Mount Hood

Hannah Greene finds semi-pro success with CFC Atletica

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

Hannah Greene, a junior Spanish major, began playing soccer at 3-years-old. Right from the start, she fell in love with it.

“There was no trying to get me to do other things,” said Greene. “They put me in ballet, and I got kicked out … I couldn’t just sit there and move my arms. And gymnastics — I got kicked out of too … I had to have soccer.”

Looking to play for a semi-pro team, she began searching for ones in the area; she found that Capital Fútbol Club Atletica, a team under the Northwest Premier League Soccer, was holding tryouts in March. So, she contacted the one in charge and was invited to try out.

In late April, Greene found out she made the starting team. Although she hasn’t been on the roster long, she already loves it.

“So far on this team, I’ve loved every second and I honestly hate having to leave practice, because I have so much fun out there,” said Greene. “All the girls are so welcoming … but they’re also such good players and want to get better, so it makes the whole atmosphere a prize to be around.”

Making this semi-pro team was another step in the right direction for Greene, as she hopes to continue on with soccer in life.

“I would love to get into the Women’s Premier Soccer League and play there, and obviously my end goal is to go pro,” Greene said.

But as of right now, making the CFC Atletica team not only proved her skill and likeliness to continue on with the sport, but it also proved her abilities to those who have doubted her before. After sustaining an injury while playing at Ventura College, she had an experience that almost ruined soccer for her.

“I was only going to be out for a short time, but I overheard (my coach) basically telling the other coach that I was worthless. And that completely crushed my soul, so I was done for a little bit,” said Greene. After that, it’s been a struggle to just get back into the game. She began playing for Western’s Club Sports team to try and find her passion and have fun with the sport again. She found that being in this environment with no pressure helped tremendously with her skills, preparing her to try out for a semi-pro team.

Greene’s next game with CFC Atletica will be away, against Thurston County United Soccer on May 18.

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photos by Caity Healy

Spring Intramural leaderboard: The top teams of each sport

Softball:

 

Co-Rec Sunday Night League

Broke Bat Mountain 4-0

Benchwarmers 3-1

Always Going Deep 3-1

Swingers 2-1

Misfits 2-2

Masterbatterz 1-2

Dunder Mifflin Inc. 0-4

Wait for it…. 0-4

 

Co-Rec Thursday Evening League

Basic Pitches 2-0

Soft balls 2-1

The One Hit Wonders 1-1

Bad Apples 1-2

Rolling Bunts 0-2

 

Men’s Monday Evening League

Opihi Lickahz 2-0

Rippin Magoos 1-1

Dirty Ball Bags 1-1

Blue Ballers 0-2

 

Soccer:

 

Co-Rec Tuesday/Thursday Evenings

Los Linguistas 3-0

Look ma, no hands 1-0

Head Game Strong 1-1

Your Goalie’s Nightmare 1-1

Dunder Miffln 1-2

Grace & The Funky Bunch 1-2

Team World 0-2

 

Volleyball:

 

Co-Rec Competitive

Killah Hawaiians 5-0

Bumpin’ 2-2

Meow Down 2-3

Wait for it…. 0-4

 

Co-Rec Recreational Monday/Tuesday Evenings

Incomprehensibilities 5-0

Scott’s Tots 5-1

Work for sets 2-4

I’d hit that 0-4

 

Co-Rec Recreational Wednesday/Thursday Evenings

The Agents 3-2

Spiked Tea 2-2

S.S.F.F.F.A.F.F. 0-4

NO VOLLEYBALL FINAL 0-0

 

Men’s/Women’s

Joey’s Men’s VB Team 4-1

Ball Busters 3-2

Bumping balls 2-2

Meet the Blockers 2-3

Mas Hits 1-4

Meet your Western Oregon Rugby Pacific Coast All-Stars: Caver and Treat

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

It began on April 13, as four Men’s Rugby players took to the pitch after being invited to try out for the Pacific Coast All-Star team: Joey Caver, Matt Cornish, Kai Segundo and Trever Kahunahana. After Caver had been pulled aside and asked to join the team on the spot, the three others patiently awaited to hear whether or not they had performed at the level the coaches were wanting. May 1 was the day they’d hear the news, but before they could, another player was met with a surprise.

On April 29, senior Alex Treat was asked if he wanted to join the All-Star team. He wasn’t one of the original four invited to try out, so when he was contacted, he didn’t exactly see it coming.

“From what I gathered, they were watching film on some of the other guys, and while they were watching film they saw me playing … and then they decided they wanted me on the team,” said Treat. “I got a text from the head coach, and basically he said ‘hey we want you on our team. We want you to come play with us in Houston.”

Upon receiving the news that he was now an All-Star, he couldn’t help but feel eager.

“I was incredibly excited. I felt very honored to be selected and to go and perform,” said Treat. “I kind of thought my season was done, but I’m glad it’s not.”

On May 1, after weeks of waiting, the names of who would be on the team were released — out of the four Wolves who tried out, Caver was the single name presented to represent Western, with Treat added on, as well. Now, they’re preparing for what’s to come.

“I am running and working out, doing drills, practicing some skills stuff — just trying any way I can to be in the best shape possible to perform,” said Treat.

On May 11, Caver and Treat will be flying out to San Diego for a rugby camp. There, they’ll get to know their new teammates and learn how they play, as well as how their coach wants the team structured.

“I’m nervous, but I’m more excited than nervous. I’ve been training for this since I started playing rugby, and I’m just happy for the opportunity to go out and play … I couldn’t have gotten here without my teammates,” said Treat.

Catch the two in action on May 23, as they’re heading to Houston, Texas for the All-Star tournament.

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photo by Caity Healy

Athlete Profile: Staying on track with Rachel Bayly

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

“It’s such an integral part of my life, and I don’t know how it got to that point. I can’t imagine my life without sports,” said Rachel Bayly. A cross-country and track athlete in her junior year as a Wolf, Bayly has been involved in some sport — either cross country, track or basketball, and at times, all three — her entire life. So accustomed to that setting as part of her everyday life, it altered the way she experienced her time her at Western.

