Joplin, Webb City get ready for season opener with weekend jamboree

Fans of Joplin and Webb City football teams had a chance to see their respective 2026 squads at the Webb City Football Jamboree on Friday at Cardinal Stadium. Both coaches assessed their players during the event. While the two teams from the Central Ozark Conference did not face each other in a game, they played against Big 8 schools Lamar and Seneca. Joplin began with a contest against Seneca, a Class 3 champion, and concluded with a scrimmage against Lamar.

Coach Curtis Jasper of Joplin acknowledged that there were some penalties during the game but emphasized the team's hard work and improvement areas. He noted that quarterback Trenton McCadney, the likely starter this season, performed well in scrambles, feeling comfortable and glad to be out there with his teammates. McCadney mentioned that the scramble game and his ability to find an escape route were contributing factors to his performance.

Defensive end Judah Meredith evaluated his team's performance against Seneca, recognizing that there were communication issues but expressing satisfaction with the unit's unity and execution against Lamar. Webb City head coach Ryan McFarland reported that his team was healthy for the upcoming season, highlighting the offensive run game as a strength but expressing a desire for improvement in the passing game.

Quarterback Mason Young praised the offensive line, backs, and receivers, acknowledging a few mental mistakes but overall satisfaction with the team's performance.

Joplin is set to travel to Springfield for a 7 p.m. Friday season opener against Kickapoo, while Webb City will face Glendale at the same time in Springfield, marking their first matchup in recent history.