DAVID COOK
Sports Scene
The Alma football team will have a new look this season as Mike Allison takes over the reigns for the Panthers.
Allison, who was a defensive backs coach at Alma College last season, is familiar with the Panther program as he previously coached the offensive line at Alma. Allison has also been an offensive coordinator at Montabella and had head coaching experience at Newaygo.
One of the first things Allison is looking to establish at Alma is the right attitude.
“We want the guys to be playing for each other,” Allison said. “We want them to sacrifice for their teammates and do things the right way. We want great effort and we want our kids believing in each other.”
A trio of senior veterans return to help the new coaching staff get established this season.
Senior Cameron Ryckman (6-1, 165) returns at right tackle on offense and defensive end.
“I feel like we have a lot of potential,” Ryckman said. “If we keep doing what we are doing we will make a lot of progress.”
Senior RJ Bielaga (5-8, 155) returns at wide receiver on offense and heads up the defensive secondary at safety.
“I see so much more progress this season,” Bielaga said. “We just have to stay together and play as a team. I think this year we have great teamwork and togetherness.”
Senior Mateo Castillo (5-7, 155) will be a focal point of the offense at his running back position and plays defensive back on defense.
“We are heading in the right direction for sure,” Castillo said. “It’s exciting to see how the coaching staff pushes us to become better.”
The Panthers also welcome back starters Gavin McConnell, a junior, at wide receiver and defensive back, Matt Reihel and AJ Stone at both offensive and defensive line, Canyon Godfrey at offensive line and junior Kias Martin at defensive back.
Menu