By Daijah White / Sports Editor

Missouri Valley College Football has kicked off their 2025 season. Head Coach LaQuentin Black started things a little differently this year, having the team report earlier than usual to begin preseason.

LaQuentin Black is getting ready for his first official season as Head Coach of the Vikings. A former standout Viking himself, he has seen the program when it was thriving and has hopes to build it back up.  

When recruiting for this season, Coach Black and his staff focused on complementing the talent already in place while adding new assets to strengthen the roster. 

“It’s to continue to make sure we add the right type of depth to what they already had,” said Black. “And then making sure that we add value to what the kids’ strengths are right now.” 

Accountability, Dependability, and Toughness are the three words Black used to describe the identity and philosophy he has brought to Valley Football. These are traits he looks for not only in new recruits, but also in his returning players.

Coach Black emphasized that consistency will be key to the Vikings success this season. Whether it is going to class, practice, or the weight room, he believes staying focused on the daily routine is how the team will grow and succeed. 

“We talk to our guys about having a 1-0 mindset and making daily deposits,” said Black. 

Senior Marcus Stepanoff, chosen by his teammates as one of the captains this year, has been part of the program for four seasons. He said Coach Black has already brought a different mentality compared to past coaches.

The team reported to campus in early July to begin their preseason, which is earlier than any other season Stepanoffs has been here. 

“It was good for the team,” said Stepanoff. “It gave us time to learn the plays and figure things out earlier.” 

With all their preparation, the Vikings remain focused on their goals.

“Win the conference and keep going for the playoffs,” said Stepanoff. 

After countless practices, lifts, and meetings, the Vikings beat Clarke University 28-24 putting them at 1-0 to start the season.