By Jordan Burton (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
Ethan Lewis takes over a Monett program that is just five seasons removed from its state championship.
Following stops in Oklahoma and Arizona, Lewis inherits a team that went 2-8 but does return 13 starters from the 2021 campaign.
As he puts his fingerprints on the program, he plans to install a culture that values details.
“I’m a stickler on the little things,” said Lewis. “The small pieces make up the bigger picture instead of just looking at the big picture.
“We’re really excited. We’ve enjoyed getting to know the kids. I’ve been here since May 1st so trying to put in place the new culture and new ways of doing things. We are excited about what the future holds.”
Lewis is excited about several of his returners.
Connor Pointer and Josh Harvey are two players he expects to get touches often.
“Connor is a dynamic athlete,” said Lewis. “We need to find a way to get him touches in space. Josh is a bruising and physical back. At 6-foot, 220 pounds we’re really excited about what he can do.”
Jake Hout, Draven Madrid and Marcus Young have also impressed Lewis with their versatility and toughness.
Sophomores Landon Brant and Porter Reid will also be thrown into the fire.
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Senior Jordan Thompson will make his home on both sides of the line. He’ll be joined on the offensive line by classmates Hunter Laning, senior Keller Snodgrass, senior Isaac Ticknor and junior Aidan Smith.
Offensively Monett will look to feature a power run game that includes some counters and play action. Defensively the Cubs will show multiple fronts and look to play with speed and aggression.
The ultimate goal is to win championships but that doesn’t happen overnight. Especially in a loaded Big 8.
Lewis understands the challenges of the league and he is hopeful to re-establish the foundation of something that can be special.
“We’re trying to create as much competition as we can,” said Lewis. “We’ll need to take each week as it comes, continuously showing improvement, and dedication to team togetherness.
“I expect that every week will be a game, regardless of who we are playing. We have to show up every Friday night ready to play, compete.”
Monett opens the 2022 season on Aug. 26 at Reeds Spring.
