The Highland Prep Badgers kicked off last season on a high note, racing to a 4-0 start in the regular season. However, momentum faded down the stretch, and they finished with a 5-5 record, narrowly missing the playoffs. Last month, Highland Prep hired Mykhael Sanford as the new head coach, bringing fresh energy and leadership to the program.
Despite last year’s disappointment, Sanford believes the team will bounce back and compete for a postseason spot. Sanford’s confidence comes from the progress he’s seen in his players during the offseason.
(highland prep\ via frizzonpluto)
“I honestly think we have a chance to do something special—something this school has never seen. I think we can make it to a Final Four,” Sanford said.
Senior strong safety and running back Macen Thompson has set clear goals for himself and the team. He is aiming for at least a 7-3 record in the regular season and a run to the 2A Conference State Championship.
“My expectations for myself are fairly simple—ball out and lead the team to a minimum 7-3 regular season record and 11-3 in the postseason. I expect a winning record and a winning mentality from my team, especially with our coaching staff,” Thompson said.
Senior guard Colter Evans plans to give full effort every game and avoid complacency. He wants the Badgers to play like a family, trusting one another on and off the field.
Evans has focused on strength training and improving his speed to protect the quarterback better and open running lanes. Beyond football, he hopes to be remembered for his character.
“As a senior, the legacy I hope to leave is just being a great person—nice, helpful, and trustworthy—so people can come to me for support if they need help or if they are going through a hard time,” Evans said.
Wide receiver and free safety Isaack Villa, who recorded 351 receiving yards on 22 catches with four touchdowns last season, also returns for his senior year. He wants to grow both as an athlete and as a person off the field.
“For myself, I want to succeed both as a football player and as a man in the outside world. For the team, I want us to excel both as a family and as a program, to show the future of Highland Prep that anything is possible, no matter the level,” Villa said.
(Isaac Villa/photo credit: md9flicks)
Villa grew up admiring NFL legend Ray Lewis, drawing inspiration from his perseverance through hardship.
“My favorite player is Ray Lewis because, despite the bad childhood and life he grew up with, he always showed up for his people, was a man of God, and tried his best for both himself and everyone around him,” Villa said.
Sanford hopes the Badgers will soon be recognized as a football force in Surprise, Arizona.
“We will be the new face of Surprise. When you think of Surprise, Arizona, Highland Prep will be the first school you think of,” Sanford said.
The Badgers will open their season on the road against Madison Highland Prep on August 22 at 7 p.m., looking to start strong once again—but this time, finish stronger.
