By Greg James | [email protected] 

The West Jordan Jaguars football team is starting its second year under head Carson Mund. The team is coming together despite a late start and several restrictions.

“Summer workouts have been good,” Mund said. “We got into our stuff late because of COVID. We got going on June 8. The kids are showing up and getting ready so that when August comes, we are ready to play.”

The Jaguars are scheduled to open their season Aug. 14 at East High School. The Leopards will be a formidable opponent to begin the season with. East finished its season last year by losing in the state championship semifinals.

“Opening against East is going to be tough, but I think we are preparing in the right way,” Mund said.

As Mund began his tenure at West Jordan, he emphasized the importance of a strong running game. Last season the backfield combined for nearly 900 yards and more than 10 touchdowns. 

“The biggest thing right now, this season is bringing the culture,” Mund said. “We want the tradition. West Jordan has had lots of success, and we want to have that continued success. Our D-Line is going to be our strength. We have three really good guys up front. I think they can match up with anyone in the state. Our team will go as they go.”

The defensive line includes two seniors: Syrus Webster, who stands 6 feet 4 inches and 245 pounds, and Junior Kaufusi, who is 6-foot-1-inch and  265 pounds. Junior Aleka Leausa is 6-foot-1-inch tall and 290 pounds. 

At quarterback, the Jaguars will rely on returning junior Brandon Farmer. He gained valuable experience last season as a sophomore. He threw for more than 1,600 yards and 14 touchdowns. Mund said his 51% completion percentage is something he can improve on.

“He (Farmer) will be back and take the lead of our offense,” Mund said. “He is the do-everything guy on the team. We rely on him as a team guy and great leader. I think he throws the ball really well and knows our offense. He’s a great all-around player for us.” 

Last season, the Jaguars finished the season with a 5-6 overall record. They scored an average of 24.6 points per game and allowed 21. They lost in the first round of the state playoffs to Jordan 20-17. 

West Jordan competes in Region 2. 

“We have some great teams in our region,” Mund said. “Kearns is always good, and Granger and West are both on the rebound. The teams are getting better and better every year. It is disappointing with the RPI that region games are not as important. A region champion should get a reward like a first-round bye.”

They are scheduled to host their first home game Aug. 21 against Riverton. The Utah High School Activities Association initially voted to continue with fall sports as scheduled but plan to review that decision as the season approaches (after press deadline).

“We have had kids that are very cautious,” Mund said. “We started with over 110 kids and are now down to 70 or 80. We need every kid out. We are doing our best to make sure the kids are safe. We want every kid in West Jordan to play football. We would have a team of 200 kids if necessary.”