The Red & Purple Interview: Linfield's Daryl Agpalsa

Welcome back to our latest addition of the ongoing “Red and Purple” interview series. I had the honor to talk to former Linfield All-American Offensive Guard and former Linfield Coach, Daryl Agpalsa. Daryl was a consensus All-American selection his senior year (2002) and was a member of one of Linfield’s greatest and most beloved teams in 2002.

Any Linfield’er will enjoy hearing about the origins of the “Leave No Doubt” motto, insight on the 2002 season, Daryl’s transition into the coaching ranks and about moving on from Linfield as the new offensive line coach at Hamline University (Mn.)

Daryl is truly a humble and fantastic person. It was a pleasure to trade emails with this Linfield great.

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(Wildcat11) Let’s go all the way back to the end of the 2001 season. A young ‘Cats squad started 1-2 and then rattled off 6 straight wins including a great come back vs Menlo, a wild punt return that pulled out the win over Whitworth, and then a solid win at Willamette that push the ‘Cats to 7-2 and gave Linfield a piece of the NWC title. I can remember the team buzzing after the Willamette game in regards to “who are we going to face in the playoffs?”, however, when the bracket came out the next day, Linfield was left out while PLU and Whitworth were in. Can you still remember where you were when you found out and can you recall how the team felt about the snub?

(Daryl Agpalsa) It’s funny, because I can remember that morning like it was yesterday. The team was obviously riding a “high” after wheeling of six wins in a row and a share of the NWC crown. None of us had the mindset that our season was over; we all just wanted to know “who was next?” I woke up early that morning and headed to Carney’s (Linfield AD, Scott Carnahan) office with some teammates because he was going to receive a call from the NCAA about the bracket. I remember standing in his office with Coach Locey and some other players and coaches waiting in anticipation while Carney took the call. He had a brief conversation with them, hung up, sighed, and said “You guy’s had a great season, but it’s over, we didn’t make it in.” The conversation progressed and we learned that Whitworth was to meet PLU in the first round and we were left out. We were shocked.

Obviously our immediate reaction as a team was a sense of disappointment and bitterness. We felt as a team, that we just hit our stride late in the season and we could play with anyone. Unfortunately, we just weren’t given the opportunity to do so. This served the returning players added motivation and desire to never experience that feeling again.

(WC11) Obviously the memory of 2001’s snub was in the front of everyone’s mind going into the spring and summer. When did the mantra of the 2002’s team of “Leave No Doubt” come about? Do you know who came up with it? Why did the seniors go with it, and how quickly did the team take to it?

(DA) Don’t know if everyone knows this or not, but the theme “Leave No Doubt” came through a conversation between Coach Hire and Linfield great Jody Tyrell. They spoke soon after the season ended and Jody congratulated Coach Hire on a great season, but apologized about not making it to the playoffs. He told Coach Hire, “Well, I guess they need to leave no doubt next year.” Coach Hire asked what he meant by that and he went on to say, “The team needs to leave no doubt and prove to the selection committee and the country that Linfield not only belonged in the playoffs, but with the top team’s in the country.” Coach Hire couldn’t have agreed with him more.

Coach Hire told me about this slogan, and I along with a large group of talented seniors quickly took to the saying. From there the slogan trickled to the underclassman and the slogan, “Leave No Doubt” snowballed. We referenced it to just about everything that off-season. Leave No Doubt in workouts, Leave No Doubt in practice, Leave No Doubt in the classroom, and most importantly Leave No Doubt that we could compete with just about anyone.

(WC11) To me it felt like “Leave No Doubt” was a line drawn in the sand by the players. It was pretty risky in that if the team didn’t pull out a win early in the season vs an excellent SOU team “Leave No Doubt” could have rang pretty hollow. How big was pulling out that win in double OT vs Southern Oregon and do you feel like that was a spring board to the remainder of the season?

(DA) I really don’t know how big the win was in terms of them being an NAIA team that shouldn’t count against us in Pool B play, but the game was a lot of fun. It’s not very often teams get to experience playoff caliber football in week two of the season! They gave us a pretty good whipping the year before at their house, I remember York and I not being able to play and forcing Coach Hire to play a lot of lineman out of position. It was a bitter loss, since we were told it influenced the committee in leaving us out of the 2001 playoffs. It was because of these factors that the Southern Oregon game served as a sense of motivation, for most of the team, heading into next season.

The win really solidified our thoughts as a team knowing the only team that could beat us was ourselves, and we knew if we prepared well and executed the regular season should take care of itself.



(WC11) Speaking of the 2002 regular season, after the SOU game, I don’t think Linfield fans saw a team run through a schedule like that in a very long time. The game up at PLU the following week was tight but that 2002 team just physically punished teams during the season. Of course winning is the objective but did that group take a little extra pride in trying to, as 2002 senior Defensive End Chad Barrett put it “destroy teams”?

(DA) It was a very passionate team that was encompassed of about 20 plus seniors. One of the very few teams that had the mindset, if we executed, we didn’t have to worry about the score it would take care of itself. That team had pretty lofty goals and wanted to start a trend that would hopefully carry over into the playoffs. I truly believe the 2002 team wanted to be remembered and stand as the new standard of excellence for the Wildcat teams to come. We honestly had one goal, to win a national championship.

(WC11) All phases of that team were great but to me what stood out the most was the offensive line play. You guys executed so well but it seemed like that group had a bit of a mean streak in it. Can you tell us what made that offensive line so darn good?

(DA) Two things, experience and great coaching. People need to remember that all of us, beside Jeff (York), were part of the same recruiting class. Most of us had started for a number of years together and we had great chemistry with one another. You know we had four linemen, excluding myself, and two tight ends that loved to finish people! What a luxury that doesn’t come around very often! I remember everyone being anxious about receiving our game evaluation on Monday to see who had the most RBI’s (pancakes) and knockdowns so they could have bragging rights for the rest of the week! It probably didn’t hurt that we had three running backs that could have started anywhere in the nation!

