The Saxony Lutheran Crusaders are preparing for what promises to be a pivotal second varsity football season, building on a debut campaign that ended with a 4‑5 record and a home playoff appearance.
A New Chapter for the Crusaders
After a year that saw the team split its schedule between a makeshift venue and a tentative home opener, the program is now set to return to its rightful home at Bennett Memorial Stadium, where a true home opener is slated for August 28 against Veritas Christian.
Head coach O.J. Turner has announced a slate that includes five home games, emphasizing the importance of familiar surroundings for a squad that is eager to translate offseason work into on‑field results.
Junior quarterback Kai McDowell, who made the jump from junior varsity to the starting lineup last year, reflected on the transition, noting that discipline and preparation have become the team's mantra.
Sophomore running back Ozzie Turner echoed the sentiment, saying the players feel stronger and more cohesive after a full spring devoted to strength and conditioning, a program that has already yielded noticeable improvements in technique and physical readiness.
Beyond the field, the school's enrollment numbers are climbing, and families are touring the campus daily, signaling growing community support for the program.
With the season opener fast approaching, the Crusaders are focused on turning the lessons of their first season into a competitive edge, aiming to finish the year with a winning record and a deeper playoff run.