Brophy Varsity Football is forming a new identity through a hard-working freshman class and strong leadership. They are adopting toughness and keeping the strong roots of a determined Brophy community in place.

After the loss of many influential players who graduated last year, coaches were faced with the challenge of introducing many new and young players to the team. Coaches have made the most adjustments on the offensive and defensive lines. Overall, coaches hope for young players to gain more varsity experience throughout the season and improve their leadership and athletic abilities.

“Last year we were kind of loaded on the offensive line and defensive line…I think that that’s where we can improve the most, with a lot of young players being depended on on both the offensive line and the defensive line, and that’s crucial to being strong in those areas,” said Coach Kyle Vanden Bosch.

From the senior player’s perspective, especially those on the defensive line, they have noticed an increased need for leadership. “The biggest loss that we have from last year was leadership on the team; we lost a lot of seniors, and I think we adapted very well,” said Joshua Finch-Logan ’26.

When asked about how he can use his leadership to mentor the younger athletes, Joshua Finch-Logan said, “Using my experience of being on the varsity team for a long time, I’m showing them more of a leadership standard. Instead of setting the bar low, I’m setting the bar high for the team, showing them that they all need to step up.”

A key theme for the Broncos this season, especially in practice, has been “toughness.” Coaches strive for Brophy Football to be “tough” and recognized as that by other teams.

Coach Vanden Bosch said, “Football is a hard sport, it’s hard to get up early, it’s hard to lift weights year round, it’s hard to go out there and practice and play when you’re sore…But I think the biggest badge of honor for a football player is just to be tough and to be recognized as a tough team. And I do think that we have that.”

After finishing 10-3 last season and losing in the 6A State Playoffs, the Broncos strive for vengeance and a championship.