The Hive Sports

by James Tate

This is a part of an offseason series previewing teams in Davis and Weber County. To look at other team previews, click here.

Woods Cross Wildcats

2023 record (7-5) (4-3)

Head Coach: Brody Benson

Over the past three seasons, the Woods Cross Wildcats have shown remarkable growth, steadily increasing their win total each year. From a challenging 0-10 record in 2021, the Wildcats finished 6-5 in 2022 and 7-5 last season. Head coach Brody Benson, with his new team of leaders, is eager to see who will step up and continue the Wildcats’ upward trajectory in 2024.

“With a new team comes new goals,” Coach Benson said. “Our aim is to play in November, a goal we’ve been working towards since January. The boys have shown tremendous dedication to turning this dream into a reality. We are fully aware of the challenges ahead, but we have complete faith in our team’s capabilities. With many new faces in key positions, we see this as a fantastic opportunity for them to leave their mark on the field.”

Quarterbacks/running backs

Krew Fornelius

Junior Jesse Simmons and Tage Ita will lead the Wildcats at quarterback in the upcoming season. Both quarterbacks bring unique strengths to the game, making the Wildcats’ triple-option offense a formidable challenge for opponents. Their skills and performance are expected to improve with each game.

“Both of them do things very well but lack experience,” Coach Benson said. “I love how they push and cheer for each other. They are showing outstanding leadership.”

The Wildcats will reload at running back and see new talented players ready to step in. Seniors Ryker Martin, Krew Fornelius, Nate Webb, and junior fullback Viliami Tapa’atoutai will be the headliners sharing the rushing load. Senior Steve Sauni will also see time as a fullback this season.

Averaging 290.0 rushing yards per game last season was good for second in the region, and the running backs are poised to exceed that this season.

Wide receivers/tight ends

The Wildcats receivers play a pivotal role in the offensive success because they must be able to do it all. Not only are they reliable when passes are thrown their way, but they must also stay on blocks and be ready for opportunities to make big plays.

Senior Hammond Reece is someone to watch to lead a young group of receivers this season for the Wildcats. Ricky Sanchez is a quick, elusive receiver who will cause defense problems when he has the ball.

“Since the winter workouts have started, our team has shown great commitment to giving it 100% every day,” Hammond said. “We lost some starting seniors last year, and the offseason has made me excited about the athletes working to fill their spots.”

Offensive/defensive linemen

Hadden Rotz

As it seems to be every year, the Wildcats’ offensive line will be a strength. The toughness, unique blocking schemes, and excellent understanding of the game are testaments to the hard work the Wildcats put in each year.

Look for seniors Hadden Rotz, Logan Bailey, and junior Braken Borders to lead the offense and set the tempo each game for the Wildcats. Having the experience of the playoffs, by winning a home game against the Taylorsville Warriors but losing a challenging game against the Brighton Bengals, gives the Wildcats a positive outlook for this season.

“We, as the Woods Cross football team, I think it is safe to say we all have a sour taste in our mouths from last year’s loss to Brighton in the playoffs,” Rotz said. “This team has worked their tails off this offseason to achieve the goal of playing in November, but I’m most excited to play my senior year with the guys and coaches I love. These guys are really what makes this game special.”

On the defensive line, senior Tino Sa is ready to take the next step toward being a force for the Wildcats. Sa is the Wildcats’ leading returner in tackles, with 42 from last season. The Wildcats will look to senior Charlie Howe to step into the starting rotation this year and depend on Rotz to play both ways.

Linebackers/defensive backs

Sanchez (l) Hammond (r)

The linebackers for the Wildcats have been impressive over the summer and ready to lead the defense. Look for senior Nate Webb and juniors Brayden Haas and Hayden Thorne to lead in tackles each game.

Sanchez, Hammond, Martin, and Fornelius will be names called in the Wildcats’ secondary. Getting the offense the ball back will be crucial for the Wildcats’ defense as they look to create more turnovers with their physical play and athleticism. Hammond understands the game and situations and has improved his footwork and speed to be a top defensive back in the region this year.

Season outlook

The Wildcats will replace some talented players from last year but will return several players ready to take another step. Fornelius, Borders, Rotz, and Sa all earned second-team all-region honors in 2023. Competition and challenges bring out the best in athletes, and the Wildcats are counting on being in the thick of the region championship race this season.

All-region honorable mention players returning for the Wildcats are Howe, Webb, Martin, and Tapa’atoutai.

Key games

September 20, 2024, vs Viewmont Vikings. The Wildcats defeated the Vikings 47-7 last year. The Vikings will want to return the favor on the road at Woods Cross.

September 27, 2024, at Roy Royals. The Wildcats were on the other end of this contest last season, with the Royals winning 51-17. This mid-season region game will give a great indication of where the Wildcats stand.

October 17, 2024, at Bountiful Redhawks. The Redhawks have won four straight against the Wildcats. Will the Wildcats close the regular season on a high note?

photos courtesy James Tate