Joel Struckhoff, the head football coach at Thunder Ridge, was chosen as the Salina Regional Coach of the Month for August. Struckhoff led the Longhorns to the 8-Man Division II sub-state round last season where they fell to the eventual champion, Axtell.

Struckhoff said his team’s run throughout the season was full of memorable moments, but one stood out above the rest.

“The Osborne game from last season will always be a good memory, being down early in the game and sticking together as a team to come back,” Struckhoff said. “We’ve had several close games with them over the past few years and it felt good to finally come away with a victory.” 

For the past four years, Struckhoff has been Thunder Ridge’s head coach, where he has a record of 30-12 and has implemented specific philosophies.

“My coaching philosophy is a run heavy offense that relies on being sound offensively, that doesn’t turn the ball over, a line that is smart, and a physical/power backfield,” Struckhoff said. “On defense we want to be aggressive, blitz often, and put pressure on the opposing teams.” 

Expectations are high for the Longhorns this season and Struckhoff is optimistic that his team is can make another deep run in the playoffs.

“A large senior class with several returning starters will anchor a good offense & defense from last season,” Struckhoff said. “We move to the west this year and look to compete for a district title and a deep playoff push again this year.”