‘Luke’s skywalkers’
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ZONE
Thank you to the local businesses who support high school athletics!
BOYS, GIRLS HOOPS
■ Team-by-team preview capsules and schedules for every boys and girls basketball team.
BOYS, GIRLS WRESTLING
■ Thurston is poised for another powerhouse season in Class 5A. Plus, team-by-team preview capsules for every boys and girls wrestling team.
SWIMMING & CHEER
■ School-by-school preview capsules, schedules.
Jackson keeps a healthy balance while taking over Class 3A Billies
BY RON HARTMAN HARTMAN@CHRONICLE1909.COM
CRESWELL – It’s probably fair to say that Luke Jackson is heavily invested.
As he begins his fi rst year running the boys basketball program at Pleasant Hill High School, he’s not only heavily invested in making his students better basketball players, but better people, too. With two all-star players –6-foot-3 senior guard Gavin Inglish and 6-1 junior guard Landen Melvin – and a strong supporting cast, expectations have never been higher for Billies fans.
Jackson had to leave practice early a few nights ago – he was the color commentator for the Oregon-Oregon State men’s basketball game in Corvallis. Obviously, he’s staying fully immersed with the school that made him famous during his All-American career from 2000-04.
The University of Oregon showed its appreciation this summer, as its Hall of Fame Committee presented Jackson with the Leo Harris Award – also known as the Man of the Year Award – for his 20 years of achievement and service since graduation. Harris, the athletic director from 1947-67, is famous for having a handshake deal with Walt Disney to use Donald Duck’s likeness for The Duck, Oregon’s iconic mascot.
“He’s a pioneer. He did all of these amazing things for the school,” Jackson said. “So they named this commu-
See BILLIES – 6
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Watch-O-Rama
■ Ken Woody, a local legend, brings his football expertise to the Monday Night Football / Simpsons FunDay event. Page 2
■ The Chronicle published a day early this week to ensure that readers receive their newspaper by Thanksgiving. This week, single copies are distributed on Tuesday, and newspapers are expected to arrive on Wednesday. Wishing all our readers and supporters a Happy Thanksgiving!
Young Rosies
All-League honors
■ Area players earn spots on the fall sports season's all-league teams.
■ The Chronicle wraps up its month-long series about the local Rosie the Riveters with a few youngsters following in their footsteps.
Page 6
Rebuild? Millers maintain big goals
BY M c KENZIE DAYS Mc KENZIE@CHRONICLE1909.COM
SPRINGFIELD – Rebuild? Who said anything about rebuilding the Springfield High girls basketball program?
Just because star players Danaeja Romero-Ah Sam and Diamond Wright – who championed the Millers to three straight state championship games – have moved on?
“I am definitely not going in thinking
SPRINGFIELD—This Thanksgiving, Sen. Ron Wyden and Rep. Val Hoyle are urging Oregonians to have conversations with older loved ones about Medicare enrollment (along with their turkey and sides) at the dining room table.
On Nov. 22, at Willamalane Adult Activity Center, Sen. Wyden and Rep. Hoyle hosted a press conference in conjunction with EugeneSpringfield seniors and local advocates to brief attendees on Medicare updates, protect seniors from fraudulent activity, and ensure that seniors
that we have to ‘rebuild,’” said coach Joe Williamson, entering his sixth season with the Millers. “I don’t believe that.
I think it’s just a different team and a different look. We’ll have some excellent players ready to take over with Danaeja’s leaving.”
Danaeja, the older sister of Darissa and the two-time player of the year who is now at Eastern Arizona University,
See MILLERS – 9
BY LAUREN ENGLET LAUREN@CHRONICLE1909.COM
SPRINGFIELD — As stores gear up to accommodate an influx of shoppers this holiday season, one common fear remains on retailers' minds: theft. While thievery may see a spike this time of year, the Springfield Police Department has been working to combat the problem for some time, unveiling updates at a
Fall season ends
Finding your voice
Page 4
■ Thurston and Cottage Grove football seasons come to end in the playoffs.
Page 7-8
■ The local Aphasia Support Group helps members discover and express their unique voices.
Page 13
MAILING LABEL BELOW
Gavin Inglish (left) and Landen Melvin
Darissa Romero-Ah Sam is among the returning players SHS will rely upon.
BOB WILLIAMS / THE CHRONICLE
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ZONE
nity service award for him. It was quite an honor.”
Jackson has always been community-oriented. As a fourth-generation Creswellian, he believes in giving back. His dad was a drywall contractor for 39 years. His grandfather was a milkman, the kind who used to deliver to people’s doorsteps. “We always had ice cream around,” Jackson said.
“I grew up in Creswell playing every day at the park, rain or shine.”
Jackson cares deeply about all of his life’s pursuits – and family comes first. It is the primary reason he’s coaching at Pleasant Hill after being a two-time Oregon Player of the Year at Creswell during his high school career.
“The biggest thing is having my own boys being able to write their own story,” Jackson said of his sons Cole, 14, an eighthgrader, and Calvin, 11, a fifth-grader. “It’s never been about Creswell is better, or Pleasant Hill is better, or anything like that. I just want them to have their own experience.”
Jackson said that “never in a million years” did he expect to be coaching at the high school level now, but he’s glad to have the hand he’s been dealt.
“It does fill my cup, along with broadcasting Ducks games,” Jackson said. “But it’s more about being a steward of the game, passing on some of the things I’ve learned, and as a dad. A lot of former players have trouble finding that balance.
“You want them to have a passion, and I think both of my boys have their own love for it. I want them to have a good experience with it and not feel like we’re a basketball family and this is what we do. And if they do, we’re going to support you. If not, let’s go get some ice cream and forget about it. That’s kind of my outlook on it.” ***
With two guards as versatile as Inglish and Melvin, the Billies sort of have a high school version of the old Luke & Luke Show, when Oregon stars Jackson and Luke Ridenour became one of college basketball’s most famous 1-2 combos.
“Gavin is a great kid, a high character kid. He’s good in the classroom, he doesn’t take days off, he works hard, and he’s also very unselfish, and that’s a great ability to have, having that kind of leadership,” Jackson said. “He’s going to be keyed on all season, so having that 1-2 punch with Landen and Gavin, where they can rely on one another, plus we also have an inside presence, guys won’t be able to doubleteam him so much and it will take the pressure off of Gavin. I’m impressed with his work ethic and his ability to play unselfish basketball.
“With Landen being older, he’s grown,
and he plays above the rim now. He started as a 14-year-old freshman and he’s a tremendous athlete. He’s not just a shooter, he can finish around the rim.”
Jackson said post players Riley Smith and Caden Fisher will control the paint. “We’ll be tough. But we’ll only be as good as our defense,” he said.
Smith, a 6- senior, transferred during the summer from Creswell. He was dominant inside against the Billies in their two matchups last season.
“Riley has added a lot of strength this summer, and he can guard multiple positions, so we’re eager to see what he can do for us,” Jackson said.
Fisher, who didn’t play last year, is also 6- . Jackson says he could be an “impact player.”
Junior Jacob Neely, who plays quarterback for the football team, is expected to play a key role, while Doug Green brother of volleyball star Cheyenne Green , Noah Johnson, and sophomore Logan Melvin, Landon’s younger brother, will also fit into the Billies’ game plans.
