Highly Motivated.

That’s the motto of the Speedway Sparkplugs heading into the 2025 football season under head coach Shane Clampitt, following a 4-6 campaign last year.

After opening 2024 with a loss to Class A semi-state finalist South Putnam, the Sparkplugs bounced back and surged to a 3-1 start. But a three-game losing streak late in the year derailed their momentum, leading Clampitt and his staff to regroup and refocus all efforts on a fresh start. That journey begins August 22 with a season-opening road trip to Heritage Christian.

“I’m really excited about this group of seniors and the start of a new season,” Clampitt told Indiana Preps. “While last year didn’t end the way we hoped, it’s been a huge motivator for our players. They’ve responded with a strong offseason—working hard, holding each other accountable, and showing a real commitment to getting better. We’re taking the lessons from last season and building on them, but this is a new year and a fresh opportunity for our team to define its own identity.”

Offseason Changes Paying Off

In preparation for a schedule loaded with early tests—including Northview, Lawrenceburg, and Tri-West—Clampitt and his staff brought in a new strength coach, a move already showing tangible results.

“It’s been a great offseason,” Clampitt said. “We brought in a new strength coach who’s done a tremendous job working with our players, and the energy and focus have been outstanding. Our main emphasis this summer has been building a stronger team culture—putting others first, holding each other accountable, and truly caring about one another.

We want to represent our school and community the right way, both on and off the field. We know we may not be the biggest or fastest team out there, so our edge has to come from doing the little things right—and that’s exactly where we’ve put our focus.”

Playmakers Return Across the Field

As in years past, Clampitt’s squad won’t be short on talent. Leading the way is senior Dawson Ott, a versatile two-way force at linebacker and offensive line. Other key contributors expected to have a major impact include:

  • Lucas DeVault – Senior WR/S
  • Mazeed Ishola – Junior WR/S
  • Mamadou Diallo – Senior RB/LB
  • Correy Midgett – Senior OL/DL
  • Amari Forbes – Sophomore RB

Clampitt emphasized that player leadership and unity will be key to getting the most out of a roster filled with both experience and emerging talent.

Eyes Set on Growth

With fall camp underway and energy levels running high, Clampitt is keeping the focus narrow: daily improvement.

“We know we’ve got a tough schedule, especially early on, but we believe that by the time September and October roll around, we can be a very strong football team,” Clampitt said. “To get there, we’ll need to stay healthy, continue to grow together, and get consistent play at the quarterback position. If we do those things, we feel like we can compete with anyone on our schedule.”

With renewed purpose and a chip on their shoulder, Speedway enters 2025 not just ready to compete—but ready to rise.