THE DALLES — The Dalles High School football program is headed into the 2026-27 season with some new faces stepping into key roles.
The Riverhawks, led by third-year head Coach Nate Timmons, are headed into year No. 2 in the OSAA Class 4A Special District 5 (SD5). The Riverhawks lost 12 seniors from the 2025-26 squad, including two players headed to the college level: Reese Kenslow, who is playing football at Eastern Oregon University in La Grande this fall; and Hunter Bustos, who is playing for the College of the Redwoods in Eureka, CA.
“We had 12 seniors last year, so we had a couple kids move up, and our kids are stepping up this year,” said Timmons. “That’s how football goes. You graduate guys, and you develop new guys and plug them in. So, we’re excited to see where everyone fits in.”
Last year, The Dalles finished 3-6 overall and 1-3 in SD5 play with a fourth-place finish in the league, improving from a 1-7 finish the year prior. The Riverhawks won over Umatilla, Molalla and Ontario in 2025.
Despite losing the seniors, the Riverhawks return several key contributors from last season. Senior defensive back Creighton Clack is back on the defense, as well as junior defensive back and wide receiver Lucky Enesi.
On the offensive line, The Dalles returns senior William Quiles at right tackle, junior Adrian Miramontes at center and senior Conor Hajek at left tackle. At the quarterback spot, sophomore Ben Graham will take the keys to the offense.
“[Graham]can really sling the ball around, and he’s a smart kid. So, we’re excited. He did really well last year as a freshman on the JV squad and developed really well,” said Timmons.
The Riverhawks start the season with a road jamboree against Junction City and Molalla in Junction City, before their first game against Centennial High School at 7 p.m. on Sept. 4 at home.
The Riverhawks also hit the road for five straight games starting on Sept. 18, going to McLoughlin High School. Then they head to Gladstone/Riverdale, Baker, Umatilla and finish the road stint Oct. 16.
“We just have a really positive group this year, and I’m excited to see them grow and what they’re going to do,” said Timmons.
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