Preseason Coaches' Poll
1. Mullan
2. Clark Fork
3. Kootenai
Written by: Brandon Baney
When IdahoSports.com began preparing for the 2021 Statewide Football Preview, one of the most exciting discoveries was the fact that Kootenai High was going to field a team. The Warriors haven't played a complete schedule since 2018, when they went 4-4.
When Kootenai does take the field this fall, they will certainly look different. Longtime head coach and Athletic Director Doug Napierala retired this past offseason. In his place is new AD Nolan Kerby and new head football coach Jake Pfeiffer. Together, they have injected new enthusiasm into the Warriors program.
Because of where they are located, Kootenai's schedule features a lot of repeat opponents. In the three-team Scenic Idaho Conference, Kootenai, Mullan and Clark Fork will all play each other twice, making a total of four league games for each school.
Additionally, Kootenai will open their season at home against Wallace on August 27th, and travel to Wallace to return the favor on September 10th. Their schedule also includes playoff hopefuls Kendrick and Lakeside.
Overall, it may be tough for Kootenai to compete after a couple of dormant seasons. But it will be fun to watch this team develop over the course of what is hopefully a complete season.