Schuylkill Haven Reloads With Championship Aspirations After Another Dominant Season
Few programs in Pennsylvania have established the consistency that Schuylkill Haven has over the past decade.
The Hurricanes once again proved they are among District 11’s elite in 2025, finishing 12-2, rolling through the Schuylkill League Division 2 schedule and advancing to the District 11 Class 2A championship game before falling to Williams Valley in a thrilling 34-31 contest.
Head coach Mike Farr now welcomes back a veteran core that experienced both the highs of another deep postseason run and the disappointment of falling one victory short of another district championship.
That combination should provide plenty of motivation entering 2026.
Schuylkill Haven averaged more than 53 points per game last season, posting dominant victories over Panther Valley, Shenandoah Valley, Mahanoy Area, Pine Grove Area, Nativity BVM, Tri-Valley, Catasauqua and Northern Lehigh. The Hurricanes overwhelmed opponents with a punishing rushing attack, physical defense and disciplined special teams.
Now, despite graduating several contributors, Schuylkill Haven returns one of the area’s premier players, an experienced offensive line and a defense loaded with proven production.
The expectations remain the same.
Compete for a Schuylkill League championship.
Compete for a District 11 Class 2A title.
Reber Returns as One of Pennsylvania’s Elite Playmakers
Everything begins with senior Colton Reber.
Few players in Pennsylvania were more productive last season.
Reber rushed 197 times for an astounding 2,875 yards and 38 touchdowns while averaging well over 14 yards per carry. He also caught 14 passes for 364 yards and seven more touchdowns, accounting for 45 total scores.
His impact didn’t stop there.
Defensively, Reber recorded 75 tackles, nine tackles for loss and three interceptions, making him one of the state’s premier two-way players.
His combination of speed, vision, strength and football instincts makes him a threat to score every time he touches the football.
Defenses know stopping Reber is the first priority.
Very few have been able to accomplish it.
Schuylkill Haven will continue building its offense around its explosive senior running back, whose production and leadership make him one of the favorites to earn postseason honors once again.
Diehl Ready to Expand the Offense
Junior quarterback Bradyn Diehl returns after gaining valuable varsity experience.
Diehl also contributed defensively, recording 60 tackles and two tackles for loss.
Now entering another season in the offense, he should play with increased confidence and command.
While the Hurricanes have traditionally relied on a dominant rushing attack, Diehl gives the offense another dimension.
His continued development should allow Schuylkill Haven to become even more balanced.
When defenses commit extra defenders to slowing Reber, Diehl has the ability to make them pay through the air or with timely decisions in the running game.
His growth will be one of the biggest reasons the Hurricanes remain dangerous against quality opponents.
Veteran Offensive Line Sets the Tone
Championship football begins in the trenches, and Schuylkill Haven returns one of the most experienced offensive lines in District 11.
Senior Triston Davis, senior Brody Brand, senior Bryce Reber and junior Ayden Flannery all return after gaining valuable experience during last year’s championship run.
That group has already proven it can dominate the line of scrimmage against quality competition.
Their chemistry, communication and physical style perfectly fit the identity of the Hurricanes.
The offensive line opens running lanes for Reber, protects Diehl and establishes the physical tone that Schuylkill Haven wants every Friday night.
With another offseason together in the weight room, this unit has the potential to become one of the best in the region.
Depth at Running Back Strengthens Offense
Although Reber remains the featured back, Schuylkill Haven also returns outstanding depth behind him.
Junior Logan Goad averaged nearly 13 yards per carry while rushing 33 times for 419 yards and five touchdowns.
Junior Chase Yoder added 270 rushing yards on just 38 carries.
Both players have already shown they can produce when given opportunities.
Their development allows the coaching staff to keep Reber fresh throughout the season while maintaining the same physical rushing identity.
Having multiple capable backs also gives the Hurricanes flexibility in different offensive packages and helps prepare them for the demands of another deep postseason run.
Leibensperger Gives Offense Versatility
Senior Chase Leibensperger returns at tight end and provides another important piece of the offense.
His ability to block in the running game while also contributing as a receiver creates matchup problems for opposing defenses.
Leibensperger’s versatility allows Schuylkill Haven to maintain its physical approach without sacrificing flexibility.
He is exactly the type of player who often makes the critical block or timely catch that changes the momentum of a game.
Defense Returns Championship Experience
The defense returns nearly its entire core from last season.
That experience should make the unit one of the strongest in District 11 Class 2A.
Leading the way is Davis, who recorded an outstanding 87 tackles and 15 tackles for loss.
Leibensperger added 72 tackles and eight tackles for loss, giving the Hurricanes two experienced linebackers capable of controlling games.
Reber, Diehl, Brand, Bryce Reber, Flannery, Goad and Yoder all return after gaining valuable varsity experience.
Few teams can match the number of experienced defenders returning for 2026.
That continuity should allow the Hurricanes to play aggressively from the opening week.
Davis Headlines Physical Front Seven
Davis has developed into one of the premier linebackers in District 11.
