For the first time since the early 1940s, Virginia City High School has seniors on its football roster.
After a 65-year hiatus from the sport, the school brought football back in 2007 and four of those players from the 2007 squad are now seniors under fourth-year coach Ron Presley.
Presley, who guided the Muckers to a 4-6 record last year, has 28 players on his current roster, including 17 returnees.
"It really does make a difference (to have so many returners)," said Presley. "I'm excited. We have a good base; a good group of seniors. We have good leadership in our senior class."
The player Presley is most excited about is senior running back and linebacker Zach Shell, a star on the Muckers' basketball squad. Shell led the Muckers in rushing (542 yards, 3 TDs) and receiving (18 catches, 270 yards, 4 TDs).
"The kid is a stud," Presley said. "He's just an athlete. He's come so far since his freshman year. He's good on both sides of the ball. He will play both sides this year and I expect him to have another big year."
Another key returner is sophomore quarterback Wyatt Hudson, who threw for 252 yards and two scores last year. Presley said he's much improved.
"He's a little taller and a little stronger," said Presley of his 5-foot-10 signal-caller. "He's put on some weight and he's throwing the ball well."
Besides Shell, a couple of Hudson's favorite targets return. Kregg Lemmon caught 11 passes for 106 yards, while A.J. Landaburu had nine receptions for 235 yards and three scores. Landaburu was the second-leading tackler with 46. Lemmon also rushed for 127 yards last season.
Cody Morris (RB-LB), J.T.Minkler (C), Justin Aguinon (OL-DE), Frank Berrymen (DB), Cordell Young (WR), Matt Conners (WR), Eric Goldworthy (OL), Adrian Martinez (LB), Matt Fickus (TE), Jordan Popiela (DE) and Ryan McDougal (OL) are all back from last season.
A handful of freshmen will be on the roster since the Muckers don't have a JV squad. Presley expects Braden Fergusan to have an impact at defensive back.
"He comes up and takes on people he shouldn't be taking on," Presley said. "He's stepped up big, He's come up and hit Zach. He's ready to play."
Presley said the league is tough, led by Carlin, Eureka and Hawthorne. He thinks Coleville will be down a little bit.