What a year it was in 2020 for the Sandhills/Thedford football team. The Knights finished the season 12-1 and made its first appearance in co-op history in a state championship game. Sandhills/Thedford took home the Class D2 state runner-up trophy last season falling to BDS (Bruning/Davenport/Shickley) in the championship game 36-28. In a conversation with KCNI/KBBN sports, head coach Josh Deines said that he and the team did not really have the opportunity to truly reflect and appreciate what they had accomplished last season until Christmas break last year because they all had to quickly transition into winter sports. Coach Deines told Central Nebraska’s Sports Source that they are excited for the season and happy to be back together as a team.
Returning all state running back Dane Pokorny, who rushed for over 2,100 yards last season, highlights a strong core of returning players from last year’s team that hopes to make another run at a state title. Coach Deines said there are some holes to fill from last year’s squad most notably on the offensive line where they will look to replace players like Reed McFadden and Brayton Branic.
Sandhills/Thedford is preseason ranked #3 in Class D2 by the Omaha World Herald and preseason ranked #1 according to the Huskerland Prep Report. The Knights will open the season August 27th on the road against rival Mullen. Sandhills/Thedford will be featured on KBBN radio September 16th against Twin Loup ; September 24th vs South Loup ; and October 1st at Ansley/Litchfield.
Listen to our full interview with Sandhills/Thedford head coach Josh Deines
