Written by: Brandon Baney
The Century Diamondbacks had to start from scratch in 2021. The D-backs had to replace 20 of 22 starting positions, and break in a new head coach in Logan Horrocks.
The season started on a promising note. After a 20-14 Week 0 loss to Minico (who went undefeated in the regular season), Century defeated Bonneville 15-13 to even their record at 1-1.
They wouldn't win again until October 15th against Canyon Ridge as injuries and low overall program number took its toll.
To make matters worse, Horrocks bolted after just one season as head coach, leaving Century fans and players alike wondering if any type of stability could ever be achieved.
But then, a familiar face stepped up to lead the troops. Ryan Fleischmann, who coached the Diamondbacks in the mid-2000s, threw his hat into the ring to embark on a second stint as Century head coach.
In recent years, Fleischmann had helped the program from afar, as his sons Titan (now at Montana State) and Bruin (now at Air Force) helped lead the Diamondbacks through a solid four-year stretch.
Since Century was so young and took their lumps a year ago, the hope is that a more seasoned group, coupled with improved depth, can help the Diamondbacks compete for a playoff berth in the three-team Southern Idaho Conference.
Korbin Johnson (RB), Tristan Burrows (WR), Boston Fitch (OL), Jackson Geslin (DE), Kaden Horton (LB), and Blake Phelan (LB) are all back after earning All-Conference honors a year ago. Burrows, in particular, has been turning heads during summer workout sessions.
The Diamondbacks' schedule will be challenging in 2022 as six playoff teams from a year ago (including 5A Highland) appear.
Fleischmann and the D-backs wouldn't have it any other way.