Top 10 Must See 2010 2A GSHL Football Games

10 – Washougal at Hudson’s Bay
9 – Rainier OR at R.A. Long
8 – Aberdeen at R.A. Long
7 – Tumwater at Hockinson
6 – Mark Morris at W.F. West
5 – Woodland at R.A. Long
4 – Mark Morris at Kelso
3 – Heritage at Mark Morris
2 – Scio at Woodland
1 – Mark Morris at R.A. Long

If you can only make one 2A GSHL Football Game each week, where should you go?

Spet 3, 7:00 pm – Mark Morris at Kelso
Sept 11, 7:00 pm – Heritage at Mark Morris
Sept 17, 7:00 pm – Rainier OR at R.A. Long
Sept 24, 7:00 pm – Scio OR at Woodland
Oct 1, 7:00 pm – Tumwater at Hockinson
Oct 8, 7:00 pm – Woodland at R.A. Long*
Oct 15, 5:00 pm – Mark Morris at W.F. West
Oct 22,  8:00 pm – Woodland at Hockinson*
Oct 29, 7:00 pm – R.A. Long at Mark Morris*

Projected order of finish:

1 – Mark Morris
2 – R.A. Long
3 – Woodland
4 – Hockinson
5 – Washougal

Hockinson Hawks

Hockinson OL Chris Koenig is a preseason 2A GSHL 1st Team OL

What we know:

Hockinson is coming off a very disappointing 2009 season where they finished 2-8 and 4th in the 2A Greater St. Helens League. This season they only bring back 5 seniors from that squad and half of their team are Freshmen. The good thing is that 4 of those 5 Seniors are preseason 2A GSHL All-League selections.  Sr. DL/OL Cameron Fleming (6′2″ 210), Sr. OL/DL Chris Koenig (5′5″ 220), Sr. RB/LB Hayden Kytola 5′9″ 195) and Sr. RB/LB P.J. Owenby (6′1″ 195). Sr. QB/DB Calbe Dunn (6′ 190) will run the Hawks offense as they transition to the pistol. They hope to get their smaller players on the edges and out in space. Jr. RB Torey Dunn (6′1″ 195) will also be key to the Hawks success. With the 2A GSHL going from 4 teams who get berths into the post season down to only 2, this young Hawks team can’t make any mistakes once league play starts.

Players to watch:

• Caleb Dunn, Sr. QB/DB (6′ 190)
• Torey Dunn, Jr. RB/LB (6′1″ 195)
• Cameron Fleming, Sr. DL/OL (6′2″ 210)
• Chris Koenig, Sr. OL/DL (5′5″ 220)
• Hayden Kytola, Sr. RB/LB (5′9″ 195)
• P.J. Owenby, Sr. RB/LB (6′1″ 195)

Schedule:

Hockinson will be tested this year in their non-league games. The first 2 weeks the Hawks are on the road at a tough 1A La Center, and then at 3A Prairie. 2B Tacoma Baptist and Tumwater will come to Nautilus Field this season as well as a 2nd game with Mark Morris. Hockinson opens league play at Mark Morris in week 4 then does not go on the road in league until week 9. R.A. Long and Woodland will play at Hockinson this season.

• Sept 3, 3:00 pm at La Center
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm at Prairie
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm Tacoma Baptist
• Sep 24, 7:00 pm at Mark Morris*
• Oct 1, 7:00 pm Tumwater
• Oct 8, 7:00 pmMark Morris
• Oct 15, 7:00 pm R.A. Long*
• Oct 22, 7:00 pm Woodland*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm at Washougal*

If all goes well:

The young Hawks play 2 schools from a division below them in their first 3 games. Both are very winnable games. With only 2 post season berths up for grabs, Hockinson will need to hold at home and beat R.A. Long, or steel one at Mark Morris, as well as defeat Woodland at home. That will be a tall order for this young Hawks team. Look for Hockinson to be just on the outside of the playoffs but to gain much needed experience for 2011.

Mark Morris Monarchs

Mark Morris RB/LB Dan Feeney is a preseason 2A GSHL 1st Team RB

What we know:

Not many schools graduate their entire starting offensive line, and come back as the favorites to win the league, but that is exactly where Mark Morris is in 2010. With the return of speedy Sr. RB/DB Jeremy Wolf (5′11″ 175) the preseason 2A GSHL Offensive Player of the Year, and hard hitting FB/LB Dan Feeney (5′11″ 225), the Monarchs hope to once again run all over the rest of the 2A GSHL. Jr. QB Seth Pedersen brings a little more athletic ability to the position this season, and another group of Senior offensive linemen, Ben Nofsinger (6′ 220), Coleton Joiner (6′ 200), Jacob Dills (6′1″ 210) and Taylor VanDyke  (6′1″ 190),  appear ready to keep the Monarchs atop the league. Tough non-league games at Kelso and W.F. West as well as a home game with 4A Heritage should more than prepare Mark Morris for league play, win or lose.

Players to watch:

• Nikko Asbell, Jr. RB/DB (5′8″ 160)
• Jacob Dills, Sr. OL/DL (6′1″ 210)
• Dan Feeney, Sr. RB/LB (5′11″ 225)
• Willie Fujioka, Sr. RB/LB (5′7″ 190)
• Coleton Joiner, Sr. OL/DL (6′ 200)
• Ben Nofsinger, Sr. OL/LB (6′ 220)
• Seth Pedersen, Jr. QB/DB (5′11″ 165)
• Zach Tackwell, Sr. TE/DL (6′2″ 195)
• Dalton Thacker, Sr WR/DB (6′1″ 180)
• Taylor VanDyke, Sr. OL/DL (6′1″ 190)
• Jeremy Wolf, Sr. RB/DB (5′11″ 175)

Schedule:

Mark Morris has 2 huge non-league games to start off the 2010 football season. At rival 3A Kelso followed by a home game vs 4A Heritage. The Monarchs also have a Thursday game at River Ridge and even play Hockinson on the road in a non-league game before another tough road game at W.F. West. Hockinson and R.A. Long play at Mark Morris this season in league play, while the Monarchs will travel to Woodland and Washougal for their 2 league road games.

• Sept 3, 7:00 pm at Kelso
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm Heritage
• Sept 16, 7:00 pm at River Ridge
• Sept 24, 7:00 pm Hockinson*
• Oct 1, 7:00 pm at Woodland*
• Oct 8, 7:00 pm Hockinson
• Oct 15, 7:00 pm at W.F. West
• Oct 22, 7:00 pm at Washougal*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm R.A. Long*

If all goes well:

Mark Morris graduated a lot of talented Seniors from last season’s Quarterfinals team, however they still are the favorites to win the 2A GSHL in 2010. With non-league games vs Kelso, Heritage and W.F. West, don’t expect the Monarchs to go 9-0, but a 4-0 league record is well within reach. If they can knock off R.A. Long again in the Civil War, and get a win in the preliminary round, a 1st round home game could mean another win and back-to-back trips to the round of 8 for Mark Morris.

R.A. Long Lumberjacks

R.A. Long LB Jerry Graham is the preseason 2A GSHL Defensive Player of the Year

What we know:

R.A. Long seems to finally be in a stable place where fielding a winning team will be the norm, not an anomily. After a stretch of losing 18 of 19 games from 2005-2007, the Lumberjacks expect to again be playing for the 2A GSHL league title come week 9 in the Civil War. Sr. LB Jerry Graham (5′11″ 190) will lead the R.A. Long defense, while Sr. QB Austin Wegdahl will become the full-time starter in 2010. There is plenty of beef up front for the Jacks with Jr. OL/DL Evan Ernest (6′2″ 330), Sr. OL/DL Julio Barrera (6′1″ 290) and Sr. OL/DL Jordan Camba (5′8″ 230) all having at least some varsity experience. A handfull of talented Running Backs are on hand as well. Sr. Sergio Vazuesz (5′8″ 160) will miss a few games, but once back, will be a big part of the Jacks run game. Sr. RB Christain Hudek (5′7″ 150) will carry the load in the meantime. Also keep an eye out for Freshmen RB Jacob Yordy (5′8″ 160), the younger brother of last year’s QB William Yordy, he could see a lot of playing time this season.

