Winfield Generals open 2025 season with veteran grit
WINFIELD, W.V. — The Winfield Generals are set to launch their 2025 football season with a home opener against the Lincoln County Panthers, and there鈥檚 a renewed sense of purpose in General Stadium. After a 4-6 campaign in 2024 and a tough first year in Class AAA, Head Coach Eddie Smolder鈥檚 squad is looking to turn the page and reassert its identity as a contender.
Winfield鈥檚 move to Class AAA last season came with growing pains. Once a dominant AA program, the Generals struggled to find footing in a deeper talent pool and missed the playoffs. But with a core of experienced seniors and a full offseason to recalibrate, the team enters 2025 with sharpened focus and a hunger to compete.
The Generals will be led by a group of battle-tested seniors who bring leadership, physicality, and upside:
Drew Mann (TE/DE): A four-year player and All-Conference selection, Mann is the heart of Winfield鈥檚 offense as the top scoring returner from last season. He took over at tight end in 2024 due to injury, moving from the offensive tackle position. Mann is a big target with soft hands and a mismatch for defenders, along with being a great blocker and leader in the weight room.
Chase Riggs (DT): A former baseball player now entering his second year of football, Riggs has made impressive strides. His defensive instincts began to flash last season, and his continued growth could make him a key contributor in the trenches.
Jaxson Swiney (C): Another four-year veteran, Swiney steps into the starting center role with experience on both sides of the line. His familiarity with the system and steady presence will be vital in anchoring the offensive front.
Ayden Douglas (DT): Known for his strength and durability, Douglas brings a wealth of experience to the defensive interior. Another leader in the weight room and a steady performer, he鈥檒l be counted on to control the line of scrimmage.
Winfield will need to overcome the loss of two key players to transfer: Aiden Hernandez (Herbert Hoover) and Chris Radcliffe (Nitro). Both were impact athletes whose absence will test the depth and adaptability of the roster. Expected to fill those roles will be Aiden Tate, Junior wide receiver, Gannon Boggs, Junior running back, and a host of players behind them.
The Generals open their season against Lincoln County, a fellow AAA team that finished 1-9 in 2024. Winfield dominated last year鈥檚 matchup 48-0, but Lincoln County showed late-season improvement and enters 2025 with momentum.
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