Waverly football is hoping to take another step forward this fall after finishing 3-6 a season ago. While the record wasn’t where the Bulldogs wanted it, head coach Nick Fraenza said the team showed steady improvement as the season progressed and believes that growth can carry into 2026.
The Bulldogs return one of the area’s top two-way players in senior Dustin Foster. Foster earned First Team Lyon County League honors at both flex and linebacker last season and will once again lead the offense at quarterback while anchoring the defense at linebacker. Fraenza says having a player with Foster’s experience and versatility back is a major boost.
Up front, sophomore Michael Lee is expected to be a force after an impressive freshman season that included 13 tackles for loss. Kaiser Fraenza is set to take on key responsibilities at running back and defensive back after missing all of last season because of injury. Junior Maxwell McNabb also returns to the backfield after scoring six touchdowns a year ago and will contribute in the secondary on defense.
Waverly will again rely on a small but determined roster, with approximately 15 players expected to suit up this season. The Bulldogs are still adjusting after returning to the 8-Man ranks in 2024 and will be chasing their first winning season since making the transition. Fraenza says the team’s depth will be tested, but he likes the group’s commitment heading into the year.
Waverly opens the 2026 season on September 4 with a road trip to Southeast Cherokee.
