2024 Pigskin & Hoops Preview: Topeka West Chargers Football

TEAM: Topeka West Chargers

CLASSIFICATION: 5A

LEAGUE: United Kansas Conference

COLORS: Purple & White

SOCIAL MEDIA: @TopekaWestAthle on Twitter

HEAD COACH: Trey Parker (2nd year, 1-8)

2023 RECORD: 1-8 (lost in 5A first round)

2023 IN REVIEW

Trey Parker’s first season at the helm of Topeka West football was a difficult one, but that’s no surprise given that the Chargers are trying to build up their program in a difficult United Kansas Conference. The highlight of the season was their victory over Turner, but outside of that the Chargers had trouble finding consistency and being competitive. With a lot of youth and inexperience on the team, the hope is that they will grow from their difficulties.

KEY DEPARTURES

The Chargers will miss the talents of departed seniors Josh Nitschke and Kyrece Robinson, whose efforts earned them both second team All-UKC recognition. Nitschke was the offense’s best playmaker and Robinson was the top defensive standout for the Chargers.

TOP RETURNERS

Elijah Berg enters his senior season hoping to build off of his successful junior campaign that saw him become a two-way stalwart for Topeka West. He caught 22 passes for 300 yards and a touchdown on offense, and recorded 50 tackles at linebacker on defense. Fellow senior Trey Barr made plays in the rushing and receiving game last season and will have an expanded role this year. Up front, junior left tackle Logan Hunninghake had a terrific 2023 season and will anchor the offensive line, and sophomore Dorian Rhoten, who showed big promise as a freshman, will be the man to watch on the defensive line.

2024 SCHEDULE

9/6 @ De Soto

9/13 vs Shawnee Heights

9/20 @ Seaman

9/27 @ Lansing

10/3 (Thurs.) vs Basehor-Linwood

10/11 vs Turner

10/18 @ Leavenworth

10/25 vs Piper

United Kansas Conference

2024 OUTLOOK

Parker is exactly the right head coach to take on the challenge that Topeka West faces. His football knowledge, energy, and positivity are just what this young Charger team needs. Now that he’s entrenched as the head coach, expect even more growth from this group this season, but more importantly, expect that they’ll play hard on every snap. With leaders in the trenches and some promising playmakers on offense, this projects to be a much more competitive Charger team in 2024.

FROM THE COACH’S HEADSET

“We had a great summer, and we hope to take that momentum into the season and build on it! Players are starting to buy in and change the culture.  We look forward to playing hard and competing this season!” – Trey Parker

–Dan Lucero

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