations
The Branson Pirates are poised to defend their Ozark Mountain Conference crown for a third straight year, entering the 2026 season with a roster built around a core of returning starters. Coach Aaron Hafner has highlighted the importance of kicking and player development as the team prepares for a highly anticipated rivalry showdown with Harrison, Ark., scheduled for August 28.
A 7‑3 finish in the previous campaign, which ended with a playoff loss to Neosho, has left the Pirates hungry for redemption. The coaching staff is focused on rebuilding key positions, especially the offensive line and defensive backfield, while maintaining the aggressive style that defined their recent successes.
Quarterback Vicente Pastrana returns for his senior year after starting every game in 2025, delivering a 5.5‑yard average per carry and 15 touchdowns. He will be joined by senior running backs Blake Webber, who posted a 12.1‑yard average and seven scores, and junior fullback Noah McCright, who contributed 709 yards and nine touchdowns.
The offensive line features returning senior center Sawyer Wilkes alongside junior Max Davis, while the coaching staff is evaluating seniors Daegan Cruz, Wesley Reina, Anderson Newton and Isaac Nunez for the remaining starting spots. Sophomore Bryson Clark is slated as the backup quarterback, adding depth to the backfield.
Defensively, the line welcomes back end Eli Renzi, who recorded 29 tackles and six for loss as a junior, and senior James Diehls, who returns from a shoulder injury. First‑team All‑Conference linebacker Sam Vejraska and Boston Maiwelmal are expected to anchor the middle, with Jay‑Z Brown also in the mix for starting roles.
In the secondary, second‑team All‑Conference defensive back Tred Houston returns to start at wide receiver, while safety Casey Giles adds experience. Sophomore Korbin Mullen and freshman Calvin Petri are competing for the free safety position, and Bryson Clark may see time at defensive back as well.
Special teams will rely on kicker Rhory Webber, who took over kicking duties last season and emphasized the importance of precision in high‑school football. The team hopes his reliability will be a factor in close games.
The schedule opens with a home matchup against Harrison, Ark., expected to draw 3,000‑4,000 fans, followed by a road trip to Rolla in Week 2. Ozark Mountain Conference play begins September 11 at Marshfield, setting the stage for a demanding but promising season.