(Melcher-Dallas) -- The KMA Sports Summer Football Preview Series heads to Melcher-Dallas today, where the Saints get ready to begin Jason Mason's third year as head coach.
"We've got a lot of big shoes to fill from last year," Mason said. "But so far, we've had a good summer. We came into our camp with good focus. We have more youth than we've had in past years, but we're getting it dialed in."
Mason and his staff have been molding this year's bunch since the calendar turned to August.
"I still think we're searching for our identity," Mason said. "We have a nice freshman class that has come in and done a good job of working hard. We have a lot of things to look forward to."
The Saints went 1-8 last year. Their lone win came in the second game against Twin Cedars.
"There were a lot of games we played well even if the scoreboard didn't reflect that," Mason said. "One thing we learned is that if we stay disciplined and keep the main thing the main thing, we're capable of a lot of good things going forward."
Sophomore Kyler Reschly will pioneer the Saints' offense, while Rocky Johnson returns to the attack after hauling in 17 passes for 301 yards and five touchdowns last year. Reschly and Johnson will work behind an experienced offensive line.
"It all starts up front," Mason said. "They can play faster. I think that's going to be beneficial. Hopefully, we can get some lanes in the middle, on the edges and run the football well. Kyler has worked a lot on his mechanics, and Rocky is good in space."
On defense, Hunter DeGard is their top returning tackler. He had 46.5 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and five sacks last year. Kai Marshawn Thorardson also caused some mayhem with 18 tackles, three sacks and three tackles for loss in 2025.
"I think we bring speed this year," Mason said. "We're still undersized, but that's OK. Defense is probably going to be our strong suit. I'm looking forward to that."
The Saints have not accomplished a winning season since 2017. To do so, they will have to hold their own out of an 8-Player District 7 that also features Baxter, Montezuma, Moravia, Southeast Warren, Twin Cedars and Wayne. Their season begins on Friday against Lamoni.
"We've got to get one percent better every day," Mason said. "Ideally, I think we can win a few games. It's just going to take a lot of discipline and focus."
Hear the full interview with Coach Mason below.