Written by: Will Hoenike
Most often, when talking to 8-man football coaches around Idaho, the conversation inevitably drifts to one word.
Depth.
In the case of 1A (formerly 1A Division 2) Salmon River, it’s been especially important. With a population of fewer than 400 people and relative geographic isolation of Riggins (McCall to the south and Grangeville to the north are both approximately 45 miles away), the schools’ classes are well known. There aren’t many sudden transfers or additions to bolster the athletic programs. So the coaches generally know what they do – or don’t – have.
In the case of the Salmon River’s football program, a program that earned seven state championships between 1999 and 2016, what it has seldom had is depth.
Sixth-year head coach Ty Medley says that has changed a little bit this fall.
“It plays such a huge part not only on game night, but all fall when trying to get a look in practice of an upcoming opponent,” Medley explained. “The last few years we have settled at around ten or eleven kids. This year we are starting the season with 18.”
That’s enough to line up and practice eight-on-eight. And that should benefit Salmon River, who is looking to climb back up the Long Pin Conference standings in 2024. The team must replace two important players, two-way standout Cordell Bovey and starting quarterback Gabe Zavala. And thanks to larger-than-usual incoming classes, there are potential replacements in the freshman class. Hayes Pratt could be a future standout at receiver and linebacker, while Gage Crump joins the program as a future quarterback.
But, another benefit of the additional numbers on the roster, Medley won’t need those two to step right in. They’ll have an opportunity to earn roles but Salmon River has key returners that will allow the younger players to groom and develop for sustained success.
“This year we have added a bit of size and athleticism, with a stable of senior running backs and increased ability to make defenses defend the whole field,” Medley said. “Looking at last year we need to improve on the fundamentals of the game. We had some missed opportunities last year, so we are trying to make those work to our advantage this season.”
Leading the way in the backfield is Devon Herzig and Zyler Thomezcek. The seniors will be counted on to help the offense finish drives after averaging just 18 points per game last fall. Sophomore Blake Shepherd – Long Pin fans certainly recognize the long line of Shepherds who have been tremendous athletes at Salmon River – is expected to step in for Zavala at quarterback with junior Riley Davis splitting out at wide receiver.
Defensive end Aaron Merkley returns for his junior season after earning second team All-Conference accolades last season. Herzig and Thomezcek will slot in behind him at the linebacker position along with Davis while Shepherd will see time in the defensive backfield.
“Tackling will be a big focus for us this coming year,” Medley said. “We had a lot of missed opportunities last season when it came to getting guys on the ground.”
Salmon River opens up with three non-conference games against Genesee, Timberline of Weippe, and Lewis County before opening up Long Pin play on September 27 at Garden Valley. The Wolverines are a returning playoff team and should provide a valuable measuring stick for Medley and assistant coach Derek Wilson as they continue to reassemble their program.
“Our ‘X-factor’ will be our ability to bring our young group along quickly. Get them involved early
in the game plan and experience on the front end of the season,” Medley said. “Creating reliable depth is a huge part of a successful season.”