Many programs would love to have what the Bluejays have going.
For Mancos, though, there’s still plenty of unfinished business.
After playing in the eight-man state title game in 2021, then following it up with a semifinal appearance in 2022, the Bluejays know that the sky’s the limit for the program heading into the upcoming fall.
Mancos collected their fourth nine-plus victory season in a row, accounting for each of the past full season slates dating back to 2018 – head coach Josh Gardner’s first year at the controls for the Bluejay program.
During the hot summer months, the Bluejays know that their preparation is for getting prepared for the big games this fall.
“We had a huge turnout in the weight room this summer,” said Gardner of his team’s ambition heading into the season. “Our defensive coordinator Jarrod Wyatt has taken our strength program to the next level.”
While the Jays were hit by graduation like many of the other area programs, Gardner is optimistic about the up-and-coming leaders.
“Our seniors are really talented – they’ve got a ton of experience,” added Gardner of the Class of 2024 leaders on the team. Among them, Kail Wayman – a four-year starter – who will shift from running back to quarterback for the Bluejays this year.
Wayman ran for more than 1,000 yards last year, and looks to offer a dual threat at the position. “Kail is very dynamic,” said Gardner, “and we like how elusive and agile he is.”
Wayman and a number of talented running backs, including 2022 breakout rusher Levi Martin, will look to find space behind the blocking of an experienced front line. Sophomore Colten Vannest fills in at center, while classmate Adam Martinez looks to continue to build off a strong freshman season.
“Our lines take a lot of pride in their technique,” said Gardner of his offensive and defensive fronts, “and the kids have a lot of wisdom about how to work together as a unit.”
Senior Elliot Sam anchors the defensive line for the Bluejays, joining an athletic secondary led by classmate Andrew Jaime, who finished second on the team in tackles a year ago.
“Our defense has a ton of experience, and I hope we build on that and get better,” added Gardner.
Mancos opens the season on Friday, Aug. 25 with a home game against Melrose (New Mexico) at 4 p.m. on a neutral field in Chama, New Mexico.
The following weekend, the Bluejays take on Monticello on the road, before facing back-to-back neutral site contests against northeast Colorado powers Merino (Sept. 9) and Haxtun (Sept. 16).
A showdown against Dove Creek awaits on the first Friday in October, as the Bluejays and Bulldogs renew a fantastic back-and-forth rivalry that will likely go a long way in deciding a league champion. Consecutive home games against Dolores and Sanford cap the regular season before postseason play begins in early November.
“We’re hungry to have a really good season,” said Gardner, “but we know that we need to focus on one day at a time – which starts from taking care of each individual assignment – and if we take care of what we need to, we’ll get where we want to be.”
This article was republished on Aug. 16 to correct the locations of the game on Aug. 25.
