Pirates return 13 seniors for 2025 campaign

The Polson Pirates enter the 2025 football season with confidence to compete in one of the toughest leagues in Class A. Head coach Carson Oakland said the team has embraced a strong offseason and is motivated to take the next step this fall.

“Our expectations are to continue to close to gaps on the teams in our conference and compete in everything that we do,” Oakland said. “It starts with our practice habits every day.”

The Pirates have put together a healthy roster with a balance of upperclassmen and younger talent.

“We have around 50 players out in our program this year with 13 seniors,” Oakland said.

That senior presence is expected to provide both leadership and stability. Oakland said the foundation was set in the summer, and the players are already showing growth.

“I think our strength is the summer that we had and that we don’t have to reteach a lot of things,” Oakland said. “Our players understand the system that is set for them and are buying into the program. Something that might be challenging for us is going to be our travel schedule and the non-conference games. We looking forward to challenges and treat them as an opportunity for growth.”

Class A’s Northwest division has consistently been among the state’s most competitive, and Oakland expects no different this year.

“I think we have one of the more competitive leagues in class A,” Oakland said. “I think we will leave a good team out of the playoffs. Columbia Falls and Bigfork return a lot of key players on both sides on the ball. Whitefish has to replace of key players but return several lineman and are always well coached. We play those teams in three straight games, so that will be a challenging stretch for us come conference play.”

That stretch of games will test Polson’s endurance and execution, especially with tough road trips on the schedule. But Oakland said the program embraces the adversity.

Several Pirates will be counted on to play pivotal roles on both sides of the ball. Oakland highlighted three players in particular who bring experience and playmaking ability.

“Holden Emerson will be a do-it-all kid for us on offense this year. We will look to get him the ball,” Oakland said.

He added that hard work and consistency are trademarks of another returning standout. “

Cody Haggard is a kid who works extremely hard and will be a big asset to our team offensively and defensively,” Oakland said.

On the line, the Pirates have a player who has already drawn attention at the college level.

“Brody Bulette is gaining lots of attention after committing to MSU this summer. I expect a lot out of him this fall to make a difference on our offensive and defensive line,” Oakland said.

The Pirates open the season with high expectations and a belief that their preparation will carry them through the grind of the fall. With a roster that blends veteran leadership, hard-working playmakers, and a strong commitment to the program, Polson will look to make its mark in 2025.