Friday, September 6, 2019
SOUTHERN OREGON FOOTBALL
Cascade Christian’s Schaan and Smith have eyes on another deep run in the 3A playoffs. Page 22
WINNING
WAYS
Black Tornado hopes for big things in year No. 2 under Turner. Page 2
Panthers a ‘work in progress’ to begin the new season. Page 4
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2 | Friday, September 6, 2019 | Southern Oregon Football
TABLE OF CONTENTS Southwest Conference North Medford South Medford Grants Pass Conference Roundup
TORNADO GLANCE 2 4 5 6
Midwestern League Ashland 10 Eagle Point 12 Crater 13 League Roundup 14 Skyline Conference Phoenix 18 Conference Roundup 20 3A District 2 South St. Mary’s Cascade Christian District Roundup
21 22 23
2A District 5 Rogue River
25
1A District 2 Butte Falls/CLAC 26 Prospect 27 Miscellaneous Broadcast Media Coaches Polls Past Champions Season Schedule
17 27 28 29
Cover Photo Andy Atkinson / Mail Tribune Sports Contacts Sports: 541-776-4480 Tim Trower: 541-776-4479 Kris Henry: 541-776-4488 Joe Zavala: 541-776-4469 Warren Blenkush: 541-776-4492 E: sports@rosebudmedia.com Web: www.mailtribune.com
QUOTABLE
“It’ll be one game at a time. Our goals are about effort, team unity … things like that. Let the wins and losses take care of themselves. We’ll work on being great people and great teammates. That’s how we focus our coaching.” — Ryan Riggle, Rogue River coach
MT FILE PHOTO
North Medford’s Jett Carpenter, left, and Josh Baptiste celebrate during a game last season. Both return as seniors and will be integral contributors for the Black Tornado.
North Medford is out to prove itself By Tim Trower Mail Tribune
There’s little doubt North Medford will make significant strides this season, its second under coach Steve Turner. But the Black Tornado players aren’t likely to jump on cafeteria tables and pound their chests. “We’re coming off a last-place finish, so we’ve got a long way to go,” said Turner. “When you’re a last-place team, you don’t have an easy game on the schedule. So for us to say we’re gonna do this, this or that, to me, that’s ludicrous.” North Medford is worried about two teams, he said: North Medford and McNary, the Black Tornado’s opening opponent. North Medford went 1-3 in the Southwest Conference last season, tying Roseburg for last place, and 3-7 overall. “Everybody’s above us,” said Turner, who took the Black Tornado reins following successful stints at
Mountain View of Bend and Cascade of Turner, winning state titles at each school. He crafted a record of 100-77 in 18 years as a Landon head coach before returning to North Medford, where he was the defensive coordinator for nine years, ending in 1997. “We’re fighting Zoller to get up there,” he said, “so that’s our outlook. Our outlook is, get off the bottom. We have something to prove. We haven’t done anything.” Nothing that would be evident to outsiders, anyway. Within the program, there are encouraging signs of a change in culture. SEE NORTH MEDFORD, 8
HEAD COACH Steve Turner (second year, 3-7; 19th overall, 109-84). North Medford has seen a four-fold increase in offseason participation in workouts and will bank on players from a one-loss junior varsity team to work into the mix. Turner GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Josh Dykes (assistant head coach/receivers/strength coordinator/offensive coordinator), Jim Figoni (running backs), Curtis Stout (linebackers), Jim Bosworth (secondary), Dan Hamlin (secondary), Johnny Vaigafa (offensive line), Alvin Thornton (running backs), Tyler Baird (quarterbacks/JV head coach), Dave Delgado (defensive line), Dan Smalley (freshman), Richard Tucker (freshman), Michael Rucker (freshman), Jered Gail (special teams). 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 1-3 (tied fourth, SWC). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 3-7. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Fourth. 2018 RESULTS North Medford Opponents 55 McNary 27 62 Jefferson 16 28 Bend 29 42 Mountain View 43 6 Sheldon 35 37 Grants Pass 29 14 Roseburg 42 28 Aloha 44 0 South Medford 35 State Playoffs 6 Lake Oswego 42 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (7): Lineman Parker Landon (6-2, 275, sr.), lineman Dane Stewart (5-11, 215, sr.), tight end Jett Carpenter (6-4, 215, sr.), receiver Devyn Grafton (5-11, 190, sr.), receiver Chance Costanzo (6-2, 190, jr.), quarterback Brennan Stults (6-3, 200, sr.), quarterback Colby Neron (6-1, 185, jr.). DEFENSE (6): Lineman Jayden Sandusky (6-2, 230, jr.), linebacker Jett Carpenter, linebacker Owen Grafton (5-10, 180, sr.), back Cole Zoller (5-9, 150, sr.), back Josh Baptiste (5-7, 150, sr.), back Luke Pugliano (5-10, 160, jr.). OTHER NOTABLES Defensive back Nick Samudio (5-7, 140, sr.), receiver Dan Cossette (5-10, 170, jr.), defensive back Peyton Hamlin (5-9, 160, sr.), linebacker Bradley Reed (5-10, 185, jr.), running back Devin Bradd (5-10, 190, jr.), defensive back Nolan Morris (5-10, 165, jr.), running back Garrett Henderson (5-8, 165, jr.), running back Devan Blankenship (5-10, 195, jr.), running back Travis Ebert (5-8, 185, sr.), offensive line Joe Baures (6-2, 215, sr.), offensive line Brett Rucker (5-7, 200, jr.), offensive line Tharon Gail (6-0, 225, jr.), linebacker Tanner Gaoiran (5-10, 180, jr.), offensive line Caden Ingle (6-0, 205, jr.), defensive line Matt Bryant (5-9, 180, sr.), offensive line Griffin Larson (6-2, 235, jr.), defensive line Nathan Prince (6-2, 225, jr.), offensive line Devin Crenshaw (6-1, 255, jr.), defensive line Levi Griffin (6-3, 310, jr.), linebacker Brenden Pollard (6-4, 200, sr.), running back Tayten Villa (5-7, 145, jr.), receiver Bryce Dyer (6-3, 175, so.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept. 6 MCNARY, 7 p.m. Sept. 13 at Jefferson, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 at Bend, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 MOUNTAIN VIEW, 7 p.m. Oct. 4 at Sheldon, 7 p.m. Oct. 11 GRANTS PASS, 7 p.m. Oct. 18 ROSEBURG, 7 p.m. Oct. 25 at Aloha, 7 p.m. Nov. 1 SOUTH MEDFORD, 7 p.m.
Southern Oregon Football | Friday, September 6, 2019 | 3
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4 | Friday, September 6, 2019 | Southern Oregon Football
PANTHERS GLANCE
MT FILE PHOTO
South Medford’s Austin Boster (14) returns a punt against Grants Pass last season. Boster, who is regarded as one of the most explosive players in the state, is back with the Panthers for his senior season.
South Medford begins the year as ‘work in progress’ By Tim Trower Mail Tribune
Bill Singler wouldn’t mind if his South Medford football team was largely an afterthought. “You can talk about us in terms of just flying under the radar,” said the Panthers’ coach, entering his 22nd year at the school. “We’re trying to figure out who we are. We don’t want too much hype about us because there isn’t anything to hype, yet. We’re a blue-collar team this year.” He might wish for that, but it’s likely wishful thinking, given the success he’s enjoyed at South Medford. On Singler’s watch, the Panthers have gone 132-88. The last three seasons, they went 25-8 with two unbeaten Southwest Conference championship campaigns and a state runner-up finish in 2017. Even Singler must concede, “We have some legacy on our side the last three years where
we’ve had a pretty good run. That’s pretty good football.” Under the radar? Probably not. South Josephson Medford was picked to finish third in a poll of SWC coaches. Last year’s team could not boast of many returning starters — one Hemant on offense and two on defense — after making it to the Class 6A title game the year before, where it lost 31-30 to Tuttle Clackamas. Still, in 2018, the Panthers were 2-2 and in third place in the SWC and 6-3 in the regular season before
dropping a home state playoff game to Reynolds. It would stand to reason South Medford would have far more returning starters this year, but not so. It returns three on offense and five on defense. Also similar to last year, the team’s seniors number in the low 20s. In a lot of respects, said Singler, the two teams are comparable. The biggest difference is the lack of a quarterback with at least some varsity experience in the Panthers’ system. Toren Tuttle, a senior transfer from North Valley in Merlin, and Daniel Phillips, a senior with junior varsity experience, entered the fall practices in a dead heat for the starting position, and Tuttle eventually won out. “It’s the first time, probably in my tenure, that we’ve gone in without somebody with some SEE SOUTH, 9
HEAD COACH Bill Singler (22nd year, 132-88). With a winning record last season, South Medford has gone 25-8 in the past three years, including a state runner-up season in 2017 and two unbeaten SWC campaigns. GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Jason Bauer (assistant Singler head coach/running backs/defensive line), Chris Parnell (defensive coordinator/linebackers), Damian Jackson (offensive line), Chad Cota (defensive backs), Dan Woodward (quarterbacks/JV head coach), Josh Milhollin (receivers/defensive backs), Mike Tejada (linebackers), Noah Berman (strength/conditioning), Sean Johnston (freshman head coach), Dave Alonzo (freshman), Mike Johnston (freshman), Logan Emonds (freshman). 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 2-2 (tied second, SWC). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Third. 2018 RESULTS South Medford Opponents 28 Centennial 7 38 Canby 12 20 Liberty 38 21 McMinnville 12 35 McNary 7 33 Roseburg 12 20 Sheldon 45 7 Grants Pass 28 35 North Medford 0 State Playoffs 28 Reynolds 35 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (3): Receiver Austin Boster (5-9, 150, sr.), tackle Jacob Hermant (5-10, 240, sr.), lineman Gio Rios (6-1, 230, jr.). DEFENSE (5): Back Austin Boster, outside linebacker James Duane (6-2, 195, sr.), end Justin Josephson (5-10, 170, sr.), safety Mason DeVries (5-9, 185, sr.), outside linebacker Jamal Parnell (5-8, 165, sr.). OTHER NOTABLES Quarterback Toren Tuttle (6-2, 175, sr.), quarterback Daniel Phillips (6-1, 170, sr.), running back Mason DeVries, running back Jamal Parnell, running back/linebacker Isaac Dillon (5-11, 210, sr.), running back Zach Miller (5-9, 160, sr.), receiver/cornerback Trey Alvarez (5-10, 145, sr.), receiver/defensive back Mitchell Walker (5-9, 165, sr.), receiver/linebacker Liam Stedman (6-0, 175, jr.), receiver/ safety Kaleb Barney (5-6, 155, jr.), tight end James Duane, tight end/defensive line Carson Cota (6-4, 240, jr.), center Mayson Ramirez (5-9, 180, jr.), center Cameron Davis (5-9, 175, jr.), offensive guard/nose guard Nathan Rohrs (5-6, 240, sr.), tackle Jack Stanley (6-2, 220, sr.), offensive lineman/ nose guard Charlie Campbell (5-8, 250, jr.), lineman Jalen Steadmon (6-4, 250, jr.), lineman Josiah Villa (6-1, 260, sr.), defensive line Nate Krupp (6-2, 185, sr.), defensive lineman Gio Rios, defensive lineman Jacob Hermant, linebacker Nick Varner (6-0, 180, jr.), linebacker/kicker Luke Allen (5-10, 170, sr.), linebacker Jagus Cattanach (5-9, 175, jr.), safety Rylee Heim (5-10, 155, sr.), safety Phoenix Riddell (5-9, 160, sr.), kicker Ryan Flores (5-10, 175, jr.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept. 6 at Centennial, 7 p.m. Sept. 13 CANBY, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 LIBERTY, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 at McMinnville, 7 p.m. Oct. 4 MCNARY, 7 p.m. Oct. 11 at Roseburg, 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at Sheldon, 7 p.m. Oct. 25 GRANTS PASS, 7 p.m. Nov. 1 at North Medford, 7 p.m.
Southern Oregon Football
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Friday, September 6, 2019 |
5
Cavemen pin their hopes on talented quarterback Coyle for the Mail Tribune
John Musser is excited about a few things in Grants Pass. First, football is back. And to make things even more interesting for the 12th-year head coach, he’s got a proven quarterback and several other intriguing talents ready to roll. All in all, Musser likes his team’s chances with senior quarterback Chase Coyle leading the way this fall. “I’ve been here for (a total) of 23 seasons,” said Musser. “This is the best quarterback in my time here. He’s a pure quarterback. ... He’s the dude for us.” Coyle was second-team all-Southwest Conference in 2018.
CAVEMEN GLANCE HEAD COACH John Musser (12th year, 64-52). Grants Pass has had winning seasons since 2013 but Musser has only made it beyond the second round of the state playoffs once (2014) in that span. GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Matt Kennedy (offensive coordinator/quarterbacks), John Tunick (special teams/defensive backs), Bub Marval (offensive line), Brian Richard (defensive line), Kyle
The Cavemen, who went 6-4 last fall, bring back seven starters on offense and three on defense. They were 2-2 in the SWC, tying South Medford for second place. This season, they were picked to finish second behind Sheldon in a preseason vote by the conference’s coaches. Senior tailback/linebacker Jake Henricks and junior lineman Andrew Prulhiere (a 300-pounder) are two of Grants Pass’ other cornerstones. Coyle, who has drawn interest from several NCAA Division I Big Sky schools, threw for more than 2,600 yards and 26 touchdowns last season. With a 64 percent completion rate, he’s shown to be a strongarmed signal-caller with a high
IQ. He’ll be protected by a veteran line, with starters Cadin Barker (senior) and juniors Prulhiere, Logan Vinyard and Kai Perez all back. Prulhiere, an all-SWC firstteamer last season, is agile for his size, Musser said. Baker made the second team a year ago Henricks rushed for almost 300 yards on 69 attempts and scored three touchdowns while starting in a few games last year. On defense, he was a 2018 all-SWC second-team linebacker who was among Grants Pass’ leaders in tackles. Musser said Henricks has added 20 pounds and gotten faster.
Swanson (running backs),
2018 RESULTS Grants Pass Opponents 41 Oregon City 64 48 Summit 41 49 Mt. View 41 38 Southridge 21 44 Roseburg 39 29 North Medford 37 42 Westview 14 28 South Medford 7 6 Sheldon 56 State Playoffs 35 Oregon City 60 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (7): Quarterback Chase Coyle (6-2, 211, sr.), lineman Cadin Barker (5-10, 252, sr.), lineman Andrew Prulhiere (6-1, 303, jr.), lineman Logan Vinyard (6-1, 274, jr.), lineman Kai Perez (6-2, 227, jr.), slot receiver JJ
Tyler York (defensive backs), John Valadez (wide receivers), Jonah Musser (junior varsity/ offensive coordinator/receivers), Robbie Zaina (JV/defensive coordinator/linebackers), Nate Scott (JV), Jeret Musser (junior varsity), Stacy Morgan (freshman head coach), Jameson Davis (freshmen), Gannon Schroder (freshmen), Jake Leair (freshman). 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 2-2 (tied second, SWC). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Second.
SEE GRANTS PASS, 8
JOEL TAKARSH / GRANTS PASS DAILY COURIER
Grants Pass senior running back Jake Henricks (16) ran for 300 yards and three touchdowns last season and is a returning all-SWC linebacker. Watts (6-1, 178, sr.), receiver Joel Valadez (5-11, 162, sr.). DEFENSE (3): Linebacker Jake Henricks (5-11, 200, sr.), defensive back Joel Valadez, free safety Jett Hood (5-11, 162, jr.). OTHER NOTABLES Linebacker/tight end Dante Haven (6-0, 185, jr.), lineman Peter Osipovich (6-0, 221, sr.), lineman Tyson Dixon (6-4, 231, sr.), offensive lineman Quentin Nieves (6-2, 261, sr.), defensive lineman Lincoln Kasiah (6-0, 271, sr.), defensive lineman/tight end Austin Clinger (6-3, 197, sr.), defensive back/wide receiver Noah Martinez (6-0, 180, jr.), defensive back/slot Cody Amaral (5-11, 162, sr.), slot/linebacker Andrew Medley (5-8, 167, sr.),
receiver/defensive back Devik Chiang (6-2, 177, jr.), receiver/ defensive back Anthony Maravilla (6-1, 164, sr.), receiver/ defensive back Keinan Alderson (5-6, 132, sr.), defensive back/ receiver Cameron Jipp (6-2, 167, jr.), running back Spencer Sloan (6-0, 182, jr.), defensive lineman Dredan Myers (6-0, 195, so.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept. 6 at Oregon City, 7 p.m. Sept. 13 SUMMIT, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 MT. VIEW, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 at Southridge, 7 p.m. Oct. 4 ROSEBURG, 7 p.m. Oct. 11 at N. Medford, 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at Westview, 7 p.m. Oct. 25 at S. Medford, 7 p.m. Nov. 1 SHELDON, 7 p.m.
