The air in Spokane is already warm, but the heat will only intensify as the Greater Spokane League football season officially begins on September 4. Teams are using the early practices to fine‑tune strategies, with an eye toward avoiding midday scorch while building chemistry for the battles ahead.
Quarterback Dynamics and Coaching Impact
At Mt. Spokane, the Wildcats are centering their preparation around returning quarterback Cade Strocsher. Rather than relying on a deep passing attack, the coaching staff is emphasizing a ground game that can shield Strocsher from early pressure and allow the offense to dictate tempo.
Coach Terry Cloer has taken the opportunity to address the loss of linebacker Brendan Hughes, a state‑champion wrestler who moved on to pursue other interests. Cloer’s plan hinges on younger players stepping into larger roles while maintaining the team’s defensive identity.
Cheney’s resurgence under third‑year head coach John Graham has been one of the season’s most compelling stories. After a winless 2023 campaign, the Blackhawks surged to a 3‑7 start, a turnaround that quarterback Connor Collins credits to Graham’s steady leadership and a culture shift that has players believing in the program again.
Gonzaga Prep, meanwhile, enters the new season with a familiar narrative of dominance in the league. The Bullpups have not tasted a league defeat in three years, though they have fallen just short in the state semifinal and two quarterfinal matchups. This year they will rely on just two returning starters, with senior safety Andrew Yarno assuming the signal‑calling duties he previously held on defense.
Kicker Paul Davidow, who finished fourth in league scoring last season without a single touchdown, will again be a vital piece of the offense. His perfect extra‑point conversion rate and reliable field‑goal attempts provide a steady scoring option that complements the teams’ more explosive plays.
As the preseason buzz builds, each program is confronting its own set of challenges — whether it’s heat management, rebuilding after key departures, or integrating new leaders. The upcoming September 4 kickoff promises fresh rivalries and a chance for each squad to test the progress made during the summer grind.