Veteran Core Gives Wyoming Valley West Confidence Entering New Season
Wyoming Valley West enters the 2026 season determined to turn experience into progress.
The Spartans finished 1-10 last fall, but the record does not tell the entire story of a team that gained valuable varsity experience throughout a difficult schedule. Wyoming Valley West competed against several of the strongest programs in District 2, faced multiple playoff teams and gave a large group of younger players important opportunities.
Head coach Brydon Rukstalis now welcomes back an experienced offensive line, a productive quarterback, several athletic skill players and a defense with returning contributors at every level.
The Spartans believe that foundation can help them take a significant step forward.
Wyoming Valley West’s lone victory last season came in a 31-25 win over Hazleton Area. The Spartans also showed offensive potential in games against Williamsport, Pittston Area, Executive Education Academy and Valley View.
The challenge was consistency.
Wyoming Valley West struggled to sustain drives, gave up too many explosive plays and frequently found itself playing from behind. The Spartans allowed at least 45 points in six games, making defensive improvement one of the program’s biggest priorities.
There is reason for optimism.
Quarterback Damien Eastman returns after throwing for 1,603 yards and 12 touchdowns. Malique Campbell is back after rushing for 545 yards and four scores, while Gadgidas Reisinger gives the offense another experienced backfield option.
The offensive line returns Kahmar Smith, Peyton Sninsky, Trevor Ruddy and Ezekiel Hidayah-Hughes. Tanner Ragukas returns at tight end, and the Spartans believe added size and speed at wide receiver can make the offense more explosive.
Defensively, Izreal Davis leads a veteran secondary after recording 80 tackles and two sacks. Brady Kasarda, Bradley Lamoreaux and Alexavier Rivera return along the front, while Amor Sims provides experience at linebacker.
The Spartans lost Chase Meyers, John Richards, William Hebda, Liam Corbett, Preston Sninsky and Sy’dair Johnson, but the returning core gives Wyoming Valley West a stronger starting point than it had a year ago.
The goal is not simply to improve statistically.
The Spartans want to become a more physical, disciplined and competitive football team capable of controlling games rather than constantly responding to opponents.
Eastman Returns to Direct the Offense
Senior Damien Eastman returns after throwing for 1,603 yards and 12 touchdowns last season.
His experience gives Wyoming Valley West stability at the most important position on the field.
The Spartans are installing a new offensive system, but the coaching staff believes Eastman already understands it at a high level.
That familiarity should help the offense play faster and make better adjustments.
Eastman possesses the arm strength to attack every area of the field. He can deliver throws outside the numbers, challenge defenses vertically and take advantage of the size Wyoming Valley West has added at receiver.
His decision-making will be one of the offense’s biggest keys.
The Spartans need Eastman to protect the football, identify pressure and avoid forcing throws when plays break down.
A veteran offensive line and deeper backfield should prevent him from having to carry the offense by himself.
If Eastman remains efficient and takes advantage of the athletes around him, Wyoming Valley West should be capable of producing more consistent offense.
Krobert Adds Quarterback Depth
Connor Krobert also returns at quarterback, giving the Spartans valuable depth at the position.
Having multiple quarterbacks who understand the system allows Wyoming Valley West to prepare for injuries and create competition during camp.
Krobert’s presence may also give the coaching staff flexibility in certain packages.
Even if Eastman remains the primary starter, developing another dependable quarterback is essential over the course of a long season.
The Spartans want the entire quarterback room to understand protections, reads and the tempo of the new offense.
That depth should help the position remain stable throughout the year.
Campbell Gives Backfield Big-Play Ability
Senior Malique Campbell returns after carrying 88 times for 545 yards and four touchdowns.
Campbell averaged more than six yards per attempt, demonstrating his ability to turn limited opportunities into productive gains.
His versatility as an athlete gives the offense several ways to use him.
Campbell can operate as a traditional running back, move into the slot or receive designed touches in space.
The coaching staff believes the backfield’s depth and athleticism can become one of the offense’s greatest strengths.
