For Samuel Stierwalt, Fredonia football isn’t just a season—it’s a legacy. “When I leave Fredonia, I want to leave my name along with all the other great players,” the senior lineman said. “When someone talks about Fredonia football, that’s where I want my name to be.” 

That pride fuels his motivation every time he steps on the field. “My main goal for this season is to be an all-league and all-district player,” Stierwalt said. But more than just personal accolades, he’s determined to help the Yellowjackets make noise in their league—and that starts with change. “Something different that our team is doing this year is changing plays and formations based off of certain people’s abilities and skills.” 

At 6-foot, 270 pounds, Stierwalt is a force on both sides of the ball, lining up as a center on offense and a tackle on defense. “No matter what side of the field I’m on, I am always wanting to win,” he said. That competitive fire is matched by preparation and awareness. “When I read the defense, the main thing I’m looking for is strong/weak side, and I always watch the running backs and see if their eyes are giving away any keys of direction.” 

He’s also locked into the bigger picture. “One of our team’s goals this year is to beat our biggest rival, Neodesha,” he said. “We have been preparing by studying them and creating new plays.” 

That focus is made stronger by the group around him. “The biggest strength we have right now is our o-line and d-line, along with some strong senior leaders.” And behind the scenes, there’s a level of care that drives their culture. “Something people may not know about this team is the commitment coaches and players really give. The coaches really do care about the kids, and the kids care about the game.” 

His favorite part of it all? “Being under the Friday night lights, getting to be seen by the town and hearing my name get called in the stadium.” 

And before kickoff? “My go-to hype song has to be ‘Brain Stew’ by Green Day.”