Wildcats to test fresh players, coach against Hays

The Wildcats return to the gridiron this week looking to reverse a recent trend and claim their first season opener in three years over the Hays Hawks.

Elgin opens the 2025-26 regular season with plenty to prove in the 7:30 p.m. matchup Thursday, Aug. 28. The varsity lineup fell to Hays 31-21 at home last season, and will take on a challenging road ahead under new Head Coach Rich Lucero. 

Lucero, moving up from offensive coordinator after the departure of Heath Clawson this year, inherits a roster with several question marks — particularly on offense. The Wildcats have to replace three key contributors missing from last fall.