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6 | Friday, September 6, 2019 | Southern Oregon Football
SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE
Favored Sheldon has lots on the line By Tim Trower Mail Tribune
Sheldon came within a whisker of capturing its first state championship in a half-dozen years last fall. It would surprise no one to find the Irish of Eugene contending again this season, despite the loss of some extremely high-profile players. Gone are quarterback Michael Johnson Jr., who now is at Penn State, and tight end Patrick Herbert, who is with Oregon. Running back Matthew Burgess, who was the offensive player of the year in the Southwest Conference, also graduated. But third-year coach Josh Line’s cupboard is anything but bare. The offensive line, a question mark heading into last season, is back intact, and there are plenty of skill players to step in and fill voids. “We’re excited,” said Line, whose Irish ended South Medford’s two-year hold on the SWC title in 2018 before falling to Lake Oswego, 34-27, in the Class 6A championship game. “We don’t have a lot of depth, so when you look at this group for an entire season, you’ve got high expectations for yourself, but you’re always worried about people staying healthy. Some of that you can control, some of it you can’t.” Sheldon last won a state championship in 2012. The school’s other three titles came in 2009, ‘07 and ‘02. The Irish were selected to repeat as SWC champions in a poll of the coaches. They received three first-place votes and 15 points. Grants Pass was second with 12 points, followed by South Medford (10), North Medford (eight) and Roseburg (five). Grants Pass and North Medford received the other two first-place votes. Sheldon went 11-3 overall last season and 4-0 in conference. It beat its SWC brethren by an average of 46-10. Only South Medford, a 45-20 loser, scored more than a touchdown against the Irish. Coaching in a state championship game was a new
pounds) is the anchor. “He’s one of the best linemen I’ve ever coached,” said Line. “And he’s improved from last year. He’s a way better player than he was last year, at least, that’s what we’re hoping. He’s worked hard in the weight room, got a lot stronger, better feet.” Flanking him will be the Meier brothers, who each are 6-0, 255. Johnson is 6-4, 265 and started on both sides of the ball last year. “He’s a special player and we’re excited to have him back,” said Line. “He’s probably one of our more talented players and a leader as well.” Tight end/linebacker Ben Mehlhaff (6-3, 210) falls in the same elite category, said Line. “He’s as good as we’ve got,” said the coach. He’ll get competition from senior transfer Seth Figgins (6-7, 230), an Oregon commit whose family moved to Eugene early from Thousand Oaks, California. Figgins will play primarily defense at the beginning of the season, said Line. Griffin Line (6-2, 190), the coach’s senior son, steps in at quarterback after playing mostly defense last season. He was at the helm early last season and again in the second half of a semifinal win over Clackamas due to injuries to Michael Johnson. Griffin Line was 29 of 43 passing for 298 yards with seven touchdowns and two interceptions in SWC play. He ran for 228 yards and three scores, averaging 6.5 yards per carry. “He’s a kid who wasn’t a starter for us last year, but ANDY NELSON /THE REGISTER-GUARD (EUGENE) he sure feels like a returning starter,” said Josh Line. “We’re Quarterback Griffin Line takes the helm for a Sheldon team that placed second in the Class 6A ranks in 2018. excited about what he can bring experience for Line, one he community. That’s what I The question mark of a year ago to the table.” hopes to replicate sooner rather remember. is the answer this time around. Griffin Line’s strength is as a than later. “It definitely hurt to not win Three first-team all-SWC dual-threat quarterback with “It’s just a fun experience,” the game, but I really appreci- players — center Andy Adams, the ability to spread the ball he said. “Being fortunate ated the opportunity to go that guard Seth Meier and tackle around, something the Irish enough to get to play in a state far. It’s very difficult to have Taylor Johnson — return on didn’t do as well as it should championship game, and all the that experience.” the offensive line, and one have in 2018, said coach Line. things that have to be done to If things break right in 2019, second-teamer — guard Max Lane Shields (6-1, 200) get there, sacrifices that need Sheldon will get another Meier, Seth’s identical twin — played linebacker last season to be made and the effort put chance. is back. All four are seniors. forth by the kids, coaches and Its fortunes will rest up front. Adams (6-foot-2, 285 SEE SOUTHWEST, 9
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8 | Friday, September 6, 2019 | Southern Oregon Football
NORTH MEDFORD From Page 2
Since last year, said Turner, every player adopted weight training. Before that, only a dozen participated. For summer workouts, about 80 kids took part, he said, four times the number of the previous year. “I was really, really happy with our kids and how they practiced, how they learned to practice,” said Turner. “We’re going to take that and what we accomplished here and move it into this year.” Turner wasn’t happy with himself after last season. “Coaches are never really happy with their outcome when you win three games and lose seven,” he said. “You have to look at what you did, and you have to look at yourself as a coach and reassess what we did well and what we did not do well and make changes.” Among the priorities was changing the defensive scheme and building a system around the talents of the players — on both sides of the ball — rather than trying to fit them in a system for which they are ill-suited. North Medford gave up 34.2 points per game in 2018, behind only Grants Pass (38.0) in the SWC. The Black Tornado offense was not explosive enough to make up for it despite boasting the state’s top rusher in senior Eli Spence. North Medford averaged 27.8 points for the season. There were some highlights for the Black Tornado. It opened the season with a 55-27 win over McNary of Salem, which would go on to run the table in the Mountain Valley Conference to make the state playoffs. North Medford followed that with a 62-16 win over Jefferson of Portland and added a 37-29 triumph over Grants Pass, runner-up in the SWC and a playoff team. There are enough returning players and players off a one-loss junior varsity squad to spawn hope.
GRANTS PASS From Page 5
Joel Valadez, a returning second-team senior cornerback, brings two years of starting experience and all-league recognition to the table. Jett Hood, a junior free safety, started half of the Cavemen’s contests last year. He’s a fierce hitter and competitor who uses his center-fielding skills from baseball to be rangy and instinctual on the football field, Musser said. Special teams players of note include Andrew Medley (a senior punter and second-team all-conference selection)
The most obvious change this season will come in the backfield, where Spence, now playing tight end for Portland State, once was. “It’s tough to replace a 1,991-yard rusher,” said Turner. But there are several prospects eager to give it a go. Senior Josh Baptiste, the team’s second-leading rusher last year with 212 yards during the regular season, and junior Garrett Henderson, the top ball carrier for the JV team, are in the mix, as is returner Bradley Reed, the biggest and fastest of the three. Baptiste averaged 8.5 yards per carry and scored twice on his 25 totes. Also on hand is transfer Devin Bradd from Eagle Point. The junior was firstteam all-Midwestern League a year ago, rushing for 1,350 yards on 161 carries and scoring 21 touchdowns. Turner feels good enough about his stable of tailbacks to suggest several might be on the field at once. “We’re trying to take advantage of what we’ve got,” he said. “You have three of those guys on the field, it makes it tougher for defenses to say, OK, who’s gonna carry the ball or have it thrown to them.” Providing assistance will be a fullback. Jayden Sandusky, who started on the defensive line a year ago and was a reserve fullback is a prime candidate this season. At 6-foot-2, 230 pounds, he provides size in the backfield. Joining him in the fullback pool are junior Devin Blankenship and seniors Travis Ebert and Brendan Pollard. “We go through those guys,” said Turner. “They take a beating, so we need to have four.” Who hands off to the runners could vary. It was a coin flip between senior Brennan Stults and junior Colby Neron as preseason practices wore on. Stults started the first seven games last season, and Neron finished up after Stults broke a collarbone against Roseburg. Stults was 35 of 66 for 567 yards with eight touchdowns and four interceptions. Neron was 10 of 27 for 147 yards with one touchdown and three
interceptions. Both gained upwards of 20 pounds since last year, improved their arm strength and are very athletic, said Turner. He didn’t rule out platooning them. “People say it’s not good to have two starting quarterbacks,” said the coach. “I beg to differ.” Last season, North Medford began the season with no varsity starting experience at the position. Turner much prefers this situation. “Unless somebody all of a sudden steps out and separates himself, because they’re both really good football players, how do you keep a guy on the bench?” said Turner. Whomever is throwing, a preferred target will be Jett Carpenter, who was second-team all-conference last year and has the attention of colleges. He had 18 receptions for 292 yards and four touchdowns in 2018. Pollard, who like Carpenter is 6-foot-4, provides a second option for two-tight end sets. Two senior starters on the interior offensive line return. Parker Landon (6-2, 275) manned a tackle spot, and Dane Stewart (5-11, 215) started at guard and tackle. Three tackles from the JV team — Levi Griffin, Griffin Larson and Devin Crenshaw — will fill the other tackle spot and possibly a guard position. “They give us good size,” said Turner. Other candidates at guard with Stewart are Joe Baures, Caden Ingle and Matt Bryant. Juniors Tharon Gail and Brett Rucker are the centers. The Black Tornado won’t lean as heavily on the ground game as last year, said Turner. “We can go to four wide receivers and empty sets if we want,” he said. “We’ll be way more versatile than we were last year and feel good about it. I think we’ll be a lot more difficult to defend this year.” Wide receivers with a chance to make an impact include returning starter Devyn Grafton, and speedy players from the JVs in Chance Costanzo, Nolan
Morris and Dan Cossette. Defensively, North Medford will go from a 4-3 base to a 4-2 nickel, featuring five defensive backs, including two strong safeties. Developing the secondary and emphasizing a pass rush have been priorities. The Black Tornado had only three sacks by the defensive line a year ago, said Turner. “That’s got to change,” he said. Bryant and Sandusky have the most experience on the defensive line, and Griffin got plenty of snaps on varsity as well. Nathan Prince started on the JV defensive line and will be mixed in with the aforementioned offensive linemen to provide plenty of depth. Linebacker Owen Grafton was all-conference as a sophomore and started last year before a concussion sidelined him. Tanner Gaoiran was the top linebacker on the JV team, and he’ll be joined by Reed, Stewart, Ebert and Gail. Strong safety Cole Zoller, a conference wrestling champion, moves from cornerback and spearheads the secondary. His cover skills and aggression as a tackler make him a good fit for the position. “You better know where he is because he’ll find you,” said Turner. Carpenter and Luke Pugliano both started last year and return. Henderson and Peyton Hamlin further solidify the strong safety posts. Baptiste was a first-team all-SWC free safety and returns to the deep three. He’ll be joined by Devyn Grafton, Costanzo, Cossette, Morris and Bradd. Cossette will handle kicking, and the punting chores were up in the air. Even though North Medford opens with two teams it beat a year ago, duplicating those outcomes won’t likely be easy. “For us,” said Turner, “it’ll be a real battle.”
and Valadez (who averaged over 25 yards per return last season). Slot receiver JJ Watts, who is one of 21 seniors, is also a returning starter. Other players of note include junior linebacker/tight end Dante Haven, senior lineman Peter Osipovich, senior lineman Tyson Dixon, senior offensive lineman Quentin Nieves, senior defensive lineman Lincoln Kasiah, senior defensive lineman/tight end Austin Clinger, junior defensive back/wide receiver Noah Martinez, senior defensive back/slot Cody Amaral, junior receiver/defensive back Devik Chiang, senior receiver/defensive back Anthony Maravilla, senior receiver/defensive
back Keinan Alderson, junior defensive back/receiver Cameron Jipp, junior running back Spencer Sloan and sophomore defensive lineman Dredan Myers. Sloan, with excellent speed, should pair well with Henricks in the backfield, Musser said. Grants Pass still has question marks, the coach said. The program graduated three receivers who accounted for around 2,300 yards. Musser is hoping his group can be an equal threat on the ground and air this fall. “We will be searching for a bit of an offensive identity early, as new receivers are broken in,” he wrote in a preseason press release. “But if we
can run the ball and use play action and run/pass options off of that, we feel our QB and offensive line can keep us in games. ... We need to shore up a scoring defense that has not lived up to expectations the past few years and plan on doing that with a scheme and some personnel changes in the middle of the defense.” The Cavemen have finished in third place or better the last six years in the league, which Musser said looks as wide open as ever now. Grants Pass has recorded winning seasons since 2013 but only made it past the second round of the state playoffs once (2014) in that span.
Reach sports editor Tim Trower at 541776-4479 or ttrower@rosebudmedia. com.
Southern Oregon Football | Friday, September 6, 2019 | 9
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experience,” said Singler. “That’s OK. Shoot, we’ve been pretty fortunate to have good quarterbacks in our system.” Elsewhere, there are bright spots and areas of need. The skill positions, headlined by first-team all-conference wide receiver and return specialist Austin Boster, are a strength, as are the linebackers and secondary. The offensive and defensive lines are the units posing the biggest concern. “Those two groups have to really come together because of the inexperience factor up front,” said Singler. “We have some capable players, but we have to see them in a game situation first.” One player he’s seen in action plenty is Boster, a 5-foot-9, 150-pound senior dynamo. The state-caliber track sprinter was second in the SWC in receiving last fall, catching 35 passes for 710 yards — 20.3 yards per reception — and 11 touchdowns. He added three kickoff- and punt-return scores. “He’s one of the top skill players in the state, in my opinion,” said Singler. “I don’t care what anybody else says. He’s fast, he’s dynamic as a kick returner. Having that type of kid on your team certainly makes a difference.” Boster missed most of the spring track season with leg ailments, but he’s back to full
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South Medford’s Mason DeVries (25) returns in multiple roles.
strength, said Singler. “I’m just hoping we can get the ball downfield to him,” he added. Other top receivers are Trey Alvarez and Mitchell Walker, while Liam Stedman and Kaleb Barney will compete for playing time. “They have some talent,” said Singler. “They’re fast, they’re quick.” Getting the ball to all of them will fall on Tuttle, who received honorable mention in Skyline Conference all-star voting last year. Both Tuttle and Phillips had good summer workouts while sharing reps in a passing league, said Singler. In the backfield, Mason DeVries earned honorable mention all-SWC behind graduated first-teamer Terrence Butler. But DeVries is rehabbing a knee injury and was a question mark early in camp. “He’s really committed,”
SOUTHWEST From Page 6
but now will provide a physical presence as the primary ball carrier. “We’re going to run the ball,” said Josh Line. “I don’t think anybody will be surprised by that. With Griffin’s decision-making ability, when people start to do what they did to us last year, which is try to load the box, we’re going to hopefully be better at making them pay for it.” Among the receiver options are Gunner Robinson (6-3, 190), who will be a two-way starter, and Carter Neuman (6-4, 220). The defensive will be led by inside linebacker Pierce Ewing (6-2, 220). “We hope that we can stay healthy,” said Josh Line, “and if we do, we’re going to have an opportunity.”
said Singler. “I’m proud of him.” Jamal Parnell, a starting linebacker, will be in the running back rotation, as will Isaac Dillon and Zach Miller off the JV team. All three are seniors. “We’ve got depth and not so much experience, but I guess you would say we have seniority,” said Singler. “They’re older, so that’s good. They should be feeling good about themselves, a year stronger in the weight room and all that kind of stuff. Hopefully we can get some production out of the running back position, too.” The other two returning starters on offense, besides Boster, are senior lineman Jacob Hermant, who was honorable-mention all-SWC, and junior linemate Gio Rios. Candidates to play center are Mayson Ramirez and Cameron Davis, while the rest of the front will include Nathan
Roseburg Coach Dave Heuberger’s emphasis in 2018 was to close the gap on the rest of the Southwest Conference. “I thought we did that, outside of Sheldon,” said Heuberger, entering his fourth season as the Indians’ head coach. “It’s kind of hard to close the gap on Sheldon.” Roseburg went 3-6 overall and 1-3 in the conference. The signs of progress a year ago: a five-point loss to Grants Pass, offensive success against league defensive leader South Medford, a resounding victory over North Medford and a season-ending, nonleague victory over Canby. “There’s some things there, where people within the program see where we’re heading and what we’re doing,” said Heuberger. “I think we’re doing some good things. Our conference,
Rohrs, Jack Stanley, Charlie Campbell, Jalen Steadmon and Josiah Villa. Tight ends aren’t crucial to the South Medford system, but James Duane and Carson Cota are available. Nearly half the starters from a stout defense return for the Panthers. Last year, they led the league by allowing only an average of 17.9 points and 297 yards per game. Headlining the five returning starters on defense are Justin Josephson, a senior end (5-10, 170), and cornerback Boster. Josephson was first-team all-conference, and Boster made the second unit. Senior Nate Krupp will be in the rotation up front along with a number of those contributing on offense: Rohrs, Campbell, Rios, Hermant and Cota. Outside linebackers Duane and Parnell provide veteran leadership, and junior Jagus Cattanach will work in. Duane figures to be a stalwart, particularly on defense. “He shows a lot of promise with his athleticism,” said Singler. “I just hope he locks in and has a real good senior year, but his athleticism is untapped. He’s 6-2, 195, runs fast. He’s a hurdler in track and a really quality athlete, and I know there’s college activity with him.” The inside backer group includes Stedman, Nick Varner, Dillon and Luke Allen. DeVries returns as a starting safety. Walker and Alvarez could start at cornerback, and others working into
there’s not a night off in it, that’s for sure.” Among the positive signs are continued good turnouts. There are 93 players in the program, including 36 freshmen. Last season, Roseburg’s only win in the first six games was a 49-38 victory over playoff-bound Reynolds. “It took us a little while to get going,” said Heuberger. “We played some good football toward the tail end of the season, but we need to start out a little faster than we did. That’s been the focus this year is, what can we do to get where we were faster within the dynamic that is Roseburg football. “We’re excited where we’re going, we just want it to be quicker. You know, in the world we live in, everything needs to be yesterday.” Two players are back who were out most of last season with injuries. Senior tailback/strong safety Doran
the secondary will be Barney, Rylee Heim and Phoenix Riddell. Kicking duties will be handled by Allen and Ryan Flores, and Miller is the punter. South Medford opens the season on the road tonight at Centennial, then hosts Canby and Liberty. It went 2-1 against those teams to start the season last year, losing to Liberty. Comparing the Panthers to their predecessors of a couple years ago, Singler said, “I think I would say this team is a work in progress.” “We may need a couple, three games under our belt before we settle in,” he said. “We don’t have many returning starters, obviously, so we have to see how they do under fire. There’s a lot of question marks that need to be answered. The early preseason games will kind of answer some of them for us. “But I can’t say we’re going to be a dynamic football team right out of the gate.” Singler rates the SWC as “kind of a crapshoot.” Sheldon and Grants Pass were picked first and second in the coaches’ poll, and Singler doesn’t dispute that. “After that it’s between us, North (Medford) and Roseburg,” he said. “It’s just how things come together, how we jell and stay healthy. But I think we’re all three kind of right there looking up at GP and Sheldon.” Reach sports editor Tim Trower at 541-776-4479 or ttrower@rosebudmedia.com.
