The 2025-26 Hazelwood West Wildcats, these football players are great every game they go out there and put their heart out. They might have had a winning season, but they went to the second round of the playoffs in 5 years after their first playoff win. 

 The seniors are big leaders on this team. This year’s group showed the most heart and respect.  

 “These kids made me so proud last night, their first win of the season. I never saw this energy from them,” Head Coach Rory Seals said.          

This is not just any regular team; it’s a brotherhood that goes to practice every weekday, even on Saturdays, 2-3 hours a day, summer training, and young guys who can be really good soon. 

“This is a really good fit for me this year. I had 5 touchdowns, I feel like we’re going to be really good next year,” Freshman Cayden Harris said.

All this team needed was motivation; now they can turn their losing streak around with a W. Even if they lose on the field, they are not losing in the classroom. Everybody on the football team has passing grades. Freshmen got to see their shine last Friday at the playoff game against Pattonville freshmen. A lot of their star offensive players put in the work and responsibility to play both sides of the football.

“I got in the game, and I made two tackles. I did well, and I got comfortable,” Reion Woods said.

 Throughout the season, individual players began to shine even amidst the team’s struggles. Freshman standout Cayden Harris, who racked up five touchdowns, became a beacon of hope for the Wildcats. His commitment to improvement and belief in his team’s potential mirrored the larger ethos of the squad. 

Even in games where victory seemed out of reach, players like Reion Woods took it upon themselves to make impactful plays, such as his two tackles in a challenging playoff game. These moments, though few, demonstrated that every player’s contribution mattered and that they were invested in the team’s overall success. 

Academically, the Wildcats excelled, demonstrating that their dedication extended beyond the football field. The team maintained passing grades across the board. Proving that they were not only committed athletes but also dedicated students. This balance was crucial as it fostered an environment of accountability and discipline. The Hazelwood West Wildcats may have faced adversity on the scoreboard, but the heart and effort they showcased throughout the season were undeniable. As they look ahead, the lessons learned from this challenging year will.