Ozark has a new head coach in Ray Godfrey who took over as interim head coach in late May. He brings 25 total years of coaching experience with 16 years as a head coach. He has an 80-80 career record with five district titles.

It has been a quick turnaround, but Godfrey and the players have become familiar with each other quickly.

“Mostly getting to know the kids and coaching staff and them getting to know me. We have had to make some small schedule adjustments but overall it has been a good transition,” Godfrey said. “The kids have a great base to work with. They have put in a good offseason and are ready to begin a new season.”

Five offensive starters return led by Jett Easley who will play receiver and defensive back. He had 108 carries for 1,025 yards and 10 touchdowns with 40 receptions for 632 yards and three touchdowns. Easley earned first-team all-conference honors as an athlete.

“He (Easley) is a very instinctive player with a desire to win,” Godfrey said.

Caden O’Donnell takes over as the starting quarterback. He completed 27 passes for 300 yards and one touchdown last season.

Mereck Putt, Lucas Hanks, Westin Samson and Stanley Brice will be the team’s key receivers. Braxton Bell and Cade Wirtmiller will handle running back duties.

Hendrix Haymes returns at tight end where he earned second-team all-conference honors. He was also second-team all-conference as a defensive end.

Isaiah Collins, Sam Stark, Brody Hunt, Easton McCoy and Jacob Beasley will be on the offensive line and be a key to Ozark’s success.

“(We want to) control the line of scrimmage and be multiple,” Godfrey said.

Preston Essary, Collins and Haymes will be on the defensive line.

Look for Lucas Kronebusch, Bell, Brice and Will Fevold at linebacker.

Easley, Cade Morrison, Dalton Ray and Braylon Howard will be in the secondary.

Morrison earned second-team all-conference honors as a defensive back.

“He (Morrison) is a leader and quarterback in the secondary,” Godfrey said. “He gets everyone in the right place and has a nose for finding the football.”

Godfrey expects a big step forward for many players on the roster.

“We have high expectations for many, but Jett, Hendrix and Cade all have the possibility of achieving higher than last season,” Godfrey said. “A couple who could put themselves in position for postseason honors are Stanley Brice and Braxton Bell.”

Ozark hosts a jamboree with Kickapoo and Nixa on Aug. 22 before opening the season on Aug. 28 at home against Neosho.

“(We want) for the kids to play with energy and enthusiasm,” Godfrey said. “And no matter what happens to “play the next play”.”