08/24/2026
Introducing Our 2026 Necedah Football Team Captains
We are proud to announce our three captains for the 2026 season: Eli Horak, Zach Stridde, and Chris Francke.
Eli Horak is a four-year starter for us and truly a do-it-all player. Eli leads by example every time he steps on the field and has been someone we can count on year after year. Eli was part of my first group here when I came in as an assistant, and now in year two as head coach, he continues to be a constant in this program. His experience, toughness, and leadership have earned the respect of his teammates. Congratulations, Eli!
Zach Stridde is a first-year football player for us as a senior, but you would never know it. Zach hit the ground running in strength training this winter and carried that work ethic through the entire summer. He picked up the playbook quickly, never looked back, and has become a huge part of our football team. His willingness to learn, compete, and do whatever the team needs has made an immediate impact on our program. Congratulations, Zach!
Chris Francke is a senior and four-year member of our football program. Unfortunately, Chris missed his entire junior season after suffering a torn ACL, but that never stopped him from being part of this team. He never missed a game or practice and was always there supporting and cheering on his teammates. Chris continued putting in the work throughout his recovery, including being in the weight room all summer. He is still working his way back, and we are excited for the day he gets to step back onto the field with his teammates. Congratulations, Chris!
Being named a captain is about more than being a good football player. It is about commitment, leadership, toughness, and putting the team before yourself. Each of these three has taken a different path to get here, but all three have earned the respect of their teammates and coaches.
Congratulations to our 2026 Team Captains — Eli, Zach, and Chris!
