Under head coach Jeff Scoma, now in his second year at the helm, the Gig Harbor Tides are shifting to a Wing‑T scheme that leans heavily on the run while also opening up the field with a more balanced passing attack. The approach reflects a deliberate attempt to build on the 6‑4 record and playoff berth the team achieved in 2025, when a brand‑new playbook was still being ironed out.
Key pieces of the offense
Senior running backs Max Schwab, Taylor Carey and Ian Shearer form the backbone of the ground game, with Schwab emerging as the team’s leading receiver and scorer last season. At quarterback, Sawyer Hayes will take the opening snap, while Salvador Isaiah Nuuhiwa Alob shares backup duties, giving the position depth and flexibility.
The schedule begins with a home matchup against Emerald Ridge on September 4, followed by contests against Bainbridge, Peninsula, Bellarmine Prep, Lincoln, Central Kitsap and Silas. Each opponent presents a different challenge, but the Tides enter the season with a clear sense of purpose and a belief that the new system can translate into more points on the board.
Defensive standouts and recruiting buzz
On defense, senior tackle Rylon Clarence is drawing attention from Division‑I programs, while linebacker Garrett Malott is projected to anchor a unit that could become one of the league’s most feared. Their contributions will be crucial as the team seeks to maintain the defensive intensity that helped it survive a competitive schedule last year.
With a blend of experienced seniors and promising juniors, the Tides hope to turn early-season momentum into a sustained push for another playoff run. The excitement is palpable in the locker room, where players are already talking about the possibilities that lie ahead.