A Fresh Start in the Upper Peninsula
After years of narrowly missing a winning record, the Hancock Bulldogs are pinning their hopes on a new direction under first-year head coach Brenden LeClaire. LeClaire, who arrived from a nearby high school program, has emphasized unity and steady progress as the team’s guiding principles.
The roster blends seasoned starters with a wave of underclassmen eager to prove themselves. Senior right tackle Jasper Towles, who has been a mainstay on the line for three seasons, says the group feels more cohesive than ever, while quarterback Ben Keranen returns for his final year as the team’s signal‑caller.
Keranen’s experience adds stability to an offense that has worked extensively on improving its line play. LeClaire notes that the offensive line’s development has been one of the most encouraging aspects of preseason workouts, setting the stage for a more balanced attack.
The Bulldogs open the season on August 27 at Mountaineer Stadium, hosting Iron Mountain at 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The matchup marks the first test of LeClaire’s system and offers a clear measure of how quickly the team can translate its off‑field chemistry into on‑field results.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, the program’s community spirit remains a cornerstone. Players and coaches alike speak of a shared commitment to representing Hancock with pride, and the town’s support has been palpable throughout the offseason.