Indians Continue Rebuilding Football Program

The Poplar High School Indians would like to see better numbers, but the football team has several talented players on this season’s squad.

Coach Joe Hammer said the turnout is at 16 players at this point. He added that usually about 10 more students join the squad once school begins. School is scheduled to start on Thursday, Aug. 27, in Poplar.

Tyler Pribbernow, a senior, is one of the starters back for the Indians. He played tight end and defensive end last season but also saw some time at quarterback due to other injuries.

“He can pretty much play anywhere,” Hammer said of Pribbernow.

Another senior starter returning is Wilfred Lambert at wide receiver/linebacker. Preston Whitman returns for Poplar on the line.

“We had so many injuries last year,” Hammer explained.

After suffering a hand injury during pre-season practice last year, Inyan Growing Thunder is ready to have a strong campaign at quarterback for the Indians.

“He plays pretty physical,” the coach said of Growing Thunder. “He shows little or no fear on the football field.”

A big season is also expected from Logan Boadle at running back/linebacker. He missed last season with a knee injury.

Hammer noted that Poplar features a strong freshman group.

“We’re going to be rebuilding and are still looking to get the program where it needs to be at,” Hammer said.

The coach feels Red Lodge is the pre-season favorite in the district.

“Baker and Shepherd will be good. It’s a very tough district.”

The Indians will open their season in Harlem on Friday, Sept. 4. Poplar defeated Harlem last season.

“If we can finish the season with good number and low injuries, I will be happy,” Hammer said. “I would be real happy if we end up 4-4. That’s a good goal.”