“We have a nice blend of talent. I see some good depth, on the academic side and the character side,” Jackson said. “Every so often you get a group of guys who mesh together really well, and I believe we have that. I think we had one of the highest GPAs in the state last year – a lot of 4.0 kids. And we have a lot of new kids; we’ll probably have 13 kids on the roster.” ***
Pleasant Hill’s season ended with a thud last year, as Harrisburg avenged a 32-point regular-season loss to the illies with a 46-41 victory.
“ heir coach, erry Crabb, and Creswell’s Jesse Thomas are very established coaches,”
Jackson said. “Terry is a Dean Smith fan. They beat us, then we ran them out of the gym, but Harrisburg and Creswell find ways to compete so it will be fun to find ways to compete against them again.”
Harrisburg and Creswell might be crucial league games for Pleasant Hill, but the illies schedule is chock-full of challenging competition. They play Western Christian, which just won back-to-back 2A state titles Oakland, another 2A powerhouse; and De La Salle and Valley Catholic, two strong Portland-area teams.
“The schedule was set when I got here, I kind of walked into it,” Jackson said. “We’ll find out who we are, there will be lots of coachable time. We won't go through that unscathed, but it’s really about how we do in league, so it will be interesting to see if we make it to state and learn who we are along the way.”
Luke Jackson became a household name in Creswell at a young age and his legend has lived on. But during his sophomore season, his career almost ended prematurely in a game against Elmira.
“I was going in for a layup and this kid from Elmira pushes me from behind and I landed on my head,” Jackson recalled. “I broke my arm. But it looked like I broke my neck. The kid got expelled.”
When Creswell faces Pleasant Hill this season, a little fuel will be added to an already fiery rivalry. Which is a good thing, right?
“I think it’s great,” Jackson said. “It’s funny how people can be so tribal in nature, even though every one of us in Creswell has friends in Pleasant Hill. That's what makes sports fun, is good rivalries. … I never thought I would be on this end of it.
I’m sure they have this game circled on their calendar.
“It’s not about me, at all – I’m not playing. It’s about the kids and helping them have a great high school experience, a wellrounded experience. People can make it about me, but it’s about the players.” ***
Jackson also stays fully invested with his ex-teammates and former players. He coached for five years at Northwest Christian now ushnell , stepping down in 201 .
“I had a chance to be a D-I coach, but I wanted to spend more time with my family,” he said. “I’ll be at all of their games, show up at practice, all that stuff.” Jackson, who said he “would never say never” about taking a D-1 job in the future, resurrected a struggling program at N orthwest Christian now ushnell .
“We were one shot away from winning an NAIA Div. II national championship and had never been to nationals before,” he said. “We finished in the top five twice, won coach of the year twice, player of the year three times, and went to the national tournament four of the five years I was there.”
One of his players, Kylor Kelley, led the G-League in blocked shots last season and signed a deal with the Los Angeles Lakers this year.
“I was talking with some of my players from Northwest Christian – it’s neat as they’re getting older and getting married to listen how that was a special part of their life. As a coach you want to give every player a special experience, teach them how to work hard, and kind of cultivate a brotherhood, because so many guys have bad experiences playing. I feel like I can kind of guide them by working hard but having fun. Because in the end, it’s just a game.”
When he’s not in the gym – or out hunting or fishing – Jackson shows his investment in his community in a variety of ways. He owns a medical testing laboratory that does samples for hospitals and clinics throughout the Northwest. he Corvallisbased company has clients in 14 states and has contracts with several long-term care and addiction treatment facilities.
He also speaks at the Oregon State Penitentiary, is a board member at Looking Glass, and for the past five years has partnered with the Al Forthan Scholarship fund that awards scholarships to high school students whose parents are incarcerated.
After undergoing 1 surgeries during an injury-plagued professional career, Jackson said he’s almost pain-free now.
Being at Pleasant Hill right now is a pleasant life for Luke Jackson.
“Realistically, I’m just a country bumpkin who likes to stay out in the woods as much as possible,” he said. “Hunting, fishing, basketball, church, hang out with family. I’m pretty lucky.”
BILLIES from 1
BOB WILLIAMS / THE CHRONICLE
Luke Jackson was a high school star at Creswell, and later at the University of Oregon. Now he’s at Pleasant Hill, trying to build a state championship team with the Billies.
COTTAGE GROVE LIONS
▪ Address: 1375 S. River Rd.
▪ Head coach: Seth Hutchison, 7th year at Cottage Grove (44-87 career record).
2023-24 SEASON
8-15 overall ... 1-7 league ... 4th in Sky-Em League ... #17 in Class 4A. ... Lost OSAA play-In round to Newport.
HISTORY
Last championship in 1991 ... Last playoff appearance was 2023. ... 6 league titles.
TOP RETURNERS
▪ Trevor Cooper (#33), So., Post/ Guard, 6-7 ... 2023 stats: 11. 5 PPG, 9.1 Rebs
▪ Josh Bruner (#23), Sr., Guard, 6-1 ... 2023 stats: 5.3 PPG, 5.5 RPG
▪ Nathin Lemon (#2), Sr., Guard, 6-0 ... 2023 stats: 2.2 PPG, 35% from 3 ... returning from a major knee injury last year and had a solid spring and summer.
▪ Samuel Harrison (#34), Jr., Post, 6-8 ... 2023 stats: Transferred from Oakridge.
▪ Landon Vaughn (#10), So., Guard, 5-8 ... 2023 stats: 5.5 PPG
▪ Total returning players: 7
STRENGTHS
▪ Size with 6-7 and 6-8 frontcourt
▪ Dept h – an attribute that the Lions haven’t possessed in a long time
▪ Work ethic and ability to get after people AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
▪ The ability to handle expectations put on them due to youth
▪ Knocking down open shots, with teams packing the paint
▪ Team chemistry
SCHEDULE
12/4 vs. Molalla, 7 p.m.
12/6 vs. Sisters, 7 p.m.
12/10 vs. Cascade, 7 p.m.
12/13 at Sweet Home, 5:30 p.m.
HSSZ: Winter Sports Preview
12/19-21 Battle of I-5, TBD
12/26-28 Stayton Tournament, TBD
1/3 at Phoenix, 7:30 p.m.
1/7 vs. Newport, 5:45 p.m.
* 1/10 vs. Marist Catholic, 5:45 p.m.
*1/14 vs. Marshfield, 5:45 p.m.
* 1/17 at Junction City, 5:45 p.m.
* 1/21 vs. North Bend, 5:45 p.m.
* 1/28 at Marist Catholic, 5:45 p.m.
* 1/31 at Marshfield, 7:15 p.m.
* 2/4 vs. Junction City, 7:15 p.m.
* 2/7 at North Bend, 7:15 p.m.
* 2/13 vs. Marist Catholic, 7:15 p.m.
* 2/18 vs. Marshfield, 7:15 p.m.
* 2/25 at Junction City, 7:15 p.m.
* 2/25 at North Bend, 7:15 p.m.
* League
TOP GAMES: Marist, Marshfield, Cascade
CRESWELL BULLDOGS
▪ Address: 33390 Niblock Ln.
▪ Head coach: Jesse Thomas, 9th year at Creswell (112-74 career record).
