Ask Vernon high school football coaches Sean Smith and Mike Scheller to talk about their players, and they’ll respond with: “How much time do you have?”
Smith, from Vernon Secondary, and Scheller, of the crosstown Fulton Maroons, continue to develop quality players year after year after year.
That’s evidenced in 2025 by having four players from the two teams selected to the B.C. AA Senior Varsity All-Star team, including Player of the Year, Vernon quarterback Ayden McDonald.
The signal-caller is joined on the provincial squad by teammates Owen Carpenter, an offensive lineman, and Josh Vandenberg from the defensive line.
Fulton’s Caden O’Dwyer was named as a provincial all-star team running back. He and Vandenberg still have one year of school eligibility left.
“I couldn’t be prouder of these three players and what they’ve accomplished this season,” said Smith of his trio on the B.C. squad. “It’s rewarding to see that coaches across the province recognized the same qualities I’ve seen in them every day. Each of these athletes has the physical ability to compete at the highest level, but what truly sets them apart is their relentless work ethic and outstanding attitude.
“Those qualities are what make them not just great players, but elite leaders in our sport.”
McDonald has truly earned the honour of being named the AA Player of the Year, says his head coach. He has been a standout performer for the Cats in all three phases of the game, and his impact, said Smith, cannot be overstated.
“When Ayden stepped into the role of starting quarterback this season, I expected him to excel as a running quarterback, but he exceeded all expectations by developing into a true dual-threat leader,” he said. “His growth as a passer and as a complete quarterback has been remarkable.
“Off the field, Ayden’s work ethic and dedication to the Panthers over the past five years have set the standard for excellence.
“This award is a testament to his commitment and I couldn’t be happier to see him recognized.”
McDonald is the sixth Panther in the last nine years to earn AA Player of the Year.
“That’s not only a huge accomplishment for Ayden, but also a proud moment for our entire organization,” said Smith.
If offensive lineman could be looked at as Players of the Year, Carpenter would be a lock.
He was a unanimous choice among voters as the top offensive lineman in B.C., a distinction he also earned last season. In fact, said Smith, Carpenter’s talent was evident as early as Grade 10, when he was voted a provincial all-star before the rules prevented younger players from receiving the award.
“Owen brings exceptional leadership, elite play, and the ability to make critical line calls that anchor our offence,” said Smith. “While his performance on the field has consistently been at an all-star level, what stands out most is his growth as a leader, and his unwavering dedication off the field. Owen’s commitment and impact have set a standard that elevates everyone around him.”
Vandenberg’s performance in 2025, helping the Panthers stay unbeaten and – thus far – into the AA provincial semifinals, makes it clear why he was chosen a B.C. all-star.
Vandenberg has been a relentless force off the edge, consistently disrupting opposing offences and leading the Panthers team in tackles – a rare feat for a defensive end.
He was a unanimous choice for this award, and his dominance was on full display in Friday’s quarterfinal game (41-0 win over Nechako Valley of Vanderhoof Nov. 14), where he delivered one of the best performances by any Panther defensive end: 14 tackles, two quarterback sacks, four tackles for loss, and a fumble recovery.
“His unmatched motor and ability to get to the ball carrier and quarterback set him apart — and he’s only in Grade 11,” beamed Smith. “Josh’s hard work in the off-season has paid off in a big way, and this recognition is a testament to his dedication and elite play.”
Across town, O’Dwyer had a tremendous 2025 season for the Maroons.
He’s been the team’s leading rusher the past three seasons, starting for the varsity squad in both Grade 9 and 10.
“He is a tough inside-the-tackles runner, with good vision and contact balance,” said coach Scheller. “He runs with great power. He also has that extra gear that allows him to break very long runs once he hits open space.”
The game means a lot to O’Dwyer, who played provincially over the summer for B.C.’s U17 squad. And for Scheller, that makes him a pleasure to coach.
“He works very hard every day to get better, and attends all kinds of camps,” said Scheller. “I am very sure he would like to thank his O-line for their great blocks all season. Caden is a super kid who is very deserving of making the AA provincial team.”
The Panthers’ quest for a provincial title continues Sunday, Nov. 23, at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver as the top-ranked, undefeated VSS team takes on the fifth-ranked Mt. Douglas Rams of Victoria. Kickoff is 12 p.m.
The other semifinal under the dome Sunday has the No.2-seeded Argyle Pipers of North Vancouver playing the upstart seventh-seeded South Kamloops Titans. The two winners will meet for the provincial AA championship Saturday, Nov. 29.