Two-A-Days: Cherokee Braves

CHEROKEE, Iowa (KCAU) – The Cherokee Braves made its return to the playoffs while recording its first season over .500 in almost a decade while making a playoff appearance in Class 2A.

The Braves return standout QB Jaxon Paulsrud, who registered over 1,400 total yards and 18 touchdowns under center while leading the team in tackles on defense as a sophomore. Alongside him for another season is leading touchdown receiver Jacob Hurd.

For the Braves, they aim to continue building off last season for even more success in 2024.

“We pride ourselves on getting in the weight room and doing the right thing. I don’t say it’s required, but it’s somewhat required. If you want to compete on Friday night, you’ve got to put in the offseason work. I’ve always said football is a 12-month-a-year thing.” Cherokee head coach Tony Gunter said.

“I think our most important thing is staying healthy. A lot of guys are going to be playing both sides of the ball. If we all stay healthy, I think we can win a lot of games.” Cherokee wide receiver and defensive back Henry Lugar added.

Cherokee will start the 2024 season on the road, facing off against MMCRU in a highly-anticipated Week 1 matchup. The Braves have won five of the last six meetings against the Royals, including a 51-23 victory to open the season in 2023. This will be the fifth time in the last six years these teams will play each other in August.

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