IWU football released their schedule for the upcoming season with hopes for success and growth following several program changes.
The upcoming season includes non-conference matchups against Dordt University of Iowa and Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.
“The season opener against a top 10 team, Dordt University, is to make a statement and see where we’re at as a team,” Wildcats quarterback Arjun Lothe said.
To prepare, the team has been putting in hours training during the offseason that started in January.
“There is a lot of great energy and attitude walking out of a tough last season,” IWU head football coach Andrew Rode said.
The work in the weight room has also changed from last season, with former player Preston Sykes taking over the workout plans. They also had a switch at defensive coordinator. Defensive end Emmanuel Nnaemeka said they have had work for speed, stability and power in the weightroom.
“The defensive side of the ball will be changing up because of the coaching switch, but we’re going to try and dominate to the best of our ability” Nnaemeka said.
Under new defensive coordinator Isaac Bauer, the culture is shifting to adapt his attitude and outlook. The guys have responded very well to the new expectations according to special teams coordinator/linebackers coach Devin Bacchus.
“The biggest thing we are trying to build right now is internal leadership,” Bacchus said.
The team is not only working on things to better their game, but also their spiritual life and team unity.
“This offseason we have an emphasis on spiritual growth and staying together to work our way to a national championship by holding each other accountable and showing Christ’s love to each other,” Lothe said.
Being together as one will help them grow in new ways, leading to team and personal success on and off the field.
“There is a unity we hadn’t seen all of last season,” Rode said.
The anticipation is rising as they train.
“It is going to be exciting to test our skills against the new teams,” Nnaemeka said.
These new implementations will lead them into the season with the same excitement to perform at their highest level.
