Nate Thomas is back where he first made his mark, taking the helm of the Marshfield high school football program after nine seasons leading the Kickapoo Eagles. His return was driven not only by a deep connection to the community but also by personal milestones, including his daughter’s upcoming freshman year, which made staying close to home a priority.
The program’s recent upgrades — two indoor practice facilities, a state‑of‑the‑art turf stadium and a new turf baseball field — were built through a grassroots effort that brought neighbors, alumni and local businesses together. These improvements provide the team with a modern environment that rivals many college programs.
Six offensive starters return, but the quarterback position remains unsettled. Nolan Loe, Brock Jensen and Case Steinbach are all competing for the starting role, each bringing a distinct skill set that could shape the offense’s direction.
Versatility in the Backfield
Case Steinbach, known for his athleticism, is being groomed to play quarterback, running back and wide receiver. His ability to shift between positions adds a layer of flexibility that could keep defenses guessing and open up creative play‑calling options.
Defensively, Paul Lewis, the new defensive coordinator, brings a philosophy centered on sound gap control. Six starters, including linebacker Aydian Cobb who earned honorable‑mention all‑conference honors last season, are set to anchor a unit that aims to be both aggressive and disciplined.
The schedule kicks off with a jamboree in Fair Grove on August 21, followed by a home opener on August 28. Thomas emphasized that the season’s early games are designed to give the senior class a platform to finish on a positive note, while the team builds momentum around its new offensive scheme.