March 19, 2024

Newton’s Montgomery signs to play William Penn football

Lucas Montgomery knows what he wants — a college education and an opportunity to play college football. Montgomery, a Newton High senior, found the place he can fulfill both of his ambitions.

Montgomery signed a letter of intent Friday to play football for William Penn University in Oskaloosa.

“William Penn is close to home, but it also gives me an opportunity for a good education. It had the courses I needed for the industrial technology degree I want,” Montgomery said. “They have an awesome football team, and I’ve always wanted to play college football.”

Montgomery became a steady force along the Newton High offensive line as a 6-foot-3-inch, 275-pound tackle. Newton stepped back into Iowa high school’s Class 4A football competition for the 2016 season.

The Cardinals had a strong season in the Class 4 District 4, finishing third with a 2-3 mark. Newton notched a 6-3 overall mark in its first season back in Class 4A football.

Montgomery, who earned district honorable mention honors, played a key role up front on the offensive line to help Newton lead District 4 in rushing — 2,472 yards on 429 rush attempts, which is a 5.8-yard per carry average. District champion West Des Moines Valley rushed for 2,171 yards on 333 carries (6.5 average).

“Being able to play just one way was important for our success. It allowed me to focus on becoming better at offensive tackle,” Montgomery said. “I’m looking to be able to play four more years of football while I get my education to prepare for life after football.”

William Penn is a NAIA program with Todd Hafner as head coach. The Statesmen went 7-4 overall in 2016 and 4-1 in Heart of America Athletic Conference play in Hafner’s 13th season.

Montgomery said he began playing football in fifth grade. He said he loves playing the game and is ready to do whatever the William Penn coaches want him to do to help the Statesmen team.

“I’m looking to get better at playing anywhere along the offensive line they need me. I hope it will be at tackle, but I’m excited about having the opportunity to play college football,” he said.

Montgomery is the son of Paul and Erin Montgomery of Newton.

Contact Jocelyn Sheets at
641-792-3121 ext. 6535
or jsheets@newtondailynews.com