The Bernice MacNaughton Highlanders enter the 2026 season with a young program that gained valuable experience through adversity last year and believes those lessons will pay dividends moving forward.

While the results on the scoreboard did not always go their way in 2025, the Highlanders coaching staff views last season as a critical learning experience for both players and coaches. With many athletes new to football or still developing their understanding of the game, the season provided an important introduction to the demands of high school football.

From classroom work and practice preparation to offseason training and game-day execution, players learned firsthand what it takes to compete at a high level.

“Many of our players last year were learning what it took to play high school football,” the coaching staff explained. “The season presented to many of our players what it took to be great and the type of grit and determination it takes to operate at our highest level.”

Those lessons have become a source of motivation as the Highlanders prepare for a new season.

Leading the way will be a group of Grade 12 veterans expected to play key roles on both sides of the football.

On offense, keep an eye on Jamieson Eastwick and Aiden Gaudet, two senior leaders who will be counted on to help drive the Highlanders attack.

Defensively, Alec Donaher and Daylen Beaty are expected to anchor the unit and provide leadership as they enter their final high school season.

The coaching staff believes all four players are prepared to lead by example.

“These players are entering their Grade 12 seasons and ready to perform and lead to the best of their abilities.”

While the seniors will provide leadership, the future of the program also appears promising. Coaches came away from training camp encouraged by the potential shown by this year’s rookie class.

Rather than singling out individual newcomers, the staff praised the entire group for embracing the challenges that come with varsity football.

“We are excited about all of our rookies,” the coaches said. “There are several rookies on both sides of the ball with tons of upside. The future of MacNaughton football is bright and this incoming rookie class is cause for enthusiasm.”

The Highlanders also emphasized that the program’s success extends far beyond the players and coaches seen on Friday nights. The team credits a dedicated group of volunteers for helping make the program possible both on and off the field.

As the season begins, the message to the Highlanders community is simple: support a program that is working hard to build something meaningful.

“You’re going to get our best this season,” the coaches said. “There are some exciting players, great coaches and tireless volunteers that make everything we do on and off the field possible. Come out and support the team and see what we are building here for yourself.”

The Highlanders hope their commitment to physical and mental toughness, discipline and continuous improvement will be evident every time they take the field in 2026.

Players to Watch

• Jamieson Eastwick (OFF)
• Aiden Gaudet (OFF)
• Alec Donaher (DEF)
• Daylen Beaty (DEF)

Team Identity for 2026

• Building from valuable lessons learned in 2025
• Strong emphasis on grit, discipline and toughness
• Veteran senior leadership on both sides of the ball
• Promising rookie class with long-term upside
• Supported by dedicated coaches, volunteers and the Highlanders community

Source: Exclusive interview conducted by Q103 with the Bernice MacNaughton Highlanders football program.