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2015 Prospects

Aloha High School Linemen Taylor Vaandering Epitomizes Brotherhood & The Game

We have watched Taylor Vaandering, now a Senior at Aloha High School, carry his brothers legacy and his talents forward and become a stalwart linemen for the Warriors. He has matured into one of the most technically sound linemen in the Region

Aloha High School Linemen Taylor Vaandering Epitomizes Brotherhood & The Game

It seems like just yesterday that we spent the better part of the season following the Aloha Warriors as they made their historic run to the State Championship in Oregon.  in 2010 they would win it all in improbable fashion  after 30 years as a more or less loosing program.  While Thomas Tyner rose and brought National attention to the team many other stories developed including the amazing turn around that Coach Chris Casey was able to manufacture in a short time before moving on to George Fox where he will lead the Bruins back into the collegiate football world this season.

Many of you that were there or who saw that historic run will will remember the story of Alex Vaandering; the young Aloha ball boy who lost his life at age 11.  His story and that of his Family, Parents Dan and Wendi and brother Taylor, and how they responded was a driving inspirational force in the Warriors season.  When the Championship trophy was handed over at Reser Stadium and the celebration began they were all there with tears in their eyes embracing everyone in their Aloha Community.  It was amazing to see and to be a part of for all of us.

The "AV" and the raide fingers honored young Alex Vaandering in 2010 who passed away as the Aloha High School season got rolling.

The “AV” and the raide fingers honored young Alex Vaandering in 2010 who passed away as the Aloha High School season got rolling.

 

Alex Vaandering 2

Alex was a special young guy who always gave his all to his school and his team mates.

 

During the game Tyner made an iconic touchdown and stopped to point to the sky; later telling the family that was for Alex.  The team had “AV” stickers on their helmets and paid tribute to the 11 year old by holding up two index fingers into the air signifying young Alex and what his passing meant to them all.

Then came the part where the family had to move on.  Tyner left a Legacy forever heading off.  So did Casey.  And so did the Warriors of that era.   One of the guys that has continued to carry that Legacy forward is Taylor Vaandering.

Taylor  is now a Senior at Aloha High School and he carries his brothers legacy and his talents forward.  He has become a stalwart linemen for the Warriors.  He has matured into one of the most technically sound linemen in the Region and is leader and mentor to many.  What he lacks in height he makes up for in technique and heart.  Taylor is a solid linemen and has plans to play in college with an eye towards possibly rejoining Casey at George Fox next year if things work out.

Aloha linemen Taylor Vaandering is a football player in every aspect of the term.

Aloha linemen Taylor Vaandering is a football player in every aspect of the term.

This kid has heart, is a team mate to all, plays because he loves the game, and is humble. He is all about brotherhood and family too.  These are the attributes most respected by any coach at any level.  Far from being a flashy top recruit Taylor is the epitome of what a football player and a brother should be.  Watching him grow and develop first hand we can vouch for this.  This guy is one of those special young men you want on your side.

We congratulate Taylor for all of his efforts on and off the field and wish he and the Warriors a successful and fun 2014 Campaign!  Here is Taylor’s film and a little more about him.

 

 

NAME:
Taylor Vaandering
School and Class:
Aloha High School, 2015
Phone and EMail
5033605630
wreckingball40@yahoo.com
Height – Weight- Speed – Strength
Height: 5’9″
Weight: 230
Bench:300
ON: Is there any recent news on the Collegiate front? Have you been contacted by any schools via phone, em,ail, mail, text, or Facebook etc?
George Fox University
ON: How is the Season Going so far for you and the Team?
We are learning a new offense and defense and adjusting well as a team, and I am taking extra steps to make myself adjust to the new techniques.
What Position(s) are you playing this season?
C, NT, DT/DE
ON: Are you happy with your progress?
My quickness and technique are my strengths as a lineman, along with my knowledge of the plays.
On: What is your favorite part of the Football season?
The Friday nights and the bus rides with my teammates
In a year from now what do you want to look back on and remember about this season that is just ahead?
The way I led my team and all of the progress we have made together.
Name some guys who you have been impressed with on your team? Any surprises or young guys standing out?
Parker Bull is a hard worker and a great running back.
Ryan Schwartz will be our #1 receiver because of his great route running and technique.
ON: Why should a college recruit you when there are so many kids out there? What sets you apart?
My work ethic and willingness to do whatever it takes to be the best I can be as a football player. I am coachable and I have a great passion for the game.
Offers of Visitations:
Visit Linfield, EOU, and PSU and go to games.

I am the Founder of the Northwest Prep Report. For 17 years I have led the way to the best of my ability to promote the best talent from the Pacific NW free of charge. It is my pleasure to continue to serve High School athletes from all over the Pacific NW and beyond. Formerly with Rivals.com my sites have now crossed over 8,000 stories, 7 MILLION Video Views, and 15,000 regular followers. Together with the best football people in the USA we pursue excellence for our NW athletes.

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