HAYS - Twenty-six players took part in the first practice of the season for the TMP-Marian football team Monday.
The Monarchs and second year coach Jay Harris are coming off a 3-6 season 2019 campaign.
TMP coach Jay Harris
TMP returns seven players who started on offense last year including their leading passer and rusher, sophomore quarterback Kade Harris.
Harris amassed 1,349 total years and 16 touchdowns in 2019.
The Monarchs also return leading receiver, junior Jace Wentling who hauled in 19 receptions for 333 yards and four touchdowns last season.
While TMP also return seven players who started on defense in 2019 they have to replace their leading tackler from a season ago.
Harris, who was a second-team All Mid-Continent League defensive selection finished with 69 tackles last season.
The Monarchs, in their second year as a 2A school, in football, will have six new opponents on the schedule. As a member of 2A district 7, they will play Cimarron, Ellis, Southwestern Heights, Lakin and Syracuse.
Harris said they are expecting three foreign exchange students to join the team when they arrive for a total of 29 players.
TMP is set to open the season at home on Sept. 4 against Oakley.