As a group we knew what was expected of us on every play and what adjustments we need to make, to the defense’s we saw, to be successful. That’s a testament to our leader and O-line coach, Doug Hire. He was our backbone and did a phenomenal job preaching preparation and execution. He worked tirelessly for us and the program making sure that we were always put in a position to be successful. In my humble opinion, he’s probably one of the best kept secrets in college football.

(WC11) Let’s talk about the ’02 post-season. The '02 senior group had back-to-back years of disappointment with the Central playoff game from 2000 and the playoff snub of 2001. Just how good did it feel playing at the ‘Catdome and unloading on the Wartburg Knight (Iowa) 52-15 during the ‘Cats first game of that playoffs? In some ways was that an explosion of two years of frustrations or just another game?

(DA) I would be lying if I said it was just another game. Our coach’s preached, “It’s just another game” and “take one game at a time” mentality, but as you said all of our seniors were part of the ’00 and ’01 disappointments. We were a confident group going into that game. We were battled tested and knew how to respond to adversity, that’s why we went to Linfield, to play in big games. For the two weeks we spent preparing for the Knights all we heard about was their defense. They played very physical and fast, and gave up two rushing touchdowns all season. We viewed it as a great challenge for our front seven to see how we competed with the best. As a team, we were excited about having the opportunity the play on a national stage and take a step forward as a program at the Division III level.


(WC11) I hate to bring up a bad memory but the following week was the West Region Finals vs Saint John’s (Mn.) and it turned out to be the end of the 2002 season in a bitter 21-14 loss. The Johnnies did execute their game plan very well and the ‘Cats did catch some untimely bad breaks. I’m sure there are things you feel the ‘Cats could have done better that game but looking back now is it satisfying knowing that 2002 team reestablished the ‘Cats on the Division III landscape as a yearly national contender?

(DA) I believe for the rest of my days, that game will be a tough pill to swallow. No one likes to lose, but there is a big difference between a better team beating you and you beating yourself. I take nothing away from them; they executed and played solid football. Unfortunately, we struggled executing and made several untimely mistakes. Falling short of our goals hurts, but for better or worse, that’s the beauty of football. We always have an opportunity to learn something from the game, and take those life lessons with us. Next question.

(WC11) Understand why you would want to move on. While football is a team game I would like to touch on your individual honors after the 2002 season. You were named 1st team All-American with four different organizations (AFCA, d3football.com, H-P, and Football Gazette). That’s a pretty incredible feather in your cap and still has to feel great. I know you’re a pretty humble guy but I want you to put yourself over a little bit, brag about yourself, and tell us what made you such a damn good offensive guard.

(DA) I really don’t mind bragging at all to be honest with you. If I had to put my finger on it, I can list 8 reasons why I was such an amazing guard and why I was recognized as a consensus All-American. Erik Moen, Jeff York, Josh Dill, Justin Buckner, Luke Buchheit, Marcus Ward, Doug Hire, and Tramaine Payne were the eight reasons. I know everyone has their own opinion, but being named an All American, as an O lineman, is the consummate team award to me. Any true lineman knows they cannot excel without great players and coaches around them. I was so lucky to be apart of a group of brothers that trusted each other, knew what each other was thinking, and would run through walls for one another. That’s what made me the best, because WE were.

(WC11) So after you wrapped up your playing career you jumped into coaching right away in assisting Coach Hire and the offensive line from 2003-2006. Tell us about your experience in transitioning from a player to coach and what were some of the big lessons you learned from being on the Linfield staff.

(DA) The transition from player to coach was a very eye opening experience. I was able to see the amount of work and dedication that our coaches put into planning each and every week. As a player, I was amazed at the amount of work we did practicing and preparing for teams. Yet, I had no idea our coaches spent three to four times the amount of time working and preparing!! It’s truly amazing the sacrifices they make in their lives to make Linfield football a priority. That staff will never be out worked.

I’ve said this before, but I’ve been blessed to have a great mentor. Coach Hire has taught me so much about the game and the qualities you need in order to be successful. The work ethic you need to have, great attention to detail, coaching the little things to be technically sound, and being personable are just a few things he has showed me. The longer I’m in this business; I realize that not everyone was as fortunate as I was to learn from a great coach. I count my blessings every day and try to pay it forward the best way I know how.

(WC11) Alright I have to ask about 2004. At what point did you know this was a team that had the goods to win it all? Can you recall your Salem,Va experience and how did it feel as a coach and Linfield Wildcat to win it all?

(DA) Well, going in to the ’04 season I knew that we had a ton of talent coming back, and a team that had been battled tested in the playoffs from the years past. The first two games that year were going to indicated how good we were going to be! We played Western Oregon for the first time in a long time and played UW-Stevens Point in Wisconsin for the first time ever. Our team went out there and rolled against a solid WOU team and came from behind to beat a strong Pointers squad. From then on, the team just started to go through the competition. I realized that team had the goods to win it all when 40 point wins were becoming a habit. They were truly a special group. Salem, Va. was everything I hoped it would be, besides the field sucking! You know for so long you dream about being there and having the opportunity to play for a championship, and to be lucky enough be part of it was truly a humbling experience. A one word summary on how it felt to win it all, sweet!

(WC11) Let’s move on to after the 2006 season. Any good young coach has aspirations to make their mark and move up the coaching ladder and after 4 seasons as a coach at Linfield an opportunity came open when former Linfield Wildcat and now head coach of the Hamline Pipers, Jim Good, contacted you about their offensive line coaching job. Did you know right away that Hamline was the job for you or was it a little nerve wracking leaving Linfield to a different program in a different part of the country? Can you tell us what your experience was in taking the Hamline job?

(DA) When Jim contacted me about the Hamline position I was excited about the opportunity to pursue my dream of coaching, although it was not an easy decision at all to be honest with you. Especially when he wanted to know in a week if I would drop everything and move out there! Picking up and moving is never easy, especially since I have grown roots in Oregon. There were a lot of issues that came along with taking the job, leaving my friends and family, leaving my comfort zone, and let’s face it moving to MINNESOTA. The weather’s just a little bit different here! I remember having many conversations with T Payne and Jimmy in T’s Jacuzzi, sorting out the pros and cons. I talked with as many people as I could to get their perspective and opinion on everything, it really helped. What it really came down to is never living a life of regret and wondering “what if”. Change is a scary place, but it always finds a way to work itself out.