Players to watch:

• Julio Barrera, Sr. OL/DL (6′1″ 290)
• Jordan Camba, Sr. OL/DL (5′8″ 230)
• Tanner Chamberlain, Sr. WR/DB (5′11″ 175)
• Julian Doane, Sr. OL/DL (5′9″ 200)
• Evan Ernest, Jr. OL/DL/K (6′2″ 330)
• Jerry Graham, Sr. TE/LB (5′11″ 190)
• Christain Hudek, Sr. RB/LB (5′7″ 150)
• Garrett Muniz, Sr. WR/DB (5′10″ 165)
• Trey Solon, Jr. WR/DB (5′8″ 175)
• Sergio Vazuesz, Sr. RB/DB (5′8″ 160)
• Tyler VonDracek, Sr. WR/DB (6′3″ 165)
• Austin Wegdahl, Sr. QB/DB (6′1″ 185)
• Cory Wynn, Jr. WR/DB (5′10″ 165)
• Jacob Yordy, Fr. RB/LB (5′8″ 160)

Schedule:

The Lumberjacks open with 1A Elma, always a tough team who spent the past 2 years in the 2A Evergreen Conference. Rainier of Oregon, an Oregon small school power, comes to Longview as does Aberdeen in week 8. The Jacks take on a 3A Hudson’s Bay team with a new coaching staff on the road in Vancouver and travel to Centralia to finish their non-league road schedule. Washougal and Woodland visit R.A. Long this year in league play, and the Jacks travel to Hockinson before closing out in the Civil War, as the road team, week 9 vs. Mark Morris.

• Sept 3, 7:00 pm Elma
• Sept 10, 5:00 pm at Hudson’s Bay
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm Rainier OR
• Sept 24, 7:00 pm at Centralia
• Oct 1, 7:00 pm Washougal*
• Oct 8, 7:00 pm Woodland*
• Oct 15, 7:00 pm at Hockinson*
• Oct 22, 7:00 pm Aberdeen
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm at Mark Morris*

If all goes well:

R.A. Long has the talent to win all of their games this season. They can afford to drop a game or two early as they get 4 non-league games to start the season. When they start league play, it will be hard for them to drop a game until the Civil War, when at that point they will have already locked up one of the top 2 spots in the 2A GSHL. If they can knock off Mark Morris and win the league title, having a possible 2 home playoff games would be welcomed this season. Don’t be surprised if you see the Lumberjacks playing football well into November this season.

Washougal Panthers

Washougal QB/DB Coltan Sullivan is a preseason 2A GSHL 1st Team K/P

What we know:

For the 2nd time in 3 years the Washougal Panthers have a new head football coach. Bob Jacobs takes over after coaching at Marshall High School in Portland for many years. Jacobs has a tough road ahead of him as the Panthers had the lowest turnout of any GSHL school this fall and of those out, most lack experience. Jr. QB Coltan Sullivan (6′2″ 185) has body needed to be a very good high school quarterback and will look to Jr. WR Austin Fuller (6′4″ 185) to establish a passing game. Coach Jacobs will run the ball a lot as he attempts to make his team as physical as he can. Sr RB Aleksander Arzhanov (5′6″ 160), Sr. RB Ryan Erdwins (6′ 180) and Jr. RB Sam O’Hara (6′ 175) will look to follow their big Jr. OL Isaac Bischoff (6′6″ 240) this season.

Players to watch:

• Aleksander Arzhanov, Sr. RB/DL (5′6″ 160)
• Isaac Bischoff, Jr. OL/DL (6′6″ 240)
• Ryan Erdwins, Sr. RB/LB (6′ 180)
• Austin Fuller, Jr. WR/DB (6′4″ 185)
• Caleb Howard, Jr. QB/DB (6′ 175)
• LoTi, Sr. RB/LB (5′8″ 215)
• Sam O’Hara, Jr. RB/DB (6′ 175)
• Coltan Sullivan, Jr. QB/DB (6′2″ 185)

Schedule:

Washougal has plenty of road non-league games this season. At 3A Hudson’s Bay and 1A Columbia, as well as a long road trip to Clatskanie of Oregon. 3A Fort Vancouver comes to town, and Crook County, another Oregon school will also come to Fishback to take on the Panthers in non-league play. Washougal plays both of their road league games before they get a home one. At R.A. Long and Woodland, before Mark Morris and Hockinson visit.

• Sept 3, 7:00 pm at Hudson’s Bay
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm at Columbia (White Salmon)
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm Fort Vancouver
• Sept 24, 7:00 pm at Clatskanie
• Oct 1. 7:00 pm at R.A. Long*
• Oct 8, 7:00 pm Crook County
• Oct 15, 7:00 pm at Woodland*
• Oct 22, 7:00 pm Mark Morris*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm Hockinson*

If all goes well:

Washougal is still in the middle of rebuilding their football program and could struggle this season. The Panthers will have 4 non-league games to work out the kinks before they start league play. However with road games at R.A. Long and Woodland before league favorite Mark Morris comes to Fishback, getting a win in league might be very hard to do prior to a week 9 home game with a young Hockinson squad.

Woodland Beavers

Woodland WR Nick Fuller is a preseason 2A GSHL 1st Team WR

What we know:

If you have been out watching the Woodland Beavers over the past 2 seasons, get used to a new looking team this fall. Gone is the big time QB Trevor Hurn and one of his top WR Shane Brady. And along with them, gone is the pass happy play book head coach Mark Greenleaf had used. This year look for Woodland to run a lot more behind an improved offensive line. Sr. Codie Stewart (6’ 245), Jr. Tabor Creagan (5’ 10” 250) and Soph. Zach Lacy (6’2” 240) will lead the group that is further along going into this season then they were at the end of last season according to Greenleaf. Jr QB Adam Shoup (5’ 9   170) will take over for Hurn, with talented Fr. QB Hunter Huddleston (5’ 9”  165) waiting on the sidelines. Standout Jr. WR Nick Fuller (6’ 4”  200) will catch just about anything thrown his way making the young quarterbacks job a lot easer. Also making things easer will be the running of Sr. RB David Lubinski (5’ 10” 205) and Soph. Cy Whitmire (5’ 7” 155), who should both get a lot of touches this season.

Players to watch:

• Tabor Creagan, Jr. OL/DL (5’ 10” 250)
• Willie Davis, Sr. WR/DB (6’  175)
• Nick Fuller, Jr. WR/DB (6’ 4”  200)
• Hunter Huddleston, Fr. QB/DB (5’ 9”  165)
• Zach Lacy, Soph. OL/DL (6’2” 240)
• David Lubinski, Sr. RB/LB (5’ 10” 205)
• Adam Shoup, Jr. QB/DB (5’ 9   170)
• Codie Stewart, Sr. OL/DL (6’ 245)
• Cy Whitmire, Soph. RB/DB (5’ 7” 155)

Schedule:

Rival Kalama comes to Woodland to open the non-league season. Ridgefield will also, this season as a non-league game after dropping out of the 2A GSHL. Scio of Oregon will also visit the Beavers. Woodland has a Thursday game at 4A Battle Ground and will close the regular season at Black Hills in non-league action. Mark Morris and Washougal will play at Woodland in league action, while the Beavers will travel to R.A. Long and Hockinson this season.

• Sept 3, 7:00 pm Kalama
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm Ridgefield
• Sept 16, 7:00 pm at Battle Ground
• Sep 24, 7:00 pm Scio
• Oct 1, 7:00 pm Mark Morris*
• Oct 8, 7:00 pm at R.A. Long*
• Oct 15, 7:00 pm Washougal*
• Oct 22, 5:00 pm at Hockinson*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm at Black Hills

If all goes well:

If Woodland gets their run game going, and Shoup can find Fuller, a lot, the Beavers could easily win 3 of their 4 non-league games before they enter league play. With no room for error, Woodland will need to win at least 1 of their first 2 league games with Mark Morris and R.A. Long. If they can manage to steel one of those, they could be looking at yet another post season game. However, winning that game and making the state playoffs might just be a bit too much to ask of this young Woodland squad.

In the 4A poll, 2 Greater St. Helens League teams are among the states top 10. Skyview came in at #6 and Union just cracks in at #10.

The Seattle Times only ranks 4A and 3A schools. No other GSHL schools were ranked by either paper.

Seattel Times Poll

Times 4A Top 10
1. Skyline (Sammamish)
2. Bothell
3. Auburn
4. Gonzaga Prep (Spokane)
5. Curtis (University Place)
6. Skyview (Vancouver)
7. Ferris (Spokane)
8. Issaquah
9. Gig Harbor
10. Union
Keep an eye on: Central Valley, Davis, Eastlake, Eisenhower, Graham-Kapowsin, Kentridge, Kentwood, Lake Stevens, Mead, Olympia, Richland, Rogers, South Kitsap.

