By Chris Parker
Skyline football has a new head coach but a familiar face leading the program this season in Sean Kelley. He coached at Skyline from 2014 through 2022 and now returns as the head coach.
“Being a Skyline grad myself, I understand what a special community this is and their commitment to excellence in all things,” Kelley said. “As someone who was a part of starting the program in its initial years, I want nothing but the best for the program.”
He takes over a program coming off back-to-back two-win seasons.
Offensively, five starters return led by senior Tyler Henry in the backfield. He had 109 carries for 434 yards last season.
“Tyler Henry is a senior who has really put in the time in the offseason,” Kelley said. “He’s gotten bigger and stronger and will be asked to lead us on defense and carry the load on offense.”
Sophomore Carter King returns at quarterback after playing 10 games there a year ago as a freshman. He had 42 completions for 519 yards and six touchdowns.
Camden West, Blake Millbern, Quintion Butts and Kenton Owen will look to fill receiver spots at the varsity level. Shae Cobb and Carson Sullivan will be battling for a tight end position.
Isaiah Pippins, Jayden Moppin, Logan Moppin, Carter Millbern, and Wyatt Stoner will be on the offensive line.
Defensively, four starters return led by Stoner up front on the defensive line. He was second on the team with 91 total tackles last season. Stoner also forced and recovered three fumbles in 2023.
Jayden Moppin and Millbern will also be on the defensive line.
Look for Henry and Logan Moppin at linebacker.
The secondary will be young but have some experience.
This season Skyline is not only going through a coaching change but also a conference change. The Tigers will join the Southwest Conference after many years in the Mid-Lakes Conference.
“We are excited for the opportunity to join the new conference,” Kelley said. “Every week will be important as we try to establish ourselves and compete.”
Skyline travels to Warsaw for a jamboree on Aug. 23 with the host Wildcats, Eldon and Buffalo. The Tigers open the regular season on Aug. 30 at Sarcoxie.
