High School Football Previews: Goddard Eisenhower Tigers

GODDARD, Kan. (KSNW) – Goddard Eisenhower is gearing up for redemption this football season after falling in the sub-state game against Kapaun in 2023.

However, there are still positives to take away from last season. The Tigers went 10-2 for their best record in school history. It was also the closest they’ve come to a state championship appearance.

The program is led by sixth-year head coach Darrin Fisher, who says he’s trying to help his athletes find the good in their 42-39 loss against the Crusaders and wants the players to use it as motivation for this year.

“We watch film and why we didn’t get to where we wanted to get to it,” said Fisher, “Execution. It’s only a couple of plays, and it’s it’s not bad. And, you know, they’re little things, but the goal is the same at the end. It’s to be holding up that trophy at the end and then wearing a ring.

Fisher says the goal is to determine the players’ strengths and continue improving those areas.

“Year in, year out, we always look a little bit different. And again, so we try to we try to adjust things to the strength of our our kids,” he explained.

The Tigers have 102 athletes this season, an even larger roster than in 2023. The coach says that’s a testament to the players’ desire to be a part of their culture.

“Just focus on success. Never have a bad day. You can’t let yesterday beat today. We want to eat, so we just do whatever we can. It’s just a buffet. We love this,” said Tigers senior middle linebacker Lucas Freeman.

Many of this year’s seniors have stepped up as leaders to help the underclassmen. The defense also succeeds from the strong communication between players and staff.

“Being able to adjust and like talk to coaches in between and give our insight on what we want to do and what we think is working out, I would say, that gives us the most edge,” explained Makai Tagatac, Tigers senior defensive end and nose tackle.

An exciting aspect of the schedule is their week two matchup against Goddard. While they trail the Lions 4-10 in the rivalry, they say they look forward to it every season.

“We’re just so close. We’re like two miles down the road,” said Tigers senior quarterback Derek Morgan. “So when we play, it just makes it that much more competitive. We want to win so bad.”

The Tigers open their season at home against Valley Center on Thursday, Sept. 5. Kick-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSN-TV.