Gillespie (5-10, 190) will be the focal point of the ground game after being hobbled a bit last season. In seven SWC games, he ran for 398 yards with 4.6 per carry, scoring five touchdowns. Senior quarterback/defensive back Jace Stoffal, the conference baseball pitcher of the year last spring, broke a collarbone in the first game last season while playing wide receiver. “He’s someone we’re looking for to do big things,” said Heuberger. “He’s a year stronger, a year better.” Two-way starters Hunter Blix and Colton Jordan anchor the offensive and defensive lines. Linebacker Rourke Martin and strong safety Colin Rietmann are other key returners. Reach sports editor Tim Trower at 541776-4479 or ttrower@rosebudmedia. com
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| Friday, September 6, 2019 |
Southern Oregon Football
Grizzlies set their sights on rebound By Joe Zavala Mail Tribune
Ashland has a history of success in the years it hosts Japan for the Pacific Rim Bowl, but that’s not the only reason the Grizzlies are optimistic this season. Ashland head coach Beau Lehnerz will roll out a team he says has shown tremendous explosion during the team’s offseason 7-on-7 rounds, utilizing speedsters like receiver Gabe Ekwall and running back DaMario Watson. And regarding Ashland’s 45-18 loss to Japan in the Pacific Rim Bowl, Lehnerz says it was a wake-up call, one he hopes will ultimately give Ashland a head start that proves beneficial. That was certainly the case in 2011, 2013 and 2015 — years in which Ashland advanced to the Class 5A final, semifinals and quarterfinals, respectively. Of course, those Grizzly teams also won
MT FILE PHOTO
Ashland’s DaMario Watson, who returns for his senior season, eludes Ridgeview defenders during a 2018 game in which he ran for 216 yards.
their PRB matchups, but Lehnerz is confident the Grizzlies will learn from mistakes made in the July 27 exhibition game. “Throughout the whole summer and leading up to (the PRB) we played the
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be really good, and there were times we looked really explosive and kind of what we were hoping for. But we also realized that’s 7-on-7 … no pass rush and other things. “The Pacific Rim Bowl was a really good eye-opener. Because it was like, OK, now how are you going to deal with that big defensive end that’s coming around the edge and still trying to get that ball out? So I feel like that’s going to be something great to teach off of.” Leading the offense for the second year in a row will be senior quarterback Rieger Sayre, who filled in for the injured starter early in his sophomore season and has been a fixture under center ever since. At 6-foot-1, 210 pounds, Sayre has a strong enough arm to make all the throws and is an elusive runner when passing plays turn into scrambles. He’ll have options galore this season, and ones he should
be very comfortable with as Ashland’s top skill players, including Ekwall, Watson, receiver Nathan Carter and tight end Nagali Jackson, return to run the Grizzlies’ spread offense. “So our skill positions are veterans and explosive, so our jobs as coaches is finding ways to get those guys the ball, to balance the ball and to balance the offense,” Lehnerz said. Watson showcased his potential during a win over Ridgeview last season, when he rushed for 216 yards and four touchdowns, but the success of the offense as a whole may hinge on the Grizzlies’ offensive line, which is replacing three of five starters. The tackles, seniors Finn Hayes and Joah Margulis, are back to protect against edge rushers, and Lehnerz says the rest, including center Jake Robitz, played enough last season to SEE GRIZZLIES, 11
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From Page 10
earn valuable experience. If that line can hold its own, the Grizzlies believe they could have something special. “I feel like DeMario is one of the better running backs in the conference, but defenses are going to have to decide how they want to play us,” said Lehnerz, whose team averaged 24.7 points per game last season. “We’ve got four guys that run under a five-flat 40 and guys that were on the sprint relay team, so they’re going to decide how they’re going to cover us. So I see us being able to get some quick passes and just get the ball out to the receivers, get it in their hands and get a couple blocks. So I feel like our passing game can open up our running game — that can be a general game plan, without sharing too many secrets.” Lehnerz added that he’s looking for Sayre to take the next step in his development and clean up his decision
making. “The last year and a half, (Sayre’s) had a really good arm, a really strong arm — he developed that as a freshman,” Lehnerz said. “But his thing is, can I read defenses? And so I feel like he’s getting better at that, developing chemistry with his receivers. He’s got pretty much four guys to throw to when he drops back and it’s just about reading the defense and finding the right guy, and if he hits the open guy it’s going to be a big play for us. I think he’s just got to make sure that he doesn’t try to do too much.” Defensively, Ashland, which runs a 4-2-5, will rely on many of the same players, including Hayes (linebacker), Ekwall (cornerback), Watson (safety) and senior Nolan Rinefort, a free safety who will play receiver on offense. Rinefort may be the key to the whole operation, though like the other side of the ball, it’s a fairly experienced group at the skill positions. Austin Harris will be looking to pressure quarterbacks from his defensive end spot,
GRIZZLIES GLANCE HEAD COACH Beau Lehnerz (third year, 6-12). GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Antione Perry (offensive coordinator/quarterbacks), Austin Brower (defenLehnerz sive line), Matt Boudreaux (receivers), Matt Sayre (receivers), Ronald Rylance (offensive line/defensive line), Eric Sullivan (special teams coordinator), Tito Soriano (defensive backs), Greg Lemhouse (running backs/defensive line), Scott Chadick (quarterbacks/receivers/defensive backs). 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 1-4 (fifth, MWL South). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 4-5. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Fourth. 2018 RESULTS Ashland Opponents 21 Willamette 12 35 Springfield 49 51 Ridgeview 40 7 Churchill 59 17 Eagle Point 52 13 Crater 41 42 North Eugene 21 17 South Eugene 27 19 Redmond 0 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (9): Wide receiver Gabe Ekwall (6-2, 195, sr.), quarterback Rieger Sayre (6-1, 210, sr.), lineman Vinny Pippa (5-9,
Jackson will be at the other end and James LaFond, Ashland’s biggest player (6-3, 265) will try Hayes to clog up the middle from the tackle position. Ashland’s athleticism in the defensive backfield bodes well Margulis for its ability to cover, so whether the Grizzlies can slow down a potent rushing attack will likely be parPippa amount to the team’s success. Ashland opponents averaged 33.4 points per game last season, a number that rarely yields playoff success, which is the Grizzlies’ goal. Lehnerz says part of his team’s defensive strategy is to take advantage of its strength,
220, sr.), running back DaMario Watson (5-9, 190, sr.), tackle Finn Hayes (6-2, 205, sr.), tackle Joah Margulis (6-2, 190, sr.), receiver Nathan Carter (6-3, 170, jr.), tight end Nagali Jackson (5-10, 185, sr.), receiver/kicker Nolan Rinefort (5-11, 185, sr.). DEFENSE (9): End Austin Harris (5-10, 175, sr.), linebacker Finn Hayes, safety DaMario Watson, cornerback Gabe Ekwall, end Nagali Jackson, cornerback Eriq Rodriguez (5-7, 140, jr.), free safety/ punter Nolan Rinefort, safety Hayden Ellis (6-3, 190, jr.), defensive tackle James LaFond (6-3, 265, jr.). OTHER NOTABLES: Tight end/defensive end Logan Sanford (6-4, 205, sr.), running back Austin Harris, running back/ linebacker Will Hackett (5-9, 220, so.), receiver/defensive back Alex Spencer (5-10, 145, sr.), offensive line/defensive line Jake Robitz (5-10, 205, jr.), offensive tackle/defensive end Cooper Nangle (6-2, 205, jr.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept. 6 at Willamette, 7 p.m. Sept. 13 SPRINGFIELD, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 at Ridgeview, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 at Redmond, 7 p.m. Oct. 4 CHURCHILL, 7 p.m. Oct. 11 EAGLE POINT, 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at Crater, 7 p.m. Oct. 25 at North Eugene, 7 p.m. Nov. 1 SOUTH EUGENE, 7 p.m.
which is Rinefort. The 5-11, 185-pound playmaker also serves as Ashland’s kicker and punter and will be considered a viable option to attempt a field goal whenever the team faces a fourth down inside the 35-yard line, Lehnerz said. His most important role is probably on defense, however. “(Rinefort’s) a ballhawk, he makes good plays on the ball in the air but also he’s a guy basically we’re trying to funnel all the run plays to because he’s a great run player as well playing from the free safety spot,” Lehnerz said. As a safety measure, the Grizzly coaches teach the hawk tackling drill, which keeps the head away from contact. It’s patterned after rugby tackling. “He’s (Rinefort) about as good as they come with what we’ve been teaching, just taking the legs out, putting the shoulder pads on the thighs and keeping the heads out of contact,” said Lehnerz. After finishing 4-5 last season, including 1-4 in the Midwestern League South, Ashland is looking to make a
Friday, September 6, 2019 |
Reach sports reporter Joe Zavala at 541-776-4469 or jzavala@rosebudmedia.com.
! ! z z i Gr Greg White QB Class of 1986
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big move up the standings and return to the playoffs for the first time since 2016, when the Grizzlies won the MWL and advanced to the state quarterfinals. That’s a tall order considering they play in one of the toughest leagues in the state, especially since only the top two teams in the MWL South are guaranteed a postseason berth. Lehnerz, however, believes Ashland has the tools to get there. The question, he believes, is whether those pieces can find a way to merge through the ups and downs of the regular season. “Talent, potential, we feel like we have the guys to play with anybody,” Lehnerz said. “But can we come together as a team, face adversity? If we get smoked out and we have to go to North Bend or Lakeview or whatever, can we let that roll off our back? That’s the biggest question: can we maximize potential and come together as a team?”
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12 | Friday, September 6, 2019 | Southern Oregon Football
Eagle Point sets out to beat odds New coach, novice quarterback add to Eagles’ challenge By Don Hunt for the Mail Tribune
Coaching a high school football team without an experienced quarterback is always a challenge. McElroy Imagine mentoring a squad whose starting signal-caller is wearing a gridiron uniform for the first time. That’s the conundrum facing Meertens first-year Eagle Point head coach Erik Johnson. There are other concerns, such as a mere four starters intact from a year ago, the program’s best player transferring to North Monroe Medford before Johnson was hired in late May and a
coaching staff that wasn’t finalized until August. It’s been quite a summer odyssey for the 37-year-old Johnson since he left Ontario High in Eastern Oregon and headed to the Rogue Valley. But his calm, collected and confident personality has him thinking positively. “A lot of what’s happened these past few weeks I’ve had no control over,” Johnson said. “But I can already feel this team coming together. The kids are getting more comfortable with me and the new staff. We’ve got 80 kids in uniform and a lot of them are good athletes. “We plan on being competitive right away.” Johnson’s first order of business was rounding up quality assistant coaches and, if he could find them, a familiar face or two around town. Hiring longtime Eagle Point coaches Tyson Wolf and Joe Meerten to lead the freshman team met the criteria. SEE EAGLES, 15
EAGLES GLANCE HEAD COACH Erik Johnson (first year). Johnson led Ontario to a 28-28 record after taking over in 2013, earning at least a share of the Greater Oregon Johnson League district championship during his past three seasons. The Tigers reached the 4A semifinals in 2017. GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Trampis Waite (offensive coordinator), John Oliva (defensive coordinator), Josh Graves (offensive line), Nate Helwig (JV head coach), Oliver Herazo (defensive line/JV), Jory Foulon (freshman), Tyson Wolfe (freshman), Joe Meerten (freshman). 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 2-3 (fourth, MWL). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 6-3. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Third. 2018 RESULTS Eagle Point Opponents 35 Klamath Union 28 40 Redmond 8 48 Springfield 7
27 52 40 20 82 62
South Eugene 43 Ashland 17 Churchill 61 Crater 65 North Eugene 56 Willamette 46 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (2): Center Santos Godines (5-9, 230, sr.), left tackle Tyler Gove (6-4, 250, sr.). DEFENSE (2): Safety Justin McElroy (5-8, 175, sr.), cornerback Lucas Meerten (5-9, 165, jr). OTHER NOTABLES: Quarterback Kyle Kendrick (6-2, 180, sr.), running back Gabriel Hupf (5-8, 160, jr.), guard Brenden Monroe (6-1, 190, jr.), linebacker Jared Dole (6-1, 180, jr.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept. 6 KLAMATH UNION, 7 p.m. Sept. 13 REDMOND, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 at Springfield, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 at Thurston, 7 p.m. Oct. 4 SOUTH EUGENE, 7 p.m. Oct. 11 at Ashland, 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at Churchill, 7 p.m. Oct. 25 CRATER, 7 p.m. Nov. 1 NORTH EUGENE, 7 p.m.
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Southern Oregon Football | Friday, September 6, 2019 | 13
COMETS GLANCE
MT FILE PHOTO
With senior quarterback Trever Davis (6) at the controls and a host of talented returners, there’s a great deal of optimisim surrounding Crater.
‘D’ is the key for Crater By Don Hunt for the Mail Tribune
Randy Waite is a modest man who takes a cautious approach when it comes to predicting how his football team might fare. No team has ever won a game in preseason practice, let alone a league or state championship, he would tell you. But Waite is having a hard time suppressing his jubilance when it comes to the Crater Comets. And who can blame him? When the third-year head coach peeks at his roster, he sees a fourthyear starting quarterback, three returning wide receivers, a returning running back and four offensive linemen that toiled in the trenches as regulars in 2018. Defensively, six starters return. What’s not to like? “On paper, we look great,” Waite said. “There’s a lot of optimism, and this group hangs out together off the field as well as on, which is a good sign. But paper doesn’t win football games.” Waite cautions that Crater doesn’t have a lot of depth, and he’s quick
to note the Comets open their season at Wilsonville — the 2018 state runner-up — and then meet defending state champion Thurston Jaasko at home in week three. “We’re going to find out quickly how we stack up against a couple of really good teams,” he said. The Comets have the talent to hang D. Davis with the best. They’ll be led by senior quarterback Trever Davis, who’s been taking snaps since his freshman season. He passed for 2,170 yards and Warner 19 touchdowns a year ago, when Crater went 7-4 overall and advanced to the state quarterfinals. It was second in the Midwestern League South Division with a 4-1 record.