2023-24 SEASON
15-12 overall ... 7-5 league ... 3rd in Mountain Valley Conference ... #16 in Class 3A ... Lost in second round of OSAA playoffs to De La Salle North Catholic.
HISTORY
Last state title was 2004 ... Last playoff appearance in 2022-23. ... 4th place at state tournament. ... League titles in 2018, ’20, ’23
TOP RETURNERS
▪ Tyler Whitson (#12), Sr., Guard, 6-2
2023 stats:1st team MVC Selection
14.3 ppg, 7.3 reb, 4.3 ast
▪ Darien Dewey (#5), Sr., Guard, 6-2
▪ Total returning players: 6
STRENGTHS
▪ Team speed
▪ Defensive versatility
▪ Transition offense AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
▪ Team rebounding
▪ Varsity experience
▪ Perimeter shooting
SCHEDULE
12/5 vs. Aussie BBX, 7 p.m.
12/6 vs. Marist Catholic, 7 p.m
12/10 at Central Linn, 6 p.m.
12/12 vs. Santiam Christian, 7 p.m.
12/13 vs. Oakland, 7 p.m.
12/19-21 Battle of I-5, TBD
12/26-28 Cascade Classic, TBD
1/3 at North Bend, 7 p.m.
1/7 at Glide, 7 p.m.
1/9 vs. Lowell, 7 p.m.
* 1/14 vs. La Pine, 6 p.m.
* 1/17 at Sisters, 6 p.m.
1/20 at Westside Christian, TBD
* 1/22 vs. Harrisburg, 6 p.m.
* 1/24 at Elmira, 6 p.m.
* 1/28 at Pleasant Hill, 6 p.m.
* 1/31 at La Pine, 7:30 p.m.
* 2/4 vs. Sisters, 7:30 p.m.
* 2/7 at Harrisburg, 7:30 p.m.
* 2/11 vs. Elmira, 7:30 p.m.
* 2/14 vs. Pleasant Hill, 7:30 p.m.
* League
TOP GAMES: P-Hill, Oakland, Marist
PLEASANT HILL BILLIES
▪ Address: 84455 N. Enterprise Rd.
▪ Head coach: Luke Jackson, 1st year
2023-24 SEASON
20-5 overall ... 11-1 league ... 2nd in Mountain Valley Conference ... #4 in Class 3A ... Lost in second round of OSAA playoffs to Neah-Kah-Nie HISTORY
Last state championship was 1999.
TOP RETURNERS
▪ Gavin Inglish (#5) Sr. Guard, 6-3; First-Team All-State, 22.2 ppg; 7.1 rpg, 4.1 apg.
▪ Landen Melvin (#4) Jr. Guard, 6-1
STRENGTHS
▪ Good shooting
▪ Team chemistry
▪ Deep bench.
AREA FOR IMPROVEMENT
▪ Tough schedule should keep the
Billies humble. This team could make a run at state if it meshes well.
SCHEDULE
12/4 vs. Jefferson, 7:30 p.m.
12/6 at Western Christian, 7 p.m.
12/7 vs. Valley Catholic, 5 p.m.
12/10 vs. DeLaSalle N. Catholic, 7 p.m.
12/12 vs. Douglas, 4:45 p.m. (Dayton Invitational)
12/13 at Catlin Gabel, 1:45 p.m. (Dayton Invitational)
12/14 vs. DeLaSalle N. Catholic (Dayton Invitational), noon 12/19-21 Battle of I-5, TBD 12/28 at Warrenton, 4 p.m. 1/3 at Catlin Gabel, 3:30 p.m. 1/10 vs. Oakland, 7:30 p.m.
* 1/14 at Elmira, 6 p.m.
* 1/17 at Harrisburg, 6 p.m.
1/18 vs. Burns, 5 p.m.
* 1/21 vs. La Pine, 6 p.m.
* 1/24 vs. Sisters, 6 p.m.
* 1/28 vs. Creswell, 6 p.m.
* 1/31 vs. Elmira, 7:30 p.m.
* 2/1 at Cascade Christian, 7 p.m.
* 2/4 vs. Harrisburg, 7:30 p.m.
* 2/6 at La Pine, 7:30 p.m.
* 2/10 at Sisters, 7:30 p.m.
* 2/14 at Creswell, 7:30 p.m.
* League
SPRINGFIELD MILLERS
▪ Address : 875 7th St.
▪ Head coach: T.C. Combs, 2nd year at Springfield (5-18 career record)
2023-24 SEASON
5-18 overall record ... 2-10 league record ... 6th in Midwestern League ... #26 in Class 5A ... Did not reach OSAA playoffs.
HISTORY
Last playoff appearance was 2020 ... Last league was 2014-15.
TOP RETURNERS
▪ Vinnie Trinka, Sr., Point Guard, 5-11 ...2023 stats: Trinka was the top scorer last season.
▪ Total returning players: 1
STRENGTHS
▪ Quick
▪ Scrappy
▪ Defend AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
▪ Chemistry with a new group
▪ Communication on the floor
▪ Basketball IQ
SCHEDULE
12/6 at Wilsonville (Holiday Inn WIT), 8:30 p.m.
12/7 TBD (Holiday Inn WIT, Wilsonville High School)
12/8 TBD (Holiday Inn WIT, Wilsonville High School)
12/9 vs. Canby, 5:30 p.m.
12/11 at Ridgeview, 6:30 p.m.
12/13 at Centennial (Centennial Tip Off) 7:30 p.m.
12/14 vs. Hillsboro (Centennial Tip Off,), 2:30 p.m.
2/17 at Silverton, 7 p.m.
12/19 vs. Crescent Valley, 6:45 p.m.
12/23 vs. Sheldon, 6:45 p.m.
1/3 vs. Willamette, 6:45 p.m.
1/7 at Cascade, 7 p.m.
* 1/14 vs. Churchill, 6:45 p.m.
* 1/17 vs. Eagle Point, 7 p.m.
* 1/21 vs. Thurston, 7 p.m.
* 1/24 at Ashland, 7 p.m.
* 1/28 vs. North Eugene, 7 p.m.
* 1/31 at Crater, 5:30 p.m.
* 12/4 at Churchill, 7:30 p.m.
* 2/14 at Eagle Point, 7 p.m.
* 2/18 at Thurston, 7 p.m.
* 2/21 vs. Ashland, 7 p.m.
* 2/25 at North Eugene, 6:45 p.m.
* 2/28 vs. Crater, 7 p.m.
* League
TOP GAMES: Wilsonville, Thurston, Churchill
THURSTON COLTS
▪ Address: 333 58th St.
▪ Head coach: Blaine Liberatore, 10th year at Thurston (118-98).
2023-24 SEASON
17-8 overall ... 10-2 league ... 2nd in Midwestern League ... #12 in Class 5A.
Sponsored by Papa Murphy's Pizza
GIRLS BASKETBALL
COTTAGE GROVE LIONS
▪ Address: 1375 S. River Rd.
▪ Head coach: Pete LeMay, 3rd year at Cottage Grove (34-41 career record).
2023-24 SEASON
15-13 overall … 2-6 in league … 5th in Sky-Em League … #18 in Class 4A. … Lost first round of OSAA playoffs to Astoria.