Times 3A Top 10
1. Bellevue
2. Liberty (Renton)
3. Camas
4. O’Dea
5. Lakes (Lakewood)
6. Timberline (Lacey)
7. Enumclaw
8. Kamiakin (Kennewick)
9. Capital (Olympia)
10. Ferndale
Keep an eye on: Bonney Lake, Glacier Peak, Juanita, Kennedy Catholic, Meadowdale, Mount Si, Mount Spokane, Peninsula, Seattle Prep, University.

Read comments on each top 10 team by Mason Kelley of the Seattle Times.

Not like we are stepping out on a limb here.

Camas is ranked #2 in the Tacoma News Tribune 3A preseason poll, the Bellevue Reporter and Seattle Times have them #3, WashingtonPreps.com has them #4. AM 950 KJR out of Seattle asked Mason Kelly of the Seattle Times and Doug Pacey of the Tacoma News Tribune to rank the top 10 teams in Washington regardless of classification. Kelly had Camas #7, Pacey had them #5.

I think you get the picture. Everyone thinks Camas is that good. So, we ask the question…

Top 10 Must See 2010 3A GSHL Football Games

10 – Kelso at Columbia River
9 – Hudson’s Bay at Fort Vancouver
8 – Kelso at Mountain View
7 – Battle Ground at Prairie
6 – Camas at Timberline
5 – Columbia River at Skyview
4 – Kelso at Camas
3 – Mountain View at Evergreen
2- Columbia River at Camas
1- Skyview at Camas

If you can only make one 3A GSHL Football Game each week, where should you go?

Spet 4, 3:00 pm – Camas vs Timberline (Qwest Field Seattle)
Sept 11, 7:00 pm – Kelso at Columbia River
Sept 17, 7:00 pm – Columbia River at Camas
Sept 24, 7:00 pm – Skyview at Camas
Oct 1, 8:00 pm – Columbia River at Hudson’s Bay
Oct 8, 8:00 pm – Columbia River at Prairie
Oct 15, 5:00 pm – Kelso at Mountain View
Oct 22,  8:00 pm – Columbia River at Skyview
Oct 29, 7:00 pm – Kelso at Camas

Projected order of finish:

1 – Camas
2 – Columbia River
3 – Mountain View
4 – Kelso
5 – Prairie
6 – Fort Vancouver
7 – Hudson’s Bay

Camas Papermakers

Camas QB Logan Grindy is the preseason GSHL All Level All-Star Offensive Player of the Year

What we know:

This year’s Camas team comes into the season with higher expectations than any other Papermakers team in school history. Some have them ranked as high as #2 in the state, and others as low as #4. With the return of 3rd year starting QB Sr. Logan Grindy (6′2″ 200) the preseason GSHLFootball.com All Level All-Star offensive Player of the Year, and a stable of offensive weapons including Sr. WR Jeremy Faulkner (6′ 190), Sr. WR Miguel Salamanca  (5′7″ 175) and Sr. RB Addison Owen  (6′2″ 205). Only Sr. OL Trevor Clarkson (6′2″ 225) returns up front for the Papermakers, but standout DL Sr. Odin Coe (6′3″ 265) will slide in and play both ways this season, and Jr. Gary Stokes  (6′5″ 290) has shown over the spring that he is ready to help Camas run the ball better. Defensively Camas returns Coe on the DL, Owen at Safety along with Sr. DB Brent Hill  (6′2″ 190) and Sr. LB Ikaika Gunderson (6′1″ 210). Last year after finishing 2nd in the Greater St. Helens League 3A, Camas hosted the #5 team in the state in the preliminary round. This season Camas is the hands down favorite to win the 3A GSHL and should have a much easier road to the Tacoma Dome.

Players to watch:

• Trevor Clarkson, Sr OL (6′2″ 225)
• Odin Coe, Sr. OL/DL (6′3 265)
• Kyle Ervin, Sr. TE (6′2″ 205)
• Jeremy Faulkner, Sr. WR (6′ 190)
• Logan Grindy, Sr. QB (6′2″ 200)
• Ikaika Gunderson, Sr. LB (6′1″ 210)
• Brent Hill, Sr. DB (6′2″ 190)
• Zach Marshall, Jr. RB (5′9″ 175)
• Addison Owen, Sr. RB/DB (6′2″ 205)
• Miguel Salamanca, Sr. WR (5′7″ 175)
• Gary Stokes, Jr. OL (6′5″ 290)
• Jonathan Warner, Jr WR (6′1″ 190)

Schedule:

Camas opens the season up at Qwest Field in the Emerald City Kickoff Classic vs Timberline. They also host 4A Skyview and 4A Heritage in non-league match ups. In league play Camas will travel to play Mountain View,  Prairie and Fort Vancouver, while they will host Columbia River, Hudson’s Bay and Kelso. The Columbia River vs Camas football game will be the first event in the new Doc Harris Stadium.

• Sept 4, 3:00 pm vs Timberline (Qwest Field)
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm at Mountain View*
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm Columbia River*
• Sep 24, 7:00 pm Skyview
• Oct 1, 7:00 pm at Prairie*
• Oct 8, 7:00 pm Hudson’s Bay*
• Oct 15, 7:00 pm Heritage
• Oct 22, 5:00 pm at Fort Vancouver*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm Kelso*

If all goes well:

Coach Eagle said the Papermakers goal is to win a league championship and to win a state playoff game, something that has never happened at Camas. This team however is talented enough to do much more than that. Although they have tough non-league games with Timberline, Skyview and Heritage, the biggest thing standing in the way of an undefeated regular season is a week 4 game with Skyview. However that game is at Doc Harris Stadium. Weather they go 9-0 or not, they should win the 3A GSHL and have a few home games to start the playoffs. Don’t be surprised if you see Camas playing in the WIAA 3A state championship game this season.

Columbia River Chieftains

Columbia River DB Jeremy Newton is a preseason 3A GSHL 1st Team DB

What we know:

Columbia River will have a lot of new faces this football season. 11 new starters on offense will look to lead the Chieftains back to the state playoffs. Columbia River High School had a student population low enough for the Chieftains to drop to 2A this season, however athletic participation at River is extremity high. A Senior class led by OL/DL Justin Jenks  (6′4″ 210), Terrence Joshua  (6′ 205), Brad Johnston  (6′1″ 200) and Jeremy Newton, Sr. DB (5′6″ 150) will look to keep the Chieftains “Tradition of Excellence” alive and get back to the playoffs for the 13th time in the last 14 seasons. The future looks bright at Columbia River as their Sophomore class is loaded with athletes who already possess plenty of football skills.

Players to watch:

• Kevin Cotter, Sr. WR/DB (6′ 195)
• Tylor Jaskierny, Sr. OL/DL (6′ 210)
• Justin Jenks, Sr. OL/DL (6′4″ 210)
• Brad Johnston, Sr. OL/DL (6′1″ 200)
• Terrence Joshua, Sr. RB/LB (6′ 205)
• Chaeli Leiwalo, Sr. QB/DB (5′7″ 160)
• Jeremy Newton, Sr. DB (5′6″ 150)
• Zach Pusc, Sr. OL/DL (6′1″ 210)
• Justin Rinta, Jr. QB/DB (5′10″ 180)
• Chris Yingling, Sr. OL/DL (6′2″ 240)

Schedule:

Columbia River plays 2 road non-league games in 2010. Opening at 4A Battle Ground, then a week 8 game at rival Skyview. The Chieftains lone home non-league is vs Rainier of Oregon. It wont be long before Columbia River starts league play, as Kelso visits week 2. Along with the Hilanders, Fort Vancouver and Mountain View will play at Chieftain Stadium. River will travel to Camas, Hudson’s Bay and Prairie to round out their league schedule.

• Sept 3, 7:00 pm at Battle Ground
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm Kelso*
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm at Camas*
• Sept 24, 7:00 pm Rainier OR
• Oct 1, 8:00 pm at Hudson’s Bay*
• Oct 8, 7:00 pm at Prairie*
• Oct 15, 7:00 pm Fort Vancouver*
• Oct 22, 8:00 pm at Skyview
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm Mountain View*

If all goes well:

The Chieftains are young but have the talent to compete for a playoff spot. If they can at least get a split of their first 2 league games and be 1-1 heading into week 5, by then a young Columbia River team could become an experienced team and jump up into the top 3 of the 3A GSHL. I would not expect much out of them in the post season, but we also did not expect much in 2009.

