Demon football aiming to make it back to playoffs

By Jennifer Eisenbart

Sports Editor

For the last five years, the Burlington High School football team has circled the action in the Southern Lakes Conference – the playoff action, that is.

But a combination of close losses and frustrating injuries have combined to keep the Demons out of the playoff race since 2006.

But when you ask head coach Hans Block whether BHS is ready to end the drought, there is no doubt in his voice.

“Absolutely,” Block said. “The kids have been working really hard. I think we’re progressing.

“The attitude is positive,” he added. “I think that we’re more versatile this year.”

Block is optimistic about finding a balance between the running and passes facets of his offense, but also, about functioning under a defensive switch just installed last year when Bill Krien became defensive coordinator.

“It was a new scheme to us last year,” Block said. “Last year we brought in a 42 package.”

For the Demons, that meant less men on the line and more linebackers.

“It’s the second year in the system. The kids understand it better,” Block said. “We will build upon what we started last year.”

Back for the Demons are Jimmy Penzel, a senior defensive end, Matt Lunsmann, a senior defensive tackle, Dustin Peterson, a junior defensive end, and Parker Thompson, senior outside linebacker.

Ross Canales and Chad Redmer, both seniors, shared time at inside linebacker after Canales broke his ankle in week six of last season. Canales is back and healthy, and Redmer will play too.

It will depend on how much the two play on offense, Block explained. Canales is a running back/fullback for the Demons, while Redmer is a running back/slot receiver.

The other spots on defense are up for grabs right now, as Block has good depth.

“We have five kids we plan on rotating in at defensive tackle,” Block said. He also stressed

“What we’re trying to do is get our best kids on the field,” he added. “We’re also trying to keep kids fresh, so they aren’t playing the whole game both ways.”

On offense, the Demons return seven starters, including quarterback senior Jayden Essman. He will start again at the position.

“He has a full year of experience under his belt,” Block said. “He’s doing well. I’m pleased with where he’s at right now.”

Also back are linemen Lunsmann and Bryce Gauger, both seniors on the right side of the O-line. Ty Dennis is also back at wide receiver/tight end, having led the team in receptions last year.

In the backfield is Kasey Solofra, a senior wingback who plays multiple positions and was second on the team in receptions last year.

“He has also had a great summer,” Block said.

Canales and Redmer are also back. Others fitting into the mix are seniors Danny Kry, Koty Agnes and James Hartzel on the line, battling with a good group of juniors that include Luke Hesse, Greg Miller, Tyler Kirkeeng and Chris Runjo.

“Those kids are all battling, and that will make us better,” Block said.

Peterson could also see some time at running back, as could Lukas Dahl. Wyatt Miller and Larry Meeks could also see time.

Essman and Spencer Warner are battling for punting duties, while Warner and Brian Dankle are fighting for the placekicking position.

As a whole, Block feels good about this team’s depth. He said the top 18-20 kids are pretty talented, with things dropping off a little from there.

One of the keys, as a result, will be staying healthy. The Demons had a number of season-ending injuries last season, namely with key players.

“Our backup kids are progressing nicely,” he added. “Ultimately, we all get better.”

Block expects Lake Geneva Badger and Waterford to contend for the SLC title. Unfortunately for the Demons, they will face the Badgers at home in week two and will be at Waterford in week three.

“We have to be ready to play right away,” Block said. “We’ll find out right away what we can do.”

The Demons open at home against Racine Horlick Friday at 7 p.m.