By Zach Thummel
Columbia Gorge News
HOOD RIVER — Hood River Valley High School’s Jack Miller competed in the 2026 Les Schwab Bowl on June 27 at Lewis and Clark College in Portland.
The Les Schwab Bowl featured top high school football players in the state of Oregon and Southwest Washington, splitting them into two teams (Team Columbia and Team Willamette) in an all-star style game. The Bowl moved from a North vs. South geographical match-up in 2022 to a two-team live draft process where teams are now a mix of players from all over the state and region.
Miller, a 2026 graduate of HRVHS and a standout offensive and defensive lineman for the Eagles during the 2022-25 seasons, suited up for Team Columbia. Miller helped the Eagles to an 8-2 overall record in 2025, reaching the state playoffs for a school record fourth consecutive year.
During his time with the Eagles, Miller played three varsity seasons in blue and gold, capping his prep career with an OSAA 5A second team all-state selection on the defensive line, as well as earning OSAA 5A Northwest Oregon Conference co-defensive lineman of the year honors.
“It means a lot,” Miller said about his participation in the game. “I didn’t really know that this was a thing until I got the email for it, but then after looking into it and seeing all the guys that are here, it’s a huge honor, and I feel like it’s a perfect way to cap off my career.”
On Saturday, Miller earned a substantial chunk of time on the field, playing as a defensive end in a 21-13 win for Team Columbia. He finished the game with a pair of quarterback pressures and two tackles.
“It was an incredible way to end my football career,” said Miller. “Winning the Les Schwab Bowl with a group of guys that I’d never met before made the experience even more special. Getting the opportunity to represent my school, compete alongside the best players in Oregon, and walking away from it with a win is something I’ll always remember. Being able to play a lot and just enjoy every snap with everyone out there made it even better.”
Miller added that the game of football was foundational to his development as he looks to his next step in life.
“Football meant everything to me growing up. It’s taught me discipline, accountability, and how to overcome adversity. More than anything, it’s given me lifelong friendships and amazing memories. I’m grateful for my coaches, teammates, and experiences the game has given me, and ending it with a Les Schwab Bowl win was the perfect way to finish.”
Miller, who is also a track and field standout, will continue his education in La Grande this fall and will compete for Eastern Oregon University’s men’s track team.
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