The high school football landscape in Northern Nevada’s large‑class division has been defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence, with each season unveiling new stories of triumph, record‑breaking performances, and community pride. As the latest Champion Chevrolet Athlete of the Week poll opens, readers are invited to celebrate the athletes who have shaped this era.
The Making of a Football Powerhouse
Quarterbacks have dominated the conversation, none more prominently than Cade McNamara of Damonte Ranch, who etched his name into the state record books with 12,084 passing yards and 146 touchdowns. Tyson McNeil of Spanish Springs followed with 6,168 yards and 73 scores, guiding the Cougars to a 2025 state championship. Their precision and poise set a benchmark for future signal‑callers.
The offensive arsenal also featured dynamic playmakers such as Brady Hummel from Spanish Springs, who amassed 209 receptions for 2,668 yards and 33 touchdowns, and Ashton Hayes of Damonte Ranch/McQueen, whose 5,340 rushing yards and 66 touchdowns highlighted a rare blend of speed and power.
Defensive standouts have been equally impactful. Kyler DePaepe of Spanish Springs compiled 366 total tackles over two varsity seasons, leading the state in each year, while Braelen Toles of Damonte Ranch added 203 tackles and 31 sacks, underscoring the region’s defensive depth. Colby Preston contributed 340 tackles and 17 sacks, further cementing the area’s reputation for hard‑hitting defense.
Versatility defined many of the era’s stars. Colson Kermode of Galena excelled as a passer, rusher, and tackler, finishing with 3,625 passing yards, 1,471 rushing yards, and 196 tackles. Bron Rios of Reed rushed for 4,085 yards and 54 touchdowns, while Tristan Szabo of Spanish Springs combined 6,883 passing yards with 961 rushing yards, showcasing the multifaceted talent that has become a hallmark of Northern Nevada football.
The culmination of these performances came in 2025, when multiple teams from the region captured state titles, including the Cougars and the Spanish Springs squad led by Brady Hummel and Tyson McNeil. Their championships not only highlighted individual brilliance but also reflected the collaborative spirit and competitive drive that have characterized Northern Nevada football over the past decade.