Campbell should benefit from running behind an experienced line.
If the Spartans consistently create movement at the point of attack, he has the speed and vision to produce explosive plays.
His ability to stretch defenses horizontally and vertically should also help Eastman in the passing game.
Opponents cannot focus entirely on the quarterback when Campbell is capable of changing a game with one touch.
Reisinger Brings Additional Versatility
Gadgidas Reisinger also returns after rushing 35 times for 135 yards and catching six passes for 110 yards.
His receiving production shows that he can contribute beyond traditional carries.
Reisinger gives Wyoming Valley West another option out of the backfield and can create favorable matchups against linebackers.
The Spartans want to use multiple backs and keep players fresh.
Reisinger’s experience should allow him to take on a larger role as a runner, receiver and blocker.
The combination of Campbell and Reisinger gives the offense more flexibility than it had a year ago.
That depth could become especially important late in games when the Spartans want to control possession and wear down defenses.
Veteran Offensive Line Must Set the Tone
Wyoming Valley West expects its offensive line to become the foundation of the team.
Kahmar Smith, Peyton Sninsky, Trevor Ruddy and Ezekiel Hidayah-Hughes all return with varsity experience.
The coaching staff believes the group plays with speed and physicality.
That combination should help the Spartans establish a more dependable running game while also protecting Eastman.
Ruddy brings additional value as a two-way player after recording 43 tackles and two sacks on defense.
The line’s experience should allow Wyoming Valley West to play with better communication and consistency.
The Spartans need the front to recognize pressure, eliminate missed assignments and avoid penalties that place the offense behind schedule.
Depth will also matter.
An experienced starting group can control games, but injuries and fatigue require dependable reserves.
If the offensive line develops the depth expected by the coaching staff, Wyoming Valley West should be able to maintain its physical style throughout the season.
Ragukas Leads Versatile Tight Ends
Senior Tanner Ragukas returns as one of the team’s most important two-way players.
Ragukas recorded 66 tackles on defense and also gives the offense a versatile tight end.
The coaching staff considers the tight end group one of the strengths of the roster.
Wyoming Valley West plans to use its tight ends in multiple roles.
They can line up attached to the formation, move into the slot, serve as lead blockers or create mismatches in the passing game.
Ragukas provides size, physicality and experience.
His ability to block and catch allows the offense to change formations without substituting.
That flexibility can make it difficult for defenses to identify whether the Spartans intend to run or pass.
A productive tight end group should also give Eastman dependable targets over the middle and in the red zone.
Added Size and Speed at Receiver
Wyoming Valley West believes its receiving corps will be more athletic and dangerous in 2026.
The Spartans have added size and speed, giving Eastman more options outside the numbers.
That improvement could help the offense stretch the field and prevent opponents from crowding the line of scrimmage.
The receivers must prove they can consistently create separation and finish plays.
They also need to block on the perimeter to support Campbell and the running game.
If the new receiving options develop quickly, the Spartans should become much harder to defend.
Opponents will have to account for Eastman’s arm, Campbell’s explosiveness, Reisinger’s versatility and the tight ends’ ability to work in multiple areas of the field.
Experience Creates Offensive Optimism
Wyoming Valley West believes it has the experience and playmakers to produce on Friday nights.
The Spartans return a quarterback who understands the system, a veteran offensive line and several athletes capable of creating explosive plays.
The biggest challenge will be consistency.
Wyoming Valley West scored 20 or more points in five games last season but was held to seven or fewer in four others.
The offense must avoid disappearing for long stretches.
Sustaining drives, converting third downs and finishing red-zone opportunities will determine whether the Spartans can turn competitive games into victories.
Ball security will also be essential.
A team trying to improve cannot afford turnovers that give opponents short fields or erase promising drives.
If the Spartans execute efficiently, the offense has the potential to become one of the team’s most improved units.
Defensive Line Features Depth and Athleticism
Wyoming Valley West expects the defensive line to become one of the roster’s strengths.
