Strong Opener to Varsity Football Season

By Sam K. 

The 2023 Roland-Story football team had its opening game in Tama on Friday, August 25, playing the South Tama Trojans. The Norsemen are now into their fourth season under head coach Matt Finn. The expectations are set high for this season, with hopes to have a winning record for the first time under Coach Finn. 

The Norse had a strong showing, beating the Trojans 40-0. Some notable stats from the game were senior runningback Hesston Johnson’s 159 rushing yards on 15 carries tallying 3 touchdowns. Junior quarterback Sam Knoll was 10/15 with 181 yards and 1 touchdown. Senior Jonovan Wilkinson also added 1 touchdown for the Norse with 4 receptions for 98 yards. 

Defensively sophomore Cody Long led the team in tackles with 7 and picked up a fumble. Charlie Watts and Hesston Johnson each added 6 a piece. The Norsemen forced 6 punts from the Trojans and held them to only 72 rushing yards and 21 passing yards. 

“I think we played really well and really hard. It was a super fun game and a great way to start off the year. I’m excited for what’s left to come,” said senior runningback Hesston Johnson. Overall, the Norsemen are looking to step forward this season and keep improving.

Location: Tama, IA, USA

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