High School Football News Kansas City

In the vibrant world of Kansas City high school football, the 2025 season is shaping up to be an exciting and dynamic year, filled with new challenges, notable achievements, and a resurgence in team spirit.

One of the most significant developments is St. Pius X's decision to go independent after nearly 20 years. This bold move has resulted in a formidable 2025 schedule that includes games across state lines. The Warriors will kick off their season on August 29 against Rockhurst, followed by a neutral-site game against Little Rock Catholic in Frisco, Texas, on September 6. They will also face Gardner-Edgerton in Kansas and several other local powerhouses, concluding their regular season on October 24 against Savannah[3].

Platte County High School is still basking in the glory of their Class 5 state championship win in 2024. Rocco Marriott, a standout player from Platte County, has been named the first PrepsKC McCarthy Elite Team MVP, highlighting the talent and dedication of the team[1].

In other news, the PrepsKC McCarthy Elite Team has been fully announced, recognizing top performers in various positions, including offensive and defensive players, running backs, quarterbacks, defensive linemen, linebackers, offensive linemen, defensive backs, and specialists. This recognition underscores the rich talent pool in Kansas City high school football[1].

For coaches and aspiring athletes, the Greater Kansas City Football Coaches Association (GKCFCA) is hosting a clinic on March 12 at Bishop Miege, offering valuable insights and hands-on training. This event is a testament to the ongoing commitment to developing football skills in the region[1].

On a more heartwarming note, Central High School has revived its football team after a period of low enrollment forced the school to combine teams or skip seasons altogether. With growing enrollment and a robust middle school feeder program, the Central Blue Eagles are back on the field, giving students like senior Coltin Ferguson a chance to play for their school before graduation[5].

As the season approaches, fans can stay updated through the SBLive Sports app, which provides live updates, game follow-ups, and insights into the top games and teams in Kansas City high school football[3].

With independent schedules, elite team recognitions, and the revival of school teams, the 2025 high school football season in Kansas City promises to be a thrilling ride filled with action, talent, and community spirit.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

In the vibrant world of Kansas City high school football, several exciting developments are setting the stage for an electrifying 2025 season.

### St. Pius X Goes Independent

One of the most significant changes comes from St. Pius X, which has announced its decision to go independent after nearly 20 years. This bold move brings a challenging and diverse schedule, including games against teams from Texas and Arkansas. The Warriors will kick off their season on August 29 against Rockhurst, followed by a neutral-site game against Little Rock Catholic in Frisco, Texas, on September 6. Their schedule also includes matches against Gardner-Edgerton, Cardinal Ritter, St. Michael the Archangel, St. James Academy, Bishop Miege, and Festus's St. Pius X, concluding with a home game against Savannah on October 24[2].

### PrepsKC McCarthy Elite Team

The PrepsKC McCarthy Elite Team has been announced, honoring the top performers in the region. Platte County's Rocco Marriott was named the MVP, highlighting his outstanding contributions to the team that won the Class 5 title last season. Other notable mentions include the Offensive and Defensive Players of the Year, as well as standout players in various positions such as running backs, quarterbacks, defensive linemen, linebackers, offensive linemen, defensive backs, and specialists[1].

### Coaching Legends

Kansas City is also celebrating its coaching legends. Rockhurst's Tony Severino, known as the "Dean of Kansas City coaches," retired after an impressive 50 years on the sidelines. His legacy continues to inspire young athletes and coaches alike[1].

### Burnout Warning

As the offseason intensifies, a crucial reminder from PrepsKC cautions against athlete burnout. The emphasis is on balancing training and rest to ensure young athletes can perform at their best without risking their health and well-being[1].

### Top Recruits

The 2025 football season is also about spotting future talent. The 247Sports rankings highlight top recruits in Kansas, showcasing the next generation of football stars who are making waves in the high school scene[3].

With these developments, the stage is set for a thrilling 2025 high school football season in Kansas City, filled with new challenges, talented players, and legendary coaches. As the season approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating the action-packed games and the emergence of new stars.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

High school football in Kansas City is buzzing with excitement as the new season approaches, filled with significant developments and promising talent.

