By TOMMY REZAC
St. Joseph Post
There's a contagious energy at Benton football practices right now.
When you partner an energy and a voice like Chris Michaels' with that of new head coach Corey Bertini and the rest of the staff, it becomes palpable.
Bertini has noticed this energy, even as the team goes about their day-to-day business.
"I've really been proud of the way they've stepped up and listened and asked questions," Bertini said. "Whether we're watching film or in meetings, I feel like they've really bought in. We're trying to build that culture of success and that foundation here this first year."
"Guys are really bought in. I thought our summer weights program was exceptional. Great turnout and it's starting to translate to the field."
Bertini was promoted to the head coaching role at Benton back in January. The former Missouri Western quarterback was on staff last season as special teams coordinator. He also coached quarterbacks and receivers, while also serving as the JV coach.
The Cardinals started 3-1 in 2022, but ended on a six-game losing streak to finish 3-7 overall. Benton hasn't been at .500 or better since 2010.
It's always a big task and challenge to turn a program's fortunes around, but Bertini is embracing that opportunity.
"It's a huge honor," he said. "I'm very thankful and blessed. I feel like God has put me in this position to really just impact these young men. It's something I don't take lightly. It's a big blessing and I love every day coming here."
Benton lost a few key players from last year's team like Denver Domann and Bishop Rush, but one key returner is junior and starting quarterback Jaxson Rich.
"Honestly, I'm having lots of fun," Rich said. "I feel like we're flowing a lot better. I'm just excited to be playing football again. I just feel like we're all flowing good so far."
Senior lineman Trenton Harris was a leader in summer weights, according to Bertini. Senior Treigh Nowak brings a healthy amount of playing experience at the receiver and safety position.
Senior Colton Davis will also provide some more size on the line this year after he missed 2022 with an injury.
Rich feels like the offense has enough fire power to be successful as well.
"Gage (Snodgrass) in the backfield and lots of different guys," Rich said. "Our line is blocking pretty good. We have Austin (Zambrano-Saxton) and all the receivers out there. We're going to pretty good. We just have to fix our little mistakes."
Benton opens the season on September 1 at St. Joseph Central. They'll also partake in the city jamboree with Central, Lafayette and Savannah on August 18 at Spratt Stadium.
The Cardinals haven't mustered any more than three wins in a single season since 2016. They haven't had a winning season since 2010 and haven't made a state title game since 1991.
It may take some time for Benton football to become a consistent winner, but Bertini is trying to instill that winning mentality now. Trying to start that journey back to success this season.
"Our motto for the year is 'be the change,'" Bertini said. "So, this group, these juniors and seniors, they want to be that group that when we look at Benton football 10-15 years down the line, this is that 2023 group that started to really change things for the better. I'm really proud of them for that and I'm excited."
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