A historic season could be on the horizon for Olpe football.
Head coach Chris Schmidt enters his 20th season at the helm after guiding the Eagles to 14 consecutive playoff appearances. Olpe is coming off a 7-3 campaign that ended with an overtime loss to Jackson Heights in the regional round of the playoffs. Despite the disappointing finish, Schmidt was pleased with the way his team competed throughout the season.
The Eagles return five starters on both offense and defense and will have a new face under center. Ryker Windle is set to take over at quarterback following the graduation of Brayden Lienemann. Schmidt believes Windle’s ability to throw the football adds another dimension to the offense.
Windle will have an experienced playmaker behind him in the backfield. Abbott Bailey returns after injuries limited him to just five games last season. Bailey is expected to start at running back and linebacker after averaging more than seven yards per carry and scoring five touchdowns in 2025. Brecken McGuire also returns as a two-year starter at wide receiver and cornerback, giving the Eagles another veteran presence on both sides of the ball. Schmidt is emphasizing attitude and sound fundamentals as Olpe prepares for another postseason push.
The Eagles are also approaching a significant milestone. The program enters the season just three victories shy of 500 all-time wins and will christen the new Olpe Fitness Park this fall. Schmidt says the new facility is already making a positive impact on both the football program and the community.
Olpe opens the 2026 season on Sept. 4 at its new home against Osage City in a matchup that will be the Area Game of the Week on Country 101.7 FM.