Senior Brady Kasarda, Bradley Lamoreaux and Alexavier Rivera return with varsity experience.
The coaching staff believes the group has enough depth to rotate multiple players and maintain fresh legs.
That rotation could make a major difference.
The Spartans struggled to stop several powerful offenses last season, particularly late in games when the defense became worn down.
A deeper defensive front should help Wyoming Valley West remain physical for four quarters.
Kasarda and Rivera will be expected to set the edge and pressure quarterbacks.
Lamoreaux’s ability to contribute as a defensive end or linebacker gives the staff additional flexibility.
The line must play with disciplined technique.
Penetration is valuable, but defenders cannot abandon their gaps or allow opponents to create easy running lanes.
If the front consistently controls the line of scrimmage, the entire defense should improve.
Sims Leads Disciplined Linebacking Group
Senior Amor Sims returns at linebacker and will be expected to help lead the middle of the defense.
The coaching staff describes the linebacker group as smart and disciplined.
Those qualities will be essential as Wyoming Valley West attempts to reduce the explosive plays that hurt it last season.
The linebackers must understand their responsibilities, communicate adjustments and finish tackles.
Lamoreaux may also contribute at linebacker, adding athleticism and pass-rushing ability.
The Spartans want the group to play sideline to sideline.
That requires speed, conditioning and strong pursuit angles.
The linebackers cannot become overly aggressive and lose track of cutback lanes or misdirection.
Fundamentally sound football will determine whether the defense can consistently get off the field.
Davis Headlines Experienced Secondary
Senior Izreal Davis returns after recording 80 total tackles and two sacks.
His production makes him one of the defense’s most important returning players.
Davis brings toughness and experience to the secondary.
His tackle total demonstrates his willingness to support the run and make plays in space.
Wyoming Valley West also returns Kaviyon Madera, Jaheir Cooper-Mickens and other experienced defensive backs.
The coaching staff believes the secondary is athletic and competitive.
The group must make more plays on the football while limiting explosive passes.
Strong coverage could allow the defensive front to pressure quarterbacks more aggressively.
The secondary’s communication will also be critical.
The Spartans faced several offenses last season that used formations and motion to create confusion. The returning defensive backs should be better prepared to recognize those concepts and adjust.
Defense Wants to Set the Team’s Tone
Wyoming Valley West believes its defense has the potential to control the tempo of games.
The Spartans have speed, strength and physical playmakers at every level.
The challenge is turning those traits into consistent execution.
Last season, Wyoming Valley West allowed 45 or more points in six games.
That must change.
The defense needs to reduce missed tackles, limit explosive plays and avoid penalties that extend drives.
The coaching staff wants the unit to attack the football and play with confidence, but aggression must remain disciplined.
Every defender must handle his assignment before trying to make an extraordinary play.
If the Spartans remain fundamentally sound, their depth and athleticism should allow them to compete much more effectively.
The defense does not need to create a turnover on every possession.
It needs to force difficult third downs, get off the field and give the offense manageable field position.
Special Teams Emphasize Momentum and Field Position
Wyoming Valley West wants special teams to become a difference-maker.
The Spartans return Emmanuel Josh Dagdag and Xander Jones, along with special teams contributors Neal Bennett, Jesiah Davis and Zyere McCalla.
The program’s goals in the kicking game extend beyond simply avoiding mistakes.
Wyoming Valley West wants to win field position, create points and produce the one or two momentum-changing plays that can decide a close contest.
That could come through a long return, blocked kick, forced turnover or well-placed punt.
The Spartans want their special teams units to maintain the same physical tone expected from the offense and defense.
Discipline will be essential.
Aggressive coverage cannot lead to penalties, and returners must protect the football.
If the special teams units consistently create advantages, they can help Wyoming Valley West turn competitive games in its favor.
Players to Watch
Damien Eastman, Sr., QB: Returning quarterback who passed for 1,603 yards and 12 touchdowns. His command of the new system will be central to the offense’s success.
