After a standout season a year ago at Salina Sacred Heart, Noah Hines is looking forward to a new challenge and the opportunity to compete at a higher level with his teammates at Salina South.
Hines, who earned first-team all-league and first-team all-state honors last season, is focused on helping the Cougars succeed while continuing to improve his game.
“I’m just excited to play with these boys and see what we can do,” Hines said. “Ready to compete at a high level and hopefully succeed with my brothers alongside. I’m also excited for the atmospheres that we will play in this upcoming season.”
Last season, Hines was one of the top receivers in the state, recording 38 receptions for 738 yards and 11 touchdowns. He averaged 20.7 yards per catch and 82 yards per game while earning recognition as a first-team all-state receiver in Class 1A and on the all-state non-senior team for Classes 3-1A.
As he prepares for the upcoming season at the 5A level, Hines has spent his offseason building chemistry with his teammates and sharpening his skills.
“I’ve just been working out at the field with the team trying to build chemistry and learn the signals for our plays,” Hines said. “I’ve been training with trainers and going to team camps and scrimmages. Also going to morning weights.”
One of Hines’ main areas of focus has been improving as a route runner and becoming a more dependable target for quarterback Izzy Telles.
“Just my route running and getting used to better coverage at the 5A level and creating more separation,” Hines said. “Also wanting to improve my catch radius for my QB and become a more reliable target for him.”
Hines has also spent time working with Telles to develop timing and consistency before the season begins.
“I’m just working with trainers and going to the field with QB Izzy Telles and just getting used to his ball speed and working on our timing on routes,” Hines said.
While individual goals remain important, Hines said his biggest goal is helping Salina South win.
“Just making big plays for the team in big moments,” Hines said. “Having a winning season. Make a deep playoff run. I also want to make all-state again like last year and all-league. Mostly just want to win with the guys around me and have fun during our time together this season.”
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