Willow High School enters the season focused on rebuilding consistency and competing for district and playoff opportunities after recent years of roster challenges. The program is beginning to stabilize again, with increased participation and a larger roster giving the team more depth heading into the season. Under Head Coach JJ Smith, Willow is built around experience, versatility, and player development. With several multi-year starters returning and a more connected team culture, the program is looking to take a step forward both competitively and structurally this season.
COACH Q&A
What makes your program unique this season?
“We’re back in the district, so we’re playing for district honors and a chance to get to the playoffs. We haven’t had that for the last couple years.”
How would you describe your team’s identity this year?
“Experience. We have some three-year starters at most of our skill positions, and this will be their fourth year starting. Just building off last year’s success and continuing to get better.”
Who are some key players people should watch this season?
Daryl Franklin (ATH – 4.3 speed, all-purpose threat)
Ahmad Vappi (WR – record-breaking receiver, 1,000+ yards, 4-year starter)
Marcus Joseph (WR/QB – 6’2”, multi-sport athlete)
Tobis Emils (ATH – emerging sophomore contributor)
Entire returning offensive line
Are there any underrated players who deserve more attention?
Takai Johnson (LB – team leader in tackles)
Gabe Lombard (DB – 3-year starter)
Justin Waldron (DL – 350-pound interior lineman)
Nathan Soma (LB – 6’2”, 225, veteran presence)
Jaden Wright (MLB)
Ian Tuttle (DB/Nickel – versatile defensive back)
Which players are getting college interest or have potential to play at the next level?
Ahmad Vappi
Daryl Franklin
Marcus Joseph
What are your expectations for this team moving forward?
“Focus on each day, prepare and train, get better through spring ball, build momentum through summer workouts, and be ready for the season.”
What has been the biggest improvement from last season?
“Participation and numbers. We went from not having enough players to now having around 65–70 guys and developing more players.”
Why should people be paying attention to your program?
“We have underrated guys who should be getting more recognition. They’ve been successful against strong competition, and we want them to get opportunities to play at the next level.”
What would you want college coaches to know about your team?
“We’re one of the highest academic schools in the state. A lot of our players are well-rounded and involved in music and other activities. They’re hard-working student-athletes.”
How would you describe this team in one sentence?
“Connected. Some of these guys have been together since kindergarten.”
How long have you been coaching and what has that experience meant?
“This is my 27th year coaching. It’s bigger than wins and losses,it’s about developing character and good people, and that’s a school-wide effort.”
PLAYERS
Daryl Franklin (ATH)
An explosive all-purpose athlete with elite 4.3 speed, Franklin is a dynamic playmaker capable of scoring in multiple ways, including offense and special teams.
Ahmad Vappi (WR)
A record-setting receiver and four-year starter, Vappi has broken school touchdown and receiving records while serving as the team’s top offensive threat.
Marcus Joseph (WR/QB)
A versatile 6’2” multi-sport athlete who contributes at both receiver and quarterback, bringing athleticism and playmaking ability to the offense.
Emils Tobis(ATH)
A young developing talent who gained valuable experience last season and is expected to take on a bigger role moving forward.
T’khi Johnson (LB)
Defensive leader who led the team in tackles last season and sets the tone with consistent production and physicality.
Gabe Lombard (DB)
A reliable three-year starter in the secondary who provides experience and stability at cornerback.
Justin Waldron (DL)
A massive 350-pound defensive lineman who anchors the interior and demands attention from opposing offenses.
Nathan Soma (LB)
A 6’2”, 225-pound linebacker with multiple years of starting experience and strong leadership on defense.
Jaden Wright (LB)
A returning starter at middle linebacker who plays a key role in the heart of the defense.
Ian Tuttle (DB/Nickel)
A versatile defensive back who can play multiple positions in the secondary, including nickel and safety
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