HISTORY
Last playoff appearance in 2023-24 … Last state championship was 2010.
TOP RETURNERS
▪ Makya Alsup (#3), Jr., Point forward
▪ Mariah Bailey (#12), Sr., Guard
▪ Sienna Wagner (#15), Sr., Point forward
▪ Returning players: 7
STRENGTHS
▪ Inside-Outside game
▪ Team Defense
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENTS
▪ Improvement for each week
SCHEDULE
12/4/24 vs. Molalla, 5:30 p.m.
12/6/24 vs. Sisters, 5:30 p.m.
12/10/24 vs. Hidden Valley, 5:30 p.m.
12/13/24 at Sweet Home, 7 p.m.
12/16/24 vs. Cascade, 7p.m.
12/19/24 vs. Stayton, TBD
12/20-12/28/24 Tournament, TBD
1/3/25 at Phoenix, 6 p.m.
1/7/25 vs. Newport, 7:15 p.m.
* 1/10/25 vs. Marist Catholic, 7:15 p.m.
* 1/14/25 vs. Marshfield, 7:15 p.m.
* 1/17/25 at Junction City, 7:15 p.m.
* 1/21/25 vs. North Bend, 7:15 p.m.
* 1/28/25 at Marist Catholic, 7:15 p.m.
* 1/31/25 at Marshfield, 5:45 p.m.
* 2/4/25 vs. Junction City, 5:45 p.m.
* 2/7/25 at North Bend, 5:45 p.m.
* 2/13/25 vs. Marist Catholic, 5:45 p.m.
* 2/18/25 vs. Marshfield 5:45 p.m.
* 2/21/25 at Junction City, 5:45 p.m.
* 2/25/25 at North Bend, 5:45 p.m.
* League
CRESWELL BULLDOGS
Address: 33390 Niblock Ln.
Head coach: Tyler Hollingsworth, 8th year at Creswell (87-83 career record).
2023-24 SEASON
21-9 overall … 10-2 in league play … 1st in Moun tain Valley Conference … #10 in Class 3A … Lost consolation round of OSAA playoffs to Banks.
HISTORY
Last playoff appearance: 2023-24, finished 6th.
TOP RETURNERS
▪ Elliette Kinney (#11), Jr., Forward, 5-8 … 202324 stats: Honorable Mention- 8.5 PPG, 6 RBS 2.8 SPG, Player of the Game in state tournament.
▪ Kylie Leonar d (#5), Jr., Guard, 5-5 … 2023-24 stats: Honorable mention, 6 PPG, 2 RPB, 3 APG, 2.5 SPG
▪ Brooke Moehlmann (#15), Sr., Forward, 5-11 … 2023-24 stats: 7 PPG, 4rbs, 32% from 3.
▪ Returning players: 7
COTTAGE GROVE LIONS
▪ Head Coach: Melissa Gemmet , 10th year at Cottage Grove
ROSTER
▪ Aaliyah Kunkle, Fr.; Abby Stere, Jr.; Annie Basting, Sr.; Babylon Yokum, Fr.; Carmen Coop. Fr.; Ethany Rivera, Jr.; Jaiden Shipley, Jr.; Jazmin Delima, So.; Kadance Crownover, Jr.; Karma Romero, So.; Kendaleigh Cone, Jr.; Kylee Middleton, Jr.; Liz Ellingson, Fr.; Lora Rodgers, Jr.; Mariah Cuthbertson, So.; Natalie Scheufele-Booth, So.; Raine Hill, So.; Riley Lengele, Fr.; Shelby Peppard, So.
SCHEDULE
1/18 Sweet Home Cheer Classic
2/1 Orange And Black Cheer Challenge
2/2 Wildcat Cheer Challenge
2/14-15 OSAA Cheerleading State Championships
2/22-23 OCCA Cheer Championships
*CGHS Cheer team cheers at football, basketball, volleyball, and wrestling.
CRESWELL BULLDOGS
▪ Head coach: Maranda Houck , 4th year
▪ History: State Championship: 3rd at State in 2022
▪ Top returners: Ava Koch, Jr. (captain); Sarah Trout, Jr.; Taylor Dennis, Jr.; Sophie Brown, So.
▪ Returning athletes: 7
HSSZ: WINTER PREVIEW
STRENGTHS
▪ Competitiveness
▪ Athleticism
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENTS
▪ Rebounding
▪ Ball Movement
▪ Finishing at the rim and 3pt shooting
SCHEDULE
12/5/24 vs. Aussie GBX, 5:45 p.m.
12/6/24 vs. Marist Catholic, 5:30 p.m.
12/10/24 at Central Linn, 7:30 p.m.
12/12/24 vs. Santiam Christian, 5:30 p.m.
12/13/24 vs. Oakland, 5:30 p.m.
12/19/24 vs. Brookings-Harbor, 4 p.m.
12/20/24 TBD vs. TBD (Battle of I-5, Creswell High School- Main Gym)
12/21/24 TBD vs. TBD (Battle of I-5, TBD)
12/30/24 at Jefferson, 6 p.m.
1/3/25 at North Bend, 5:30 p.m.
1/4/25 vs. Sutherlin, 5:30 p.m.
1/7/25 at Glide, 5:30 p.m.
1/9/25 vs. Lowell, 5:30 p.m.
1/10/25 at Molalla, 7 p.m.
* 1/14/25 vs. La Pine, 7:30 p.m.
* 1/17/25 at Sisters, 7:30 p.m.
1/20/25 vs. South Umpqua, 3 p.m.
* 1/22/25 vs. Harrisburg, 7:30 p.m
* 1/24/25 at Elmira, 7:30 p.m.
* 1/28/25 at Pleasant Hill, 7:30 p.m.
* 1/31/25 at La Pine, 6 p.m.
* 2/4/25 vs. Sisters, 6 p.m.
* 2/7/25 at Harrisburg, 6 p.m.
* 2/11/25 vs. Elmira, 5:30 p.m.
* 2/14/25 vs. Pleasant Hill, 6 p.m.
* League
TOP GAMES: Jefferson, Sutherlin … league opponents Pleasant Hill, Elmira, Sisters and Harrisburg
PLEASANT HILL BILLIES
▪ Address: 84455 N. Enterprise Rd.
▪ Head coach: Paxton Millers , 2nd year at Pleasant Hill (17-7 career record)
2023-24 SEASON
17-7 overall … 12-0 in league … 2nd in Mountain Valley Conference … #6 in Class 3A … Lost in second round of OSAA playoffs to Nysaa.
HISTORY
Last playoff appearance was 2023-24 season … 8 league titles.
TOP RETURNERS
▪ Claire Crawford (#35), Sr., Forward, 5-11 … 2023 stats: Two-time Mountain Valley Conference player o f the year. Averaged a double-double last season with six games over 20 points. 7 doubledoubles in the league and averaged 16 PPG, 11 RPG
2.5 SPG. Shot over 50% on the season.
▪ Brooke Weimer (#24), Sr., Forward, 5-8 … 2023
stats: 2nd tea m all-conference last season. 6 ppg, 5 rbg, 5 steals per game.
▪ Karsyn Stapleton (#1), So., Guard, 5-6 … 2023 stats: 2nd team all-conference; 11 PPG and 3 RPG.
