Wittenberg names four captains for 2021 season

“It’s a huge honor,” said Burkey, a graduate of St. Charles Prep in Bexley. “I’m honored to be able to represent this team. I feel like it’s a special team since we’ve put in so much work together. I mean when you think about it, it’s been almost two offseasons, right?”

Burkey started two years ago as a sophomore. He and the entire team didn’t get to play in 2020 because of the pandemic. They will open the 2021 season against SUNY Cortland (N.Y.) at noon Saturday at Edwards-Maurer Field in Springfield.

“As a team, I think we’re ready to go,” said Shelley, a graduate of Bethel High School in Tipp City who was a first-year starter as a sophomore in 2018. “During the spring, it was pretty heartbreaking. We were the only team in Wittenberg that didn’t get to play. As far as being a captain. I’m ready to take on more responsibility.”

Wittenberg’s first opponent, Cortland, also didn’t play in 2020. Two years ago, it was 8-3. It has reached the Division III playoffs five times in the last 20 years, most recently in 2015.

Wittenberg and Cortland have never played. The Tigers will open next season at Cortland.

A large majority of Wittenberg’s roster will experience a game day for the first time Saturday.

“Hopefully, they see how much fun it can be really in a college setting,” Burkey said, “and just realize the importance of it and what an honor it is to represent Wittenberg.”

Burkey missed hitting opposing offensive players the most last fall. For Kayser, a graduate of Notre Dame High School in Portsmouth, it was the competition.

“It’s hard to be competitive when you’re practicing against the same people every single day,” he said. “It’s hard to keep that competitive edge.”

Kayser’s brother Jack was also a captain as a senior in 2017, which was Sam’s freshman season.

“I’m trying to carry on the tradition of being a good leader,” Sam said, “and being that leader that can always be counted on.”

Jewsikow, a Northmont graduate, is the team’s top returning tackler. The team’s top tackler that season, Jonathan Seay, wore No. 33. Jewsikow now that wears that number. He’s the latest member of the 33 Club. He learned of that honor on a Zoom call with past members of the club: Zach Hurtt; Dustin Holmes; Terrance Crowe; and Seay.

“The great leader, great linebacker, a great vocal guy for the team they pretty much induct him into that 33 Club,” Jewsikow said. “They are big shoes to fill, but I’m ready to do it.”

Jewsikow missed the brotherhood of not playing with his teammates in games last fall and the mental and physical side of the game.

“I think it’s the best game in the world,” he said.

Ticket information: Wittenberg has moved all ticketing operations online and will use HomeTown Ticketing. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for children 18 and under and senior citizens 65 and older.

“All tickets must be purchased online in advance of each game as there will be no physical ticket sales on site for home football games,” Wittenberg announced this week. “Head to wittenbergtigers.com for more information.”