The Independence Patriots are getting ready for the 2026 season, and Keith Thompson caught up with Head Football Coach and Athletic Director John H. Lilly to talk about what lies ahead.
Coach Lilly discusses Friday night’s home opener against the Armstrong River Hawks, the progress he saw during the Patriots’ scrimmages, a roster that includes plenty of new faces, and a schedule that will send Independence on nearly 2,000 miles of travel this season.
They also talk about the retirement of the No. 3 jersey, the opportunities these road games are giving Independence players, and the tremendous support the Patriots receive from the Independence community.
As Coach Lilly puts it, with so many unknowns surrounding this season, the Patriots’ approach is simple: “Be the best us.”
Check out the full interview with Keith Thompson and Coach John H. Lilly.
