VAN WERT — After a disappointing 4-6 campaign in 2024 — their first losing season since 2016 — the Van Wert Cougars are ready to hit the reset button.

Under 14th-year head coach Keith Recker, the Cougars return 16 starters in 2025, despite graduating 13 seniors. That balance of returning experience and fresh talent gives the program hope for a turnaround year.

One of the most intriguing developments is at quarterback, where 6-foot-7 sophomore Zach Crummey takes over as the new signal-caller.

If Van Wert is going to make noise in the Western Buckeye League, it’ll likely come during a pivotal midseason stretch against Defiance, Wapakoneta, and St. Marys — the three teams that topped the standings last fall.

After missing the playoffs for the first time since 2019, the Cougars are focused on clawing their way back into contention.

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