Richmond enters the 2026 varsity football season with experience, proven offensive weapons and a senior class determined to make its final campaign memorable.

The Spartans open Friday at home against Oak Grove under longtime coach Nick Persell, who is beginning his 12th year at Richmond and ninth as head football coach. Richmond returns 18 letter winners from last season.

Persell’s staff includes Dakota Ah Mu coaching wide receivers, Colby Bowers with the offensive line, defensive coordinator Jeremy Helton, Bret Higgins coaching the defensive line and coordinating special teams, Michael Lee with the running backs and Zach McGill coaching linebackers.

The offense returns six starters, all seniors. Brayden Black and Brody Farnan return on the line, Jacob Lieberknecht at quarterback, Brice Dome and Malikiah Tharp at wide receiver and Colton Hewlett at tight end.

Richmond also brings back considerable experience defensively. Senior Tucker Adams and Farnan return on the line, junior Kypton Burn…