The Washburn Ichabods finished the 2025 campaign with a series of heartbreaking defeats, each decided by fourteen points or less, leaving the squad with a painful but instructive record.
Head coach Zach Watkins framed those results as a natural part of a program in its inaugural year, noting that competing closely in tight games is an expected learning curve for any new system.
Building on Early Lessons
Watkins emphasized that the team’s focus now is on translating those near‑wins into actual victories by tightening execution in critical moments and fostering a culture of resilience.
Running back Jaden Abongo Jr. echoed the sentiment, describing the offseason work as a collective effort to refine technique, deepen chemistry and approach each contest with the confidence that a close game can swing in their favor.
The Ichabods open the 2026 season on Saturday at 6 p.m. against Truman State, a matchup that will serve as the first test of whether the lessons from 2025 have translated into tangible progress on the field.