Manton Looks to Compete for Highland Title

MANTON – A year after posting its first winning season in 10 years, the Manton football program took a step back in 2015.

After going 7-3 in 2015 and reaching the postseason for the first time since 1994, the Rangers went 3-6 last season, dropping games to Johannesburg-Lewiston and Highland Conference champion McBain by a combined five points.

With improved speed on both sides of the ball, Manton is optimistic in 2016.

"This is one of the most tight-knit, family-oriented groups that I’ve been around,” coach Travis Waddell said. “I think these players really do care about each other, they are really truly brothers, and I think in order to have a successful team that’s really what you need to have.

“Overall, just with team speed offensively and defensively, we’re looking to let our athletes make plays out in space, and so that’s really what we are looking at moving forward. We also have a pretty decent offensive line I think, so I think that’s really going to anchor our team, moving forward into the season."

The Rangers open their season at Frankfort on Aug. 26. They also have non-league games against Suttons Bay (Oct. 14) and Rogers City (Oct. 21).