By Blake Chadwick
After an 11-1 finish a year ago, all signs pointed to the Derby Panthers getting another state championship berth after starting 11-0. That was until their season was ended by one of their rivals of recent, the Manhattan Indians.
The Panthers now are back with a vengeance, one that will hopefully give them their first state championship since 2020.
One key player for the Panthers this year will be Braesyn Williams, a long and rangy defensive back.
“My biggest strengths are my man to man coverage,” Williams said. “Also my ability to read the pass, run, and my recovery speed. I’ve got fluid hips, and I take pride in being a lockdown defender who isn’t afraid to mix it up in the run game. I also bring vocal leadership to the secondary.”
Williams has played football for 12 years and will step into an even bigger role this season.
“My personal goals are to have 10 picks by the end of the season and to allow no catches,” Williams said. “My team goals are to take us to the state championship and win.”
The junior is currently receiving a lot of interest due to his size and speed at his position and knows that being at Derby will set him up for even more opportunities.
“I’m looking for a college program that plays fast and physically and emphasizes player development, and feels like a second home,” Williams said. “I want to be somewhere that pushes me to be great both as a player and a person.”
