ASSUMPTION ROYALS LOOK TO TURN AROUND IN 2020

By Paul Lecker

Zaleski Sports

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – After a rough season in the Cloverwood Conference, the Wisconsin Rapids Assumption football team moves into the Central Wisconsin Conference Small Division looking for better success.

The Royals return 18 of their 22 starters from a 2019 squad that failed to win a game (0-9) and gave up 36 points or more in every game.

“I am proud of how my boys have responded, worked hard to better themselves and the team, and prepare themselves for the season,” Assumption coach Jeff Sullivan said. “With 18 of 22 returning starters, there is a sense of confidence and excitement about this season. We are still a young team, but many of last year's freshmen and sophomores saw a lot of game time and many started. We all just have to stay healthy. Boys need to play football!”

Sophomore Jack Klatt will take over at quarterback and will turn to a three-man backfield to carry an offense that relies heavily on the run.

Reed Duellman (541 yards, five touchdowns), Cade Statz (301 yards) and Nick Lebert (112 yards) will be the Royals’ running backs after all saw significant action last year.

Center/middle linebacker Ben Elsen is back for his senior season after finishing second on the team in tackles last season with 62.

Others to watch, according to Sullivan, are guard/defensive tackle Hunter Harms, tight end/defensive end Alec Sullivan, and wide receiver/defensive back Ryan Shaw.

Statz will also play linebacker, Leberg will play some defensive end, and Duellman will be one of the Royals’ defensive backs as well.

“Our team goals are to compete everyday whether it's game day, practice or school,” Sullivan said. “What is the legacy that you will leave behind?”

Assumption opens its season Friday, Sept. 25, at Pittsville, and will open its home schedule Saturday, Oct. 3, with an 11 a.m. kickoff against Rosholt.

ASSUMPTION FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Sept. 25 at Pittsville, 7 p.m.

Oct. 3 ROSHOLT, 11 a.m.

Oct. 9 at Almond-Bancroft, 7 p.m.

Oct. 15 LOYAL, 7 p.m.

Oct. 23 at Wild Rose, 7 p.m.

Oct. 30 PACELLI, 7 p.m.

Nov. 6 at Iola-Scandinavia, 7 p.m.

HOME GAMES IN CAPS, at Assumption High School.