Keith Korpela

The mid-1950’s saw a surge in Astoria High School football. Keith Korpela, class of 1957, was a major reason for this success.

On the gridiron, as a three year letterman, Korpela really left his mark. As a starter on both sides of the ball, Korpela helped the football team to a combined 14 wins and 4 losses record his junior and senior seasons.

His junior year, Korpela and the rest of his class let Oregon football know that they would be a group to be reckoned with. Starting mostly juniors, the 1955 season ended with a six wins and three losses record.

Against Parkrose in that impressive 1955 season, Korpela made one of the finest defensive plays of the year. As instructed before the game, Keith was told to hold the line instead of rushing the passer and to watch for delays up the middle. As the Parkrose quarterback set up a screen pass, Keith was holding his ground, waiting and ready. He was able to intercept the pass and return it for a touchdown.

The 1956 season was full of anticipation for the Fishermen. Keith was a co-captain and ready to lead a great season. Starting at guard on offense, Keith’s ominous presence and key blocks led the Astoria ground game. Behind the solid line play, the Fishermen were often over 200 yards rushing as a team. Anchoring the defense from his middle guard position Korpela led a tough group that shut down opposing offenses all season.. Dominating the line of scrimmage, the Fisherman defense allowed less than six points per game. The team ended the year with a 8-1 season.

As the season ended the awards came Korpela’s way. He was unanimously named First Team All Metro League and selected to participate in the 1957 Shrine All-Star Game. He was presented the Zell Brothers Trophy as Oregon’s outstanding lineman. Korpela also earned one more football award when the University of Washington, impressed with his grit and hard nosed play, offered him a four year football scholarship.

In the spring, Korpela was a two-year letterman on the track team. As a senior a second place finish at districts allowed him to move on and represent Astoria High at the State Track Meet.

Keith was very involved while at Astoria High. He was the junior class vice-president and as a senior he was student body vice-president. He was a member of the National Honor Society as a junior and senior. He was presented the 1957 AHS “A” Blanket for scholastic and athletic achievement.