One of the most notable changes comes from St. Pius X High School, which has decided to go independent after nearly 20 years. This bold move brings a challenging and diverse schedule for the Warriors. They kick off their season on August 29 against Rockhurst, followed by a neutral-site game against Little Rock Catholic in Frisco, Texas, on September 6. The schedule includes matches against Gardner-Edgerton, Cardinal Ritter, St. Michael the Archangel, St. James Academy, Bishop Miege, and St. Pius X (Festus), culminating in a home game against Savannah on October 24[3].

In other news, Platte County High School is celebrating its Class 5 state championship win from the 2024 season. The Pirates were the cream of the crop, and their success is highlighted through the PrepsKC McCarthy Elite Team awards. Platte County's Rocco Marriott was named the first PrepsKC McCarthy Elite Team MVP, a testament to the team's outstanding performance[1].

The PrepsKC McCarthy Elite Team has also recognized top players across various positions, including offensive and defensive players of the year, running backs, quarterbacks, defensive linemen, linebackers, offensive linemen, defensive backs, and specialists. These awards underscore the rich talent pool in Kansas City high school football[1].

On the coaching front, legendary coach Tony Severino of Rockhurst High School has retired after an impressive 50 years on the sidelines. Severino's legacy is a cornerstone of Kansas City's football history, and his impact will be felt for years to come[1].

In a heartwarming turn of events, Central High School has revived its football team after a year without one due to low enrollment. With growing enrollment and a robust middle school feeder program, the Central Blue Eagles are back on the field. This revival is a beacon of hope for the school and a testament to the community's support for high school sports[5].

Finally, the annual Kansas-Missouri All-Star Game is set for June 6th at Liberty High School, featuring the best from both states in a showcase of talent and rivalry[1].

As the season gears up, fans are eagerly anticipating the action-packed games, the emergence of new stars, and the continued excellence of Kansas City's high school football scene.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

In the heart of Kansas City, high school football is experiencing a resurgence that's capturing the hearts and spirits of students, coaches, and the community alike.

At Central High School, the football team is back in action after a year-long hiatus due to low enrollment. This revival is a testament to the school's renewed focus on building up the team and the positive impact of a middle school feeder program. Athletic Director Lee Meyers of Kansas City Public Schools (KCPS) highlighted the importance of this program, noting that it has helped create a talent pipeline, encouraging more students to take up the sport. With enrollment up by about 15% and a new coach engaging with students, the number of Central students playing football is expected to double, reflecting a broader trend of students eager to get involved in sports again[2].

For students like Coltin Ferguson and Shawn Bridgewater, having their own team at Central High School is more than just about playing football; it's about school pride and community. Bridgewater, who has played football since his freshman year, expressed his relief at not having to combine with rival school Southeast, emphasizing the unique bond and identity that comes with playing for Central[2].

Meanwhile, Benedictine College is celebrating its initial signing class for the 2025 season, a group that promises to elevate the program under Head Coach Joel Osborn. This class includes talented players from the Kansas City area, such as Jacob Conway from Park Hill High School and James Watkins from Raytown South High School. Conway, an offensive lineman, and Watkins, a cornerback, bring impressive high school credentials, including multiple All-Conference and Academic All-State honors. These signings are a boost to a program that recently appeared in the NAIA Football Championship Series Semifinals and secured its third straight Heart South Championship[1].

On the recruiting front, Kansas is producing some top talent. According to ESPN's 2025 Top Kansas Recruits list, players like Andrew Babalola, an offensive tackle from Blue Valley Northwest High School, and Linkon Cure, a tight end from Goodland High School, are making waves. These recruits are highly sought after by colleges and universities, reflecting the strong football culture in Kansas[3].

In summary, high school football in Kansas City is thriving, driven by renewed enrollment, dedicated coaching, and a strong pipeline of young talent. As schools like Central High School rebuild their teams and colleges like Benedictine College secure top recruits, the future of football in the region looks brighter than ever.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

In the heart of Kansas City, high school football is experiencing a resurgence that's capturing the hearts and spirits of students, coaches, and the community alike.

