A team to keep a close eye on this year in the 3A Division I classification is the Paradise Panthers. After an outstanding season last year, the Panthers fell just short in the semifinals against the Malakoff Tigers. However, they appear poised to take the next step and emerge as serious contenders for the state title this season.
This year, the Panthers will have a slightly different look under new head coach Tommy Koch, the son of former head coach Joe Koch, who now leads the program.
Junior quarterback Ayden Olalde will be under center after helping Paradise to its first regional championship last season. Joining him in the backfield will be running back Luke Brown, an All-State selection who rushed for 952 yards and 12 touchdowns a year ago. Brown will also be making contributions on the defensive side as well alongside fellow All-State senior linebacker Teagen Lambert, and All District Linebacker Cash Watson.
With experienced leaders on both sides of the ball and a coach with deep ties to the program, the Panthers are determined to make a strong push for the title.
“Our kids have high expectations, and they do want to win a state championship,” Coach Tommy Koch said. The Panthers believe they have what it takes, but their focus this year is on one word: finish, strong performances deep in the playoffs will be what it takes to capture their first-ever state championship.
Photography courtesy of Mike Hall and Paradise ISD