Greencastle's Stephens eyes big junior campaign

After a huge sophomore season that saw Greencastle quarterback Cole Stephens help guide the Tiger Cubs to a sectional championship appearance, the Miami (OH) recruit is putting in the work this offseason to get ready for a banner junior season. 

A year ago, Stephens completed 63 percent of his passes last season, throwing for over 2,800 yards and 29 touchdowns as the Tiger Cubs fell to Linton-Stockton in the sectional title contest. 

Last year, the Tiger Cubs faced injuries at several key positions that hurt Greencastle during the regular season. However, Stephens notes when all the pieces were healthy, the results were strong, as was evidenced by a strong playoff run.

"During the season, we battled against some major injuries and that made it very hard for us, as a team, to compete with other full strength teams. One of the most satisfying things I can say about that experience was the ability that we had to essentially throw some guys in, and I feel like we got the most out of them that we could. I would also say the most satisfying part was watching so many guys battle these injuries and be able to come back for the playoffs, and the fact that we had the ability to play full strength in the playoffs was incredible to me because of where these guys appeared to be at weeks before in their injuries," Stephens told The Putnam County Post. 

With an offer already in hand from Miami (OH), Stephens looks to draw even more attention this coming season from college coaches. 

"I am very blessed to receive the chances I get from high school football, MSP 7v7, and my parents for taking me to the college camps I go to. The highest point for me, obviously, was getting an offer from Miami (OH). It was such a surreal feeling talking to the head coach on their logo and it is just something that seems like it was from a dream. I wish I could change the ability that I get to show college coaches, and how much I understand football because I feel like that is where I shine the brightest. I am able to help our guys get lined up and help them know what to do so I just wish that I had more of a chance to showcase what I know to colleges," he said.

With the offseason in full swing, Stephens has been busy in the weight room and looks forward to the upcoming 7v7 work, which helps him get reps in and prepare. 

"My primary personal goals and objectives are to just continue to work in the weight room, get some good reps in 7v7, and do whatever I can to help the younger guys who are going to be seeing a lot more of a role for us this year get ready for the season. We are lifting as a team on Wednesdays and Fridays and the atmosphere in the weight room is just incredible. I am really excited to go into the new season with some different faces," Stephens said. 

With the season on the horizon, Stephens knows more will be expected of him in year three, especially with the Tiger Cubs having some new faces at several key positions this fall. 

"For next season with how many new faces we are going to have across the board, I think it is important that we get the new guys settled in quick and get rid of the nerves early. I think the main thing we need to focus on this offseason is to ensure success in the regular season and postseason is to keep making strides in the weightroom and to trust the scheme and your brothers to just do your job one play at a time," Stephens said.