Outlaws return only five to varsity football squad

A handful of players return to the varsity football squad this year, including seniors Korbin Sharp, Joel Miller, Matt Harris, Taylor Fendall, and Ethan Martin.

Sharp is an all-league returning player and is one of the Outlaws' best athletes and leaders, and will play defensive back and wide receiver. He stands at 5 feet 11 inches, weighs in at 185 pounds, and according to Coach Neil Fendall, he is the hardest working player on the team, both mentally and physically. He's expected to be one of the top players in the Oregon West League this year.

Miller was also an all-league player last season and returns as an offensive and defensive lineman. He's 5 feet 10 inches, 300 pounds; he's big, low to the ground and quick for his size. He loves contact and is tough to block.

Harris is a very physical, aggressive linebacker and will play on the offensive and defensive line (6 feet and 190 pounds). He was an honorable-mention all-leaguer last year as a junior. Matt is one of the Outlaws' most consistent players.

Fendall, a 5-feet-9-inch, 190-pound junior, will run the offense from the quarterback position and will also play at outside linebacker. When injuries hit the Outlaws last season, Fendall stepped in as the starting quarterback. Coach Fendall noted that Taylor has an excellent knowledge of the Outlaws' scheme and a solid ability to get the ball to play-makers. His speed and strength have improved dramatically over the off-season, which will be an added bonus this year.

Martin (senior) returns as one of the Outlaws most experienced players and will play on the offensive line and at linebacker. At 6 feet 2 inches and 190 pounds, Ethan is a very tough player and has continued to improve his game each season.

Ben Johnson (senior) transferred to Sisters this past summer. Fendall said that Ben is the only new player to the team who has already shown he will be a major contributor. Ben looks to be one of the Outlaws' top athletes and fastest players.

Fendall told The Nugget that the coaching staff doesn't have all the starting positions nailed down and has yet to complete the final varsity roster.

"We will wait and see how everybody else plays," said Fendall.

The coach added, "Our team is gelling as good as I've seen a group do so. They are quite persistent with their concentration and work ethic. We are small in numbers, but big in heart. The kids take pride in being Ironmen and playing every rep. The thing we've seen about this group is they are ALL IN together. I believe they will have a great season because of the way they practice and prepare. It is a very fun group to coach, and they have reminded us daily what high school football is about. I'm looking forward to watching these kids play on Friday nights!"