Fort Vancouver Trappers

Fort Vancouver OL Patrick Crawford is a preseason 3A GSHL 1st Team OL

What we know:

Fort Vancouver has managed to navigate spring practice and fall camp without suffering any major injuries for the first time in recent memory. That along with plenty of playing experience has the Trappers head coach Cal Szueber very excited about the 2010 season. Senior offensive linemen Patrick Crawford (6′1″ 240), Vutha Chen (5′11″ 230) and Stockton Pendergast  (6′ 215) are all entering their 3rd season as staring along the Trappers front. Jr. OL Flynn Crawford  (5′10″ 215) is also a 3rd year starter. Sr. QB Richard Vansiclen  (6′1″ 195) takes over the helm of Fort’s double wing offense, an offense Szueber says will see a lot more passing this season. Jr. running backs Robert Bain  (5′9″ 185) and Jordan Vela (5′8″ 160) along with newcomer Abdul Conteh  (5′8″ 170) hope to keep opposing offensives on the sidelines this season. 

Players to watch:

• Robert Bain, Jr. RB/LB (5′9″ 185)
• Robbie Cayce, Sr. WR/DE (5′10″ 195)
• Vutha Chen, Sr. OL/DL (5′11″ 230)
• Abdul Conteh, Jr. RB/DB (5′8″ 170)
• Flynn Crawford, Jr. OL/DL (5′10″ 215)
• Patrick Crawford, Sr. OL/DL (6′1″ 240)
• Bryan Eyo, Sr. RB/DL (5′10″ 195)
• Jose Johnson, Sr. RB/DB (5′7″ 190)
• Stockton Pendergast, Sr. OL/LB (6′ 215)
• Manny Posas-Vasquez, Soph. OL/LB (5′11″ 175)
• Richard Vansiclen, Sr. QB/DB (6′1″ 195)
• Isaac Rodriguez, Sr. OL/DL (5′10″ 220)
• Taylor Vanheck, Soph. RB/DB (5′9″ 155)
• Jordan Vela, Jr. RB/DB (5′8″ 160)

Schedule:

The Trappers have a very manageable non-league schedule with road games at 1A Ridgefield and 2A Washougal and a home game with a young 4A Battle Ground squad. They also get all 3 non-league games before they open league play at home vs Prairie. Mountain  View and Camas also come to Kiggins Bowl. The Trappers travel to Kelso and Columbia River before a week 9 game at Kiggins Bowl, as the road team, with rival Hudson’s Bay.

• Sept 3, 7:00 pm at Reidgfield
• Sept 10, 8:00 pm Battle Ground
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm at Washougal
• Sept 24, 7:00 pm Prairie*
• Oct 1, 7:00 pm at Kelso*
• Oct 8, 87:00 pm Mountain View*
• Oct 15, 7:00 pm at Columbia River*
• Oct 22, 5:00 pm Camas*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm at Hudson’s Bay*

If all goes well:

With an experienced line and baring any injuries the Trappers could take all 3 non-league games and if still healthy possibly win 4 of their 6 league games. It has been 12 years since Fort Vancouver had a winning season, if they stay healthy, this could be the year they do it again.

Kelso Hilnaders

Kelso RB/LB Jared O'Neil is a preseason GSHL All Level All-Star 1st Team LB

What we know:

The Hilanders surprised a lot of people last season finishing 6-3 and going 3-2 in the 4A Greater St. Helens League. In 2008 Kelso went 3-6 and did not win a league game, going 0-5, in their first year back up at the 4A level. Well the Hilanders are back down in the 3A GSHL and will contend for a playoff spot. However, several big pieces  from last season’s team are gone, most notably RB Lane Sari and his 26 TDs. Sr. QB Makaio Mobbs (5′8″ 180) will take over the Hilanders offense. Mobbs, the most athletic QB Kelso has had in years could allow the Hilanders  to open up their playbook a bit more this season. Sr. RB/LB Jared O’Neil  (6′ 185) will make teams honor the dive all season as well as force teams to run outside. Where Sr. DE Gage Townsend (6′4″ 230) will be waiting. Seniors Cedrique Chaney (6′ 185) and Ben Warthen  (6′1″ 190) will also be key to the Hilanders passing game and pass defense.

Players to watch:

• Cedrique Chaney, Sr. WR/DB (6′ 185)
• Josh Custer, Sr. OL/LB (5′11″ 220)
• Eric McDaniel, Sr. OL/DL (5′11″ 225)
• Riley Miller, Sr. RB/DB (5′4″ 140)
• Slate Miller, Jr. RB/DB (5′10″ 180)
• Makaio Mobbs, Sr. QB/DB (5′8″ 180)
• Jared O’Neil, Sr. RB/LB (6′ 185)
• Gage Townsend, Sr. TE/DE (6′4″ 230)
• Ben Warthen, Sr. WR/FS (6′1″ 190)

Schedule:

The Hilanders have a rough non-league schedule that is disbursed throughout their season. A week 1 home game with rival 2A Mark Morris will give Kelso a big game right out of the gate. Road games at 4A Union and 4A Evergreen comprise the rest of their non-league schedule. Kelso opens league play week 2 at Columbia River and also travels to Mountain View before a week 9 road game at Camas. Hudson’s Bay, Fort Vancouver and Prairie all come to Schroeder Field and face the Hilanders in 2010.

• Sept 3, 7:00 pm Mark Morris
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm at Columbia River*
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm Hudson’s Bay*
• Sept 24, 5:00 pm at Union
• Oct 1. 7:00 pm Fort Vancouver*
• Oct 8, 5:00 pm at Evergreen
• Oct 15, 7:00 pm at Mountain View*
• Oct 22, 7:00 pm Prairie*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm at Camas*

If all goes well:

Kelso has to replace some key players from their 2009 team that just missed the post season. Week 1 vs a young Mark Morris team is winnable. Week 2 at Columbia River will be a big test as 2 young teams who have plans to play past week 9 both need this win. Union and Evergreen will both be tough games, but thankfully they are non-league. The Hilanders have the players to be 5-0 in league heading into week 9 at Camas where win or lose they would be in the playoffs. If they get a home game week 10 they could win, if they make the playoffs and have to travel, it could be a short run.

Hudson’s Bay Eagles

Hudson's Bay QB Travis Roberts is fighting for the Eagles starting spot

What we know:

Eagles 1st year head football coach Will Ephraim has the biggest turn out in years as the excitement around Hudson’s Bay football continues to grow. With plenty of athletic bodies to go around, Ephraim plans on using a two platoon system to get more of his players playing time. Ephraim feels if he can get his players to play as one unit and trust the players around them to do their job, that his team can be successful. The big thing this season for the Eagles is to not fold as soon as things go bad. If the Eagles can weather an early loss or two, and not give in if they get down 2 touchdowns early, Ephraim thinks his players can surprise some people this season. Sr. WR/DB Ingo Arrozal (5′10″ 170) will be one of the few Eagles playing both ways this fall. Sr. QB Travis Roberts  (6′3″ 190) saw playing time in 2009 as well did Sr. RB Musa Bah  (5′11″ 170) and Sr. RB Cody Torgrimson (5′10″ 165)

Players to watch:

• Ingo Arrozal, Sr. WR/DB (5′10″ 170)
• Musa Bah, Sr. RB/DB (5′11″ 170)
• Joe Deering, Sr. OL/DL (6′2″ 225)
• Devantae Elliott, Sr. WR/DB (5′4″ 150)
• P.J. Mikaele, Sr. WR/LB (5′9″ 195)
• Will Porter, Jr. QB/DB (5′11″ 175)
• Travis Roberts, Sr. QB (6′3″ 190)
• Jahmile Sipaia, Jr. RB/LB (6′ 200)
• Cody Torgrimson, Sr. RB (5′10″ 165)
• Matt Wheeler, Sr. OL/DL (5′11″ 270)

Schedule:

Hudson’s Bay gets to open the season at home vs a young 2A Washougal squad who also has a new head coach. 2A R.A. Long, last years 2A GSHL runner-up also plays at Kiggins. The Eagles only road non-league game is at a young 4A Battle Ground. Bay will travel to Kelso, Camas and Mountain View in league play, and host Columbia River, Prairie and rival Fort Vancouver to wrap up their league schedule.

