A year ago, the Hope College football team had relatively little experience at the quarterback position.
Freshman Zach Trainor ended up taking most of the snaps, and junior Ben Wellman was also used a lot.
After an 8-2 season, both are back, improved and ready to lead the Flying Dutchmen to an MIAA title.
“We’ve never had it so good at the quarterback position,” Hope coach Peter Stuursma said. “We have two guys who are in charge as starters. I’ve never felt like that in the fall. We have two guys who can do that. They can both throw. Ben is probably a better runner, but Zach can run.”
“They both have confidence in the offense and both have command of the offense. I like where they are and where we are with them.”
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Last year, both played quarterback in all 10 games. Trainor threw 97 of 182 passes and 13 touchdowns. Wellman threw 35 of 57 passes and 4 touchdowns.
On the ground, Trainor rushed for 304 yards on 82 carries with three touchdowns. Wellman had 24 carries for 130 yards and three touchdowns.
“They’re both so good. A lot of teams don’t have that. I’m excited to see how they take the next step,” said Hope offensive player Dylan Clem.
Trainor said the experience of one season at Hope changed his mindset for his second season.
“I’m super blessed. I feel more settled and better in the system this year. I’m excited for this year and I think we can do some special things,” Trainor said. “It helps me because Ben is such a good person. He’s a baller and it’s a lot of fun. It’s friendly competition to see who can throw more yards or touchdowns. I think it’s good for the team, too.”
“I feel much calmer and more relaxed on the field this year – really comfortable. Last year we were young and had experience, but everyone has gained match practice and we can be more dynamic out there.”
Wellman said the team-first attitude of both players makes the fight more fun and less stressful.
“We compete hard, but we have a great relationship. We cheer each other on, which makes it even better,” Wellman said. “I think I’ve really improved at seeing everything in front of me, staying calm and being the leader that I am. That comes with time and age.”
So how will the quarterback situation turn out? The Hope team will also use this training time to improve.
“How do we get better every day?” Stuursma asked. “How can we realistically do that? It’s the progress in the fall – that’s what’s really important.”
Contact sports editor Dan D’Addona at Dan.D’[email protected]. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter @DanDAddona or Facebook @HollandSentinelSportp.
