WEBSTER GROVES STATESMEN – FOOTBALL

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Webster Groves High School went 4–6 and will lean on a senior class that has stepped into major leadership roles. Head coach Conner White, in his fifth year, writes, “We are graduating a very talented class of 2026. But this year senior class has stepped up in a huge role with leadership in the Weyman on the field. We are also ready for a lot of our upcoming juniors to take another step and will be a huge help for us on Friday nights.” His staff includes Brandon Patterson, Aaron Arnold, Tavares Thompson, Jaredd Williams, David Parker and Aqualis Brown.

Offensively, Webster Groves returns three starters and will be primarily a 21‑personnel offense (2 backs, 1 tight end) with the flexibility to be multiple. White writes, “High school football always has been always will be about running the football. We pride ourselves on being able to run the football on a consistent basis, and we feel like the added quarterback run game will make us dynamic in that area.” Junior quarterback Henry Rycenga (6‑0, 170), junior running back King Mitchell (5‑10, 185), senior guard Everett Zemper (5‑10, 240), senior center Max Bloomer (5‑10, 240) and junior receiver Asa Franklin (5‑11, 165) headline the offense.

Defensively, seven starters return in a four‑down front base. White says they are “trying to add multiplicity in our formations, but simplicity” in teaching and structure, and that they have “the most returning talent on defense” as they enter year two in this system, expecting a “huge leap” in understanding and execution. Senior defensive end Charlie Osdieck (6‑4, 210), senior defensive tackle Everett Zemper, junior linebacker Noah Banks (6‑0, 205), junior corner LaTwan Crews (6‑1, 190), senior linebacker Kareem Saffaf (6‑0, 220) and senior safety Sean Cooper (5‑9, 160) make up the listed defensive core.

Osdieck is the MVP nominee; White says he has “set the standard for our team in terms of his off-season preparation, and in season intensity,” goes “100 miles an hour on every snap,” and will be “a standup player” this year. Underclassman Morgan Smith will play “a huge role… on offense, special teams and defense,” with a work ethic that will keep him on the field. 

Francis Howell North – home (8/28)

Affton – away (9/11)

Parkway South – away (9/18)

Mehlville – home (9/25)

Oakville – away (10/2)

Normandy – home (10/9)

Northwest – away (10/16)

McCluer North – home (10/23)