Gretna High School, located in Gretna, Nebraska, has developed into one of the state’s premier high school athletic programs. Known for its strong performances in a variety of sports, Gretna High has built a legacy of excellence, sportsmanship, and community pride. Over the years, the Dragons have achieved significant success in football, soccer, basketball, and other sports, consistently competing at a high level in Nebraska high school athletics.
Early Development and Growth
Gretna High School, which serves the growing suburb of Gretna just outside of Omaha, has seen rapid development over the past few decades. As Gretna transformed from a small town into one of Nebraska’s fastest-growing communities, its high school athletic program expanded and evolved, keeping pace with the town’s growth.
In the earlier years of Gretna High’s athletic history, the school competed in smaller classifications due to its modest population. Early Gretna teams were known for their competitiveness and grit, but the school’s athletic program began gaining statewide recognition as the town’s population increased.
Football: A Tradition of Success
Football has been the crown jewel of Gretna High School’s athletic program. Over the past two decades, the Dragons have established themselves as one of Nebraska’s top football programs, particularly at the Class B level.
Gretna football teams have earned numerous district titles and made deep runs in the Nebraska state playoffs. In 2013, the team reached its first Class B state championship game but fell short of winning the title. However, that season was a turning point for the program, signaling Gretna’s rise as a football powerhouse.
The Dragons’ football program reached the pinnacle of success in 2021 when they captured their first-ever Class A state championship after moving up to compete in Nebraska’s highest classification. Under the leadership of head coach Mike Kayl, Gretna defeated Omaha Westside 7-3 in a thrilling championship game, capping an undefeated season and solidifying their place among the elite high school football programs in Nebraska.
Key players from that team, including standout quarterback Zane Flores, who later committed to play Division I football at Oklahoma State University, played a pivotal role in the school’s historic victory. The 2021 season remains a defining moment in Gretna High School’s athletic history.
Soccer: A Powerhouse in Boys’ and Girls’ Soccer
Gretna High School’s soccer program is another area where the Dragons have excelled. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams have been dominant in Nebraska high school soccer, consistently competing for state championships and producing talented players who go on to play at the collegiate level.
The girls’ soccer program, in particular, has been a consistent force. Gretna’s girls have captured multiple Class B and Class A state championships, becoming one of the top soccer programs in the state. Their state titles in 2013, 2017, and 2021 exemplify the program’s sustained excellence. Known for a high level of skill, strong team chemistry, and disciplined coaching, the Gretna girls’ soccer team is a model of success in Nebraska athletics.
The boys’ soccer program has also achieved significant success, regularly competing at a high level and making deep runs in the state tournament. Both programs have contributed to Gretna’s growing reputation as a sports powerhouse.
Basketball: Building a Legacy
Gretna’s basketball program has developed into one of the strongest in the state over the past several years. The Dragons’ boys’ and girls’ basketball teams have been competitive in both Class B and Class A, with both programs reaching the state tournament multiple times.
The boys’ basketball program, in particular, has produced several successful teams in recent years, with deep runs in the state tournament and district titles. The team is known for its well-rounded, disciplined style of play, which has helped them stay competitive in the highly competitive Nebraska basketball landscape.
The girls’ basketball program has also achieved success, producing several talented athletes who have gone on to play at the collegiate level. The team’s consistent competitiveness in both regular season and tournament play has made Gretna a formidable opponent in Nebraska high school basketball.
Track and Field: Individual and Team Excellence
Gretna High School has a rich history of success in track and field, with both individual athletes and relay teams achieving state championships and setting records. The school’s athletes have consistently excelled in sprints, distance running, and field events, and the program has produced numerous state champions over the years.
The Dragons’ track and field program emphasizes both individual excellence and team success. Athletes regularly qualify for the state meet, and Gretna has earned district and conference titles in track and field, reflecting the program’s depth and talent.
Volleyball: A Rising Power
Gretna’s volleyball program has grown into a competitive force over the past decade. The Dragons have made several appearances in the state tournament, and the team has developed a reputation for being tough competitors. With a strong coaching staff and talented players, Gretna volleyball has become a program to watch in Nebraska high school athletics.
The team’s success is built on a commitment to teamwork, strong fundamentals, and disciplined play. As Gretna continues to grow as a community, the volleyball program has attracted top talent and is poised for continued success.
Cross Country: Distance Running Success
The cross country program at Gretna has also produced individual state champions and strong team performances. The boys’ and girls’ cross country teams have been competitive in Class B and Class A, regularly sending athletes to the state meet. The program emphasizes endurance, mental toughness, and team unity, making it one of the school’s standout sports.
Gretna’s cross country runners have earned district and conference titles, and several athletes have gone on to compete at the collegiate level.
A Growing Legacy of Athletic Excellence
Gretna High School’s athletic program continues to grow and succeed as the community expands. With recent achievements in football, soccer, basketball, and other sports, the Dragons have solidified their place among Nebraska’s top high school athletic programs.
The school’s move to Class A in many sports has provided new challenges and opportunities, and Gretna has risen to the occasion, competing against some of the largest and most competitive schools in the state. The support from the Gretna community, dedicated coaching staff, and talented athletes have made the Dragons a consistent force in Nebraska high school athletics.
As the community continues to grow, Gretna High School’s athletic program is well-positioned for continued success, and its legacy as a powerhouse in Nebraska sports will only continue to grow in the years to come.
