CHSAA kicked of the 2025 season with their Annual Football Media Day hosted by the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High.

5A CHERRY CREEK BRUINS

Colorado’s most elite high school programs were in the building. And naturally, all eyes turned first to Cherry Creek. With five state titles in the last six years and a culture that’s the gold standard in 5A football, the Bruins didn’t just walk in—they arrived with the confidence of a team that knows what it takes to win, and the hunger to prove they can do it again. Led by head coach Dave Logan, Brady Vodicka, Ollie Miller, T.I. Umu-Cais, Braylon Hodge, Maxwell Lovette, Jayden Fox, Elijah Cromwell, and Strasi Sparaco. Cherry Creek wasted no time reminding everyone why they remain the benchmark for championship-caliber football in Colorado.

A Culture Rooted in Brotherhood and Chemistry

Quarterback Brady Vodicka was quick to credit the team’s off-field chemistry for their on-field success. According to him, this season’s bond is tighter than ever. He explained how trust becomes crucial when games hit the fourth quarter and adversity strikes. Having a team that knows each other well, that communicates without second-guessing, can often be the difference between a loss and a last-minute comeback.

It’s not just fluff—this group has clearly put in the work, both in the weight room and in building a sense of brotherhood. That’s where Cherry Creek sets itself apart. Every player knows their role, every unit has a shared mission, and the locker room culture is one that encourages accountability and connection.

Brady Vodicka: The Steady Hand Under Center

Coach Dave Logan didn’t hold back when praising his senior quarterback. Brady Vodicka has started every game since midway through his freshman year. In a time when many high school athletes chase stats and personal accolades, Brady has kept the focus on one thing: winning.

Logan shared that not once in Vodicka’s career has there been a conversation during game week about how many times the ball would be thrown. That’s rare. “It doesn’t matter if we throw it 14 times or 44 times—as long as we get the win,” Logan said. That selfless mindset is a big part of why Cherry Creek has stayed at the top of Colorado’s football scene.

Vodicka himself admitted that his biggest personal growth hasn’t been in arm strength or reading defenses—though those have improved—but in leadership. He’s more vocal now, more willing to mentor younger teammates, and he understands how to get the most out of those around him.

Starting Fresh: No Title to Defend, Just a Legacy to Build

One of the most telling quotes came from offensive lineman Ollie Miller, who emphasized that last season, while important, has no bearing on this one. “We’re not defending anything,” he said. “It’s a new season.”

That mindset shift is critical. Rather than resting on the laurels of past championships, the team is approaching the 2025 season as if they were coming off a losing record. It’s a mentality that fuels hunger. Every practice matters. Every rep counts.

Miller shared how Coach Logan asked them to imagine they were a 3–7 team with something to prove. That kind of mental preparation helps the players stay grounded, motivated, and focused on the present.

Trenches Matter: The Offensive Line’s Voice

Both Max Lovett and Ollie Miller gave insights into what’s driving this year’s offense: physicality and execution. Lovett pointed out that even though fans love watching flashy passes and highlight plays, real success starts with blocking. Whether it’s opening up lanes for the run game or giving Vodicka time to throw, the offensive line is the foundation.

He added, “I love blocking. I love moving the ball. It’s kind of like a risk-and-reward thing—if we do our job, we control the game.”

That philosophy permeates the entire team. Running back Jayden Fox backed it up by talking about how they practice like they play. If it’s a run-heavy week, blocking is drilled until it’s muscle memory. Every detail matters.

The Logan Blueprint: Take One Game at a Time

Perhaps the most repeated phrase during CHSAA Media Day came from Coach Dave Logan himself: “Take one game at a time.”

It sounds simple, but it’s a cornerstone of Cherry Creek’s long-term success. There’s no looking ahead to the playoffs. No scoreboard watching. Just focus, execution, and consistency week by week. That kind of mental discipline is rare in high school sports, and it’s what makes Cherry Creek a perennial powerhouse.

Players echoed that sentiment. Fox, for example, mentioned how every week is treated like it’s the most important game of the year. That’s how you build a legacy—brick by brick, snap by snap.

