OAKLEY, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — The Oakley Hornets have been a force in 8-man football, boasting a 41-5 record over the past four seasons and winning three state championships.

After a title appearance in 2023, the Hornets will replace 12 seniors from last year’s team.

The Hornets’ biggest challenge is building a younger roster that can handle the challenges after losing to Butte County in the state championship last season.

“Every year is a fresh start because kids come and go. However, this group of kids could be special,” head coach Brennan Jones told KMVT. “What has helped us the last few years is the willingness to prepare.”

Jones is in his sixth season with the Hornets. He led the Hornets to a 9-2 record (6-0 in the Snake River Conference) and a state championship. He was named the conference’s Coach of the Year following Oakley’s third consecutive championship.

Despite the move, Oakley isn’t giving up on their high expectations. They know that building a championship team takes more than just talent. It takes heart, grit and belief in the process.

“We’ve been playing together since we played football in preschool. This group has a good bond,” said senior Coy Jones. “We know how to talk and how to communicate effectively with each other.”

Jones is battling a football injury and will not be ready for the first game of the season.

“Everyone has us marked on the calendar. We know we’re a target,” added senior Kiethen Whittle. “We have to play our way and have fun. That’s all part of the game.”

The Hornets will be missing key seniors from last year’s team, including conference MVP Bry Severe, an all-state running back and defensive lineman.

Its graduates also include notable seniors Isaac Cranney, Kyler Robinson and Cooper Beck.

Oakley will be a rejuvenated team but will have some key players, such as the experienced Dallin Hardy, who should be watched as an explosive player on both sides of the ball.

Hardy was a first-team offensive lineman in 2023, but will play tight end on offense this season. He was also a first-team defensive lineman.

“We just have to show up and work. This group is a team and we’re ready for tough action,” Hardy said. “Our guys are going to work hard.”

Oakley’s path to a possible playoff spot will not be easy, but it never is.

The Hornets begin their season in Week 0 on the road against Grace, an opponent Oakley defeated last season to advance to the state championship game.

In Week 1, they will play on neutral ground in Homedale against powerhouse Kendrick. Kendrick is a three-time defending 1A D2 state champion. They were promoted to 2A this season.

The Hornets lost to Kendrick 44-22 in the 2023 “Battle on the Blue.”

Later in the year, Oakley will face Logos, who reached the semifinals of the state championship.

“We have to play the best teams we have,” Jones said. “We strive every year to have big games with a lot of quality opponents on our schedule.”

With its successful program and culture, Oakley wants to prove that it is still the team to beat.

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