“Coming here … the team was such a family. So it made that transition to college so much easier,” commented Bayly.

But on top of the close-knit community she built with those around her each day, it changed her college experience in other ways, too.

“It teaches me time-management,” said Bayly. “It’s just this understanding that … I’m going to go to school but I’m also going to take on this other thing.”

Bayly grew up in Moscow, Idaho. A small town with a population around 25,000, according to census.gov. Although there’s often an idea that small towns leave teens with nothing to do, Bayly always kept herself busy.

“I was a three-sport athlete back in high school,” said Bayly. “So, definitely a lot going on. There was a one-day break between cross-country and basketball. I was always going.”

Aside from athletics, Bayly maintained a full schedule.

“My mom owns a daycare back in Moscow, so I worked at the daycare … So I’d get out of school, go and pick kids up from elementary school, take them back, do homework with them, then I’d go to practice,” said Bayly.

Any free time that Bayly came across usually happened during the summer. When she had it, she took advantage of it.

“There’s not a lot to do in Moscow,” explained Bayly. “But I’d go downtown with friends. I have a lot of family in Moscow … so weekends with family, barbecues and stuff like that.”

The small town charm that Bayly found with Moscow actually played a part in why she ended up coming to Western.

“Monmouth reminded me of Moscow. The farm fields all around, the trees… it’s really nice,” said Bayly. She also added that she came here because, “it was kind of the size of the school I was looking for … and then also the fact that the coach asked me to run on the cross country team was really exciting.”

Now a student at Western, Bayly’s major is interdisciplinary studies with focuses in early childhood education and social science. With that, she hopes to go into policy making to help low-income families afford high quality care for their children. But her absolute dream job goes even deeper than that.

“It’s hard because I’ve always had this vision of every kid in the United States having access to high quality early care … and every kid is loved and cared for in an awesome environment — I have no idea how to make that happen,” said Bayly. “So maybe my dream job would be a CEO of a nonprofit that’s doing amazing things for kids, or maybe a really influential policy writer … So I don’t know, I’m still figuring out the path.”

As a student in a town that’s 419 miles away from where she calls home, Bayly still manages to find ways to keep herself busy outside of her sport of the season.

“I like to read. I’m reading “Game of Thrones” right now so I’m avoiding social media because I don’t want spoilers from the show,” said Bayly. “I like hikes and being outside … my sister and I just went on a backpacking trip over spring break … And, of course, working with kids whenever I can.”

For those curious, Bayly’s favorite hike she has ever been on was to Opal Creek, when she went early in the season with her roommates last year, and her favorite book of all time was either “Kite Runner” or “Lord of the Rings.”

As for her future as an athlete, Bayly expressed emotion towards one sport that she has been neglecting in recent years.

“I really miss basketball, and I’m hoping to get into a rec-league or something,” she said. As for running, though, her plans for the future are clear.

“I love running,” Bayly said. “I can’t imagine my life without running, so I’ll definitely keep that up.”

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photo by Paul F. Davis

Northwest Wrestling Alliance wages the War of Independence

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

It was a battle like Independence had never seen before. In the middle of the Elk’s Lodge, a wrestling ring had been staged — the eventual setting for six unforgettable Northwest Wrestling Alliance Professional Wrestling matches. On April 27, a crowd of all ages filled the seats and waited in anticipation of what was to come with the “War of Independence.”

As the fast-paced rock music grew louder, so did the eagerness. Finally, the curtains swung open and rushing to the ring was the NWAA’s new ring announcer, Richie Stratton. The crowd welcomed Stratton with cheers and applause, as he prepared the viewers for the fight they were about to see: Eddie Pearl versus Eric Right.

Smoke seeping from the cracks of the curtain, Eddie came rushing out in glory, rock music playing to complement the mullet he was donning. Engaging with the crowd, he made his way to the ring and awaited his opponent. Right behind him, Eric Right made his appearance known. Despite the boos of the crowd, he was ready for a fight. After an extravagant show of elbows, pins and punches, Eddie took the title.

In Eddie’s next battle against Johnny Paradise, Eddie sustained injuries early on that forced the match to utilize the “Freebird Rule.” By using this, Eddie’s backup Billy stepped in as substitute. This, however, turned out to be a squash, as Johnny Paradise took Billy down in two seconds.

Up next was Joseph Bennett versus Troy Dagger. A mix of cheers and boos for each opponent could be heard from the crowd, as nobody was sure who’d come out on top. But after a huge suplex in the hands of Dagger, Bennett went down hard; Troy Dagger took the win.

The crowd was anxious for a real fight, and that’s exactly what they were given as Doctor Clever and Caden Cassidy took to the ring. Playing heavy metal and sporting a large mohawk, Doctor Clever was a model example of what the audience hated. However, two people in the audience had to disagree with the rest.

“Doctor Clever was definitely my favorite wrestler,” said audience member Alexa Boucher. Sitting next to her was audience member Mason Hinton, who chimed in as well.

“It was his mohawk that really set him apart from everyone else,” said Hinton.

The two outlier fans ended up getting the outcome they wanted, as Doctor Clever was able to take down the famous Caden Cassidy.

It was time to change it up a bit. Two teams took the ring: Konami Code, which was made up of wrestlers Julian Whyt and C.J. Edwards, versus High 5, which was made up of Patrick Large and Draven Vargas. The teams weren’t willing to go down easy, taking turns to take their opponents down — but only one could come out on top. After an outrageous show, Konami Code was deemed victorious.

Following a long intermission, the crowd was ready to see something new. That’s exactly what Stratton was ready to give them as he introduced the “power of femininity,” as he called it, by bringing Fire Rose and Mary Jane Pain to the ring. The two didn’t hold back — punches were thrown and a fight ensued until it was interrupted by the curtains being ripped open: Eddie van Glam was here, and he wanted it to be known. Wearing pants that were one-leg-spandex, one-leg-fishnets, and donning a shirt that simply said “Butt Stuff,” the audience knew he meant business. The fight quickly turned into two against one, as Rose and MJ took on Eddie; the women took the title.

