Falcons Baseball Overcomes Sluggish Start and Spring Weather

As the early season was a frustrating mix of bus accidents, weather cancellations and struggling play, the Elmira baseball team spent Spring Break at the Madras baseball tournament.

Before that however, the Falcons face off with Creswell and reaped an 8-2 victory.  Ayden Wolgamott was the star of the day pitching 4 and a third innings and only surrendering 2 runs.  He also dominated at the plate getting 3 hits on the day.

Ayden Wolgamott slides into second on a steal attempt in a game vs Hidden Valley earlier this year.
 Photo by Michelle Ossowski

A final road trip before the break saw Elmira facing off against 2A Walport, where the Falcons became the power station, unleashing home runs in the game as Elmira crushed Walport 14-2.  Gavin Parker, Cobyn Herbert, and Blake Wigham all launched bombs, with Wigham collecting 5 RBIs on 3 hits.  All of the offense supported a workmanlike victory for Hunter Stockinger, who gave up only 2 runs. The victory raised the Falcons' record to  3-1 on the season.

Then, a strong dose of reality was doled out by tiny 3A Taft High school, leveling a humbling 15-0 beat down on Elmira, holding them to two hits.

"They were really good," Herbert commented in a conversation later.  Taft record is deceptive then because they are 3-5 at press time.  So dominate was their victory however,  that it was shortened after reaching the 5th inning with a 10 run or more lead.

With one of their games cancelled by weather yet again, the Falcons had only two more games to recover from the Taft blitzkrieg.  Playing host Madras, Elmira rallied for 3 runs in the bottom of the 7th for a scintillating 8-7 win.

The following game is somewhat inexplicable on multiple fronts.  McLoughlin stormed out to a commanding 11-6 lead after 4 and half innings.  Then the wheels came off for the 4A Pioneers as McLoughlin pitching was in a magnanimous mood, offering 13 walks, combined with 9 doubles by the Falcons.  The result was an electrifying 13 run bottom of the 7th and a ridiculous 24-11 rout of the Pioneers.  It is a game that the Falcons know they got away with one.

"We played pretty sloppy," Herbert lamented.

Elmira will host the Sutherlin Bulldogs from the 3A-5 Far West League on Wednesday April 3... weather permitting. 

Mixed results on 2019 Boys Hoops Campaign

"I know our boys are disappointed that we didn’t make one of the playoff spots," said Falcon's head basketball coach Nick Garman in and email.  "But I’m not disappointed in them at all."  Garman's enthusiasm on a 9-13 (3-7 in the 4A Sky-Em conference) was based on the Falcons previous year.  

"We were 0-10 in league the year before and we really only returned three kids off that team," Garman explained.  "So we started over in a way and finished 9-13 overall, a pretty dramatic improvement."

Starting Falcons' center, 6-7 Jacob Marr towers above Junction City opponents for a rebound in Elmira's game against the Tigers Tuesday, February 5 at Elmira High School.  Photo by Michelle Ossowski.

The 2019-20 version of the Falcons will move on without starting point guard Paul Ossowski, and loose some length with the graduations of Keegan Cook and Jaden Palmer.  Also moving on will be sixth man  Riley Chambers.

There is evidence that the progress made this season will not be a one season aberration.  Starters Christian Davis and Jacob Marr return this year.  Davis showed flashes of devastating offense but also had periods where his shot abandoned him.  Defensively he is long and aggressive.  Marr will be a junior and with a year of being a starter in the rugged Sky-Em conference, he will be ready to up his game which at times seemed unstoppable.  However, the 6-7 sophomore needed work defensively and sometimes struggled against offensively versatile centers.

Junior wing Christian Davis scores against two defenders in the Falcons' victory over the Vikings, Tuesday February 12.
Photo by Michelle Ossowski

Others playing a key role next year will be Gannon Harpole, 6-5 Cobyn Herbert, Mason Smart and Keaton Warner, as well as JV players Jacob Admire and Josiah Hernandez.

6-5 sophomore Cobyn Herbert battles two Siuslaw defenders for a rebound in the Falcons' 23 point blow out Tuesday February 12. Photo by Michelle Ossowski

The real revelation of the season was the ascension of Bryson Forsman during the last third of the season.  Not big or long, Forsman nonetheless became a vital scoring weapon for the Falcons down the stretch including a 25 point outburst in a victory against Junction City.  It will be interesting to see how coach Garman utilizes him next year.  Forsman's real contribution was an almost frenetic and fearless energy.  Smaller than most front liners, Forsman would courageously take forays into the paint, attacking the opponent's rim.  He also has a competent outside game to complement his aggression and, despite his size, he is a frustrating defender. 

