NEWKIRK TIGERS
Coach: MIKE KIRTLEY
3-7
There is a sense of momentum building at Newkirk as the Tigers prepare for the 2026 season. In year two under head coach Mike Kirtley, the program returns a wealth of experience up front and in the secondary, plus a starting quarterback and multiple receivers. Factor in an incoming group of talented freshmen and a move into a new district, and Newkirk is embracing the challenges and excitement ahead.
Offensively, Newkirk will benefit from returning its quarterback and the entire offensive line, giving the Tigers continuity at the two most critical areas of the unit. With two receivers and several backs also back in the mix, Newkirk can build the playbook around players who already understand the system and its expectations. Kirtley believes that chemistry and communication up front will allow the Tigers to be more efficient, whether they are pounding the ball on the ground or spreading it around through the air.
Defensively, Newkirk brings back its entire defensive line and the bulk of its secondary, providing a foundation of toughness and experience. With nine defensive starters returning, the Tigers should be further along in their understanding of alignments, assignments and adjustments heading into district play. The group’s familiarity with one another should help Newkirk tackle better in space, communicate checks and create more negative plays against opposing offenses.
