PAPA JOE
by Jerry Mercado (Rivals.com Eastern WA Head Analyst)
I first noticed Joe Douglas after watching a ton of Hanford film. Hanford had a host of young runners (Jalen Devine/ Will Bishop/ Isacc Bernard) that were not only rushing over a 100 yards but breaking off huge runs.
I wanted to see what was different and immediately Douglas jumped off the screen at me. He’s a fairly big kid 6’4” 245 pounds now and he moved well. Being that size he looked athletic and it turns out that’s an understatement.
Joe was selected as a first team all conference player for the Columbia Basin Big 9 for basketball after dunking, defending and swatting opposing competition. I’d say he’s not only going to have his pick on where he wants to go but, maybe even have to choose what sport.
After Joe’s football season he was chosen unanimously amongst the Coaches as 1st team All-Conference for offensive linemen.
“I started to get attention after you wrote the article about me and started to notice my name in the paper and more people requesting my film,” said Douglas in an audio interview.
Joe has been getting all kinds of interest for football which includes Washington State, Oregon State, Eastern Washington, Wyoming and Pennsylvania University.
“Coach Oram has been talking to WSU,” Said Douglas when asked if he’s spoken to any schools.
Douglas will also take part in track and field.
“I feel like it will help me with my speed and conditioning,” says Douglas.
This is a sentiment I’ve tried to preach to kids for years. If you’re serious about football and getting better in terms of speed then track and field is the way to go.
Joe Douglas will be part of a talented Hanford Falcons squad that will contend for the 3A title in the new Columbia Basin Conference league.
“A lot of our guys are coming back this year and we are working hard right now,” Said Douglas when asked about the off season.
With Joe Douglas’s athleticism there’s no doubt he’d be a good pickup for any School. He’ll be entering his Senior year and will even start at defensive end for the Hanford Falcons but at the next level he would better serve as an offensive guard.
“Right now it’s all about working hard in the off season and I plan on going to a bunch of camps this summer. I’m getting ready to finish my film with Coach Oram and get it sent out.”
On the film which I have already seen you will notice a big, athletic presence with good feet and blocking technique.
Question is who will step up and grab Joe first?