One of the most compelling stories comes from Central High School, where the football team has made a triumphant return after a year of absence. Due to low participation, Kansas City Public Schools had combined the football teams of Central and Southeast High Schools. However, with a significant 15% increase in enrollment and a renewed focus on building the team, Central High School is once again donning their royal blue and white uniforms as the Central Blue Eagles.

This revival is not just about numbers; it's about school pride and the positive impact sports have on students. Athletic Director Lee Meyers emphasized that having sports teams instills values, motivates students to maintain good behavior and grades, and provides a sense of community. Students like Shawn Bridgewater, a wide receiver and safety, are thrilled to be playing for their own school again, rather than being part of a combined team with their rivals from Southeast High School[2].

To sustain this momentum, Kansas City Public Schools have launched a middle school tackle football program to create a talent pipeline. This initiative aims to engage younger students and prepare them for high school football, ensuring a robust team in the years to come.

Meanwhile, in the broader Kansas high school football landscape, top recruits are making waves. According to ESPN, the top Kansas recruits for the class of 2025 include Andrew Babalola, an offensive tackle from Blue Valley Northwest High School, and Linkon Cure, a tight end from Goodland High School. Other notable recruits include Dawson Merritt, an outside linebacker from Blue Valley High School, and Jayden Woods, a defensive end from Mill Valley High School[1].

In neighboring Missouri, another significant development is unfolding. St. Pius X High School in Kansas City has announced its decision to go independent, releasing a challenging 2025 schedule that includes games against teams from Texas and Arkansas. This new schedule promises to test the Warriors' mettle as they face off against strong opponents like Little Rock Catholic and Gardner-Edgerton[5].

These stories highlight the vibrant and dynamic world of high school football in Kansas City, where dedication, community support, and a passion for the sport are driving success both on and off the field. As the season unfolds, these teams are set to inspire and entertain, showcasing the best of what high school football has to offer.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

In the heart of Kansas City, high school football is experiencing a resurgence that's capturing the hearts and spirits of students, coaches, and the entire community. After a period of uncertainty, Central High School has reinstated its football team, and the excitement is palpable.

Last year, Kansas City Public Schools (KCPS) faced the daunting task of combining football teams due to low participation. However, with a significant turnaround in enrollment, Central High School is once again donning its royal blue and white uniforms as the Central Blue Eagles. This revival is not just about the game; it's about school pride, community spirit, and the positive impact on students.

For seniors like Coltin Ferguson, this is a last chance to be part of the team before graduation. Ferguson opted to join Central's revived team instead of playing for a combined team with rival school Southeast, highlighting the importance of school loyalty and identity in high school sports.

KCPS athletic director Lee Meyers attributes the success to a multifaceted approach. The district has launched tackle football programs in middle schools to create a talent pipeline, ensuring that students arrive in high school with some experience and skills. This initiative has already shown promising results, with enrollment at Central increasing by about 15% and the number of students playing football potentially doubling.

Shawn Bridgewater, a wide receiver and safety, embodies the enthusiasm and dedication of Central's athletes. Having played since his freshman year, Bridgewater found the combined team arrangement with Southeast awkward and is thrilled to be back playing for his own school. "It wasn't the same as playing with Central," he said, reflecting the unique bond between teammates and their school.

The revival of Central's football team is also a testament to the broader impact of sports on students. Meyers emphasizes that sports teams build school pride, instill positive values, and motivate students to maintain good behavior and grades. As more students step out of their basements and into the fresh air, the community is witnessing a renewed interest in physical activities and team sports.

In addition to Central's story, Kansas is also producing top-tier football talent. Andrew Babalola, an offensive tackle from Blue Valley Northwest High School, tops the 2025 ESPN Top Kansas Recruits list, showcasing the state's potential for nurturing future football stars.

As the season unfolds, Kansas City's high school football scene is set to be more vibrant than ever, with a blend of seasoned athletes and new recruits, all driven by a shared passion for the game and their schools. The future looks bright, and the community is eager to see the fruits of their labor on the field.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

In the heart of Kansas City, high school football is experiencing a resurgence that's as exciting as it is inspiring. After a yearlong hiatus, Central High School has revived its football program, a move that's not only revitalizing the school's spirit but also reflecting a broader trend in local high school athletics.

