As the 2025 season approaches, Bethel-Tate High School Football is focused on growth, development, and overcoming challenges. Head Coach Jeff Essig and his staff are dedicated to building a well-rounded program, emphasizing multi-sport participation, strength training, and team bonding while tackling financial hurdles.
Offseason Focus and Player Development
At a small school like Bethel-Tate, many athletes compete in multiple sports, and the coaching staff embraces this as a key part of player development. For those not in another sport, the team provides structured training opportunities to enhance strength, speed, and football IQ.
Chalk talks and position-specific training sessions to sharpen knowledge
Weight training four times per week to improve power
Speed, power, and agility sessions four times per week to build explosiveness
Building Team Chemistry
Team bonding is a huge priority, with monthly events designed to bring players closer together. This offseason has featured:
Three-on-three basketball tournaments, where teammates compete for bragging rights
Movie nights to relax and build camaraderie
A summer tradition called Dam Day at East Fork State Park, where players train by running the dam, followed by a team picnic featuring Coach Essig’s famous smashburgers
Returning Stars and Players to Watch
With only six seniors graduating, the Tigers bring back an experienced core ready to make an impact in 2025. Some of the key names to watch include:
Landen Schultian, senior wide receiver and defensive back, who was named Honorable Mention All-Ohio last season
Jaden Mersman, senior wide receiver and defensive back, is an All-Southwest Ohio District selection and a dynamic two-way playmaker
Eli Welch, senior offensive and defensive lineman, a four-year starter, and a leader in the weight room
Parker Harvey, sophomore defensive lineman, who stood out as a freshman and earned Honorable Mention All-SBAAC National Division
Landen Collins, sophomore linebacker, who was named Second Team All-SBAAC National Division as a freshman
Tristen Gerde, senior wide receiver and linebacker, is known for his hard work and perseverance as he steps into a key role this season
Logan Halcomb, sophomore defensive back, quarterback, and running back, is a versatile athlete expected to make an impact on both sides of the ball after a strong junior varsity season
Coaching and Strategic Approach
The Bethel-Tate coaching staff is committed to constant improvement. Coaches will be attending clinics and strategy sessions to bring the best approaches back to the team, focusing on:
Enhancing offensive and defensive schemes to fit personnel
Maximizing player versatility by utilizing athletes in multiple roles
Developing depth to ensure the team is prepared for the physical demands of the season
Community Involvement and Challenges Ahead
The team is deeply connected to the community, regularly participating in clean-up events and youth sports outreach. However, one of the biggest challenges ahead is funding. With potential increases in athletic fees, the program is actively exploring ways to ensure every athlete has the opportunity to compete.
Final Outlook
Despite financial hurdles, Bethel-Tate Football is built on hard work, experience, and a team-first mentality. With a strong core of returning players, an engaged coaching staff, and a supportive community, the 2025 season is shaping up to be a big step forward for the Tigers.
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