At last, it was time for the Championship Match: the “Black Sheep” Dave Turner versus Johnny Paradise. Turner was hated by the crowd, but unlike the other antagonists, he wouldn’t easily accept the boos. Clearly unable to withhold his anger, he even went up to a crowd member, cursed at him, flipped him off, then threw his hat off of his head. Paradise, on the other hand, was loved. He fed off of the crowd’s energy until finally, he stole the title from Turner and became the champion.

Speaking once again with Boucher and Hinton, they had more to add about this match.

“We’re here because we’re wrestling fans … it was a great show. It was very energetic and there was a really good crowd,” said Boucher.

“More people need to go to wrestling shows — people will be pleasantly surprised,” added Hinton.

Wrestler Caden Cassidy described the crowd in one word — electric.

“This is one of the best crowds I’ve ever had in this area,” said Cassidy. “Big turnout. And I think we actually gave them a good show.”

The NWWA is holding its next match at the Milwaukie Elks Lodge on May 11, and will be returning to the Independence Elks Lodge on June 22.

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photos by Paul F. Davis

Western Men’s Lacrosse playoff recap

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

Seven wins and three losses — this was the record that Men’s Lacrosse had as it entered into the PNCLL playoffs. Their first opponent: Gonzaga University. In the 2016 playoffs, the Wolves went head to head against Gonzaga and lost, 21-10. For the first time in three years, the men were ready to face them again. Taking to the field on April 26, they weren’t willing to go down without a fight.

A battle was what Gonzaga was presented with. Neither side wanted to let up, but Western found itself with a comfortable lead going into the half. This lead left the Wolves feeling more relaxed, which gave the Bulldogs the opportunity to find their way to the back of the net. Western knew they had to find the momentum they began the game with. With lightning-fast offense and relentless defense, the Wolves proved to be too much for the Bulldogs. After a hard-fought competition, the Wolves came out on top, 16-13.

“It felt good to get a playoff win,” said junior midfielder Taylor Klus. “We haven’t even made the playoffs since I’ve been here so it was good to go from not making the playoffs to winning the first game. It meant a lot to the program after a rough couple years.”

During the game, senior Andrew Barnett reached his 100th career goal, and 100th assist. This made him the second player in Western Men’s Lacrosse history to reach that milestone.

Having eliminated Gonzaga from the tournament, Western was ready to move on to the semifinals versus the University of Montana the following day, April 27. The drop in temperature reflected the drop in energy that the Wolves were feeling.

“The odds were stacked against us going in,” Klus added. “We were on the second day of a back-to-back. They had home field and they have over 30 players on their roster.”

But the men weren’t ready to back down. They came in strong, and went head-first into the game feeling prepared for a win. However, the battle took a turn for the worse as the Wolves found themselves grounded on defense against the Grizzlies. After four quarters of struggling to make their way down the field, the Wolves fell to the University of Montana, 21-8. This closed their season.

“Overall, I think the season went well,” said Klus. “We gained a lot of experience on how to play those better teams.”

As for the state of Men’s Lacrosse in the upcoming years, Klus isn’t worried.

“I think WOU Lacrosse is on the rise. We have a very strong freshman class and another freshman class coming in that will help fill the gaps of the four seniors,” Klus said. “With a few more bodies, better rest … I fully expect to win the PNCLL next year.”

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Sharon Eidler

Spring Intramural leaderboard: The top teams of each sport

Volleyball

 

Co-Rec Competitive

Killah Hawaiians 3-0

Bumpin’ 2-1

Meow Down 1-2

Wait for it…. 0-3

 

Co-Rec Recreational

Incomprehensibilities 3-0

Scott’s Tots 3-1

Work for sets 2-2

I’d hit that 0-3

 

Men’s/Women’s

Joey’s Men’s VB Team 3-1

Ball Busters 2-1

Mas Hits 1-2

Meet the Blockers 1-2

Bumping balls 1-2

 

Softball

 

Co-Rec Sunday Night League

Broke Bat Mountain 2-0

benchwarmers 3-0

Always Going Deep 2-1

Swingers 1-1

Masterbatterz 1-1

Misfits 1-1

Dunder Mifflin Inc. 0-3

Wait for it…. 0-3

 

Co-Rec Thursday Evening League

Soft balls 1-0

Basic Pitches 1-0

Bad Apples 1-1

Rolling Bunts 0-1

The One Hit Wonders 0-1


Men’s Monday Evening League

Dirty Ball Bags 1-0

Opihi Lickahz 1-0

Blue Ballers 0-1

Rippin Magoos 0-1

 

Soccer

 

Co-Rec

Los Linguistas 1-0

Look ma, no hands! 1-0

Your Goalie’s Nightmare 1-0

Grace & The Funky Bunch 1-1

Head Game Strong 0-1

Dunder Mifflin 0-1

Team World 0-1

 

Photo by Paul F. Davis

Men’s Lacrosse closes out their senior send-off on top against Southern Oregon University

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

The stands were filled with the cheers and howls of Wolves and fans alike, as the men made their way to the field for the last home game of the season. For some, it would be the last time they ever play on the home-turf. For others, it would be the last opportunity to show their Western fans the potential that Men’s Lacrosse has for years to come. Playing against rivals Southern Oregon University, the Wolves had a tough fight cut out for them on April 20.

However, before the game could begin, there were four seniors to be celebrated. Seniors Bryce Hinkle, Zack Rodgers, Andrew Barnett and Alex Eidler were presented with framed photos of them playing, a memento of the dedication put forth and memories made while taking to the field as a Wolf.

Once the gifts were given, it was time to get down to business.

“I was personally nervous up until the game actually started,” stated senior Bryce Hinkle. “The energy seemed a little less focused but more energetic than usual.” But once the game actually began, the momentum didn’t cease until the game came to a close.

