STEVENS POINT, Wis. (WSAW) – After a dynamic 2023 season, it’s hard to find a more balanced football team than SPASH.
In a tough Wisconsin Valley Conference, the Panthers went undefeated against their opponents and boasted the best offense and defense. The team has much of its playoff winning streak to fall back on, with over 30 seniors on the roster. Especially for a defense that struggles against strong Valley offenses, their continuity is a great comfort.
“As someone who was on the team last year or on the starting defense, it really helped me when the starters from last year helped me get more into the role,” said SPASH defenseman Jackson Spees. “I think this year I’m doing the same thing and I think it’s working pretty well so far. Our guys are really fitting into the system well, on offense and defense. Especially on defense, I would say.”
It’s one thing to have talent on the field, but it’s another to have a coaching staff that supports it. Since taking over together in 2022, head coach Ryan Eigenberger and his staff have taken their program from three wins to nine in two seasons. The Panthers have risen back to the top of the Valley, which means expectations have only increased. But with confidence in their staff, those are expectations that must be met.
“Every season is a journey in itself,” Eigenberger said. “I’m very fortunate to have what I think is the best coaching staff in the state. There are a few little hiccups along the way, but we’ve really learned from them. And we’re trying to build things up, put systems in place and make sure we’re ready for anything.”
The Panthers are back for Week 1 on Thursday, August 22nd, playing against Chippewa Falls at 7 p.m.
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