Princeton

TAPPS Division IV - District 2 Central Texas Christian School-Temple @CTCSAthletics Head Coach: Leif Johnston @Leifj4 📝 2025 Outlook Now in his 10th season, Coach Johnston leads a Central Texas Christian squad that returns 17 total starters from a 10–2 season. The Lions boast one of TAPPS Division IV’s most battle-tested rosters, featuring all-state talents like TE/LB Ike Klimchuk @ikeklimchuk24 and RB Austin Evans @CTCSLions2026, and third-year starting QB Cooper Smith @Cooper_Smith07. Klimchuk, a two-way star, has anchored the defense for two seasons with over 150 tackles in 2024 alone. With home-field energy and a physical identity, CTCS is a legitimate contender to unseat Brazos Christian for the 2025 district crown and make a run for the State Championship🏆 🔥 Things to Like 🔹 Two-way terrors: The 6'2", 215-lb senior linebacker and tight end is one of TAPPS' most feared defenders. A First Team All-State selection, Klimchuk posted 154 tackles and 9 TD receptions in 2024 and will again be the emotional and physical centerpiece of this Lions team. Rhett Humphrey is also a standout two-way player and multi-year starter who sets the tone on both sides of the ball. 🔹 All-State firepower in the backfield: Senior RB Austin Evans returns after an explosive junior year that earned him First Team All-State honors with 1300+ yards rushing and 19 TDs. With a 4.6 laser-timed 40, Evans brings big-play capability every time he touches the ball. Versatile athlete Princeton Schneider @Prince_sch80 adds another dynamic weapon to the offense with his ability to contribute from multiple positions. 🔹Strength in the trenches: Tackle Luke Baird and powerful guard Liam Ralston give the Eagles a strong foundation on the offensive line, bringing size and experience to anchor the unit. Transfer Rowdy Dolgener is expected to step in and contribute immediately. On the defensive side, senior lineman Jacob Manning @JacobManning27 is a difference-maker—disruptive in the backfield and capable of commanding double teams. 👀 Things to Watch 🔹 Veteran presence at QB: Having a 3-year starter at QB for any program is a BIG deal, and starter Cooper Smith is a major asset for CTCS. His experience gives the Cougars stability and leadership at the most important position. If Smith can take the next step by unlocking more explosive plays downfield, it could transform the offense into one of the district’s most dangerous units. 🔹 Handling pressure against top teams: Despite their strong 2024 campaign, the Lions’ 2 losses were to division leader Brazos Christion 29-12 and their postseason ended in a 54–21 first-round playoff loss to First Baptist. Getting over this hurdle will be Coach Johnston biggest challenge. 📱Player Accounts on X Cooper Smith @Cooper_Smith07, 2026, QB Austin Evans @CTCSLions2026, 2026, RB Ike Klimchuk @ikeklimchuk24, 2026, LB- TE Jacob Manning @JacobManning27, 2027, DT Princeton Schneider @Prince_sch80, 2027, RB/WR #txhsfb #TAPPSFootball @TXPSMedia @TXPrivateFBGuy @LoneStarPrepsTX