Neuqua Valley Star Max Schueneman Boosts Team’s Prospects

Two years ago, during his sophomore season opener at Oswego, Neuqua Valley’s offensive lineman Max Schueneman faced a challenging start in varsity football. Recalling the moment, Schueneman said, ‘My first varsity play, I actually fell straight on my face.’ Despite this setback, he quickly rebounded, contributing to a 5-yard run in the subsequent play. Since then, Schueneman has made substantial progress and, entering his senior season, stands as the Wildcats’ most prominent and adaptable lineman at 6-foot-5, weighing 305 pounds.

Schueneman, committed to Lindenwood, started as a right guard during his sophomore year. Last season, he earned all-conference honors in the Southwest Valley Blue at left tackle, excelling in 87% of his blocks. This season, Schueneman expects to return to the right guard position. Neuqua Valley coach Bill Ellinghaus values Schueneman’s versatility. ‘I think he will play guard,’ said Ellinghaus, ‘and it has nothing to do with him not being able to play tackle. It is more about where he best aids our football team.’ The coach noted Schueneman’s familiarity with each position on the offensive line.

Seniority and ability define Schueneman’s role, yet his teammates greatly benefit from his presence. Senior quarterback Drake Mennecke expresses confidence in Schueneman’s protective skills, stating, ‘It’s awesome to play with Max. It is for sure a privilege because anytime I line up behind my center, Max is going to get his guy no matter what. He’s going to fight his hardest against the end.’

Mennecke acknowledges Schueneman’s summer dedication, anticipating a ‘breakout year.’ Training with OL Mafia since December, Schueneman shares, ‘They’ve helped me a lot, and I’ve been in the gym every day getting better.’ The focus on running, blocking, and technique has enhanced his skills. Schueneman strives to improve his agility, declaring, ‘I like to think for my size I’m pretty fast.’ Playing more as a guard, he eagerly anticipates greater involvement in pulling and end-blocking.

During practice on Aug. 7, 2026, Schueneman displayed increased speed without sacrificing strength. Coach Ellinghaus comments on his physical progress, noting, ‘He lost about 10 pounds, losing some baby fat and becoming more athletic. But he’s stronger now than ever before.’ Under Ellinghaus’ tenure, Schueneman becomes the fourth Neuqua Valley offensive lineman to secure a Division I offer. His uncle Karl, who played at Iowa State from 1972 to 1975, is also a Division I player.

Ellinghaus praises Schueneman’s scholarship achievement, saying, ‘Division I scholarships are now even more of a premium with the portal situation. Fewer kids are able to get those Division I scholarships.’ Schueneman is content to have secured his recruitment before concluding his high school career, expressing, ‘It’s exciting. It feels great. This high school career has flown by. We should be very good this year.’

Practicing on campus in Naperville on Aug. 7, 2026, Schueneman aims to be a pivotal force for the Wildcats. With two losing seasons behind them, the team seeks a revival, and Schueneman’s leadership is critical. Coach Ellinghaus observes his evolution, stating, ‘He’s developed into more of a leader. Our kids just voted him captain. He’s an awesome kid.’ Schueneman’s commitment to his teammates is notable. ‘We have a bunch of awesome kids here, but Max is one of the best. He’s a super, super solid human who would help anybody out on the team.’

Reporter Matt Le Cren brings these insights on Schueneman’s promising future and the upcoming season.