Jasper looks to improve under new coach

Jasper, Missouri's Jasper Eagles aim to improve their performance under new head coach Justin Sentlinger. The team has struggled in recent years, finishing 4-6 last season and going 1-19 in the past two seasons. Sentlinger, a Jasper native and former assistant coach, will lead the program as it prepares for a challenging regular season schedule filled with playoff-bound opponents.

Sentlinger emphasized the importance of instilling pride and positivity in the players, stating that the team needs to work on taking pride in their performance. The coach also revealed that the Eagles will adopt a more option-based offensive strategy, relying on a young offensive line featuring sophomores Baylor Rush and Eric Munoz, as well as senior Gage Mitchell, a 6'5", 260-pound athlete.

Quarterback Colt Storm, a sophomore, will take the snaps after making an early transition to the position. Sentlinger praised Storm's quick understanding of the system and his ability to read the option, while also looking to freshman fullback Eastin Pettiborn and juniors Haiden Warner and Wyatt Mahurin to bolster the backfield.

Looking ahead, Jasper will face a tough opener against the Archie Whirlwinds on Friday, a team that recently claimed state titles in 2023 and 2024. Sentlinger welcomed the challenge, viewing the tough first game as a "litmus test" for the team's abilities. Jasper's season schedule includes games against Bronaugh, Liberal, Midway, Rich Hill, Appleton City, Montrose, Greenfield, Drexel, Lockwood, Golden City, and Osceola.