A Record-Breaking Campaign
Clever’s football team delivered a historic 2025 season, finishing with nine wins — one more than the combined total of its first five varsity seasons. The surge propelled the program into the conversation about district and conference title contention, a goal explicitly stated by Coach Mac Whitehead.
The schedule began with a jamboree against Aurora and Houston on August 22, followed by the regular‑season opener at Marionville on August 29. Early results set the tone for a campaign marked by steady improvement and growing confidence within the locker room.
Stars of the Offense
Quarterback Brecken Vestal stepped into the starting role after Brayden Baker’s graduation, throwing for 603 yards the previous year and now guiding a balanced attack. Wide receiver Trenton Allen earned first‑team all‑conference honors as a sophomore, leading the squad with 36 catches for 741 yards.
Running back Kendall Piper assumed lead‑back duties in his senior season, carrying the ball 53 times for 341 yards. Tight end and defensive end Brayden Flood also made headlines, collecting first‑team all‑conference recognition at both positions while anchoring the defense.
Defensive Momentum
The defensive line featured seven starters, with Flood’s pass‑rushing ability producing 20 tackles for a loss. Safety Tysyn Clark added a second‑team all‑conference nod, underscoring the unit’s depth and playmaking potential.
Coach Whitehead emphasized that the defense’s athleticism and experience would be crucial in maintaining the team’s upward trajectory against traditional rivals.
Community Momentum
Beyond the varsity squad, the success has filtered down to junior high and peewee programs, generating a palpable buzz across the town. Parents, alumni, and local businesses have rallied around the team, turning each Friday night into a community celebration.