Woodbine Coaches thoughts on Layne Pryor
Former Tigers standout (2018-2021)
DUSTIN CROOK (Football Coach)
During his high school years, Layne exemplified what it means to grow as both an athlete and a person. Starting as a promising freshman, he evolved into a cornerstone of our football program by the time he graduated. His commitment to self-improvement was evident in every practice and game, and his relentless work ethic propelled him to the forefront of high school athletics in Woodbine and on to UNI as captain.
As a coach, having players who are not just talented but also coachable is fun, and Layne was the embodiment of that ideal. His humility and willingness to adapt made coaching him a rewarding experience. He wasn’t just an athlete; he was a student of the game.
Beyond his personal achievements, Layne had a profound impact on the younger players in our program and community. He embraced the role of mentor with open arms, offering guidance, encouragement, and a shining example of what dedication looks like. Whether it was helping a freshman understand a play or offering words of encouragement after a tough game, his presence uplifted everyone around him.
Layne was a leader in every sense of the word. On the field, he commanded respect through his actions and attitude, inspiring his teammates to give their all. Off the field, he was equally impactful, maintaining high standards of behavior and academics while engaging in community. His leadership extended beyond football, shaping him into a role model for his peers and the younger generation.
Even after leaving the halls of Woodbine, Layne never forgot his roots in Woodbine. He continues to give back to the community in various ways, such as hosting youth football camps. His dedication to uplifting the next generation and supporting Woodbine is a testament to his character and gratitude for the town that shaped him.
Coaching Layne was an experience I will always appreciate. Athletes like him don’t come around often. His dedication, intelligence, and passion for the game made every practice and game memorable. He pushed himself and his teammates to new heights, and his legacy continues to influence our program today.
Layne is not just a former football player; he is a symbol of what it means to be a Tiger. His journey from a young athlete in Woodbine to potential NFL player is one we are proud to celebrate. He has set a standard for future generations, showing that with hard work, humility, and a commitment to giving back, anything is possible.
KYLE BARTELS (Basketball, Track)
Coaching Layne was an unforgettable experience. As he works toward his goal of reaching the NFL, it’s surreal to think I had the privilege of coaching him in multiple sports. He taught all of us - coaches, teammates, and even younger students – valuable lessons along the way. Beyond his athletic achievements, Layne was kind, caring, and just plain fun to be around. My kids still talk about hanging out with him before games, sharing snacks, and playing. He’s a true role model who has made a lasting impact on so many lives.
Layne was an incredible mentor to the younger Tigers. He left a lasting impact on both our school and our community. I still see students wearing Pryor gear with pride—it’s a testament to the influence he’s had here. Layne had a way of connecting with younger athletes, inspiring them to push themselves, and showing them what hard work and dedication look like.
Layne’s athleticism was truly special. He was on a completely different level in high school—whether it was on the court or the field, he was always hard to guard or cover. But what really set him apart was his discipline. He was laser-focused on the details and wouldn’t stop working until he perfected them. That combination of raw talent and relentless work ethic made him stand out among his peers.
Layne had an amazing balance as a leader. He loved to joke around and keep the atmosphere light, but he was also incredibly friendly, patient, and approachable. He had a talent for explaining things clearly and motivating his teammates. Just his presence at practice or a game could change the energy of the entire team. Layne was a leader who brought people together and made everyone around him better.
Layne hasn’t forgotten his roots. He’s always supporting our athletes, whether it’s attending games, running camps, or simply taking the time to talk with people. His willingness to stay connected and give back to the community speaks volumes about his character and the pride he has for where he came from.
JASON BENDGEN (Baseball)
Where do I start on coaching an athlete with the athletic ability Layne had/has? Layne is a great athlete, and we all knew the ceiling was high with the potential he had! He was always a bigger, faster, stronger player than most of his teammates even at a young age, but he didn’t let that get to his head. Layne was always willing to learn throughout his playing career at Woodbine High School. He knew his abilities and knew he was the star athlete, but he always worked to make everyone around him better! He liked the underdog teammates and would take them under his wing and mentor them to help make them better athletes! As a parent I watched this happen with my own son, Landon (Bendgen) his freshman year when Layne was a senior. Layne helped Landon to stay focused when the stakes started getting higher as the track season progressed that year.
As a parent and a coach that is exactly what you look for in your athletes (the willingness to help their teammates a.k.a a Leader)! That is what Layne Pryor is, a Leader!
He was a four-year varsity starter for the baseball team. He contributed instantly as an 8th
grader leading the team in doubles and triples. He also tied for third with the most hits that season as well. As an 8th grader he showed tremendous power and speed, and that continued to show as he got older! His junior season (his final season as a Woodbine Tiger baseball player due to leaving for college his senior year to play football at UNI) was cut short due to ‘covid year”. We only played eight games that season. During those eight games, Layne left his mark as a Woodbine baseball player and put on a show for all his fans. Layne hit five home runs in eight games played, hitting one on every field we played at that season! I still to this day wish he would have gotten a full season that year to see the tear he would have gone on!
When the ball left Layne’s bat it was scary. It was a missile! With only playing eight games that season, he still tied for 6th in all classes in the state of Iowa for most homeruns. All the guys above him played 17-28 games that season! Not only was Layne a force at the plate, but he generated gas from the mound as well! Layne was a great leader for us on the field and led in the same way off the field. He was always there to help and give advice to his peers and community.
