OKEMAH PANTHERS
Coach: SHANE PAGE
1-9
There is a different energy around Okemah football this year, the kind that comes when a new coach takes over and a program gets a fresh start. The Panthers are determined to leave last season’s struggles behind and write a new chapter, and the work being done in summer workouts and passing league is setting the tone. With a new leader and players buying into a new approach, Okemah is focused on growth, toughness, and proving it can be more competitive on Friday nights.
Okemah heads into the new season looking to reset its identity on offense under first-year head coach Shane Page, who was hired the first week of June after missing most of spring practice. He has already seen encouraging signs from the group attending summer workouts and passing league, with the focus on building confidence and continuity in a new system. The Panthers will line up in a spread, air raid attack designed to get the ball out quickly and into space, allowing their athletes to create plays in the open field. With four offensive starters returning, Okemah has a foundation to grow, and standout lineman Kainan Coon (6-5, 250) gives the unit a physical, versatile presence up front as the Panthers work to become more efficient and explosive.
Defensively, Okemah will lean on a 3-3 stack that emphasizes movement, aggression and attacking the football. Page wants his defense flying to the ball and creating disruption, using angles and effort to compensate for a lack of depth or experience. The Panthers have four returning starters on defense, and that familiarity will help as they adjust to the scheme. Coon (6-5, 250) is also expected to be a key piece on this side of the ball, where his athleticism and motor can anchor the front and set the tone. With players committed to improving and a coaching staff intent on building a tougher, more cohesive defense, Okemah is aiming to take a clear step forward this fall.
8-28 – vs. Okmulgee
9-4 – at Henryetta
9-11 – vs. Stroud
9-25 – at Haskell
10-2 – vs. Coalgate
10-9 – at Hulbert
10-15 – vs. Vian
10-23 – at Panama
10-30 – vs. Pocola
11-6 – at Warner
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