LOCUST GROVE PIRATES
Coach: KEITH WILSON
1-9
Locust Grove looks to turn a corner in 2026–27 after a 1-9 season, with a roster that has bought into a new culture. Head coach Keith Wilson, in his second year, says this year’s team has embraced the emphasis on hard work and discipline, and has had “a very good off‑season in the weight room.” The Pirates are “starting to gel as a team” and better understand the offensive and defensive systems. Wilson’s staff includes assistants Colton Witt, Jesse Dorsch, Trevin Powell, Jake Tolbert and Taylor Ragsdale.
On offense, Locust Grove returns five starters and will run a multiple spread system. Wilson wants the Pirates to “dictate the terms of the game” by being disciplined and controlling the tempo. Top offensive players include senior receiver Fuchi Lor, junior quarterback Carson Ragsdale and senior running back Blaze Summers. Sophomore linemen William Rubio (right tackle) and Cash Kirby (center) are key young pieces up front, while junior H‑back Diesel Russel provides versatility in the backfield and passing game. The mix of senior skill talent and emerging underclassmen gives Locust Grove a chance to grow offensively throughout the season.
Defensively, the Pirates also return five starters and base out of a 3‑4. The defensive philosophy is built on effort and “relentlessly pursuing the ball,” with daily emphasis on hustle and tackling. Junior strong safety Dusty Ross and junior linebacker Diesel Russel headline the unit, joined by senior outside linebacker Aiden Littledave and senior nose David Butler. Lor and junior corner Cale Lyons man the corner spots, giving Locust Grove experience on the back end. Rubio is the underclassman to watch after starting every game on the offensive line as a freshman; Wilson notes he has made strides in understanding the offense and has put a lot of work into the weight room, positioning him for a strong sophomore season. Summers is praised as “the definition of hard work” who shows up daily with a great attitude and is emerging as a team leader.
8-28 – vs. Jay
9-3 – at Salina
9-11 – vs. Adair
9-25 – at Perkins-Tryon
10-2 – vs. Inola
10-9 – at Verdigris
10-15 – vs. Heritage Hall
10-23 – vs. Muldrow
10-30 – at Stigler
11-6 – vs. Bristow
To nominate a high school student for a feature in VYPE Magazine email a nomination to [email protected]