Davis also ran for 573 yards and seven scores as the Comets averaged 41.7 points per game. “He’s Mr. Steady,” said Waite of the 5-foot-10, 190-pound Davis. “Nothing rattles him. He’s not a real vocal guy — he leads by example — but the other kids fall in line behind him.” Although Davis piled up yardage and touchdowns last season as he hit the airways for nearly 24 pass attempts per game, his 52 percent completion statistic needs to ramp up, Waite said. “We throw the ball downfield a lot but we want him at 60 percent,” the coach said. Four other skill position players return as starters: wide receivers Trevor Jaasko and Chase Sherer, slotback Dawson Douglas and running back Gavin Acrey. Jaasko, a junior who snagged 44 catches for 732 yards and 10 touchdowns a year ago, hooked up with a traveling 7-on-7 team from Eugene that ventured to Las Vegas in the offseason. “He’s fast, and he catches SEE CRATER, 15
HEAD COACH Randy Waite (third year, 12-9). Crater’s high-octane offense averaged 41.7 points per game last season but the defense yielded 33.6. Waite GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: David Douglas (offensive coordinator/quarterbacks/wide receivers), Berk Brown (defensive coordinator/ defensive backs/wide receivers), Beau Stanfield (defensive line), Vincent Gay (linebackers), Brad Eaton (offensive line), Zach Warner (defensive line), Wes Davis (director of operations), J.R. Godley (running backs), Tony Cobb (quarterbacks). 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 4-1 (second, MWL). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 7-4. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Tied first. 2018 RESULTS Crater Opponents 20 Wilsonville 53 58 Willamette 14 35 Thurston 40 26 North Eugene 7 49 South Eugene 13 41 Ashland 13 65 Eagle Point 20 20 Churchill 58 53 Ridgeview 33 State Playoffs 47 Lebanon 41 45 Wilsonville 78 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (9): Quarterback Trever Davis (5-10, 190, sr), left tackle Dawson Davis (6-2, 250, jr.), left guard Hunter Van Sickle (5-11, 245, sr.), right guard Gerritt Warner (6-0, 230, sr.), right tackle Jacob Memmott (6-4, 225, sr.), wide receiver Trevor Jaasko (6-1, 165, jr.), wide receiver Chase Sherer (6-1, 170, sr.), slotback Dawson Douglas (6-0, 180, jr.), running back Gavin Acrey (5-11, 180, sr.). DEFENSE (6): Cornerback Gavin Acrey, safety Robert Amoson (6-0, 170, sr.), cornerback Bruce Cwiklinski (5-8, 165, sr.), linebacker Tyler Ennis (6-0, 190, sr.), outside linebacker James Ruth (6-0, 175, sr.), end Jacob Chenoweth (6-3, 215, sr.). OTHER NOTABLES: Center Crayton Gillispie (5-10, 235, sr.), inside linebacker Brady Brock (5-11, 175, sr.), defensive end Joseph Jordahl (6-2, 215, so.), nose guard Isaiah Mays (6-2, 265, sr.), free safety Brady Eaton (6-1, 180, jr.), quarterback Blake Eaton (6-2, 180, jr.), running back Cameron Kramer (5-8, 160, jr.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept. 6 at Wilsonville, 7 p.m. Sept. 13 WILLAMETTE, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 THURSTON, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 at North Bend, 7 p.m. Oct. 4 NORTH EUGENE, 7 p.m. Oct. 10 at South Eugene, 7 p.m. Oct. 18 ASHLAND, 7 p.m. Oct. 25 at Eagle Point, 7 p.m. Nov. 1 CHURCHILL, 7 p.m. Nov. 8 League playoff, TBD
14
| Friday, September 6, 2019 |
Southern Oregon Football
MIDWESTERN LEAGUE
Talented Churchill reloads, aims for three-peat in MWL By Joe Zavala Mail Tribune
The thing about the Churchill Lancers is, they’re still the Churchill Lancers. Which is why when it came to ranking the teams in the Midwestern League South, the league’s coaches did not let the fact that the Eugene powerhouse lost a whopping 26 players to graduation sway them one bit. No, Churchill, which is looking for its third straight conference title, once again sits atop the league’s coaches’ poll, although this time they’ll share the role of favorite with Crater. South Eugene ranked third, Eagle Point and Ashland tied for fourth and North Eugene sixth. Though the Lancers’ perch may reflect a certain amount of respect — they were the Class 5A state runners-up in 2017 and looked primed to win it all last season before a stunning last-minute loss to Thurston in the state quarterfinals — the predicted finish is also based, at least in part, on talent. Returning to the backfield for Churchill is senior running back Deonte Jones, who moved
to the area from Alabama last fall and ran for 1,353 yards and 20 touchdowns in only six games, including 330 yards and six touchdowns in that epic 49-48 quarterfinal loss. Listed at 6-feet, 200 pounds, Jones is an elusive slasher with breakaway speed and a nasty stiff arm. According to Churchill head coach AJ Robinson, Jones has scholarship offers from Utah State and Portland State on the table and is drawing attention from “some local Pac-12s.” Jones will be the featured back in the Lancers’ spread offense, which lit up 5A football last season behind another transfer, quarterback Demontre Thomas, now at Portland State. Replacing Thomas is Dylan Carson, a 6-5, 240pound senior who played tight end last year but started at quarterback for the junior varsity team two years ago. “He’s relatively new to the game of football,” Robinson said of Carson, a three-sport athlete. “But he makes up for his lack of experience with his athleticism. He’s got all the physical tools that you could want.” SEE MIDWESTERN, 16
ANDY NELSON / THE REGISTER-GUARD (EUGENE)
Churchill running back Deonte Jones joined the Lancers midway through 2018 and averaged 226 yards rushing per game.
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Southern Oregon Football | Friday, September 6, 2019 | 15
EAGLES
a catcher in baseball who’s new to the gridiron. “It’s obviously a process but he’s catching on quick,” said Johnson of the 6-foot-2, 180-pound senior Kendrick. “He’s an athletic kid who can run and he’s getting better each day at throwing the ball. “He gives us the best chance
to win at the quarterback position.” Look for the Eagles to run often behind the 5-9, 230pound Godines and the 6-4, 250-pound Tyler Gove. Junior left guard Brenden Monroe (6-1,190) is also excelling in the trenches, Johnson said.
“My philosophy is to establish the run on offense and stop the run on defense,” said Johnson, who led Ontario to three Greater Oregon League titles and a berth in the state semifinals in 2017. “That’s what we’re going to hang our hat on, and it looks like we’ve got some
solid kids up front to make that happen this season.” Johnson runs a spread-type offense that incorporates components of the Wing-T. Look for the Eagles to run a lot of trap plays, counters and reverses, with play-action passes mixed in. Godines has surfaced as a team leader despite his quiet nature. “He has the experience, he can speak to that, and so we’re trying to get him to be more vocal, get his teammates lined up where they’re supposed to be,” Johnson said. “You can’t survive without team leaders.” McElroy has emerged as the Eagles’ starting tailback while the speedy Meerten will serve in a utility role — lining up in the backfield or at wide receiver. The pair will also be formidable at cornerback on defense. Other impactful defensive players figure to be Gove at nose guard and Monroe and Jared Dole at linebacker. Given their circumstances — new coach, new quarterback, inexperienced players throughout, best player leaving — Las Vegas oddsmakers might list the Eagles as underdogs each time they took the field this fall if Midwestern League matchups were up on the board. Eagle Point plans to buck the odds.
Dawson Douglas. “The speed, the knowledge of route running and the execution of what we’re trying to do — it’s high-level stuff. These guys are going to be fun to watch.” Ditto for Acrey, a cat-quick senior who was hobbled with injuries last season but still managed to run for 576 yards. Senior Brady Brock, who will start at inside linebacker on defense, and scatback junior Cameron Kramer will also pack the pigskin. With so much experience across the board, the Comets, who rarely huddle and often get plays off in less than 20 seconds, plan to add formations to their offense this season. They’ll slide into two-back sets, employ a tight end, move
a player into a wing position — it’s all about keeping defenses honest, Waite said. “It takes time and repetition to do this but we’ve got a quarterback in his fourth year and other guys in their second or third year, so we think we can make it work,” he said. “We don’t want defenses to dial up their exotic looks against us.” Up front, guards Hunter Van Sickle and Gerritt Warner and tackles Dawson Davis and Jacob Memmott return as starters. Center Crayton Gillispie plugged in for three starts last season because of injuries. Davis, a junior, is the only underclassman in the group. “It really helps having those guys up front completely up
to speed with our skill kids,” David Douglas said. “They’ve seen every blitz and (defensive) front. They can handle line calls and adjustments and not put the onus on the quarterback.” Unlike the offense, Crater’s defense is simplifying its schemes. After yielding 33.6 points per game a year ago — including a stunning 78 to Wilsonville in a playoff loss — the Comets are going basic. Returning stop-unit starters include cornerbacks Acrey and Bruce Cwiklinski, strong safety Amoson, end Jacob Chenoweth and linebackers Tyler Ennis and James Ruth. Other major contributors figure to be Brady Eaton and Brock, and hard-nosed wrestlers Joseph Jordahl, at
end, and Isaiah Mays, at nose tackle. Jordahl was the state runner-up at 195 pounds at the Class 5A tournament last winter. “Our pass defense really broke down last season,” Waite said. “We’d be doing OK at stopping the run and then get hurt by a long pass play on broken coverage. There was a lot of confusion. We’re simplifying everything. We want the kids to use their athletic ability and just play.” If the Comets can solidify their defense, they could make a deep run in the playoffs. They’ll get a couple of early-season exams when they line up against Wilsonville and Thurston.
From Page 12
Landing defensive coordinator John Oliva, who once coached with longtime Ontario and Eagle Point coach Harry Hedrick, was another home run. Johnson reached out to Hedrick before he took the Eagle Point job. “You come to these big life decisions and it’s nice to be able to contact someone like Harry, who had very positive things to say about Eagle Point,” Johnson said. Johnson would have had a stellar anchor piece in running back Devin Bradd, one of the state’s top sophomores a year ago when he rushed for 1,350 yards and 21 touchdowns, including a school-record 281 yards and five scores in an 82-56 victory over North Eugene. But Bradd was gone before Johnson arrived in Eagle Point. So, the Eagles will persevere with just two returning starters on each side of the ball from last season’s squad that went 7-3 overall and 2-3 in the Midwestern League South Division, where they placed fourth: center Santos Godines and left tackle Tyler Gove on offense and safety Justin McElroy and cornerback Lucas Meerten on defense. With no varsity caliber quarterback in sight when he arrived on the scene, Johnson turned to Kyle Kendrick,
CRATER From Page 13
everything,” said Waite of Jaasco. “Other teams will have to adjust their schemes to cover him or it’s going to be a long night for them.” Senior Robert Amoson will join Douglas at the other slot spot in the Comets’ four-receiver sets. Junior Brady Eaton also figures to get snaps at each position and will start on defense at free safety. Brady’s identical twin brother, Blake, will serve as the backup quarterback. “This group is upper tier,” said offensive coordinator David Douglas, the father of
ANDY ATKINSON / MAIL TRIBUNE
Eagle Point quarterback Kyle Kendrick, a senior, is new to the Eagles’ program. Here he takes a snap in a jamboree last week at North Valley High in Merlin.
| Friday, September 6, 2019 |
Southern Oregon Football
MIDWESTERN From Page 14
He’ll have some nice options, including hulking senior tight end Orion Osborn (6-3, 240) and senior receiver Malcolm Yates (5-11, 170), who transferred from South Eugene. There’s a wild card, too: senior receiver/kicker Simon Dexter (6-2, 180), who’ll be making his football debut after showing his athleticism while winning the 5A state long jump title last spring. “(Dexter’s) our fastest player,” Robinson said. Churchill scored 49.2 points per game on average last season, so defensive perfection was hardly necessary. This year’s “D” could be asked to carry more of the load and its strength, said Robinson, is the linebacker corps. Osborn is back to lead that crew, which also includes returning senior starter Sam Yanez (6-0, 200). There’s not a lot of experience in the Lancers’ defensive backfield, but athleticism abounds. Drew Lesh (6-1, 175), Nick Bedgood (5-10, 170), Colin McDowell (5-10, 160) and Tyler Murphy (6-1, 170) are all expected to take on big roles for a program that hasn’t lost a league game since 2016. As always, Robinson said,
“Our main goal is to win the conference championship. We’ve won it two years in a row and we take pride in chasing that goal. And then we just want to get the best position possible in the playoffs.” — AJ Robinson, Churchill coach
expectations are high. “Our main goal is to win the conference championship,” he said. “We’ve won it two years in a row and we take pride in chasing that goal. And then we just want to get the best position possible in the playoffs, and in the playoffs you just see what happens. Last year our run ended earlier than we thought it was going to, but the year before that it went longer than we expected. You never know what’s going to happen in the playoffs.”
South Eugene South Eugene, a 6A hybrid program which went 3-2 in league play while making its MWL debut last fall, is led by first-year head coach Kenny Koberstein. The former offensive coordinator for Harrisburg, a perennial playoff team in the 3A ranks, Koberstein has some pieces that could make his spread offense take flight. The team’s best player may be senior quarterback Bryce Boettcher, a threestar rated prospect who started last season and is a threat to run. “He’s kind of the straw that stirs the
drink for us,” Koberstein said. Senior Orion Garcia will move to running back this year after earning all-league honors as a slot receiver last season. The receiving corps has size, if not experience. Dylan Edwards, who stands 6-2, only had 10 catches last season but has looked dynamic in camp despite coming off a baseball injury; Trey Nelson is 6-3 and Josh Paul is 6-4. Koberstein said he’d like to have a balanced offense, but stressed that Boettcher is “a special talent.” “I do love to pass and I think we can do some things,” Koberstein said. On defense, senior inside linebacker Hunter Brown led the Axe in tackles last season and is expected to do the same this year. Big senior nose guard Zach Luworo will help plug up the middle, and senior safety KJ Hirst will play a key role in the defensive backfield.
North Eugene
players that helped the junior varsity team win its league title with an 8-1 record last season move up to varsity. One of those players is junior quarterback Jason Proudfit, who saw limited varsity action last year but has shown plenty of potential as an athletic signal-caller who’s had success in the Highlanders’ zone-read offense. Protecting Proudfit will be senior left tackle Logan Kerr (6-4, 270), who Raish calls the team’s best overall player. North Eugene’s retooled defense — four new defensive coaches were brought in, Raish said — is led by junior middle linebacker Anthonee Anderson (6-0, 220), who’s “the coach on the field” for the Highlanders. Junior strong safety Dawson Davis returns after starting all last season, and senior linebacker Brandon Brown is expected to be an impact player, too. “(Defense) was our weakness last year and right now it’s been handled and we are just eons ahead right now on the defensive side for all the work we’ve been putting in,” Raish said. “The kids have bought into the system, they’re really playing well, flying around and taking ownership. It’s been fun.”
North Eugene will be looking to rebound from a winless MWL South campaign last season, and head coach Reach sports reporter Joe Zavala at Rick Raish is optimistic the Highlanders 541-776-4469 or jzavala@rosebudwill enjoy a turnaround as many of the media.com.
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Filename: 458 Publication: Mail Tribune - HS Football Run date: September, 2019
Southern Oregon Football
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Friday, September 6, 2019 |
MEDIA
Options abound to follow your teams Staff reports
Once again, local high school football fans need only have an internet connection or access to a radio to keep track of their favorite teams. Besides the Mail Tribune’s in-depth coverage of the local prep football scene through articles, statistics, photo galleries and video — it’s all accessible at mailtribune.com – local radio stations will broadcast games every weekend, Table Rock Sports will offer live video feeds and ABC’s local affiliate, KDRV, will broadcast one game a week on TV. The radio offerings are abundant. North Medford football games and select soccer and volleyball matches — the Black-and-Blue matchups as well as playoff tilts — will be broadcast on The Game, which airs on 96.1-FM and 580-AM as well as TheGame541.com. South Medford football games and select soccer and volleyball matches
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will air on News Media KCMX, which airs on 99.5-FM and 880-AM as well as kcmxam.com. Matt Bagley will primarily call North Medford games but will also handle South Medford’s football home opener Sept. 13. The main Panthers announcer has yet to be determined. For the 11th season in a row, Jim McCoy will call Cascade Christian football games, with Mark McLemore providing color commentary. Games are available by audio streaming at www.thedove.us/thenail. The Game will also air Oregon State football games, Seattle Seahawks games, three NFL prime-time games — Monday, Thursday and Sunday nights — every week, NFL playoff games and the Super Bowl. San Francisco 49ers games will air on 95.7-FM, while Oregon Ducks football games can be found at 880-AM. Table Rock Sports, which can be found at tablerocksports.net, airs free live video streams featuring South Medford, North Medford, Grants
Pass, Crater, St. Mary’s, Phoenix and select Skyline Conference games from Klamath Falls. All video streams start 15 minutes prior to kickoff. Fall coverage runs Tuesday through Saturday and includes football, boys and girls soccer and volleyball action. For the fifth consecutive year, Table Rock Sports will partner with KTVL
News 10 for Friday Night Football. The postgame interview and highlight show begins at 11:15 on Friday nights and will include Joe Brett, Tom Ersepke and lead anchor Brian Schnee, who will be joined this fall by Kris Henry and Tim Trower as the Mail Tribune joins forces with Channel 10.
