The defending Class A state champion MMCRU is set to prove last year was not a flash in the pan, and that the Royals are ready to contend consistently at the upper-tier of the state.
They will look to accomplish that under new leadership as offensive coordinator Colin Youde takes over Kyle Oswald’s spot as head coach. Youde spent some time before the MMC and Remsen-Union merger as R-U’s head coach, but he has not been a head coach since the two schools joined forces. Coach Youde says the transition has been smooth so far.
After winning just four games in their first six seasons as an 11-man program, the Royals know what it is like to be the under dog going after a top team. Now, the roles are reversed with the Royals possessing a target on their back every single week. Coach Youde says that is a big change in mentality, but the players are taking to it well.
MMCRU is in the unenviable position this year of graduating a large senior class of 21 athletes off last year’s team. Coach Youde says that is a tough position to be in, but the senior class coming up this year has taken the reins nicely.
The only returning starter off last year’s team is Eli Harpenau who will once again call the plays under center as MMCRU’s quarterback. Coach Youde says it has been great to return Harpenau who is acting like an extension of the coaching staff on the field.
Defensively, the Royals led the state in just about every category. They allowed the fewest points per game, they picked off the most passes, and recovered the most fumbles. Coach Youde says that group will be brand new, but they have some good pieces to run out there.
The Royals begin their title defense on the road at Akron-Westfield to start the non-district schedule. Coach Youde says that will be a great test as the Westerners always throw something different at you.
Kickoff between the Royals and the Westerners is set for 7:00 PM in Akron.
Listen to our full interview with head coach Colin Youde in the player below.
MMCRU ROYAL FOOTBALL SCHEDULE:
August 28 – at Akron-Westfield
September 4 – HINTON
September 11 – at South O’Brien *
September 18 – SIOUX CENTRAL * (Homecoming)
September 25 – at Sibley-Ocheyedan *
October 2 – GEHLEN CATHOLIC *
October 9 – at West Sioux *
October 16 – HARTLEY-MELVIN-SANBORN *