Malique Campbell, Sr., ATH: Explosive playmaker who rushed for 545 yards and four touchdowns on 88 carries.
Gadgidas Reisinger, RB: Versatile back who contributed as both a runner and receiver last season.
Tanner Ragukas, Sr., TE/LB: Two-way standout who recorded 66 tackles and leads a versatile tight end group.
Trevor Ruddy, OL/DL: Experienced two-way lineman who finished with 43 tackles and two sacks.
Izreal Davis, Sr., DB: Returning defensive leader who recorded 80 tackles and two sacks.
Brady Kasarda, Sr., DE: Experienced defensive end expected to help anchor a deep front.
Bradley Lamoreaux, DE/LB: Versatile defender who gives the coaching staff flexibility along the front seven.
Amor Sims, Sr., LB: Veteran linebacker expected to provide communication and discipline in the middle of the defense.
Kaviyon Madera, DB: Returning defensive back who helps form an athletic and experienced secondary.
My thoughts on Wyoming Valley West
Wyoming Valley West enters the 2026 season with significantly more experience and optimism than its 1-10 record from a year ago might suggest.
The Spartans return a productive quarterback, an athletic backfield and a veteran offensive line.
Eastman’s command of the offense should allow Wyoming Valley West to play faster and attack every area of the field.
Campbell and Reisinger provide versatility in the backfield, while Ragukas leads a tight end group the coaching staff believes can become one of the team’s greatest strengths.
Defensively, the Spartans have returning playmakers at every level.
The line has enough depth to rotate players, the linebackers are expected to play smart and disciplined football, and the secondary features proven tacklers and athletic cover players.
The key will be consistency.
Wyoming Valley West cannot allow explosive plays and defensive breakdowns to place the team in large early deficits.
The Spartans must control the line of scrimmage, protect the football and remain disciplined in all three phases.
Special teams could provide an additional edge by creating field position and momentum-changing plays.
The 2025 season was difficult, but it gave many of the returning players experience that cannot be replicated during practice.
Now the Spartans must turn those lessons into results.
If the offensive line plays to its potential, Eastman distributes the football efficiently and the defense performs with discipline, Wyoming Valley West has the ability to make substantial progress and become a much more competitive team in the Wyoming Valley Conference in 2026.
Head Coach: Brydon Rukstalis
Assistant Coaches:
Jack Baranski- Defensive Coordinator
Paul Patara- Special Teams Coordinator / Assistant Offensive Coordinator
Bill Halenda Jr- Assistant Defensive Coordinator
Pj Cwalina – Defensive Assistant
John Karazia – Offensive Assistant
Kenny McDaniels – Offensive Assistant
Rodney Koch – Defensive Assistant
Matt Yekel – Offensive Assistant
Marques Cooley – Defensive Assistant
Dillan Ryman – Defensive Assistant
Kiandre Moses – Offensive Assistant
Jaylen White – Defensive Assistant
Team Name: Wyoming Valley West Spartans
District: 2
Class: 6A
League: Wyoming Valley Conference, Division 1
2025 Record: 1-10
8/22 Williamsport (6A) 7:00 pm L 20-31
8/29 Scranton (6A) 7:00 pm L 7-45
9/05 @ North Pocono (4A) 7:00 pm L 0-48
9/12 @ Pittston Area* (5A) 7:00 pm L 20-64
9/19 Hazleton Area* (6A) 7:00 pm W 31-25
9/27 @ Executive Education Academy (2A) 7:00 pm L 26-35
10/03 @ Dallas* (4A) 7:00 pm L 13-35
10/11 @ Wilkes-Barre * (6A) 12:00 pm L 0-49
10/17 Valley View (4A) 7:00 pm L 21-52
10/24 Crestwood* (4A) 7:00 pm L 14-49
10/31 @ Abington Heights (5A) 7:00 pm L 7-53 District 2 Class 5A Semifinal
