The Tumwater T‑Birds have etched their names into the state’s Class 2A lore over the past three seasons, reaching the championship game each year and falling just short of the title. Their most recent showdown ended with a narrow loss to Archbishop Murphy, a rivalry that has defined the team’s recent narrative.
Head coach William Garrow, now in his fourth year at the helm, brings continuity and a clear vision. He returns four starters on the offensive line — Nate Lowery, Konrad Blake and Landon Anchors — giving the offense a solid foundation as it moves into the new campaign.
Key players to watch
Senior all‑purpose standout Grady Wall headlines the roster. A first‑team offense selection by The News Tribune, Wall rushed for six touchdowns last season while also contributing 94 tackles on defense. His brothers Beckett and Cooper earned All‑State honors as defensive players, adding depth to a family legacy that fuels the team’s ambition.
The T‑Birds’ offensive scheme relies on the classic Wing‑T formation, a strategy that maximizes Wall’s explosiveness as a rusher and leverages Tyler Briscoe’s skill set as a complementary back. The duo will look to control the tempo early in the season.
The schedule opens on September 4 at Liberty (Issaquah), a test that will set the tone for league play beginning October 16 in the 2A Evergreen Conference. With a blend of returning stars, a stable coaching staff and enthusiastic community support, the T‑Birds aim to translate their recent near‑misses into a championship‑winning season.