By Matt Browning

As the head football coach at Salina Central, Mark Sandbo understands the importance of culture. But the culture that has been built in the Mustangs’ program starts and ends with Sandbo, with so many people in between.

“Our culture is strong because of the investment we have from our staff not just with football but towards all students and their involvements across the board,” Sandbo said. “Hire great coaches, which we have, and let them have ownership in the program.”

From an X’s and O’s standpoint, the system Sandbo and his staff have put into place is one where it can be adapted no matter what the Mustangs’ roster looks like.

“We have a system in what we do but our system adapts to the personnel and strengths we have each year,” Sandbo said.

For six years, Sandbo has led Salina Central and as he said, there are too many special memories to point out, even though last season’s league title would be up there.

“Being league champions and regional champions from last season was pretty special for our kids and program but honestly there is too many to single out just one or two,” Sandbo said. “Every season has an impact on me whether its team or player successes.”

The Mustangs had some exceptional talent last season and plenty of those players return this season, which has Sandbo excited.

“We return a lot of guys with Friday night experience,” Sandbo said. “The goals are pretty much the same year in and year out but this group is really driven to take another step forward in what we could accomplish.”