This season is shaping up to be our best one yet, and Varsity Vibe will be there every step of the way with around-the-clock coverage. In case you missed it, we made a BIG announcement this week!

🎙️ Dom Mirocke on Northside football
📈 Keeping track of what’s happening around the state
👀 Naming our One to Watch

Let’s get to it!

🎙️ Moving Up. The 2025 season was a tough one for the Fort Smith Northside Grizzlies and first year head coach Dom Mirocke. However, they are carrying motivation and growth into a 2026 year they believe will prove who they are on the football field. In addition to a handful of players that will be big contributors on the field, Mirocke believes this upcoming season will be better than 2025.

⏰ Tiger Time. Bentonville is using fall practices to focus on execution as the Tigers prepare for another run at the 7A title. After reaching the state championship game each of the last four seasons, Bentonville has plenty of new faces, especially on offense, where junior Evan Canode takes over at quarterback. The Tigers return several key players on defense and will look to their experienced leaders to help guide a young roster.

⛳️ Teeing Off. Harrison took home the team title at the Calvin and Sissy Czeschin Memorial Tournament in Mountain Home, beating out nine other schools for the top spot. The Goblins finished with a two-day score of 607, beating Rogers by 11 strokes. Harrison’s Berkley Knapp also earned individual medalist honors with a 147.

🏆 Castillo Shines. Bentonville West girls soccer coach Kerry Castillo was named Arkansas Coach of the Year by the United Soccer Coaches Organization after leading the Lady Wolverines to a 15-4-4 record and a 6A state runner-up finish. Despite starting five freshmen, Bentonville West also finished tied for second in the 6A-West Conference. Castillo’s leadership helped the young team make a deep postseason run and finish as one of the state’s top teams.

🏈 Shiloh Christian senior Silas Nantze is coming off a standout junior season, recording 126 tackles, four interceptions and a pick-six while helping the Saints win the state championship. With another year of experience under his belt, Nantze will be a key leader as Shiloh Christian looks to defend its title this season.

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