28 FEB. 2025 · In the heart of Kansas City, high school football is experiencing a resurgence that's capturing the excitement of players, coaches, and fans alike. After a year-long hiatus, Central High School has revived its football program, a move that is being hailed as a triumph of determination and community spirit.
Central High School's football team, the Blue Eagles, had to shut down due to a shortage of students interested in playing. However, with increased enrollment and a renewed focus on building the team, the school has managed to get its football program back on track. This revival is partly attributed to the launch of a middle school tackle football program, which has helped create a talent pipeline and generate fresh interest in the sport[2].
Coach Michael Klyce, the new coach at Central, has been instrumental in engaging with students and rebuilding the team's morale. Already, about two dozen players have signed up, and early morning training sessions have become a regular sight, with students eager to don their helmets and pads once again. For seniors like Coltin Ferguson, this revival is a last chance to experience high school football before graduation, and he is grateful to be part of the Blue Eagles rather than a combined team with rival school Southeast[2].
This local success story is mirrored in the broader high school football landscape in Kansas. The 2025 recruiting class is filled with talented players from across the state. Andrew Babalola, an offensive tackle from Overland Park's Blue Valley Northwest High School, tops the ESPN list of Kansas recruits with his impressive 6'6" frame and 270-pound build. Other notable recruits include Linkon Cure, a tight end from Goodland High School, and Dawson Merritt, an outside linebacker from Blue Valley High School[1].
On the team front, schools like Mill Valley, Gardner-Edgerton, and Derby are standing out in the rankings. Mill Valley, for instance, is ranked highly in the 5A classification, while Gardner-Edgerton and Derby are strong contenders in the 6A category[3].
The Kansas City Chiefs are also playing a role in promoting high school football. Through their High School Coach of the Week program, now in its 28th season, the Chiefs are recognizing and rewarding outstanding coaches who are making a difference in their communities[4].
In neighboring Missouri, the influence of Kansas City's football enthusiasm is evident. Jackson Cantwell, a top college football prospect from Nixa High School, has been selected by the Chiefs to participate in Nike's 'The Next Ones' combine. This prestigious event, held before Super Bowl 59, will see Cantwell showcase his talents alongside other elite high school players and receive guidance from NFL legends[5].
As the season unfolds, the energy around high school football in Kansas City is palpable. From the revival of Central High School's program to the recognition of top recruits and coaches, it's clear that football is more than just a sport—it's a community builder and a source of pride for these young athletes and their schools.