WEST CHESTER TOWNSHIP, Ohio-The Lakota West football team, which has reached the Division I regional finals four consecutive years but finished as runners-up each time, is highly motivated for the upcoming season. Senior tight end Luka Gilbert and the team are determined to overcome past disappointments. They will face St. Xavier on August 23 to start the season, with renewed hope after losing to Moeller in the finals for the past three years. The team, which finished 11-3 last season, returns nine offensive starters, including senior quarterback Sam Wiles and junior running back Braydon Johnson. Gilbert, a key player committed to Miami (Fla.), is a standout athlete and part of a strong returning lineup that includes an experienced offensive line and notable skill players like wide receivers Trey Barnette and Tyson Davis.
