In 2025, a Santo team with just four seniors fought through one of the state’s toughest Class 2A districts to snap a two-year playoff drought.

With the bulk of that roster back and call-ups from a 10-0 junior varsity team ready to fill what few holes they have, the Wildcats have set their goals higher this year.

SHS, which brings back eight starters both ways among 21 returning lettermen, feels it has the talent, experience and depth to compete near the top of a new district that features Waco-area toughies Crawford and Mart. And coach Devon Mann has loaded up his nondistrict schedule in hopes that it will prepare his team for a deep playoff run when the time comes.