Pullman High School’s football team is looking to improve on its 3-9 record in 2024 after a season filled with blowout losses and close heartbreakers, including a 7-6 loss to Lakeside when a missed extra point ended the game.
In 2024 the Greyhounds gave up 198 points to opponents, while they scored 103 points. On average they are nearly outscored two times what they score. The Greyhounds had a 5 game stretch where they played Spokane area schools, where they had a record of 2-3, losing by two scores in the losses but in the two wins they won by two possessions as well.
Despite last year’s struggles, confidence in the Greyhounds’ locker room is high. Senior linebacker and tight end Hunter Recknagle said the team is more united this season.
“We have a different vibe, we are closer and have a better culture,” Recknagle said.
He added that last year’s team was not as connected and that stronger chemistry will help players fight harder for one another. Head coach Kevin Agnew echoed that sentiment, saying this year’s seniors will be the key to improvement. He said he does not expect major scheme changes but said the team will focus on execution.
“Another year for our core players will be beneficial and help us get to where we want to be,” Agnew said.
Still, the Greyhounds will have to replace their entire offensive line. Recknagle admitted losing size could be an issue, but he is willing to help block more as a tight end if it means winning.
Senior quarterback Connor Stewart, however, sees reason for optimism.
Caleb Northcroft throws a pass against Rogers High School during first quarter, Sept. 22, in Pullman, Wash.
“We might’ve lost size, but we gained strength and better blocking, which I would rather have,” Stewart said.
Agnew hopes the team can focus on weekly improvement and aim to go 1-0 each week, even with a tough schedule that includes Spokane-area opponents like West Valley, which went 11-1 last year, and John R. Rogers, which finished 8-3 two years ago.
Pullman enters 2024 with challenges ahead, but the team believes its renewed culture and senior leadership can spark a turnaround. The Greyhounds are betting that their unity and experience will lead to a stronger season.
The Greyhounds will be taking on the Lakeside Eagles Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. at the Eagles stadium.
