PREVIEW: Peru State readies for 2023

PERU, Neb - As football season looms ever closer, Peru State looks to take another step forward under head coach Phil Ockinga.

The Bobcats were picked second in the the Heart North Preseason Poll. After a 6-5 year in 2022 (4-1 in the Heart North) Coach Ockinga says the Bobcats are excited for 2023. 

"It was kind of phase one," Ockinga said. "It was kind of survival through the first two years, but this year we return the majority of the team, and we've really upgraded at a few positions, so we're really excited for this upcoming year."

Defensive lineman and captain Devin Adams says he's also excited by the mix of new talent with veteran experience. 

"I'm feeling pretty confident," Adams said. "We have a bunch of young guys, but we also have a lot of experience, so now it's time to show some of that experience and all the things we've worked on throughout the spring."

As coach Ockinga embarks on year three at the helm, while his focus to the on-field product continues, he aims to continue making Peru State a better university. 

"When I took the job, I thought of it as more than just a football job," Ockinga said. "But I wanted to make it important for the college to succeed also... We have a $15,000,000 complex going up, we're renovating the field house.. We've been raising tons of money to help the boys, I think it helps their pride when we make it a better situation for them."

The Bobcats start the season at home on Aug. 26 hosting Hastings.