Holland Reporter

Grand Valley State University’s football team will enter the 2025 season under the leadership of Scott Wooster, who is now in his third year as head coach. Wooster has guided the Lakers to a 22-4 record over two seasons, including two NCAA Division II playoff appearances and a Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) title.

The Lakers’ roster features 45 returning letterwinners and 11 transfers who have played key roles at their previous schools. The defense will be anchored by senior linebacker Anthony Cardamone and junior linebacker Jimmy Downs. Cardamone, considered an All-America candidate, returns for his third season as a starter. He is a two-time First-Team All-GLIAC selection and all-regional honoree, entering his senior year with 190 tackles, 28 tackles for loss totaling minus-148 yards, and 14.5 quarterback sacks for minus-121 yards. Downs is viewed as a postseason honor candidate after recording 44 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and eight quarterback hurries last season.

On offense, Grand Valley State brings back three starters on the offensive line, including All-America candidate Brett Weaver. Senior running back Syone Usma-Harper and junior wide receiver Kellen Reed also return to lead the offense.

Special teams remain strong with place kicker Mathew Bacik and punters Trace Hrgich and Evan Sundermann continuing to perform at a high level.