His ability to diagnose plays quickly, attack downhill and consistently finish tackles makes him the leader of the defense.
He is complemented by Leibensperger, whose athleticism and instincts give Schuylkill Haven another proven playmaker at linebacker.
Up front, Brand, Bryce Reber and Flannery provide experience along the defensive line.
Together, they give the Hurricanes the size and physicality needed to control the line of scrimmage.
That combination should once again allow Schuylkill Haven to shut down opposing rushing attacks and force offenses into difficult situations.
Experienced Secondary Creates Big Plays
Reber, Diehl and Goad headline a veteran secondary that already understands the speed of varsity football.
Reber’s three interceptions last season highlight his ability to create turnovers, while Diehl’s toughness and football intelligence make him another dependable defender.
The Hurricanes consistently emphasize pursuit, discipline and tackling.
With so many returning starters, communication should be another strength.
The ability to eliminate explosive plays and force turnovers could once again make this defense one of the area’s best.
Special Teams Continue to Be a Weapon
Senior Grayson Fessler returns after another outstanding season as the team’s kicker.
He converted 52 of 59 extra points and connected on two of three field goals, including a long of 29 yards.
His consistency gives Schuylkill Haven confidence in close games.
Reber also returns as the team’s punter, giving the Hurricanes experience in another critical phase.
Reliable special teams often become the difference in postseason football, and Schuylkill Haven once again appears well positioned in that area.
Weight Room Continues to Drive Success
The coaching staff believes the offseason has once again laid the foundation for success.
“We have a good mix of experience and incoming players, and our coaching staff is excited for 2026 and the future,” Farr said. “We continued to get stronger in the weight room, which is a key to our success. We need to get better every rep.”
That philosophy has become a trademark of the program.
Continuous improvement.
Physical development.
Attention to detail.
Those qualities have helped Schuylkill Haven remain one of District 11’s premier programs.
Players to Watch
Colton Reber, Sr., RB/DB/P: One of Pennsylvania’s elite two-way players after rushing for 2,875 yards and 38 touchdowns while adding 75 tackles and three interceptions.
Triston Davis, Sr., OL/LB: Defensive leader who recorded 87 tackles and 15 tackles for loss.
Chase Leibensperger, Sr., TE/LB: Versatile two-way standout with 72 tackles, eight tackles for loss and a key role on offense.
Bradyn Diehl, Jr., QB/DB: Returning quarterback and defensive contributor expected to take another major step forward.
Logan Goad, Jr., RB/DB: Explosive runner who averaged nearly 13 yards per carry and scored five touchdowns.
Chase Yoder, Jr., RB/LB: Tough two-way player who rushed for 270 yards while contributing on defense.
Brody Brand, Sr., OL/DL: Veteran lineman expected to anchor both fronts.
Bryce Reber, Sr., OL/DL: Experienced two-way starter who provides leadership and physicality.
Ayden Flannery, Jr., OL/DL: Returning lineman expected to play an increasingly important role.
Grayson Fessler, Sr., K: Reliable kicker who converted 52 extra points and added two field goals.
My thoughts on Schuylkill Haven
Schuylkill Haven enters 2026 with every reason to believe another championship run is possible.
The Hurricanes return one of the state’s most explosive players in Reber, an experienced quarterback, multiple productive running backs, nearly their entire offensive line and a defense loaded with proven production.
Perhaps just as importantly, they return a roster that understands what it takes to reach a district championship game.
The loss to Williams Valley has provided additional motivation throughout the offseason.
If the offensive line continues controlling the line of scrimmage, Diehl expands the passing game and the experienced defense performs to its potential, Schuylkill Haven should once again be among the favorites to capture the Schuylkill League Division 2 title and compete for the District 11 Class 2A championship.
The Hurricanes have built one of the premier programs in eastern Pennsylvania.
Everything about this roster suggests they have the talent, leadership and experience to make another memorable postseason run.
