The Road to the Playoffs
The Tigers have continued to build momentum as the regular season comes to a close and the postseason begins. This week’s practices have been among the best of the year, with a high level of focus, energy, and competition across the field. The players understand what’s ahead, and the work they’ve put in this week reflects the opportunity in front of them.
Monday also marked the final JV game of the season. We’re proud of the effort and development that group showed throughout the year. Those players have continued to grow, and we’re excited to see how that experience carries over into the future of Tiger Football.
Now, the postseason is here. Fort Scott opens the playoffs at home Friday night against the Lansing Lions, with kickoff set for 7:00 PM at Frary Field. It’s win or go home, and the Tigers are ready for the challenge.
There’s no better time to bring your best. Let’s pack the stands, bring the energy, and give these Tigers the home-field atmosphere they’ve earned all season.
Senior Spotlight: Raj Gugnani
This week’s Senior Spotlight features Tiger kicker Raj Gugnani!
How long have you played football?
This is my first year playing football.
What’s your favorite Tiger Football memory?
Kicking my very first PAT in the season opener.
What does being a Fort Scott Tiger mean to you?
Getting the opportunity to play with the best.
Who has had the biggest impact on you as a teammate?
Jax Armstrong. He’s been my holder all season.
What’s your favorite part of game day?
Seeing all the fans come out and support us.
What’s your pregame song?
“Rockstar” by Nickelback.
What are your plans after high school?
I plan to attend a four-year university, pursue a degree in accounting, and eventually become a commercial pilot.
Finish the sentence: Tiger Football is…
Committed.
Thanks for being part of Tiger Football, Raj. We’re glad to have you in the program!
Image via: Larry Amer Photography
Practice Player(s) of the Week
A big shoutout to two Tigers who have been setting the tone during practice and helping their teammates prepare for Friday night!
Last Week: Killian Magner
Killian has been flying around, hustling, and bringing great effort every day. He’s consistently given the team a great look during scout team work, doing his part to make practice competitive and help the varsity prepare for each week’s opponent. That kind of effort doesn’t go unnoticed, and Killian has done an excellent job embracing his role and making those around him better.
This Week: Colt Dauben
Freshman Colt Dauben earned this week’s recognition after giving the team a phenomenal scout look throughout the week. With the freshman season now complete, Colt is one of a few freshmen who were asked to stick around with the varsity, continue practicing, and dress out on Friday nights. He’s made the most of that opportunity, stepping in, competing, and helping the varsity get ready for the postseason.
Congratulations to both Killian and Colt. Scout team work doesn’t always get the spotlight on Friday nights, but it plays a huge part in preparing a team for game day. Their effort, attitude, and willingness to do the work help push the entire program forward. That’s what being a Tiger is all about.
Coach’s Corner
This week’s Coach’s Corner featured Kyron Kegler and assistant coach Coach Dunkenson alongside Head Coach Jonathan Stark.
Kyron joined the show as the Player of the Week and talked about the team’s mindset heading into the postseason. With the playoffs bringing a win-or-go-home atmosphere, his focus was simple: set the tone early, play with confidence, and show Lansing what Tiger football is all about.
Coach Dunkenson also joined the conversation to talk about his role with the team, his coaching philosophy, and the growth of the program. Working with the defensive line, he’s seen tremendous improvement from the beginning of the summer to now. He also discussed the importance of getting younger players valuable game experience and building depth throughout the program.
Coach Stark touched on the importance of focusing on the process rather than getting caught up in the outcome. The message to the players has been to win each day, control what they can control, and make every snap count. The Tigers don’t need to play afraid of losing. They need to play confidently, play hard, and trust the work they’ve put in.
The show also took a closer look at Lansing. The Lions bring plenty of size and speed and have faced a challenging schedule against larger 5A competition. Their offense can spread the field and throw the football, but they also have the ability to line up and run it. The Tigers know they’ll have their hands full, but they’re excited for the opportunity.
As Coach Stark put it, there’s nothing like playoff football at home. The crowd has been incredible all season, and the team is looking forward to giving Tiger Nation something to cheer about Friday night.
Next Up: Round One
The Tigers begin their postseason journey at home against the Lansing Lions.
Fort Scott enters the playoffs as the undefeated 2026 SEK League champions, and now the focus turns to the next challenge. Lansing brings a talented and well-coached team, but the Tigers have earned the opportunity to play at home and are ready to compete.
It’s playoff football. Every snap matters. Every play matters. The Tigers have put in the work, and now it’s time to go play.
Friday Night | 7:00 PM | Frary Field
Let’s fill the stands and make it a night to remember. Go Tigers!