(WC11) The MIAC is a fine football conference and we all know SJU has been the top dog for some time. Bethel has won back to back conference titles, Concordia has been to the playoffs in recent years, and St. Olaf’s has been a contender too. What do you see as the feature for Hamline football over the next 3-4 years?

(DA) That was the intriguing thing about heading to Minnesota, the opportunity to compete in the MIAC and against playoff caliber teams on a week to week basis. I’m not one that looks too far in the future and make predictions. One of the best things that I have learned from Linfield is to take it “one game at a time, one day at a time”, and that’s the same approach I’ve taken here at Hamline. I preach to our players on getting better each and everyday, whether on or off the field; to be a better teammate, a better student, and most importantly a character individual. If we take care of the little things, everything else should take care of itself.

(WC11) Last question. “Leave No Doubt” the Linfield faithful still love that slogan and love that 2002 team. What was it about that team that still holds such a strong hold on the Wildcat faithful where that team has become borderline iconic?

(DA) I really can only say what I know and the ’02 team was a team with no ego’s or individuals, kids with great character, and players who believed and played their hearts out for one another. It’s was a blessing to be apart of, and I have taken so many wonderful memories and friendships with me. To me, that team truly stood for everything “Linfield football” stands for. Other than that, you should ask the Linfield faithful what it is, I haven’t the faintest idea.

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Previous Red and Purple Interviews:
Pacific AD: Ken Schumann: Football Back at Pacific?
Linfield SID: Kelly Bird
SOU former Star Running Back: Dusty McGrorty
Linfield Stand-Out Defensive End: Kelly Bertrand
Central Dutch's Miracle/Mishap in The Mud: Reid Evans

One week away from Linfield Legends Month!

Next Monday will be the start of Linfield Legends month on Catdomealumni.com. For those of you who are new to the monthership for the past two years I’ve used the month of May to post up video clips of standout Wildcats of past years. For me, it’s a blast to go through the old clips and appreciate what these former players did during their careers at Linfield.

One thing is for certain is that the production values of the video clips for this year’s batch of Legends is way beyond my first Legends clip that I posted up two years ago of Running Back Gary McGarvie. Gary was such an incredible player that I feel bad that A) I missed a number of standout runs that I overlooked on the old highlight tapes, and B) my production values sucked.

So here is May’s line up of Legends that will bring back many great memories for any long time Linfield fans:

May 5th: Joe Dominey, Defensive Tackle, 1990-94

I’ll speak more on Joe later but he was a force of nature on the defensive line and his blend of speed and power made him a unique player for those great Linfield teams of the early 90’s.

May 12th: Joey Rector, Running Back, 1992-95

Like Carl Haberberger, I find that Joey was very underrated as a dominate running back for the ‘Cats. Joe had uncanny strength and great balance. Overall, Joey is 2nd in all time rushing TD’s in Linfield long history of stand-out running backs. IMO, he just might have the greatest single rushing TD in Linfield history vs Puget Sound in 1995. Joey broke off a big 70-yard TD run where he literally ran over a DB in the open field 10-yards out before punching it in. The only angle of this run on tape is from the crow’s nest but it’s still amazing to watch that run, bad angle and all.

May 19th: Darrin Causey, Linebacker, 1990-94

Linfield has a long…long list of incredible linebackers to man the Wildcat defense but one the finest was Darrin Causey. Darrin wasn’t terribly intimidating when you first saw him in pads but his demeanor and style of play scared the hell out every team that had to contend with him. Causey had everything you could want in a linebacker, leadership, great instincts, playmaking ability, toughness, speed, and was just a great tackler.

May 26th: David Russell, Running Back, 2000-2002

Where do you start with D.Russ? For Linfield fans, David has almost reached a level of mythical proportions. Every single characteristic of why Linfield football is so embraced by its fan base was embodied by #25. Humble, blue collar, tough, durable, team focused, and a winner. An incredible running back and person.

A couple of notes: Yes, I know that I’ve gone through 4 running backs over the past couple of years. That’s my basis towards the running game. Next season I’m going to try to highlight an offensive lineman and a QB on the offensive side of the ball.

Also, I know there was many, many, many great Linfield player’s pre-1990. My video vault only goes so far back. I would do back flips if I could score highlight tapes of seasons pre-1990. If you can spare a copy please let me know.

Calling all Coaches

One of the most popular features of Catdomealumni.com is our Coaching Page were we list our Linfield football alumni and where they are currently coaching. It’s not unique to have colleges produce coaches but what is unique about Linfield football is the continuity of Linfield’s staff in where each new coach that starts their career after college has been taught the same philosophies that Coach Durham and Coach Rutschman built the program on some 52 years ago.

In looking at my list I know that I’m missing a number of former ‘Cats that are still out there coaching football, basketball, track, etc. So I’m depending on you to help me get closer to having a complete list of where these former ‘Cats are at today.

So take a few minutes and take a look at the coaching page. If you don’t see your name on the list or know of someone who is not on the list please drop me a note (catdomealumni@yahoo.com) or leave a comment so we can add their name to our growing list.

‘Catdome!

Wildcat11

Player Blog: Travis Masters "A Player's Preview"

Junior Slot Back/Running Back/Kick Returner Travis Masters was nice enough to give us his personal 2008 Linfield preview right before the 'Cats kick off their spring drills. Travis was named a first team NWC slot back and kick returner this past season and Wildcat fans are expecting big things in 2008 from Number 5.
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Heading into my final season at Linfield, I am very excited for the 2008 season to get under way. In my opinion, this years’ team is going to be extremely dynamic. The mindset that our squad has been showing this off-season is pure hunger to get back on top to being the national powerhouse that many of us have been accustom to. I don’t know if I’ve seen a group of guys display the kind of tenacity that I’ve seen during our morning workouts the past few months.