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4A BROOMFIELD EAGLES

Broomfield High School made a strong impression at the 2025 CHSAA Media Day. Representing the Eagles were Isaiah Garcia Perez, Walker Susuras and Alberto Cedillo, Caleb Dunn, Gavin Jensen, and Head Coach Robert O’Brien. The energy was clear: they’re not dwelling on the past—they’re building something new, and they’re doing it together.

Coach O’Brien opened the session with a reminder that “we are zero and zero, just like every other team in the state.” It set the tone: no one is living in the shadow of past glory. This year’s team is hungry, focused, and grounded.

Zero-Zero Mentality: Wipe the Slate Clean

Coach O’Brien emphasized that the Eagles aren’t banking on any previous season. “Not a single one of these guys has a state championship going on,” he said. That humility fuels a team culture centered around improvement.

Instead of chasing headlines or rankings, the focus is simple: get better every week. Whether it’s Week 5 or the state semifinals, Broomfield wants to peak in November. The mindset is gritty, mature, and relentless. Their real competition isn’t a rival team—it’s the version of themselves from yesterday.

Meet “ELD”: The Heart of the Team

At the core of the Eagles’ success lies their offensive line, proudly nicknamed “ELD” (Eagle Line Domination). It’s more than a playful acronym—it’s a symbol of their identity. These linemen aren’t just blocking—they’re imposing their will.

“They work extremely hard in the weight room, in practice, in everything,” said Coach O’Brien. Their chemistry and strength aren’t built overnight. These guys battle each other daily, forging a unit that thrives on physicality and precision.

Importantly, the team understands that playoff football in Colorado means unpredictable weather—rain, snow, mud. That’s why Broomfield is built to win the line of scrimmage and control games when it matters most.

Confidence Runs Deep in the Trenches

O-lineman Walker Susuras summed it up well: “We’re never out of the game. We’ve always had that confidence.” That mindset is critical. It’s what helps a team claw back when they’re down late or execute under pressure.

Isaiah Garcia Perez also stressed that playing with teammates you trust “gives you major confidence in everything you do.” These are players who’ve built bonds through workouts, film study, and countless reps. When you trust the guy next to you, you play faster, tougher, and smarter.

Leadership by Example

Rather than speeches and slogans, Broomfield players lead by what they do—how they show up, how they train, how they support each other. “Our players before us were great leaders,” said Isaiah. “We try to lead like them—by example.”

It’s a powerful cycle: leadership breeds leadership. That’s how culture sustains itself from one graduating class to the next. It’s also why Broomfield feels confident, even after losing key seniors.

Chemistry That Doesn’t Fade

Some programs rebuild every year. Broomfield reloads. Walker noted that their locker room is unified, from freshmen to seniors. “The chemistry’s always there,” he said. Even with new faces, the sense of brotherhood remains strong.

This chemistry isn’t just emotional—it’s tactical. It translates to smoother communication on the line, smarter decisions in crunch time, and a team that truly plays as one. That cohesion gives them a critical edge on game day.

Stay Present, Stay Hungry

Coach O’Brien described how the team stays locked into the present. “We are in the moment—in the drill, in the hour, in the day,” he said. It’s a disciplined, almost meditative approach that prevents distraction and burnout.

This philosophy extends to how they structure their season. There’s no talk about playoffs in August. The only goal is getting better today. It’s not glamorous—but it works.

Academic Discipline Drives Athletic Excellence

At Broomfield, classroom performance is non-negotiable. “If our students don’t have the grades, they’re ineligible—simple as that,” said O’Brien. The school enforces academic rules strictly, and players buy in completely.

What makes Broomfield different is how they live that mindset year-round. Even during summer, players joke about keeping their grades up. Academic support systems—like tutoring and check-ins—are embedded in the program. It’s not just about eligibility. It’s about creating opportunities for college, life, and beyond.

Football Is a Privilege, Not a Guarantee

Coach O’Brien is quick to remind players that scholarships can disappear the second you slack in class. “All of these guys want to play college football. Most already have offers. But without the grades, those offers go away.”

That reality has created a culture of accountability. Players understand that success in football starts in the classroom. It’s why recruiters trust Broomfield kids—not just for their toughness, but for their discipline.

A Culture That Wins the Long Game

From the zero-zero thumbs down mentality to the academic accountability, everything about Broomfield football points to long-term thinking. They’re not just trying to win games. They’re trying to build people.