▪ Returning players: 9
TEAM STRENGTHS
▪ Defense
▪ Len gth/Athleticism
▪ Depth
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
▪ Shooting
▪ Tempo/Pace o f play
Schedule: N/A
*CHS Cheer team cheers at football, basketball, volleyball, and wrestling.
PLEASANT HILL BILLIES
▪ Head coach: Chelsi Toles-Wallace, 3rd year at Pleasant Hill
▪ History: 5 State championships (2008, ‘09, ‘10, ‘11, ‘15) … Last state championship appearance was last season – 3rd place in the 1A/2A/3A Traditional Division.
▪ Top returners: Sarenity Peters, So. … 2023-24 stats: All-State Team 2023 and 2nd place All-State team 2024 winning a $750 College scholarship from OCCA (Oregon Cheerleading Coaches Association).; Laynie Reed, So. … 2023-24 stats: All-State Team; McKayli Seaton, Jr. … 2023-24 stats: All-State Team Finalist.
▪ Returning athletes: 9
SCHEDULE 12/14 Lebanon Warrior Rumble 1/11 Colt Cheer Challenge 1/25 Newberg Classic 2/8 OE Classic
▪ Shot quality/generating good looks SCHEDULE
12/4/24 vs. Jefferson, 6 p.m.
12/6/24 at Western Christian, 5:30 p.m.
12/7/24 vs. Valley Catholic, 3:30 p.m.
12/10/24 at Coquille, 7 p.m.
12/12/24 vs. Regis, Noon
12/13/24 vs. Banks, 3:30 p.m.
12/14/24 at Dayton, 8:15 p.m.
12/19/24 vs. Douglas, 6:30 p.m.
12/20/24 TBD vs. TBD
12/21/24 TBD vs. TBD 12/28/24 at Warrenton, 2 p.m.
1/2/25 vs. Corbett, 6 p.m.
1/10/25 vs. Oakland, 6 p.m.
* 1/14/25 at Elmira, 7:30 p.m.
* 1/17/25 at Harrisburg, 7:30 p.m.
1/18/25 vs. Burns, 3 p.m.
* 1/21/25 vs. La Pine, 7:30 p.m.
* 1/24/25 vs. Sisters, 7:30 p.m.
* 1/28/25 vs. Creswell, 7:30 p.m.
* 1/31/25 vs. Elmira, 6 p.m.
2/1/25 at Cascade Christian, 5:30 p.m.
2/4/25 vs. Harrisburg, 6 p.m.
2/6/25 at La Pine, 6 p.m.
2/10/25 at Sisters, 6 p.m.
2/14/25 at Creswell, 6 p.m.
* League
TOP GAMES: Banks, Western Christian, Corbett SPRINGFIELD MILLERS
▪ Address: 875 7th St.
▪ Head coach: Joe Williamson, 5th year at Springfield (72-29 career record)
2023-24 SEASON
20-9 overall … 10-2 in league record … 2nd in Midwestern League … #7 in Class 5A … Lost consolation round of playoffs.
HISTORY
Last playoff appearance: Finished 4th in state last year
… Last state title: ’22-23 season … 7 league titles.
TOP RETURNERS
▪ Darissa Romero-Ah Sam (#1), Jr., Point Guard, 5-6 … 2023 stats: Great energy on both ends of the floor. Good shooter and passer.
▪ Ryan Kelley (#14), Sr., Forward, 6-1 … 2023
stats: Missed last season with a knee injury. Very athletic player who can run the floor and finish at the rim with nice shots.
▪ Sailor Hall (#32), So., Wing, 5-7 … 2023 Stats: A very competitive player who is a good shooter and plays physically.
▪ Returning players: 5
TEAM STRENGTHS
▪ Shooting
▪ Size
▪ Defense
AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
▪ "They are a young team that just needs experience playing without Danaeja Romero-Ah Sam, but they are very capable once they stand out on their own," coach Williamson says.
SCHEDULE
12/9/24 vs. Canby, 7 p.m.
12/12/24 vs. Silverton, 6:45 p.m.
12/16/24 at Crescent Valley, 6:45 p.m.
12/18-12/21 Nike Tour. of Champions, Ariz., TBD 12/26-28 Stayton Tournament, TBD 1/7/25 vs. Cascade, 6:45p.m.
1/9/25 at Clackamas, 7 p.m.
* 1/14/25 at Churchill, 6:45 p.m.
* 1/17/25 vs. Eagle Point, 5:30 p.m.
* 1/21/25 vs. Thurston, 5:30 p.m.
* 1/24/25 at Ashland, 5:30 p.m.
* 1/28/25 vs. North Eugene, 5:30 p.m.
* 1/31/25 at Crater, 7 p.m.
* 2/4/25 vs. Churchill, 6:45 p.m.
* 2/14/25 at Eagle Point, 7 p.m.
* 2/18/25 at Thurston, 5:30 p.m.
* 2/21/25 vs. Ashland, 5:30 p.m.
*2/25/25 at North Eugene, 5:15 p.m.
*2/28/25 vs. Crater, 5:30 p.m. * League
TOP GAMES: Clackamas, Crater, Silverton THURSTON COLTS
▪ Address: 333 58th St.
▪ Head coach: Kevin Durfee, 2nd year at Thurston (7-17 career record)
CHEER
CHRONICLE FILE PHOTO
Claire Crawford (35), two-time Mountain Valley Conference player of the year, returns for her senior year with the Pleasant Hill Billies.
See GIRLS HOOPS – 9
HISTORY
Last title in 2018 ... Last playoff appearance was ’23-24 ... 3 league titles.
TOP RETURNERS
▪ Nate Stiffler (#15), Sr., Forward, 6-4/ ... 2023 stats: 2023-24 MWL
Player of the Year, 1st Team AllLeague, 2nd Team All-State.
▪ Noah Blair (#10), Sr., Guard, 6-1. ... 2023 stats: 2nd Team All-League, set school record for steals in a season (70)
▪ Lucas Labounty (#12), Jr., Guard, 6-4 2023 stats: Shot 52% from the field and 90% from the FT line.
▪ Total returning players: 9
STRENGTHS
▪ Depth + Experience
▪ Multiple players who can score effectively/regularly
▪ Half-court defense AREAS FOR IMPROVEMENT
▪ Rebounding
▪ Turnovers
▪ Free throw shooting
SCHEDULE
12/4 at Central, 7 p.m.
12/10 at West Albany HS, 6:45 p.m.
12/13 vs. Ridgeview HS, 5:30 p.m.
12/14 at Century, 6:30 p.m.
12/17 vs. S. Eugene, 6:45 p.m.
12/20 at Putnam, 7:15 p.m.
12/23 vs. Gresham, 6:45 p.m.
12/28-30 (Abby Invite, N. Medford), TBD
1/3 vs. Sheldon, 7 p.m.
1/7 vs. Mt. View, 6:45 p.m.
* 1/10 at Eagle Pt., 5:30 p.m.
* 1/14 vs. N. Eugene, 7 p.m.
* 1/17 vs. Crater, 7 p.m.
* 1/21 at Springfield, 7 p.m.
* 1/28 at Churchill, 7:30 p.m.
* 1/31 vs. Ashland, 7 p.m.