Bryson Forsman shoots a three pointer off a screen by Riley Chambers in Elmira's big win over Siuslaw, Tuesday, February 12 at Elmira High School.  

"It probably seemed like Bryson did come out of nowhere," Garman commented.  "But that was mainly due to a lingering illness that kept him out of most of the first two weeks of the season. He then had to play catch-up in a couple of ways. One, he had to get in basketball shape and was two weeks behind in some ways and two, he had to learn our system and style of play as a transfer kid. He is an excellent penetrator, a decent three-point shooter and an above average pull-up jump shooter. He improved a lot defensively and is an excellent rebounder, especially for his size. He is a pretty tenacious kid. 

All this portends an even more successful season for Elmira Hoops in 2020.

Soaring Falcons are Grounded by Marist

The magic carpet ride that was flying into the conference schedule for  Elmira's football team was brought to earth in the most guttural way, as Marist Catholic managed to snuff out a Falcon offense that came in to the game as the #3 scoring team in 4A, as the Spartans defeated  then #4 ranked Elmira 15-2.

"We could have won this game," head coach Justin Peeler said as he came off the field.  This could be an enormous understatement.  Peeler was looking back at the squandered opportunities that Elmira left on the field.  Four times the Falcons had the ball inside the Marist red zone; three of those were inside the Spartan's 5 yard line.  On all of those drives, the Falcons were turned away, as they failed to score an offensive touchdown for the first time this year.

Elmira's sophomore quarterback Cobyn Herbert (17) fires a pass under heavy pressure from a defender in the first quarter of the Falcons' 15-2 defeat to Marist, Friday September 21 at Swartz Field.  Photo by Kimberly Lillie

The contest was a defensive slug fest with quarterbacks paying the price.  Passing was a premium for both teams, though Marist QB Joey Laing did manage to connect on a 40 yard pass and the Spartans' halfback Hagen Stephenson connected on a 35 yard option pass.  Both strikes led to both of Marist's touchdowns, a 2 yard touchdown by Hayden Loboy, and a 3 yard run by Laing.  However, the Elmira defense came to play and did their job, pressuring Laing all night, registering 5 sacks and a safety from a holding penalty in the end zone which closed the score to 7-2 in the second period.  The Elmira defense held the Marist offense to under 200 yards.  The Falcons defense was led by Alex Head who rung up 7 tackles on the night.

Elmira running back Ryan Imelm (33) catches a pass in the soft spot of the Marist defensive zone early in the first half of the Spartans' 15-2 win over the Falcons Friday September 21 at Swartz Field.  Photo by Kimberly Lillie

In like manner, the Marist defense dismantled the Falcon offense, punishing Elmira quarterbacks with 8 sacks on the day, usually at the most inopportune moments of the game.  Starting quarterback Cobyn Herbert was workmanlike in passing 8 of 15 for 81 yards.  However, Herbert injured his knee late in the first half while the Falcons were still inside the Marist 5 yard line.  Back up quarterback Wolfgang Marsalis came on and was immediately sacked by Marist and the drive was thwarted.  Marsalis' night was miserable, throwing 2 for 9 and a meager 4 yards while absorbing 5 sacks the rest of the way and failing to show the  kind of foot speed that Herbert has shown that propelled the offense this season .  This changed the complexion of the Falcons offense, which failed to threaten Marist significantly afterwards.

Falcon defenders Blake Wigham (28) and Bryce Sawyer (20) combine on tackling Marist tailback Hayden Loboy during the Spartan's 15-2 victory over Elmira Friday September 21 at Swartz Field.  Photo by Kimberly Lillie

Herbert's knee injury could mean a decision for Peeler between the established backup Marsalis and the faster Rowdy Ramirez, who got quarterback time earlier this year in a mop up role at Suislaw.  The diagnosis and prognosis of Herbert's injury was not available at press time.

The Falcons have the opportunity to get both healthy and back into the win column as they host bottom dwelling Junction City for homecoming this Friday, September 28 at Swartz Field.

