There’s a new feel around Duncan High football this fall—not just in the playbook, but in the locker room, the trenches, and the mindset.
After finishing 1–7 last season, the Wildkats return a tight group of experienced seniors and a clearer identity under third-year head coach Dan Coats, who’s entering his 17th overall season at Duncan High School. Expectations aren’t just about wins—they’re about work, leadership and measurable growth.
“We are planning on a winning season with several returning starters,” Coats said.
That returning core includes senior quarterback Pablo Ruiz, a two-way player who will also contribute in the defensive backfield. Ruiz brings leadership, experience, and versatility—qualities Coats is counting on under center. He’ll be joined by senior center and defensive end Josh Free, middle linebacker and fullback Ky Coats, wide receiver and defensive back Taygan Jensen, and two-way lineman Lucas Soohy.
With that kind of upperclassman presence in the trenches, Coats is confident in his foundation.
“Our linemen—we have some big, fast boys,” he said.
The coaching staff has returned and also added familiar faces. Chad Penery and Greg Galvin—both alumni of Duncan High—join the program this year to coach the offensive line and defensive backs, respectively. Their return gives the program a deeper connection to its roots while helping shape a new future and Joey Bejarano returns as defensive coordinator.
The Wildkats also expect production from a couple of rising underclassmen. Sophomore Mark Bejarano, a promising athlete, will line up at both quarterback and halfback. Dayton Penery, another sophomore, is expected to play both tight end and defensive back.
While Duncan’s strength lies up front, the team knows what it must improve to be competitive week in and week out.
“We struggle at covering the passing game at times and finishing blocks,” Coats admitted.
Still, the tone inside the program has shifted. There’s a sense of accountability. Players are pushing each other. Leadership is coming from the right places.
“We have a lot of leaders that pull each other up and set a positive tone overall,” Coats said.
The season opens at home on Aug. 22 against Lordsburg. The following week, the Wildkats begin region play against Fort Thomas. Road tests at Valley Union, St. David, San Manuel and Mayer will offer challenges throughout the fall, but Duncan isn’t zeroing in on rivalries or revenge games. The mission is broader.
“We really just want to progress on the field as individuals and as a team as a whole,” Coats said. “Any improvement against any of the teams we face—because they all have great strengths—counts as a win for the Wildkats.”
As for what fans can expect on Friday nights this season, Coats didn’t hesitate.
“Get ready to see a great group of young men play their hardest with pride and represent our small town,” he said.