Central High School, the oldest high school in the Kansas City Public Schools district, had to shut down its football team due to a shortage of interested players. However, with increased enrollment and a renewed focus on building the team, the Central Blue Eagles are back on the field. This revival is partly thanks to the launch of a middle school tackle football program, aimed at creating a talent pipeline and fostering early interest in the sport[2].

Coach Michael Klyce is at the helm, and his enthusiasm is palpable. With about two dozen players already signed up, the team is gearing up for a fresh start. Early morning training sessions have been underway since July, with students eager to don their helmets and pads once again. This initiative is not just about the game; it's about providing students with a chance to engage in physical activity, build camaraderie, and develop valuable life skills[2].

The story of Central High School's football revival is also intertwined with the broader challenges faced by Kansas City Public Schools. In 2022, the district considered closing Central due to low enrollment, but a scaled-back closure plan allowed the school to remain open. Now, with enrollment up by about 15%, the school is celebrating its football team's return as a symbol of its resilience and growth[2].

Meanwhile, the 2025 recruiting season is highlighting some of Kansas City's top high school football talents. According to ESPN, Andrew Babalola, an offensive tackle from Blue Valley Northwest High School, tops the list of Kansas recruits. Standing at 6'6" and weighing 270 pounds, Babalola is a standout player with an impressive 87 rating. Other notable recruits include Linkon Cure, a tight end from Goodland High School, and Dawson Merritt, an outside linebacker from Blue Valley High School[1].

In addition to individual talent, team rankings are also making headlines. Schools like Mill Valley, Gardner-Edgerton, and Blue Valley West are among the top contenders in their respective classifications. These teams are not just competing at a high level but also contributing to the vibrant football culture in Kansas City[3].

As high school football continues to thrive in Kansas City, it's clear that the sport is more than just a game—it's a community builder, a character developer, and a source of pride for schools and their students. With renewed programs, talented recruits, and a growing interest in the sport, the future of high school football in Kansas City looks brighter than ever.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

In the heart of Kansas City, high school football is experiencing a resurgence that's capturing the excitement of students, coaches, and the entire community. After a yearlong hiatus, Central High School has revived its football program, a move that is both a testament to the school's determination and a reflection of the district's innovative approaches.

Central High School, the oldest high school in the Kansas City Public Schools district, had to shut down its football team due to a shortage of interested players. However, with increased enrollment and a renewed focus on building the team, the Central Blue Eagles are back on the field. This revival is partly attributed to the launch of a middle school tackle football program, designed to create a talent pipeline and foster early interest in the sport.

Coach Michael Klyce is at the helm, engaging with students and overseeing early morning training sessions. About two dozen players have already signed up, and the enthusiasm is palpable. For seniors like Coltin Ferguson, who decided to join the team in his final year, this is a chance to be part of something special. Ferguson, who plays quarterback, appreciates the unique culture at Central and is relieved he didn't have to switch schools again[2].

This revival is not just about the numbers; it's about community and school spirit. Central High School's rebirth is a beacon of hope for other schools facing similar challenges. The district's athletic director, Lee Meyers, emphasizes that while higher enrollment is crucial, it's only part of the story. The real success lies in creating a sustainable program that engages students from a young age and builds a strong foundation for the future[2].

In other news, the 2025 recruiting scene in Kansas is buzzing with talent. According to ESPN, top recruits include Andrew Babalola, an offensive tackle from Blue Valley Northwest High School, and Linkon Cure, a tight end from Goodland High School. These players are making waves with their impressive stats and are likely to be highly sought after by colleges[1].

As the season unfolds, Kansas City high school football is poised to be more exciting than ever. With Central High School back in the game and talented recruits across the state, fans are in for a treat. Whether it's the Blue Eagles of Central or the top-ranked teams in the state, one thing is clear: high school football in Kansas City is here to stay and is stronger than ever.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

In the heart of Kansas City, high school football is experiencing a resurgence that's capturing the hearts and spirits of the community. One of the most compelling stories comes from Central High School, where the football team is back in action after a year-long hiatus.