Western would dodge down the field and score, and Southern would retaliate in the same manner. For the first quarter, this type of play continued, until Western found itself in a comfortable lead. Always sitting above Southern by at least a point, the Wolves wouldn’t let the Raiders’s quick-scoring get the best of them.

At half, Western was ready to make an adjustment to ensure the Raiders couldn’t come out on top. They decided to put their defenseman Justin Morales on Southern’s #00, and according to Hinkle, “he essentially shut down their best goal-scorer.”

From then on, Western was able to extend their lead to an even more comfortable margin, sitting a firm three-points above the Raiders throughout most of the third quarter, stretching into the fourth. It was a defensive stalemate, with both keepers putting a stop to any potential score. However, it wasn’t until the final minutes that the Wolves were able to find the back of the net, and extend their lead to 5, closing the game 18-13, Western.

“That game meant a lot to me, especially with it being the last game with some of my best friends who I would have never met otherwise,” said Hinkle. “The future of WOU LAX looks pretty good … this team has had the best chemistry of any team that I’ve been on here and I don’t see that changing in the future.”

The Wolves play again on Friday, April 26 at 4 p.m. against Gonzaga University in the first game of the Pacific Northwest Collegiate Lacrosse League playoffs. The last time Wolves played against Gonzaga was 2016, where Western lost 21-10 in the second round of the PNCLL playoffs.

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photo by Caity Healy

Four Western Rugby players nominated to try-out for All-Star Grizzly team

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

In its first year as part of the National Small College Rugby Organization, Western Oregon Rugby was already making a name for itself. Two seniors and two sophomores were invited to try out for the Pacific Coast All-Star team to play as Grizzlies: seniors Joey Caver and Matt Cornish, and sophomores Kai Segundo and Trever Kahunahana. Trying out individually, if they made it, they’d be playing the All-Star tournament in Houston, Texas beginning on May 23.

“It’s an honor to just be selected to try out,” explained Assistant Director of Campus Recreation Andy Main, “but if we get someone on the team, I’m really hoping to make it known because it’s a pretty big deal.”

Main went on to explain what it takes to be nominated; aside from talent on the turf, it all comes down to character.

“The success of the Pacific Coast All-Star team in the past was because they had high-character guys, as well as good rugby players. Absolutely all four of these guys meet that criteria,” Main said. “They’re good rugby players but also really good guys so I’m really proud they’re the ones getting the shot at this.”

On April 13, the morning of the tryouts, the players could feel a change in energy on the pitch.

“It was different honestly. I kept thinking about it the day of because I was comparing it to a regular game,” said Caver. “I was still really nervous but I knew that because it was more-individual focused … I didn’t have all the pressure and focus that I usually do. It was a different focus.”

Kahunahana could relate with the energy Caver was feeling that morning.

“I was really nervous. Not knowing the coaches… it’s really hard preparing for that… just getting thrown into the fire,” said Kahunahana.

When it came down to it, the four pushed their nerves aside and played as hard as they could. For the seniors, just being nominated was significant, as it was their last opportunity to show their skill for Western.

“It means a lot, actually. I’m a senior… Western Oregon Rugby means a lot to me,” said Caver. “It’s sad to know that I’m done with Western but now we have this, the All-Star game… knowing that there’s more gives me hope.”

Cornish added, “I’m always trying to go out there and do my best so this felt like a really good thing.”

As for the sophomores, being nominated at a young age meant something entirely different. For Kahunahana, it was only his second year playing rugby.

“For me it was a big experience. My position doesn’t really get the spotlight,” said Kahunahana, “the fact that someone actually made notice of my work was a really special thing.”

For Segundo, this was his first year every playing rugby at all.

“It was truly an honor to be nominated,” said Segundo. “I have been constantly working … to get a better knowledge of the game of rugby and to mold myself into the best player that I can be.”

After a long day of every player going out of their way to prove their talent and abilities, the team walked away with a sense of pride in what they had accomplished. But for Caver, that sense of pride came in the form of a confirmed spot in the Houston All-Star game.

“After the game, the coach pulled me aside and asked me, ‘are you going to be available for the Houston game?’” said Caver, “and I was like, ‘I’ll make myself available.’ … I got one of the three total automatic spots on the team from that day.”

The rest of the players are anxiously awaiting to hear whether or not they’ll be joining Caver with the Grizzlies, and the final results will be released on May 1. But as for now, the nominations alone shows the direction that Western Oregon Rugby is headed.

“WOU Rugby is going to be dominant in the future. With the four of us being nominated, it will motivate our other teammates to push harder in practice and in games to be nominated as well,” said Segundo.

Kahunahana added to that, saying “we’re going to be a really young team but luckily this year with a lot of experience passed down, we’re looking really good.”

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photos courtesy of Brandon Killen

Club Sport highlight: Get to know Western’s Dance Team

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

How long has Western’s dance team been around?

WOU Dance Team has been a part of the WOU Club Sports for about 4 years.

What does an average day look like for someone who is on dance team?

The great thing about the dance team, (it) does not typically interfere with a student’s school schedule or ability to participate in other extra curricular activities at school. We practice three times a week in the evening Tuesday through Thursday.

How many people are involved with it?

For this academic year, we had 21 girls involved with the team by the end of basketball season. That has been the largest amount of participation and positive growth I have seen since I have been involved with the team in the past four years.

Is dance team currently doing anything on campus?

Spring Term is usually considered our “off season”- it is much more relaxed regarding our practice and performance schedule, but right now we are prepping for our upcoming kid’s clinic on May 25.

If someone is considering joining or trying out for the team, what is your advice?

Something that is really cool about our try-out process, is that we have two per year. One during Spring Term for the following fall and one at the end of Fall Term in the current academic year for basketball season in the winter. For somebody considering joining … my best advice is to have a positive attitude and have fun. Of course the dance team values somebody who is committed and a harder worker, but all we can ask is for  an individual who is willing to learn and have fun. We are not a competition team, so our schedule is not as rigorous as some people may think. We encourage people who have a background in dance such as other previous dance team experience, hip-hop, jazz, or pom to try out, but it is not required.