The locker room is tight, the leadership is steady, and the effort is constant. They don’t care about flash—they care about fundamentals. They don’t chase headlines—they chase excellence.

If Broomfield is still standing in November, it won’t be because of talent alone. It’ll be because of trust, toughness, and the culture that binds it all together.

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3A THOMPSON VALLEY EAGLES

The Thompson Valley Eagles arrived at the 2025 CHSAA Media Day carrying more than just jerseys and smiles—they brought with them the pressure and pride of being defending 3A state champions. With a squad rich in returning talent, solid leadership, and a laser focus on building upon last season’s undefeated run, the Eagles are not resting on their laurels. Instead, they’re doubling down on discipline, unity, and belief in each other.

Here’s a look at the biggest takeaways from CHSAA Media Day and what to expect from Thompson Valley as they charge into the new season.

A Championship Mindset Fueled by Effort and Accountability

Tight end and linebacker Forest Roberts opened the day by highlighting the culture of accountability that defines Thompson Valley football. “You’re always aware of your effort with all the games being recorded,” Roberts shared. The film doesn’t lie, and neither does the team’s drive. Every rep matters. Every game, even in practice, has weight.

That kind of self-awareness is rare in high school athletes and speaks volumes about the structure Head Coach Jamie Steele has instilled.

Coach Jamie Steele: The Man Behind the Machine

Coming off an undefeated season and state title, Coach Steele didn’t focus on last year’s accolades. Instead, he talked about the joy of coaching a group that genuinely loves being together. “We have fun with this group… we respect one another and just enjoy the moment,” he said.

His approach is simple: foster team bonding, emphasize mutual respect, and let the athletes play freely within a disciplined system. According to Steele, it’s this balance that keeps the team hungry and humble despite high expectations.

Embracing Expectations, Not Running from Them

When asked how expectations from last year carry over, Coach Steele and the players all agreed: they welcome it.

Offensive lineman Josiah Manu emphasized that while the team lost key All-State talent like C.J. Day, the effort and internal motivation remain intact. “We’re really motivated… I think our effort will drive us further,” he said. In his view, effort is the engine, and this team has no shortage of fuel.

Manu’s mindset reflects the team’s belief in collective growth—yes, they lost stars, but new names are ready to shine.

Freshman Phenom Turned Sophomore Leader: Finley Lucas

One of the biggest storylines going into the 2025 season is the evolution of Lucas Finley, the freshman quarterback who led the team to a state title last year.

Coach Steele couldn’t stop praising the young QB: “To have a freshman quarterback is so unheard of… but he did a fabulous job and just kept his poise the whole time.” Finley wasn’t just managing games—he was winning them.

Now entering his sophomore year, Finley is looking forward to building on that momentum. “I’m just looking forward to playing with the guys again,” he said. His experience in high-stakes games so early has only boosted his confidence, and his leadership is emerging as a cornerstone of this year’s offense.

Rebuilding or Reloading? Defense Says the Latter

Fullback and inside linebacker Landry Suarez echoed Manu’s sentiment about replacing outgoing seniors. “We have just as many kids that are coming up that might be even better,” Suarez claimed. That’s a bold statement, but not one made lightly.

Suarez believes the defensive unit, in particular, could be “if not the same, but better” than last year’s squad. In a division as competitive as 3A, that’s exactly the kind of swagger a champion needs.

Keenan Parks: Representing and Rising

Another standout story from Media Day came from Keenan Parks, who committed to San Jose State University earlier this year. A dominant presence on the offensive and defensive line, Parks reflected on what made SJSU feel like the right fit.

“I grew up in Hawaii, and San Jose State has a lot of Polynesian coaching staff and players… so I kind of felt like home,” he shared. Parks’ story adds a personal layer to the team’s narrative: hard work not only brings team success, but also opens doors for individual futures.

The Road Ahead: Eyes on the First Opponent, Not Just the Repeat

With all the buzz around a repeat, you might think the Eagles are already looking ahead to the playoffs—but you’d be wrong.

“We’re focused on [our first game] right now,” one speaker reminded. This team understands that you don’t get to December without dominating August, September, and October.

By keeping their eyes on the immediate, Thompson Valley keeps the pressure manageable and the goals clear. One game at a time. One win at a time.

