Jayhawk Linn improved despite record

By Dion Clisso PrepsKC Managing Editor
Posted: May 10, 2011 - 11:01 AM



It might have been tough to judge Jayhawk Linn based solely on its record in 2010. The Jayhawks went 1-8 but their schedule was loaded with six playoff teams and two more teams that didn’t make the playoffs but finished with a winning record.

Wins were hard to come by for Jayhawk Linn especially in a Pioneer League that features three Class 4A teams (Osawatomie, Prairie View and Anderson County), two 3A teams (Wellsville and Central Heights) and the Jayhawks.

After a tough eight-game losing streak to start the season, Jayhawk Linn defeated Humboldt 34-14 in the final week of the season for its only win of the season.

Even with only one win Jayhawks Head Coach Kirk Holt thought his team did get better as the season went on.

“The highlight of our season was getting that win in our final game of the season,” Holt said. “During the season we got better on our overall toughness and we gained a greater understanding of our offense.”

The Jayhawks hope to use that final game as a springboard into a more positive 2011. Jayhawk Linn lost six seniors, five who started, from the 2010 squad so the Jayhawks will be filling a few holes this year.

The offseason is going well and Holt said there are a few things the team needs to focus on for the upcoming season.

“We need to improve in all areas, especially taking care of the football,” Holt said. “We had too many turnovers last year.

“The offseason has been fine. Most of our players compete in other sports and we encourage them to do so. We will really focus on our strength and speed this summer.”