Prep Football 2017 by Rosebud Media

Friday, Sept. 1, 2017

PREP FOOTBALL 2017 The Chase Begins Top recruit Chase Cota leads talented Panthers

| Friday, September 1, 2017

Prep Football 2017

TABLE OF CONTENTS Southwest Conference South Medford ....................................... 2

Time is now for South Medford Panthers use shocking playoff upset as motivator

North Medford ....................................... 3

By Kris Henry Grants Pass ............................................ 4

Mail Tribune

Southwest Conference Roundup ......... 6

It’s the elephant in the room, and the South Medford Panthers aren’t short-sighted enough to look past it. In more than enough ways, last season was a triumphant success for the program and its players. South Medford made an undefeated run to its second Southwest Conference title since the league was formed in 2006 — Sheldon is the only other school to win multiple SWC titles — and saw several players turn in incredible performances throughout the season. But when you get upset in the first round of the Class 6A state playoffs with a 90-yard touchdown reception on a fourth-and-20 play by the No. 30 seed, that’s a sting that will linger. “Last year was a sad ending to a great year,” said Panthers head coach Bill Singler. “It’s always sad when you lose your last game, but when it’s your first playoff game, it’s worse. But you’ve got to give Newberg all the credit.” The “craziest finish to any game I’ve seen,” according to Singler, actually marked a fourth straight year the Panthers were eliminated in the first round. This time, however, the coach said he’s seen real positives come from such a negative. “I think it’s motivated them,” said Singler. “Our weight room

Midwestern League Ashland ................................................ 11 Crater.................................................... 12 Eagle Point ........................................... 13 Midwestern League Roundup ............ 14 Skyline Conference Phoenix................................................. 17 Skyline Conference Roundup ............. 18 Southern Cascade League Cascade Christian ............................... 22 St. Mary’s ............................................. 24 Southern Cascade League Roundup . 26 District 2 Prospect ............................................... 27 Independent Rogue River .......................................... 25 Butte Falls/CLAC.................................. 28 Miscellaneous Broadcasts ........................................... 15 Coaches Polls....................................... 30 Past Champions .................................. 30 Season Schedule ................................. 31

Cormier

Ditty

effort has been the best in the 20 years I’ve been here. Those guys have been in there lifting and running Laupola like crazy with (strength and conditioning coach) Noah Berman. He’s just done a great job with them.” “It’s just what it is,” Singler added of the carryover from last year’s stunning 26-23 loss to Newberg, “but I think it’s going to make us a tougher team mentally, to be honest. And if you’re going to lose a game like that with a group like we have, you want to lose a game like that when they’re juniors and not seniors. They don’t want to experience that again.” On paper, South Medford has plenty to feel good about with a talented roster that’s long on senior experience and athleticism. Senior receiver Chase Cota has led the SWC in receiving the past two seasons and is one of the top recruits in Oregon with offers from throughout the Pac-12 SEE TIME, 9

Cover Photo Jamie Lusch / Mail Tribune SPORTS CONTACTS Sports: 541-776-4480 Tim Trower: 541-776-4479 Kris Henry: 541-776-4488 Mike Oxendine: 541-776-4499 Frank Silow: 541-776-4480 Warren Blenkush: 541-776-4492 Email: sports@mailtribune.com Fax: 541-776-4376 Website: www.mailtribune.com

Senior Jaylin Parnell was the conference player of the year on offense and defense after leading the Panthers in rushing yards and tackles. [MAIL TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO]

PANTHERS GLANCE HEAD COACH Bill Singler (20th year, 114-82). Among the 37 programs that have played at the 6A level since 2006, South Medford ranks 12th overall — second-best in the Singler SWC — with its 71-44 record. GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Jason Bauer (running backs/JV head coach), Chris Parnell (defensive coordinator/ linebackers), Mike Healy (defensive line), Damian Jackson (offensive line), Chad Cota (defensive backs/receivers), Todd Beck (JV), Mike Tejada (JV), Matt Retzlaff (JV), Sean Johnston (freshman head coach), Dave Alonzo (freshman), Ray Smith (freshman), Mike Johnston (freshman), Foley Wheeler (freshman). 2016 LEAGUE RECORD: 6-0 (ﬁrst, SWC). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 7-3. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Second. 2016 RESULTS South Medford Opponents 0 Wilsonville 2, forfeit 21 West Linn 42 41 Willamette 7 52 South Salem 10 31 North Medford 21 23 Grants Pass 7 43 Roseburg 0 41 Sheldon 20 43 South Eugene 14 State Playoffs 23 Newberg 26 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (8): Quarterback Robbie Patterson (5-11, 195, sr.), running back Jaylin Parnell (6-0, 200, sr.), receiver Chase Cota (6-4, 200, sr.), receiver Kaleb Franklin (5-10, 170, sr.), center Brandon Ditty (5-10, 230, sr.), left tackle Michael Cormier (6-0, 235, sr.), left guard Martin Laupola (6-0, 230, sr.), receiver/kicker Jaalen Owens (6-1, 165, sr.). DEFENSE (8): Linebacker Trent Snyder (6-0, 220, sr.), linebacker Evan Dallas (5-10, 200, sr.), linebacker Jaylin Parnell, linebacker Martin Laupola, cornerback Kaleb Franklin, cornerback Chase Cota, nose guard Brandon Ditty, defensive end Michael Cormier. OTHER NOTABLES Receiver/cornerback Josiah Johnson (5-9, 155, sr.), receiver/cornerback Trent DeBoer (5-10, 150, jr.), lineman/linebacker Ryan Beck (6-1, 185, sr.), running back/linebacker Cole Boster (5-11, 200, jr.), receiver/cornerback Jaron Emerson (5-8, 195, sr.), quarterback Giovanni Bottero (6-2, 175, jr.), lineman Dylan Davis (5-10, 215, sr.), lineman Vohn Fraser (6-1, 215, sr.), lineman Bryson Lexow (6-3, 255, sr.), lineman Daniel Shenk (5-8, 180, sr.), receiver/defensive back Austin Boster (5-9, 145, so.), receiver/ defensive back Peyton Shipley (5-10, 165, sr.). 2017 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 WILSONVILLE, 7 p.m. Sept. 8 at West Linn, 7 p.m. Sept. 15 WILLAMETTE, 7 p.m. Sept. 22 at South Salem, 7:15 p.m. Sept. 29 at North Medford, 7 p.m. Oct. 6 GRANTS PASS, 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at Roseburg, 7 p.m. Oct. 20 at Sheldon, 7 p.m. Oct. 27 SOUTH EUGENE, 7 p.m.

Prep Football 2017

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Tornado has designs on big ﬁnish North builds hopes on returning skill players By Kris Henry Mail Tribune

As he prepped for the 2017 football season, North Medford head coach Mike Mitchell’s initial thoughts went to how inexperienced the Black Tornado would be this time around. Then he crunched the numbers, and some of those concerns went by the wayside. While North Medford doesn’t have a host of threeyear returning starters as has helped fill the roster in years past, the squad does boast six returning starters on offense and five on defense to give hope to another top-four finish in the Southwest Conference. “We’re talented but we don’t have a (Nick) Janakes or a (Tre) Holmes, so hard work is what these guys are going to have to do,” said Mitchell,

“but they’ve got a great attitude and they’re fun to coach and we could have something here.” “We’ll be in the thick of it by the end,” he added. “It might take us a while to get there, but I think we’ll get there.” While North Medford’s strength has ultimately been in the trenches in recent years, the Black Tornado will be spurred by a host of skill players this year, led by senior two-way starters Tyler Evans, Vicente Borja, Harley Robinson and Isaac Manuel and junior Eli Spence. “I think we have some good skill people, we just need to step up and develop on the line and play good defense this year to give us a chance,” said Mitchell. Evans was a second-team all-SWC receiver last year after finishing fourth in the league with 519 yards receiving and five touchdowns on 35 SEE TORNADO, 8

North Medford senior Josh Robbins (14) has the reins to himself after sharing signal-calling duties last season before being sidelined by injury. [LARRY STAUTH JR./FOR THE MAIL TRIBUNE]

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Prep Football 2017

Consistency will be key for Cavemen

CAVEMEN GLANCE HEAD COACH John Musser (10th year, 52-44). Grants Pass had a string of three consecutive years of advancing at least to the second round of the Class 6A state playoffs snapped last year. Musser GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Matt Kennedy (offensive coordinator/quarterbacks), John Tunick (defensive coordinator/ defensive backs), Bub Marval (offensive line), Brian Richard (defensive line), Kyle Swanson (running backs), Tyler York (receivers), John Valadez (defensive backs/JV head coach), Robbie Zaina (JV), Jonah Musser (JV), Nate Scott (JV), Stacy Morgan (freshman head coach), Jenner Yriarte (freshman), Zac Morgan (freshman), Jake Leair (freshman). 2016 LEAGUE RECORD: 4-2 (third, SWC). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Third. 2016 RESULTS Grants Pass 34 39 33 40 7 7 35 13 0 State Playoffs 13

Receiver Tayler Phillips was a first-team all-Southwest Conference performer for Grants Pass last season, hauling in 28 receptions for 348 yards and five TDs. [JOEL TAKARSH/GRANTS PASS DAILY COURIER]

GP has high hopes of building off recent success By Kris Henry Mail Tribune

GRANTS PASS — Now in his 10th season as head coach — and with consistently high turnout numbers across all levels of his football program — John Musser’s hope is that Grants Pass is in position to simply reload as it gears up for the 2017 campaign. The Cavemen may not have the elite-level recruits that have come into the Sheldon program or the experience of a South Medford, but the number of returning starters and players who have seen game action has Musser willing to put his group up against any as the Southwest Conference season looms. “I think the talent level in those two places is off the charts this year, but I think we’re right there in terms of consistency and depth of players,” said Musser. “We don’t have big names like those two teams, but I’ll take our depth and our guys and we’ll see

what happens.” With eight returning starters on offense — including four linemen — and three on defense, the Cavemen have enough of a building block to make them dangerous on any given night. Seven members of that group earned all-SWC recognition one year ago, led by first-team receiver Tayler Phillips and second-teamers Will Bartley (offensive tackle) and Richard England (linebacker). “It’s been a high-energy group and there’s a lot of them that played a lot of football last year, whether or not they were starters,” said Musser. “It’s a group of kids that understands what it takes to compete at this level, so there’s been a fairly small learning curve as far as that goes.” Offensively, a lot will revolve around whether the group of returning linemen in tackles Bartley and Ethan Jacuinde, center Gerardo Rodriguez and guard Stephen Young can gel

into a more solid group up front. “All four of those kids started every game and took most of the snaps every game,” said Musser, “but they weren’t great every time. We took our lumps at times and it was a pretty inconsistent group, so that’s what we need to improve on. It’s a group that has worked tremendously hard so I’m excited to see how it all comes together.” That group should help pave the way for what could be a breakout season for junior quarterback Blain Hobbs, who completed 66 percent of his passes in the regular season last year for nearly 1,000 yards. In his first season at the helm, maybe the most important factor is his touchdown-tointerception ratio last year was nearly 3-to-1 at 14 TDs and five interceptions. The 5-foot-8 signal caller has put on about 10 pounds from a year ago, although at 5-foot-8 SEE CAVEMEN, 8

Opponents Century 27 Aloha 7 Roseburg 0 Willamette 16 Sprague 53 South Medford 23 North Medford 14 South Eugene 6 Sheldon 49 Madison 14

RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (8): Quarterback Blain Hobbs (5-8, 160, jr.), receiver Tayler Phillips (6-6, 195, sr.), receiver Korbin Lopez (6-3, 175, jr.), tackle Will Bartley (6-2, 300, sr.), tackle Ethan Jacuinde (6-1, 292, sr.), center Gerardo Rodriguez (5-10, 242, sr.), guard Stephen Young (5-11, 222, sr.), kicker Daniel Cronin (6-5, 222, sr.). DEFENSE (3): Linebacker Rich England (6-2, 232, sr.), linebacker Adam Joham (5-9, 175, sr.), linebacker Vince Washington (5-9, 175, sr.). OTHER NOTABLES Running back/linebacker Victor Ruiz (5-10, 207, sr.), lineman Sjoren Geiger (6-1, 284, sr.), lineman Corbin Anderson (6-1, 200, jr.), lineman Warren Stark (6-0, 258, jr.), receiver/cornerback Jaren Emptage (6-0, 176, jr.), defensive end/tight end Austin Byrd (6-1, 230, sr.), receiver/safety Niko Phillips (5-8, 151, sr.), receiver/safety Zack Williams (6-1, 190, sr.), defensive back/kicker Teigan Jokumsen (5-7, 150, sr.), receiver/ cornerback Randy Clark (5-11, 162, jr.), receiver/defensive back Joel Valadez (5-9, 165, so.), tight end/linebacker Joe Johnson (6-1, 207, jr.), linebacker/running back Blake Sellers (5-11, 177, jr.), quarterback Chase Coyle (6-2, 185, so.), linebacker Jake Hancock (5-11, 204, jr.), lineman Noah Jaramillo (6-0, 270, sr.), lineman Peter Osipovich (6-0, 228, so.), receiver/ defensive back Orion Martin (6-0, 156, jr.), receiver/linebacker Scott Kelley (5-11, 170, jr.), running back/linebacker Cade Lesina (5-10, 160, sr.). 2017 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 Sept. 8 Sept. 15 Sept. 22 Sept. 29 Oct. 6 Oct. 13 Oct. 20 Oct. 27

at Century, 7 p.m. ALOHA, 7 p.m. ROSEBURG, 7 p.m. at Willamette, 7 p.m. SPRAGUE, 7 p.m. at South Medford, 7 p.m. at North Medford, 7 p.m. SOUTH EUGENE, 7 p.m. SHELDON, 7 p.m.