Falcons Take Flight in Win over Philomath; Soar to #4 in 4A

For two consecutive weeks, the Elmira offense was predicated on a strong rushing game with Brady Nagel carrying the bulk of the offensive responsibility and Head Coach Justin Peeler keeping sophomore quarterback Cobyn Herbert on a gradual learning curve.  However, Philomath's strong defensive line necessitated that the young Falcon needed to leave the nest.  The results were profound.

With Nagel held to only 54 yards,  the 6-4 Herbert was loosed on the Philomath secondary,  throwing 3 touchdown passes, two to Bryson Forsman, while the Elmira defense forced 4 turnovers as the Falcons flew to an 18-7 victory over the previously undefeated Warriors.

Herbert was 15 for 26, 223 yards without an interception.

"We knew they were going to blitz a lot and force us to pass," Peeler explained in an email.  "It was nice to see the passing game be successful."

Quarterback Cobyn Herbert throws to a wide open Brady Nagel in the second quarter of the Falcons' 18-7 victory over Philomath, Friday September 14 at Swartz Field.  Photo:  Brad Fuqua/Philomath Express

While Forsman was the beneficiary of 2 scores, it was Rowdy Ramirez who joined Herbert in the coming out party for the Falcon passing attack.  Ramirez caught 7 passes for 129 yards and a touchdown.

"Rowdy had a great game and was excited for him," Peeler said.  "He is a very hard working player and I love to coach him."

While the passing offense was thrilling for Falcon fans, it was the defense that carried the day.  Against a very effective offensive line that ground out 192 physical yards, the defense used timely turnovers and an epic goal line stand at the end of the first half to win the day.  Elmira registered three fumble recoveries, an interception by Bryce Sawyer, and three sacks on the night.

Gavin Parker hits Philomath quarterback Calvin Snuggerud during the Falcons' 18-7 win over the Warriors, Friday September 14 at Swartz Field.  Photo:  Brad Fuqua/Philomath Express

With Philomath trailing 12-7 late in the second quarter, the Warriors drove the ball to the Falcons' 5 yard line.  There with 4 opportunities, Elmira's defense bowed its back and held the visitors out of the end zone, the fourth down attempt coming with only 5 seconds remaining in the half.  The Falcons scored on the opening drive of the second half and controlled the game from that point forward. 

"The defense was amazing last night," praised Peeler.  "We rallied to the ball very well.  We did get tired, but they really pushed through and got the job done.  They wanted the win and they took it away from them."

Elmira's Bryce Sawyer steps in front of Philomath's Brooks Stearns for
an interception in the fourth quarter of the Falcons' 18-7 win, Friday September 14 at Swartz Field.
 Photo: Brad Fuqua/Philomath Express

Elmira finds themselves in rarefied air, ranked 4th in 4A by the OSAA ahead of Cottage Grove, Marshfield and Marist Catholic.  The league schedule begins next Friday night, September 21 at Swartz Field as the Falcons host Marist, who find themselves on a two game losing streak.  Both Marshfield and Cottage Grove have also absorbed losses this year. 

"Now the grind starts," Peeler opined.  "I am feeling better about going into these games with some good tests.  In years past, our non-league has been very weak.  Marist is tough, but they are on a losing streak right now.  We need to jump on them early and get their confidence down.  Cottage Grove loss was a shocker.  We will see how they are.  They have a lot of new faces, but are well coached."

   

Nagel Leads Falcons over #15 North Valley

Christmas came early to Head Coach Justin Peeler and his Elmira Falcons in the form of an extra home game.  Rumored for days, the contest between North Valley  and the Falcons was moved to Swartz Field because of heavy smoke in the Grants Pass area due to wild fires that have plagued the Cascades for weeks.  Relieved of the 2 and half hour convoy down, the Falcons climbed on Brady Nagel shoulders to win a wild 31-28 thriller of then #15 North Valley Friday September 7. 

Receiver Bryson Forsman battles a North Valley defender for a 30 yard reception in the Falcons' 31-28 win Friday September 7.  Photo: Kimberly Lillie

Nagel rushed for 162 yards and 4 touchdowns.  Cobyn Herbert added 60 yards to the potent Elmira ground game as well as blocking a punt that was returned for a touchdown for the second consecutive week. 

"He is fast off the ball and very long," Peeler said of Herbert.  "He just seems to have a nose for the ball."

Sophomore Cobyn Herbert (17) blocks a punt for the second consecutive week.  It was returned by Gavin Parker (11) for a touchdown in the Falcons' 31-28 victory over North Valley Friday September 7 at Swartz Field.  Photo: Kimberly Lillie.