• Sept 3, 7:00 pm Washougal
• Sept 10, 5:00 pm R.A. Long
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm at Kelso*
• Sep 24, 7:00 pm at Battle Ground
• Oct 1, 8:00 pm Columbia River*
• Oct 8, 7:00 pm at Camas*
• Oct 15, 5:00 pm Prairie*
• Oct 22, 5:00 pm at Mountain View*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm at Fort Vancouver*

If all goes well:

New Hudson’s Bay head coach Will Ephraim has a group of players who have the talent to football at the 3A level. He just will need to get them to play as 1, and learn to compete throughout the entire game. All 3 non-league games are winnable if they get a few breaks. If the Eagles can keep games close with Kelso, Columbia River and Camas, and maybe even steel one of those, they could make a late run down the stretch and earn their first winning record since 2002.

Mountain View Thunder

Mountain View RB P.J. Jones is a preseason 3A GSHL 1st Team RB

What we know:

New to the 3A Greater St. Helens League, Mountain View should challenge for a post season berth in 2010.  Head coach Adam Mathieson is now in his 3rd season at Mountain View and said he finally has his system fully installed. Rumor all during spring was that Mountain View was changing to a wing-t offense, however I have not seen that at any of the practices I have been to over the off season. Sr. RB P.J. Jones (5′10″ 180) is back to lead the Thunder running game. Sr. QB Ryan Hansen  (6′1″ 180) will be the 3rd starting QB in 3 years at Mountain View. Hansen has speedy receivers to throw to in Seniors Jeff Carmondy  (5′8″ 165), Dean Koba  (6′ 165) and Josh Parker  (6′ 170) as well as a big Sr. TE Ryan Johnson (6′3″ 235) who split time last season with current Eastern Washington TE Zach Chapman. 4 Seniors anchor the offensive line, Drew Bryant  (6′3″ 220), Dan McCoy  (5′11″ 195), Jeremy Schneider  (5′10″ 195) and Josh Stolz (6′ 220). Look for most of these Seniors to play both ways this season.

Players to watch:

• Drew Bryant, Sr. OL/DL (6′3″ 220)
• Jeff Carmondy, Sr. WR/DB (5′8″ 165)
• Ryan Hansen, Sr. QB/DB (6′1″ 180)
• Ryan Johnson, Jr. TE/DL (6′3″ 235)
• P.J. Jones, Sr. RB/DB (5′10″ 180)
• Dean Koba, Sr. WR/DB (6′ 165)
• Dan McCoy, Sr. OL/DL (5′11″ 195)
• Josh Parker, Sr. WR/DB (6′ 170)
• Dylan Petersen, Sr. RB/LB (6′1″ 195)
• Jeremy Schneider, Sr. OL/DL (5′10″ 195)
• Josh Stolz, Jr. OL/DL (6′ 220)

Schedule:

Mountain View will open with rival Evergreen for the first time since 1990 as the Thunder have dropped out of 4A for the first time in school history. They also play the other 2 Evergreen School District teams in non-league play, Union and Heritage. Camas comes to McKenzie week 2 in their league opener. Kelso and Hudson’s Bay also play at Mountain View. The Thunder will travel to Prairie, Fort Vancouver and Columbia River in their 3 road league games.

• Sept 34, 8:00 pm at Evergreen
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm Camas*
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm at Prairie*
• Sep 24, 8:00 pm at Heritage
• Oct 1, 8:00 pm Union
• Oct 8, 7:00 pm at Fort Vancouver
• Oct 15, 5:00 pm Kelso*
• Oct 22, 5:00 pm Hudson’s Bay*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm at Columbia River*

If all goes well:

Mountain View is a Senior heavy team that lacks a lot of experience. They have a rough first 5 weeks as they face 4 of the 5 teams ranked in the GSHL preseason power ranking, Evergreen, Camas, Heritage and Union. Fortunately for the Thunder, 3 of those games are non-league. If the Thunder can come out 1-1 in league play heading into week 6 they will be in a good position to take a post season spot for the first time since 2006.

Prairie Falcons

Prairie WR Ansel Cecil is a preseason 3A GSHL 1st Team WR

What we know:

The Prairie Falcnos are a mix of youth and experience. On offense they have both. Jr. QB Colin Seitz (6′ 190) and Soph. QB Coleman Weisenborn (5′11″ 190) both played varsity football in 2009 and are good enough to start for just about any Greater St. Helens League football team this fall. Coach Hyde believes his group of WR’s are probably the best unit as a whole in all of the GSHL. Jr. WR Ansel Cecil (5′10″ 170) is a 3A GSHL preseason 1st Team WR. When you also have Jr. WR Jesse Zalk (5′8″ 160), Jr. WR Tyler Vea (5′9″ 150), Jr. WR Jake Intermill  (5′10″ 165) and Sr. WR Jode DeKlerk (6′1″ 210), there are plenty of speedy guys running around ready to make a big play. The big question on offense for the Falcons will be can they establish a running game. Sr. RB Jake Ripley (5′9″ 150) isnt the biggest back in the league, but can move once in the open field. Soph. RB Zach Poulin (6′2″ 220) should add some power to the Falcons offense. A trio of Sr. offensive linemen will attempt to get that run game going. Dylan Axtell  (5′9″ 200), Garrett Prestwich (5′ 190) and Keegan Smith (5′10″ 200) are not the biggest, but all bring some experience. On defense is where the Falcons youth really shows.  9 of the Falcons defensive starters are Juniors or Sophomores. They defiantly have the offense to put up points, the key will be the ability to control the clock, keep the other team out of the end zone.

Players to watch:

• Dylan Axtell, Sr. OL/DL (5′9″ 200)
• Ansel Cecil, Jr. WR/DB (5′10″ 170)
• Jode DeKlerk, Sr. WR/DB (6′1″ 210)
• Jake Intermill, Jr. WR/DB (5′10″ 165)
• Garrett Prestwich, Sr. OL/LB (5′ 190)
• Jake Ripley, Sr. RB/LB (5′9″ 150)
• Colin Seitz, Jr. QB (6′ 190)
• Keegan Smith, Sr. OL/DL (5′10″ 200)
• Tyler Vea, Jr. WR/DB (5′9″ 150)
• Coleman Weisenborn, Soph. QB (5′11″ 190)
• Jesse Zalk, Jr. WR/DB (5′8″ 160)

Schedule:

The Falcons get a pair of 2A schools to open the season in non-league play. 2A Lakewood will host Prairie while 2A Hockinson travels to District Stadium. Prairie’s final non-league game comes in week 9 as they host rival 4A Battle Ground. Mountain View, Camas and Columbia River, all playoff contenders travel to District Stadium to face the falcons in league play. Prairie will hit the road vs Fort Vancouver, Hudson’s Bay and Kelso for their road league schedule.

• Sept 3, 6:00 pm at Lakewood
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm Hockinson
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm Mountain View*
• Sep 24, 7:00 pm at Fort Vancouver*
• Oct 1, 7:00 pm Camas*
• Oct 8, 7:00 pm Columbia River*
• Oct 15, 5:00 pm at Hudson’s Bay*
• Oct 22, 7:00 pm at Kelso*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm Battle Ground

If all goes well:

Prairie has the skill guys in the passing game to put up points in just about any game. The key to the Falcons 2010 season will be the ability to establish the run and keep pressure off of their quarterback. All 3 non-league games are winnable for the Falcons, and if that running game does come along, don’t be surprised to see Prairie knock off one of the 3A big boys and take the final playoff spot this season, something that has not happened since 1997.

There will be a Booster Bus going to the game and round-trip tickets cost $25, which includes a seat, snacks and games on the bus (football game tickets are separate).  Departure time is 1:00 PM.  We will also have a raffle for prizes.  Families are welcome, but minors need to be accompanied by an adult.  For tickets or information please contact Diane Finnie at dlfinnie57@gmail.com.

Camas head football coach Jon Eagle does not think his Papermakers are a #2 team... yet.

The Tacoma News Tribune released their preseason top 10 rankings for all 6 levels of Washington High School football this week.

4 Greater St. Helens League football teams found themselves among the states elite.

Camas received the highest ranking of the 4, as the Papermakers came in at #2 in the 3A poll right behind 2x defending 3A champions Bellevue.

“It’s exciting to see that we’re ranked highly, but rankings don’t mean much in the preseason,” said Camas QB Logan Grindy. “I know we have the potential to do great things, we just need to go out and prove it. There is no better way of doing that then going out and getting a win this weekend at Qwest.”

Papermakers defensive lineman Odin Coe agrees with Grindy.

“All I really have to say is it is a preseason ranking,” he said. “It is neat, but doesn’t really mean anything. We have a lot of work we need to do to be the #2 team, but it’s not out of reach.”