Prep Football 2017

Friday, September 1, 2017 |

| Friday, September 1, 2017

2017 Prep Football

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE

Sheldon gets nod as SWC favorite Inﬂux of prime national recruits gives Irish a boost By Kris Henry Mail Tribune

The more things change, the more they stay the same when it comes to the Southwest Conference football chase. The run of Johnson brothers at the helm for Sheldon — Marty and then Lane — came to an end after last season when Lane Johnson stepped down as head coach, but the Irish’s status as the team to beat in the SWC remains the same. In preseason voting by the conference’s coaches, Sheldon’s four first-place votes were just enough to put it over the top in a close competition with defending SWC champion South Medford. The Irish totaled 34 points, while South Medford earned three first-place votes and finished with 33 points. Grants Pass was picked to place third with 26 points, followed by North Medford (20), Roseburg (15), Willamette (13) and South Eugene (6) in a race that expects to be fairly muddled in the middle. All of that is well and good for first-year Sheldon head coach Josh Line, who comes over from Marshfield after four years as head coach and 10 previous as defensive coordinator, but it doesn’t mean anything if the Irish don’t keep their eye on the ball. “We’re like everybody else, we’re one step at a time,” said Line, who played fullback at Oregon from 1999-2001. “But we also want to be as good as we can be and be as competitive as we can in the conference to give us our best opportunity in the playoffs.” Line employed a similar spreadoption offense at Marshfield as Sheldon has used to tremendous success and, after being able to retain most of the Irish’s assistant coaches, his plan is to keep things status quo — including adopting Sheldon’s terminology over imposing the wordings used at Marshfield. “We wouldn’t be where we are at this point had we not been able to retain so many coaches,” said Line, “so I’m really appreciative of them for SEE SHELDON, 9

Sheldon’s Jaren Banks tackles South Salem’s Morgan Bice during Sheldon’s 56-14 victory in the first round of the Class 6A state football playoffs. [BRIAN DAVIES/THE REGISTER-GUARD]

2017 Prep Football

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2017 Prep Football

TORNADO GLANCE HEAD COACH Mike Mitchell (sixth year, 30-23). North Medford led the SWC with 26 takeaways and a plus-9 turnover ratio and has ﬁnished among the top four teams in the league in three of the last four seasons. GENERAL INFORMATION Mitchell ASSISTANTS: Dave Johnson (assistant head coach/linebackers), Jacob Palaniuk (defensive coordinator), Jim Figoni (offensive line), Curtis Stout (secondary), Vince Randall (running backs), Dan Frederickson (receivers), David Patstone (tight ends), Johnny Vaigafa (defensive line), Alvin Thornton (running backs), Tyler Baird (freshman head coach), Greg Bryant (freshman), Freddy Tualani (freshman). 2016 LEAGUE RECORD: 3-3 (fourth, SWC). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Fourth. 2016 RESULTS North Medford Opponents 38 Fortuna (Calif.) 21 41 Shasta (Calif.) 23 19 South Eugene 13 0 Sheldon 35 21 South Medford 31 35 Roseburg 14 14 Grants Pass 35 38 McNary 17 26 Willamette 14 State Playoffs 6 Lake Oswego 35 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (6): Quarterback Josh Robbins (6-0, 190, sr.), receiver Tyler Evans (5-8, 155, sr.), receiver Vicente Borja (5-8, 155, sr.), tackle Jonathinn Casaday (6-6, 215, sr.), guard Zach Fung (5-11, 235, sr.), running back Harley Robinson (5-9, 170, sr.). DEFENSE (5): End Nicholas Winetrout (5-10, 170, sr.), linebacker Isaac Manuel (5-9, 200, sr.), linebacker Eli Spence (6-5, 200, jr.), safety Tyler Evans, cornerback Vicente Borja. OTHER NOTABLES Lineman Tony Bench (5-9, 205, jr.), lineman Tayler Lavin (6-0, 220, sr.), lineman Kika Stone (5-9, 280, jr.), lineman Julian Stone (5-7, 207, jr.), receiver/cornerback Anthony Taylor (5-7, 145, jr.), tight end/linebacker Thomas Bates (6-0, 195, jr.), running back/lineman Andrew Burnett (5-10, 210, sr.), running back/linebacker Dallin England (5-9, 130, jr.), quarterback Conner Gradwell (6-0, 195, jr.), lineman Juan Velazquez (5-10, 190, jr.), running back/linebacker Petelo Va’a (5-8, 160, sr.), receiver/defensive back Jacob Sousa-Douglass (5-8, 145, jr.), receiver/linebacker Devyn Grafton (6-0, 195, so.), receiver/linebacker Jett Carpenter (5-10, 170, so.), running back/defensive back Josh Baptiste (5-6, 150, so.), receiver/linebacker Owen Grafton (5-10, 150, jr.), place-kicker Tucker Houck (5-11, 160, jr.). 2017 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 at Fortuna, Calif., 7:30 p.m. Sept. 8 SHASTA, CALIF., 7 p.m. Sept. 15 at South Eugene, 7 p.m. Sept. 22 SHELDON, 7 p.m. Sept. 29 SOUTH MEDFORD, 7 p.m. Oct. 6 at Roseburg, 7 p.m. Oct. 13 GRANTS PASS, 7 p.m. Oct. 20 MCNARY, 7 p.m. Oct. 27 at Willamette, 7 p.m.

CAVEMEN From Page 4

and 160 pounds, he will never be the most intimidating QB, and his command of the offense is obvious. “There’s a physical maturation to where he’s gotten a heck of a lot stronger,” said Musser. “His one-year maturation is like, I would say, double that of a typical high school kid just with as much work as he’s put in with

TORNADO From Page 3

receptions during the regular season. The 5-foot-8, 155-pounder showed sure hands and good separation and will be tasked with helping his team move the chains once again this year. Borja (5-8, 155) also started last year and averaged 19.6 yards per catch as a big-play threat, while Robinson split carries in the backfield and finished with 260 yards rushing Evans on 85 carries, thanks to his quick feet. “Harley in space is good offense,” said Mitchell. Manuel made most of his impact at linebacker one year ago but will add some running back Spence duties to his resume this time around, and at 5-9 and 200 pounds, he gives North a physical presence in the backfield with deceptive speed. Spence has a chance Winetrout to be North Medford’s breakout performer of the year on both sides of the ball, with the 6-5, 200-pounder expanding his duties from last year at linebacker with more available time at receiver. Spence expects to fulfill the role departed senior A.J. Raye played last year as the Black Tornado’s reliable midrange target, albeit more from the slot than at tight end. Senior Josh Robbins (6-0, 190) again assumes control of the North Medford offense at quarterback after splitting time last year with Javan Gail, who has transferred to Phoenix High to play for his father, Jered. The combination of the two provided a blend of electric and erratic moments one year ago, with Gail taking over for good after Robbins suffered a broken right ankle in Week 7 at Grants Pass. “We thought Jav was a good kid, I don’t want to slight him at all,” said Mitchell,

film and studying things.” Hobbs will have plenty of options with a deep receiving corps led by Phillips, who caught 28 passes for 348 yards and five TDs last year, and junior Korbin Lopez, who was a starter in 2016 but was lost in Week 4 after breaking his collarbone. The backfield is inexperienced with seniors Vince Washington and Victor Ruiz handling duties, but both bring a physical presence with the ability to catch the ball and move the chains. Defensively, the strength of the squad

exists in a linebacker corps that returns starters England, Washington and Adam Joham. The defensive line will be entirely new but Musser has high hopes for transfer Austin Byrd, who comes to GP by way of West Valley High in Cottonwood, California, and Corbin Anderson, who would have been a starter last year but suffered a broken arm at the end of daily doubles. Junior Warren Stark was the JV team’s top lineman last year and his continued development will be key to the front line push.

North Medford senior Isaac Manuel (47) will be counted on both sides of the ball. [LARRY STAUTH JR./FOR THE MAIL TRIBUNE]

“but this probably in the long run is going to be better for us just because those two were so close it really was hard to pick who’s the biggest asset. I like having one, I don’t like having two quarterbacks.” Robbins completed 46 of 98 passes for 585 yards, five TDs and four interceptions last year and has proven to be a strong running threat in past years. “I feel good about him being our quarterback,” Mitchell said of Robbins, who also wrestles and plays baseball. “He’s a big, strong runner and he stands in the pocket a little better now and he makes good choices. We’re excited about him and think he’s going to have a good year.” To help further Robbins’ development, Mitchell said North has made a decision to get the starters more practice reps this year, and he has already seen a payoff from that switch. Returning senior guard Zach Fung and senior tackle Jonathinn Casaday earned all-SWC honors last year and will lead the push on the offensive line to give Robbins and company time to operate. Senior Nicholas Winetrout has been a consistent contributor at defensive end since his sophomore year and will help power a Tornado stop unit anchored by linebackers Manuel and Spence and newcomers Dallin England and Thomas Bates. Robinson takes over at free safety with Evans moving to rover, while Borja returns at cornerback and will be flanked by junior Anthony Taylor. Reach reporter Kris Henry at 541-7764488, khenry@mailtribune.com, www. facebook.com/krishenryMT or www. twitter.com/Kris_Henry

The secondary has the least game experience, with Lopez and Jaren Emptage stepping in as first-year starters at cornerback while Phillips has impressed at free safety. Of the 37 programs that have played at the 6A level since its inception in 2006, Grants Pass ranks 16th overall (thirdhighest in the SWC) with a 68-51 record. Reach reporter Kris Henry at 541776-4488, khenry@mailtribune.com, www.facebook.com/krishenryMT or www.twitter.com/Kris_Henry

2017 Prep Football

SHELDON From Page 6

sticking with it and working as hard as we all have to make this transition as seamless as possible.” Also making it easier is a host of quality returners combined with an influx of new talent courtesy of offspring from Oregon’s new coaching staff. Included are Michael Johnson Jr., a 6-foot-3, 190-pound dual-threat quarterback who is ranked among the best in the nation for the Class of 2019, and 6-1, 185-pound junior Raymond Woodie III, who is not far off the pace of his cohort as a dual-threat QB but will play slot receiver and free safety at Sheldon. Throw in returning receiver Patrick Herbert, who is the younger brother of Oregon QB Justin Herbert and a heralded Class of 2019 tight end recruit, and standout linebacker/running back Jaren Banks, and the Irish have more than enough stars to challenge for an SWC crown. Senior guards Matt Metcalf and Donovan Scurlock, placekicker Campbell Sheidow and cornerback Ben Watson also return as all-SWC honorees, along with junior cornerback Kimani Quade. Juniors Zach Folsom and Matthew Burgess will join Banks in the backfield, with

“We wouldn’t be where we are at this point had we not been able to retain so many coaches, so I’m really appreciative of them for sticking with it and working as hard as we all have to make this transition as seamless as possible.” Josh Line Sheldon head coach

senior Cameron Johnson slated to join Herbert at receiver and at defensive end and senior Zach Phillipo helping control things at center. Marty Johnson won three state titles in 14 seasons and Lane Johnson won one state title in his six years as head coach. Under their guidance, Sheldon ranks first among the 37 schools who have competed at the Class 6A level since it started in 2006 with a 123-18 record in 11 seasons.

Roseburg Last year, new head coach Dave Heuberger found his team in survival mode with limited numbers to start and mounting injuries during Roseburg’s first season without Thurman Bell on the sidelines in nearly five decades. Heuberger said he and his staff took a lot of lessons from

TIME From Page 2

Conference to as far away as Alabama and Notre Dame. The 6-foot-4, 200-pounder hauled in 40 passes for 729 yards and 10 TDs last season, and already holds South Medford’s single-game record with 282 yards receiving on 10 catches as a sophomore against Sheldon. While Cota may be the most ballyhooed prospect coming out of South Medford since Kyle Singler — and deservedly so — the Panther who may have had the biggest impact on the team’s success one year ago was fellow senior Jaylin Parnell. The 6-foot, 200-pounder pulled off a rare feat, earning SWC player of the year honors on offense and defense after serving as South’s leading tackler and the SWC’s leading rusher with 1,031 yards and 10 TDs on 131 carries during the regular season. Parnell shared SWC offensive player

last year’s ups and downs and the hope is Roseburg will be the better for it in 2017. Senior offensive lineman Tyler Sconce (6-6, 330) and junior linebacker Zack Mandera (6-1, 205) each earned all-SWC recognition a year ago, while versatile senior Terrell Jacks will be called upon to be a leader on both sides of the ball at tailback and linebacker. Receivers Garrett Russell, Brendan Ibarra and Brandon Jeffers add to the targets for returning junior quarterback Collin Warmouth. Junior Thomas Ruth (6-1, 230) stands to make an impact on the offensive line. Defensively, linebackers Mandera, Jacks and Jeffers anchor the effort with Russell moving to safety, while sophomores Doran Gillespie and Spencer Six add extra speed and flexibility at linebacker.

of the year honors with quarterback Robbie Patterson, who enters his third season as a starter having passed for 1,880 yards with 23 TDs and three interceptions on 63-percent efficiency during the 2016 regular season. Patterson already owns a share of a single-game school record with Boomer Marshall after throwing six TD passes against Roseburg two years ago. And were it not for a nagging leg injury, senior Kaleb Franklin (5-10, 170) might have threatened Cota as the top SWC receiver. Franklin still finished with 450 yards and five scores on 35 catches while also averaging 7.2 yards per carry as a wild-card option in the Panthers’ arsenal. Third-year starting center Brandon Ditty joined Cota and Parnell as the only players to earn first-team allSWC honors on both sides of the ball, and helps set the tone in the trenches with returning senior standouts Michael Cormier and Martin Laupola. Senior Jaalen Owens showed signs of being a breakout receiver last year as a complement to Cota and Franklin

Friday, September 1, 2017 |

Willamette

South Eugene

Eight returning starters on each side of the ball make Willamette a dangerous team to contend with under thirdyear head coach Josh Wolfram, especially given how hungry the Wolverines are to distance themselves from a one-win campaign a year ago after they had showed so much promise in 2015. Third-year starting quarterback Taylor Bridge-Eiler (6-3, 200) will look to lead his team to a big turnaround after passing for 1,239 yards last year with 13 TDs and 12 interceptions. Bryce Goggin returns after finishing third in SWC receiving last year (657 yards and eight TDs on 33 receptions) along with prime targets Tanner Branson and Griffin LaVassaur. Junior running back Tanner Webb (5-11, 185) returns and expects to get backfield help from sophomore Tanner Adams (6-0, 180), with returning linemen Jake Muller, Brad Mondo and Aaron Coughran carving out space to roam. Defensively, linebacker Kalvyn Young sets the tone with Santi Soriano, who moves from linebacker to the line to help complement Muller. The ability to execute in key stretches proved costly last year for Willamette, which will look to erase that issue, and overall depth is a concern.

