Last season, the Dryden Eagles got a taste of Division 1 football and will aim to carry that experience into 2019 as they return to Division 2. 

Head coach Geoff Zilkalns, who has been with the team for 26 years (22 as head coach), acknowledged that newcomers will be relied upon heavily, with just 11 players in grades 11 or 12. 

Offensively, the team will "hope to run the ball effectively with three different backs," including junior Micah Clarke, who is expected to have a large role. Peter Zilkalns and Troy Kiroauc will battle for playing time at the pivot position, while Team Manitoba U16 member Josh Russell is expected to be a key fixture on the offensive line. He brings a tonne of positive energy and is "eager and excited."

Defensively, Dryden must find a way to replace impact linebackers Gus Brosseau and Bailey Murrell. The former is the program's all-time tackles leader while the latter is off to Mount Allison to continue his football journey. 

Zilkalns acknowledged that the secondary is the "most experienced and talented group" and will be led by senior Nick Pinette, who is "fast and aggressive." Fellow DB Karson Bibeau also brings a physical tone to the back end.