Head Coach: Mike Farr
Assistant Coaches:
Barron Line
Tyler Dean
John Carestia Jr
Bill Tidmore
Evan Fink
Andrew Fink
Anthony Kelly
Justin Poletti
Jr High Coaching Staff
Brad Wildermuth Head Coach
Mitch Tracey
Justin Shappell
Adam Jamison
Team Name: Schuylkill Haven Hurricanes
District: 11
Class: 2A
League: Schuylkill League – Division 2
2026 Schedule:
8/22 Lakeland (2A) 10:00 am Scrimmage
8/28 @ Mount Carmel Area (3A) 7:00 pm
9/04 @ Tamaqua Area (3A) 7:00 pm
9/11 Blue Mountain (4A) 7:00 pm
9/18 @ Mahanoy Area* (2A) 7:00 pm
9/25 @ Nativity BVM* (1A) 7:00 pm
10/02 Williams Valley (1A) 7:00 pm
10/08 @ Shenandoah Valley* (2A) 7:00 pm
10/16 Tri-Valley* (1A) 7:00 pm
10/23 @ Minersville Area* (2A) 7:00 pm
10/30 Marian Catholic* (1A) 7:00 pm
2025 Record: 12-2
8/22 @ Blue Mountain (4A) 7:00 pm W 34-27
8/29 @ Panther Valley* (3A) 7:00 pm W 54-0
9/05 @ Shenandoah Valley* (2A) 7:00 pm W 54-6
9/12 Mahanoy Area* (2A) 7:00 pm W 69-0
9/18 Minersville Area* (2A) 7:00 pm W 48-38
9/26 @ Williams Valley* (2A) 7:00 pm W 43-29
10/03 Marian Catholic* (1A) 7:00 pm W 55-14
10/10 Pine Grove Area* (3A) 7:00 pm W 72-0
10/17 @ Nativity BVM* (1A) 7:00 pm W 57-0
10/24 Tri-Valley* (1A) 7:00 pm W 55-20
11/01 Catasauqua (2A) 6:00 pm W 62-14 Dist. 11 Class 2A Quarterfinal
11/08 Northern Lehigh (2A) 6:00 pm W 60-7 Dist. 11 Class 2A Semifinal
11/14 Williams Valley (2A) 7:00 pm L 31-34 Dist. 11 Class 2A Championship @ Blue Mountain HS
2026 Schedule:
Date Opponent Kickoff
8/22 Lakeland (2A) 10:00 am Scrimmage
8/28 @ Mount Carmel Area (3A) 7:00 pm
9/04 @ Tamaqua Area (3A) 7:00 pm
9/11 Blue Mountain (4A) 7:00 pm
9/18 @ Mahanoy Area* (2A) 7:00 pm
9/25 @ Nativity BVM* (1A) 7:00 pm
10/02 Williams Valley* (1A) 7:00 pm
10/08 @ Shenandoah Valley* (2A) 7:00 pm
10/16 Tri-Valley* (1A) 7:00 pm
10/23 @ Minersville Area* (2A) 7:00 pm
10/30 Marian Catholic* (1A) 7:00 pm
Offensive Starters Returning:
Colton Reber, 12, RB/DB
Triston Davis, 12 OL/LB
Chase Leibensperger, 12, TE/LB
Brody Brand 12, OL/DL
Bryce Reber,12, OL/DL
Bradyn Diehl, 11, QB/DB
Logan Goad, 11, RB/DB
Ayden Flannery, 11, OL/DL
Chase Yoder, 11, RB/LB
Defensive Starters Returning:
Colton Reber, 12, RB/DB
Triston Davis, 12 OL/LB
Chase Leibensperger, 12, TE/LB
Brody Brand 12, OL/DL
Bryce Reber,12, OL/DL
Bradyn Diehl, 11, QB/DB
Logan Goad, 11, RB/DB
Ayden Flannery, 11, OL/DL
Chase Yoder, 11, RB/LB
Grayson Fessler, 12, K
Special Team Starters Returning:
Grayson Fessler, 12, K
Colton Reber, 12, P
Key Newcomers:
Offense:
Joel Adams, 11, RB/LB
Louis Muriel, 11, WR/DB
Luca Wessner, 11, OL/DL
Juan Torres, 11, OL/DL
Wyatt Gerber, 10, RB/DB
Bode Hinnershitz, 10, QB/DB
Brayden Shappell, 10, RB/LB
Brody Walchak, 10, RB/DB
Javen Lopez, 11, RB/DB
Noah Runkle, 9, WR/LB
Michael Osatchuck, 9, RB/DB
Xavier Pomales, 9, RB/DB
Defense:
Joel Adams, 11, RB/LB
Louis Muriel, 11, WR/DB
Luca Wessner, 11, OL/DL
Juan Torres, 11, OL/DL
Wyatt Gerber, 10, RB/DB
Bode Hinnershitz, 10, QB/DB
Brayden Shappell, 10, RB/LB
Brody Walchak, 10, RB/DB
Javen Lopez, 11, RB/DB
Noah Runkle, 9, WR/LB
Michael Osatchuck, 9, RB/DB
Xavier Pomales, 9, RB/DB
2026 Returning Player Stats:
Colton Reber
197 carries for 2,875 yards and 38 TDs
14 catches for 364 yards and 7 TDs
75 total tackles, 9 TFL, 3 INTs
Triston Davis
87 total tackles, 15 TFL
Chase Leibensperger
72 total tackles, 8 TFL
Bryce Reber
21 total tackles, 2 TFL
Bradyn Diehl
60 total tackles, 2 TFL
Logan Goad
33 carries for 419 yards and 5 TDs
Ayden Flannery, 11, OL/DL
Chase Yoder
38 carries for 270 yards
Grayson Fessler
52 of 59 PAT, 2 of 3 field goals, 29 long
2026 Outlook: With a good mix of experience and incoming players our coaching staff is excited for 2026 and the future. We continued to get stronger in the weight room which is a key to our success. We need to get better every rep.