An experienced group in 2011 led the Branson Pirates to five straight wins in the middle of the season on the way to earning a berth in the Class 5 playoffs.  This season, Head Coach Steve Hancock is looking for a new group of play makers and leaders.

HEAD COACH - Steve Hancock

2011 RECORD – (6-6) Lost to Nixa in the Class 5 second round

PLAYERS TO WATCH - Chandler Hall (QB), Isaiah Daniels (RB), DaQuan Ervin (DB), Cade Stone (DB)

Despite having to replace most of the offensive line and wide receiver starters, the Pirates do have experience at quarterback.  Branson is led by senior Chandler Hall.   In his first year as Branson’s quarterback last season, he threw for 592 yards.

“You always feel good when you have a quarterback with experience coming back,” said Steve Hancock. “But we've got a lot of holes to fill up front, the quarterback's not any better than what he's got protecting him up front.”

Hall will be helped in the backfield by running back Isiah Daniels.

Although lacking in experience, Hancock is pleased with the Pirates work effort.

“The kids have prepared hard in the summer, they did a nice job in the weight room with condition and we feel like that's carried over into August practice,” said Hancock.

Although the Pirates started 0-3 in 2011, Branson rebounded to make the Class 5 Playoffs.

“Our goal is always to be conference and district champs,” said Hancock. “We probably had more experience last year, we've got a lot of holes to fill this year.  We've got a lot of kids coming off the J.V. level that are going to be varsity players for us.”

Branson opens the season August 24 at Cassville.