GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) -- The countdown to kickoff is on, and the Union Redhawks football team has something to prove this fall. Under the leadership of Head Coach Curtis Andrews—now entering his second year at the helm—the program is aiming to take a major step forward at all levels. Backed by focused leadership and an energized roster, the Redhawks are padding up for a season to remember.
“This season, my biggest expectation is for us to start and finish strong,” Andrews said. “I want us to stick together as a group. Win, lose, or draw, we want to stay positive.”
Strong Coaches, Sharper Focus
This year marks a new chapter for Union Football with the addition of several new coaches across all levels of the program. They are joined by key returning coaches who provide valuable continuity and leadership to the team. The expanded staff is already making a difference, bringing a renewed focus to player development and tighter collaboration from youth through varsity.
“We have more help this year, and we’re clicking well,” said Andrews. “We’ve got coaches doing a good job working with our position groups. Our middle school coaches are attached to our hip too, which is a good thing for the whole program.”
The increased support at the youth and middle school levels also reflects a clear, purposeful commitment to long-term development. With young athletes learning the same philosophy as the high school teams, the entire Redhawks pipeline is more aligned than ever. By the time players reach the varsity level, they already understand the culture, expectations, and playbook. And with many of the high school athletes mentoring younger players, the entire football program is even more unified.
Focused on Growth
Building on the experiences of last season, this year’s group is committed to setting a new standard for Redhawks football. Returning senior leaders—including Wadaase McSauby, Joshua Garcia-Guzman, Justin Hilliard, and Drew Valdez—anchor a team that is blending experience with rising young talent.
“The team’s goal is to make it to playoffs. My personal goal is to make all-conference,” said Garcia-Guzman.
For junior Jayshawn Craig, the focus is on results. “Teamwise, I want to have a winning record this year. We need eleven men on the field who work hard every play. Individually, my goal is to get stronger. If I work hard enough, I know I can attain that.”
Junior Parker Bitson, even while managing an injury, remains committed to improving his team. “I continue to show up and be a leader,” Bitson said. “I’m conditioning with the team, and I’m lifting as I can. I’m trying to help the underclassmen a lot too, especially when we’re doing walkthroughs. I understand where they’re at, having been there before, and I want to help them along.”
Young Stars on the Rise
Union’s varsity team is getting a boost from an impressive freshman class. Rising stars like Chance Hammingh and Theo Weston are already making an impact on the field.
“I’m going to be a freshman on varsity, so it’s a big jump from middle school,” said Weston. “But I work hard, and I believe in this team.”
Hammingh, stepping into the quarterback role, understands his responsibilities. “I plan to do my job, get the ball to others, make smart decisions. I want to give my teammates opportunities to make plays. As the quarterback, it’s my job to take care of the ball.”
These young players have shown maturity beyond their years, with coaches praising their work ethic, composure, and willingness to learn. Their early impact reflects a larger trend within the program: players at every level are stepping up.
Hard Work Paying Off
Off-season training has seen high turnout and strong effort from players across the board, and the results are showing—in chemistry, consistency, and confidence.
“Team chemistry is really good,” said Coach Andrews. “The kids are locked in. They’re competing with each other in productive ways, and they’ve got a great brotherhood going on. They’re ready to get to it.”
That energy and commitment have been consistent from 7th through 12th grade. “The numbers have been great,” Andrews added. “Kids are showing up with good attitudes and putting in the work.”
Players are feeling that energy and momentum, too.
“The energy is intense on both sides of the ball,” said Justin Hilliard. “People are staying consistent and showing up.”
Senior Wadaase McSauby credits the off-season work for his own transformation: “Physically and mentally I’m tougher. I’m more disciplined than last year.”
Looking Ahead
After a summer packed with weightlifting, conditioning, team camps, and 7-on-7 competitions, excitement is building for the season opener.
This year, the Redhawks face a crowded, football-only OK Green Conference that features three teams ranked in the top 25 statewide, making every game a test and an opportunity. It’s a challenging schedule, but one the team is ready to embrace for the invaluable experience and exposure it provides.
“I’m most looking forward to the first game. We want to show everyone we’re able to win,” said Drew Valdez.
Junior Kingston Jones echoed that sentiment. “We are going to go out and compete every game. Fans should come out and watch because we’re going to put on a show.”
Whether you’re a fan, a scholar, or part of the community, there’s never been a better time to pack the stands and support the Redhawks under Friday night lights this fall.