Camas will take on Timberline at 3:30 Saturday at Qwest Field as part of the Emerald City Kickoff Classic. The Blazers are ranked #10 in the 3A poll.

Papermakes head coach Jon Eagle is not so quick to put his squad that high on the poll just yet.

“I’ve seen 2’s practice,” he said. “We are not a 2 right now.”

In the 4A poll, 2 GSHL schools are tanked in the top 10. Skyview, the 2x defending 4A GSHL Champions are at #6, and Union, the 2x defending 3A GSHL Champions are ranked #8.

Like Bellevue in the 3A, Skyline is ranked #1 in the 4A having won 3 state title in a row.

“I am just honored the we are being considered as a such a good team this year,” said Ellis Henderson, a Sr. WR/DB at Skyview. “I was actually more excited to see both Union, as a 4A team, and Camas on there with us! It’s nice to finally see this area get some well deserved recognition!”

Seeing Union ranked #8 is a bit of a surprise, but the Titans are ready to show how good they can be.

“I think it’s great that at least someone thinks we have some potential,” said Zak Browning, a Sr. RB/LB at Union “But nothing is proven until we go out on the field and show the state that we can play.”

Union will also play in the Emerald City Kickoff Classic Saturday, as they take on Bellevue at 5:30.

In the 2A poll, last seasons 2A GSHL Champs Mark Morris just cracked the list at #10.

Tacoma News Tribune’s 2010 High School Football Preseason State Rankings

CLASS 4A
1. Skyline
2. Auburn
3. Curtis
4. Gonzaga Prep
5. Bothell
6. Skyview
7. Central Valley
8. Union
9. Olympia
10. Richland

CLASS 3A
1. Bellevue
2. Camas
3. Liberty
4. Capital
5. Lakes
6. Juanita
7. O’Dea
8. Kamiakin
9. Mount Spokane
10. Timberline

CLASS 2A
1. Archbishop Murphy
2. Clarkston
3. Lynden
4. Prosser
5. Spokane West Valley
6. Tumwater
7. Othello
8. Ellensburg
9. Burlington-Edison
10. Mark Morris

See the complete rankings of all levels at the Tacoma News Tribune.

Fort Vancouver Trapper defenders wait for the Washougal Panthers to break their huddle Monday night at Kiggins Bowl for the Fort Vancouver Jamboree

Monday afternoon at Kiggins Bowl in Vancouver the Fort Vancouver Trappers hosted a jamboree with 3 other local high school programs.

Mountain View, Washougal and 1A La Center joined the Trappers in the 4 team scrimmage. Not only varsity, but also Junior Varsity, and Freshmen got to play against another team Monday.

The varsity portion was your standard Washington jamboree, where each team gets 10 plays on offense playing on 1/2 of the field. Mountain View played La Center first while Washougal and Fort Vancouver went at it, then the Thunder took on Washougal, while Fort Vancouver played La Center.

All of the teams looked good at times as well as rusty at times. Which is the main reason for the jamboree, to work out mistakes on a Monday night, and not this Friday.

“We need to get better up front on the offensive line,” said Washougal head coach Bob Jacobs. “We need to fix what’s broken. A lot of these guys this is their first combat. You know, your head spins a little, guys start flying around.”

Mountain View head coach Adam Mathieson also sees the jamboree as a great way to see how his players preform against another team.

“It’s good just to gets some live reps,” he said. “The really what this is, is an opportunity for a young kid to come out in live action, and go, ‘what does he do against an opponent?’ Sometimes in practice you can’t always measure that, and we learned some things. I think it was a productive night for us.”

Fort Vancouver did show a lot more passing out of the double-wing Monday night. Trapper head coach Cal Szueber is excited about their season, and thinks the experience for his players is important.

“We got some experience in today playing against some other teams today,” he said. “We got an experienced line, and they were pretty strong today so were excited about it. We stayed healthy too, so we excited coming into the first game.”

Mountain View opens Friday night at 8:00 pm vs Evergreen at McKenzie Stadium. Fort Vancouver is at Ridgefield at 7:00 pm. Washougal is right back at Kiggins Bowl Friday night at 7:00 taking on Hudson’s Bay.

Top 10 Must See 2010 4A GSHL Football Games

10 – Heritage at Skyview
9 – Enumclaw at Union
8 – Heritage at Grant
7 – Battle Ground at Prairie
6 – Union at Evergreen
5 – Evergreen at Heritage
4 – Mountain View at Evergreen
3 – Union at Bellevue
2- Skyview at Union
1-  Skyview at Camas

If you can only make one 4A GSHL Football Game each week, where should you go?

Spet 4, 5:30 pm – Union vs Belleveue (Qwest Field Seattle)
Sept 11, 7:00 pm – Coeur d’Alane at Skyview
Sept 17, 7:00 pm – Heritage at Skyview
Sept 24, 7:00 pm – Skyview at Camas
Oct 1, 5:00 pm – Battle Ground at Evergreen
Oct 8, 8:00 pm – Union at Heritage
Oct 15, 8:00 pm Evergreen at Skyview
Oct 22,  8:00 pm Union at Evergreen
Oct 29, 8:00 pm Skyview at Union

Projected order of finish:

1 – Skyview
2 – Union
3 – Evergreen
4 – Heritage
5 – Battle Ground

Battle Ground Tigers

Battle Ground WR/DB Tyler Bergeron is a preseason 4A GSHL All-League 1st Team DB

What we know:

The Battle Ground Tigers have a new football coach in former assistant Larry Peck. Peck takes over a program which has not had a winning season since 2003. A large part of that has been their poor showing in league play. Battle Ground is 6-26 in the 4A Greater St. Helens League over the past 6 seasons, and have only won 2 league games in the last 4. Coach Peck does have the only 4A GSHL returning starting QB in Senior Chris Paul (6′ 185). Junior WR/DB Tyler Bergeron (6′ 165) was the was voted the camp MVP earlier this month at the Air Assault Football Camp. Peck is going to a more traditional offense and will need his offensive line to step up if the Tigers want to compete for a playoff spot. Senior’s Miguel Simon (5′9″ 205), Daniel Wagner (6′ 205), Justin Neil (6′3″ 245) and Ryan Leathers (5′10″ 230) will all help on both offense and defense. Coach Peck told his players they are football players and they need to know how to play multiple positions on both sides of the ball.

Players to watch:

• Juan Arellano, Jr. WR/DB (5′10″ 175)
• Tyler Bergeron, Sr. WR/DB (6′ 165)
• Jake Blackman, Jr. TE/DL (6′3″ 195)
• Nohi Brede, Sr. RB/DB (6′1″ 180)
• Miguel Donley, Sr. RB/LB (5′9″ 170)
• Ryan Leathers, Sr. OL/DL (5′10″ 230)
• Justin Neil, Sr. OL/DL (6′3″ 245)
• Chris Paul, Sr. QB (6′ 185)
• Miguel Simon, Sr. OL/DL (5′9″ 205)
• Bo Smith, Sr. RB/LB (5′7″ 185)
• Daniel Wagner, Sr. OL/DL (6′ 205)

Schedule:

The Tigers non-league schedule sees the Tigers with only 1 road game in the first month of the season. 3A Columbia River for will be the Tigers first game for a third straight season. After the home game with the Chieftains, Battle Ground is at 3A Fort Vancouver before home games vs 2A Woodland and 3A Hudson’s Bay. In league play Battle Ground travels to McKenzie Stadium twice to play Evergreen and Union, while Skyview and Heritage head out to District Stadium. Week 9 sees non-league game vs rival 3A Prairie.

• Sept 3, 7:00 pm Columbia River
• Sept 10, 8:00 pm at Fort Vancouver
• Sept 16, 7:00 pm Woodland
• Sep 24, 7:00 pm Hudson’s Bay
• Oct 1, 5:00 pm at Evergreen*
• Oct 7, 7:00 pm Skyview*
• Oct 15, 8:00 pm at Union*
• Oct 22, 7:00 pm Heritage*
• Oct 29, 7:00 pm at Prairie

If all goes well:

Coach Peck said their goal this season is to win a league game. With 4 winnable non-league games before league play starts on October 1st, the young Tigers should be completive throughout the rest of the league season. All 4 of the Tigers league games will be challenges for Battle Ground to come out on top. It would not surprise me if they do get a win or two in league play, but a post season berth may be a stretch this season.