Where can students go if they are wanting to join, or wanting more information?

If you want to stay updated on current events, you can like our Facebook page “Western Oregon University Dance Team” or follow us at “WOU_danceteam” on Instagram. We have tryouts coming up at the end of May for football season of 2019. Follow our social media for updates if interested.

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photo by Paul F. Davis

Women’s rugby faces off against unplanned Alumnae/outside player team

Cora McClain | Copy Editor

There was a chill in the air on the drizzly morning of April 13 as Western’s women’s rugby took to the pitch against a team sporting very similar colors to our Wolves. An interview with club president Lexi Osborn after the game cleared up the confusion.

“Eastern cancelled on us Wednesday, so we sent out a mass Facebook post inviting any women ruger (rugby player) in the Oregon area to come out for our seniors’ last home game … most of them are alum,” Osborn explained.

The Alumnae and Wolves faced off for this exciting match. From the first blow of the whistle, the energy between the two teams was palpable, both giving their all. The experience of the alumnae was obvious from their expert passing and pushing against the Wolves as they held their defensive line. However, it couldn’t hold the Alums back from scoring the first try of the game. This was followed shortly by a quick play by the Wolves that won them their first try.

After, the aggressive teams struggled up and down the sideline. Their bodies slammed together, each team pushing as the rain began to pour. The raw power of the Wolves gave them the ability to crawl along the sideline to their next try, making it through the uprights for the extra points, taking the lead. However, the Alumnae retaliated with their fast passing to earn their next try.

This struggle continued as the cheering of supportive fans rang out as the Wolves found a break in the Alumnae’s defensive. Sprinting down the center of the field to a slide through the uprights earned the Wolves their final try for the half. The hard work of each team displayed in the final score of the half, 24-20 Wolves.

The second half saw the teams come back with even more energy than before. A battle that traveled from sideline to sideline ensued, with injuries sustained from both the Wolves and Alumnae as the later pulled ahead with decisive passing and power pushing them into a lead. However, as the clock had 16 minutes left, the teams broke and gathered together into a huddle. Hip-hip-hoorays rang out over the field as the sun peaked out from the clouds.

After the seniors were presented to the crowd of cheering fans, each sporting a crown of flowers, Osborn explained that it was the Wolves’s final home match for the season.

“We wanted to give the seniors a good send-off,” Osborn said. When asked about the future of the club, she explained that half of the team are rookies who started just two weeks earlier.

“We have a lot to learn,” Osborn said. She explained how they were going to have to work on their defense for future games.

The Wolves will be taking to the pitch once again on April 20 to face off against University of Portland.

 

Contact the author at cmcclain17@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Paul F. Davis

Western Oregon host Northwest Club Basketball Championship, takes first

Shariff Youngblood | Freelancer

On a typical Pacific Northwest cold and gloomy day, five teams battled for the Northwest Basketball Club League Championships. A trophy was on the line, and there was only one team that was going to go home with it.

On April 13, the Wolves, University of Portland, Seattle University, University of Oregon and a second Western club team, which was added due to a team dropping out, came together. Western students gathered around the gym to show support for the home team.

The first game of the tournament on April 13 saw the Wolves take on the University Of Portland Pilots. The Pilots came out scoring in the first half, and kept hitting shots in the second; they ended up closing out Western, 71-52.

With a game under their belt and a loss on their record, the Wolves responded by coming out on fire versus the University of Oregon as they built a comfortable halftime lead of 47-32. The University of Oregon would not go quietly as they hit three-pointer after three-pointer and cut lead down to six with about five minutes remaining, but it was all Wolves from there as they pulled away late with a final score of 96-77.

After every team played two games, the tournament playoffs began. The Wolves were matched up against the Pilots. Western’s second club basketball team was matched up with Seattle University. The Wolves had revenge on their mind as they looked to knock the Pilots out of the tournament; Western’s second club team was looking to advance to the championships.

Western’s second club team played a close game all the way through the second half. The deficit was cut to three points in the closing seconds. Seattle University stepped up late and made four free throws to close out the game, 47-41.

The Wolves started their game against the Pilots by hitting six threes in the first half. However, the Pilots were determined to make it a close game and cut the lead down to single digits with the score being 35-28 going into the second half.

The second half proved to be a physical game with both teams trading buckets until the last four minutes, when Western held to the win. Both teams fought hard, but the Wolves hung on with a 54-44 win to advance to the championships versus Seattle University.

The championship game was finally here. The Wolves were matched up against the  undefeated Seattle University team. Western came out fired up and was able to build a double-digit lead in the first couple of minutes. The teams traded baskets but the Wolves were leading 38-23 going into the second half.

The second half was a completely different game as Seattle University started making shots. They fought their way back and cut the lead down to four points with about six minutes to go. With his team needing to extend the lead, the Club Sports player of the week Joey Gaylord took over. Gaylord started the runoff by hitting back to back deep threes extending the lead to 10 in the closing minutes.

However, Seattle University would not let up, and cut the lead down to six with about 40 seconds of play left. The Wolves made their free throws and closed out the game 54-46, capping off a 3-1 finish and earning the title of Basketball Club League Champions.

“This championship is really big for WOU with us being such a small school. We have about 6,000 students and were playing against D1 schools and we have proven ourselves as one of the top D2 schools out there,” said Gaylord.

 

Contact the author at syoungblood16@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Paul F. Davis

Get to know your Western athletes: Cheyanne Rimer

Mikaela Wong | Staff Writer

It’s typical for students to watch school sporting events and cheer on the athletes from the stands. However, it’s also easy to forget that the very athletes they are there to watch, are students too, who have lives outside of their sport.

Cheyanne Rimer, a senior and exercise science major, is one of these student-athletes, who plays third base on Western’s softball team. It can be difficult to see her outside of this lens, especially when she’s reaching high success with the team.