* 2/4 at N. Eugene, 6:45 p.m.
* 2/7 vs. Eagle Point, 7pm
* 2/14 at Crater, 7 p.m.
* 2/18 vs. Springfield, 7 p.m.
MILLERS from 1 “I don’t
and Wright having transferred to Willamette High School for her senior season, Williamson has been focusing on fostering the talent still here: Iyahna Woodard, Ikunaday Filipe, Sailor Hall, Mylah Wilson, Ryan Kelley and Danaeja’s sister, Darissa Romero-Ah Sam.
He said this 2024-2 team has robust strength in three categories: shooting, size, and defense.
“It starts with the fact that we have a lot of returning size,” Williamson said.
“We didn’t have Ryan at all last season because she had a knee injury. She’s long and athletic and can defend big. She can defend players outside because of her uickness, and she runs the oor really well, so she's a key piece for us this year.
“Then there’s Iyahna, who was 6-1 as a freshman last year. She s another big piece to our team. And then we have Ikunaday; she’s not as big, but she plays big. She is aggressive and doesn’t back down to anybody. If I want to put somebody on a post who's having a good game and say, ‘Hey, go in and shut her down and don't let her catch the ball,’ she is that person.
“And then they can all shoot. All three of those posts are not just back-to-the-basket type posts.
think we’re necessarily building. Our girls are all very capable. We still have the pieces to compete with the best teams in the state this year.”
– Joe Williamson, coach
They can all extend and shoot from the outside,” he said.
Williamson said that his team has the size to play with most teams in the state. He also mentions the strength of the shooters and defense.
“Mylah, one of our few seniors, will bring a good locker room presence,” he said. “She’s a good guard who can shoot and a good defender, so we’ll lean on her experience. Darissa and Sailor are two of the best shooters in the state, and they can shoot from anywhere. So yeah, we can compete for a league championship this year and at a state tournament.
“I don’t think we’re necessarily building. Our girls are all very capable. We still have the pieces to compete with the best teams in the state this year. I by no means am going into the year feeling like we're underdogs or anything. We're still going to be one of the better teams and I'm sure we'll be one of the top five or six teams in the state.”
And while the current roster is young, Williamson said they are not inexperienced.
“We have so much confidence
with this year’s group because when you're on a team that has success and wins, and you play in the state tournament each and every year you get a lot of experience,” he said. ”So they're kind of wise beyond their years and are a little bit older than their age would suggest.
Given this talent, Williamson said the main goals for the season are a league title, making the state tournament, and finishing top five.
Big goals, indeed. Yet Williamson acknowledges the impact of Danaeja’s departure on the team, particularly on her sister Darissa.
“She struggled with the fact that her sister wasn t there at first,” he sa id. “She had to figure out how it felt to play without her. They also fit well with each other – even when they weren't in the game together, they were cheering for each other and supporting one another.”
Williamson said that Darissa started to blossom toward the end of the offseason. “I'd say in the last part of summer ball, she started to come in and embrace this new role. And I think that’s symbolic for many players this year who are also stepping into new roles.”
Darissa said she’s more focused on the team than her sister’s absence.
“My goal is not to try and take her spot, but to be a role model as she was,” Darissa said. “I’m more focused on the team chemistry –especially with getting Ryan back and that leadership than winning or anything else right now.”
2023-24 SEASON 7-17 overall … 3-9 in league … 5th in Midwestern League … #25 in Class 5A … Did not reach OSAA playoffs.
HISTORY Last playoff appearance was 2021.
TOP RETURNERS
Bridgette Nault (#13), Jr., Post, 6-0 … 2023 stats: All-league Gracie Nissen (#22), Jr., Forward, 5-8 Payton Tovey (#12), So., Guard, 5-8 … 2023 stats: Honorable Mention all league.
TEAM STRENGTHS
▪ Enthusiasm
▪ Athleticism ▪ Willingness to become great SCHEDULE
12/4 at Roseburg, 6:45 p.m.
12/6 vs. Century, 5:15 p.m.
12/10 vs. West Albany, 6:45 p.m.
12/13 vs. Ridgeview, 7 p.m.
12/14 vs. St. Mary's Academy, 6:45 p.m.
12/17 at South Eugene, 6:45 p.m.
12/21 at Liberty, 5 p.m.
12/30 vs. Lebanon, 5:30 p.m. 1/3 vs. Lakeridge, 5:30 p.m.
1/7 at Mountain View, 6:30 p.m.
* 1/10 at Eagle Point, 7 p.m.
* 1/14 vs. North Eugene, 5:30 p.m.
* 1/17 vs. Crater, 5:30 p.m.
* 1/21 at Springfield, 5:30 p.m.
1/24 vs. Roosevelt, 5:30 p.m.
* 1/28 vs. Churchill, 6:45 p.m.
* 1/31 vs. Ashland, 5:30 p.m.
* 2/4 at North Eugene, 5:30 p.m.
* 2/7 vs. Eagle Point, 5:30 p.m. 2/11 vs. Lake Oswego, 6:45 p.m.
* 2/14 at Crater, 5:30 p.m.
* 2/18 vs. Springfield, 5:30 p.m.
* 2/25 at Churchill, 6:45 p.m.
* 2/28 at Ashland, 5:30 p.m. * League
BOYS HOOPS from 7 GIRLS HOOPS from 8
Williamson
HSSZ: WINTER PREVIEW
COTTAGE GROVE LIONS
▪ Home meets: 1440 S. 8th St.
▪ Head coach: Shane Dye , 1st year at Cottage Grove
HISTORY
Last championship was 2014; 10-team state championships
… Last state championship appearance was 2014 … 30 league titles
TOP RETURNERS
Boys
▪ Hayes Valley, Sr. … 2023 stats: District Champion, 3rd place HS state meet 100 backstroke.
▪ Mathew Fergason, Sr. … 2023
stats 8th Place in 200 IM and 10th
in 500 free at state swim meet.
Girls
▪ Avery Bengtson , So. … 2023 stats: State champion 100m backstroke, 3rd in state 100 fly.
▪ Aillia Kelty, Sr. … 2023 stats: 5th place in district meet.
▪ Returning swimmers: 16
SCHEDULE
Boys
12/6 Cottage Grove Relays (Cottage Grove High School),
3:45 p.m.
12/20 Cottage Grove (Cottage Grove High School), 4:15 p.m.
1/17 Sheldon vs. Cottage Grove
Dual BSW Meet (Warren H Daughtery Aquatic Center), 3 p.m.
1/24 Cottage Grove vs. Marshfield
Dual BSW Meet (Mingus Park Pool), TBD
1/31 Roseburg vs. Cottage Grove
Dual BSW Meet (Cottage Grove),
4 p.m.
2/7 Cottage Grove (Warren H Daughtery Aquatic Center), 4 p.m.
2/14-15 Distric ts (Cottage Grove),
TBD
Girls
12/6 Cottage Grove Relays (Cottage Grove High School),
3:45 p.m.
12/20 Cottage Grove, North, Crater (Cottage Grove High School), 4:15 p.m.
1/17 Sheldon vs. Cottage Grove
Dual GSW Meet (Warren H Daught ery Aquatic Center), 3 p.m.