When talking about this team I can’t help but to start with our offensive line. These guys work so hard and often times their efforts go unrecognized. As a core offensive group, they will be the most experienced players on the field and as a skill player this is exciting to me because we all know that without them we (skill players) can’t do what we do. Seniors Jared Hinkle and Jason Bolin are just a few of the great players and leaders that have emerged for all of the big men up front. This group of guys will allow us to either pound the rock or pick teams apart with the pass game.

Our skill players on the offensive side are going to be an exciting group to watch. At the receiver position we are probably the least experienced but have more speed than we’ve seen in previous years. Senior, John Torsey is going to be a great deep threat for us and junior, Trevor Patterson catches everything that comes to him. I’ll be thrilled to have these two guys line up outside of me in the slot. At running back we have a number of guys that can carry the load. A healthy Jon Montalvo will return after sitting out the majority of last season with a hamstring injury, Dan Lever will get our tough yards, and transfer Reggie Ford is going to give teams a fit. As a whole, the running backs have been hands down the hardest working group in the weight room. It really is remarkable to see guys motivate one another the way they do. As for the guy who is going to hold the reins to our offense, I can’t say enough good things about him. Aaron Boehme has an excellent arm and he adds versatility to our offense with his legs. Having Boehme at quarterback is going to allow us to do a lot more as an offensive system than in the past.

On the other side of the ball we took a big hit with seniors Brian Mehl and Keone Tawata graduating. However, their replacements will not disappoint this year. Sophomore Bryce Comfort and hard-hitting senior Tyler McCann will man the safety positions. Comfort is an extremely savvy player for only being a sophomore and he is comparable to Brian Mehl, which is saying a lot. The strongest part of our defense is probably our linebackers led by Jaymin Jackson and Alex Tkachuk. Jaymin is a great leader for us and is one of the most electrifying defensive players that we’ve seen in the last few years. Our defensive line is also a group that will be a force to reckon with. Returning from a serious injury suffered last spring, Scott Olsen will be a beast for us on the defensive front. Also senior Taylor Summers is coming off of a great year as well as junior Ian Estrada. Junior Paul Nishizaki and Sophomore Eric Hedin will also provide great support for our defensive line. It should also be mentioned that this year we have a very strong recruiting class for the defensive front.

This year we will be playing with a chip on our shoulders. As seniors, we want our team to play with the attitude that we will not be denied another conference championship or a playoff birth. It’s important for us to have the mindset that we are never satisfied with where we are at until there is nothing more that we can do. We’ve been working hard and it will show come the 2008 season. Get ready for a good one!

"Catdome"

Travis Masters

Class of 2008

Player Blog: Dan Lever "Gameday at the Catdome"

Welcome back to our 4th installment of the Linfield player blog series. Our blogger for today is Linfield running back Dan Lever. To me, Dan is a classic Linfield Wildcat football player. He came to the program as a freshman and put in hard work as a scout team player, then the next year he worked in on special teams, and as a Junior this past season Dan played a big part in the Wildcat offense as the featured short yardage back. Dan lead the team in rushing TD’s with 4 and converted numerous first downs in short yardage situation.

Dan is another example of what makes Linfield great. He understands why Linfield is important to so many people and that he represents more than just himself. I asked Dan to write about playing at the ‘Catdome and I feel he nailed the way so many of us ‘Cats feel on those fall Saturday afternoons.

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It’s very hard to describe in words what Maxwell Field and Memorial Stadium (or the Catdome) means to me or any player past or present. It’s something I think we all hold very close to us, and I don’t think that it makes a difference if you stepped on the field last year or fifty years ago. We all get that eerie chill that runs down our spines on those sunny Saturday afternoons when the sun is high in the sky, and Linfield is kicking off.

When we lace our cleats up on game day, we all experience many emotions. One emotion that stays constant is the staunch belief that we are going to win. This is not because we are cocky or arrogant people, but we’re confident (especially in our own backyard). The reason we feel this way is because we are surrounded by good people and the preparation to win has been done. On Saturdays, we get the opportunity to go out on the field and be a part of something that’s bigger than we are as individuals. For me, the juices really start to flow when we run out for warm-ups. I know this is going to sound corny, but I get this kind of feeling like the calm before a big storm. Opposing teams come onto our field, and they have these beautifully choreographed warm-ups. They hoot and holler and prance around like they are the Dallas Cowboys. We simply run out and circle up, stretch a little, and then go do things the Linfield way.

There are a lot of things that contribute to our game day atmosphere that are really awesome. The crazy student section, the jumbotron, and the massive sea of purple and red behind the bench in the stands all combine to create an awesome game experience. Also for me, it’s a very nostalgic feeling because my roots are in McMinnville, Oregon. I get to be apart of a tradition that both my grandfather and great grandfather were apart of. I also take a lot of pride in the fact that I can share the same field with some of Linfield’s great players and coaches. I take pride in the fact that I get to be a mere pebble on the great wall that is Linfield football.

When people show up on Saturday, they aren’t looking at bunch of scholarship athletes pursuing a degree that they won’t finish. Nobody is going to go in the first round of the NFL draft or win the Heisman trophy. When people enter the Catdome, they are not just looking at 125 men in purple and white. They are looking at:

-Men that play football for the love of the game
-Men that are on track to graduate
-Men that contribute to society in a positive way
-Men of integrity, good character, and valor

My only regret about playing in the Catdome is that it will eventually end. But when it does, I will get a new opportunity. I will get the opportunity to take the lessons of team work, perseverance, hard work, and unselfishness, which I have learned on the field, and apply them in the “real world”. This will be difficult but anything good is worth the work. The Catdome has taught us all that.

“Go Cats”
-Dan lever #27

Blooper Reel: Coach Ron August

Longtime special teams coach Ron August retired this past season after a stellar 42-year coaching career in the high school and college ranks. Coach August spent his last 12 years with his alma mater, Linfield, as the 'Cats special teams guru and produced a number of all-conference and all-american specialists. Ron is not only a great coach but is just a great person and well known for his sense of humor. The video above speaks for itself.

Moment In History: 2001 vs Lewis & Clark

During the past two seasons at Linfield home games the Wildcats would run "Today in Wildcat Histoy" spots that was presented by local advertisers. The below clip is a rough cut as the final spot had a different into, outro, and music was embedded in the clip but the action was the same.