Herbert's block seemed to put the Falcons in control in late in the third period extending the lead to 24-14.  However, Toren Tuttle rallied the Knights with a 14 yard touchdown pass to Elijah Colas, closing the lead to three.  Nagel then ripped off a 54 yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter to return the lead to 11.  Tuttle rebounded North Valley again driving the Knights late in the game and connecting with Colas for a second touchdown with only 32 seconds remaining.  Colas' 2 point conversion tightened the score to 31-28.  Only a recovery of an on-side kick finally sealed the victory for the Falcons. 

The Falcons' offensive line was stellar against a formidable North Valley D-line, rushing for 229 yards and allowing Elmira to build its lead on Nagel TD runs of 28, 2, and 2 yards. 

"The line is getting better every week," Peeler commented.  "We still need some work on it but we will get there.  Brady had some great vision on the outside runs."

Bryce Sawyer moves up field on a 39 yard kick return in Elmira's 31-28 victory over North Valley, Friday September 7 at Swartz Field.  Photo: Kimberly Lillie

Interestingly enough, the win left the Falcons 2-0 and tied in the OSAA rankings at #8 with their next opponent, Philomath.  The gamer will be Friday night September 14 at Swartz Field.

Elmira Opens 2018 with a Bang, Demolishing Suislaw

When asked about the difficult road ahead with three teams in the top five rankings in the 4A-Sky Em Conference, Head Coach Justin Peeler felt like his young, inexperienced Elmira Falcons would be ready for the opening game of the 2018 season against Suislaw.  Peeler may have underestimated his team.

With the Falcons scoring in every conceivable ways on both sides of the ball and the Elmira's defensive line bullying the hapless Suislaw offensive line, Peeler's team raced out to a 28-0 first quarter lead and never looked back, punishing the Vikings 74-6 at Suislaw High School in Florence, Friday August 31.

Viking's quarterback Elijah Blankenship was like a lamb led to slaughter.  The diminutive Suislaw QB was constantly running for his life from a relentless pass rush led by Cobyn Herbert, who led the team in tackles with 4 and registered the only sack of the night.  The pursuit of Blankenship was so vexing that there never seemed a play when Viking passes weren't under extreme duress, rolling out of the pocket and throwing desperately out of bounds. Blankenship was only 6-18 passing for 43 yards and one touchdown.  Blankenship was intercepted three times including a pick six by the Falcons' Rowdy Ramirez that made the score 49-0.

Suislaw quarterback scrambles away from a heavy rush by Elmira defenders Cobyn Herbert (17) and Ryan Imel (33) during the Falcon's 74-6 rout of the Vikings.  Photo by Stan Pusieski/ExplodingWhaleSports.com

In contrast to Blankenship's nightmare, it was the first start for Herbert at quarterback.  Throwing sparingly but efficiently, he was 3 for 4 for 43 yards and two touchdown passes.  Herbert also blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown as well.  Herbert, the 6-4, 195 pound sophomore,  has the confidence of his coach.

"He is a gamer," Peeler said in an email.  "He steps it up a whole level when he steps onto the field for games."

Abundantly clear, early in the game, was that Elmira's defensive line had so thoroughly demoralized the Vikings, that the game lost all sense of competitiveness by midway through the second quarter.  Elmira's huge halftime lead led officials to run the clock on the "mercy rules", without stopping the clock for out of bounds and first downs for the entire second half. 

"Overall, the defense stepped up and dominated the game for us," Peeler commented in an email.

In the wreckage of the aftermath, Elmira could count 5 turnovers forced, holding the opponent to 161 yards and just over 3 yards a play, while accumulating 480 yards and 8 offensive touchdowns.  If there was a flaw in the performance it would point to the 12 penalties for 119 yards.  However, Gavin Laing came off the JV bench to bolt 70 yards for the final score of the night to salve any tarnish from the officials.

"He is special," Peeler said of Laing, "but we want to give him one year of JV.  He will see minutes, hopefully, every week on Varsity.  He has the potential to be a great running back."

The next game is another road game own south at North Valley on Friday at 7pm. Victory in the out of league contest promises to be a more daunting accomplishment for the Falcons.

"This will be a better test as to who we are as a team," noted Peeler.  "They are big and physical.  We need to dominate their line to win this game."

The game will be replayed at 4pm Sunday afternoon by KOCF, 92.5 FM.