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| Friday, September 6, 2019 |
Southern Oregon Football
PIRATES GLANCE
ANDY ATKINSON / MAIL TRIBUNE
Phoenix’s Mike Walker picks up yardage during a jamboree at North Valley last Friday. Walker also is a returning all-Skyline linebacker.
Phoenix eager for fresh start By Dan Jones for the Mail Tribune
Dave Johnson has been coaching football since 1976. “I’ve played or coached my whole life,” said the 68-year-old Johnson, who takes over for Jered Gail as head coach at Phoenix. “It’s what I’ve wanted to do since I was 15. I’ve always wanted to stay involved in football somehow. It’s one of those things that can be really rewarding.” He and his Pirates know they’ve got something to prove after going 0-8 last fall. Phoenix brings back eight returning offensive starters and seven on defense. “We are all kind of learning at the same time,” Johnson said. “You’ve got to try to win over everybody, plus the coaching staff. And they are doing a great job.” The quarterback position remained open as the start of the 2019 season approached. Senior Zach Dungey returns with starting experience, but sophomore Colton Samis was also in the mix. “They can do different things,” Johnson said. “Colton may be a better runner and Zach a better passer.” Senior linebacker Mike Walker returns after landing a spot on the firstteam Skyline Conference list.
On offense, he and senior Mateo Lopez both have starting experience at running back. Nik Goff, who was a second-team Skyline punter, offers starting experience at receiver (he was an honorable mention wideout last fall). Senior linemen Dominic McGee and Lopez were both selected as conference honorable mentions last season. Cam Cory (a Skyline honorable mention defensive back) is back for his senior year. Senior linemen Ariel Lopez and Sal Castanon also have repetitions as
starters. Lineman Fa Masalosalo (6-foot-2, 335 pounds) is another player to watch. “He’s a sophomore who could be a really good player,” Johnson said. “He’s one of those guys on a team who can make a difference.” Johnson owns a wealth of experience. The former football player went to Medford High before graduating from Crater. The 1976 Southern Oregon University alumnus has made coaching stops SEE PHOENIX, 20
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Southern Oregon Football
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20 | Friday, September 6, 2019 | Southern Oregon Football
SKYLINE CONFERENCE
Mazama’s reign expected to continue By Warren Blenkush Mail Tribune
Clearly established as the team to beat in the Skyline Conference, Mazama will not only look to win a sixth straight conference title, but it’s expected to make a run at the only playoff destination to elude the Vikings — the Class 4A state championship game. Coach Vic Lease said this team has the talent and mindset to make a deep postseason push. “We feel like this team is the best prepared leading up to the season as any team we’ve had,” he said. “Our preparation has been constant. If there’s anything this group holds over the last six teams, it’s in their preparation.” Under Lease, who enters his seventh season with a 46-14 record and 27-3 mark in Skyline play, Mazama has missed the playoffs just once, which was in his first year at the helm. His teams have also reached two state semifinals along with a pair of quarterfinals. Their other playoff berth was their lone first-round exit. “The bar has been set to win the conference championship and go deep into playoffs,” said Lease. “That’s the expectation every year. That expectation is one thing but you’ve gotta put the work in to get there.” Leading the Vikings offensively will be first-team all-Skyline senior quarterback Nate Beck. He will be protected by a stellar offensive line anchored by athletic 6-foot3, 235-pound senior Issac Hagerty.
PHOENIX From Page 18
at Grants Pass, Hidden Valley, Lincoln High in San Jose, California; Overfelt High in Fresno, California; El Dorado High in Placerville, California, and Union Mine High in El Dorado, California. He retired in 2014 before returning to the Rogue Valley and taking on the roles of assistant head coach and strength
Senior running back Cooper Hamilton (6-2, 215) will replace last season’s Skyline offensive player of the year, Buddy Zakour. “Cooper can step right in and not miss a beat,” said Lease. Hamilton will be complemented by a pair of sure-handed senior wide receivers in Cole Brosterhous (6-2, 180) and Tristen Lee (6-2, 185). “Both are basketball types that can go up and get it,” said Lease. “They have a great nose for the football.” On the other side of the ball, the Vikings will rely upon a defense that brings back six all-conference players. “Our defense is as fast and athletic as it’s ever been,” said Lease. “We’re really looking forward to defense leading this team this year.” Hagerty, a Skyline honorable mention on the defensive line, is one of those players the Vikings will be counting on. He’ll be shuffled along the defensive front, playing both end and nose tackle to give opposing offenses different looks and to exploit mismatches. The Vikings’ defense also features a trio of returning all-conference senior linebackers in Hamilton, Cadence Baltz (6-0, 190) and Ben Hoegee (6-0, 195). Brosterhous, a second-team defensive back a year ago, and Lee, who was an honorable mention as a sophomore, will be mainstays in the Vikings’ secondary along with senior Trevon Daniels (5-10, 180). Newcomers on the defense
are senior rush outside line- contributed to a 2-7 record. One way Stork went about backer Conner Wynne (5-11, 200) and junior defensive end it was having his players come up with three goals to achieve Dominic Hankins (6-2, 230). this season: be the first team Klamath Union to score each game, have Coming off a second-place the conference’s best takefinish in the Skyline Con- away-turnover ratio and win ference, Klamath Union is the Skyline Conference. expected to be near the top That ambition will be in once again as it returns several range for the Hornets, who key players, including dynamic return 18 starters — nine playsenior Darius Holmes, who ers on each side of the ball. made the all-conference team “It’s the most cohesive unit last season at three positions. we’ve had,” said Stork. “In Holmes, at 5-11 and 185 the late season when we get in pounds, was a first-teamer adverse situations, that’s when as both a defensive end and it’s gonna matter. Everyone is punter. He was second team at on the same page. Last year it wide receiver and also figured felt like square one because we in the Pelicans’ rushing attack. replaced so many guys.” Also back will be senior secOne returners is all-world ond-team quarterback Xavier senior John Tacchini, who was Arvizu, who will look to build a first-team Skyline linebacker on a stellar junior season. Pel- and second-team running back icans coach Tom Smith expects a season ago. Juniors Tim Orr and Cade to hand over more responsibility to Arvizu in hopes of Northcutt battled for the bringing more balance to an starting quarterback spot in offense that was primarily run- the preseason. A key target will be 6-3, 185-pound senior based a season ago. Junior Aaron Franklin should first-team wide receiver Sam provide another reliable target Dixon, the conference’s leadas a slot receiver and as a run- ing receiver last year, as well as second-team slot receiver ning back. The Pelicans’ cornerstone on Cameron O’Connor. The Hornets will run a sinthe offensive line will be junior Dawson Smith (6-1, 280). He’ll gle-back spread offense which also play defensive tackle also feature a lot of tight end alongside sophomore Kaden personnel to highlight junior Coulter, who will start oppo- second-teamer Braden Lawrie site of Holmes at defensive end. (6-4, 215) and junior Joe NorthFranklin will start at line- cutt (6-5, 225). Joe Northcutt will double backer with junior Zeke Pena. as a defensive end after earnHenley ing honorable mention honors D u r i n g t h e o f f s e a s o n , last year, while junior lineman third-year coach Alex Stork Parker Wooten (6-4, 270) emphasized solving Hen- should give Henley size and ley’s executional woes, which toughness on both sides of the
ball.
and conditioning coach at North Medford. When the Phoenix opportunity arose, it intrigued Johnson. Now the Pirates are forming their identity. The turnout has been fair, Johnson said, with about 55 players for the varsity and junior varsity units. “Nobody likes going 0-fer,” said Johnson, who took last year off from coaching. “Nobody likes not winning any games. What you have to do is get that out of their minds, and
then teach them enough stuff and get them organized so they know this could be good and we have a chance. You’ve got to convince them they can win. Of course, none of that matters until we do win. We’ve got to be successful. Just being competitive is not really the answer.” He’s installed an offense that aspires to expose mismatches. “We’re multi-formation,” said Johnson, who teaches at North Medford. “Not a spread
that only comes when you beat somebody.” That challenge will begin on opening night against Cascade Christian. “They are well coached and have some good players,” Johnson said. “That would be a great game to come out and get stuff done in. I’m sure they are thinking the same thing.”
team, but we can do some of that. We are a two-back, one-back team. We’re trying to put defenses in a bind as far as motions, using shifts, using things like that to gain an advantage.” The Pirates attended the SOU camp this summer with around 32 athletes, Johnson said. The team showed some heart, he added. “If you’re gonna be good, you’ve got to have a little swagger,” the coach said. “But
North Valley North Valley will look to begin the season the way it finished 2018 following a rough start when it dropped its first five games. The Knights won their final three Skyline games, posting two shutouts and outscoring their opponents 94-16. The Knights return a trio of talented senior running backs to carry the load in coach Neil DeForrest’s Wing-T offense: first-team all-Skyline fullback Austin Gray, second-teamer Eli Colas and Cole Comyford, who is coming off a knee laceration that cost him most of the season. Behind center will be senior quarterback Drew Hansen, whose favorite target could be senior tight end Aiden Avila, who at 6-4 and 190 pounds, provides a big-bodied target and red-zone threat. The returning starters along the offensive line are seniors Brandyn Lagan and KC Comyford, who will also be a cog on the defensive line along with Avila — an honorable mention defensive end as a junior — and Zachary Ellison. Gray, Hansen and junior Garrett McLaughlin make up the Knights’ linebacker corps, while the secondary will feature Cole Comyford and senior honorable mention outside hybrid safeties Colas and senior Tyson Garcia. Reach sports reporter Warren Blenkush at 541-776-4492 or wblenkush@rosebudmedia. com
Reach freelance writer Dan Jones at dljcards@gmail.com.
Southern Oregon Football
CRUSADERS GLANCE
State Playoffs
HEAD COACH Jamie Young (10th year, 43-40). The Crusaders won six straight games last season and earned their second state play- Young off berth in 24 years. GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Josh Aldrich (offensive coordinator), Adam Peterson (defensive line/tight ends), Steve Thomas (wide receivers/linebackers), Ben Young (defensive backs/running backs), Tanny Flowers (wingbacks), Mike Robinson (offensive line/safety). 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 4-1 (second, Dist. 2 South). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Third. 2018 RESULTS St. Mary’s Opponents 7 Amity 51 24 Lost River 33 55 Regis 6 49 Gold Beach/Pacific 6 48 Douglas 8 34 Hidden Valley 16 49 Brookings-Harbor 7 56 South Umpqua 24 13 Cascade Christian 61
35
Scio 50 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (9): Quarterback Aliiloa Kaeo-Wailehua (5-10, 170, sr.), lineman Nate Thickett (6-1, 250, sr.), lineman Connor Walker (6-0, 210, sr.), lineman Lance Parrish (5-10, 175, jr.), lineman John Beattie (6-2, 185, sr.), tight end Cobey Aldrich (6-1, 235, sr.), wide receiver Tre Foster (6-5, 225, sr.), wide receiver Josh Covington (5-9, 165, sr.), running back Brady Eiler (6-0, 205, sr.). DEFENSE (7): Linebacker Cobey Aldrich, lineman Nate Thickett, lineman Connor Walker, defensive end Tre Foster, free safety Aliiloa Kaeo-Wailehua, strong safety Brady Eiler, lineman Sean Snyder (6-2, 185, sr.). OTHER NOTABLES: Running back/ safety Will Heycke (6-0, 180, jr.), receiver/free safety Jaden Foster (6-1, 170, fr.), linebacker Cayden Aldrich (5-9, 200, so.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept. 6 at Amity, 7 p.m. Sept. 13 LOST RIVER, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 REGIS, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 at Gold Beach, 7 p.m. Oct. 4 at Douglas, 7 p.m. Oct. 11 at Hidden Valley, 7 p.m. Oct. 18 BROOKINGS-HARBOR, 7 p.m. Oct. 25 SOUTH UMPQUA, 7 p.m. Nov. 1 at Cascade Christian, 7 p.m.
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St. Mary’s veterans seek a berth in playoffs again By Dan Jones for the Mail Tribune
Fans may best remember Tre Foster as the game-changing defensive end at St. Mary’s last fall. The Far West League defensive lineman of the year generated interest from both Oregon and Oregon State, along with a handful of other NCAA Division I programs. And as impressive as he looked last year as a junior, just wait until you see him now, St. Mary’s head coach Jamie Young said. The 6-foot-5, 225-pound Foster is one of nine seniors for the Crusaders, who lost their first two games last year before rattling off six straight wins and securing the program’s second state playoff berth in 24 years. Foster will remain a linchpin of the St. Mary’s defense, and he should be a centerpiece at receiver after firstteam all-league wideout Alex Heycke graduated. “Tre is a special talent,” Young said. “He has a genuine love for practicing,
for playing in games, for preparation. He loves to go out and compete. He was also the defensive player of the year in basketball and was the (Mail Tribune) all-star game MVP. The kid is a competitor. He wants the ball in his hands and can elevate. “Defensively, he was just tough for opponents to deal with last year. He brought a lot of different skill sets. It’s tough to find anybody who goes as hard as he does play after play. ... When I say he’s a special athlete, it’s the truth. We’ve had OSU on campus and he took a visit to Oregon. His work ethic is tremendous. He’s exciting.” Foster will look to build on his rapport with senior quarterback Aliiloa Kaeo-Wailehua, who started a portion of his sophomore season and all of last year (he was a second-team conference signal-caller). They helped the Crusaders to a 6-4 overall record and a 4-1 mark in the Far West League, finishing second to Cascade SEE ST. MARY’S, 24
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22 | Friday, September 6, 2019 | Southern Oregon Football
Cascade Christian intends to again focus on journey By Don Hunt for the Mail Tribune
If you projected the Cascade Christian High football team for 10 wins, a league championship and a deep run in the Class 3A state playoffs this fall, you’d probably be on target. History tells us as much. Since Jon Gettman became the Challengers’ head coach in 2010, the team has gone 91-22 overall, 30-0 in league play and 21-7 in the playoffs. The sustained prosperity has included two state titles, a pair of state runners-up and two other trips to the semifinals. Yet, Gettman and his players never talk about this extraordinary surge of success. And that may be one of the reasons it keeps flowing forward. “We never talk about league championships or state championships or any of that stuff,” said Gettman, whose team won the state title in 2017 and finished second last season. “The focus is always on embracing the journey. We go out on the practice field each day to grow as football players and as young men. “That’s always been our approach, and it always will be.” Gettman admitted he has one advantage that most small schools don’t: assistant coaches who know the ropes and stick around. Defensive coordi nator Mike Schaan has been at Cascade since Gettman became head coach. Quarterbacks coach Steve Furst and linebackers coach Jeff Olson have been with the program for eight years, while defensive backs coach Sam Carpenter and junior varsity coach Andy
MT FILE PHOTO
Cascade Christian’s Kristian Fralich signals after scoring a touchdown during a game last season.
