HUMBOLDT — After graduating 11 players from their 2024 roster, the Humboldt High Cubs are taking each practice in stages as new faces dot the starting lineup.
With multiple new starters set to play key roles in 2025, Humboldt coach Logan Wyrick is eager to debut his team to the Cub Nation next Friday while hosting their jamboree.
“We’re having some growing pains,” Wyrick said. “We have a handful of guys who were all-league and all-district who are back, and we have some young guys who we knew would step into bigger roles.”
Mason Sterling will step behind center as the starter in 2025. Replacing star quarterback Blake Ellis won’t be easy, but Sterling believes he has what it takes to guide the Cubs’ offense.
“Last year, Blake did a great job and showed the way. I got a lot of reps at practice not a lot of people saw,” Sterling said. “During game time, I got in and got some reps, too. I like it. It’s great to be a leader. It’s been a little different. There are new guys every year, so we have to build your chemistry every year.”
Sterling sat out Thursday practice with an injury, leaving backup Ty Shaughnessy under center. While scrimmaging against the second-team defense, Shaughnessy held his own. His success came in part from an offensive line larger than some would expect from a 2A program. Spearheading the line is Mark McCullough, a three-year starter and also a recipient of multiple postseason accolades.
“I’m on both sides of the field. The big boys, getting back in shape is the worst part,” McCullough said. “The summer never treats you right with all the food you eat. The heat is a lot worse than playing in the cold. After playing in the cold a little bit, you’re fine. The heat never stops.”
While Iola hosted its Blue and Gold Scrimmage Friday, Humboldt waits to make its debut until next Friday. Even with a host of new starters, Wyrick said the Humboldt Cubs maintain the traditions and philosophy that has made them a dominating force in the Tri-Valley League for the last decade.
“It’s a culture. That’s a term I don’t love, but that’s what it is,” Wyrick said. “I tell them I love them and I mean it. We build from that. They spend time together. I don’t make them. They like being around each other. It goes a long way on Friday nights.”
