2024-25 Record: 5-5 overall; 4-4 MCC
TEAM STATS
– Total Offense: 3,208 yds (3rd) – 356.4/g
• Rushing: 2,817 yds (2nd) – 313.0/g
– Scoring: 306 pts – 34.0/g
– Defense Allowed: 2,503 yds (5th) – 278.1/g
BIGGEST LOSSES
– Quinton Ellison (DL) – 9 TFL, 1.5 sacks
TOP RETURNERS
– Gabriel Borisch (RB, Jr) – 1,748 rush yds, 20 TD
– Andrew Walford (OL, Jr)
– Quinn Dixon (OL, Jr)
– Jacob Korotkov (LB, So) – 64 tackles
– Chase Ferguson (DB, So) – 6 INT
The all-conference list last year reflected the promise of Southridge’s youth. Running back Gabe Borisch earned First Team honors with 1,748 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns. In the trenches, seniors Andrew Walford and Quinn Dixon both secured Second Team recognition on the offensive line, while junior defenders Jacob Korotkov (64 tackles) and Chase Ferguson (6 interceptions) also landed on the Second Team.
Entering his fifth year at the helm, Southridge head coach Matt Johnson is leading a Suns teams with experience, depth, and
leadership.
“We started seven or eight sophomores at times last year,” said Johnson. “Now a lot of our returners are juniors and seniors, and you can see the work they’ve put in this offseason. Bigger, faster, stronger—and they’ve become great leaders.”
At quarterback, senior Coppin Hunkapillar—known by teammates as “Cap” or “Captain America”—returns as a two-year starter. Though the Suns’ wing-T offense doesn’t often put the QB in the spotlight, Johnson stressed Hunkapillar’s importance.
“His name might not be in the paper if Gabe runs for 300 yards, but we don’t do anything without him,” Johnson said. “He’s our captain, our leader, and a selfless player who just wants what’s best for the team.”
Beyond the returning stars, Johnson pointed to several rising players ready to make their mark. Sophomore Stockton Parrish brings athleticism and physicality at receiver and DB, while junior Brandyn Hammond adds depth in the backfield. Freshman Toa Haertling has already impressed, and sophomore lineman Clayton Lembcke is stepping into a starting role.
When it comes to goals, Johnson keeps the focus narrow. “We try not to look too far ahead. Obviously, everybody wants to win league and win state, but for us it’s about getting better every day,” he said. “We want to prove people wrong who doubt us—and prove right those who believe in us.”