WEST DES MOINES, Iowa — Over the last couple seasons, the Valley Tigers have had to overcome slow starts, but each time they've managed to make their way back to the UNI-Dome.
Despite losing the first four games of the season last year, the Tigers made it all the way to the Class 5A state semifinals but fell to the state champ Southeast Polk Rams in overtime.
Just like in years past, Valley's first half of the schedule is loaded with tough opponents. While they proved they can stack wins with their backs against the wall, they want to get off to a better start.
"We were a good football team at the end, but we're not trying to have to make this midnight hour dash into the playoffs," said Valley head coach Gary Swenson "We want to get off to a good start."
Valley is returning eight starters this season. Senior offensive lineman Derek Ellens said their experience can be a big difference maker in getting off to a better start in 2024.
"Now we're seniors. Now, this is our year," said Ellens. "I think that we're very comprehensible and know what we're doing play wise. I just think once we get into the season more, we're going to be really smooth."
Valley will start the season off with a rematch of last year's state semifinal game at Southeast Polk Aug. 30 at 7 p.m.