Here is the clip that was ran during the Oct 20, 2007 home game vs L&C:

Oct. 20, 2001

Linfield rolled up a school-record 931 all-purpose yards during a 63-20 rout of the Lewis & Clark Pioneers at Maxwell Field. Marty Williams rushed for 125 yards and two touchdowns and Tyler Matthews passed for 373 yards and three TDs to pace the Wildcats. As a team, Linfield passed for 511 yards, rushed for 282 yards and also gained 118 yards on kickoff, punt and interception returns.

'Cat Tracker: Alumni News

Former Linfield Wildcats have been making moves in the coaching ranks and in the indoor football leagues this past winter/early spring. Here is your 'Cat Tracker Update:

Former Linfield Offensive Lineman Alecki Pasqua (1997) has recently been named as the offensive line coach of the Portland State Vikings. Alecki has been working hard since leaving Linfield with stops at University of Oregon, Western Washington, Western Oregon, and now has landed his highest profile gig for the Vikings. Congrats to Alecki!

Longtime Linfield Coach and former player (1974) Wes Suan has followed his friend June Jones back to the mainland and to SMU to assume the running back coach duties for the Mustangs. Coach Suan was a fixture at the 'Catdome for 19 years in various duties for the Linfield offense and was also the associate athletic director. Coach moved back home to the islands following the 1998 Linfield season and went to work for Hawaii's head man, June Jones.

A trio of former Linfield greats are in the Boise area looking to make the cut on the Boise Burn's Arena 2 roster. WR Casey Allen (2005) and DB/WR/Holder/Return man/Coach Brandon Hazenberg (2005) are looking to return for their 2nd year with the Burn while former All-Conference fixture Chris Boock (cornerback) will be trying to crack the Burn roster for the first time. Brandon will also be returning to the Linfield coaching staff this next year for his 3rd season on staff. Boock (2005) has been on staff for the West Salem High Titans, who had their best season in program history last year when WSH made it to the 6A state semi-finals.

Linfield fan favorite and conference stand-out Thomas Ford (2004) is down in Prescott, Arizona breaking in yet another new indoor franchise. A Linfield role model and former stand-out running back is looking to help lead the Arizona Adrenaline of the American Indoor Football Association in their first year of existence. Last year, Thomas was an offensive leader for the 1st year Alaska Wild of the Intense Football League. T.Ford spent his first two years with the Tri-Cities Fever (2004-2005) where played a vital role in the Fever capturing the National Indoor Football League's championship in their first year as a franchise. Then, he helped usher the Fever's move into the Arena Football League 2 the following season. Thomas will be back on staff next season for the 'Cats as running backs coach and we're thankful we have him.

Former Linfield All-American and D3 Player of the Year, Brett Elliott, is currently on the Injured Reserved for the defending Arena League champions, The San Jose Sabercats. This is Brett's first year on the Sabercats roster and is looking to break into the indoor game. In the years after Linfield, Brett signed a free agent contract with the San Diego Chargers of the NFL where he spent two training camps competing for a roster spot, and also spent a full season in the now shut down NFL Europe where Brett played for Germany's Rhein Fire.

If you know if any other former 'Cat involved with football in a coaching or playing capacity please give me the iggy on what they are up to: catdomealumni@yahoo.com

Linfield Review: Cats lend helping hand

Just came across this article in Linfield's student run newspaper, The Linfield Review, and here is another great example of the incredible people that reside in our football program.

In an article in the previous edition of The Review, it focused on Junior Darcy Thompson. Darcy recently had a baby boy and decided that she needed to complete her education in order to give her and her baby the best chance of success in the future. The college doesn't provide on-campus living for family living so she moved into a nearby apartment. The article briefly mentioned that Darcy didn't have much furniture in her apartment for her and her baby boy.

Upon reading this Linfield Offensive Line Coach Doug Hire rallied members of the football team to help pitch in and provide Darcy with an apartment full of the necessary furniture to make Darcy and her baby more at home. You can read the story the football team provided here.

We're all very proud of the program for their continued success on the field but hearing these stories of the Wildcats off the field should make fans of Linfield football even more proud.

Great job Wildcats!!!!

Linfield Review Article: Football coach, players dontate time, furniture
Linfield Review Article: Student mom faces housing challenges

March 3rd: New Videos For Catdomealumni.com!

March 3rd 2008 will be the kick off of the new video season for Catdomealumni.com. Every Monday from March till the end of August Catdomealumni.com will be posting up new videos for your enjoyment.

March and April will be bringing you most of the video highlights of all 9 games of the 2007 season.

May will be Linfield Legends month as I have already started pulling clips of two legendary Wildcat running backs, a playmaking Linebacker, and a defensive tackle that was a force of nature.

June we'll wrap up the 2007 highlight DVD with the Whitworth and L&C games and start getting into some new specials (2008 Spring Football, 2005 Whitewater vs Linfield revisted, 2008 football camp, Big Hits III, etc).

To jump the season off Catdomealumni.com will be posting up the team introduction clip that ran before kickoff at every home game this past season. It's a fun 2 minute clip that we hope we can top this next season.

Be sure to let your fellow Wildcat fan know to drop in next Monday to get your Linfield fix.

Senior Moment: Rodd Booth

During this past season at Linfield home games, The local McMinnville Quizno's sponsored quick interviews with Senior Linfield football players called "Senior Moments". These spots were ran during timeouts, halftime, or pre-game. I'll post up the raw footage of these clips from time to time (without the intro/outro bumpers and background music) with the latest being cornerback, Rodd Booth.

Player Blog: Cory Ellis "There is no place like CATDOME"

We're back again with our player blog series and our blogger this time is Junior wide receiver Cory Ellis. Cory has an interesting story to me. He's a transfer from Oregon State where he was a member of the Oregon State National Championship baseball team and he's a two-sport athlete for the Wildcats.

Cory was primed to have a great 2007 football season after starting vs Western Oregon at Wide Receiver but a hip injury during Willamette shut Cory down for the majority of 2007. However, earlier in 2007 Cory had a stand out season on the diamond being named 2nd team All-NWC as a second baseman for the 'Cats and is a looking to help lead the 'Cats back to the top of the NWC this spring.

