The Zeeland West Dux have emerged from a season that saw them finish 8‑4 and punch their ticket to the Division 3 regional final, a milestone that has set the tone for the upcoming campaign. Head coach Jeff Bolhouse, who took over after the retirement of Hall of Fame mentor John Shillito, believes the team’s recent achievements provide a solid foundation for continued growth.
A blend of experience and talent
At the core of the offense is a seasoned line anchored by center Jace Henry, an all‑conference selection whose blocking prowess creates multiple running lanes for the Wing‑T/Power‑T scheme. Fullback Brandon Holman, a first‑team all‑state running back, returns with 1,262 rushing yards, 18 touchdowns, 420 receiving yards and six scores, while also contributing 135 tackles, four interceptions and a kickoff return touchdown. His ability to make a buzzer‑beating catch in the playoffs last year underscores his clutch performance.
The secondary will benefit from the return of Logan Nash alongside Holman, a combination that produced nine interceptions and 170 tackles a year ago. Their presence is expected to tighten pass coverage and generate additional turnover opportunities, a key factor in the team’s defensive aspirations.
Experience is not limited to the seniors; a core group of players with two years of varsity exposure brings cohesion and a shared understanding of the playbook. This continuity is viewed as a competitive edge, allowing the Dux to execute complex formations with precision.
Health and depth
The primary challenge facing the squad is maintaining player health. With a smaller roster but high‑quality talent, any injury could disrupt the lineup, prompting the coaching staff to prioritize conditioning and develop depth at every position.
The Dux have been a dominant program in Zeeland West for two decades, excelling in running defense and blocking. Building on the legacy left by John Shillito, the team aims to translate its recent success into deeper playoff runs while preserving the culture of excellence that has defined the program.