Head coach Kevin Leonard has faced an uphill battle since taking over at South Eugene in 2014 but never more than this year, when the Axemen have only 35 players in the program and will not be able to field a junior varsity or freshman team. With last year’s top two-way playmaker Myles Green-Richards — a Washington State commit — now playing for Churchill, the Axemen will look for a committee approach to propel them this season. Returning all-SWC second-teamers Oskar Mertz (running back) and Elliot James (receiver) will be looked at to lead the charge, with Mertz sixth in SWC rushing last year (491 yards on 117 carries, six TDs) and James seventh in receiving (367 yards on 29 catches, three TDs). Isaac Reyna will be a prime target in the slot for whoever wins the quarterback battle between junior Noah Hardy and sophomore Bryce Boettcher. A pair of 6-3, 300-pounders in Jahi Richardson and Jibandi Lurowo will power the line play.

and also provides the Panthers a legitimate weapon as a place-kicker, while junior Trent DeBoer will be another one to watch on the perimeter. Defensively, linebackers Evan Dallas and Trent Snyder bring a workhorse mentality to the mix to mesh nicely with Parnell and Laupola and rising

Reach reporter Kris Henry at 541-776-4488, khenry@mailtribune.com, www.facebook. com/krishenryMT or www. twitter.com/Kris_Henry

junior Cole Boster, while an already deep secondary should only get better with increased playing time from playmaking senior Josiah Johnson. Reach reporter Kris Henry at 541776-4488, khenry@mailtribune.com, www.facebook.com/krishenryMT or www.twitter.com/Kris_Henry

| Friday, September 1, 2017

2017 Prep Football

Friday, September 1, 2017 |

Lehnerz takes over young Grizzlies GRIZZLIES GLANCE HEAD COACH Beau Lehnerz (first year). GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Antione Perry (offensive coordinator/running Lehnerz backs/cornerbacks), Tito Soriano (wide receivers/defensive backs/special teams coordinator), Scott Chadick (wide receivers/defensive backs), Jim Nagel (quarterbacks), Bubba Rylance (offensive line/defensive line), Eric Sullivan (tight ends/linebackers/special teams), Kam Smith (quarterbacks/ defensive backs), Joe Leolofi (defensive line/offensive line), Greg Lemhouse (running backs/defensive backs). 2016 LEAGUE RECORD: 6-1 (first, MWL). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 8-3. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Fifth. 2016 RESULTS Ashland Opponents 36 Klamath Union 0 21 Summit 35 49 Churchill 48 52 Marist 21 44 Springfield 13 42 Eagle Point 50 6 Crater 3 23 Thurston 3 56 North Eugene 41 State Playoffs 30 Mountain View 7 33 Lebanon 40 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (4): Left tackle Drake Morey (6-5, 260, sr.), right tackle Detlef Laughery (6-0, 185, sr.), center Troy Boyd (6-3, 210, sr.), left guard Myles Montgomery (5-11, 210, jr.). DEFENSE (3): End Drake Morey, linebacker Detlef Laughery, linebacker Myles Montgomery. OTHER NOTABLES: Right guard/end Kadyn Kimbrough (6-0, 190, sr.), receiver/cornerback Anthony Swanson (5-10, 165, sr.), receiver/safety Aaron Chandler (6-1, 175, sr.), quarterback Cade Swenson (6-0, 170, sr.), running back/cornerback DeMario Watson (5-9, 170, so.), running back Austin Harris (5-10, 160, so.), kicker/punter/tight end/ safety Nolan Rinefort (5-11, 165, so.), nose guard Sam Miller (5-9, 250, sr.), linebacker Finn Hayes (6-1, 205, so.), cornerback Ben Feinberg (5-9, 155, jr.). 2017 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 at Klamath Union, 7 p.m. Sept. 8 SUMMIT, 7 p.m. Sept. 15 at Churchill, 7 p.m Sept. 22 at Marist, 7 p.m. Sept. 29 SPRINGFIELD, 7 p.m. Oct. 6 EAGLE POINT, 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at Crater, 7 p.m. Oct. 20 at Thurston, 7 p.m. Oct. 27 NORTH EUGENE, 7 p.m.

New Ashland coach has strong line to lean on By Joe Zavala for the Mail Tribune

ASHLAND — Acts don’t get much harder to follow than the man Beau Lehnerz was hired to replace. Charlie Hall led the Ashland High Grizzlies to the OSAA Class 5A state quarterfinals six times, a Montgomery state runner-up finish in 2015 and won four conference coach of the year awards in his 11 years as head coach. He also happened to be a beloved figurehead, admired and respected by fellow coaches, fans Boyd and players. But if there was any doubt that Lehnerz was the right man to take the reins when Hall left in March to coach Southern Oregon University, AshLaughery land’s assistant coaches did what they could to squelch the debate when they met with athletic director Karl Kemper shortly thereafter to sing Lehnerz’s praises. Days later, Lehnerz was offered the job, and now the man who declared his new gig a “dream come true” after the move became official in April is working on putting his own stamp on a program which has become a perennial statetitle contender. And though Lehnerz inherits a team as inexperienced as any wearing Ashland red and white the last 10 years, he doesn’t see any reason why the Grizzlies, the defending Midwestern League champions, should backslide in 2017. “We set our goals high,” said Lehnerz, who’s been an assistant at Ashland the past 10 years, the last two as its defensive coordinator. “But, we also talked about how tough it’s going to be as far as depth and experience and things like that. Myself, I see Churchill being up there as the team to beat, Marist will be tough, Thurston will be better. … I know we’re going to make mistakes with our youth, first-year quarterback and things like that, but I see us making the playoffs and I see us being in the top mix of our division.” Ashland’s operating systems will remain relatively unchanged with Lehnerz at the keyboard, as the Grizzlies SEE GRIZZLIES, 15

Drake Morey, a senior tackle and defensive end, is among the returning starters who make the lines the Grizzlies’ strength. [LARRY STAUTH JR./FOR THE MAIL TRIBUNE]

| Friday, September 1, 2017

2017 Prep Football

New coach, new approach at Crater Waite has winning resume as he takes over Comets By Don Hunt for the Mail Tribune

CENTRAL POINT — There’s a new coach and a new approach at Crater High this fall. Randy Waite, who has coached football at seven high schools over a 25-year career — mostly on the east side of the state — arrived here with a winning resume and a positive approach that has enhanced turnout at all of his stops. “It’s a matter of recruiting kids in the hallways, building up the youth program and making football the best experience in kids’ lives,” said Waite, whose previous stop was in Rigby, Idaho, where he twice led that school to the state semifinals in a four-year stint. “There is no magic formula. It’s a matter of treating kids right.” Waite is bringing a different defensive scheme to the Comets — a 3-5 alignment that should take advantage of Crater’s speed, neutralize its lack of depth up front and free up Crater’s two best defensive players — linebackers Logan Lowder and Tony Flores. The defense should also be fortified by the arrival of new defensive coordinator Berk Brown. Brown was at St. Mary’s last season. Prior to that, he was the defensive coordinator at Southern Oregon University and was on the Raiders’ staff when they won the NAIA national championship in 2014. “My teams have always been in a three-man front and the 3-5 really plays to this team’s strength,” said Waite, who has posted a career record of 113-73 at Weston-McEwen, Hermiston, La Grande, Ontario and Rigby high

schools. “Our defensive line is pretty thin, but we’ve got a lot of quick linebacker types and so that fits with what we’re trying to do.” Graduation took a heavy toll on the Comets, who return just two starters on offense (running back Cade Weaver and quarterback Trever Davis) and three on defense (Lowder, Tony Flores and nose guard Daniel Flores.) Waite gives Lowder and the Flores boys high marks. “Lowder and Tony Flores bring tenacity to the field,” the coach said. “They like to hit, they’re good tacklers, they’re going to cause some havoc. “Daniel Flores is going to be our center and nose guard. He’s going to be our leader up front on both sides of the ball.” Weaver, meanwhile, is moving from receiver to running back and is being penciled in for a heavy workload. “We’re going to be moving him around to get him in open space,” said Waite of the 6-1, 190-pound Weaver. “We’ll have him at running back, in the slot, out wide, in motion, all those things. He’s going to get a lot of touches.” The Comets are also high on sophomore Gavin Acrey, a 5-9, 165-pounder who has good speed and toughness. A wrestler in the winter, Acrey also likes to participate in logger games. He spent a recent Saturday in Prospect cutting logs with a chainsaw, climbing up poles, throwing axes at targets and partaking in other lumberjack contests. That evening, he was back in Central Point at a Comets scrimmage. “He’s something else,” says Crater offensive coordinator David Douglas of Acrey. “He’s our sophomore sleeper. I think he’ll surprise some people.” SEE CRATER, 16

2017 Prep Football

Friday, September 1, 2017 |

New Eagles are ready to ﬂy Eagle Point must ﬁll holes from breakout 2016

EAGLES GLANCE

By Dan Jones Mail Tribune

EAGLE POINT — The Eagle Point football team had a breakthrough season last fall, and the Eagles are optimistic about this year despite graduating several key players. Expect to see a physical, deep squad that will run the football often, Eagle Point head coach Seth Womack said. He saw 21 seniors graduate, including 17 Midwestern League all-league selections and six who will be playing college ball. That impressive class included three running backs who combined for more than 2,000 yards rushing. Those Eagles went 7-3 overall, had a shot at winning the league crown with a 5-2 record and made the state playoffs for the first time since 1997. All that considered, he’s excited for his newest collection of talent. “We are optimistic for sure,” said Womack, who shared MWL coach of the year honors with Ashland’s Charlie Hall last season. “We had a good spring and summer. The kids are progressing nicely. We are young, and we went into camp knowing we had to replace all those seniors. I think we’ve answered that question without a doubt. We walked away from camp with a good feeling knowing we have some really talented guys to fill those roles. The kids are very capable and this is one of our deeper teams.” The Eagles’ ground attack will be led by juniors Noah Page (one of just two returning starters on offense), Dante Lallo, Alex Carrillo and Eric Parliment and freshman Devin Bradd. They’ll get the carries once reserved for standout graduates Jaxson Jones, Bennett Rodgers and Tanner Jostad. “We are going to be very similar to last year running the ball, but I think we’re deeper than last year and as good as

Noah Page (21) received honorable mention in MWL all-league voting on both offense and defense, where he’ll return as a receiver and defensive back. [MAIL TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO]

you could ask for,” Womack said. “We don’t run a traditional spread, so you won’t see an Oregon or Southern Oregon University style. You can call it what you want — it’s a type of wing offense, you could call it the Eagle wing. It fits our kids and puts us in a good position. Teams will know when they get us that they are gonna be in for a physical game offensively and defensively.” A tough offensive line will help pave the way, Womack said. That group includes senior center Clayton Fraughton (an MWL honorable mention), senior Mike Wilt and juniors Noah Linder, Andrew Barlowe, Charley Jacobson, Hayden Gainey and Rylan Morgan. “Our offensive line is really big and really athletic,” Womack said. Junior quarterback Cameron Morgan takes over for graduated signal caller Nate Page. He’s also an exceptional cornerback, Womack said. “He’s done a great job and lived up to the position,” Womack said.

Fraughton

Kinyon

Noah Page (Nate’s younger brother) should also make an impact at receiver and defensive back (he was an MWL honorable mention as both). He had 206 yards receiving, 214 rushing and scored five touchdowns while making 28 tackles (including 20 solo) on defense. The defense will also feature senior inside linebacker Jimmy Kinyon, who had 29 tackles (18 solo) last fall, and junior inside linebacker Carrillo. Junior Drew Hodges has been solid in practices as a tight end, linebacker and lineman, and Lallo (outside linebacker) and Parliment (free safety) should make a difference on defense too, Womack said. The Eagles opened at home Thursday with Glencoe and travel to Ridgeview next week.

Wilt

They kick off their league season at Springfield on Sept. 15. Eagle Point’s conference home opener comes on Sept. 22, when it welcomes Thurston. “My stance on the the league hasn’t changed over the years,” said Womack, whose program bounced back from an 0-9 performance in 2014 and 2-7 mark in 2015. “Even our No. 6 or No. 7 teams are tough. There aren’t any easy games. Look at Marist (who went 4-5) last year. They beat us Week 9, and also played (state champion) Lebanon tough. From top to bottom, our teams can go out and compete.” Reach reporter Dan Jones at 541-776-4499 or djones@ mailtribune.com.