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2A THE CLASSICAL ACADEMY TITANS

As football season approaches, anticipation builds for programs across Colorado, and The Classical Academy (TCA) stands at the heart of it. Coming off a state title, the Titans made a strong impression at CHSAA Media Day—showcasing humility, preparation, and a fierce commitment to repeat their success in the 2A division.

Climbing the Mountain Again

Head coach Justin Rich set the tone with a powerful metaphor: “Getting that championship is equivalent to summiting Mount Everest.” That image resonated deeply—not only with the players but with anyone who understands the commitment it takes to reach the top. He reminded everyone that while the summit is an unforgettable experience, the journey starts all over again at base camp. But one thing remains untouchable: the memory of the climb.

Rich emphasized that while the thrill of the championship is fresh, it’s now time to refocus. “We’ve got to enjoy it,” he said, “and now we’ve got to come out to base camp and start over again.” The message was clear—what happened last year was special, but this team isn’t resting on it.

The Mental Edge

A winning culture doesn’t just build skill—it builds mindset. According to Rich, the Titans now understand how hard the climb is—and more importantly, how good it feels to get there. That emotional imprint is a huge motivator. With that taste of glory still fresh, the Titans enter this season with a renewed purpose.

Wide receiver and cornerback John Howe echoed that sentiment: “By the end of the year, we just want that feeling—that sense that there’s nothing more we could have done.” It’s not about being undefeated or holding a trophy. It’s about doing everything right—on and off the field—so there are no regrets when the clock hits zero in November.

Rebuilding with Vision

Despite the high of last season’s championship, the Titans face new challenges. TCA graduated a powerhouse senior class—22 players in total. That kind of turnover would rattle most teams, but Rich remains confident. “We will add some experience,” he said, “but I think we still have a lot of talent.”

That confidence stems from TCA’s unique environment. “We’re blessed to be at a place like The Classical Academy,” he added. It’s not just about football—it’s about culture, structure, and mindset. The school’s emphasis on discipline and learning gives the team a foundation few programs can match.

Where Academics Meet Athletics

One of the most unique aspects of TCA’s program is their academic excellence. “We’re the third highest academic school that plays football in the state,” said Rich. That distinction brings both challenges and benefits. Limited field time might concern other programs, but for TCA, it’s a secret weapon.

“Our school does such a great job preparing young men to learn and work hard,” Rich explained. What some may see as a disadvantage—less practice time—is actually an advantage in disguise. These players are fast learners, self-disciplined, and capable of managing high pressure with poise. In other words, they’re built for playoff football.

Strong Roots and Brotherhood

While many teams focus on plays and personnel, TCA puts just as much value on brotherhood. Fullback/linebacker Jackson Schipfer shared a heartfelt glimpse into that bond. “I’ve known these guys since kindergarten, some since preschool,” he said. “We’ve grown up playing football together.”

That long-standing camaraderie can’t be manufactured. It’s what makes TCA’s locker room special. These aren’t just teammates—they’re lifelong friends who understand each other both on and off the field. And when a team trusts each other that deeply, they move and play as one.

A Respect for the Competition

Despite their title, the Titans know the road back to the top won’t be easy. One name that keeps coming up is Wellington. “I know that Wellington’s really, really good,” said Rich. “I think they graduated one or two kids. They do a great job up there.”

There’s no false confidence here—only respect for the challenge ahead. Rich recognizes that every year brings new variables, new contenders, and new struggles. That humility, paired with preparation, is why TCA is more than just a titleholder—they’re a championship program.

Eyes on November

The team knows the playoffs don’t start until November—and they’re planning accordingly. “All we’ve got to do is get our ticket punched,” said Rich. And once that happens, it’s a new season: 16 teams, one goal. That’s when TCA’s culture of preparation truly shines. With a mix of returning players and emerging talent, the Titans believe they can peak when it matters most.

While the loss of senior experience is real, the team’s identity remains unchanged. Hard work, discipline, brotherhood, and belief. With those four cornerstones, they’re not just trying to climb the mountain again—they’re ready to conquer it.

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1A WRAY EAGLES

Wray, Colorado isn’t just a dot on the map when it comes to high school football—it’s a battleground of passion, grit, and tradition. In 2024, the Wray Eagles football team reignited that legacy with a dominant season culminating in a hard-fought state championship. The win wasn’t just another trophy; it was a statement of community pride, a tribute to relentless effort, and a clear reminder that Ray football still means business.