Scaglione have been on board for seven years. “Our kids improve drastically from the start of the season to the end of it, and it’s because of all the individual work they’re getting from the assistant coaches,” Gettman said. “These guys invest a lot in our kids. The expectations are high.” Such cohesiveness could be especially valuable this season because the Challengers return only nine of 22 starting positions. They were 5-0 in the District 2 South and 11-2 overall, falling 44-14 to Rainier in the state title contest. The lack of starting experience figures to be greatly mitigated by the
return of second-team all-state quarterback Kiegan Schaan. A year ago, in his first full season as a quarterback, the 6-foot, 190-pound Schaan posted some jaw-dropping statistics: 3,316 yards passing and 32 touchdowns and 743 yards rushing and 14 scores. He broke the single-season school passing record that his brother, Haiden, established in 2017. The younger Schaan was also a first-team allstate safety last season and was the District 2 South’s MVP on both sides of the ball. “He’s a perfectionist who sets a high standard
for himself,” said Gettman of Kiegan Schaan. “He’s a kid who’s always asking questions. “Throwing the ball isn’t natural for him, but he works at it and his completion percentage is good (59 percent last season). He gets a little better every day.” Schaan’s favorite receiver figures to be junior Kristian Fralich, a 5-7, 150-pound speedster who had 42 catches for 611 yards and eight touchdowns in 2018. Senior Cade Sample (12 catches, 216 yards) also returns. Sample wasn’t a big part of the offense last season, but a catch he made on his shoelaces and turned into a touchdown in a playoff win over Amity went on the highlight reel. “Fralich is explosive and very quick out of his breaks,” Gettman said. “He’s going to make some big plays. If he matches up one-on-one, he usually wins the route. “As for Cade, we need him to step up. He’s a bigger kid (6-2, 180) who can work the middle of the field.” Cascade Christian’s only other returning starter on offense is guard Gabe Pierson. Leading candidates to fill the other offensive line positions are center Jacob Copely, guard Grant Couzens and tackles Christian Brehm and Bryson Cannon. It’s a rather lean but athletic group with only Pierson exceeding 215 pounds. “There’s definitely a molding process that needs to occur in the offensive line, but it’s an athletic group that we can take advantage SEE CASCADE, 25
CHALLENGERS GLANCE HEAD COACH Jon Gettman (10th year, 91-22). With nine wins this season, Getman would join the 100-victory club in just a decade of work as the Cascade Christian head coach. GENERAL INFORMATION Gettman ASSISTANTS: Mike Schaan (defensive coordinator/offensive line/defensive line), Jeff Olson (linebackers), Sam Carpenter (defensive backs), Joe Hagler (running backs), Mike Haggert (wide receivers), Andy Scaglione (head JV/defensive backs/wide receivers), Steve Furst (quarterbacks), Ryan Sample (JV assistant), Tony McDougle (linebackers/running backs), Darren Turituri (offensive line/defensive line/JV defense), Ben Lofton (JV). 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 5-0 (first, District 2 South). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 11-2. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: First. 2018 RESULTS Cascade Christian Opponents 28 Phoenix 0 14 Klamath Union 20 52 Harrisburg 20 52 Pleasant Hill 13 51 Hidden Valley 7 52 South Umpqua 0 52 Douglas 0 59 Brookings 20 61 St. Mary’s 13 State Playoffs 49 Harrisburg 13 57 Scio 8 49 Amity 24 14 Rainier 44 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (4): Quarterback Kiegan Schaan (6-0, 190, sr.), right guard Gabe Pierson (5-9, 225, sr.), wide receiver Kristian Fralich (5-7, 150, jr.), wide receiver Cade Sample (6-2, 180, sr.). DEFENSE (5): Strong safety Kiegan Schaan, cornerback Kristian Fralich, outside linebacker Cade Sample, outside linebacker Elijah Smith (5-6, 160, sr.), inside linebacker Michael Croy (5-10, 175, sr.). OTHER NOTABLES: Offensive tackle/defensive end Christian Brehm (6-0, 190, jr.), offensive tackle/defensive end Bryson Cannon (6-2, 195, so.), center/nose guard Jacob Copely (6-0, 215, sr.), guard/nose guard Grant Couzens (6-5, 215, sr.), wide receiver/inside linebacker Davis Federico (6-0, 170, jr.), wide receiver/safety Matthew McPheeters (6-2, 160, jr.), quarterback/ cornerback Sam Martin (5-9, 140, jr.), running back/ linebacker Titus Miller (5-8, 165, jr.), running back/ linebacker Elijah Nehf (5-9, 155, jr.), wide receiver/ cornerback Will Pierson (6-1, 165, jr.), wide receiver/ cornerback Ethan Rathburn (5-11, 160, jr.), wide receiver/cornerback Braedon Scaglione (6-0, 160, sr.), tight end/linebacker Austin Waits (6-1, 210, so.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept 6 PHOENIX, 7 p.m. Sept. 13 at Klamath Union, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 at Harrisburg, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 PLEASANT HILL, 7 p.m. Oct. 4 HIDDEN VALLEY, 7 p.m. Oct. 11 SOUTH UMPQUA, 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at Douglas, 7 p.m. Oct. 25 at Brookings-Harbor, 7 p.m. Nov. 1 ST. MARY’S, 7 p.m.
Southern Oregon Football
DISTRICT 2 SOUTH
Hidden Valley poised to contend for crown By Kris Henry Mail Tribune
With the notion of more equality at the top of the District 2 South lineup this season, Hidden Valley head coach James Powers and company are that much more excited and invested in making 2019 a year to remember. With a host of returning players, led by first-team all-league juniors Sam Vidlak and Jeremiah Noga, the Mustangs are expected to challenge reigning champion Cascade Christian and upcoming St. Mary’s for the conference title. All three schools received at least one first-place vote in the preseason coaches’ poll, with Cascade Christian standing as the favorite with 23 points and four first-place votes. Hidden Valley was second with 21 points and one first-place vote and St. Mary’s third with 19 points and the other first-place vote, followed by Brookings-Harbor
(13), Douglas (seven) and South Umpqua (seven). Vidlak guided Hidden Valley to a state playoff appearance and 6-4 record last year, and expects to be on top of his game even more with the experience he gained from a year ago. “Sam’s a very intelligent young man and he’s a football-savvy type of guy,” said Powers, in his third year at HV. “He’s going to put in as much time as any coach watching film, if not more. He leads the team well and has a great arm. He’s just got a lot of assets and tools to get the job done.” Some of those assets come in a deep receiving corps, with the 6-foot-3 Noga joined by 6-4 junior Lawrence Matusik to create matchup problems on the outside with sophomore Nate Vidlak in the slot and senior transfer Cameron Decker in the mix. Junior running back Tobias Powers is SEE DISTRICT 2, 24 MF-00115093
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24 | Friday, September 6, 2019 | Southern Oregon Football
ST. MARY’S From Page 21
Christian. St. Mary’s fell in the first round of the state playoffs to Scio, 50-35. “(Kaeo-Wailehua) is a tremendous competitor,” said Young, adding that the QB will also serve as placekicker. “Toughness is one of his strongest points. He’s very creative as an athlete and has really evolved over the last three years. He’s just an exciting player who can run the ball well and (who is) a really good passer. We feel great about him leading our offense.” Seniors Nate Thickett (a first-team all-league selection), Connor Walker and John Beattie and junior Lance Parrish all return starting experience to the offensive line. “I really would say as a coaching staff this year we are excited about the experience and toughness and reliability of the offensive line,” Young said. “These guys have a lot of varsity experience. Just a real strong group and a very close-knit group.” Senior tight end Cobey Aldrich (6-1, 235) is back after earning a spot on the first-team all-league offensive list. “He’s a playmaker,” Young said. “We asked him to be a relentless blocker and
DISTRICT 2 From Page 23
“chomping at the bit to run a little bit,” according to his father and coach, and has bulked up about 30 pounds over last year. He was second team last year. Seniors Nathan Bragg (linebacker) and Dylan Neill (defensive line) expect to anchor the defense along with senior returner Tanner Noble (linebacker/fullback) and senior transfer lineman Aaron Weagel.
Brookings-Harbor Shaun Bavaro is in his second year at the helm after becoming the 10th football coach in 12 years at Brookings-Harbor and is excited about how far his team has already come, as well as the Bruins’ amount of returning young talent. Brookings-Harbor went 5-5 last year and advanced to the Class 3A state playoffs, and Bavaro and company have a goal of nothing less than that this season. Helping make that happen is an offensive line that returns all but one starter, including first-team all-leaguer Averi Winn (6-0, 260). How that group attacks teams will depend on who is at quarterback, and that is a three-man race that doesn’t expect to be resolved until a few weeks into the season. Andrew Burger, a 6-2 junior, returns after earning
ANDY ATKINSON / MAIL TRIBUNE
St. Mary’s senior Tre Foster hauls in a pass for a TD during a jamboree at North Valley last Friday.
Eiler and Heycke),” the coach said. “Will is very fluid and gets north and south quick. He’s patient. And Brady had some incredible games for us last year.” Freshman Jaden Foster (6-1, 170) has stood out at free safety, Young added. The Crusaders exceeded expectations last year, the coach said. “We played for the league championship against Cascade Christian,” said Young. “This is our second consecutive year with a senior class of nine. That always bodes well. All of these seniors have extensive varsity experience and playoff experience. They made it to state their freshman and junior seasons. We are in a good place with our leadership.” Depth is an issue, Young said, but so far the group has risen to any challenges. “We don’t have a tremendous amount of depth,” he said. “But we went to the Astoria team camp in July and competed really well against a lot of bigger schools. If it wasn’t for our younger guys, our program wouldn’t be where it is today. Right now we are really pleased with where we are at and believe we can be a good football team.”
he’s got great hands and is incredibly smart and knows our offense. Like the rest of our seniors, he’s a tremendous competitor.” Senior Josh Covington should be a weapon at slot receiver, Young added. Senior Brady Eiler and junior Will Heycke will get plenty of repetitions at running back after first-team standout Gavin Rajagopal graduated. The
Crusaders will also have to adjust to life without two-way first-teamer Aiden Young (offensive lineman/linebacker). Aldrich and younger brother Cayden Aldrich (sophomore) will help shore up linebacker duties. Eiler and Walker were two leaders in the weight room during the offseason, Young said. Reach freelance writer Dan Jones at “We’ve got a great situation (with dljcards@gmail.com.
second-team all-league honors last year but he has been getting a steady push from 5-10 senior Ethan Hooper and 6-0 junior Logan Holler. “Andrew has that ‘it’ factor where he can keep things going by moving around and he’s not a bad runner,” said Bavaro, “while Hooper is more cerebral and knows all his reads, and Logan’s a guy who can run and pass a little bit. We’re going to play all three at least in the first game and get into game time and see what we have. We may have offensive sets for each one of them so our offense may depend on who we have out there.” Senior Manny Zamora has moved back to his more natural position of running back and will be complemented by sophomores Gavin Mills and Bradly Conduracki. The defensive philosophy has been adjusted a bit, focusing more on speed to get to the ball than purely on size. Burger and Zamora will be keys at linebacker, while junior Oggie Badger and Derek Tuttle will handle defensive end duties.
is a run-based veer offense that will feature returning quarterback Jesse Brecht and fellow junior fullbacks Leevi Brown and Noah Knight. The idea isn’t as much about breaking 60-yard runs for touchdowns as it is controlling the tempo of a game and controlling the clock to help level the playing field against some of Douglas’ top-tier opponents. Halfback/cornerback Brett Perry and lineman Isaac Skurk, both seniors, have helped lead the Trojans with strong offseason work, while senior Johnny Slone will also be tasked to help move the chains at halfback while also returning at outside linebacker. Tye Cross returns at receiver/cornerback, while fellow junior Landen Lane serves as a wild-card for the team in as much as he could see time at quarterback, receiver or the offensive line. Lane also moves from linebacker to free safety to help anchor the Trojans’ defense.
season-ending injury in Game 3; deflatingly, lost Game 4 as time ran out. “If we don’t lose Chris, I think maybe we win some games we lost and there’s a different outcome there,” said Stebbins. This season, he has a number of players who got their varsity feet wet a year ago. Two of the leaders are returning linemen Noah Rudy and Zach Downard, both seniors. Rudy is 6-2, 225 pounds, and Downard is 6-1, 240. They will anchor the offensive and defensive lines, but after that, the Lancers are thin up front, especially after losing one of their top big men when he transferred to Days Creek. Conversely, he has a number of skill kids to turn to, including returning starting quarterback Josh Deister. Taylor Wylie and Cage Simmons will share rushing duties; each saw varsity action a year ago. South Umpqua’s best player is senior H-back Christian Allen, who made second-team all-league last year at three South Umpqua positions: wide receiver, linebacker and South Umpqua is coming off a dif- punter. Stebbins will move him wherDouglas ficult season, having gone winless in ever necessary. Coming off a one-win season that District 2 and only 2-7 overall in 2018. The 5-foot-11, 190-pounder is a “real saw Douglas twice lose by a touchdown Coach Steve Stebbins, entering his big weight-room kid,” said Stebbins. or less, including a last-minute loss to 10th season, expected an uphill battle “He’s super strong, a good high school Brookings-Harbor, Trojans head coach with only four returning starters, athlete. I wish I had more of him.” Silia Polamalu is looking to shake things including one on offense. When injuries up a little bit in hopes that leads to more ravaged the Lancers early, their hopes Reach reporter Kris Henry at 541-7764488, khenry@rosebudmedia.com, victories in 2019. further diminished. Gone is the spread offense that feaThey opened the season 2-1; lost www.facebook.com/krishenryMT or tured the passing game and in its place their best player, Chris Martinez, to a www.twitter.com/Kris_Henry
Southern Oregon Football | Friday, September 6, 2019 | 25
Small Chiefs plan to play big By Dan Jones for the Mail Tribune
Hopeful seems to be the prevailing attitude at Rogue River. “Things are looking really good,” Chieftains head coach Ryan Riggle said. “We’ve got a ton of athleticism on both sides of the ball. One thing is we still need size up front, but we’ve adjusted. We’re a small line that is super fast.” Rogue River went 4-5 overall and 1-3 in Class 2A District 5 play last fall. There are six returners on offense and eight on defense. A two-man quarterback system may be used by the Chieftains, who have seen quality progression from both junior Caden Tognoni and sophomore Charlie Smith. They replace graduated veteran signal-caller Derek Nelson. “Caden’s been training since last year,” said the 43-year-old Riggle, who is 11-20 in his five seasons at Rogue River. “He’s got some experience. This summer we knew it would be wide open with Derek here so long. It’s been back and forth between (Tognoni) and Charlie Smith. It may be a game-time decision (for the team’s starting QB spot against Lakeview tonight). We could use both and keep defenses on their toes. But Caden usually gets first reps.” Senior fullback Gabe Tambellini is an impressive returning starter, Riggle said. “That guy is a powerhouse,” the coach added. Tambellini will be joined in the backfield by halfbacks
ANDY ATKINSON / MAIL TRIBUNE
Rogue River’s Carsen Smith makes a move down the sideline in a jamboree at North Valley last Friday.
Carsen Smith (a senior first-team all-league pick) and Charlie Smith (when he isn’t playing quarterback). Carsen Smith is terrific at utilizing blocks and finding lanes, Riggle said. Seniors Diego Agosto and Aiden Canoe are experienced receivers. Canoe is also a first-team cornerback. “They are as good as anybody,” the coach added. “Both are fast and run great routes. They both block well.” The Rogue River defense holds strong throughout the ranks, Riggle said. Safety Carsen Smith, cornerback Agosto, linebacker Tambellini, linebacker Tognoni, tackle Greg Smith and safety Mark Bandy are six of the Chieftains’ eight returning starters on defense, along with Canoe and junior guard/
CASCADE From Page 22
of,” Gettman said. “Our screen game, traps, counter plays — those kids are quick enough to get out in front and lead the way.” A beneficiary of the outside running game will be Elijah Smith, a 5-6,
tackle John Stanley (6-0, 245 pounds). He is one of three Stanleys on the squad, along with sister Katrina (a sophomore) and brother CJ (a freshman). “John is a workhorse and someone who spent the summer in the weight room,” Riggle said, adding that Katrina is a new player developing her technique and that CJ could compete for a starting role on offense. “This team has been amazing in the weight room. These guys are putting up a ton of weight.” Utility player Caden Jones is a 6-6, 200-pound senior from Australia. “He actually played Australian rules football,” Riggle said. “It’s been fun to have that cultural view infused into what we do. And he’s a pretty good punter.” The Chieftains kick off
160-pound senior who rushed for 526 yards and seven touchdowns a year ago while backing up his brother, Luke. “He’s quick and has good vision,” said Gettman of Smith. “We’re excited to get him going. I think he’s going to have a great year.” Defensively, Schaan is back at strong safety, Fralich returns at cornerback and Sample and Smith return
their league schedule with a home meeting against Lakeview on Oct. 4. “I think if everybody stays healthy, we are as good as anybody,” Riggle said. “But some teams will be a little stronger and a little faster. Our only issue is depth. A couple key injuries and that can be devastating.” Riggle and his personnel would like a strong showing in conference play, but added that their focus is simply on effort. “It’ll be one game at a time,” the coach said. “Our goals are about effort, team unity … things like that. Let the wins and losses take care of themselves. We’ll work on being great people and great teammates. That’s how we focus our coaching.” Reach freelance writer Dan Jones at dljcards@gmail.
