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Colten Hayder leaps for the interception last season against Thompson Falls. Three Forks will open the 2023 season on August 26 against Missoula Loyola. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. File photo
Shane Williams finds a hole in action last season against Thompson Falls. Voice photo
Entering his fifth year at the helm of the Three Forks High School Football team, Wolves Head Coach Connor Sullivan believes the past year has been huge for the development of the program.
"Our kids look bigger, faster, and stronger. Once you develop that confidence in the weight room, it kind of carries over to the football field. Some kids look noticeably different compared to last year," Sullivan said.
With the season opener set for August 26 against Missoula-Loyola at Washington-Grizzly Stadium, Sullivan has been pleased with the confidence he sees on both sides of the ball in practice.
"We're a year older, and it's another year in the system. We're going into both year two on Offense and Defense. Kids are flying around making plays, and playing with confidence. They understand their assignment and scheme better. Less thinking, go play," Sullivan said.
The 2023 Wolves squad will rely on a wealth of talented returning upperclassmen as they battle it out in the traditionally robust Southern B Division.
"This conference, year in and year out, is always tough. Every week you have to be ready to go mentally and physically. Having a great group of seniors and juniors that have lots of playing experience will help. We're going to lean on those guys and ask a lot out of that group. I'm excited to watch them compete," he said.
Sullivan also praised the senior members of the team and said it has been awesome coaching them throughout their careers.
"I coached these guys in 8th-grade basketball, so I've gotten to know them pretty good over the years. They're a bunch of competitive, tough kids. They want to be the best version of themselves they can be. These guys are raising the standard, and others are following," Sullivan said.
As far as the August 26 matchup at 7:30 p.m. against last year's state runner-up, Sullivan said Missoula Loyola is a great program.
"The atmosphere will be electric playing at Washington-Grizzly Stadium. We have to be ready to go. Go out and compete and control what we can control. It will be a great first test and step going into the season," he said.
Three Forks will also be on the road on September 1 before opening their home season on September 8 against Whitehall.
