The 2025 football season is only a couple months away, and the Owls are already preparing for what should be an exciting season. With the selection of “squad leaders” coming up in a few weeks, a strategy implemented by head coach Todd Rice that creates unity within the team, players are eager to step up and take on these leadership roles. These squad leaders will be responsible for setting the tone in practice, motivating players, understanding and supporting his teammates, and ensuring everyone stays focused on team goals.
Coach Rice, now entering his fourth year as the head coach of the Owls, has emphasized accountability, attention to detail, and teamwork key components to success in his program. “Squad leaders create a designated role within the team, putting the leadership of our team on the shoulders of our players. When they hold one another accountable, they create a bond stronger than family,” Rice explained. “Our best teams were the ones with excellent leadership, and that leadership doesn’t come from our coaches, but the outstanding young men in our community.”
The process of being elected as a squad leader involves a combination of player voting and coaching staff evaluations. Players who demonstrate strong leadership qualities, a commitment to the team’s success over their own, and a positive attitude on and off the field are considered for the role. Coach Rice and his staff review each candidate’s work ethic, accountability, and ability to lead by example on the field in front of his teammates.
The process requires multiple steps, and nominations from both their teammates and teachers. When a player fills out the application, that is just the beginning of a long journey to becoming a squad leader. They then must get evaluations from their teachers in regards to their dedication and leadership in the classroom. When all is said and done, eight finalists will be selected and evaluated by the coaching staff for the positions. After a long interview with coaches, players will then be selected to become a squad leader.
The system ensures that squad leaders are not only respected by their teammates, but also trusted by the coaching staff to uphold the team’s values. Once selected, these leaders take on additional responsibilities, such as hosting squad meetings, team building activities, and setting standards for discipline and effort.
Ultimately the selection of squad leaders is more than just titles. It’s about selecting the right person to carry on the tradition of Garden Plain football, who has and demonstrates the aspects of a leader, and wants the best for his team. Regardless of age, position, or skill, coach Rice is looking for someone who demonstrates what it means to be a part of the Owls football family.
Returning two-way starter Pete McGregor is one of several returning upperclassmen who are in the mix for the leadership roles. Last year, McGregor was a squad leader and is reapplying this year. “I am reapplying to be a squad leader, to continue to build a tradition as a team and community. My goal is to be a leader for the younger guys, and help each one of them reach their own personal goals while working towards our team goals as well. Just like coach Rice said, teams are led by players not coaches. There is a big difference between a team that is coached and a team that is led from within. When players take ownership, hold each other accountable, and push one another to be their best everyday, that’s when a team becomes special,” said McGregor.
With a talented roster full of several returning starters, the Owls are looking forward to building on last year’s success and making a strong push at a league title. As the selection of squad leaders approaches, the team’s chemistry and work ethic will be on full display–setting the stage for what promises to be a great season ahead.