Evergreen Plainsmen

Evergreen OL/DL Jason Tiatia is a preseason GSHL All Level All-Star 1st Team OL

What we know:

After suffering their first losing season since 1997, the Evergreen Plainsmen, led by 2nd year coach Charles Anthony, are ready to bounce back and become the Evergreen of old. The Plainsmen return some big bodies on the offensive line in Senior Jayson Tiatia (6′1″ 240), Sr. Kelly Sucksdorf (6′2″ 265) and Sr. Jacob Maki (6′3″ 235). A slew of running backs also return. Sr. RB Chase Lawrence (5′10″ 180), who led the league in rushing for the first 4 weeks of 2009, is back after a season ending knee injury cut last season short. Sr. RB Quwontae Wallace (5′7″ 155) and Sr. RB Richie Townsend (5′10″ 170) are also back in the Plainsman’s double wing offense. Sr. QB Beni Corbic (5′7″ 160) takes over for 2 year starter Marvin Thomas. Defensively Sr. LB Korbin Kuhn (5′9″ 175) and Sr. DB Bryan Shirts (5′10″ 190) along with Tiatia, Lawrence, Wallace and Townsend hope to improve on the 24.1 ppg allowed in 2009.

Players to watch:

• Beni Corbic, Sr. QB/DB (5′7″ 160)
• Jacob Gosselin, Sr. TE/LB (5′10″ 180)
• Korbin Kuhn, Sr. RB/LB (5′9″ 175)
• Chase Lawrence, Sr. RB/DB (5′10″ 180)
• Nick Mace, Jr. RB/DB (5′6″ 170)
• Jacob Maki, Sr. OL/DL (6′3″ 235)
• Bryan Shirts, Sr. RB/DB (5′10″ 190)
• Kelly Suksdorg, Sr. OL (6′2″ 265)
• Jafar Tiatia, Jr. OL/DL (5′11″ 315)
• Jayson Tiatia, SR OL/DL (6′1″ 240)
• Richie Townsend, Sr. RB/DB (5′10″ 170)
• Quwontae Wallace, Sr. RB/DB (5′7″ 155)

Schedule:

Evergreen plays one of the toughest non-league schedules of any Greater St Helens League team this season. Home games with rival 3A Mountain View, Big 9/CBBN 4A favorite Richland, and 3A Kelso along with road games at 3A Lakes and 4A Eisenhower. The Plainsmen play Battle Ground, Union, and Heritage at McKenzie in league play and only have Skyview away from their home stadium. They are the road them vs Heritage in week 9.

• Sept 3, 8:00 pm Mountain View
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm at Lakes
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm Richland
• Sept 24, 7:00 pm at Eisenhower
• Oct 1, 5:00 pm Battle Ground*
• Oct 8, 5:00 pm Kelso
• Oct 15, 8:00 pm at Skyview*
• Oct 22, 8:00 pm Union*
• Oct 29, 5:00 pm at Heritage*

If all goes well:

Evergreen could shock some people this season with a much improved running attack. Don’t be surprised if the Plainsmen take 4 of their 5 non-league games, and go 3-1 in league. A 7-2 Plainsmen team could give another team some trouble in the preliminary round, however with it most likely being a road game don’t expect a deep playoff run. That is if they even make it out of the tough 4A Greater St. Helens League.

Heritage Timberwolves

Heritage OL Nolan LaValley is a preseason GSHL All Level All-Star 1st Team OL

What we know:

The Heritage Timberwolves are just fine coming into the 2010 season as a sleeper and not the favorite. Last season the Timberwolves were the league favorite behind QB Garrett Grayson and a slew of returning skill players. This season Heritage plans to hang their hat on an experienced offensive line which includes Sr. Nolan LaValley (6′3″ 255), Sr. Casey Hoodenpyle  (5′11″ 235), Sr. Bryce Sanders Sr. (6′ 285) and Tyrell Quigley (5′11″ 260). A pair of Jr. QB’s are still fighting for the starting spot, Jake Dahlberg (6′1″ 190) and Riley O’Dell  (5′11″ 170), both of which are well qualified to lead a more balanced Timberwolves attack. Sr. WR Ben Lyons (6′ 185) and Sr. TE Andy Bemis  (6′4″ 240) will give either QB options down the field. A pair of burner scat backs in Soph. Carnell Vernon (5′4″ 170) and Jr. transfer Rajheem Carrie (5′9″ 160) plan on finding even the smallest hole behind their big offensive line and making you catch them from behind, something very few people will be able to do. Gone are the days of the two platoon system at Heritage. Expect the same cast of players to shine on defense as well Heritage no longer hopes to simply out score opponents.

Players to watch:

• Andy Bemis, Sr. TE/DL (6′4″ 240)
• Rajheem Carrie, Jr. RB/DB (5′9″ 160)
• Jake Dahlberg, Jr. QB/DB (6′1″ 190)
• Casey Hoodenpyle, Sr. OL (5′11″ 235)
• Nolan LaValley, Sr. OL (6′3″ 255)
• Ben Lyons, Sr. WR/DB (6′ 185)
• Riley O’Dell, Jr. QB/DB (5′11″ 170)
• Bryce Sanders, Sr. OL/DL (6′ 285)
• Carnell Vernon, Soph. RB/DB (5′4″ 170)
• Tyrell Quigley, Sr. OL/DL (5′11″ 260)

Schedule:

Heritage also has one of the toughest non-league schedules of all the Greater. St. Helens League teams in 2010. A week 1 game vs 4A Issaquah, who is ranked in the top 10, will test Heritage right out of the gate. Mountain View also plays Heritage at McKenzie Stadium. Road games at 2A Mark Morris, the defending 2A GSHL Champions, Grant of Portland, and 3A Camas won’t make life any easier for Heritage. In league play, Heritage travels to Battle Ground and to the defending 4A GSHL Champions Skyview while they host both Union and Evergreen.

• Sept 3, 5:00 pm Issaquah
• Sept 10, 7:00 pm at Mark Morris
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm at Skyview*
• Sept 24, 8:00 pm Mountain View
• Oct 1, 6:00 pm at Grant OR
• Oct 8, 8:00 pm Union*
• Oct 15, 7:00 pm at Camas
• Oct 22, 7:00 pm at Battle Ground*
• Oct 29, 5:00 pm Evergreen*

If all goes well:

If the Timberwolves do indeed become a more balanced offense, and a can keep their games low scoring, a 3-2 non-league record is not out of reach. In league play Heritage could also surprise fans and and take 3 of their 4 4A Greater St. Helens League match ups landing them at 6-3 and in the post season for the 4th year in a row. Becoming the first Heritage team to win a post season game may be a stretch, but I would not rule it out completely.

Skyview Storm

Skyview WR/DB Ellis Henderson is the preseason GSHL All Level All-Star Defensive Player of the Year

What we know:

Skyview has to replace some very talented football players from last season’s Semifinal team. Watching the Storm practice this spring and early fall, they look as though they have the players to do just that. Sr. WR/DB Ellis Henderson (6′ 180) is easily the best pure athlete in the Greater St. Helens League and will rarely leave the field as he not only plays WR and DB, but also returns punts and kicks as well as holds for PAT’s and FG’s. Fellow Sr. WR Karl Graves (6′3″ 180) will give first year starting Sr. QB Kody Watts (6′2″ 190) 2 #1 WR to pass to. Sr. OL/DL Cody Fields (6′2″ 240) and Sr. OL/LB Tom Zink are the only 2 returning offensive lineman for the Storm, however Jr. RB/DB Parker Henry (6′ 190) is back from a broken color bone which ended his season in week 6 of last season, when he was leading the league in rushing. On Defense the Storm will need to replace most of their defensive line and linebackers, and 2 lights out safeties.  Henderson, Henry, Fields, and Zink as well as Sr. DL Nick Orsi (6′ 190) and Jr. DB Mo Morrison (5′11″ 190) to set an example for the younger Storm defenders.

Players to watch:

• Cody Fields, Sr. OL/DL (6′2 240)
• Karl Graves, Sr. WR (6′3″ 180)
• Ellis Henderson, Sr. WR/DB (6′ 180)
• Parker Henry, Jr. RB/DB (6′ 190)
• Kieran McDonagh, Jr. QB/TE (6′1″ 215)
• Mo Morrison, Jr. WR/DB (5′11″ 190)
• Nick Orsi, Sr. DL (6′ 190)
• Nick Phillips, Sr. K/P (5′11″ 180)
• Nolan Stitzel, Sr OL/DL (6′1″ 215)
• Kody Watts, Sr. QB (6′2″ 190)
• Tom Zink, Sr. OL/LB (5′8″ 185)

Schedule:

Skyview does not play a team form the state of Washington until week 3 this season. Non-league openers at Sherwood of Oregon and home vs Coeur d’Alene of Idaho will mean plenty of unknowns to start the Storm’s season. A week 4 road game at 3A Camas will probably be the game of the year in Southwest Washington, and a week 8 matchup vs rival Columbia River means there are no free rides in the Skyview non-league schedule. The Storm welcome Heritage and Evergreen to Kiggins Bowl for league games, and travel to Battle Ground on a Thursday night and have their regular season finally at Union, which could be for the 4A Greater St. Helens League title.

