MONTICELLO, Ill. (WCIA) — Significant changes are on the horizon for the Monticello football team as they see 18 seniors from last year’s Class 3A state runner-up team graduate.

One of this squad’s most experienced players, Nolan Buehnerkemper is embracing a new role this season, making the move from receiver to quarterback.

While this fall brings plenty of new things to learn for the senior signal caller, he’s embracing the role well at preseason practices.

CULLY WELTER

“One thing I’ve observed this summer that pleases me is his leadership,” said head coach Cully Welter. “He is definitely someone all the kids respect, but it’s essential to step up and embrace that leadership role, and sometimes be vocal even when it’s not the easiest thing to do, and he’s accomplished that.” “He’s a really intelligent kid with great game awareness.”

“Being a first-year quarterback is quite challenging,” Buehnerkemper remarked. “The off-season reps, seven-on-seven practices, and similar activities are crucial for improving decision-making and building chemistry with the receivers.”