The Wagener-Salley football team was young in 2021 and suffered through some COVID challenges. But the 2022 team is going to be senior heavy and strong on both sides of the line. There are thirteen starters returning to this team, some playing both ways.
On offense, QB Cameron Davis (5’10,180) is back, along with senior Ian Strohman (5’10,180), WR Christ Kitchens (5’8,160), WR Mekhi Williams (5’8,165), WR CJ Bell (6’1,165), OL Jawaine Gleaton (6’2,270), OL Damarion Williams (6’0,215), Center Dalton Creel (6’0,220) and WR Aulden Murray (5’10,155). Those seniors will be joined by juniors Brandon Pontoon (6’2,295) and newcomer RB Dakota Vargus (5’10,165).
Defensively, the same faces will shine with Davis at free safety, Strohman at strong safety, Williams at cornerback, Bleaton on defensive line, Murray at defensve back, Pontoon at defensive tackle, Vargus at linebacker, and junior Ryan Jordan up front on the line. Sophomore LB Aiden Strohman (5’9,205) also returns at LB.
“We were very young last year having only four seniors on the team and injuries and Covid made it hard on us, ” said head coach Willie Fox. “This year’s team is senior heavy and led. We should be strong up front on both sides of the ball and we have pretty good skills guys that can do some damage. We plan to compete for the region championship and do some damage in the playoffs if we can stay healthy and on the right path.”