Garden Plain has a reputation of excellence with their athletics. They have many coaches and factors that uphold their dominance and competitiveness. One of the factors that contributes the most is their summer weights program.
During the summer, Garden Plain athletes are invited to lift weights, and participate in conditioning and agility training. During the off season the athletes show up Monday through Thursday to participate in the training program. According to Coach Rice, GPHS Football Head Football Coach, and Strength and Conditioning Coach, GPHS had one of the best attendance rates the school has ever had. Coach Rice states, “The leadership, and the chemistry, created an atmosphere that guys want to be a part of.” There was a 95% attendance rate for players that are playing football. Coach Rice takes pride in the fundamentals and team bonding of football.
Along with Coach Rice, Kaeden Kasselman, varsity right tackle and defensive end, takes pride in the team bonding and effort of this program. According to Kasselman, “The best part of the summer was going to the actual workouts, but mainly the brotherhood and team building.”
Kaeden thinks as a team, they have great commitment, are very
intentional, take it seriously, and everyone shows effort. And, his favorite thing implemented this summer was the Southwestern College team camp, and the chance to get in pads. He is looking forward to competing, and to see some new guys step up.
This season GPHS is kicking it up with their training and team bonding. To prepare for the regular season, they are hosting a black and gold scrimmage. This event will be on Friday, August 30, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. at Gard Field.
