A season of hope for the Timberline Blazers
The Timberline Blazers finished the 2024 season with a solitary victory, leaving the program with a 1‑9 record that underscored the need for a swift turnaround. Yet the offseason brought a renewed sense of optimism as the team prepared to step onto the field for the 2025 campaign.
Head coach James Jones, now in his seventh year at the helm, has set a clear target: at least eight wins and a berth in the playoffs. He described the pursuit of that milestone as one of his most cherished moments in coaching, reflecting a personal stake in the team’s resurgence.
Central to the Blazers’ revival is Maurice ‘Mo’ Williams, a three‑star cornerback who committed to Washington before joining the program. Williams, who will wear jersey number 2, is expected to anchor the secondary and provide leadership that the coaching staff says transcends his on‑field contributions.
Returning quarterback Cameron Vongdara, who threw 17 touchdowns in the previous season, will again be the offensive catalyst. He will distribute the ball to senior wideouts Keaton Thomas and Davin Kirkwood, while the backfield will lean on workhorse Cooper Jones, though his availability may be limited early due to a knee issue. Junior King Pridgen is slated to step in as a backup.
The Blazers’ roster also boasts committed Oregon State offensive lineman Kataferu Galoia and defensive end Amacyn Savelio, adding depth on both sides of the ball. Their presence, combined with the experience of Vongdara, creates a balanced unit that coaches believe can compete against a challenging slate that includes matches against Bonney Lake, Prairie, and Peninsula.
Looking ahead
The season opener is set for September 4 at home against Stadium, kicking off at 7 p.m. The schedule, while demanding, is viewed as an opportunity to test the team early and build momentum toward the coach’s eight‑win goal. With the first game on the horizon, the Blazers are focused on translating practice gains into on‑field success. The blend of seasoned returnees and promising newcomers positions the team to challenge the expectations set by their recent record and to chase a playoff berth that has eluded them in recent years.