Despite a chilly start to the season, the Grosse Pointe South High School football squad gathered on the field for its first practice, ready to tackle the challenges of the newly formed MAC Red division.
A year ago the team posted a 9‑2 record, captured the MAC White title and advanced to the Division 2 state playoffs before falling to St. Clair Shores Lakeview.
A New Chapter in the Red Division
Head coach Chad Hepner said the move to the Red tier is both a test and a catalyst, fueling the squad’s ambition to return to the postseason and claim league victories on their home turf.
Key contributors from the 2025 campaign are set to return, including senior quarterback Sam Rouleau, who amassed 1,259 passing yards and 875 rushing yards while scoring 18 total touchdowns, and running back Charlie Michelotti, who will add depth to the backfield.
The receiving corps will feature Trey Grabowski and Kooper Richards, while linebacker Throop Linnell anchors the defense, forming a core group that coach Hepner believes can sustain the team’s momentum.
Beyond individual talent, the players stress a collective mindset: winning home games, dominating league matchups and staying united as they chase a playoff berth.