Ryan Wynn and Ammar Banire Propel Oswego to Victory

Senior tight end Ryan Wynn made a significant impact during Oswego’s journey to the Class 8A state championship game. His efforts did not go unnoticed by those who matter most. “He started every game for us,” Panthers coach Brian Cooney commented on Wynn’s role. “Often, he was like a sixth offensive lineman, focused on blocking.”

Following the season, Wynn continued to develop his skills, securing three Division I scholarship offers, ultimately committing to South Dakota State in June. Standing at 6-foot-4 1/2 and weighing 225 pounds, Wynn showcased his potential on Friday night for host Oswego. The team won 44-22 against Neuqua Valley, signaling that Wynn’s best performances are yet to come.

Wynn’s contribution included three catches totaling 108 yards. He made a notable 51-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter from senior quarterback Drew Kleinhans. This pass resulted in one of four lead changes in a tightly contested first half.

“Last year I made six catches, with a season total under 100 yards,” Wynn said. “I played a blocking role because of teammates Teddy Manikas and Mariano Velasco at wide receiver.” Wynn aims to demonstrate his capabilities further this season and validate South Dakota State’s decision to recruit him.

Ammar Banire, a junior running back, praised Wynn’s progress, “He’s been working hard, improving athleticism and strength in the offseason. He’s ready for bigger accomplishments.”

Banire himself shined on Friday night. He achieved 276 yards and five touchdowns for Oswego (1-0). Banire ran for 235 yards and scored TDs from distances of 19, 93, 62, and 12 yards. He also caught a screen pass, advancing 41 yards for another touchdown.

Kleinhans completed 5 of 10 passes for 156 yards, tallying two touchdowns. Meanwhile, senior fullback Graham Schwab added 119 yards on nine carries for the team.

Complementing a strong offensive line, seniors Alejandro Acosta, Gabriel Guzman, Nathan Overstreet, and Ryan Stork were involved alongside Wynn, Schwab, and senior wide receivers Jalen Walker and Caleb Miller.

“There were blocks up front, but downfield, it gets challenging,” Cooney explained. “Out-of-frame blocks might invite penalties, but we executed well.”

Wynn described his enthusiasm for supporting teammate Ammar, “I love blocking for him. I ensure opponents are sealed off, and Ammar reads blocks well. He’s fast, too.”

For Neuqua (0-1), junior receiver Will Kalish stood out with 174 yards and three touchdowns on eight catches. This performance came from senior quarterback Drake Mennecke.

Cooney expressed frustration with Kalish’s impact, “He was relentless. We didn’t assess their punt formation until late, which was aggravating. Our defense needed improvement.”

Wynn’s development owes partly to his heritage; his father Adam is 6-6 and played baseball at Oswego. Wynn continues to work rigorously on his physical development.

Ryan shared his training regimen, “I trained about 14 times a week, lifting at school and attending speed sessions at Acceleration Sports Performance.”

Coach Cooney acknowledged Wynn’s dedication, “His improvement comes from consistent effort. He grew out of uncertainty and aligned with our offensive scheme. This potential was evident in Friday’s performance.”

Receiving yards and successful blocks increased opportunities for Banire (No. 2) and Schwab (No. 22) during the game.