With over 418 tackles for loss, the Eagles dominated the stat sheet thanks to stellar performances from standout players like Austin Collins, Aaron Tena, Brody Riggleman, Brody Richards, and Bryson Lewis. But stats only tell part of the story. This was about something deeper—a belief in themselves and each other.

Football in Wray: More Than a Game

Head Coach Levi Kramer captured the essence of what football means in Ray perfectly. “It is extremely important to the community,” he said. “We get a ton of community support. It’s not just winning the state championship. As we make runs through the playoffs, the whole town comes out.”

He’s not exaggerating. When Wray hits the playoff trail, the town paints itself purple. Last year’s championship game was a sea of school spirit, with fans packing the stands in support. The roar, the energy, the shared hope—it’s the kind of moment that gives players and coaches goosebumps.

In small towns like Wray, football isn’t just about Friday nights—it’s about Friday pride. It’s about the whole community rallying behind its youth, its school, and its spirit. When the team takes the field, they carry the hopes of an entire town.

Rising from Doubt: The Underdog Mentality

Wray wasn’t always the favorite. In fact, they were written off early. But that’s exactly what fueled them. As one player put it, “It shows what Wray can do… it’s been a while since we won the state title. So being back on top shows that we’re capable of doing big things.”

There’s something magical about being doubted—about being the underdog. It forces you to grind harder, to fight for every inch, and to play with a chip on your shoulder. This team didn’t shy away from that role. They embraced it. And by the time the championship was within reach, they had silenced every doubter.

Defining Moments: The Building Blocks of a Championship

Ask Coach Kramer what defined their championship run, and he’ll take you back—not to the title game, but to Week 2. Facing Goodland, the team wasn’t clicking. Midway through the game, Casey Midcap, their All-State quarterback, made a bold statement. “Don’t ever throw the ball again. Give it to Sam. They can’t stop him.”

That was the turning point.

When your star player puts team success above personal stats, you know you’ve got something special. “That moment gave me goosebumps,” Kramer said. “We knew we had something then.” It was a revelation: these players weren’t just playing—they were all-in.

This selflessness and unity set the tone. The team bought in. From that moment on, they weren’t just athletes on the field—they were brothers.

From Lineman to Leaders: Player Reflections

The state championship wasn’t won in one game—it was built brick by brick, week by week. For offensive lineman and defensive end Brody Richards, it was the Midway through League game against Limon that cemented his belief in the team. “It was a game we had to win for ourselves. Once we won it, the way that we did, I knew I could look at all 11 guys and trust every single one of them.”

That kind of trust doesn’t come easy in football. It takes shared pain, mutual respect, and a bond forged through fire. Wyatt Fonte, a wide receiver and safety, reflected on the mindset going into the title game. “Everyone said we were underdogs,” he said. “But that 80-yard run to start off set the tone—we were going to play hard, smashmouth, powerful football.”

Aaron Tena echoed those thoughts: “That Limon game propelled us. It gave us confidence, boosted morale, and even improved our skills week by week. That game set the tone.”

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8-MAN HAXTUN BULLDOGS

The Haxtun Bulldogs are quietly building something exceptional. At CHSAA Media Day, head coach J.D. Stone and players like running back/defensive back Carter Lott and Zach Strotz opened up about what makes this year’s Bulldogs cohort different—and why, despite losing explosive playmakers, the program is sailing steady and strong.

Here’s a look inside the blueprint of a program centered on continuity, culture, and community support.

A Foundation of Returners and Experience

Coach Stone began by outlining the core strength of the Bulldogs’ roster. “We’re bringing back over half of the Coast [Guard] defense,” he shared. While Haxtun did graduate a few “pretty explosive players,” Stone emphasized the continuity that comes with returning veterans. He also pointed to a “senior class” defined by “incredible work ethic.”

That mix of tenured defenders and disciplined leadership anchors the team. Even amidst turnover, Haxtun doesn’t rebuild—they reload. And that’s a huge advantage in eight-man football, where every player wears multiple hats and details matter.

