When asked about the 2021 edition of the Hamilton Southeastern football team, there were two words that second-year coach Michael Kelly used a couple times that stuck out: “Grown” and “learning.”
The first word describes the improvement the Royals have had during the summer. The second word describes Southeastern’s current practices, which are preparing it for the Royals’ opener against Lawrence Central Friday at TCU Field.
“We are learning how to practice with energy and enthusiasm,” said Kelly. “We have a lot of potential as we are moving into the fall season.”
Another good word to describe Southeastern would be experienced, both on the offensive and defensive ends. Kelly said the Royals return seven starters on the offensive side from last year’s team, which finished 6-3 and tied for second in the Hoosier Crossroads Conference, and that the offensive line “has grown significantly over the course of the summer.”
Southeastern played two quarterbacks during their Friday Jamboree, where they scrimmaged against Whiteland and defending Class 3A state champion Bishop Chatard. Those quarterbacks were senior Sam Jacobs and junior Ty Bradle. Jacobs played in a few games last season.
The Royals running game will be strong again with seniors Blaine Wertz and Owen Jones and sophomore Jalen Alexander. Wertz was the leading rusher for HSE last season, gaining 733 yards and scoring seven touchdowns.
As for receivers, seniors Dylan Conner and Will Gerig return with varsity experience, and will be joined by sophomore Donovan Hamilton. Kelly said Southeastern has several wide receivers “that have taken the next step in development as well.”
On defense, senior Louden Sundling returns the most tackles, as he made 54 stops last year, including six for a loss. Junior Evan Sherrill had the most tackles for a loss last season, with seven, and also led the Royals in sacks with six. Kelly said the HSE defense “has grown this summer in confidence and scheme understanding” over the summer.
“We are very athletic and return several starters from last year’s team,” said Kelly.
As the Royals prepare for their opener, Kelly said the team is focusing on “taking care of what is important now” and that getting one percent better every day must be the team’s focus.
“Our current status is working to define who is varsity ready to play this fall,” said Kelly.
After opening against Lawrence Central, Southeastern travels to North Central on Aug. 27. The Royals return to TCU field on Sept. 3 to open HCC play against Avon.