SEILING WILDCATS
Coach: GARY MANUEL
12-2
Coming off a 12-2 season and another deep playoff run, Seiling finds itself in transition mode with one of its youngest lineups in recent years. Head coach Gary Manuel, now in his 14th year at the helm, watched 11 seniors graduate from last year’s roster, a group he notes included several four-year starters who formed the backbone of the program. That turnover means 2026 will feel very different week to week, but it also opens the door for a new core to emerge and put its own stamp on Wildcat football. Manuel simply describes this as “a young football team,” yet the expectation remains that Seiling will play fast, physical, and fundamentally sound as the next wave grows into expanded roles.
Offensively, the Wildcats return just two starters, but one of them is a crucial piece in junior quarterback Stryker Worman (5-9, 180). A three-year starter and the program’s VYPE Top 100 nominee, Worman will take full control of the offense this fall as he transitions into a true every-down quarterback after contributing at multiple spots earlier in his career. Manuel and his staff base out of Pro and Twins formations and “like to put our players in space and let them go to work,” a philosophy tailored to getting the ball to their best athletes without overcomplicating things for a young unit. Junior lineman Collin Howard (5-10, 240) is the other returning starter and will be relied on to stabilize the offensive line, handle communication up front and set the tone in the run and pass game. With so many new faces around them, Worman and Howard will be asked to provide poise and leadership, keeping the offense on schedule while younger teammates find their footing.
On defense, Seiling is in a similar spot, bringing back only two starters but staying committed to the 3-2 structure that has underpinned the program’s success. Manuel likes his players to be able to line up and play fast, so the scheme emphasizes simplicity, clear responsibilities and relentless pursuit over exotic looks. Worman doubles as a defensive back, giving Seiling an experienced voice on the back end who understands not only the coverages but the intent of opposing quarterbacks. Senior lineman Kason Smart (5-10, 210) is the other returning starter and will anchor the defensive front, where his job will be to control the line of scrimmage and mentor younger linemen stepping into varsity roles. With Worman leading on both sides of the ball and Smart providing senior toughness up front, Seiling will lean heavily on its small group of veterans as it reshapes the roster and works to extend the program’s winning tradition into another season.
8-28 – vs. Shattuck
9-4 – at Oklahoma Bible Academy
9-11 – vs. Okeene
9-25 – vs. Weleetka
10-2 – at Dewar
10-9 – at Cherokee
10-15 – vs. Pioneer-Pleasant Vale
10-23 – at Laverne
10-30 – vs. Burns Flat
11-5 – at Waukomis
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