Is it possible for a football team to lose more than 30 players to graduation and come back the next year to make a run at a state championship?

That is the goal of coach Scooter Molander and his Broncos at Phoenix Brophy Prep.

Brophy lost at least a dozen key seniors from its Division I semifinalist team, including linebacker Robert Relf, wide receiver Clarence Clark, linebacker Andrew Curtis, quarterback Tyler Bruggman, wide receiver Devon Allen, running back D’Amani Grayer, running back Marche Dennard, linebacker Conner Martinez, center Alex Rosner and linemen Dominic Riccitelli and Charlie Renfree.

The Broncos had some growing pains in spring ball and now are trying to mold things together in 7-on-7 passing competition. Brophy participated in the event at Arizona State that began last week and wraps up Wednesday night (June 12).

Brophy also holds some passing competition each Tuesday night, and this week is scheduled to host east Valley powerhouses Chandler Hamilton, Chandler, Mesa Mountain View and Mesa High.

“We are a young team and we’ve come a long way,’’ Molander said.

“Spring ball was a learning experience for everyone. Then last week at our place, we were 0-3. We started out the ASU event at 3-1 and I’d say we have improved 300 percent.’’

The biggest thing for the offense is the addition of Mike Gibbons as offensive coordinator.

Gibbons formerly was head coach at Tempe McClintock and grew up in Tempe playing youth football with Molander and late Scottsdale Notre Dame coach Scot Bemis.

Molander said Bemis would approve of the reunion of Molander and Gibbons.

“Somewhere up there, I think Scot is smiling,’’ Molander said.

One of the biggest tasks for the coaching staff will be to find a successor to Bruggman, who signed to play collegiately at Washington State.

Although nothing has been set in stone, the heir apparent appears to be Brian Woodward, a senior who mainly played safety last season.

“He has a quick release, quick feet and a good, strong arm,’’ Molander said.

On defense, a group of young linebackers is making some strides, and the secondary has potential.

Two key players in the defensive backfield likely will be Zach Kotoske at cornerback and Leonard Gutierrez at safety. Gutierrez did not play as a junior, but his return should provide a big boost, Molander said.

“The biggest thing for us right now is our attitude,’’ Molander said. “We are coming together as a family unit, hustling and working hard.’’

Brophy also is expected to participate in a camp this weekend at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff.