Coach Kevin Dixon (30+) is in his second year at St. Mary’s and is excited for the upcoming season. St. Mary’s was 13-13 last year. Finishing 8-3 with 3 loses to top 5 teams Cascade Christian twice and Dayton in the first round of the 3A playoffs. St. Mary’s returns All Defensive Player of the Year Jr. Trey Foster (6’5), Soph. Nathan Sternenberg (6’2), senior Gavin Rajagopal (6’0) and Sr. Jake Reynolds (5”10). St. Mary’s will have newcomers Jr. Iyan Hirstov (5’8), Jr. Josh Banton(5’11), Jr. Francis Okeyia (6’2) and Senior Cody Conner (5”11). Conner missed his whole Junior year because of an injury. All of these players will make a real impact on the program. Coach Dixon stated, "the one thing I like is our depth. We have 22 Soph. and Jr’s. in the program, which provides a lot of depth and competition at practice." Coach Dixon feels, "the New league (Far West) will be more competitive with 3 teams dropping down from the 4A to the 3A level. My top pick would Be Sutherlin. They have a lot of good players returning and they will be a tough team to beat in our league. Next I would pick Cascade Christian, Coach Morse teams are always tough and they will get better as the year progresses, especially after they get all their football players return." When asked about what it will take to be successful, Coach Dixon responded, "we will need a few games under our belt to see how well we adjust to each other. I believe we will be able to compete with anyone in our league. The main thing that I see as our next step is to be a better defensive team. Our New assistant coach Kim Horn (30+ years) will be our defensive coach." St. Mary's will be an exciting team to watch with 4 exchange students from London, England and they are excited for the upcoming season and for the new 3A Far West league.