He’ll be entering the 2008 football season as a senior and I look for Cory to be a big playmaker for our ‘Cats but for now he’s busy patrolling the right side of the infield.

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Unlike the majority of my teammates, I did not come to Linfield directly out of high school. I spent my first two years of college at Oregon State where I was a member of the baseball team. Although I found an enormous amount of team success (Two Pac-10 titles and a National Championship), my playing time was very limited. Once I had made the decision to transfer, I began looking at different colleges. The thing that set Linfield apart was the chance for me to compete in two sports. Coach Smith and Carnahan were both very accepting of me playing the two sports.

I had a lot of anxiety coming to Linfield. I didn’t know one person on the football team and I hadn’t played the sport for 3 years. That is what makes Linfield so special. I was welcomed by everyone and found it very easy to fit in. I had a lot of catching up to do though. There are so many great traditions at Linfield that I had no idea about. Every past and present Linfield football player knows what I am talking about. The sideline reminders, the after practice chants, the pregame prayer, the alumni game, Catjacks, and the legendary “Catdome.” I truly believe that these are the reasons that Linfield continues to have so much success on the football field. In the 52 years of the winning streak, we continue to keep the same core values of Linfield Football.

Another thing that sets Linfield apart is the coaching staff. It is amazing to look at who I have been coached by over the past two years. I get to sit in kickoff return meetings with Coach Rutschman who coached Linfield to 3 football and 2 baseball titles. My head baseball coaches have been Scott Carnahan (14 time League Coach of the Year) and Scott Brosius (3 World Series titles with the Yankees). If I add up all of the Linfield National Championships my coaches have been apart of it comes to over 20. Linfield College coaches have very impressive resumes.

But what really makes Linfield athletics great are the past and present players. The guys here have such a team-first attitude. The goal for all of us is to have as much team success as possible and not worry about the individual awards. It is amazing how much support we receive from former players. They seem to always be watching us and making sure we are getting things done. I have introduced myself to some former players and they go “Yeah, I know who you are.” I wasn’t even a star player and they still know. The saying is true, “Once a CAT, always a CAT.”

I would love to see all of you football fans come out and support the baseball team this spring. It looks like it could be an exciting year. After the spring I will be getting ready for my final football season. With baseball and football, 2008 has a chance to be another great year at Linfield.

“There is no place like CATDOME”
--Cory Ellis
Class of 2008

In Your Face

Yeah, this embedded clip isn't about football but there was nothing better than seeing volleyballers getting pie faced. Enjoy the weekend everyone!

via Awful Announcing

Player Blog: Jared Hinkle "EXPECT TO WIN"

Welcome back to our second player blog entry on Catdomealumni.com's ADvantage Catdome. I contacted Linfield Offensive Tackle Jared Hinkle earlier in the week and his response was almost immediate. Jared was a 1st team all-NWC selection last season and will be entering his Senior season this fall.

With these blogs all I'm asking the players to do is to tell me about their Linfield experience and as you can and will read, Linfield is just as strong as ever in helping shape hard working and excellent young men.

When I read what Jared and Jaymin have to say it makes me even more proud to be a Linfield Wildcat and I didn't think that was possible.

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No words can truly describe what exactly this program has meant to me. Anyone who has ever had a hand in any part of Linfield Football knows exactly what I am talking about. You really have to see it and live it for yourself in order to fully appreciate what it is. But if I had to sum up the Linfield Football experience in one word, it would be family. It is this sense of family that has made my Linfield experience so special.

It‘s not just the coaches and players that make the Linfield Football family special, it is everyone who has ever been to a game at the Catdome or anywhere else for that matter. There is no better feeling than getting ready to take the field up in Spokane, down in California, or over in Texas, and looking up in the stands and seeing more people in the Wildcat section than the home team has in theirs. It is support like that from the parents, friends, and alumni that really makes you feel a part of the Linfield Football family, no matter where you are.

The coaches we have here I would put up against any other coaching staff in the nation, both in terms of their football knowledge and their effort. But that isn’t what makes them special. It is the family atmosphere they have created and strengthened over the years that really sets them apart from anyone else. We know they are doing everything they possibly can to allow us to succeed both on and off the field, which sometimes means neglecting their own families in the process. And while I am sure they would love to see their own families more, I don’t think they mind too much because they see us as a part of their family.

As good as our fans and coaches are, the best part of the Linfield experience for me has been the players. I know that the 124 other guys I go to work with every day are going to do everything they can to make this team successful. No one is getting paid to be here and none of us are going to be first round draft picks. We are here because we want to be a part of something special. We want to be in the weight room 6 days a week pushing ourselves to get that one more rep or that one more set in. We want to be up at 6 in the morning in the Spring, practicing before the sun is even up. We want to be out running gassers in the middle of the summer, when the temperature is up near 100 degrees. We don’t do it because it’s fun, we do it for our brothers, because we don’t want to let them down. We do it because we EXPECT TO WIN. Some other schools may have more talented players, bigger stadiums, or better facilities that us, but no one is going to work harder or prepare more than we do.

Thank you to every member of the Linfield Football family who has supported us in the past and will continue to do so in the future, we really appreciate it. 2008 should be a great year to be a Wildcat.

-Jared Hinkle
Class of 2009

Player Blog: Jaymin Jackson "Why I came to Linfield"

We're starting a new player blog segment on Catdomealumni.com's ADvantage Catdome. I wanted to give the opportunity to current players to share their Linfield experience with the fans of Linfield football and hope to give our Catdome faithful an insight on the players they support and cheer for on Saturdays in the fall.

I contacted Sophomore Linebacker Jaymin Jackson about being our first player blogger and within hours he had poured out his thoughts to me. Jay had a stand-out sophomore season and was rewarded by being named to the Northwest Conference 2nd team defense. As you will read below Jaymin is very passionate and proud to be a Linfield Wildcat and I'm looking forward to watching him next fall.

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The reason why I came to Linfield was because I wanted to be a part of a program that mattered. Of course winning and national titles matter but what truly mattered to me were the things that most people don’t really get a chance to see.

