Wilmington Football: Inches Away From More Wins

The Wilmington Greyhounds are driven by close calls from their 2025 season, aiming to convert narrow defeats into victories in 2026. Despite an 8-4 record, three losses were decided by less than a touchdown, including a district final game that has motivated their offseason training. Coach Brandon Phillian notes the challenge of replacing experienced players but is confident in his team's commitment to toughness and accountability.

Key to their success will be senior Chase Mitcheltree, an All-State selection expected to lead the offense and anchor the secondary. He is joined by versatile athletes Cam and Cael Kettering, and quarterback Rowan Miller, who also contributes defensively. The team's philosophy centers on physical play and controlling the line of scrimmage, with Jaron Lohrenz and Jude Beatty key figures on the offensive line.

Defensively, the Greyhounds plan to field an aggressive and disciplined front to disrupt opposing offenses. With strong players like Lohrenz and Beatty on the defensive line, and Miller and Mitcheltree in the secondary, they aim for a dominant unit. Their season begins with a challenging road game against Slippery Rock, as the team strives to achieve more than last year's eight wins.