The LeRoy Panthers are poised for a rebound after a season that saw them finish 4‑3 before two late defeats knocked them out of playoff contention. Head coach BJ Zeleznik, entering his 24th year at the helm, is betting on experience and preparation to chase the 14th postseason appearance of his career.
Returning quarterback Brett Helfrich will once again anchor the offense, leveraging his familiarity with the triple‑option system. Alongside him, the offensive line features holdovers Isaac Holoch, Rilen Kisner and Brock Hubble, while senior Tyler Codding steps in to replace graduating center Nate McKinney.
Schedule and Outlook
The Panthers open the season at home against Tremont on September 5, a game that will be followed by three road trips in the first four weeks. Zeleznik notes that the Heart of Central Illinois Conference Small Division may prove more competitive than the Large Division, setting the stage for a tight race.
A culture of daily preparation has taken hold, with 45 of 47 players consistently attending offseason workouts. Home games at L.A. McKean Field draw enthusiastic crowds, adding a palpable energy that the team hopes to ride into the new season.
Looking Ahead
With a blend of seasoned seniors and promising underclassmen, the Panthers aim to translate their strong work ethic into on‑field success. The coaching staff believes that the experience gained last year will be the foundation for a deeper playoff run in 2026.
Coach Zeleznik emphasizes that every practice, every drill and every weight session is approached with the same intensity as a game day. That mindset, he says, is what will ultimately separate the Panthers from their rivals.