HEAD COACH Seth Womack (fifth year, 14-24). Last fall, Eagle Point had a shot at winning the Midwestern League and landed its first state playoff Womack berth since 1997. GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Vinny Gay (offensive coordinator/quarterbacks), Shaun Murgel (defensive line/freshman), Tyson Wolfe (freshman), Josh Fagan (defensive coordinator/linebackers), Nathan Helwig (defensive back/JV), Phil Castro (freshman). 2016 LEAGUE RECORD: 5-2 (third, MWL). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 7-3. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Tied ﬁfth. 2016 RESULTS Eagle Point Opponents 53 Glencoe 12 44 Ridgeview 0 52 Springﬁeld 0 47 Thurston 48 25 Crater 13 50 Ashland 42 64 North Eugene 33 42 Churchill 37 21 Marist 35 State Playoffs 14 Dallas 50 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (2): Receiver/running back Noah Page (6-1, 180, jr.), center Clayton Fraughton (6-0, 270, sr.). DEFENSE (3): Cornerback Noah Page, inside linebacker Jimmy Kinyon (defensive end, 6-2, 205, sr.), inside linebacker Alex Carrillo (5-10, 190, jr.). OTHER NOTABLES Cameron Morgan (quarterback/cornerback, 5-10, 175, jr.), center Noah Linder (5-9, 250, jr.), guard Andrew Barlowe (6-1, 275, jr.), tackle Charley Jacobson (6-3, 280, jr.), lineman Mike Wilt (6-0, 280, sr.), guard Hayden Gainey (6-3, 240, jr.), tackle Rylan Morgan (6-6, 240, jr.), tight end/linebacker/lineman Drew Hodges (5-10, 175, jr.), running back Devin Bradd (5-10, 180, fr.), running back/outside linebacker Dante Lallo (5-9, 170, jr.), running back/free safety Eric Parliment (5-9, 170, jr.). 2017 SCHEDULE Aug. 31 Sept. 8 Sept. 15 Sept. 22 Sept. 29 Oct. 6 Oct. 13 Oct. 20 Oct. 27

GLENCOE, 7 p.m. at Ridgeview, 7 p.m. at Springﬁeld, 7 p.m. THURSTON, 7 p.m. CRATER, 7 p.m. at Ashland, 7 p.m. at North Eugene, 7 p.m. CHURCHILL, 7 p.m. MARIST, 7 p.m.

| Friday, September 1, 2017

Prep Football 2017

MWL’s power is to the north Churchill, Thurston picked to lead way in MWL By Dan Jones Mail Tribune

The path to the Midwestern League crown might very well run through Lane County this fall. Churchill was picked to win the conference, edging Thurston by just one point after recent voting by MWL coaches. Marist was chosen third, followed by Crater, Ashland and Eagle Point, North Eugene and Springfield. Last season, Ashland won the league, Thurston took second and Eagle Point was third. At Churchill, second-year coach AJ Robinson’s collection of standouts includes senior wide receiver/defensive back Myles Green-Richards, who was a first-team Southwest

Conference selection on both sides of the ball at Class 6A South Eugene before transferring. “He’s everything that you would want in a football player,” said Robinson of Green-Richards, who is a Washington State commit. Plenty of talent surrounds Green-Richards. Senior receiver/defensive back Lucas Schwin, a threeyear starter, had 12 touchdown receptions en route to MWL second-team recognition last year. Senior running back Dalton McDaniel also returns as a league second-teamer after rushing for 800 yards in a backup role to graduated firstteamer Sam Jackson. They’ll be joined by conference second-team pick Jax Arnold, a senior tight end/ defensive end who last year led the league in receiving at his position. The Lancers have two capable quarterbacks in senior Tyson

Bennion, the backup last fall, and junior Jack Blackburn, who played JV. Other players to watch include junior linebacker Beau Burnett (an MWL honorable mention) and junior linemen Richard Estrella and Quinn Parker. Parker is the Lancers’ only returning starter on the line. Churchill, which took sixth in the MWL with a 5-4 overall record and 3-4 league mark in 2016, opens the season by hosting Willamette. Green-Richards will face his old squad when the Lancers travel to take on South Eugene on Sept. 8, and Churchill kicks off the conference season by welcoming Ashland on Sept. 15.

Thurston The Colts, led by coach Justin Starck, are a high-powered squad with several key returners at skill positions. Thurston possesses two talented quarterbacks in senior

Preston Fisher, who passed for 677 yards and eight touchdowns before suffering a season-ending injury during the Colts’ third game last year, and junior Trevor Duran, who filled in and threw for 1,792 yards and 18 touchdowns. Thurston returns first-team senior receivers Tyson Haas and Ethan Powell (Haas and Powell are also honorable mention defensive backs). Haas had 52 catches, 911 yards and 10 touchdowns and Powell 48 catches, 650 yards and 10 touchdowns for the Colts, who secured second in the MWL after going 7-3 overall and 5-2 in league (with almost every game being a nail-biter). Returning league honorablemention players include senior center Zachary Willits, junior guard Patrick Antone, senior tight end Carson Werder and senior lineman Akili Alvarado. Senior cornerback/receiver JJ Sargeant was out last season with a shoulder injury but is

back and could be another impact player, Starck said. The Colts graduated firstteam running back and defensive back Connor Morton. “We just need for the kids to continue to work hard,” Starck said. “We hope for some real leaders to emerge and are looking forward to a good year.”

Marist Senior Reow Jackson stars at Marist. He was a first-team allleague selection as a quarterback and defensive back who threw for 996 yards and seven touchdowns, rushed for 780 yards and eight TDs. He’ll be joined by senior tight end/defensive end Jack Courtemanche (an MWL honorable mention at tackle last fall), second-team senior placekicker Jace Krier, junior lineman David Mora (an MWL honorable mention) and senior honorable mention running back/linebacker Aavonte Clark. SEE MWL, 15

Prep Football 2017

Friday, September 1, 2017 |

Football takes center stage online, on air By Dan Jones Mail Tribune

High school football fans in the Rogue Valley have several options when it comes to tracking their favorite teams. The Mail Tribune (mailtribune.com) will have complete coverage of Friday night action, including articles, statistics, videos and photo galleries, as well as previews and features. Table Rock Sports (tablerocksports.net) offers free live video broadcasts of South Medford, North Medford, Grants Pass, Crater and St. Mary’s, with contests also

archived on the website. Football game coverage begins 30 minutes before kickoff. For a third consecutive year, Table Rock Sports will partner with KTVL News 10 for Friday Night Football, a postgame interview and highlights segment that goes from 11:10 to 11:35 p.m. before switching over to ktvl. com. The crew, which includes Joe Brett and Tom Ersepke and lead anchor Brian Schnee, will offer top plays from Jackson County and surrounding counties and player and coach interviews. Continued analysis and

highlights can be found on ktvl.com after the newscast ends. KDRV Channel 12.2 will have a game of the week every Friday led by Jacob Kornhauser and Jake Garcia. The live coverage will be replayed at 2 a.m. on Saturdays. KDRV (Channel 12) will also feature postgame coverage and highlights from around the region afterward on Friday Night Blitz at 11:15 p.m. The station will additionally have fan voting for play-ofthe-week nominees every week. On tablerocksports.net, Demi DeSoto and Chris Janisch will cover North

MWL

GRIZZLIES

From Page 14

From Page 11

Frank Geske, who is 79-27 at the school, coaches Marist, which took fifth in league last season with a 4-5 overall record and 4-3 conference mark.

North Eugene Rick Raish’s Highlanders will look to bounce back from a winless season (0-9, 0-7 MWL). They return league second-team senior receiver Alec Tucker, along with honorable mention quarterback Luke Arbogast (who threw for 2,139 yards and 21 TDs as a junior last fall). North Eugene’s other conference honorable-mention players who return are senior receiver Kody Pruett, senior punter Kyle Stogsdill and senior guard Eddie Hewitt.

Springﬁeld Former Roseburg High offensive coordinator Adam Jones takes over the program after Jon Helmandollar lost his position as a physical education teacher. The Millers had hoped to retain Helmandollar (who is now at Hillsboro), but a district seniority policy caused him to be moved from his teaching position because of a cut at another school in the district, the Register-Guard reported. Junior lineman Josh Spaulding, a second-team all-league pick on offense, returns, along with honorable mention junior center Tanner Klym. Springfield (which was 1-8 overall and 1-6 in league in 2016) graduated Nick Ah Sam, a MWL first-team linebacker. — Reach reporter Dan Jones at 541776-4499 or djones@mailtribune.com

will continue to run a spread offense and 3-4 defense, though they’ll likely slow down a little on offense to afford their many two-way players more time to rest. That first-year quarterback he referred to is senior Cade Swenson, a 6-foot, 170-pound senior who threw eight passes last year as Tucker Atteberry’s primary backup. Swenson will have the benefit of playing behind the most experienced unit on the team, an offensive line that includes four returning starters, and the challenge of leading an offense whose most prolific returner (Swenson himself) accounted for 31 yards of offense last season. To overcome that inexperience, at least initially, Lehnerz says the Grizzlies will probably look to the line to set the tone. Senior tackles Drake Morey (left) and Detlef Laughery will protect the edges, senior center Troy Boyd will call the shots and junior left guard Myles Montgomery is expected to take the next big step after his standout sophomore campaign. “We’re really going to rely on those guys up front,” Lehnerz said. “We really want to establish the run, and pass-wise, those guys should be able to give (Swenson) a lot of time.” Athleticism abounds at the skill positions. Sophomore running backs DeMario Watson and Austin Harris will take most of the handoffs, and seniors Anthony Swanson and Aaron Chandler are expected to be Swenson’s top targets after combining for three receptions a year ago, all by Chandler.

Medford and Ersepke and Harry Croton have South Medford. Jay Reese has the Grants Pass call, and Chris Phillips and John Beck will have Crater. Kenny Morales and Michael Gardner will cover St. Mary’s, and a student crew at Hidden Valley will broadcast select Mustangs contests. Table Rock Sports produced 264 live events last year, and another 40 state football, basketball and softball playoff and tournament games in conjunction with the National Federation of High Schools. On the radio, South

Medford and North Medford football can be found on KCMX (880-AM) and ESPN (96.1-FM/580AM), respectively. Jonathan Kurman, who was the voice of the Medford Rogues during part of the summer, will cover home games and ESPN Radio program director Matt Bagley will have road games until October. At that point, Bagley will take over North coverage and Zach Bigley will have South. KCMX (880-AM) and kcmxam.com will carry select St. Mary’s games. Pregame radio for all three teams will begin 15 minutes before kickoff.

Cade Swenson (2) takes over as Ashland’s quarterback and has shown steady improvement in the preseason. [LARRY STAUTH JR./ FOR THE MAIL TRIBUNE]

The Grizzlies’ offense struggled to get out of first gear during the Pacific Rim Bowl July 29 — Japan dominated the game 34-7 — but Lehnerz took solace in the fact that Swenson had plenty of time to throw the ball, even if that didn’t translate into points (the Grizzlies’ lone touchdown was Chandler’s fourth-quarter interception return). Since that game, in scrimmages, Swenson has focused on staying in the pocket and giving his receivers time to run their routes. He’s already shown much improvement in that area, says Lehnerz, but the real test will come when the Grizzlies open their season at Klamath Union. “(Swenson’s) only quarterbacking experience before was JV, and in JV you’re running for your life,” Lehnerz said. On staff to help accelerate Swenson’s development is former Ashland head coach Jim Nagel, whose expertise has already made a huge difference, says Lehnerz. “Instead of dropping back and chucking it, (Nagel’s) really having

Bagley also hosts an hour-long sports talk show called The Southern Oregon Sports Hour weekdays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. on ESPN Radio. Cascade Christian’s contests can be heard on KDOV (91.7-FM) and thedove.us, with pregame beginning approximately 20 minutes before kickoff. Live video, audio and statistics of Ashland games can be viewed at ashlandfootballclub.com. Tune in about 15 minutes before kickoff. Reach reporter Dan Jones at 541-776-4499, or email djones@mailtribune.com.

these guys read where they’re throwing, how they’re giving it or running it. We ask a lot (of the quarterbacks).” Ashland’s defense will be even less experienced than its offense, boasting only three returning starters in Morey, a powerful (6-5, 260) edge rusher, and linebackers Laughery and Montgomery. Also expected to step in and make key contributions are senior end Kadyn Kimbrough, senior nose guard Sam Miller, sophomore linebacker Finn Hayes and junior cornerback Ben Feinberg. Rinefort and Chandler will see plenty of time at safety, and Watson will play corner. With the speedy Rinefort and Chandler in the defensive backfield, Ashland opponents will likely see a strong dose of Cover 3. Rinefort, a sophomore who’s emerged as a leader, will also punt and kick for the Grizzlies and play tight end. Ashland excelled at forcing turnovers last season, recovering 11 fumbles and intercepting 20 passes, but often struggled to get off the field against strong rushing attacks, surrendering more than 200 yards a game. That weakness proved fatal in the state quarterfinals against Lebanon, as the eventual state champion rushed for 350 yards en route to an overtime victory. “I hope that we’re able to stop the run,” Lehnerz said. “The linebackers can run, they can read. Our D-line is going to require multiple guys to block them, so we’ll make teams pass. I feel like … we’ve had a lot of interceptions the last couple years, but we struggled stopping the run. We made people drive, but we need to stop the run.”

| Friday, September 1, 2017

2017 Prep Football

COMETS GLANCE

CRATER

HEAD COACH: Randy Waite (ﬁrst year). Crater advanced to the state playoffs nine times in the 13-year tenure of former coach John Beck.

From Page 12

Davis started the last couple games at quarterback last season as a freshman and showed flashes of brilliance. He’s adept at passing and running. He’ll also be the team’s kicker and punter and may filter in on defense at safety, said Waite. “He’s such an athletic kid — it’s going to be hard to keep him off the field,” said Waite of Davis. “He’s also a tireless worker, and that gains him respect with the older kids. He’s out on the field early almost every day throwing the football.” Other Comets expected to make an impact include slotback/safety Dylan Kinney, slotback/cornerback Bailee Robles and wide receiver/ strong safety Jesse Fisher. Waite said the Comets will continue to implement a nohuddle offense, but won’t be getting off plays every 15 to 20 seconds the way the team did the past few years, simply because they lack depth. While the Comets lack experience in the playing ranks, they don’t lack expertise or familiarity in the coaching category. Waite was wise enough to bring back a number of assistants from the John Beck era — namely David Douglas (offensive coordinator/quarterbacks), John Van Buren (defensive line), Zach Warner (defensive line), Darren Turituri (offensive line), Tommy O’Brien (linebackers) and Wes Davis (wide receivers). “Keeping some continuity was important,” said Waite.

GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: David Douglas (offensive coordinator/ quarterbacks), Berk Brown (defensive coordinator, Waite defensive backs), John Van Buren (defensive line), Zach Warner (defensive line), Beau Stanﬁeld (linebackers), Tommy O’Brien (linebackers, JV), Kevin Doren (defensive backs), Darren Turituri (offensive line), Wes Davis (head JV/wide receivers), Garret Butler (running backs/special teams coordinator). 2016 LEAGUE RECORD: 4-3 (tied fourth, MWL). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 5-5. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Fourth.

Crater’s Cade Weaver (5) is moving from wide receiver to running back and is expected to carry a heavy workload for the Comets. [MAIL TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO]

“We know our (Midwestern) league is tough, it always is, but the goal of getting to the playoffs is always out there.” Randy Waite, head coach

“These guys filled me in right away on what Crater Nation was, that good things have been going on here for a long time. “We’ve got some new terminology and our defense is completely different, but a lot of things haven’t changed.” With all of its new faces, Crater likely will be hardpressed to make the state playoffs. But the Comets qualified nine times in 13 seasons under Beck, and Waite believes the trend can continue. “We know our (Midwestern) league is tough,

it always is, but the goal of getting to the playoffs is always out there,” he said. The Comets will quickly learn their competitive status as they host a loaded Soldotna, Alaska, squad in their season-opener on Sept. 1. The Stars have won five straight medium school state championships, own a 53-game winning streak dating to 2012 and are 4-0 this season. Soldotna, located in south central Alaska on the Kenai Peninsula, has a population of 4,600 and the school has an enrollment of about 500 students.

2016 RESULTS Crater 13 39 34 35 13 20 3 53 40 State Playoffs 21

Opponents Oakdale (Calif.) 48 South Albany 24 Marist 20 Springﬁeld 7 Eagle Point 25 Thurston 27 Ashland 6 North Eugene 12 Churchill 21 Summit 50

RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (2): Running back Cade Weaver (6-1, 190, sr.), quarterback Trever Davis (5-9, 165, so.). DEFENSE: (3) Nose guard Daniel Flores (5-10, 260, sr.), outside linebacker Logan Lowder (6-1, 190, jr.), inside linebacker Tony Flores (5-8, 175, jr.). Lowder OTHER NOTABLES: Slotback/safety Dylan Kinney (5-7, 160, jr.), slotback/ cornerback Bailee Robles (5-10, 165, sr.), wide receiver/strong safety Jesse Fisher (5-11, 170, sr.). 2017 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 Sept. 8 Sept. 15 Sept. 22 Sept. 29 Oct. 6 Oct. 13 ASHLAND Oct. 20 Oct. 27

SOLDOTNA (Alaska), 7 p.m. SOUTH ALBANY, 7 p.m. MARIST, 7 p.m. SPRINGFIELD, 7 p.m. at Eagle Point, 7 p.m. THURSTON, 7 p.m. 7 p.m. at North Eugene, 7 p.m. at Churchill, 7 p.m.

D. Flores

T. Flores

2017 Prep Football

Friday, September 1, 2017 |

Expectations are high for veteran Phoenix Coach’s transfer quarterback son adds ﬁrepower By Frank Silow Mail Tribune

PHOENIX — The Phoenix Pirates enter the season with a stacked deck. In addition to a large number of talented returning starters, Phoenix landed a big-time transfer — the coach’s son, Javan Gail. It was a no-brainer to have Javan, a senior, transfer to Phoenix for his final prep season to play for his father. “We’re trying to create a good experience for Javan and what’s best for our family,” said Phoenix second-year coach Jered Gail, who lived six blocks from North Medford High from 2003 before moving into the Phoenix district after taking the job. Jered Gail, a Henley High and Southern Oregon University graduate, had a long assistant

coaching stint at Grants Pass and was on the Black Tornado staff for four seasons before getting the head job at Phoenix in May 2016. His 6-foot-2, 190-pound son remained at North Medford in 2016 — splitting starting quarterback duties with Josh Robbins, then taking over as the full-time signal caller when Robbins got injured. “Javan brings some poise and ability to the table,” said the Pirate coach. “He adds a dimension to our team that helps a lot.” The younger Gail is slotted to be a factor as a defensive back as well Talk about improving on positions of strength. If Gail gets the starting quarterback nod, it will be over two juniors who shared starting duties last year — Chase Courtney and Dylan Knudson — and he will be part of a defensive backfield that returns three of four starters. Offensively, Phoenix wants to establish an effective running

game as a foundation. Junior Cori Romig will get the bulk of the carries as the Pirates’ primary ball carrier behind sturdy fullback Mason Firestone and an experienced line. “Cori has worked on his physicality,” said coach Gail. “He’s got a whole year of being comfortable in our scheme. He’s good inside the tackles but even better outside.” With Javan Gail’s presence, Knudson and Courtney have been put in the receiving mix, giving the Pirates some good options. “Dylan is electric with the ball,” said Gail. “Chase is a possession receiver. He’s big and tall and can stretch the field.” With five of the six positions returning on the offensive line, Jered Gail’s expectations are high. “That’s a salty group of kids that have played a lot of football,” he said about tackles Ismael De La Torre and Seth Firestone, guard Matt Saurman, center Joey Price and tight end SEE PHOENIX, 20

Javan Gail, a senior quarterback and the head coach’s son, transferred from North Medford and will have an impact at quarterback and in the secondary. [MAIL TRIBUNE/JAMIE LUSCH]

| Friday, September 1, 2017

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SKYLINE CONFERENCE

Mazama looks sharp in Skyline Staff reports

The Mazama football team owns three straight undefeated seasons in the Skyline Conference and hasn’t lost a league game since Oct. 25, 2013. The Vikings return several strong players this fall, head coach Vic Lease said, but expectations are tempered. Mazama graduated the Skyline’s offensive and defensive players of the year in Tyler Mclin and Josh Hammers, respectively. “We’ll be OK,” said Lease, whose team went 7-2 overall and 5-0 in conference last season. “It’s hard to continue that type of success, but we have some young kids stepping up.” Mazama senior tackle Cameron Hankins is “the real deal,” Lease said, coming in at a generous 6-foot-5, 300 pounds. He’ll serve as the anchor of the line and give plenty of protection to senior quarterback Brandon McVey, a two-year starter. Senior halfback Braden Wright is a returning all-conference selection and senior split end/ defensive back Trey Lopez is the most explosive player on the squad, Lease said. Junior fullback Buddy Zakour (5-10, 210 pounds) makes for a special talent in Mazama’s tripleoption system. “He can run the ball, he can block and he can catch,” Lease said. “He’s the total package.” Mazama opens at South Umpqua and kicks of its league season at Phoenix Sept. 22. “(The Skyline Conference) is going to be better than it has been,” Lease said. “The last few years I didn’t feel like the conference top to bottom was very tough. There were two teams that were top-end 4A caliber football programs. At least half the league is quality (now), maybe more.”

North Valley Seniors Austin Clayton and Daniel Bolduc and juniors Zach Farmer and Brandon Farris enter their third year starting together on the offensive line and will be tasked with creating a comfortable environment for sophomore Toren Tuttle. Tuttle takes over at quarterback after an offseason battle

North Valley head coach Neil DeForrest expects the Knights to again contend for a state-playoff berth. [JOEL TAKARSH/GRANTS PASS DAILY COURIER]

with Gavin Tamblin was cut short when the latter suffered a fractured fibula at team camp. Tuttle was the JV quarterback last year and is the son of offensive coordinator Aaron Tuttle. Senior Daniel Cram takes over at running back and packs a punch at 200 pounds. He will be heavily featured, along with darting junior Tanner Hale. Christian Wytcherley provides a nice perimeter target at 6-foot6, and the Knights will be adding an H-back in Austin Soler and Dawson Manni to provide more strength in the running game to go with their receiving traits. Linebackers Cram and Manni expected to be freed up even more this year with the Knights’ switch to a 3-4 scheme, with Soler returning at middle linebacker and Wytcherley anchoring the safety spot. Head coach Neil DeForrest said the Knights, who were second in the Skyline at 4-1 last year and finished 8-2 overall, expect to compete for one of the league’s three state playoff berths.

Henley First-year head coach Alex

Stork inherits a veteran squad with 30 seniors and a host of returners, led by third-year starting quarterback Kyle Hadwick, that should allow Henley to compete for a spot in the Class 4A state playoffs. Hadwick (6-0, 180) is an elusive all-league performer who will have plenty of backfield help in powerful running back Will Conrad (5-11, 220). Paving the way for both will be returning linemen Logan Kappas (5-9, 215), Wyatt Quinowski (6-1, 215) and Garrett Campbell. John O’Connor will play a versatile role as a slot receiver and running back to go with his duties at linebacker, where he will be joined by sophomore up-and-coming talent John Tacchini (5-8, 190). Stork said he’s been impressed by the work thus far of defensive end Cody Seater (6-2, 200) and safety Connor Bryant (5-11, 180), with junior Hayden Rasica (6-1, 175) expected to have an impact on both sides of the ball and sophomore Heith Rasica (6-4, 190) showing enough promise that the Hornets will try to utilize some packages with him also at quarterback.

Stork, a former Klamath Union standout, most recently served as cornerbacks coach at Southern Oregon University last season and is Henley’s third head coach in four years.

Klamath Union All-Skyline senior linebacker Scott Coleman (5-10, 170) helps makes the Klamath Union defense the strength of the team. The Pelicans also return senior cornerback Eli Riddle (5-7, 160), linebacker Sam Corely and lineman Tyler Heaten (6-2, 270). Junior Izak Peterson (6-3, 200) has moved up from JV to win the quarterback spot. Peterson should give a boost to the KU passing game, which struggled last season. Corely will carry the load on the ground as the primary running back At tackles, Heaten, an allleague pick, will be paired with junior Jager Hogen (6-4, 230). Senior Grant Ysen (6-6, 170) returns at wide receiver Klamath Union coach Tom Smith is excited with the offensive possibilities of speedy sophomore Darius Holmes (6-2, 190).

Hidden Valley With a good nucleus of returning players, first-year coach James Powers is optimistic the Mustangs will be improved. Powers, a former, SOU player and 2002 graduate, had been on the Mustangs’ staff the four previous seasons and was an eight-year assistant at Eagle Point. Senior dual-threat quarterback Ethan Hill (6-1, 205) gives the offense versatility and leadership. Seniors Nick Elmore and Garrett McNair provide experience at running back, and a trio of receivers, led by 6-2 Casey Copeland, offer reliable targets for Hill. The Mustangs return only one starting offensive lineman, junior tackle Clancy Allen (6-2, 260), but Powers is encouraged by his options up front. Defensively, Elmore and Copeland are the leaders at middle linebacker and defensive end respectively. Senior Garrett Marcoulier, injured and lost for the season early last year, should play a big role at linebacker. And Brycen Stevens, Cole Lawson and McNair all return in the secondary.

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PIRATES GLANCE

PHOENIX From Page 17

Jonathan Halligan. On defense, the Pirates will need lots of improvement after giving up an average of 35 points a game a year ago. Courtney and De La Torre return as all-league performers on a defense that has experience with eight returning starters. And coach Gail lauds the efforts of middle linebacker Mason Firestone. Courtney “(Firestone) is the cog,” said Gail. “He’s nasty. He’s the maestro.” Gail sees a commitment and focus with this year’s team. “We have a group of De La Torre seniors who have taken over the leadership role,” said Gail. “They have got the other kids to buy in. The kids are leading themselves and not looking to the coaches for all the leadership.” M. Firestone The Pirates had 45 players at the SOU football camp, and coach Gail said they “held their own against bigger schools.” “Defensively and overall, we’re months ahead of where we were last year,” said Gail. “Our returning kids understand the game, and we’re bigger, stronger, faster than last year across the board.” “I’d be lying if I didn’t think we have a chance of competing for the Skyline championship,” added Gail. “That’s not out of reach.” Reach reporter Frank Silow at 541- Junior Dylan Knudson, who will see action at wide receiver, provides an explosive option 776-4480 or fsilow@mailtribune.com for the Pirates’ offense. [JAMIE LUSCH/MAIL TRIBUNE]

“Defensively and overall, we’re months ahead of where we were last year. Our returning kids understand the game, and we’re bigger, stronger, faster than last year across the board. I’d be lying if I didn’t think we have a chance of competing for the Skyline championship,” added Gail. “That’s not out of reach.” Jered Gail Pirates head coach

HEAD COACH Jered Gail (second year, 2-6). Coach Jered Gail believes Phoenix has the talent to win the Skyline Conference title for the ﬁrst time since 2009.

