WILBURTON DIGGERS
Coach: TROY BULLARD
2024 Record: 1-9
OFFENSE
Despite a tough 2024 campaign, the Wilburton Diggers are trending in the right direction under head coach Troy Bullard, who enters his fourth year with the program. With a healthy group and experienced players returning, expectations are higher heading into 2025. “We were plagued by injuries – mentality of never give up will pay off this season,” said Bullard. “Kids who were thrown into the fire as freshmen/sophomores are now experienced players.”
One of the key pieces to the Diggers’ offensive attack is running back Jason Wilkett (5-9, 190, Sr.), a quiet but relentless leader who rushed for over 1,700 yards last season. “He’s a beast in the weight room. Diamond in the rough. Takes care of his grades,” said Bullard. “He’s the silent character of our team – leads by example.”
Quarterback Braiden Grossnicklaus (6-1, 180, Sr.) returns after suffering a broken collarbone in the first game of 2024. “Braiden was back by Week 10 and threw four touchdowns,” said Bullard. “He’s a four-sport standout and just loves the game.”
Wilburton will continue to run its Slot-T offense, with the ground game setting up the pass. Fullback Evan Forwoodson (5-10, 215, Jr.) provides additional strength in the backfield, while receivers like Battle Brooks (5-10, 160, So.) and promising freshman Samuel Bambeck (6-1, 190, Fr.) add speed and playmaking ability.
DEFENSE
With nine returning starters, Wilburton’s defense enters the season with confidence and cohesion. The 4-2-5 scheme is built to eliminate screens and lean on a solid secondary. “Our secondary is our strength along with experience in game situations,” said Bullard.
Austin Brooks (5-7, 160, Sr.) is a captain and special teams ace at outside linebacker, while Kolby Valenzua (5-8, 160, Jr.) and Troy Johnston (5-9, 190, Sr.) anchor the defensive backfield. On the defensive line, seniors Adam Bentley (5-10, 180) and Wyatt Dean Ward (6-2, 200) bring toughness and leadership up front. Sophomore Eric Jiminez (5-8, 180) steps into the middle linebacker role and is expected to be a key contributor.
Keep an eye on Roman Brinlee (5-10, 175, Fr.) and Samuel Bambeck, who both possess the athleticism and versatility to become immediate impact players. Also emerging is freshman lineman Lariat Hammons (6-2, 270), who Bullard says “has great feet and will be a very good lineman.”
8-29 – at Gore
9-5 – OPEN
9-12 – at Hartshorne
9-19 – vs. Panama
9-26 – vs. Atoka
10-3 – at Henryetta
10-10 – vs. Spiro
10-16 – at Antlers
10-24 – at Vian
10-31 – vs. Valliant
11-7 – vs. Morris