CHIEFTAINS GLANCE HEAD COACH Ryan Riggle (fifth year, 11-20). Riggle’s collection of players includes eight returning starters on defense. GENERAL INFORMATION Riggle ASSISTANTS: Dwayne Nelson (offensive coordinator), Mike McCormick (defensive coordinator/offensive line/defensive line), Sean Smith (defensive backs/quarterbacks), Kim Tambellini (strength and conditioning), Danny Casey (running backs/linebackers), Mike Sparks (offensive/defensive line), Dylan Jackson (general). 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 1-3 (fourth, District 5). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 4-5. 2018 RESULTS Rogue River Opponents 60 Myrtle Point 6 42 Culver 18 0 Brookings-Harbor 29 6 La Pine 32 6 Lakeview 14 8 Glide 64 22 Illinois Valley 13 9 Lost River 23 49 Reedsport 8 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (6): Running back Carsen Smith (5-10, 170, sr.), receiver Diego Agosto (6-2, 170, sr.), receiver Aiden Canoe (6-0, 175, sr.), running back Gabe Tambellini (6-0, 200, sr.), center Greg Smith (5-10, 180, jr.), guard John Stanley (6-0, 245, jr.). DEFENSE (8): Safety Carsen Smith, cornerback Diego Agosto, cornerback Aiden Canoe, linebacker Gabe Tambellini, tackle Greg Smith, tackle John Stanley, safety Mark Bandy (6-0, 155, jr.), linebacker Caden Tognoni (5-10, 170, jr.). OTHER NOTABLES Quarterback/running back/safety Charlie Smith (5-10, 170, so.), offensive lineman/ cornerback Ryan Gillette (5-10, 165, sr.), defensive end William Decker (5-10, 165, jr.), utility Caden Jones (6-6, 200, sr.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept. 6 LAKEVIEW, 7 p.m. Sept. 13 CULVER, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 at Brookings-Harbor, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 LA PINE, 7 p.m. Oct. 4 LAKEVIEW, 7 p.m. Oct. 11 at Glide, 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at Illinois Valley, 7 p.m. Oct. 25 LOST RIVER, 7 p.m. Nov. 1 at Reedsport, 7 p.m.
at linebacker. Pierson, Michael Croy, Titus Miller and Davis Federico are battling for the other two linebacking spots in the Challengers’ 3-4 alignment. Another battle is brewing at defensive end between Copely, Cannon and Brehm. Couzens came on during the playoffs last season at nose guard, using his 6-5, 215-pound frame to good advantage.
“We’re replacing a lot of guys but we have more depth and that’s creating competition in practice,’’ Gettman said. Schaan likely will be the team’s punter while freshman soccer player J.T. Knobloch has been working out at placekicker, aiming to replace Ethan Hoffman, a first-team allstate selection in 2018.
| Friday, September 6, 2019 |
Southern Oregon Football
Loggers riding momentum By Tim Trower Mail Tribune
After playing its first league season in three years in 2018, Butte Falls/ Crater Lake Charter Academy made a major discovery: It can hang with the other guys. The Loggers’ confidence level hasn’t waned as another season approaches. “I’m thinking we will be competitive with every team out there,” said third-year coach Jody Crowe, who has back-to-back four-win seasons to his credit. “Obviously, there are a couple of teams that are always tough in our league. We’re gonna hang with every team out there, and I think we’re going to be hard to handle ourselves.” A pair of big, veteran offensive linemen — certainly a bonus in eightman football — and strong leadership throughout the ranks buoys Butte Falls’ expectations for District 2 play. “Last year, we have a 4-4 record and a couple of those games we didn’t show up,” said Crowe. “We didn’t do what we do and they cost us a win.” District 2 is divided into six-team East and West divisions. The winners of each division advance to the state playoffs. The Nos. 2 and 3 teams play crossover games in the league playoffs. “I think this year, with the personnel we have, the enthusiasm we have, we’re going to be in the mix at the end of the year for the playoffs, and we’re going to surprise some teams,” said Crowe, an assistant coach at Southern Oregon University in the 1990s and a former College of the Siskiyous player. “We’re going to be tough to beat, and I know some of them will be tough to beat. I totally anticipate some really good football games this
Lester
W. Carlton
Worman
year.” Butte Falls was originally scheduled to open the season tonight in a nonleague game against rival Prospect of the District 2 East, but the Cougars had a school function, said Crowe, that forced cancellation of the game. The Loggers’ first game will be Sept. 13 at North Lake. When Butte Falls does take the field, the two big linemen figure to stand out. Back for their third seasons with Crowe are 6-foot-4 junior guards Seth Lester (265 pounds) and Wyatt Carlton
(245). The Loggers have two primary objectives: run the ball on offense, stop the run on defense. Lester and Carlton are expected to be in the middle of it all. “Seth and Wyatt bring just pure strength,” said Crowe. “They’re both excellent guards.” “Seth is a big boy,” he added. “When he gets ahold of somebody, they know it. We like to use his size to our advantage, obviously, and to have two guys who have played each of their first two seasons for me, they know the system. They control things up front, and they want to protect the guys behind them.” Quarterbacks Colt Carlton and Levi Underhill were jockeying for the No. 1 spot in the preseason. Carlton, a sophomore, was the backup in 2018,
and the junior Underhill played wide receiver. Both have strong arms, said Crowe, and command the offense. “It’s kind of a great feeling when you can step back and they’ll explain the play to a player who has a question,” said Crowe. “They know what’s going on.” He’s comfortable with either running the show. There will be several running backs to hand off to in the run-first offense, but Kaleb Tiry will be the first option, spelled by Kai Hansen. Tiry started at wide receiver last season before switching positions. Tiry is shifty and quick, said Crowe. “If he hits a hole, he’s got enough moves and speed that he can get outside, which is great,” said Crowe. Hansen brings more power, but will juke defenders as well. “In our league, you can’t grind a kid for 40 plays a game,” said Crowe. “I’ll have quite a few running backs.” Senior fullback Warren Whitlock also returns. On defense, Lester will help man the middle in the Loggers’ 3-4 alignment, and Wyatt Carlton will be on the flank. Senior nose guard Jack Worman returns to the middle. Crowe prefers four linebacker types for speed and tackling ability, he said. Zack Genereux returns at linebacker after missing last year with an injury, and Whitlock, a starter last year, is back. Eagle Point transfer Chase Bailey, a senior, will play linebacker and work in at running back. “We’ve got some really strong leaders,” said Crowe, “and guys are stepping up right now. The boys are all on the same page, and when that happens, things come together for you. It should be a great season for us.”
LOGGERS GLANCE HEAD COACH Jody Crowe (third year, 8-6). Crowe, a former player at College of the Siskiyous and coach at Southern Oregon has his sights on the postseason with a Crowe veteran crew. GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Mike Lester (offensive line/ defensive line), Wayne Underhill (wide receivers/cornerbacks). 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 2-3 (fourth, District 2 West). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 4-4. 2018 RESULTS Butte Falls/Crater Lake Opponents 42 Prospect 30 40 North Lake 16 12 Days Creek 44 1 Myrtle Point (forfeit) 0 12 Camas Valley 72 50 Glendale 26 24 Riddle 54 22 Chiloquin 40 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (5): Fullback Warren Whitlock (5-10, 215, sr.), tailback Kaleb Tiry (5-10, 145, sr.), running back Kai Hansen (5-10, 175, jr.), left guard Seth Lester (6-4, 265, jr.), right guard Wyatt Carlton (6-4, 245, jr.). DEFENSE (5): Cornerback Kaleb Tiry, safety Kai Hansen, end Levi Underhill (6-5, 185, jr.), middle linebacker Warren Whitlock, nose guard Jack Worman (5-10, 205, sr.). OTHER NOTABLES Running back/middle linebacker Chase Bailey (5-10, 205, sr.), middle linebacker Zack Genereux (6-2, 175, sr.), quarterback Levi Underhill, quarterback Colt Carlton (6-1, 155, so.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept. 13 at North Lake, 4 p.m. Sept. 20 at Oakridge, 7 p.m. Sept. 28 MYRTLE POINT, 3 p.m. Oct. 5 at Camas Valley, 1 p.m. Oct. 11 at Glendale, 7 p.m. Oct. 19 RIDDLE, 1 p.m. Oct. 25 DAYS CREEK, 4 p.m.
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Southern Oregon Football | Friday, September 6, 2019 | 27
Prospect takes on new look By Dan Jones for the Mail Tribune
Veteran coach Scott Baker speaks with an air of mystery while describing the offensive system he has brought to Prospect. The 48-year-old has 15 years of experience, including stops at South Eugene, North Douglas and South Umpqua, but he’s never led an eight-man program until now. “That was challenging at first,” said Baker, who takes over the Cougars after Jimmy Slaton’s threeyear stint as head coach. “I have an advanced offensive system. It’s hardcore with a big emphasis on attention to detail. We’re running a similar offense that I’ve been putting together for years. The transition was more for me than them. (I’m used to) three extra guys. But I think we’ve got it dialed in.” Prospect returns seven starters from the 2018 season, when the Cougars went 1-8 and 0-5 in Class 1A District 2 play. Junior tight ends Aaron Linam and Nick Strahan, junior running back Nathan Glover, senior guard Matthew Nelson, junior running back Kyle Ghirardo, junior guard/running back Jadon Taylor and junior center Kohl Kusel are all back. Defensively, Linam (linebacker), Strahan (nose guard), Glover (linebacker), Nelson (tackle), Ghirardo (linebacker), Taylor (linebacker) and Kusel (tackle) are all returning starters. And then there is Baker, who graduated from Washington State University.
ANDY ATKINSON / MAIL TRIBUNE
Prospect returns seven offensive starters as it sets out to improve on last season’s showing.
He’s coached at a pair of Washington schools to complement his Oregon resume. For the last several years, he was out of coaching and living in Alaska. He jumped when the Prospect gig opened. “The kids we have have been awesome to work with,” Baker said. “Very coachable and eager to get the new system going. I think they’re excited about it.” The 6-foot-1, 230-pound Nelson and defensive end Joseph Williams are the team’s lone seniors. Nelson is a veteran and Williams is new to football. Passing and rushing are Prospect’s strengths now, Baker said, adding that the team’s line play is still inconsistent. The Cougars’ victory last
year was a season-ending 24-14 triumph over Myrtle Point, providing some motivation to returning talents. “Each day we get better,” Baker said. “We’ve had practices where we say, ‘Wow, this is impressive.’ Our real strength is our kids’ attitudes.” Logan Gordan, a 6-foot3, 175-pound sophomore, gets the nod at starting quarterback. “He has quickly established himself as one of the team leaders,” Baker said. “He is one of our strengths.” Linam and Taylor are two leaders on the 12-man Prospect roster, Baker added. Ghirardo and Glover provide good speed in the backfield and Taylor and Strahan are utility players who can succeed anywhere,
Baker said. Freshman running back/ linebacker Ricky CombsCripps, junior defensive tackle Tristan Haskell and freshman offensive guard/ defensive tackle Jonathan Larsen are other players to watch. The Cougars begin their season hosting Days Creek on Sept. 13. An opening-night matchup with Butte Falls was canceled because Prospect would be without five or six players who had already committed to a youth camp, Baker said. There is a chance the game may be rescheduled, Baker added. Prospect kicks off league play by hosting Bonanza on Sept. 27. Reach freelance writer Dan Jones at dljcards@gmail.com.
COUGARS GLANCE HEAD COACH Scott Baker (first year). Baker offers 15 years of coaching experience in Oregon and Washington. ASSISTANTS: Baker Andrew Nelmes, Drew Nelmes. 2018 LEAGUE RECORD: 0-5 (sixth, District 2 West). 2018 OVERALL RECORD: 1-8. 2018 RESULTS Prospect Opponents 30 Butte Falls/Crater Lake 42 0 Days Creek 46 14 Myrtle Point 22 14 Chiloquin 49 22 Bonanza 62 8 Triad 50 8 Hosanna Christian 64 20 North Lake 42 24 Myrtle Point 14 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (7): Tight end Aaron Linam (6-0, 150, jr.), tight end Nick Strahan (5-11, 165, jr.), running back Nathan Glover (5-10, 170, jr.), offensive guard Matthew Nelson (6-1, 230, sr.), running back Kyle Ghirardo (6-0, 180, jr.), offensive guard/running back Jadon Taylor (5-8, 215, jr.), center Kohl Kusel (5-9, 190, jr.). DEFENSE (7): Linebacker Aaron Linam, nose guard Nick Strahan, linebacker Nathan Glover, defensive tackle Matthew Nelson, linebacker Kyle Ghirardo, linebacker Jadon Taylor, defensive tackle Kohl Kusel. OTHER NOTABLES Quarterback/safety Logan Gordan (6-3, 175, so.), running back/linebacker Ricky Combs-Cripps (5-3, 120, fr.), defensive tackle Tristan Haskell (5-8, 185, jr.), defensive end Joseph Williams (6-1, 175, sr.), offensive/defensive line Jonathan Larsen (5-7, 195, fr.). 2019 SCHEDULE Sept. 13 DAYS CREEK, 7 p.m. Sept. 20 MYRTLE POINT, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 BONANZA, 7 p.m. Oct. 4 at Triad, 7 p.m. Oct. 11 at Hosanna Christian, 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at North Lake, 4 p.m. Oct. 26 at Chiloquin, TBD Nov. 1 TBD, 7 p.m.
COACHES POLLS SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE Team Pts 1. Sheldon 15 2. Grants Pass 12 3. South Medford 10 4. North Medford 8 5. Roseburg 5 First-place votes: Sheldon 3, Grants Pass 1, North Medford 1.
MIDWESTERN LEAGUE SOUTH Team Pts T1. Crater 23 T1. Churchill 23 3. South Eugene 13 T4. Ashland 12 T4. Eagle Point 12 6. North Eugene 7 First-place votes: Crater 3, Churchill 3.
SKYLINE CONFERENCE Team Pts 1. Mazama 16 2. Klamath Union 13 3. Henley 8 4. North Valley 7 5. Phoenix 6 First-place votes: Mazama 4, Klamath Union 1.
3A DISTRICT 2 SOUTH Team Pts 1. Cascade Christian 23 2. Hidden Valley 21 3. St. Mary’s 19 4. Brookings-Harbor 13 T5. Douglas 7 T5. South Umpqua 7 First-place votes: Cascade Christian 4, Hidden Valley 1, St. Mary’s 1.
