Football Preview for 2025: Following the chaotic 2024 season, Walton-Verona's coach is leading a more seasoned team this year
Gary Pence, the head football coach of Walton-Verona, is entering his second year with the team. After a challenging start in the 2024 season, the Bearcats managed to finish strong, winning four games in a row and securing a spot in the Class 2A playoffs [1].
As the team prepares for the 2025 season, key returners and their roles are yet to be specified. However, the context suggests that Walton-Verona and other regional programs under second-year coaches are being closely watched for progress in year two [1].
One player to watch out for is senior wide receiver Brayden Donato, who is expected to be one of Avery Howe's primary targets in the air. Donato could potentially take over as the leading receiver this season, as Michael Oldfield, last year's leading receiver, sustained a dislocated knee this spring and may not return until October [2].
On the defensive side, the other returning starters in the defensive backfield are Brayden Donato and junior Cooper Burch. The performance of these players, along with the team's other returners, will be crucial in shaping Walton-Verona's defensive strategy for the upcoming season.
Junior linebacker AJ Yutze, who recorded a team-high 99 tackles last season, could stand out as "one of the best linebackers in Northern Kentucky" [2]. Another player to keep an eye on is sophomore Andrew Lynn, who has been called "pound for pound our best athlete in regards to size, strength and speed" by coach Gary Pence [2]. Lynn is expected to fill the void left by Carter Daniels, who accounted for 70 percent of the team's rushing yards and scored 10 touchdowns last season, and will likely continue to double duty at safety in addition to his role as a running back.
The 2025 schedule for Walton-Verona is yet to be announced, but the team is expected to face marquee games week by week [1]. In the 2024 season, the Bearcats played against Brossart, Ludlow, Boone County, Harrison County, Bracken County, Beechwood, Gallatin County, Owen County, St. Henry, and Grant County [2].
As the season approaches, fans and supporters can stay updated by checking Walton-Verona’s official athletics page or recent local sports coverage for updates closer to or during the 2025 season.
[1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2]
- Gary Pence, the head football coach of Walton-Verona in Northern Kentucky, is anticipating a crucial season for various returners, including senior wide receiver Brayden Donato and junior linebacker AJ Yutze, as they aim to progress in the 2025 season.
- Despite facing challenges in the 2024 season, Walton-Verona secured a place in the Class 2A playoffs and is being closely watched for advancement, particularly in the context of second-year coaches.
- Brayden Donato, who could potentially take over as the leading receiver this season, and junior Cooper Burch, defensive backfield returners, will play significant roles in shaping Walton-Verona's defensive strategy.
- Junior AJ Yutze, who recorded a team-high 99 tackles in the 2024 season, has drawn praise and could emerge as "one of the best linebackers in Northern Kentucky."
- Walton-Verona's 2025 football schedule has not been announced yet, but the team is expected to face high-profile opponents in each game, following the pattern established in the 2024 season when they played against Brossart, Ludlow, Boone County, and others.
