Niwot High School football prospects looking good

The Niwot High School football season is officially gearing up as the players have played their last 7-on-7 games. The games took place this summer against both Weld Central High School and Silver Creek High School (twice).

Their first two games were successful as they took home "wins" and gained experience. While their final game last Wednesday was a close "loss," it was still a great learning moment for the team, according to the coaching staff.

The 7-on-7 games are non contact, with no offensive or defensive linemen, and an extra receiver. Due to the lack of contact, no rushing plays are called, forcing Niwot to attack in the air, something they might have benefited from last season.

Niwot's receiving corp, made up of seniors Mats Lehan, Eric Dillon, Sergio Pimentel, and Henry Stephens, has been efficient through the games. Quarterback Chad Volf has put on a show this summer, throwing a great deep ball, while also dominating the short ball. Niwot's running back position has been occupied by a wide variety of players including Jesus Rosas, Caleb Roby, and Gavin Burrage.

On the defensive side of the ball, senior linebackers Nico Kemp and Burrage will take big roles on the field with the secondary highlighted by Lehan, Dillon, Roby, Pimentel, Wyatt Volf, and Cormac Easter.

Along with returning players, and new faces on both sides of the ball, Niwot will have a variety of new coaches, headlined by defensive coordinator Harold Wagner, offensive coordinator Shane Tow, linebacker/running back coach Tyson Painter, and wide receiver/defensive back coach Marcus Matthiesen.

The Cougars look prepared for a successful season. While no starting roster has been made, the players were integral during the 7-on-7 games. The team's passing game clearly looks stronger, and if that translates to their season, offensive productivity will increase. There is a lot to look forward to this fall.