BECOME EPIC: EPIC7 MidWest Tryouts
By Wesley White
A Great Day to Become Epic
One of the longest-running, most successful, and historically talented 7v7 programs in Kansas City, EPIC7 MidWest, hosted tryouts for its 2026 season roster on December 20–21 at Oak Park High School in Kansas City, Missouri.
Since its inaugural 2015–2016 season, EPIC7 has been a cornerstone of the Kansas City and Midwest 7v7 landscape—helping shape the culture, growth, and standard of excellence within the sport. Year after year, EPIC7 has remained highly competitive while serving as the benchmark that many regional programs aspire to reach.
That longevity and success have only been possible by doing things the right way—ethically, professionally, and always with the athletes’ best interests at the forefront.
After graduating several high-profile Power 4 Division I athletes from last season’s roster, EPIC7 appears primed for an even more athletic and dynamic 2026 campaign, featuring elite talent from across the Kansas City metro area.
On December 21, EPIC 7 head coach Justin McCay invited DRSportz and The Platform to attend tryouts. After witnessing the talent level on display, both outlets are extremely excited to watch the 2026 EPIC7 MidWest team compete this spring with what is projected to be a loaded roster.
Standout Performers
QB Jack Clemens (@Jack_Clemens8) – Oak Park HS
A 6’3”, 190-pound 2028 quarterback, Clemens showcased natural, God-given football ability throughout the tryout. With continued success on Friday nights and national exposure through EPIC7, Clemens is on track to become one of Missouri’s top quarterback recruits in his class.
Joining Clemens at quarterback will be 2027 Jacob Lieberknecht of Richmond High School. One of the most polished quarterbacks in the Midwest for the 2027 class, Lieberknecht is poised to become EPIC7's next standout at the position, drawing comparisons to former EPIC7 QB Rocco Marriott. College coaches and scouts are eager to watch his development this spring.
Additional standout athletes included:
- 2027 WR Traice Collier (@TraiceCollier) – Raytown HS
6’3”, 200 lbs; explosive playmaker training with Nebraska Cornhuskers coach Jamar Mozee - 2027 WR/DB Elijah Endsley (@EEndsley3) – Pembroke Hill HS
- 2028 DB Benjamin Hayes (@thereal_ben22) – Rockhurst HS
- 2028 WR CJ Ihekona (@CjIhekona5) – Raytown HS
- 2027 WR/DB Damean Hadley (@DameanHadley) – Liberty North HS
- 2028 TE Max Trillo (@MaxTreeYo) – Lee’s Summit HS
- 2027 LB Carlos Baskerville (@CarlosBaskerv4) – Platte County HS
Widely regarded as the top pass-defending linebacker in the Midwest - 2027 DB IsReal “Izzy” Nelson (@israelnelson_9) – Raytown HS
- 2027 WR Xavier Salinas – Lee’s Summit HS
- 2027 WR/CB Malikiah Tharp – Richmond HS
- 2027 WR Ashton Patton – Olathe South HS
- 2027 DB Andrew Parrish – Platte County HS
- 2027 WR Harrison Perkins – Lee’s Summit West HS
Expect a breakout 7v7 season
2027 WR Reggie Nelson – North Kansas City HS
Poised to make a strong case as one of the Midwest’s top wide receivers
With elite coaching, a proven track record, and one of the most talented rosters in the region, EPIC7 MidWest once again looks ready to set the standard for 7v7 excellence in 2026.