2026 Schedule:
Date Opponent Kickoff
8/22 Riverside (2) (2A) 10:00 am Scrimmage
8/28 Williamsport (6A) 7:00 pm
9/04 @ Dallas (4A) 7:00 pm
9/11 @ West Scranton (6A) 7:00 pm
9/18 Hanover Area (4A) 7:00 pm
9/25 @ Greater Nanticoke (4A) 7:00 pm
10/02 Scranton (6A) 7:00 pm
10/09 @ Wilkes-Barre * (6A) 7:00 pm
10/16 @ Hazleton Area* (6A) 7:00 pm
10/23 @ Pittston Area* (5A) 7:00 pm
10/30 Crestwood (4A) 7:00 pm
Key Starters lost:
Chase Meyers
John Richards
William Hebda
Liam Corbett
Preston Sninsky
Sy’dair Johnson
Offensive Starters Returning:
QB-Damien Eastman
ATH-Malique Campbell
TE-Tanner Ragukas
OL-Kahmar Smith
OL-Peyton Sninsky
OL-Trevor Ruddy
RB- Gadgidas Reisinger
OL- Ezekiel Hidayah- Hughes
QB- Connor Krobert
Defensive Starters Returning:
DE- Brady Kasarda
DB-Izreal Davis
DB-Kaviyon Madera
DE/LB-Bradley Lamoreaux
DB- Jaheir Cooper-Mickens
LB-Amor Sims
DE-Alexavier Rivera
Special Team Starters Returning:
K-Emmanuel Josh Dagdag
K- Xander Jones
ST-Neal Bennett
ST- Jesiah Davis
ST- Zyere Mccalla
Key Newcomers:
OL-Jayden Ford-Spivey
WR/QB-Noah Council
WR/DB -Lucas Flores
DE/TE- Omare Otway Kellom
DE- Carter Morrissey
RB-Colton Kocher
LB-Cairon Rivers
TE/DE-Josiah Sienkiewicz
LB/RB-Josiah Willis
DE-Derek Rosario
K-Nora Keating
WR/DB-Xavier Nunez
WR/DB-Adriel Sepulveda
WR/DB-Tamir Popovich
2026 Returning Player Stats:
Damien Eastman- 1603 Passing Yards , 12 Tds
Malique Campbell- 88 Caries, 545 Yards 4 TDS
Gadgidas Reisinger- 35 Carries,135 Yards/ 6 Catches 110 Yards
Izreal Davis- 80 Total Tackles, 2 Sacks
Tanner Ragukas- 66 Total Tackles
Trevor Ruddy- 43 Total Tackles, 2 Sacks
2026 Outlook:
Offense: Offensively, we’re going to lean on a veteran offensive line that has a lot of experience and does a great job playing with speed and physicality. We have a returning quarterback who understands our new system at a high level and has the ability to make any throw we need him to. We feel really good about the depth and athleticism we have in the backfield, and we’ve added size and speed at wide receiver that should allow us to stretch the field.
Our tight end group is one of the strengths of this team because of its versatility, and we plan to use those guys in a lot of different ways. Overall, we believe we have the experience and playmakers to have success on Friday nights.
Defense: Defensively, we feel like we have the type of group that can set the tone for our football team. We have fast, strong, and physical playmakers at every level who can attack the football and play sideline to sideline. Our defensive line has outstanding depth, allowing us to rotate multiple players and keep fresh legs on the field throughout the game.
Our linebackers are a smart, disciplined group that understands their responsibilities and plays with great effort, while our defensive backs are athletic, competitive, and do a great job making plays on the football. We believe this group has the potential to control the tempo of games, but it will come down to playing disciplined, fundamentally sound football and doing our jobs each snap.
Special Team: On special teams, our focus is to be a difference-maker and create opportunities that can change the outcome of a game. We believe in the importance of winning the field position battle, creating points, and finding ways to make those 1-2 big plays that can shift the game’s momentum.
Our special teams units take great pride in maintaining the physical tone and creating an advantage every time we step on the field. We understand that special teams is a critical part of winning football, and our goal is to play smart, aggressive, and disciplined in all phases.