MANNFORD PIRATES
Coach: Kenny Gooch
6-4
Mannford enters the 2026 season looking to build on last year’s 6-4 record while navigating a younger roster under third-year head coach Kenny Gooch. The Pirates lost significant production but return several key contributors who played major roles in that success. While inexperience will be a factor in certain areas, Gooch and his staff are focused on development as younger players step into expanded roles. The goal remains to build off last season and continue pushing the program forward with an emphasis on toughness and consistency in a challenging district.
Offensively, Mannford returns six starters and will once again rely on its physical Wing T scheme. The system uses misdirection to distribute touches among multiple backs and create opportunities in space, while play-action opens the door for big plays downfield. Senior running back and VYPE Top 100 nominee JJ Hindsman (6-0, 200) returns after a 1,000-yard, 10-touchdown season, while junior Luke Naylor (5-8, 175) adds another 1,000 yards and 12 scores. Junior quarterback Kayden Leslie (6-3, 180) will lead the offense behind an experienced offensive line anchored by senior Ayden Passmore (6-1, 245) and juniors Cooper Boyer (5-11, 230) and Lyndon Hamilton (6-0, 210). Hindsman, who missed his sophomore season due to injury, is still developing his full potential and could be the centerpiece of an offense that rushed for over 3,000 yards last year.
Defensively, Mannford returns five starters and will operate out of a 3-4 scheme built on speed and pressure. Defensive coordinator Jason Landrum is tasked with putting players in position to succeed, using aggressive looks to disrupt opposing offenses. Hindsman anchors the defense at linebacker after recording 70 tackles, four sacks, and multiple takeaways last season. Naylor contributes in the secondary, while juniors Zane Upton (6-1, 215) and Ryder Tidwell (6-0, 200) add size and experience at linebacker. Senior Steven Condit (6-2, 240) leads the defensive line, and Leslie provides athleticism at defensive back. Sophomore Cameron Bougher is a name to watch after seeing varsity time as a freshman, with coaches expecting him to make an impact on both sides of the ball.
9-4 – vs. Catoosa
9-11 – at Cleveland
9-18 – vs. Bristow
9-25 – at Poteau
10-2 – vs. Sallisaw
10-9 – at Hilldale
10-15 – vs. McClain
10-23 – at Ada
10-30 – vs. Stilwell
11-6 – at Broken Bow
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