After a series of injuries over the years, the Wilson Dragon football team is due for some good luck, veteran head coach Tony Brokes said.

At the same time, the Dragons must focus on simplicity, fundamentals and selfdiscipline in order to develop.

“The Dragons will look for leadership to bring young players around to varsity level,” said Brokes, whose teams have won two district titles in his 20 years at Wilson.

“Several young players will have to step up for this team to be successful.”

The Dragons return seven lettermen and four starters, including: juniors Donavan Lyne, Garrett Thielen, Dylan Crawford and Cooper Weinhold and seniors Cody Slechta and Westin Hughes.

Top newcomers include sophomore Camryn Eberhart.

In 2018, Wilson finished with a record of 2-7 and finished fifth in district.

“The district is looking very balanced with several teams looking to break into the playoffs,” Brokes said. “This could be a district that is undecided until the very end with Thunder Ridge and Osborne being the teams to beat.”

The Dragons kick off their 2019 season at 7 p.m. Friday at Southern Cloud.

Travis Weinhold is assistant coach.