What Makes This Group Special

Media Day prompted Coach Stone to compare this year’s squad with the state championship team that came before. “Last year’s team we brought back a three‑year starter quarterback and he was a pretty explosive player,” Stone recalled. Replacing that kind of playmaker is never easy.

Yet what sets this team apart isn’t just replacement—it’s the culture. Stone praised their “work ethic” repeatedly and linked it to the fabric of the Haxtun community. The Bulldogs aren’t a one‑year wonder—they are the product of seasons of growth, mentorship, and continuity.

Program-Wide Continuity: A Haxtun Hallmark

Continuity in Haxtun extends far deeper than just the varsity roster. “My staff also coaches high school, is the junior high staff,” Stone explained. Many of the current players have effectively been Haxtun Bulldogs since sixth grade.

This pipeline—from elementary to junior high to high school—creates bonds and accountability that last a lifetime. Some players were even team managers during the 2021 state title before becoming key contributors themselves. That kind of long-term immersion builds more than skill—it builds identity.

As Stone put it: “Having our kids around each other all the time is just a key component to keeping our numbers where they’re at.” Haxtun doesn’t rely on luck or transient talent—it reinvests in itself every year.

Setting the Standard: Culture of Representation

Senior RB/DB Zach Strotz described how Haxtun’s culture takes hold long before the high school locker room. “If we’re outside… wearing a dog uniform or something with the Bulldog on it, we always know to… act like you’re representing the Bulldogs. Act nice, respectful.”

Representation at Haxtun starts at the elementary level, where younger kids look up to high school players as role models. Whether at school or in their hometown, the players understand that their behavior reflects the program—and influences the next generation.

Strotz added: “If you act rude… people view you poorly. If you’re respectful… they view you as nice and maybe come watch a game.” A core message: character matters just as much as production on the field.

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6-MAN CHEYENNE WELLS TIGERS

For the 6-man football squad from Cheyenne Wells, last season wasn’t just another year in the books—it was a defining chapter. The team leaned on a group of battle-tested seniors who had themselves been molded by greats from seasons prior. That kind of legacy builds a culture, a mindset, and a standard. So as those senior leaders have now moved on, the question is—who steps up?

Coach Myles Smith isn’t one to let uncertainty linger. His remarks at CHSAA Football Media Day reflected confidence, not concern. He emphasized how last year’s younger players were lucky to be immersed in high-level reps against those departing seniors—experience that, according to him, will now “be a huge help in their success” going into this new campaign.

The pressure might be higher. Expectations have never been greater. But with pressure comes opportunity. Cheyenne Wells isn’t stepping backward; they’re stepping up.

The Significance of Media Day for the Team

CHSAA Media Day is more than a microphone and a camera—it’s a symbol. It’s a moment where programs show who they are, not just what they’ve done. For Cheyenne Wells, their appearance signaled a readiness to maintain momentum and honor their program’s rising reputation in Colorado’s 6-man football ranks.

Being part of Media Day gave players and coaches a chance to express both gratitude for the past and excitement for what’s to come. It wasn’t just a PR moment; it was a pulse check. And if you listened closely, this team isn’t just healthy—they’re hungry.

Head Coach Myles Smith’s Vision for 2025

Learning Through Experience

Coach Myles Smith took the mic with an air of calm leadership. He knows this group isn’t raw—they’re rising. One of the biggest assets for this year’s team, as he pointed out, is the exposure the current players had last season. Practicing against seniors, absorbing their work ethic, and playing through high-pressure playoff games gave them a foundation that few young players get.

What Smith made clear is this: experience isn’t just about minutes on the field—it’s about soaking in the culture, observing champions in action, and learning how to carry the torch. That’s what these returning players have done.

Transitioning From Seniors to Young Leaders

Smith acknowledged that losing a big senior class is always a challenge. But he didn’t dwell on the loss. Instead, he spotlighted the opportunity: “For these guys to get those reps against those guys every day last year… will be a huge help.”

The shift from a senior-heavy team to one powered by underclassmen requires more than just skill—it demands leadership, maturity, and accountability. And that’s the mindset Smith is cultivating. He doesn’t expect his players to copy last year’s seniors—he wants them to evolve, to make their own mark.

As he put it, “They don’t look at it as we lost the top guys. They look at it as our opportunity to step up.” That’s the heart of the program in 2025.