The Round Rock Westwood Warriors are gearing up for the 2026 season under head coach Derek Ward, who is entering his second year after a challenging 3-7 campaign. With 20 returning lettermen and half of last season's starters back, including key players like quarterback Cooper Waits and defensive standout Canon Olofson, the Warriors aim to improve on last year鈥檚 performance. Ward is optimistic that the team's offseason advancements will translate to a more competitive season, especially after several close losses in 2025.

By the Numbers
  • 2025 Record: 3-7, 2-6 in district.
  • Returning starters: 6 on offense, 5 on defense.
  • Cooper Waits: 1,420 passing yards, 13 touchdowns.
  • Canon Olofson: 90 tackles, 9 tackles for loss.
State of Play
  • Westwood has not made the playoffs in nine years.
  • Three district losses last season were by 16 points or less, indicating potential for improvement.
  • Ward's leadership has sparked optimism among players and fans.
What's Next

As the season approaches, the Warriors will focus on developing chemistry among returning players and capitalizing on their experience. Successful execution in their early games, starting with Boerne, will be crucial for building momentum. The team's playoff contention will hinge on their ability to perform under pressure as they face tough district matchups.

Bottom Line

The Westwood Warriors are poised for a turnaround in 2026, with a mix of returning talent and the vision of their new head coach. If they can translate offseason progress into consistent performance, the postseason could finally be within reach after nearly a decade.