1/24 Cottage Grove vs. Marshfield
Dual GSW Meet (Mingus Park Pool), TBD
1/31 Ro seburg vs. Cottage Grove
Dual GSW Meet (Cottage Grove), 4 p.m.
SPRINGFIELD MILLERS
▪ Home meets: 1276 G St.
▪ Head coach: Josh Jordan, 11th year at Springfield
HISTORY
Last state championship was 2019 … Last state appearance was ‘23 … League titles: 2020 District girls champion; 2019 District girls champion; 2018 District girls champion; 2018 District combined champions.
CHEER from 8
TOP RETURNERS
Boys
▪ Seven Bolejack , So. … 2023
stats: 100 freestyle 10.10% pace at districts meet
▪ Aiden Hatfield , So. … 2023
stats: 100 backstroke 5.49% at districts meet
Girls
▪ Anh Roemen, Sr. … 2023 stats: Placed 6th in state in the 100-yard freestyle with 57.47. ▪ Returning swimmers: TBD
SCHEDULE
Boys
12/6 Relay Meet (Willamalane Pool), 3 p.m.
12/13 Springfield vs. North Eugene Dual BSW & GSW Meet (River Road Pool), 4:15 p.m.
12/20 Thurston vs. Springfield vs. South Eugene, TBD Note: More meets being scheduled
Girls
12/6 Sheldon vs. Springfield Dual GSW Meet (Willamalane Center (32nd & Main St.
12/13 Springfield vs. North Eugene Dual BSW & GSW Meet (River Road Pool), 4:15 p.m. Springfield) 4:15 p.m.
12/20 Thurston vs. Springfield vs. South Eugene, TBD Note: More meets being scheduled
THURSTON COLTS
▪ Home meets: 1276 G St. ▪ Head coach: Sarah Keim , 3rd year at Springfield
TOP RETURNERS
Boys
▪ Brody Wyatt , So. … 2023 stats: Placed 3rd in state in the 100m freestyle with a time of 49.41 and placed 2nd in state in the 100m back with a time of 53.93.
Girls
▪ Mckenzie Speldrich , Jr. … 2023 stats: Placed 1st in the 100m backstroke with a time of 1:11 at the Thurston vs. Grants Pass vs. Willamette meet.
▪ Returning swimmers : TBD
SCHEDULE
Boys & Girls
12/20 Thurston vs. Springfield vs. South Eugene 1/24 Thurston vs. Eagle Point vs. Ashland vs. North Eugene
ALL CAPSULES WRITTEN BY McKENZIE DAYS
osaa.org
YOUR OFFICIAL SOURCE FOR SCORES & RESULTS
*PHS Cheer team cheers at football, basketball, volleyball, and wrestling.
SPRINGFIELD MILLERS
▪ Head coach: TBD
▪ Schedule: N/A
▪ Note: SHS Cheer team cheers at football, basketball, volleyball, and wrestling.
THURSTON COLTS
▪ Head coach: Robin Erickson, 10th year at Thurston
▪ History: 11x Oregon state champions: 1991, 2001, ‘02, ‘03, ‘09, ‘13, ‘14, ‘15, ‘16, ‘19, ‘21, ‘23) … Four top-3 placements at USA Nationals.
ROSTER
▪ Aimelia Maisch, Jr.; Anabelle Lloyd, So.; Annabelle Robison, So.; Carly Tofflemoyer, So.; Haylee Nelson, Sr.; Jayleigh Clough, Sr.; Kairi Pham, Jr. Karina Machuca, Sr.; Liberty Spies, So.; Mackenzie Moore, Sr.; Madison Austin, Sr.; Madison Schaaf, Sr.; Makena Fredrickson, Jr.; Makena Smith, Jr.; Olivia Stoddard, Jr.; Sadie Anderson, Sr.
▪ Schedule: N/A
▪ Note: THS Cheer team cheers at football, basketball, volleyball, and wrestling.
COTTAGE GROVE LIONS
▪ Home matches: 1375 S. River Rd. ▪ Head coach: Charlie Kent , 1st year at Cottage Grove.
TOP RETURNERS
Boys
▪ Carter Bengtson, Sr., 138-lb weight class … 2023 stats: 6th at state championship.
▪ Jeffery Conklin, So., 120-Ib weight class … 2023 stats: 5th at state championship.
Girls
▪ Allison Palluck , Sr, 115-lb weight class … 2023 stats: Previous state champ in 2022-23.
▪ Returning wrestlers: TBD
Schedule
Boys
12/5 Tri-Dual (Pleasant Hill HS), 6 p.m.
12/7 Perry Burlison Invitational (Cascade High School), TBD
12/13-14 at Coast Classic (North Bend), TBD
12/20-21 at Grants Pass Winter Kick-Off (Grants Pass High School), 8 a.m.
1/7 SD 2 Duals (Creswell HS), 5:30 p.m.
1/11 Special District #2 Duals (Sweet Home High School), 9 a.m.
1/18 Nick Lutz Invitational (Siuslaw High School), TBD
1/21 Cottage Grove vs. Newport Dual BWR
Meet (Newport High School), 5p.m.
1/22 Novice Night (Harrisburg High School),
4:30 p.m.
1/23 Hidden Valley vs. Cottage Grove Dual BWR Meet (Cottage Grove High School), 6 p.m.
1/24-25 Bay City Duals (Marshfield High School), 11 a.m.
1/30 McArthur Court Duals (McArthur Court, U of O Eugene, TBD
1/31 Harrisburg JV Tournament (Harrisburg High School), TBD
2/7-8 Cottage Grove Invitational (Cottage Grove High School), 1 p.m.
2/12 Cottage Grove vs. Philomath Dual BWR
Meet (Philomath High School), TBD
Girls
1/7 Creswell Duals, 5:30 p.m.
1/21 Novice Night (Harrisburg High School),
4:30 p.m.
1/21 Cottage Grove vs. Newport Dual GWR
Meet (Newport High School), 5 p.m.
2/8 Cottage Grove Girls Invitational (Cottage Grove High School), TBD
2/14-15 Special District 2 Championship (Cottage Grove High School), TBD
CRESWELL BULLDOGS
Home matches: 33390 Niblock Ln.
Head coach: Jeff Cardwell , 3rd year at Creswell
TOP RETURNERS
Boys
▪ Lyosha Mitchell, Sr., 120-lb weight class … 2023 stats: 2x state place winner 21-13
▪ Maverick Wells, Jr., 170-lb weight class … 2023 stats: 4th at regionals 15-12
Girls
▪ Chantell Noffsinger, Sr., 145-lb weight class
… 2023 stats: 4th at state 25-4 record.
▪ Elia Mendonca, Jr., 145-Ib weight class … 2023 stats: 5th at regionals
▪ Paige Ledgerwood, Jr. … 2023 stats: 18-10, 5th at regionals
▪ Returning wrestlers: 21 wrestlers; coach says up to 12 freshmen could be on team.
PLEASANT HILL BILLIES
▪ Home matches: 84455 N. Enterprise Rd.
▪ Head coach: Dahn Nikitins , 27th year at Pleasant Hill
TOP RETURNERS
Boys
▪ Eli Anderson, Sr., 138-lb weight class
Girls
▪ Athena Sprague, Jr., 155-lb weight class
▪ Returning wrestlers : TBD
SCHEDULE
Boys
12/5 Tri-Dual (Pleasant Hill HS), 6 p.m.
