MONETT CUBS – FOOTBALL

.

Monett High School finished 5-6 in 2025, and head coach Ben Mauk, now entering his second year at the helm, believes the program is trending in the right direction as it moves into year three of its offensive and defensive systems.

“Heading into year 3 of our offensive and defensive schemes, I am really excited about our progress. We have continued to get better each year, and we are looking forward to our senior leadership carrying the 2026 team as far as they want to go.”

Mauk’s staff includes Mike Mauk (offensive coordinator), Jonathan Mauk (defensive coordinator), Travis Stokes (linebackers), Keith Parris (offensive line), Stephen McKay (wide receivers), Jesse Galloway (defensive line), Dustin Stellwagen (offensive assistant), Sean Kelley (director of football operations) and Hector Cruz (player personnel/alumni relations).

Offensively, the Cubs return seven starters and operate out of a 5-Wide formation designed to spread teams out and let their playmakers work. “We want to stretch the ball vertically and from sideline to sideline. We want to play fast and let our athletes make plays.” Senior quarterback Dylan Washick, a 6-4, 200-pound three-year starter, threw for 4,433 yards and 44 touchdowns last season. He’s drawn all-conference, all-district and all-area recognition, and Mauk expects college offers to follow this spring. Senior receivers Carson Nestleroad (1,342 yards) and Brayden Seitz (823 yards) give Washick a pair of proven targets, while linemen Jose Garcia, Luis Serrano and Oscar Hinojosa anchor the offensive front.

Defensively, Monett returns six starters and runs a Stunt 4-3. “We want to be gap sound and force the ball to the perimeter.” Senior linebacker Aiden Rivera led the unit with 122 tackles last season, and he’s joined by fellow defenders Kelton Carr, Chris Calhoun, Kasen Carr, Chris Spears and Henry Reed.

Washick is the team’s MVP nominee, with Mauk noting he’s led the state in passing the past two seasons and stands as Monett’s all-time career and single-season leader in passing yards and touchdowns. Sophomore receiver Kyler Rivera is the underclassman to watch, expected to be one of the state’s best young pass-catchers.

8/28 – at Cassville

9/4 – vs. Mt. Vernon

9/11 – at Nevada

9/25 – vs. Aurora

10/2 – at Seneca

10/9 – vs. McDonald County

10/16 – at East Newton

10/23 – vs. Lamar

10/30 – District 1st Round (TBA)