Things like the pride that the former players, coaches, and current players have in this program. Knowing that the coaches are truly motivated to make you a better person than what you came to them as. Knowing that it matters that you play and practice as hard as you can because you have Linfield across your chest. Knowing that if the game is on the line that you EXPECT TO WIN. Having no doubt in your heart that your brother next you is playing for the team not his self. Developing a work ethic that none have come close to matching. Driving by the football offices at 2:00am and seeing lights still on. Busting your butt in the weight room and not thinking anything about it because that’s just how it is at Linfield. Seeing guys like Kyle Warner who break their back, not for individual gratitude but for the team. I came here to be a part of a family that will last a lifetime.

I wanted to become a better person, better football player and WIN. I wanted to be a part of something that was pure and not tarnished with selfishness and greed. I wanted to step on the field with 125 guys who it mattered to as much as it did me. This is the reason why I wanted to be a part of Linfield's program. Being able to love something as much as I do; Linfield football. I can honestly say that I don’t believe that you can find a place where it matters as much as it does here. You truly can’t put a price tag on what you will learn from being a part of a program like Linfield's, that’s why I came to Linfield.

I feel privileged and blessed to be able to wear the purple and white. I can’t wait to strap it up next season… and the cats of '08 are ready to get back on top and keep the streak rolling on.

CATDOME!

-Jaymin Jackson

Linfield Class of 2010

Red and Purple Interview: Pacific University AD Ken Schumann

Welcome back to the Red and Purple Interview on Catdomealumni.com. This is our first interview for 2008 and I had the absolute pleasure to trade email with long time Pacific University Athletic Director, Ken Schumann. For us that follow football in the Northwest Conference over the past few years there have been rumors about the return of football at Pacific. So instead of just let rumors float around I thought I’d go to the driving force behind Boxer athletics to find out more.

AD Schumann was great in being open to talk and I wanted to publicly thank him for taking the time out to give all of us the scoop about Boxer football and more.
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(Wildcat 11) Thank you AD Schumann for joining us here at Catdomealumni.com. For the past three years fans that have been following Northwest Conference football have been hearing rumors and have seen the occasional article about Pacific considering a return to the gridiron. As of today, where does football stand on the priority list at Pacific? Have you been able to gain the support of the faculty and Board of Trustees?

(Ken Schumann) Football is a priority along with several other initiatives which we have been implementing over the past couple of years with the goal of upgrading the athletic program as a whole. Since the completion of our Business Plan in 2005 we have been in a fundraising phase. Upon successful completion of the fundraising process we would then take the football initiative before the University Faculty for a vote. If that vote is positive the initiative would then go to the Board of Trustees for final approval.

(WC 11) In reading the article, “University considers return of football” from Pacific Magazine in spring of ’07, it mentions that estimated start up costs would be in the neighborhood of $1.25 million dollars. How close are you to this number and how has the Pacific alumni base responded to the fundraising campaign?

(KS) We currently are slightly over halfway toward our goal for funding start-up costs over a three-year period. All of the support we have received so far has come from alumni and friends of Pacific.

(WC 11) In 2008 the NWC will now be awarded with an automatic playoff bid for our conference champion. However, many teams in our conference still face the big issue of scrambling for non-conference opponents each season to fill their schedule and wind up either playing NAIA or DII teams or having to take costly flights to the Mid-West. Have the other football members of the NWC been in full support of football coming back to Forest Grove? Do you think the NWC is in great need of an 8th member to help bolster our schedules and to help alleviate some travel costs?

(KS) From the feedback I have received from other football playing members of the NWC there is solid support for the sport of football returning to Pacific. I believe that other conference members understand that it would be of great benefit to the football institutions to have a football program at Pacific for a variety of reasons; scheduling, budgeting and enhanced competition within the conference are just a few of the benefits.

(WC 11) From an outside perspective it appears that Pacific is in a transformation period within the athletic department. The beautiful Lincoln Park Athletic Complex opened up this past fall with soccer. In a short time, the spring sports teams move into their new digs. It feels that the University is making a push to increase the profile of athletics on campus. Is that a fair statement and do you see Lincoln Park being the future home of Boxer Football?

(KS) I would agree that athletics at Pacific are in a transformation period. It is my goal as Director of Athletics to have programs which are very competitive within the Northwest Conference and Division III across the board. The new facilities at Lincoln Park are a part of that effort and are first class in every way. If we are successful in bringing football back to Pacific the home for the program at least in the short term will be Hillsboro Stadium. I do not anticipate football being played at the facilities in Lincoln Park.

(WC 11) The NWC is rather diverse in its style of play, and this is probably putting the cart in front of the horse, but do you have an idea of what style of football you want your future Head Coach to bring to Pacific?

(KS) My belief is that the style of play is secondary to other characteristics the coaching staff would bring that are even more important. First, the Head Coach needs to be an individual of strong character and one who understands and is committed to the D-III philosophy and fits with the philosophy and culture of Pacific. Also, the head coach and staff need to be strong in the area of recruiting and committed to recruiting student-athletes who will be successful academically, athletically and socially at Pacific. As far as style goes, I would think that it would be difficult for a start-up program to have much success with a run first philosophy. Spreading out defenses can be somewhat of an equalizer until the size, depth and athleticism in your program is built up.

(WC 11) This is a little off topic but there’s a movement on a national level within Division III that is looking at a possible split into a 4th division of classification. There is a lot of speculation and unanswered questions about who would want to move and how the divisions would be split. It appears that there are some clear philosophical differences between the newer membership in Division III and the old guard in terms of various regulations within the current DIII. Have you been involved in these discussions at this past National Convention and do you see Pacific and the NWC supporting a possible “Division IV” classification?

(KS) No I do not see the NWC or Pacific being in support of a Division IV or a possible subdivision of Division III. I believe that the conference is united in our belief of the merits of Division III.

(WC 11) OK, last question. With the best case scenario when can we expect the Boxers to take the field again? 2009, 2010?