Gail

GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Tony McDougall (running backs/inside linebackers), Tim Seeley (linemen), Neill Carvalho (JV head coach), Dave Weber (wide receivers/defensive backs), Jacob Schauffler (defensive coordinator/ defensive backs), Ben Running (quarterbacks/wide receivers), Jim Bosworth (running backs/linebackers), Bill Hutchinson (JV), Austin Jeandin (JV). 2016 LEAGUE RECORD: 1-4 (tied for fifth, Skyline). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 2-6. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Second. 2016 RESULTS Phoenix 20 14 23 14 41 28 6 13

Opponents Crook County 14, OT Marshfield 47 South Umpqua 26 Mazama 58 Hidden Valley 17 North Valley 51 Henley 34 Klamath Union 34

RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (9): Tackle Ismael De La Torre (6-2, 260, sr.), fullback Mason Firestone (6-2, 220, sr.), tackle Seth Firestone (6-1, 250, jr.) quarterback/wide receiver Chase Courtney (6-2, 180, jr.), quarterback/wide receiver Dylan Knudson (5-10, 175, jr), tight end Jonathan Halligan (6-3, 220, sr).; running back Cori Romig (5-10, 165, jr.), guard Matt Saurman (5-10, 250, sr.), center Joey Price (6-1, 250, sr.) DEFENSE (8): Safety Chase Courtney, linebacker Mason Firestone, defensive back Dalton Samis (5-8, 160, jr.), linebacker Julian Peltier (5-10, 190, sr.), end Jonathan Halligan, end Seth Firestone, cornerback Dylan Knudson, tackle Ismael De La Torre. OTHER NOTABLES Quarterback/defensive back Javan Gail (6-2, 190, sr.), lineman Angel Angulo (6-0, 240, sr.), lineman Bailey Maynard (6-0, 220, sr.), wide receiver/defensive back Brandon Brumble (5-9, 160, sr.), wide receiver/defensive back Jackie Hawkins (6-0, 160, jr.), running back/linebacker Joey Wilson (5-10, 180, jr.), wide receiver/defensive back Cameron Cory (5-7, 165, so.), wide receiver/ defensive back Nik Goff (5-7, 150, so.) 2017 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 Sept. 8 Sept. 15 Sept. 22 Sept. 29 Oct. 6 Oct. 13 Oct. 20

CROOK COUNTY, at Marshfield, at South Umpqua, MAZAMA, at Hidden Valley, NORTH VALLEY, HENLEY, at Klamath Union,

7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7

p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m.

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2017 Prep Football

Challengers seek defensive turnaround CHALLENGERS GLANCE HEAD COACH: Jon Gettman (eighth year, 68-19). Cascade Christian has claimed seven straight Southern Cascade League titles under Gettman, going 21-0 in conference play and 68-19 overall. Gettman GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Mike Schaan (defensive coordinator/offensive line/defensive line), Sam Carpenter (defensive backs), Andy Scaglione (head JV/defensive backs/wide receivers), Jerry Birchﬁel (offensive/defensive lines), Joe Hagler (running backs), Daniel Scottow (wide receivers), Steve Furst (quarterbacks), Ryan Sample (JV), Matt Haggert (wide receivers). 2016 LEAGUE RECORD: 3-0 (ﬁrst, SCL). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 8-3. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: First.

Senior quarterback Haiden Schaan is back as Cascade Christian’s starter for the fourth year. He passed for 21 touchdowns and ran for 11 last season. [MAIL TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO]

Offense in capable hands with QB Schaan’s return By Don Hunt for the Mail Tribune

By most football teams’ standards, last season would be regarded as a success at Cascade Christian High School. The Challengers went unbeaten in Southern Cascade League play for the seventhstraight year, posted an overall record of 8-3 and advanced to the state quarterfinals for the third straight season. But for a program that has won two state titles and typically makes deep playoff runs, that’s not good enough. What annoys eighth-year head coach Jon Gettman isn’t so much that the Challengers have fallen short in recent years, it’s that they haven’t played up to their potential — especially last season, when their defense collapsed like an accordion in losses to Harrisburg, Paradise, Calif., and Coquille. The residue of the 52-21 state quarterfinals setback to Coquille has hung around the Challengers’ locker room like a foul smell. “They just manhandled us,” recalled Gettman of the Red Devils. “We’ve been a toughminded team over the years, but the three teams we lost to last year ran all over us. We missed tackles and blew assignments,

but more than anything, we were on our heels. That’s a toughness issue, and it’s something we’ve been addressing all summer. “We need to get back to our old ways on defense.” It’s not like the Challengers Dunn Ujdur lack talent, or experience. Six starters return on the Cascade Schaan returns for his fourth Christian stop unit, led by line- season behind center. The 6-0, 190-pounder backers Caleb Jordan, Cristian Flores-Alatorre and Luke Smith passed for 1,846 yards and 21 and free safety Ben Dunn. End touchdowns and ran for 793 Anthony Ujdur and cornerback yards and 11 scores a year ago while earning offensive player Jacob Crowl also return. Gettman believes the 6-foot- of the year honors in the SCL. 2, 230-pound Ujdur, a senior, He was also honorable mention and the 5-9, 185-pound Smith, all-state. Gettman said Schaan had a junior, could spark a defensive an exceptional summer in the renaissance. “It all starts up front with a passing league. “He’s bigger, stronger, more guy like Ujdur,” said Gettman. accurate and knows our offense “He’s a good athlete, with size, better than ever,” said Gettman. and he needs to be disruptive. If there’s one aspect Gettman And we think Smith could really be a difference-maker. He’s a is looking for Schaan to improve very explosive athlete at outside on, it’s leadership. “When things go wrong he linebacker.” has a tendency to get really Gettman is also looking for frustrated with himself and his two safeties — Dunn and Ian Fralich — to provide run- show too much emotion,” said Gettman. “He doesn’t make stuffing support. “We need all hands on deck,” many mistakes, but when he said Gettman, “especially makes one he needs to let it go against those physical teams and get on to the next play. “It’s all about leadership. I that will run you to death if you think we’re going to see a lot let them.” The offense, meanwhile, of growth in Haiden’s senior figures to again put up gaudy season.” SEE CHALLENGERS, 26 numbers as quarterback Haiden

2016 Results Cascade Christian 30 24 17 13 28 14 57 62 62 State Playoffs 49 21

Opponents Henley 13 Yreka 21 Mazama 14 Harrisburg 39 Paradise, Ca. 49 Santiam Christian 13 St. Mary’s 33 Illinois Valley 0 Lakeview 14 Scio 0 Coquille 52

RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (6): Quarterback Haiden Schaan (6-0, 190, sr.), wide receiver Benn Dunn (6-2, 185, sr.), guard Mason Bailey (6-1, 240, sr.), tackle Anthony Ujdur (6-2, 230, sr.), wide receiver John Fralich (5-10, 150, jr.), tackle Cristian Flores-Alatorre (6-2, 240, sr.). DEFENSE (6): Middle linebacker Cristian Flores-Alatorre, end Anthony Ujdur, free safety Ben Dunn, outside linebacker Caleb Jordan (5-9, 150, jr.), cornerback Jacob Crowl (5-10, 160, sr.), outside linebacker Luke Smith (5-9, 185, jr.), OTHER NOTABLES Defensive End Noah Stanﬁeld (5-9, 160, sr.), wide receiver/ defensive back Joel McLemore (6-1, 165, sr.), wide receiver/ defensive back Michael Coombs (5-9, 145, sr.), linebacker Josiah Sills (5-10, 175, sr.), linebacker Lance Shields (5-7, 165, sr.), wide receiver/defensive back Wyatt Lewis (6-1, 145, jr.), defensive end Dylan Jackson (5-10, 160, jr.), offensive guard/ inside linebacker Spencer Weeks (5-9, 230, jr.), nose tackle/ center Logan Flenner (5-9, 230, jr.), offensive guard/defensive end Jarod Beal (6-0, 230, jr.), offensive tackle/defensive end Cody Miller (6-3, 215, jr.), wide receiver/strong safety Ian Fralich (5-7, 150, jr.), linebacker/kicker Ethan Hoffman (5-9, 175, jr.), wide receiver/safety Kiegan Schaan (5-9, 160, so.). 2017 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 Sept. 8 Sept. 15 Sept. 22 Sept. 29 Oct. 6 Oct. 13 Oct. 21 Oct. 27

HENLEY, 7 p.m. at Yreka, 7:30 p.m. MAZAMA, 7 p.m. at Harrisburg, 7 p.m. at Paradise (Calif.), 7 p.m. SANTIAM CHRISTIAN, 7 p.m. LAKEVIEW, 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s, 7 p.m. ILLINOIS VALLEY, 7 p.m.

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Can young St. Mary’s remain relevant? CRUSADERS GLANCE

By Don Hunt for the Mail Tribune

There’s no truth to the rumor that St. Mary’s High football coach Jamie Young ordered several packages of diapers to go with the usual equipment to run the program. You couldn’t blame him if the thought crossed his mind. The Crusaders started eight seniors on offense and seven on defense last season when they catapulted into the state playoffs for the first time in 22 years, culminating a laborious climb that began in 2010 when Young took over a moribund program. Gridiron credibility had returned to a school that has seven state championship banners hanging on its gym wall. But now comes Young’s greatest challenge since his early years at St. Mary’s: keeping the team on a winning path with few seniors and a slew of sophomores expected to be in the starting lineup. As TV sportscaster Dick Vitale might say, the Crusaders are stocked with “Diaper Dandies.” “Some people might think we’re taking a step back, but we don’t look at it that way,” said Young. “Yes, we’re a developing team, but the commitment and the work ethic of the kids haven’t changed. We still think we can be a very good football team, especially by the time league play starts.” Young’s optimism is fueled by junior running back Gavin Rajagopal, who piled up more than 1,200 yards last season when St. Mary’s went 6-4 overall and 2-1 in the Southern Cascade League, and by his exceptionally talented sophomore class. It numbers a dozen, and most of those youngsters played on St. Mary’s Class 3A state championship baseball team last spring. “They’re coming off a state title and so they’re used to winning,” said Young. “They expect to win. And to show how dedicated they are to us, they were in the weight room within a day or two after winning the title.” The sophomores who figure to provide an immediate impact are wide receiver Josh Covington, quarterback/

HEAD COACH: Jamie Young (eighth year, 34-31). St. Mary’s advanced to the Young state playoffs last season for the ﬁrst time since 1994. GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Josh Aldrich (offensive coordinator), Adam Peterson (offensive line), Steve Thomas (defensive line/tight end), John Wing (offensive line/defensive line/JV), Ben Young (defensive backs/running backs), Steve Jacobacci (quarterbacks). 2016 LEAGUE RECORD: 2-1 (second, SCL). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 6-4. PREDICTED FINISH THIS YEAR: Second.

Running back Gavin Rajagopal had more than 1,200 yards last season in earning all-league honors. He’ll again be the Crusaders’ workhorse. [MAIL TRIBUNE FILE PHOTO]

cornerback Aliiloa KaeoWailehua, tight end/linebacker Cobey Aldrich, linebacker/Hback Brady Eiler, center/ defensive tackle John Beattie and offensive tackle/nose guard Nate Thickett. But the team’s iron horse is clearly Rajagopal, who earned first-team all-SCL and honorable mention all-state honors last season. “He’s a very fluid runner who breaks tackles and is always looking for the extra yards,” said Young of the 5-10, 175-pound Rajagopal, who doubles as a safety on defense. “Even when he’s making cuts, he’s moving forward. “He’s also now in a leadership role. The younger kids look up to him.” The only starters returning besides Rajagopal are junior center Aidan Young — the coach’s son — and junior H-back Jake Reynolds. As much as coach Young expects to feed the ball to Rajagopal, he won’t be bashful about handing it or throwing it to Reynolds. It was Reynolds, a 5-10, 220-pounder, who ripped off a 72-yard touchdown run early in the second half against eventual state champion Harrisburg. St. Mary’s trailed by 20 points at halftime but pulled within

Miles

Reynolds

48-42 with a couple minutes remaining and just missed recovering an onside kick. “That was the game that convinced our kids we could beat anyone at our (Class 3A) level, and Jake really ignited us with that long run,” said Young. “He’s a load, but he’s got some speed, too.” Defensively, Aidan Young and Reynolds return as starting linebackers and junior Jake Sieg (cornerback) and senior Mike Miles (safety) are back in the secondary. The most impactful sophomores could be Covington, who has excelled at wide receiver in summer workouts, and Kaeo-Wailehua, who will surely see the field on defense and could push for snaps at quarterback. Junior Cody Conner, a converted wide receiver, has the early inside track for the QB job. “Cody has separated himself a little bit, but we might use multiple quarterbacks,” said Young.

Young

St. Mary’s lost offensive coordinator Berk Brown — who was instrumental in helping the Crusaders average nearly 38 points per game last season — to Crater. But it picked up San Diego transplant Steve Jacobacci, a quarterback guru who has coached for nearly four decades. “With our young quarterbacks, Steve is going to be a huge asset,” said Young. “We feel very fortunate to have him on board.” The Crusaders have another difficult schedule, with state powers Harrisburg , Coquille and league rival Cascade Christian on the slate. St. Mary’s isn’t shying away from the challenge, despite its youth. “We’re going to get battletested early,” said Young, noting that Harrisburg comes to Medford on Sept. 9. “And that’s OK. I’m excited to see how these young kids respond, and I’m really excited to see how much we improve by the time league starts.”

2016 Results St. Mary’s 34 42 49 6 54 50 33 55 49 State Playoffs 7

Opponents Creswell 12 Harrisburg 48 Gold Beach 0 Coquille 56 Vernonia 14 Clatskanie 0 Cascade Christian 57 Lakeview 7 Illinois Valley 7 Coquille 54

RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (3): Running back Gavin Rajagopal (5-10, 175, jr.), center Aidan Young (5-9, 190, jr.), H-back Jake Reynolds (5-10, 220, jr.). DEFENSE (4): Linebacker Aidan Young, linebacker Jake Reynolds, cornerback Jake Sieg (6-0, 170, jr.), safety Mike Miles (5-11, 175, sr.). OTHER NOTABLES: Offensive guard/ defensive end Garrett Arman (6-1, 180, sr.), offensive tackle/ nose guard Nate Thickett (6-0, 245, so.), tight end/linebacker Cobey Aldrich (5-9, 170, so.), quarterback Cody Conner (5-10, 160, jr.), wide receiver Josh Covington (5-7, 150, so.), quarterback/cornerback Aliiloa Kaeo-Wailehua (5-9, 150, so.), linebacker/H-back Brady Eiler (5-9, 160, so.), center/defensive tackle John Beattie (6-0, 170, so.). 2017 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 at Creswell, 7 p.m. Sept. 9 HARRISBURG, 7 p.m. Sept. 15 at Gold Beach, 7 p.m. Sept. 23 COQUILLE, 7 p.m. Sept. 29 TAFT, 7 p.m. Oct. 7 CLATSKANIE, 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at Illinois Valley, 7 p.m. Oct. 21 CASCADE CHRISTIAN, 7 p.m. Oct. 27 at Lakeview, 7 p.m.

