Valley Sports ReportWAVERLY — Waverly football coach Jason Miller took the rare step Monday of naming captains for the 2026 season, which kicks off in 54 days.
Miller tabbed seniors Ben Shaw, Matthias Welles, Carson Rockwell, and Chase Wheeler as this season's captains.
Welles has been a starter since 8th-grade, while Shaw and Rockwell have started since their freshman season, and Wheeler worked his way into the starting line-up last year.
"I can't remember if I've ever named captains," said Miller.
"I felt like this year, three of these guys been starters for four or even five years, so, they've worked hard, and I think they're the kind of people that can be leaders.
"When you name captains, you expect a lot out of them," noted Miller. "I think they'll be accountable, good communicators, and have demonstrated throughout the summer and throughout the years they're capable of being leaders, and filling that role.
"Typically, the quarterback is usually a captain ... it's been more of a ceremonial thing, but this year we're gonna try something different.
"I'm proud that those four would be, if not the first, the first in a very long time to be officially named captains," said Miller. "I'm looking for more accountability, and communication between the team and the coaching staff.
"I think they're for the right kids to do it," added Miller. "I'm sure they'll represent."
Welles, Shaw and Rockwell have multiple all-state honors to their credit, and Miller has been impressed with Wheeler's work ethic.
"Ben, Matthias, and Carson have proven it on the field for four or five years," said Miller. "Chase (Wheeler) had a good year last year, and had had an outstanding off season.
"He has improved mentally, and in his work ethic, the weight room, on the field, and at camps throughout the summer," note Miller. "He's really improved as a player."
Waverly opens the season Sept. 5 at home against Port Jervis.
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IN PHOTO: From left: Chase Wheeler, Matthias Welles, coach Jason Miller, Carson Rockwell, and Ben Shaw. ... PHOTO BY TIM BIRNEY.