An example of this success came during the matchup against the Montana State University Billings on April 8. Rimer hit a grand-slam, which sealed her sixth homer of the year. Western conquered both games, 12-0 and 11-1.

When asked what got her first interested in playing softball, her answer was honest.

“I’m from Scio, Oregon and to be honest, there’s not a lot to do in Scio… My graduating class was 59 people and I knew most of them since pre-school.”

For this reason, she picked up the sport. But she didn’t want to quit, and she had a reason for that.

“Softball just happened to be my favorite sport, so I just kind of kept with it.”

While some may see her and think of her as only an athlete, there’s more to Rimer than softball. When asked to describe her personality in a nutshell, she explained it in simple terms: “I’m goofy, kind of loud, friendly, approachable,” Rimer said.

While there are many reasons to enjoy the sport, Rimer said her favorite part of playing softball actually has to do with her teammates.

“I never grew up with a sister, so I feel like I was kind of shorted out on that aspect,” said Rimer, “but I get that with them.”

Although it’s clear she built important relationships with the teammates she works so closely with on and off the field, Rimer also has traditions she keeps with her friends apart from those she made through softball.

“My roommates and I have ‘roomie nights’ where we all make something for dinner and then watch a movie together — usually classic ‘80s movies,” Rimer explained.

After the end of the season, Rimer will be graduating from Western. Upon her graduation, she has plans to hone in on her future career aspirations.

“I have an internship in the fall for Cardiac Rehab which is where I want my career to go,” said Rimer. “And then eventually (I’ll) move to Roseburg because I really like it down there.”

As for her potential to ever give coaching a try, Rimer’s stance wasn’t entirely certain.

“I would consider coaching but not right away because I want to focus on my career. But I can see myself going back to it in the future.”

Catch Rimer and the rest of Western’s softball team at their next game. April 13, Western will be playing a doubleheader at Concordia University, followed by another doubleheader against Concordia University at home on April 14.

 

Contact the author at mwong16@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Ashlynn Norton

Club spotlight: Rock climbing club

Paul F. Davis | Managing Editor

So often, sports involve the mastery of ball use or implement to be truly great in competition. However, climbing is different; it requires a mastery of one’s body instead. Dyno’s, side pulls and gastones could potentially be in the near future of those wanting to participate in a challenging, yet exhilarating, sport that always allows its competitors to improve. If this peaks your interest, then luckily, there’s a resource ready at Western for you: Rock Climbing Club could be your perfect fit.

Western Oregon University Rock Climbing Club started in 2015 and has been growing ever since.

Senior Kayla Baker, club captain, loves climbing because, “there’s a lot of problem-solving involved so it’s a really satisfying way to stay active … and there is always room to grow as a climber.”

Rock Climbing Club meets at Salem’s climbing gym Rock Boxx Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.; Rock Boxx is located at 3895 Cascadia Canyon Ave SE, Salem, OR 97302.

For anyone who may feel nervous about joining, Baker noted that, “I don’t think there’s any group more welcoming than the climbing community.” Not only is the community extremely inviting, but the best time to join is right now. This is especially true for those interested in competing against other collegiate climbers in the Northwest Collegiate Climbing Circuit. This is because the last three competitions of the year are occuring in the next three weeks: April 13 at Portland State University;  April 20 at Whitman College; and April 27 at the University of Washington.

For those that have just started climbing, or for those that have climbed a majority of their life, feel free to email Baker at kmbaker15@wou.edu, so you, too, can start solving new problems and finding solutions to them as a part Western’s Rock Climbing Club.

 

Contact the author at pfdavis14@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Paul F. Davis

Men take first, women take second at John Knight Twilight meet

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

McArthur Field was home to 17 different teams, six different levels and a full day of track and field events for the John Knight Twilight, held on April 5. With 38 different events taking place beginning at 1 p.m. on a stormy Friday, the Wolves were ready to come out on top.

The first event that the Wolves were able to capture the title of was women’s 400-meter dash. Olivia Woods of Western completed the race in 58.13 seconds, earning the Women Wolves 10 points.

Up next to the start line were the men, also taking on the 400. After completing the lap, Western’s Gabe Arce-Torres came out on top with a time of 49.38, taking first and adding 10 points to the men’s score.

Continuing on in the day, Wolves managed to come out victorious in the men’s 1500-meter run. With Western’s Justin Crosswhite completing the race in 3:53.42, he earned another 10 points to add to the men’s score.

30 minutes later, Wolves were ready to add another 10. The men’s 3000-meter steeplechase also deemed a Wolf victorious, with Western’s Hunter Mosman completing the race in 9:29.41, earning another full 10 points.

Off the track, Western also took home two first-place wins. The first one came at 4 p.m., with the women’s javelin throw. Western’s Darian Wilson threw 42.14 meters, earning 10 points for the Women Wolves. The second win off of the track also came from the women, with the Women’s Discus Throw. Western’s Moana Gianotti was able to pull out the victory, throwing a 10-point earning 43.24 meters.

By the end of the event, the Wolves had taken first in six total events. They pulled through second place in three other events, and third in six others. By the end of the day, Western men walked away with 116 points, earning them the first-place spot. They were 9 points above the second-place ranked Concordia University. Western women came out with 93 points, just 16 under the first place Southern Oregon University, earning them the title of second place.

The Wolves are on the road for their next event, at the Pacific Luau Invitational in Forest Grove, OR, on April 13.

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Ashlynn Norton

Men’s basketball 2019 postseason, 2-2

Paul F. Davis | Managing Editor

A year after one of the most successful seasons in Western Men’s Basketball history,  this year’s team was not expecting to be nearly as dominant as last year; the Wolves had graduated a majority of their most highlighted players from the year prior. Still, the basketball team showed that even though this may be true, the newer and less experienced team could still take home wins in the postseason.

The GNAC’s fourth-ranked Western Men’s team started the postseason at the GNAC Championship Tournament, located in Bellingham, Washington on March 7, by playing the fifth-ranked Montana State Billings. The game ended in a close 79 to 72 win for the Wolves.

