26 is the magic number for Jason Drengwitz and his Ironmen football team from Normal Community High School.

Last year, the Ironmen finished the regular season 9-0 but had a disappointing exit in its 25th straight playoff appereance. Coach Drengwitz explains his team got great experience between the COVID spring season and the return to a regual fall schedule last year.

Going through summer workouts and getting ready for the start of the fall season, Coach Drengwitz indicates the focus is always getting bigger, faster and stronger. Sometimes he may mix up the summer routine but for the most part it usually stays the same.

For those unfamiliar with Ironmen football, Coach Drengwitz says they try to take a balanced offensive approach with a balanced run and throwing the ball around. He feels the approach of the program has been consistent the last decade-plus.

Practices for the high school football season commence next Monday, Aug. 8 and then kickoff is Friday night, Aug. 26. Coach Drengwitz is looking forward to the strength of the special teams. He feels they have two of the better skill position players in the area.

The Ironmen play in the Big 12 Conference and will look to defend the conference title this year. Coach Drengwitz says it is going to be a very balanced conference that is going to offer a challenge each week. 

You can follow the Ironmen on Twitter at the handle @ironfootball and Coach Drengwitz notes the program is also working on establishing an Instagram account.