2017 Prep Football

Friday, September 1, 2017 |

Rogue River tackles eight-man game Veteran Chieftains will compete in unofficial league By Warren Blenkush Mail Tribune

ROGUE RIVER — With three fewer players on each side of the ball, the Class 3A Rogue River football team might be hard to recognize when its players set up at the line of scrimmage this fall. The Chieftains will transition from playing traditional 11-man football to the Class 1A-level eight-man style, which will be a welcome change for the school and players. Rogue River hasn’t enjoyed a winning season since 2009 and hasn’t won a game since late in 2013, just before the Chieftains switched from the Southern Cascade League to an independent schedule in 2014. Rogue River is the smallest school in Class 3A — based on average daily membership — which has stunted player turnout.

The Chieftains will play in an unofficial league with independent Class 1A Chavez eight-man teams from Riddle, Bonanza and Crow. “It’s hard when you don’t have Hooker as much participation going on and have nine freshmen on the field playing a varsity schedule,” said third-year Rogue River coach Ryan Riggle as he recalled the obstacles when he started in 2015. “This change will be better for the players and school.” In his first year here, Riggle started the nine rookies with an offense led by freshman quarterback Derek Nelson. With Nelson now a junior and the pair in their third season together,

the Chieftains could see immediate success with a now-experienced squad powered by freighttrain running back Jacob Tambellini. “He just runs, and runs and runs,” said Riggle. “He has an engine like no one I’ve ever met before.” The spread offense will feature veer and power packages with a healthy mix of read option, which should be enhanced by the eightman style’s open field. Opening holes for Tambellini, as well as change-of-pace running back Carson Smith, will be 6-foot 275-pound senior tackle Gabe Echaide and senior center Bill McVeigh. Sophomore Gabe Tambellini was recovering from a broken collarbone but was expected to be ready to start the season. Nelson will get the ball into the hands of senior wide receiver Chris Wilkerson, junior speedster receiver Cameron Hooker and 6-foot-1, 225-pound

tight end Ethan Canoe, as well as Tristen Spaeth. Jose Chavez serves as a jack-of-all-trades. The 5-foot-10, 225-pounder can play fullback, tailback, wide receiver and on the offensive line. “He’s really versatile and smart enough to know all the other positions,” said Riggle. “He knows what everyone is supposed to be doing on every play. It’s nice to have a guy like that.” On the other side of the ball, the Chieftains will play a 3-3 defense with a double safety look, hoping to utilize the speed of their personnel. The defense will be anchored by Echaide at nose guard as well as junior linebacker Caleb Barnwell and junior defensive end Spaeth. Wilkerson will also play linebacker and safety with the junior Hooker manning the other safety position. Reach reporter Warren Blenkush at 541-776-4492 or wblenkush@mailtribune. com

Some of Rogue River’s starters as it embarks on an eight-man season, from left: Derek Nelson, Gabe Echaide, Austin Gardner, Chris Wilkerson and Jacob Tambellini. [DENISE BARATTA/FOR THE MAIL TRIBUNE]

CHIEFTAINS GLANCE HEAD COACH Ryan Riggle (third year, 0-13). GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Dwayne Nelson (offensive coorRiggle dinator), Mike McCormick (offensive line/defensive line), Sean Smith (defensive backs/ running backs), Jack Cosgrove (wide receiver/offensive strategist). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 0-8. 2016 RESULTS Rogue River Opponents 8 Myrtle Point 28 6 Bandon 28 8 Oakland 69 0 Gold Beach 8 Illinois Valley 46 12 Lost River 41 14 Monroe 53 0 Oakridge 42 RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (11): Tailback/fullback Jacob Tambellini (5-10, 200, sr.), center Bill McVeigh (5-8, 150, sr.), right tackle Gabe Echaide (6-0, 275, sr.), quarterback Derek Nelson (6-0, 200, jr.), tight end Ethan Canoe (6-1, 210, jr.), wide receiver/tight end Aiden Canoe (5-9, 155, so.), fullback Caleb Barnwell (6-0, 185, jr.), wide receiver Cameron Hooker (5-8, 145, jr.), wide receiver Tristen Spaeth (6-0, 185, jr.), wide receiver Chris Wilkerson (6-0, 170, sr.), fullback/tailback/wide receiver/ offensive line Jose Chavez (5-10, 225, jr.). DEFENSE (8): Nose tackle Gabe Echaide, defensive end Jacob Tambellini, outside linebacker Derek Nelson, strong safety/linebacker Ethan Canoe, outside linebacker/ strong safety Chris Wilkerson, middle linebacker Caleb Barnwell, free safety Cameron Hooker, defensive end Tristen Spaeth. OTHER NOTABLES Guard/tackle Gabe Tambellini (5-10, 220, so.), tailback Carson Smith (5-7, 150, so.), offensive line Brandon Gordon (5-10, 175, so.), tight end/ quarterback/defensive end Austin Gardner (6-2, 185, jr.). 2017 SCHEDULE Sept. 1 MYRTLE POINT, 7 p.m. Sept. 8 at Siletz Valley, 7 p.m. Sept. 22 GOLD BEACH, 7 p.m. Sept. 29 CROW, 7 p.m. Oct. 6 BONANZA, 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at Crow, 7 p.m. Oct. 20 RIDDLE, 7 p.m. Oct. 27 at Bonanza, 7 p.m.

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2017 Prep Football

SOUTHERN CASCADE LEAGUE

Challenge is on in the SCL Three are expected to vie for second berth to the state playoffs By Dan Jones Mail Tribune

Cascade Christian’s continued success is expected among coaches in the four-team Southern Cascade League. The Challengers claimed their eighth straight conference title last year before ultimately falling to Coquille/ Pacific in the Class 3A state quarterfinals. They are the unanimous favorites to win the league again after recent voting by SCL coaches. If the season goes according to form, that leaves St. Mary’s, Lakeview and Illinois Valley in a fight for the other automatic playoff berth. Fifteen 3A teams automatically qualify for the OSAA’s 16-team bracket, including two from the SCL. Last fall, Cascade Christian went 8-3 overall and 3-0 in league play. The second-place Crusaders were 6-4 and 2-1 in conference, while Lakeview finished in third (3-5, 1-2) and

Illinois Valley fourth 1-7, 0-3).

Lakeview At Lakeview, coach Rusty Zysett guides a 44-player turnout that includes returning SCL lineman of the year Alex Decker (a senior). Also back for the Honkers are senior defensive back Dom Maita and senior special-teamer Cotter Shullanberger, both SCL first-teamers. The offense will be charged by quarterback Shullanberger, running back Jace Brazeal and receivers Jerry Patzke and Nolan Petersen. Other impact players include offensive lineman/linebacker Reece Raines, lineman Matthew Armbrust, defensive back Lonnie Brooks and receiver/defensive back Kaden Greenfield. The Honkers graduated SCL first-team running back David Arcularius and receiver Derrick Dunn and linebacker

Noah Steward. “We have good depth at most positions,” Zysett said.

Illinois Valley At Cave Junction, Bruce Reece leads a squad with three returning first-team all-league selections in senior offensive lineman Randy Bates, senior defensive lineman Nathan Klaiss and sophomore defensive back Elijah Polk. Pepe Mendoza, who received honorable mention, is now a senior at Illinois Valley. Other Cougars to watch include quarterback/defensive back Caleb Hess and running back/linebacker Dane Alvarez. First-team SCL selection Skylar McLanahan graduated. Former league member Rogue River will continue as an independent program after going winless last season. Reach reporter Dan Jones at 541-776-4499 or djones@ mailtribune.com

CHALLENGERS From Page 22

Schaan’s favorite targets figure to be Dunn, a first-team all-league performer in 2016, and junior John Fralich. Gettman said the 6-2, 180-pound Dunn doesn’t frighten opponents with his speed, but he has great hands, runs precise routes and is especially effective at catching the ball in traffic. Dunn is also one of the top place-kickers in the state. He made more than 90 percent of his extra-point kicks and 6 of 8 field goals a year ago in earning firstteam all-state accolades. John Fralich, meanwhile, looks primed for a breakout season as a starting wideout. “He started as a sophomore and came into summer camp with a lot more confidence,” said Gettman of the 5-10, 150-pound Fralich. “He’s going to have a good year.” Jordan, who focused mostly on defense last season, is ready to take over the load at running back, with help from Crowl. “Caleb (Jordan) isn’t the biggest kid but he’s a strong runner who keeps his legs driving,” said Gettman. “He takes a hit and keeps on going.”

Three starters return in the offensive line — guard Mason Bailey and tackles Ujdur and Flores-Alatorre. Gettman is searching for someone to become the verbal leader. “That’s the big question mark,” he said. “We think Mason Bailey could be the kid to step up and be the verbal communicator that we need in the offensive line. We’ve got talent and depth with seven or eight kids working at the five spots. We just need someone to step up and lead us.” The schedule is again formidable, with contests against Class 4A heavyweights Henley and Mazama, Paradise, Calif., defending 3A state champion Harrisburg, Santiam Christian — which advanced to the 3A semifinals last season — and upstart St. Mary’s, which made the playoffs for the first time in 22 years in 2016 and put 33 points on the board against Cascade Christian. Gettman believes the Challengers, who boast an unusually high number of seniors (11) and juniors (13), can be a handful for any of those opponents. But they’ll need to get more ornery on defense to make a serious run at their first state title since 2013.

Prep Football 2017

Friday, September 1, 2017 |

Ex-player Slaton takes over Prospect Cougars are short on experience, long on spirit By Frank Silow Mail Tribune

PROSPECT — Jimmy Slaton was motivated to stay in school because of prep football. Slaton, an all-star on Prospect High’s most successful team in recent history, returns as the head coach. “Football got me through high school,” said Slaton, a 2006 Prospect graduate. “I want to pass on the experience to younger kids. I’m trying to help out and be a positive influence.” When eighth-year coach coach David Boekenoogen resigned in the spring, Slaton, a middle school assistant coach for three years, applied and got hired.

Slaton comes with a history of achievement. As a player, his 2005 Cougars went 8-2, finishing second to Days Creek in the Skyline A League. At 6-foot-2, 240-pounds, he was an all-league center and linebacker multiple years. Only five players turned out for Slaton’s summer football camp, but the number swelled to 16 for the beginning of fall practice. “I knew I needed at least eight to play, so I told them to go home and bring their friends,” said Slaton, who works as a local bartender. “If the kids go home and talk about how much fun they’re having, then their friends will want to come with them. “Also, I coached a lot of these kids in middle school, so they know what to expect from me.” SEE PROSPECT, 29

Austin Leopoldo, a sophomore receiver and cornerback, and Shane Lawler, who is moving to quarterback, are Prospect’s returning starters. [LARRY STAUTH JR./FOR THE MAIL TRIBUNE]

| Friday, September 1, 2017

Prep Football 2017

Hopeful Loggers make return to gridiron Butte Falls, Crater Lake Charter join forces to ﬁeld team By Dan Jones Mail Tribune

BUTTE FALLS — The Loggers are back in business. After missing the 2016 season because of a lack of players, Butte Falls will return to the field this fall. The Loggers have partnered with Crater Lake Charter Academy to play an independent sevengame schedule of Class 1A eight-man football. Crater Lake Charter Academy is a public school charted through Eagle Point School District 9. It opened its doors in 2014 and has an enrollment cap of 265 this school year. The academy, which doesn’t have teams of its own, had previously shared some players with

Eagle Point. The two programs will co-opt in other sports, as well. “For sports purposes, both schools needed facilities and needed players, so it worked out for both,” head coach Jody Crowe said. The Loggers are a roster of 15, with five seniors, four juniors, two sophomores and four freshmen. About half are from each school, Crowe said. The team practices at and will play its home contests at Butte Falls High. Bus travel arrangements are in the works for players living in Eagle Point, Crowe added. After Darren Kinyon posted a 3-25 record as head coach the previous three seasons, Shawn Grady took over the Butte SEE LOGGERS, 29

Butte Falls senior football players, from left: Isaac Tiry, Jordan Davis, Billie Tucker, Dalton Lester and Tanner Thompson. [LARRY STAUTH JR./FOR THE MAIL TRIBUNE]

Prep Football 2017

LOGGERS GLANCE HEAD COACH Jody Crowe (ﬁrst year). Butte Falls has partnered with Crater Lake Charter Academy to ﬁeld a team of 15 this fall after missing last season due to low numbers. GENERAL INFORMATION ASSISTANTS: Mike Lester (offensive line/defensive line), Chase Ellis (running backs/defensive backs).

Crowe

NOTABLES Quarterback/running back/cornerback/safety Isaac Tiry (5-10, 170, sr.), safety/cornerback/receiver/quarterback Dalton Lester (6-3, 175, sr.), running back/linebacker/outside defensive end Jordan Davis (5-10, 170, sr.), utility Zack Genereaux (6-2, 185, so.), utility Josh Patreau (5-10, 200, so.), center/defensive lineman Wyatt Carlton (6-1, 195, fr.), running back Tanner Thompson (6-0, 175, jr.), receiver Kaleb Tiry (5-7, 135, jr.), receiver/ cornerback Kai Hansen (5-5, 135, so.), offensive lineman/defensive end Billie Tucker (6-3, 205).