In the semifinals of the tournament played on March 8, Western faced a team which they had already lost to twice. In this game the Wolves faced first ranked Saint Martin’s University. In the beginning of the game, odds were not in Western’s favor and neither was the score. The Saints started the game by holding Western scoreless for almost five minutes. The Wolves eventually did score, but at half they were down 23-33.

The Wolves, who trailed the entire game up this point, came back fired up and ready to control the odds. Only the players and assistant coaches know what Coach Jim Shaw said during half time, but one can assume it turned a switch in the Wolves.

At the third minute of the second half, the five players on the court started to light up Saint Martins. In the next six minutes, Western went on a 22-6 run which clinched Western’s first lead of the night. From this moment on, Western kept the lead and won with dominance over the first seeded saints 70-53.

In the final game of the GNAC tournament, on March 9, Western’s mental grit was nowhere to be found. They played the second-ranked team, Seattle Pacific, and fell short in a loss of 66-78.

With their impressive performance at the GNAC championship the Men’s basketball team was invited back to the NCAA Division II Basketball Tournament. They came into the tournament ranked eighth in their bracket and that meant facing first seeded Point Loma. Facing a team with a 27-4 record proved too much for the inexperienced Wolves in a game that ended with a score of 58-70.

After splitting wins and losses in the postseason, the Western Men’s team came home with more postseason experience and hopefully that will translate to them coming back next year ready to win.

 

Contact the author at pfdavis14@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Ashlynn Norton

Club vs. Varsity: An unprecedented battle

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

The skies darkened and the clouds rolled in as the two teams made their way to the turf. Raindrops rolling down their cheeks as the unforgiving showers would not surrender, the women showed their game-faces, signaling that they’d fight with the same tenacity as the storm overhead. On April 1, the ladies went head to head to start an unprecedented battle: Women’s Club Soccer versus Women’s Varsity Soccer.

Though the scrimmage, which was spearheaded by Women’s Club Soccer’s captain Haylie Shinsato and their coach Robert Oretaga took place on April Fool’s Day, there were no laughs; both teams meant business. According to Rip Horsey, Director of Campus Recreation, this was the first time in his 10 years at Western that a club sport played against a varsity one. Nobody was sure of what the result would be.

“Our team was really nervous … but also excited because it was a nice opportunity to be able to play each other and support each other,” said junior Spanish and art and design major Hannah Greene, who played for Club.

Meanwhile, Selene Konyn, junior pre-early childhood and elementary education major and Varsity player, noted a different energy as their team went into the game.

“Our energy was really high. We just got a new coach and we feel like we created a new identity as a team and we just really wanted to go out there and prove to everyone and prove to ourselves that we are good soccer players,” Konyn said.

From the beginning, the action started off slow. Both teams found themselves running up and down the field, playing an equal share of offense and defense. As the game progressed, Varsity was able to make their way down the field, forcing Club onto defense for a substantial portion of the half.

Despite this, Club wasn’t ready to wave their white flag; their defense was able to prevent the ball from reaching the goal in the face of the relentless attempts by Varsity’s offense. This kept up until, near the end of the half, Varsity made their first goal of the game. As the horn signaled the half, the scoreboard displayed 1-0, with Varsity in the lead.

Once the women made their way back to the field, Varsity seemed to have picked up momentum, as they were able to keep Club on defense for almost the entire half. Though Varsity’s offense was fierce, so was Club’s defense. Numerous goals were attempted; most were prevented. By the end of the half, Varsity was eager to win, and Club seemed to have lost their momentum. After two more goals were snuck in by Varsity, the scrimmage came to a close, 3-0.

Afterwards, Greene discussed what this scrimmage meant for her and her team.

“Our school is united and supporting each other, which I really appreciate … this showed that we can play but still be a team after all,” said Greene. “I hope it becomes (a tradition).”

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Ashlynn Norton

Western hosts Rugby Pacific Coast Challenge Cup, takes third

Caity Healy | Editor-in-Chief

The final two days of Spring Break were greeted with sunshine, warm weather and four teams coming together to go head to head for a bid to the big stage: the National Small College Rugby Organization National Championship Tournament. On March 30-31, Western was home to the Pacific Coast Regional Challenge Cup, which saw the Wolves, Azusa Pacific University, Humboldt State University and Central Oregon Community College battle each other out in a single-elimination tournament.

In order for Western to have the opportunity to act as host, they had to apply and fall under a number of specific qualifications.

“It was a comprehensive application process,” said Assistant Director of Campus Recreation Andy Main. “We had to outline everything from the size of your bleacher seating … the capability to do live stream … manage parking … manage the staff.” This information was outlined as clearly as possible for NSCRO, which is what Main believes won the Wolves the bid, along with their high level of organization which differentiated us from other schools.

When the bid was awarded to Western, excitement was felt for a couple of reasons.

“Not only were we excited for all the good things it could do for Western,” said Main, “but it meant that our team would be able to play in this tournament. If we hadn’t gotten the bid, we would not have been eligible for this tournament.”

The first semifinal of the tournament on March 30 saw the Central Oregon Bobcats take on the Humboldt State Lumberjacks. After 80 minutes of action, the Lumberjacks came out on top with a final score of 27-17, setting themselves up for the championship match 24 hours later. 

With game one of the tournament over, the Wolves made their way onto the rugby pitch to face the Azusa Pacific Cougars for the second semifinal, ready to see who would take the final seat in the championship match the following day.

From the opening kick, Western was met with a relentless offensive attack from Azusa Pacific. After four tries, three conversions and a 3-point play by the Cougars, the first half came to a close, posting a harsh score of 0-29.

As the second half began, Western was ready to turn things around. Nine minutes in, they scored their first try and conversion of the game, bringing the score to 7-29.