Central High School's football program was put on hold due to low enrollment, a challenge many schools in the area have faced. However, with a significant increase in student enrollment – from 409 to over 550 – the school has been able to revive its team. This turnaround is not just about numbers; it's about the passion and dedication of the students and staff.

Coach Michael Klyce, the new head coach, has been instrumental in rebuilding the team from the ground up. Despite the team's rookie status, Coach Klyce is focused on the character and commitment of his players rather than the number of jerseys on the sidelines. With around 20-25 players attending practices, the team is eager to make a mark. Coltin Ferguson, the team's quarterback, who had never played football before, exemplifies this spirit. He decided to join the team in his final year of high school, driven by the desire to be part of something special[2][4].

The revival of Central High School's football team is more than just a sports story; it's about school pride and community engagement. Students like Shawn Bridgewater, who have played football since their freshman year, are thrilled to be back in their school's uniforms, emphasizing the importance of playing for their own school rather than a combined team with a rival school[2].

In addition to Central High School's resurgence, the broader landscape of high school football in Kansas is filled with promising talent. The 2025 ESPN Top Kansas Recruits list highlights several standout players, including Andrew Babalola, an offensive tackle from Blue Valley Northwest High School, and Linkon Cure, a tight end from Goodland High School. These players are making waves with their impressive stats and commitment to the sport[1].

Kansas Prep Football rankings also provide a glimpse into the competitive scene, with schools like Andover Central, Bishop Miege, and Louisburg topping the charts in their respective classifications. The rankings underscore the depth and talent across various high school football programs in the state[3].

As the season kicks off, the community is rallying behind these young athletes. Central High School's first game on August 23 is highly anticipated, with Coach Klyce and his team inviting everyone to come out and support their hard work and determination. The return of football to Central High School is a testament to the power of sports in building school spirit, fostering positive values, and motivating students to excel both on and off the field[2][4].

In Kansas City, high school football is more than just a game; it's a celebration of community, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of its young athletes. As the teams take to the fields,

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

In the heart of Kansas City, high school football is experiencing a resurgence that's as exciting as it is poignant. After a yearlong hiatus, Central High School has revived its football program, a move that's not just about the game, but about community and school spirit.

Central High School, the oldest high school in the district, had to shut down its football team due to a shortage of students interested in playing. However, with increased enrollment and a renewed focus on building the team, the Central Blue Eagles are back on the field. This revival is partly thanks to the launch of a middle school tackle football program, aimed at creating a talent pipeline and fostering early interest in the sport[2].

Coach Michael Klyce is at the helm, and his enthusiasm is palpable. About two dozen players have already signed up, and early morning training sessions have become a norm. Students are eager to don their royal blue and white uniforms once again, a testament to the program's revitalization[2].

This story is not isolated; it reflects broader trends in Kansas City high school football. Despite historical risks associated with the sport, such as traumatic injuries, modern safety measures have made the game safer. Medical professionals now routinely monitor games, and emergency response plans are more sophisticated than ever before[4].

On the recruitment front, Kansas is buzzing with talent. According to ESPN, the top recruits for 2025 include Andrew Babalola, an offensive tackle from Blue Valley Northwest High School, and Linkon Cure, a tight end from Goodland High School. Other notable mentions include Dawson Merritt, an outside linebacker from Blue Valley High School, and DaSaahn Brame, a tight end from Derby Senior High School[1].

The rankings also highlight the strength of various high schools in the region. Schools like Gardner-Edgerton, Manhattan, and Blue Valley West are among the top contenders in the 6A classification, while Andover Central and Bishop Miege lead the pack in 4A[3].

As high school football continues to thrive, it's clear that the sport is more than just a game; it's a community builder and a character shaper. For students like Coltin Ferguson, who decided to join the Central High School team in his final year, it's about seizing opportunities and being part of something bigger than themselves[2].

In Kansas City, the autumn tradition of high school football remains strong, with its mix of excitement, risk, and reward. As the season unfolds, one thing is certain: the spirit of high school football is alive and well, inspiring young athletes and communities alike.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.