The 2026 season represents one final opportunity for Kapaun Mount Carmel’s Pete Keller to compete alongside his friends and help the Crusaders accomplish something special.
“The thing I am most excited for this season is the opportunity to play one last time with my friends and do something that hasn’t been seen at Kapaun for a long time,” Keller said.
The senior linebacker enters the season looking to build on a productive 2025 campaign. Keller, a 5-foot-11, 210-pound linebacker, recorded 79 tackles, six tackles for loss, two sacks, one interception and a defensive touchdown last season. He also contributed offensively with 114 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Keller and the Crusaders have spent the offseason preparing for the challenges ahead through a demanding schedule of workouts and competition. The team has focused on building strength, developing chemistry and improving through game-like situations.
“During this offseason, we have been preparing for this season by lifting at 6 a.m. Monday-Thursday, competing in 7on7 against other schools, throwing and running routes in our free time, and hosting our own contact camps,” Keller said.
Entering his final season, Keller has identified areas where he can continue to grow as a player. He is focused on improving his ability to create pressure and make plays defensively.
“An area of my game that I want to improve is my stunting and rushing ability,” Keller said. “To improve this I have worked on my speed, agility, timing and communication with my teammates.”
While individual improvement remains a priority, Keller’s focus is centered on the success of the team. He believes daily preparation and consistency will be key as Kapaun looks to compete for another championship.
“My individual goal for this season is to give everything I have for this team and do my job the best I can,” Keller said. “Our team goal right now is to win every day, whether that’s at a drill or an entire practice. We want to get better every day.”
The Crusaders’ ultimate goal is to capture another state championship and prove last season’s success was just the beginning.
“Our ultimate goal, however, is to win another state title and to prove that last year was not a fluke,” Keller said.
To nominate someone for a story email [email protected]
