Over the last two seasons, the Tenino Beavers have won 19 games, made two state tournaments, and won their first league title since 2013.
This year, they are hoping to continue to build on that success, but they will have to do it with an array of new faces, including an entirely new coaching staff.
Earlier this month, Darren Tinnerstet took over as the head coach, succeeding Cary Nagel, who resigned in July after six years leading the Beavers.
While the last four weeks have been a quick turnaround for the Beavers, Tinnerstet has been pleased with how quickly they’ve adapted and learned the new system.
While Evergreen Conference MVP Dylan Spicer graduated, Tinnerstet is excited about the depth the Beavers have at running back.
In the backfield, Michael Vassar is slotted to step in as the “bruiser” of the bunch, while Lucas Watterson and Mikey Lanning have stood out in camp for their elusiveness and speed.
“That’s kind of a three-headed monster right there,” Tinnerstet said. “That’s a good problem to have.”
The Beavers are also expected to go to the air more than before, as Tinnerstet has mentioned needing different ways to spread the balls to his playmakers, including wide receiver Jack Burkhardt.
Leading the offense under center will be Cody Strawn, who has shown the ability to extend plays with his athleticism.
Former Capital head coach J.D. Johnson is leading the defense, and the unit’s overall speed has stood out in camp.
“With the pressure that we like to bring, we’re flying around,” Tinnerstet said. “We’re gonna cause some problems on defense, I can tell you that right now.”
And while it is year one for this staff, the expectations remain the same. Tinnerstet has emphasized that this team has the talent to remain near the top of the Evergreen Conference, and his players are on board.
“The kids’ work ethic has been very impressive,” Tinnerstet said. “I was a little nervous that they wouldn’t be used to our system and how we do things. But they’ve picked it up and run with it, so we’re good to go.”
