Central Idaho League: St. Maries building on 2015 success

The St. Maries football team is coming off its most successful season in some time.

The Lumberjacks finished 8-2 with their two losses coming to eventual State 2A champ and Central Idaho League winner Grangeville and state runner-up Aberdeen.

St. Maries knows how it stacked up against the best in the state. The Lumberjacks’ challenge this season is to continue the success.

The Lumberjacks have some holes to fill, but coach Craig Tefft is confident the new players will step up.

“We have 15 seniors back with starting or playing experience,” Tefft said. “The kids got a taste of a great season last year and want to build on that success.”

St. Maries returns starters Kiefer Gibson (quarterback), Donovan Rottini (running back/defensive line), Dylan Edwards (RB/free safety), Bryant Asbury (wide receiver/linebacker), Jake Seiler (WR/defensive back), Nate Masterson (tight end/DL), Zack Rouse (LB), Dakota Wilson (DL) and Parker Telford (offensive line).

Masterson was the CIL’s player of the year.

All three CIL teams advance to the playoffs for a third straight year.

Grangeville has owned the CIL, winning state titles twice since 2011.