(KS) If we are able to reach our fundraising goals in the next few months the most optimistic scenario would be to play in the fall 2009 season. However, the most likely scenario at this point is 2010. But again all of this is based on meeting our Business Plan goals for fundraising monies for three-year start-up costs as well as affirmative votes by the University Faculty and Board of Trustees. If those goals are not reached then we will not be bringing football back in the near future.

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Previous Red and Purple Interviews:

Linfield SID: Kelly Bird

SOU former Star Running Back: Dusty McGrorty

Linfield Stand-Out Defensive End: Kelly Bertrand

Central Dutch's Miracle/Mishap in The Mud: Reid Evans

Senior Moment: Andrew Woods

During this past season at Linfield home games, The local McMinnville Quizno's sponsored quick interviews with Senior Linfield football players called "Senior Moments". These spots were ran during timeouts, halftime, or pre-game. I'll post up the raw footage of these clips over the next couple of months (without the intro/outro bumpers and background music) with the first being of Cornerback, Andrew Woods.

NWC’s 2008 New Year Resolutions:

A small unknown fact is like many people, the football teams in the Northwest Conference also start each new year with a resolution to help guide their next 365 days of existence. Everybody knows that following a resolution is a pine-knot tough thing to do but our programs out in the far west are up to the task.

Catdomealumni.com’s investigators were able to uncover these New Year resolutions for the 2008 season and as your independent world wide news leader of all things Linfield football it took a few days to collate this information.

Menlo: To install cup holders in their visitor’s coaching box and to upgrade their sound system.

Since Menlo has to blow a great majority of their budget on flight when the Oaks travel to any away game that leaves very little left over for minor items….like facilities. However, Menlo has committed itself in 2008 to install new cup holders in their scissor lift….er…I mean coaching box and to upgrade their sound system to this sweet new Ipod docking station.

Willamette: The Bearcats 2008 resolution is to milk their first win over Linfield in eight years for everything its worth.

So far, they’re off to a great start with any article on their athletic site that deals with football has to mention their 1-point win over our Wildcats.

Lewis & Clark: Around Christmas, my sources were able to take this photo of a note left for Santa that was found in HC’s Chris Sulages office.

I know, I know…a note for Santa isn’t a New Year resolution but we’re going to go with it.

Puget Sound: To assemble the greatest collection of football talent ever assembled at the Division III level or to at least to maintain their great pre-season rhetoric.

Before the 2007 season, Coach Phil Willenbrock stated that the passing ability of his quarterbacks “is better than any I think I’ve ever had in Division III.” It must be nice to have quarterbacks that can both run and throw the ball. I’m just looking forward to read the UPS season preview this fall where he’s bound to say something along the lines of “our linebackers this year are incredible. Not only can they drop back in pass coverage but they can also play the run too.” The talent at UPS is crazy.

Pacific Lutheran: Start a new facial hair trend in Division 3 football.

The ‘Lutes gained media attention for their fast start and their sweet stashes during 2007. The Lute Seniors have narrowed their 2008 choices down to three: The Van Dyke, The Balbo, and The Napoleon III Imperial.

Whitworth: Deliver Redland’s Coach Maynard a batch of crap cupcakes to open the 2008 season.

As much as I rag on the Rats, they did get hosed by the DIII national selection committee when they were snubbed out of the ’07 playoffs. Redlands and Coach Maynard beat the Rats twice last season. The first time was the Dawg’s 24-12 victory over the Rats to open the ‘07 season and the second time was when Coach Maynard and the National Committee sunk the Rats ship in the playoff selection process.

Linfield: Get back to winning the darn conference.

Elliott to be a 'Cat once again.

Catdomealumni.com sources have let us know that former Linfield 2x All-American Quarterback, Brett Elliott (2005) has inked a deal with the defending Arena Bowl champions, The San Jose Sabercats. There hasn't been an official announcement as of yet but the news is expected to break in the next week or two.

San Jose's current QB, Mark Grieb is the incumbent starter (10th year with San Jose) and is a AFL stand-out. Stay tuned for more news later.

‘Cats will Cowboy Up for at least 2 more years

Linfield Sports and Linfield head coach, Joe Smith announced the 2008 football schedule on Thursday and our mystery opponent was revealed as none other than the Hardin Simmons Cowboys. There were some good guesses from the Linfield posters on the d3football.com northwest conference posting board but when it came down to it, Coach Jimmy Keeling and Coach Smith wanted to continue the series that currently stands at 1 win for each team.

The agreement will be for the next two seasons with Linfield traveling back to Abilene, Texas on September 13 to open their season and with the Cowboys flying back to the ‘Catdome in 2009. I’d like to give Coach Keeling “five alrights” for responding to Linfield’s request and continue a trend of top division III programs hooking up during non-conference play.

In giving the remainder of the slate the eye ball it looks like Linfield is going to have to put on the hard hat and grind out another challenging season. The ‘Cats will have the bye after HSU and have the home opener with long time NAIA rival the Raiders of Southern Oregon. SOU was a physical squad last season and I’m sure will be hyped up to take on Linfield in ’08.

After the SOU game, Linfield will have two more home games in a row with Menlo coming up on Oct 4th for their annual loss to Linfield before we really get down to brass tax. Oct 11th will have the Rats of Whitworth coming into the ‘Catdome with a 2 game winning streak over Linfield that disgusts me to the core. I’m not going to make excuses for the losses to the Rats but I’m not going to put a shine on it either…the losses to them have blown the past two years and it has to stop.

The ‘Cats have a short road trip on Oct 18th to L&C to see if the Pios will have taken any steps forward and then another big revenge game will follow the next week on the 25th with Willamette…nuff said.

Linfield will round out the season with two trips up to Tacoma to play in the Morgue on Nov 1st and then up at Sparks (PLU) for the season finally on the 15th. Sandwiched in-between is the final home game of the year with non-conference opponent, Western Oregon. I’m curious to see how WOU develops next season. They lose a huge senior class that has been responsible for bring WOU into respectability but they seem to have to have talent in the wings to reload rather then rebuild.

Overall, I’m excited with the different order of how the games will be played in 2008. Once again, Linfield has a monumental challenge in 2008 and every Linfield backer is excited to see how our ‘Cats respond.

Links:
Linfield Sports