2025 record: 1-9 overall, 1-6 in 5A Region 7 (7th-tie)

Playoffs: Did not qualify

Players to Watch: Uhila Wolfgramm 6-3 235 Sr. DE, Daniel Bishop 6-0 270 Sr. OL, Nixon Kemper 6-3 225 Jr. OL, Kyren Jones 6-1 175 Sr. WR/DB, Jonah Scarborough 6-1 195 Jr. DL.

Outlook: When previous head coach Kalin Hall was let go in the spring of 2025, it didn’t just have a ripple effect, it was like a tidal wave. Multiple key starters left the program and Schwenke was dealt a tough hand.The Golden Eagles suffered through a 1-9 season in 2025 and did not qualify for 5A playoffs.

But going into 2026, there is renewed optimism as the program steadies itself. Schwenke was a previous head coach at Salem Hills and is definitely capable of getting the Golden Eagles to take flight again.

“We feel like (the 2025) season was a one-off,” Schwenke said. “With all the things that happened leading up to it, we didn’t really have an off-season. We were hired in late April, early May. We feel really good about this season because of the off-season. We started January 1 installing culture.”

One key player that didn’t defect last season was Wolgramm, a defensive end and edge rusher. The 4-star recruit has committed to BYU but has one last prep season for Maple Mountain where Schwenke expects big things.

“He’s a game changer for any program,” Schwenke said of his talent.

The number of overall starters returning also should give the Maple Mountain faithful hope for a stronger season. Schwenke noted that the entire offensive line is returning plus some key skill position athletes.

“We are deep in the trenches,” noted Schwenke.

Bishop and Kemper should anchor the offensive line. Bishop weighed in last year at 270 pounds and Kemper was lighter at 225, his 6-foot-3 frame and long arms should keep defenders at bay.

Meanwhile, Jones is an athlete that plays wide receiver and safety and might spend some time at quarterback. Right now freshman Joey Imperio looks like the likely starter.

“He’s really, really good and a bright kid. He does all the right things and makes good choices,” Schwenke said.

The Golden Eagle faithful should expect a better year and a trip to the playoffs in 2026 as the coaching staff has more time to prepare along with having a good share of returning starters.

What is your favorite team-building activity? Schwenke noted different things, even mentioning how the 5:30 a.m. practices they have done since May have instilled discipline and team chemistry in his players. But the players have also had some fun this summer going to Splash Mountain along with doing group bonding activities and service projects.