• Sept 3, 7:00 pm at Sherwood
• Sept 11, 7:00 pm Coeur d’Alene
• Sept 17, 7:00 pm Heritage*
• Sept 24, 7:00 pm at Camas
• Oct 1. 5:00 pm Lincoln
• Oct 7, 7:00 pm at Battle Ground*
• Oct 15, 8:00 pm Evergreen*
• Oct 22, 8:00 pm Columbia River
• Oct 29, 8:00 pm at Union*

If all goes well:

Unlike last season where Skyview flew under the radar most of the season, this Storm team expects to make another run at a state championship. Skyview could very easily finish 9-0. Skyview faces a tough test week 1 at Sherwood of Oregon, but has the skill to take that game. Week 4 at Camas will be Skyview’s biggest challenge of the season. In league play Skyview could take all 4 with home games vs Heritage and Evergreen and a big week 9 game at Union, giving them their 3rd straight 4A GSHL crown. With a few home games to start the playoffs, seeing Skyview again in the Semifinals is not out of the question.

Union Titans

Union LB/RB Zak Browning is a preseason GSHL All Level All-Star 1st Team LB

What we know:

We are entering a new era of Union Titans football. Last year’s seniors graduated with a record of 30-6 and 2 trips to the Tacoma Dome. Fans either see this Titans team in 2 lights. 1, Union will be lucky to win a game because all of their players graduated, or 2, Union destroyed so many teams that the JV’s came in in the 2nd quarter and they have more experience than any team in the state. Now I know those are 2 extremes, and the truth is somewhere in the middle. Union does bring back plenty of experienced players such as Sr. RB/LB Zak Browning (5′11″ 210) who as a Sophomore helped the Titans make the state finals.  Sr. TE/LB T.J. Boatright and Jr. QB/DB Tanner Nelson all also started last season for the Titans. Jr. RB/DB Brandon Brody-Heim was electric last season when spelling Penaranda and Russell. Brody-Heim was selected as the 4A preseason Offensive player of the Year. The Titans are in no short supply of talented athletes, and with an excellent coaching staff that has taken both Union and Evergreen on multiple playoff runs, this year’s Titans should finish the season at or near the top of the GSHL once again.

Players to watch:

• T.J. Boatright, Sr. TE/LB (6′5″ 215)
• Brandon Brody-Heim, Jr. RB/DB (5′10″ 200)
• Zak Browning, Sr. RB/LB (5′11″ 210)
• Ray Burney, Jr. WR/DB (5′11″ 160)
• Kaben Butler, Jr. QB/DB (6′3″ 175)
• Tanner Nelson, Jr QB/DB (5′11″ 185)
• Gabe Rego, Jr. WR/DB (6′1″ 190)
• Ryan Stanford, Jr. RB/DB (5′10″ 155)

Schedule:

Union is the only 4A Greater St. Helens League team to have all 5 of their non-league games before they start league play. A huge week 1 game in Seattle vs 3A Bellevue will defiantly test the young Titans early. Another road game at Westview of Oregon will give Union a challenge. Home games vs 3A Enumclaw and 3A Kelso, as well as a road game vs 3A Mountain View at McKenzie wrap up the Titans non-league schedule. All 4 league games are at McKenzie this season for the Titans, as they play Heritage and Evergreen in their white jerseys. Battle Ground comes to McKenzie as well as Skyview in week 9, a game that could be for the 4A GSHL Championship.

• Sept 4, 5:30 pm vs Bellevue (Qwest Field, Seattle)
• Sept 11, 1:00 pm Enumclaw
• Sept 17, 7:30 pm at Westview
• Sep 24, 5:00 pm Kelso
• Oct 1, 8:00 pm at Mountain View
• Oct 8, 8:00 pm at Heritage*
• Oct 15, 8:00 pm Battle Ground*
• Oct 22, 8:00 pm at Evergreen*
• Oct 29, 8:00 pm Skyview*

If all goes well:

It is going to be very difficult for this group of Titans to match Union’s success of ‘08 and ‘09, however winning their first 4A GSHL Championship is by no means out of reach. I don’t see Union beating Bellevue in week 1, but the Wolverines are very young as well, but after that, Union has the athletes to run the table heading into week 9 vs Skyview. If the Titans can knock off the 2-time defending 4A Champs and get a home game to start the playoffs, don’t be surprised to see them win a few post season games.

GSHL Power Rankings

1- Camas (7-3 in 2009)
2- Skyview (10-3)
3- Union (13-1)
4- Evergreen (4-5)
5- Heritage (4-6)
On the radar: Mark Morris, R.A. Long, Mountain View, Kelso, Columbia River

The GSHL Power Rankings have come out, and we have a new #1.

1. Is this the year of the Papermakers? We think so. Camas is loaded with talent and poised to make the schools first ever playoff run in 2010. Senior QB Logan Grindy has plenty of skill players around him including Sr. WR’s Jeremy Faulkner and Miguel Salamanca. If Sr. Addison Owen is as good of a RB as he is WR Camas could be unstoppable. With Sr. Trevor Clarkson, Sr. Odin Coe and Jr. Gary Stokes up front Camas should put up lots of points this season. On defense, Coe is a highly recruited DL. Owen and Sr. DB Brent Hill are both returning 1st team All-League DB’s. Sr. LB Kaika Gunderson is going to make running on Camas hard to do.

2. Skyview will try to avoid the trap the 2009 Heritage Timberwolves fell into. Loads of skill players and an inexperienced line. Sr. WR/DB Ellis Henderson and Sr. WR Karl Graves are back and ready to lead the Storm back to the state Semifinals, and hopefully further. Jr. RB Parker Henry is back and healthy again as well. Sr. QB Kody Watts will take over for last years co-offensive player of the year Austin Dodge. Skyview only returns 2 offensive linemen in Sr. Cody Fields and Sr. Tom Zink. Defensively the storm need to replace many stand out players, DB’s Ian Zarosinski and Adam Brown, as well as LB’s Jonny Barrett and Alec Osborn, and last years defensive player of the year DL Dallin Shirley. Henderson and Henry are back on the corners as well as Fields on the DL and Zink back at LB. The next group of young Storm players now need to fill in around them, something we think they can do.

3. The Titans won’t be the same Union team we seen over the past 2 seasons, but they will still be very good. With Sr’s RB/LB Zak Browning, TE/LB T.J. Boatright, DL Jordan Newman and Jr. DB/QB Tanner Nelson all starting last season, they have the experience needed to lead a talented young team. Jr. RB/DB Brandon Brody-Heim is the 4A preseason offensive player of the year this season, and other Titans such as Jr. QB/DB Kaben Butler, Jr. WR/DB Ray Burney and Jr. WR/DB Gabe Rego look ready to at least keep Union in the upper tier of the GSHL.

4. Evergreen has just about all of last seasons starters back and they seem to have that double wing down quite well. Sr. RB’s Chase Lawrence, Quwontae Wallace and Richie Townsend all had success running the football last season. Sr. offensive linemen Jayson Tiatia, Kelly Sucksdorf and Jacob Maki all provide experience up front. If the Plainsmen can control the ball like they did last season, teams will have a hard time scoring on them. Evergreen needs to cut out their mistakes on offense and they could find themselves back in the post season.

5. Heritage may not have the big names on offense this season, but the coaching staff has gone back to stressing defense and balance on offence. Like Evergreen, Heritage also has an experienced offensive line. Sr. Nolan LaValley, Casey Hoodenpyle, Bryce Sanders and Tyrell Quigley should make the transition to running more a whole lot easier. A pair of younger RB’s will take over for the Timberwolves. Soph. Carnell Vernon and Jr. Rajheem Carrie will both be hard to stop once they get into open space. Sr WR Ben Lyons bring back experience. Heritage still has not picked their starting QB, but with most of these players also playing defense, the Timberwolves will no longer need to simply outscore their opponents to win football games.

Think we got it wrong? Let us know who your top-5 GSHL schools are below.