By Matt Browning
Wichita Collegiate’s Tristan Sprole is one of the most decorated two-way player in the state of Kansas. Sprole was a first team all-state offensive and defensive linemen last season by multiple media outlets.
But there is still one accolade Sprole has not won that he is focused on in 2024.
“The only goal I have yet to reach for myself is DPOY,” Sprole said. “I’ve reached every all-state accolade that I’ve set my mind to, so this is all I’m chasing individually.”
The Spartans have been one of the best teams in Class 3A over Sprole’s time with the team, but they have not been able to get to the championship game. Sprole is determined to get Collegiate to its ultimate goal this season.
“Our team has made it clear that we want to win state, and I am fully committed to that,” Sprole said. “I have yet to achieve this in high school and I think a team like this one could be the one to do it.”
Being able to rush the passer is clearly Sprole’s strength as a defensive lineman. But that didn’t stop him for trying to be even more dominant.
“My straight-line speed has always helped me beat offensive linemen off the ball, but I could rely on it more in pass-rushing scenarios,” Sprole said. “I’ve done acceleration and deceleration drills to help keep my speed under control while having eyes on the QB. I think newer pass-rush moves that I’ve worked on will help me this season, too.”