Stanfield School District

       I've been very proud of the progress made by our high school athletic program over the past 4 years.  It's been one of the many bright spots in our school district.  Beginning with the hiring of former head football Coach Jay Zwiefelhofer five years ago - we committed to teaching our student athletes to compete the right way - with hard work, character and class.  Our athletic staff - from Mr. Johnson (high school athletic director) to our coaches - have consistently taught our student athletes the importance of competing the right way.  Winning, although nice, will never be the most important thing.

         This past weekend was a beautiful experience for our players, coaches and school community.  After losing a ton of talent last year, this years boys basketball team was suppose to be down.  However, with the leadership of head coach Daniel Sharpe and with hard work from his players, the team had a good year and played for the Blue Mountain Conference championship losing by three in a hard fought and well played game.  They finished 2nd in conference, and earned a #4 seed out of 16 teams going to state.  That's great!

But more importantly to me, our team, a long with the Stanfeild Tiger fans at districts, earned the conference sportsmanship award.  Amazing!

      Our basketball team is sitting one win away from a third consecutive trip to Oregon's 2A state tournament.  This is truly a testament to head coach Daniel Sharpe and the work he's done with his players.  Three consecutive trips to the state tournament would be unprecendented in Stanfield High School's basketball history.  Another trip to the state tournament would be great, but in my mind, this team has already proven themselves true competitors - and winners!  For all of us who have ever competed at anything . . . It's good to win and it's nice to have class, but there is nothing like winning with class!  Go Tigers!!