“I’m pretty impressed with everyone I have. Some of the upperclassmen are really taking the younger kids under their wing and helping us build a program.” Jody Crowe Loggers head coach

LOGGERS From Page 28

Falls program in 2015. The Loggers went 2-7 overall and 1-4 in the Mountain Valley League before sitting out last season. Enter the 42-year-old Crowe, a former player at College of the Siskiyous who assisted Jeff Olson as a defensive backs coach at Southern Oregon University in the 1990s. The Eagle Point resident will work for Crater Lake Charter Academy as a learning center facilitator this school year as he guides the Loggers, whose home contests are meetings with Prospect (Sept. 16) and Gilchrist (Oct. 7). “This is what I’ve always wanted to do,” Crowe said. “I see this as a longterm relationship with Butte Falls and Crater Lake Charter Academy.” The Loggers’ senior leaders include quarterback/running back/cornerback/ safety Isaac Tiry (a Butte Falls student and multiple-sport participant), safety/ cornerback/receiver/backup QB Dalton Lester (a CLCA student) and running back/linebacker/outside defensive end Jordan Davis (CLCA). Billie Tucker, another senior, is a 6-foot-3, 205-pound offensive lineman/ defensive end. “He’s a great addition,” Crowe said. The older students have taken on leadership roles, Crowe said, serving as

player-coaches at times. “I’m pretty impressed with everyone I have,” Crowe said. “Some of the upperclassmen are really taking the younger kids under their wing and helping us build a program.” Junior Tanner Thompson (CLCA) will be a focus of the backfield while taking on several defensive positions, while junior Kaleb Tiry (Isaac’s brother) should see plenty of time at receiver and cornerback. Sophomore utility player Zack Genereaux (CLCA) has strong pass-blocking skills and sophomore utility player Josh Patreau (Butte Falls) is a great kid who works hard, Crowe said. Sophomore receiver/cornerback Kai Hansen (CLCA) gives Butte Falls’ additional speed. Freshman center/defensive lineman Wyatt Carlton (Butte Falls) is a tough player with a bright future, Crowe added. Though each player has some favored spots on the field, they’ll be able to play anywhere, Crowe said. He said his squad will run a double-wing set. Assistants Mike Lester (offensive line/ defensive line) and Chase Ellis (running backs/defensive backs) will work alongside Crowe. “Everybody plays a different position at least once during practice,” Crowe said. “Freshmen are learning how to snap the ball and tackle properly. If anybody goes down, we’ll be ready.” Reach reporter Dan Jones at 541-7764499 or djones@mailtribune.com

Friday, September 1, 2017 |

PROSPECT

COUGARS GLANCE

From Page 27

HEAD COACH Jimmy Slaton (ﬁrst year). Former Prospect all-league performer Jimmy Slaton moves up from being a middle school assistant coach and inherits Slaton a team short on experience. ASSISTANT: Jack Gans (offense). 2016 LEAGUE RECORD: 2-3 (fourth, District 2 West). 2016 OVERALL RECORD: 4-4.

Slaton inherits a bare cupboard from last year’s .500 team. Having only two returning starters and a large contingent of freshmen is not usually a formula for success. But Slaton is not deterred: “My thinking is, if you play with everything you have, you can’t lose. You may not win the scoreboard, but you won’t lose.” The Cougars’ returning starters are senior Shane Lawler and sophomore Austin Leopoldo. Lawler is being moved to quarterback after playing running back last year. Leopoldo is a speedy wide receiver and cornerback. “(Lawler) is extremely fast and can think on his feet,” said Slaton. “We’re definitely not going to be throwing the ball down the field. We’re going to try to control the ball. The best defense is a good offense.” Lawler’s younger brother, James, and diminutive senior Brendan Raines (5-5, 122) look to be primary ball carriers. “They’re both bounce-back runners and are ready to get hit again,” said Slaton. “With Brendan being so short, it’s hard to see him coming through the line.” In practice, Slaton has turned the tables on the backs and linemen. “I put the running backs at guard and the guards at running back to show them it’s not easy,” said Slaton. “If you don’t do your job, they can’t do their job. You may not be the one scoring, but you’re allowing it to happen.” Matthew Nelson, a sophomore center, has the most offensive-line experience. The rest of the interior line will be made up of a group of freshmen and sophomores. “The linemen have played together for me at the middle school level for a couple of years,” said Slaton. “They’re enthusiastic.” Slaton looks for diversity on the squad. “We’re going to use a bunch of players,” said Slaton. “We’re going to rotate them through and see who plays well with who.” On defense, Slaton believes in a bend-but-don’t-break philosophy. “We’re going to be unconventional,” said Slaton. “We’re going to force people to want to run on us. If you drive 80 yards in 10 plays, you earned it.” Slaton acknowledges it might be a growing year for the Cougars, but the former Prospect standout is not conceding much.

2016 RESULTS Prospect 68 70 22 54 88 50 54

Opponents Chiloquin 34 North Lake 24 Camas Valley 50 Days Creek 70 Elkton 62 Glendale 26 Chiloquin 70

RETURNING STARTERS OFFENSE (2): Running back Shane Lawler (5-10, 150, sr.), receiver Austin Leopoldo (5-10, 155, so.). DEFENSE (2): Cornerback Austin Leopoldo, safety Shane Lawler. OTHER NOTABLES: Tight end/middle linebacker Michael Combs-Cripps (5-10, 144, so.), center/defensive end Matthew Nelson (6-2, 155, so.), running back/linebacker James Lawler (5-10, 150, jr.), running back/safety Brendan Raines (5-5, 122, sr.), guard Jayce Peck (5-7, 240, so.), guard/defensive end Nick Strahan (5-8, 165, fr.), center/ linebacker Jaydon Taylor (5-8, 220, fr.), running back/linebacker Sean Jermain (5-5, 185, fr.), safety Aaron Linam (5-6, 106, fr.), end Kyle Ghirardo (5-6, 150, fr.), guard/ center Jason Ghirardo (5-8, 170, so.), guard Kohl Kusel (5-6, 159, fr.), end/safety (Nathan Glover (5-9, 165, fr.). 2017 SCHEDULE Sept. 8 CHILOQUIN, 7 p.m. Sept. 16 BUTTE FALLS/CRATER LAKE, 7 p.m. Sept. 22 at Days Creek, 1 p.m. Sept. 29 at Elkton, 4 p.m. Oct. 6 POWERS, 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at Glendale, 7 p.m. Oct. 20 CAMAS VALLEY, 7 p.m.

“If our kids give me what they gave me in middle school, I think we can compete,” said Slaton. “We’re not going to roll over for anyone.” Reach reporter Frank Silow at 541-776-4480 or fsilow@mailtribune.com

| Friday, September 1, 2017

Prep Football 2017

COACHES POLLS

PAST CHAMPIONS Southwest Conference 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 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 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) Southern Cascade League 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) District 2 / Mountain Valley League 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)

SOUTHWEST CONFERENCE 1. Sheldon 2. South Medford 3. Grants Pass 4. North Medford 5. Roseburg 6. Willamette 7. South Eugene First-place votes: Sheldon 4, South Medford 3.

34 33 26 20 15 13 6

MIDWESTERN LEAGUE 1. Churchill 45 2. Thurston 44 3. Marist 35 4. Crater 31 5. Ashland 24 5. Eagle Point 24 7. North Eugene 11 8. Springﬁeld 10 First-place votes: Churchill 4, Thurston 3, Crater 1. SKYLINE CONFERENCE 1. Mazama 2. Phoenix 3. North Valley 4. Henley 5. Klamath Union 6. Hidden Valley First-place votes: Mazama 5, North Valley 1.

25 18 16 14 12 5

SOUTHERN CASCADE LEAGUE 1. Cascade Christian 9 2. St. Mary’s 7 2. Lakeview 5 4. Illinois Valley 3 First-place votes: Cascade Christian 3, St. Mary’s 1.

Prep Football 2017

Friday, September 1, 2017 |

SEASON SCHEDULE Aug 31

Sept. 9

Sept. 29

MIDWESTERN Glencoe at Eagle Point

SKYLINE Henley at Bishop-Manogue (Nev.) Salem Academy at Klamath Union SOUTHERN CASCADE Harrisburg at St. Mary’s

SOUTHWEST South Medford at North Medford Sprague at Grants Pass Willamette at South Eugene Roseburg at Sheldon MIDWESTERN Crater at Eagle Point Springﬁeld at Ashland North Eugene at Marist Churchill at Thurston SKYLINE Phoenix at Hidden Valley Henley at North Valley Klamath Union at Mazama SOUTHERN CASCADE Cascade Christian at Paradise, Calif. Clatskanie at Illinois Valley Modoc at Lakeview DISTRICT 2 Prospect at Elkton INDEPENDENT Crow at Rogue River Butte Falls/Crater Lake at Chiloquin

Sept 1 SOUTHWEST Wilsonville at South Medford North Medford at Fortuna Grants Pass at Century Southridge at Sheldon Gresham at Roseburg South Eugene at Franklin Willamette at Churchill MIDWESTERN Soldotna, Alaska at Crater Ashland at Klamath Union Crescent Valley at Marist Lebanon at Springﬁeld Ridgeview at Thurston Corvallis at North Eugene Willamette at Churchill SKYLINE Crook County at Phoenix Henley at Cascade Christian North Valley at Brookings-Harbor Hidden Valley at Sweet Home Mazama at South Umpqua SOUTHERN CASCADE St. Mary’s at Creswell Henley at Cascade Christian Culver at Illinois Valley INDEPENDENT Myrtle Point at Rogue River

Sept 8 SOUTHWEST Shasta, Calif., at North Medford South Medford at West Linn Aloha at Grants Pass Thurston at Willamette Roseburg at David Douglas Sheldon at Sunset Churchill at South Eugene MIDWESTERN South Albany at Crater Eagle Point at Ridgeview Summit at Ashland Springﬁeld at Crescent Valley Thurston at Willamette North Eugene at Dallas Marist at Lebanon SKYLINE Phoenix at Marshﬁeld Brookings-Harbor at Hidden Valley South Umpqua at North Valley Del Norte, Calif., at Mazama SOUTHERN CASCADE Cascade Christian at Yreka, Calif. Illinois Valley at Santiam Christian Burns at Lakeview DISTRICT 2 Chiloquin at Prospect INDEPENDENT Rogue River at Siletz Valley Butte Falls/Crater Lake at Bonanza

Sept. 15 SOUTHWEST Willamette at South Medford North Medford at South Eugene Roseburg at Grants Pass West Salem at Sheldon MIDWESTERN Eagle Point at Springﬁeld Marist at Crater Ashland at Churchill North Eugene at Thurston SKYLINE Phoenix at South Umpqua Douglas at Hidden Valley North Valley at Sutherlin Mazama at Cascade Christian Klamath Union at Mt. Shasta Yreka, Calif., at Henley SOUTHERN CASCADE St. Mary’s at Gold Beach Mazama at Cascade Christian Myrtle Point at Illinois Valley Lakeview at Lost River INDEPENDENT Rogue River at Chiloquin

Sept. 16 DISTRICT 2 Butte Falls/Crater Lake at Prospect

Sept. 22 SOUTHWEST Sheldon at North Medford South Medford at South Salem Grants Pass at Willamette??? South Eugene at Roseburg MIDWESTERN Thurston at Eagle Point Springﬁeld at Crater Ashland at Marist Churchill at North Eugene SKYLINE Mazama at Phoenix Hidden Valley at North Valley Henley at Klamath Union SOUTHERN CASCADE Cascade Christian at Harrisburg Bandon at Illinois Valley Lakeview at Irrigon DISTRICT 2 Prospect at Days Creek INDEPENDENT Rogue River at Gold Beach Butte Falls/Crater Lake at North Lake

Sept. 23 SOUTHERN CASCADE Coquille at St. Mary’s

Oct. 6 SOUTHWEST North Medford at Roseburg Grants Pass at South Medford Sheldon at South Eugene Willamette at Lebanon MIDWESTERN Eagle Point at Ashland Thurston at Crater Marist at Churchill North Eugene at Springﬁeld SKYLINE North Valley at Phoenix Klamath Union at Hidden Valley Mazama at Henley SOUTHERN CASCADE Santiam Christian at Cascade Christian Lakeview at Fall River, Calif. DISTRICT 2 Powers at Prospect INDEPENDENT Bonanza at Rogue River

Oct. 7 SOUTHERN CASCADE Clatskanie at St. Mary’s INDEPENDENT Gilchrist at Butte Falls/Crater Lake

Oct. 13 SOUTHWEST South Medford at Roseburg Grants Pass at North Medford Willamette at Sheldon MIDWESTERN Eagle Point at North Eugene Ashland at Crater Churchill at Springﬁeld Marist at Thurston SKYLINE Henley at Phoenix

Hidden Valley at Mazama Klamath Union at North Valley SOUTHERN CASCADE Lakeview at Cascade Christian St. Mary’s at Illinois Valley DISTRICT 2 Prospect at Glendale INDEPENDENT Rogue River at Crow

Oct. 14 INDEPENDENT Butte Falls at Triad

Oct. 20 SOUTHWEST South Medford at Sheldon McNary at North Medford South Eugene at Grants Pass Roseburg at Willamette MIDWESTERN Crater at North Eugene Churchill at Eagle Point Ashland at Thurston Springﬁeld at Marist SKYLINE Phoenix at Klamath Union Hidden Valley at Henley North Valley at Mazama SOUTHERN CASCADE Illinois Valley at Lakeview DISTRICT 2 Camas Valley at Prospect INDEPENDENT Riddle at Rogue River

Sept. 21 SOUTHERN CASCADE Cascade Christian at St. Mary’s INDEPENDENT Butte Falls/Crater Lake at Hosanna Christian

Sept. 27 SOUTHWEST North Medford at Willamette South Eugene at South Medford Sheldon at Grants Pass Roseburg at North Salem MIDWESTERN Crater at Churchill Marist at Eagle Point North Eugene at Ashland Thurston at Springﬁeld SOUTHERN CASCADE St. Mary’s at Lakeview Illinois Valley at Cascade Christian INDEPENDENT Rogue River at Bonanza

X32

| Friday, September 1, 2017