28 | Friday, September 6, 2019 |
PAST CHAMPIONS SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE 2018 — Sheldon (4-0) 2017 — South Medford (6-0) 2016 — South Medford (6-0) 2015 — Sheldon (6-0) 2014 — Grants Pass (7-0) 2013 — North Medford (7-0) 2012 — Sheldon (7-0) 2011 — Sheldon (7-0) 2010 — Sheldon (7-0) 2009 — Sheldon (5-0) 2008 — South Medford (5-0) 2007 — Sheldon (5-0) 2006 — Sheldon (5-0)
5A MIDWESTERN LEAGUE
2018 — Churchill (5-0) 2017 — Churchill (7-0) 2016 — Ashland (6-1) 2015 — Crater (5-0) 2014 — Springfield (5-0) 2013 — Ashland (6-0) 2012 — Marist (7-0) 2011 — Marist (7-0)
5A SOUTHERN OREGON HYBRID
2010 — Ashland (1-0)
5A SOUTHERN SKY CONFERENCE
2009 — Crater (4-0) 2008 — Crater (3-1), Klamath Union (3-1), Ashland (3-1) 2007 — Ashland (4-0) 2006 — Crater (4-0)
SOUTHERN OREGON CONFERENCE
2005 — North Medford (5-1), Roseburg (5-1) 2004 — South Medford (6-0) 2003 — North Medford (6-0) 2002 — South Medford (7-0) 2001 — Roseburg (7-0) 2000 — North Medford (7-0) 1999 — Roseburg (7-0) 1998 — Ashland (7-0) 1997 — Ashland (8-0) 1996 — Roseburg (8-0) 1995 — Roseburg (8-0)1994 — Grants Pass (8-0) 1993 — Ashland (8-0) 1992 — Ashland (8-0)
1991 — South Medford (7-1), Ashland (7-1) 1990 — Roseburg (8-0) 1989 — Ashland (8-0) 1988 — South Medford (9-0) 1987 — Ashland (9-0) 1986 — South Medford (8-1) 1985 — Medford (7-1), Crater (7-1), Roseburg (7-1) 1984 — Medford (7-1) 1983 — Medford (8-0) 1982 — Medford (8-0) 1981 — Roseburg (8-0) 1980 — Medford (8-0) 1979 — Medford (8-0) 1978 — Medford (5-0) 1977 — Medford (5-0) 1976 — Klamath Union (4-1), Grants Pass (4-1) 1975 — Klamath Union (4-1), Grants Pass (4-1) 1974 — Medford (5-0) 1973 — Medford (5-0) 1972 — Grants Pass (5-0) 1971 — Grants Pass (4-0-1), Medford (4-0-1) 1970 — Medford (4-0-1)
SKYLINE CONFERENCE
2018 — Mazama (4-0) 2017 — Mazama (4-1), Phoenix (4-1), Henley (4-1) 2016 — Mazama (5-0) 2015 — Mazama (5-0) 2014 — Mazama (5-0) 2013 — Klamath Union (4-1), Henley (4-1) 2012 — North Valley (5-0) 2011 — Klamath Union (5-0) 2010 — Mazama (5-0) 2009 — Phoenix (4-0) 2008 — North Valley (4-0) 2007 — Illinois Valley (5-0) 2006 — Hidden Valley (4-1), Henley (4-1) 2005 — Phoenix (6-0) 2004 — North Valley (5-1) 2003 — Mazama (5-1) 2002 — Mazama (6-0) 2001 — North Valley (6-0) 2000 — Henley (7-0) 1999 — Henley (7-0)1998 — Hidden Valley (7-0) 1997 — Hidden Valley (7-0) 1996 — South Umpqua (7-0) 1995 — Henley (7-0)
1994 — Henley (7-0) 1993 — Phoenix (5-0) 1992 — North Valley (7-1)1991 — Henley (8-0) 1990 — Henley (7-0) 1989 — South Umpqua (6-1), Phoenix (6-1) 1988 — Henley (6-0) 1987 — North Valley (6-0) 1986 — Henley (6-0) 1985 — Phoenix (6-1), North Valley (6-1) 1984 — North Valley (7-0) 1983 — Henley (7-0) 1982 — Henley (7-0) 1981 — Henley (5-0) 1980 — Phoenix (5-0) 1979 — Phoenix (4-0) 1978 — Phoenix (6-0) 1977 — Lakeview (7-0) 1976 — South Umpqua (9-0) 1975 — South Umpqua (9-0) 1974 — Phoenix (9-0) 1973 — Phoenix (9-0) 1972 — South Umpqua (6-1) 1971 — Phoenix (7-0) 1970 — Lakeview (7-0)
CLASS 3A DISTRICT 2
2018 — Cascade Christian (5-0)
SOUTHERN CASCADE LEAGUE
2017 — Cascade Christian (3-0) 2016 — Cascade Christian (3-0) 2015 — Cascade Christian (3-0) 2014 — Cascade Christian (3-0)
SOUTHERN CASCADE HYBRID
2013 — Cascade Christian (3-0) 2012 — Cascade Christian (3-0) 2011 — Cascade Christian (3-0) 2010 — Cascade Christian (4-0)
SUNSET LEAGUE
2009 — Cascade Christian (7-0)2008 — Gold Beach (7-0) 2007 — Gold Beach (6-0)
SOUTHERN CASCADE LEAGUE
2009 — Lost River (4-0) 2008 — Lakeview (4-0) 2007 — Lakeview (4-0) 2006 — Bonanza (5-0) 2005 — Cascade Christian (7-0)
2004 — Lost River (7-0) 2003 — Bonanza (6-0) 2002 — Lost River (5-0) 2001 — Lost River 2000 — Lost River (5-0) 1999 — Lost River (5-0) 1998 — Lost River (5-0) 1997 — Lost River (3-0)
BIG FIR LEAGUE
1997 — Glendale (5-1) 1996 — Glendale (6-0) 1995 — Yoncalla (6-0) 1994 — Yoncalla (6-0) 1993 — Yoncalla (5-0) 1992 — Glendale (5-0) 1991 — Glendale (5-0) 1990 — Yoncalla (5-0) 1989 — Riddle (4-0) 1988 — Riddle (3-1), Yoncalla (3-1) 1987 — Glendale (4-1), Yoncalla (4-1) 1986 — Glendale (4-1), St. Mary’s (4-1) 1985 — Yoncalla (4-1), Riddle (4-1), Oakland (4-1) 1984 — Yoncalla (5-0) 1983 — Yoncalla (5-0) 1982 — St. Mary’s (5-0) 1981 — St. Mary’s (5-0) 1980 — St. Mary’s (6-0) 1979 — St. Mary’s (6-0) 1978 — St. Mary’s (6-0) 1977 — St. Mary’s (6-0) 1976 — St. Mary’s (6-0) 1975 — St. Mary’s (5-0) 1974 — Elkton (7-0) 1973 — St. Mary’s (6-1)
TRI VALLEY LEAGUE
1972 — St. Mary’s (5-0) 1971 — Elkton (7-0) 1970 — St. Mary’s (5-0)
CLASS 2A DISTRICT 5
2018 — Lakeview (4-0)
CLASS 1A DISTRICT 2 EAST
2018 — Hosanna Christian (5-0)
CLASS 1A DISTRICT 2 WEST
2018 — Camas Valley (5-0)
DIST. 2/MOUNTAIN VALLEY LEAGUE
2017 — Camas Valley (5-0) 2016 — Hosanna Christian (4-0) 2015 — Hosanna Christian (5-0) 2014 — Camas Valley (5-0) 2013 — Camas Valley (8-0) 2012 — Camas Valley (8-0) 2011 — Camas Valley (7-0) 2010 — Triad (8-0) 2009 — Triad (8-0) 2008 — Butte Falls (8-0) 2007 — Butte Falls (8-0) 2006 — Days Creek (8-0)
SKYLINE A LEAGUE
2005 — Days Creek (8-0) 2004 — Gilchrist (6-1), Powers (6-1) 2003 — Powers (6-0) 2002 — Mapleton (9-0) 2001 — Powers 2000 — Powers (6-0) 1999 — Days Creek (7-0) 1998 — Powers (7-0) 1997 — Powers (7-0) 1996 — Powers (7-0) 1995 — Powers (6-1), Days Creek (6-1) 1994 — Powers (7-0) 1993 — Butte Falls (7-1), Elkton (7-1) 1992 — Camas Valley (8-0) 1991 — Camas Valley (7-0) 1990 — Butte Falls (6-0) 1989 — Camas Valley (6-0) 1988 — Paisley (6-0) 1987 — Butte Falls (6-0) 1986 — Butte Falls (6-0) 1985 — Prospect (5-0) 1984 — Prospect (5-0) 1983 — Prospect (4-1) 1982 — Prospect (6-0) 1981 — Prospect (6-0) 1980 — Camas Valley (6-0) 1979 — Prospect (6-0) 1978 — Elkton (6-0) 1977 — Prospect (5-1) 1976 — Prospect (5-0) 1975 — Prospect (5-0) 1974 — Prospect (4-1) 1973 — Butte Falls (4-0) 1972 — Prospect (4-0) 1971 — Butte Falls (7-0-1) 1970 — Butte Falls (8-0)
Southern Oregon Football | Friday, September 6, 2019 | 29
SEASON SCHEDULE
Sept. 6 SOUTHWEST South Medford at Centennial McNary at North Medford Grants Pass at Oregon City Mountain View at Roseburg Sheldon at Graham Kapowsin MIDWESTERN Crater at Wilsonville Klamath Union at Eagle Point Ashland at Willamette Churchill at Thurston South Eugene at Wilson Springfield at North Eugene SKYLINE Phoenix at Cascade Christian Woodburn at North Valley Henley at Seaside Klamath Union at Eagle Point Ontario at Mazama 3A DISTRICT 2 St. Mary’s at Amity Phoenix at Cascade Christian Hidden Valley at Sutherlin Douglas at LaPine Gold Beach at Brookings-Harbor Yreka at South Umpqua 2A DISTRICT 5 Myrtle Point at Rogue River Culver at Illinois Valley Creswell at Lost River Glide at Bandon 1A DISTRICT 2 Butte Falls/Crater Lake at Prospect Sept. 7 SKYLINE Henley at Seaside
Sept. 13 SOUTHWEST North Medford at Jefferson, Portland Canby at South Medford Summit at Grants Pass McMinnville at Roseburg Thurston at Sheldon MIDWESTERN Redmond at Eagle Point Willamette at Crater Springfield at Ashland North Bend at North Eugene Wilsonville at Churchill Ridgeview at South Eugene SKYLINE Newport at Phoenix Cascade Christian at Klamath Union Elmira at North Valley Cascade at Mazama 3A DISTRICT 2 Lost River at St. Mary’s Cascade Christian at Klamath Union Pleasant Hill at Hidden Valley Douglas at Santiam Christian South Umpqua at Dayton Brookings-Harbor at Bandon 2A DISTRICT 5 Culver at Rogue River Lost River at St. Mary’s Illinois Valley at Gold Beach Burns at Lakeview Coquille at Glide 1A DISTRICT 2 Days Creek at Prospect
Butte Falls/Crater Lake at North Lake
Sept. 14 SKYLINE North Marion at Henley
Sept. 20 SOUTHWEST North Medford at Bend Liberty at South Medford Mountain View at Grants Pass Roseburg at Reynolds West Linn at Sheldon MIDWESTERN Eagle Point at Springfield Thurston at Crater Ashland at Ridgeview Willamette at Churchill North Eugene at Redmond South Eugene at North Bend SKYLINE Phoenix at Sweet Home Hidden Valley at North Valley Marshfield at Klamath Union Del Norte at Mazama Henley at Yreka 3A DISTRICT 2 Cascade Christian at Harrisburg Regis at St. Mary’s Hidden Valley at North Valley Rogue River at Brookings-Harbor Corbett at South Umpqua Sutherlin at Douglas 2A DISTRICT 5 Rogue River at Brookings-Harbor Creswell at Illinois Valley Glide at Reedsport Lakeview at Nyssa 1A DISTRICT 2 Butte Falls/Crater Lake at Oakridge Myrtle Point at Prospect
Sept. 21 2A DISTRICT 5 Grant Union at Lost River
Sept. 27 SOUTHWEST Mountain View at North Medford South Medford at McMinnville Bend at Roseburg Grants Pass at Southridge West Salem at Sheldon MIDWESTERN Ashland at Redmond Crater at North Bend Churchill at Ridgeview Eagle Point at Thurston Willamette at North Eugene Springfield at South Eugene SKYLINE Mazama at Phoenix North Valley at Junction City Klamath Union at Henley 3A DISTRICT 2 Pleasant Hill at Cascade Christian St. Mary’s at Gold Beach Brookings-Harbor at Lakeview Douglas at Harrisburg Salem Academy at Hidden Valley South Umpqua at Sutherlin 2A DISTRICT 5 Brookings-Harbor at Lakeview
Oakland at Glide Lost River at Burns Illinois Valley at Reedsport La Pine at Rogue River 1A DISTRICT 2 Bonanza at Prospect
Sept. 28 1A DISTRICT 2 Myrtle Point at Butte Falls/Crater Lake
Oct. 4 SOUTHWEST McNary at South Medford North Medford at Sheldon Jesuit at Sheldon Roseburg at Grants Pass MIDWESTERN Churchill at Ashland South Eugene at Eagle Point North Eugene at Crater SKYLINE Phoenix at Klamath Union Mazama at North Valley Henley at McLoughlin/Griswald 3A DISTRICT 2 Hidden Valley at Cascade Christian St. Mary’s at Douglas Brookings-Harbor at South Umpqua 2A DISTRICT 5 Glide at Illinois Valley Gold Beach at Lost River Lakeview at Rogue River 1A DISTRICT 2 Triad at Prospect
Oct. 5 1A DISTRICT 2 Butte Falls/Crater Lake at Camas Valley
Oct. 10 MIDWESTERN Crater at South Eugene North Eugene at Churchill
Oct. 11 SOUTHWEST Grants Pass at North Medford South Medford at Roseburg Sheldon at Jesuit MIDWESTERN Eagle Point at Ashland South Eugene at SKYLINE Henley at Phoenix Klamath Union at North Valley Marist at Mazama 3A DISTRICT 2 Douglas at Brookings-Harbor Brookings-Harbor at St. Mary’s Cascade Christian at South Umpqua 2A DISTRICT 5 Bandon at Illinois Valley Rogue River at Glide Lost River at Lakeview 1A DISTRICT 2 Prospect at Hosanna Christian Butte Falls/Crater Lake at Glendale
Oct. 18 SOUTHWEST South Medford at Sheldon Roseburg at North Medford
Grants Pass at Westview MIDWESTERN Eagle Point at Churchill South Eugene at North Eugene Ashland at Crater SKYLINE North Valley at Henley Mazama at Klamath Union 3A DISTRICT 2 Brookings-Harbor at St. Mary’s Cascade Christian at Douglas South Umpqua at Hidden Valley 2A DISTRICT 5 Rogue River at Illinois Valley Coquille at Lakeview Glide at Lost River 1A DISTRICT 2 Prospect at North Lake
Oct. 19 SKYLINE Phoenix at McLoughlin/Griswald 1A DISTRICT 2 Riddle at Butte Falls/Crater Lake
Oct. 25 SOUTHWEST North Medford at Aloha South Medford at Grants Pass Sheldon at Roseburg MIDWESTERN Crater at Eagle Point Ashland at North Eugene Churchill at South Eugene SKYLINE Phoenix at North Valley Henley at Mazama Elmira at Klamath Union 3A DISTRICT 2 South Umpqua at St. Mary’s Cascade Christian at Brookings-Harbor Hidden Valley at Douglas 2A DISTRICT 5 Lost River at Rogue River Illinois Valley at Lakeview Toledo at Glide 1A DISTRICT 2 North Lake at Prospect Days Creek at Butte Falls/Crater Lake
Oct. 26 1A DISTRICT 2 Prospect at Chioquin
Nov. 1 SOUTHWEST North Medford at South Medford Roseburg at Canby Sheldon at Grants Pass MIDWESTERN South Eugene at Ashland Churchill at Crater North Eugene at Eagle Point SKYLINE McLoughlin/Griswald at North Valley 3A DISTRICT 2 St. Mary’s at Cascade Christian Brookings-Harbor at Hidden Valley Douglas at South Umpqua 2A DISTRICT 5 Reedsport at Rogue River Illinois Valley at Lost River Lakeview at Glide
30 | Friday, September 6, 2019 | Southern Oregon Football
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2019 College Football Schedule University of Oregon Sat. Sep 7 4:30 PM PT – Nevada@Home Sat. Sep 14 7:45 PM PT – Montana@Home Sat. Sep 21 TBD – Stanford@Stanford, California Sat. Oct 5 TBD – California@Home Fri. Oct 11 7:00 PM PT – Colorado@Home Sat. Oct 19 TBD – Washington@Seattle, Washington Sat. Oct 26 TBD – Washington State@Home Sat. Nov 2 TBD – USC@Los Angeles, California Sat. Nov 16 TBD – Arizona@Home Sat. Nov 23 TBD – Arizona State@Tempe, Arizona Sat. Nov 30 TBD – Oregon State@Home Fri. Dec 6 5:00 PM PT – Pac-12 Football Championship Game@Santa Clara, California
Oregon State University Sat. Sep 7 9:00 PM PT – Hawaii@Honolulu, Hawaii Sat. Sep 14 1:15 PM PT – Cal Poly@Home Sat. Sep 28 TBD – Stanford@Home Sat. Oct 5 TBD – UCLA@Pasadena, California Sat. Oct 12 TBD – Utah@Home Sat. Oct 19 TBD – California@Berkeley, California Sat. Nov 2 TBD – Arizona@Tuscon, Arizona Fri. Nov 8 7:30 PM PT – Washington@Home Sat. Nov 16 TBD – Arizona State@Home Sat. Nov 23 TBD – Washington State@Pullman, Washington Sat. Nov 30 TBD – Oregon@Eugene, Oregon Fri. Dec 6 5:00PM PT – Pac-12 Football Championship Game@Santa Clara, California
Southern Oregon University Sat. Sep 7 1:00 PM PT – Eastern Oregon@Home Sat. Sep 14 12:00 PM PT – College of Idaho@Caldwell, Idaho Sat. Sep 21 12:00 PM PT – Montana Tech@Butte, Montana Sat. Sep 28 1:00 PM PT – Carroll@Home Sat. Oct 12 6:30 PM PT – Rocky Mountain@Home Sat. Oct 19 1:00 PM PT – Eastern Oregon@La Grande, Oregon Sat. Oct 26 2:00 PM PT – College of Idaho@Home Sat. Nov 2 1:00 PM PT – Montana Tech@Home Sat. Nov 9 12:00 PM PT – Montana State-Northern@Havre, Montana Sat. Nov 16 12:00 PM PT – Montana Western@Dillon, Montana MF-00115450
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32 | Friday, September 6, 2019 | Southern Oregon Football
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