Athletic director previews fall sports, Hawk’s Nest opening and watches OSAA reclassification

Athletic Director Ade Taylor updated the board Aug. 21 on fall sports participation, facility openings and pending OSAA reclassification work that could change league alignments next year. Taylor said more than 200 students are participating in six fall sports; football had more than 40 boys at daily doubles and the program expects to field two teams. Girls’ soccer, boys’ soccer, volleyball, cross country and cheer each reported active rosters, with several sports fielding three teams.

Taylor announced the district’s new press box, dubbed the Hawk’s Nest, will open for the Aug. 29 home football game and said admission will be free that night; donations collected will be given to the United Way to support Rowena fire relief. The athletic department is also leading a push to establish and publicize core athletic values for the district — summarized as hard work, accountability, “we is greater than me,” knowledge and sportsmanship — following OSAA‑led sportsmanship training for students and coaches.

Taylor and several board members discussed OSAA reclassification work. Taylor said the statewide classification system is considering moving from six classes to five and that the district, currently on the larger end of 4A, is monitoring proposals that could affect travel and competitive balance; he said he will coordinate testimony and talking points for public comment as the OSAA takes input and prepares recommendations. Board members urged caution about long travel and schedule impacts that can affect student eligibility and instruction time.

No formal action was taken; board members applauded staff and encouraged public testimony on reclassification proposals if they affect district travel or competitive balance.