A Fresh Start on the Gridiron
Friday night will mark the first-ever football contest for Deer Creek High School, as the newly assembled team prepares to host Mountain Crest at 7 p.m. The matchup, timed with Labor Day weekend and the town’s Swiss Days celebration, has already drawn considerable attention from local fans eager to see a new chapter in high school sports.
At the helm is DeShawn Perkins, who spent several years coaching the secondary at Wasatch High School before accepting the Deer Creek position just after Christmas 2023. Perkins brings a deep-rooted connection to Utah football, having played college ball at Idaho State, Utah Tech and Dixie State before turning to coaching.
Building a roster from scratch proved challenging. With facilities only becoming available on June 1, Perkins initially conducted practices at Wasatch’s fields while he recruited players from both schools. The resulting squad blends seasoned Wasatch veterans with less experienced athletes drawn from Deer Creek’s basketball, lacrosse and baseball programs, creating a diverse mix of talent.
The team’s composition reflects the school’s relative seniority advantage; Deer Creek fields 17 seniors compared to Wasatch’s three, a factor that could influence the dynamics of the rivalry. Both programs compete in the 4A classification, while Wasatch previously competed in the larger 5A division, adding a subtle layer of narrative to the contest.
Perkins has been vocal about his priorities, emphasizing player development and community impact over immediate championship aspirations. He describes his personal ‘state championship’ as the moment a player graduates, underscoring a long‑term vision that aligns with the school’s educational mission.
Unity between the two schools is a central theme. Perkins has stressed that there will be no ill will between the programs, framing the game as a celebration of shared values rather than a battle for dominance. This sentiment resonates with players and supporters alike, who anticipate a spirited yet respectful atmosphere.
Key contributors on the receiving corps include Jake Woolsenhulme and Lance Simpson, both of whom have drawn praise for their speed and route running. Their performances will be closely watched as the team makes its debut on the field.
Beyond the game itself, the weekend’s schedule adds a festive backdrop. The Labor Day holiday and Midway’s Swiss Days are expected to draw a sizable crowd, providing the young program with its first taste of community support and school spirit.