A fresh voice. A fresh culture. A fresh opportunity.
That’s the mindset surrounding the Lutheran West Football team as Daniel Shifley begins his first season at the helm, inheriting a program determined to turn the page after an 0-10 campaign in 2025.
While the record from a year ago leaves plenty of room for improvement, Shifley believes the foundation being built this offseason extends far beyond wins and losses. The emphasis has centered on accountability, growth and developing a team-first culture—one he believes will eventually translate into success on Friday nights.
“We have a great group of Christian young men eager to grow, learn and improve,” Shifley said.
With four returning starters on offense and five on defense, the Longhorns have enough experience to establish that new identity while laying the groundwork for the future.
New Leadership, New Direction
Taking over any rebuilding program comes with challenges, but Shifley has embraced the opportunity to reshape Lutheran West from the inside out.
The Longhorns will utilize multiple offensive and defensive schemes, giving the coaching staff flexibility as players continue developing into their roles.
Instead of focusing solely on immediate results, the first-year coach has concentrated on building habits that can sustain long-term success.
That process begins with leadership from a veteran core that has experienced adversity and is eager to change the program’s trajectory.
Veteran Core Leads the Way
Several experienced players return to provide stability on both sides of the football.
Max Jenkins headlines the group as a two-way contributor at linebacker and fullback, bringing physicality and leadership to the heart of the team. At quarterback, Jayden Taylor returns with valuable experience and will direct the Longhorn offense while continuing to grow within the new system.
Josh Coats gives Lutheran West versatility as both a wide receiver and free safety, while Kenny Lini anchors the trenches on both the offensive and defensive lines. Defensive lineman Devin Talton rounds out the veteran nucleus expected to set the tone for the Longhorns throughout the season.
Their leadership will be especially important as younger players continue to gain experience.
New Faces Ready to Contribute
Lutheran West also expects several newcomers to make an immediate impact.
Robert Gundich is expected to strengthen the offensive line, while Shaun Jones adds athleticism to the secondary. Receiver Brady Dischinger gives the offense another weapon as the coaching staff continues evaluating personnel throughout preseason camp.
Developing depth will be a key priority, and contributions from those newcomers could play a significant role in the Longhorns’ progress this fall.
Turning Progress Into Results
Perhaps the biggest challenge facing Lutheran West is converting an encouraging offseason into victories once the regular season begins.
“Can we build on a great offseason and translate it to success in the regular season?” Shifley said.
That question will likely define the Longhorns’ season.
Still, the coaching staff believes the effort displayed throughout the offseason has already created momentum inside the program.
“I’m very proud of the hard work this team has put in during the offseason, and I’m excited for everyone to see who we have become,” Shifley said.
Building for the Future
Asked what will determine whether 2026 is a successful season, Shifley’s answer was refreshingly simple.
“The players.”
That response reflects the philosophy guiding Lutheran West’s rebuild.
Wins remain the ultimate goal, but developing young men, strengthening the program’s culture and establishing consistent habits are equally important milestones for a team beginning a new chapter.
If the Longhorns continue building on the foundation established throughout the offseason, 2026 could become the first step toward returning Lutheran West to consistent competitiveness.
