Rainer finished last season with an overall record of 22-7, 16-0 in LCL League and ranked #3 OSAA. The Columbians graduated three seniors including All State Desirae Hansen (Portland State).
Below Head Coach Doug Knox completed a Q&A about the upcoming season. He talks about his thoughts on the brand new, returning players and more!
What are your thoughts on your new league?
I like the idea of mixing it up but I don't like the idea of Rainier to Taft trip, especially on a week night. I think Clatskanie would say the same. I think there are a lot closer teams to us and a few closer teams to them that could have been a better fit for travel. I think football did it right with larger leagues, 6/6 split, it will be different playing each team 3 times in league.
Which players are you leaning on to carry your team this year?
This might be the first time in my career that I don't really have a go to player. I like the fact that we're really balanced and any one player could have a good night. I look for Hannah Farrell and Reese Schimmel to be good scorers for us.
One word that defines your team? why?
Gritty! Not one of them is afraid to get in there and do what it takes to make the team successful. (Hit the boards, loose ball, lock down defense, etc.
What’s your team goal?
I think we're going to spend several games trying to find an identity. When you lose someone like Desirae Hansen you have to find someone or several someones to fill that void. I think this team will gel well, it just might take a little longer for them to get used to each other. Our goal every year is to compete in every game we play, try to put ourselves in a position to play for the District title, and make it to the state playoffs.