The Cougars were unyielding, but the Wolves weren’t ready to give up the fight. For the remainder of the game, Western put up a noble defensive blockade, holding Azusa Pacific from scoring at all in the second half. The game ended with a final score of 21-29, with the Cougars on top, earning their seat in the championship match.

The sun was shining brightly on March 31 as the four teams made their way to the pitch for day two. This seemed to stir up a sense of optimism in Western, who exhibited a clear hunger for victory as they got ready to take on Central Oregon.

“We came into the game with some energy,” said exercise science major Riley Bardes. “We knew we didn’t come into the game yesterday with energy, so we wanted to do the opposite of that.”

Right from the beginning, the Wolves came out firing. Within the first five minutes, Western scored two tries. The men continued a ruthless, offensive assault throughout the game, holding the Bobcats from scoring until the home-side had 17 points posted on the scoreboard.

The attack only got more brutal from there. The cheers from the audience continuously got louder as the ball seemed to live in the hands of the Western Oregon Rugby Men. Any attempts by the Bobcats to inch towards the goal-line were halted immediately by the Wolves until the game came to a close, 49-7.

“We finished (the season) well here today,” said Bardes, “that’s what we wanted to do… I’m really proud of today.”

In the final match of the tournament, Azusa Pacific came out on top over Humboldt State, 25-5, earning their bid to the NSCRO National Championship Tournament, which is set for April 27-28.

 

Contact the author at howleditor@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Ashlynn Norton

Wolves stomp Eagles, fall to Boxers

Lake Larsen | Sports Editor

For the final time before the Challenge Cup, the Wolves took the field for back-to-back home matches on March 2 and 3. Their first of the two opponents was Eastern Washington University. Due to the Eagles being short on players, the Wolves agreed to adjust the match from the typical 15 vs 15 contest to only 10 vs 10. But regardless of the numbers, the Wolves were ready.

From the opening whistle it became clear that this game was far from typical rugby.

The Wolves blew past the Eagles and were off to the races on a seemingly regular basis. This supposed rugby match quickly became a track meet as both sides were able to make a single tackler miss and sprint to the goalline for a try.

As the game continued on, the only thing running faster than the clock was the score. With the Wolves on top by an amazing twenty points, the scoreboard began to look like that of a basketball game. Players could be heard laughing and joking with each other as the points kept piling on.

By the final whistle, Western put up an astonishing 73 points. Eastern Washington had put up a valiant fight as they finished with 53, leaving the teams to combine for a total of 126 points — an unofficial record for the club. But now the Wolves looked forward to their next opponent, Pacific University.

“We know we’ll have a really physical game” commented senior criminal justice major Chris Davis. “They’re a well conditioned team and communicate well so it will be a good game.”

As the Wolves stepped back onto the field for the second time, it became clear that today’s match would pale in comparison to the previous. The once high-scoring heroics of the offense would have to shift to hard-hitting defense for the Wolves to win.

No team had an advantage over the other as both sides stood their ground. The defensive powers collided over and over like the rumble of thunder. But finally, a crack a lightning struck the Wolves.

A firm Western pass out to the wing was intercepted by an opposing Boxer. The Wolves quickly changed their direction and began their pursuit, but it was too late. Pacific found its way onto the scoreboard first, leading 0-7.

The first half wore on, deprived of another score. Both teams knew that whichever side follied first would suffer. With only 11 minutes left to play, a slick juke followed by a hard cut let to a Boxer breakaway and another score. The Wolves now trailed 0-14.

With only a couple minutes remaining before the half, Western was in desperate need of a score. Thrice before the Wolves had seen their offensive push foiled by Pacific, but with only two minutes remaining, the Wolves caught a break.

Throwing down a would-be tackler with a violent stiff arm, senior Matthew Cornish broke away and flew down for a try. But with a nearly 40-yard conversion try falling short, the Wolves still trailed by two scores, 5-14.

With the second half underway, the abundance of scoring from the previous day showed to be more of a liability than an asset. Out of breath, the Wolves were unable to match pace with the well-rested Boxers. Tries began to pile up on the Wolves as they seemed to have no answer. In the echo of the final whistle, Western eked their way to one last try and conversion. But the match was all but over with Western having fallen 35-11.

After splitting the weekend 1-1 the Wolves look forward to some much needed rest. With their final regular season games now behind them, they prepare to host the Challenge cup on March 30 and 31.

 

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Ashlynn Norton

Women’s basketball gets slaughtered on senior night

Lake Larsen | Sports Editor

March 2 marked the final time the Wolves would take their home court for the 2019 regular basketball season against Saint Martin’s. Fresh off of a 60-53 win over Seattle Pacific on Feb. 28, the Wolves were ready to finish their season off with a win on senior night. With a pregame ceremony for the graduating senior players as well as for the senior dance team members coming to an end, the Wolves focused on the game ahead of them.

Due to the abysmal 8-17 record for the Wolves leading up to the night, there would be no chance for a postseason. But despite this reality, Western still took to their court with a vengeance.

The Wolves wasted no time as they jumped out to a massive lead half way into the first. A flurry of good jumpers slung Western to a 12-6 lead. This dominating burst was short-lived, however, as the Saints came marching back in the closing minutes of the first. By the end of the opening quarter, Western clung to a one-point lead.

The second quarter showed no team had a clear advantage over the other as both teams swapped the lead back and forth. Each good bucket was met with another by the opposition. But as the minutes dwindled down, Saint Martin’s went on a hot streak that carried them into halftime with a seven point lead.

The momentum gained in the closing of the first half carried into the second as the Saints again buried with Wolves with shot after shot. Saint Martin’s had taken their seven point lead and pushed it to a high of 12 before finally settling at eight.

The fourth quarter showed signs of an all too familiar final quarter of the Wolves. What started as a close match quickly devolved into utter chaos as the Saints pushed their lead higher and higher. With little resistance from Western, the score quickly got out of hand. The final buzzer had the Wolves leaving with their tail between their legs, with the final score reading 82-58.

 

Contact the author at howlsports@wou.edu

Photo courtesy of Ashlynn Norton

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