ADA COUGARS
Coach: WADE BOYLES
10-2
Ada heads into 2026 coming off a 10-2 campaign with a solid returning core on both sides of the ball and an identity built around space, matchups and balance. With five offensive and five defensive starters back, the Cougars expect to again contend behind a spread attack that uses the entire width of the field to create favorable one‑on‑one situations. The offensive philosophy is to stay balanced—running the ball effectively while also taking advantage of opportunities in the passing game—to keep defenses guessing and off‑balance for four quarters.
Senior wide receiver Canaan Parker is a proven playmaker after hauling in 30 receptions for 567 yards and six touchdowns last season. He’s joined in the skill group by senior running back Cody Carpenter, who rushed for 193 yards and two scores, and junior wideout Rhett Klaus, giving Ada experience and versatility at the skill positions. Up front, right tackle Gage Van Horn (6‑2, 255) and left guard Jimmy Gonzalez (6‑0, 260) provide size and stability in the trenches. Coach Boyles says sophomore receiver Tyse Williams (6‑3, 180) is “going to be a special player,” and is praised as an outstanding player and unbelievable athlete with size, speed and great hands who is emerging as a huge playmaker.
Defensively, Ada brings back five starters and has impact players at every level. Senior defensive tackle Jayman Ivy (6‑1, 255) anchors the interior after posting 35 tackles and three sacks, bringing strength and disruption inside. In the secondary, senior defensive back Matthew Hutchins (5‑10, 170) returns after recording 27 tackles and five pass breakups, while junior DB Henry McClellan adds more athleticism on the back end. On the edge, senior defensive end Gus Matthews (6‑6, 255) is the team’s VYPE Top 100 nominee; coaches rave about his great size and speed and describe him as “super athletic for a big guy” with clear Division I talent. Carpenter also contributes at linebacker, and Jaylon Wortham (6‑0, 185) gives the defense another physical presence. With a mix of proven production, line strength and high‑ceiling athletes like Matthews and Williams, the Cougars have the pieces in place to chase another big season.
8-28 – vs. Durant
9-4 – at Ardmore
9-11 – at McAlester
9-25 – at Hilldale
10-2 – vs. McLain
10-9 – at Poteau
10-15 – vs. Sallisaw
10-23 – vs. Mannford
10-30 – at Broken Bow
11-6 – vs. Stilwell
To nominate a high school student for a feature in VYPE Magazine email a nomination to [email protected]
