Mark Morris, on the other hand, graduates nine seniors and has coach Bill Bakamus’ greenest squad in 28 years. Jack Shipley is the lone all-league returner, but coaches around the league know better than to discount the Monarchs just yet.
“Bill will find a way,” Long said. “This isn’t one of his stronger teams but he’ll coach them up, they’ll run his stuff and they’ll be hard to beat.”
Ridgefield, too, will be a stiff challenge. With three all-league selections back and a pair of key transfers, the Spudders could make their first regional appearance since 2012.
Hockinson lost two of its top players to injury in Peyton Brammer and Sawyer Racanelli, which “changes the landscape,” Ridgefield coach Jason Buffum said.
Washougal, coming off an historic football run, has the leadership and athleticism needed to be competitive. R.A. Long is undersized but several coaches noted the Lumberjacks’ improvement this offseason. Woodland enters a new era with Jesse Buck as coach and Tyler Flanagan no longer running the point for the Beavers.
Projected finish
Picks by Columbian sports staff
1. Columbia River — They won’t be as dominant as last year, but the Chieftains are still really good.
2. Ridgefield — Keep an eye on Jason Buffum’s Spudders; this team has the depth to make a run.
3. Mark Morris — Despite the massive turnover, coach Bill Bakamus always keeps his squad competitive.
4. Washougal — The athleticism and size of this group will keep AJ Labree’s side competitive.
5. Hockinson — Despite the injuries to Peyton Brammer and Sawyer Racanelli, Hawks will compete for a playoff spot.
6. R.A. Long — Most coaches around the league say the Lumberjacks are on the rise.
7. Woodland — New coach Jesse Buck might need a year to get Beavers back on track.