12/7 Kenny Cox Tournament (Churchill High School), 9 a.m.
12/13-14 Culver Invitational (Culver High Sch ool), TBD
12/16 Tri-Dual (Pleasant Hill HS), 6 p.m.
12/19 Pleasant Hill vs. Banks Dual BWR Meet (Banks High School), 6 p.m.
1/4 King of the Hill Invitational (Pleasant Hill High School), 10 a.m
1/8 SD3 Duals (Coquille HS), 5:30 p.m.
1/14 SD3 Duals (Pleasant Hill High School), 4:30 p.m.
1/18 Nick Lutz Invitational (Siuslaw High School), TBD
1/25 SD3 Duals (North Valley High School) TBD
1/28 Elmira 4-way (Elmira HS), 4:00 p.m.
1/29 at SD3 Duals (Glide HS), 4:30 p.m.
2/7-8 at Cottage Grove Invitational (Cottage Grove High School), 1 p.m.
2/21-22 at SD 3 District Tournament (Coquille HS)
Girls
1/8 at Double Dual (Coquille/Bandon) 5:30 p.m.
1/28 at Elmira 4-way (Elmira), 4 p.m.
2/14-15 at Special District 2 Championship (Cottage Grove High School) TBD
SPRINGFIELD MILLERS
▪ Home matches: 875 7th St.
▪ Head coach: Chase Wells , 4th year at Springfield
TOP RETURNERS
Boys ▪ Bill Matheus , Jr., 132-lb weight class,
▪ Returning wrestlers: TBD
SCHEDULE
Boys
12/7 Kenny Cox Tournament, 9 a.m.
12/1 Junction City 4-Way Duals (Junction City), 6 p.m.
12/13 Warrior Classic (Philomath High School), TBD
12/14 Rick Herrin Holiday Classic (MKay), 9 a.m.
12/18 Churchill vs. Springfield Dual BWR Meet (Springfield) 6 p.m.
12/20 Coquille Holiday Send-off (Coquille / Bandon), noon
1/4 King of the Hill Invitational (Pleasant Hill High School), 10 a.m.
1/10 Sutherlin Duals (Sutherlin High School), 4 p.m.
1/15 Springfield vs. Thurston Dual BWR Meet (Thurston High School), 6 p.m.
1/23 North Eugene 3-way (N. Eugene), 6 p.m.
1/31 Tod Surmon Tournament (W. Albany), 9 a.m.
2/1 Junction City Boys Tournament (Junction City High School), TBD Girls
12/7 Kenny Cox Tournament (Churchill) 9 a.m.
12/11 Junction City 4-Way Duals (Junction City High School), 6 p.m.
12/18 Churchill vs. Springfield Dual GWR Meet (Springfield) 6 p.m.
12/20 Coquille Holiday Send-off, (Coquille/ Bandon) noon
12/28 Junction City Girls (Junction City), 10 a.m.
1/10 Sutherlin Duals (Sutherlin High School), 4 p.m.
1/15 Springfield vs. Thurston Dual GWR Meet (Thurston), 6 p.m.
THURSTON COLTS
▪ Home matches: 333 58th St.
▪ Head coach: Mike Simons , 22nd year at Thurston
HISTORY
The boys team is coming off of back-to-back OSAA 2nd-place finishes from 2023 and ‘24. … The boys team has brought home a state trophy in seven consecutive years. … The girls team is defending their 2024 state championship. … The girls program has won five team state titles in the past eight years, with two second-place finishes as well. … The boys and girls program have combined for 37 individual state champions and 174 overall state placers since 1974.
TOP RETURNERS
Boys
▪ Michael Salas Sanchez , So. … 2023 stats: OSAA 2nd place 106 lbs.
▪ Truman Winningham , So. … 2023 stats: OSAA 6th place 106 lbs.
▪ Mason Hakki, Sr. … 2023 stats: OSAA 2nd place 113 lbs.
▪ Jaxon Harada, Jr. … 2023 stats: OSAA 6th
Sean Regas , Sr. … 2023
OSAA 2nd place 132 lbs. ▪ Holton Halstead, Sr. … 2023 stats: 3x State placer OSAA 3rd place 138 lbs.
▪ Colton Annis , Sr. … 2023 stats: 3x State Placer OSAA State Champion.
▪ Jaden Ellis, Sr. … 2023 stats: 2x State placer OSAA 5th place.
▪ Kamdyn
Izabella Castleberry, Jr. … 2023 stats: OSAA State
▪ Returning wrestlers: 17
SCHEDULE
Boys 12/7 Kenny Cox Tournament (Churchill) 9 a.m. 12/13-14 Rose City Tournament (Westview HS), 9 a.m.
12/18 Thurston vs. Harrisburg Dual BWR Meet (Harrisburg High School), 6 p.m.
12/21 LaMont Simons Dual Tournament (Thurston High School), 10 a.m.
12/27-2 8 NW Dual Tournament (West Albany) 9 a.m.
1/9 Thurston vs. Crater Dual BWR Meet (Crater), 6 p.m.
1/10 Earl Gillis Invitational (Newberg), 4 p.m.
1/15 Springfield vs. Thurston Dual BWR Meet (Thurston), 6 p.m.
1/17-18 Oregon Wrestling Classic (Redmond), 8 a.m.
1/22 Novice Night (Harrisburg High School), 4:30 p.m.
1/22 West Albany vs. Thurston Dual BWR Meet (Thurston), 6 p.m.
1/24-25 Resers Tournament (Liberty), 9 a.m. 1/29 Roseburg vs. Thurston Dual BWR Meet (Thurston), 6 p.m.
1/31 Tod Surmon Tournament (West Albany), 9 a.m.
2/6 Thurston vs. Eagle Point Dual BWR Meet (Eagle Point), 7 p.m.
Girls
12/7 Kenny Cox Tournament (Churchill), 9 a.m.
12/14 War of the Roses Tournament (Westview HS), 9 a.m.
12/18 Thurston vs. Harrisburg Dual GWR Meet (Harrisburg High School), 6 p.m.
12/21 LaMont Simons Dual Tournament (Thurston High School), 10 a.m.
12/27-28 NW Dual Tour. (W. Albany), 9 a.m.
1/4 Sutherlin Girls Tour. (Sutherlin), 9 a.m. 1/9 Thurston vs. Crater Dual GWR Meet (Crater), 6 p.m.
1/10 Lady Dragon Dual Tour. (Dallas) 3 p.m.
1/11 Lady Dragon Dual Tour. (Dallas), 9 a.m.
1/15 Springfield vs. Thurston Dual GWR Meet (Thurston), 6 p.m.
1/17-18 Oregon Wrestling Classic (Redmond), 8 a.m.
1/22 Novice Night (Harrisburg High School), 4:30 p.m.
1/22 West Albany vs. Thurston Dual BWR Meet (Thurston), 6 p.m.
1/31 Tod Surmon Tournament (W. Albany), 9 a.m. 2/6 Thurston vs. Eagle Point Dual BWR Meet (Eagle Point), 7 p.m.
2/22
BOYS & GIRLS SWIMMING
BOYS & GIRLS WRESTLING
Colts coach Mike Simons