Last season, the Industrial Cobras had a rough transition after moving from 3A-DI to 3A-DII. Industrial went from making deep playoff runs to falling to 2-8. The predistrict season began with the Cobras losing by three to Edna (in overtime) and again losing by three to Yoakum in game two. Industrial went on to lose all the predistrict games, although the Tidehaven loss was again only by seven.
Following a coaching change to begin district play, Industrial won their first two district games, but that was as good as the season would get.
Entering the 2025 season, Industrial has brought in a new head coach, Matthew Luddeke, with the plan of returning to the playoffs.
“We had a chance to start (building relationships with the athletes) in January with some new staff,” Luddeke said. “We’ve brought other new guys on and these kids know we’re here to work and they know the expectations of our staff. They have bought in and are ready to make a statement.”
Once again, the Cobras will face the difficult predistrict, followed by an almost- as-difficult district schedule. #5 Edna begins the season, followed by #15 Goliad, then #18 Yoakum, followed by #2 (in 2A-DII) Shiner.
Luddeke also knows what needs to be done to turn those close losses into wins.
“(We have to) learn to finish games,” Luddeke explained. “It starts in practice. Practice has to be as close to game speed as possible and practice has to be up tempo from start to finish. When you learn how to finish practice everyday, the games slow down and become easier. You get out of your preparation what you put into it.”
The district schedule contains #2 Tidehaven, #16 Van Vleck, #25 Rice, and #11 East Bernard.
“Given we have one of the toughest schedules, we are ready to take on the challenge,” Colt Charbula said. “If we take a close call, as a team, we will maintain a positive attitude and focus on aggressive practices as the season continues.”
The Cobras return four starters on both sides of the ball, but the non-starters last season had plenty of appearances and all should be able to fill the gaps.
“Guys are stepping up just as we expected,” Luddeke explained. “I’m excited to start the season with some depth. We have a strong senior class, some talented juniors and a big sophomore class who can help us get this thing rolling. It will truly be a team effort.”
The offensive line, who are instrumental in making the offense go, are also making progress in jelling together as one unit.
“We are all learning new schemes together and we work hard as a team to make sure everybody is on the same page on our plays, no matter what age player you are,” Garrett Kolodziejczyk said. “To keep our quarterbacks safe we always make sure to maintain aggressive blocks and pulls, ensuring we all work in unison is our top priority. Our offensive line is not to be overlooked and we are ready to take on any team that stands against us.”
Industrial will have their first shot to see how they are coming along when they open the season at Edna on August 29.
