The Undefeated Junior Varsity Season

By UriYah Grantham

The Sutherlin Bulldogs Junior Varsity football team accomplished something remarkable this year: they finished the season undefeated. For any team, that’s a rare achievement. For a group of young athletes still learning the game, it’s a testament to their hard work, discipline, and growing talent.

At the heart of this success was Freshman Quinn Gaylor, a player who proved himself in multiple roles. Officially listed as the team’s number two wide receiver and number one cornerback, Quinn’s contributions went far beyond those titles. On defense, he shut down opposing receivers and came up with key interceptions. On offense, he scored touchdowns and made big plays when the Bulldogs needed them most.

When Braxton Gary had to move up to the new role of varsity’s new quarterback Quinn’s had to fill in. When the team needed a leader under center, he stepped up as quarterback in several crucial matchups, including games against Klamath Union, Douglas, Brookings-Harbor, Siuslaw, Coquille, and South Umpqua. His versatility and confidence gave the Bulldogs an edge that few opponents could match. His confidence was clear from the start. After breaking free for a long run early in the season, he grinned and said, “Ain’t no one can catch me.” That wasn’t just talk, it was backed up by performance.

One of the season’s highlights came against Hidden Valley, a game that tested the Bulldogs’ resilience. Quinn showed poise beyond his years, keeping his eyes downfield while scrambling and making smart decisions under pressure. Reflecting on that game, Quinn explained, “Keeping my eyes downfield while running,” a simple but powerful insight that showed his growth as a quarterback. It wasn’t just about athletic ability, it was about learning to think like a leader, balancing instinct with strategy.

Every undefeated season has defining moments, and for the Bulldogs, the showdown with South Umpqua was one of them. The energy was high, the competition fierce, and the stakes clear. When asked about the toughest matchup of the year, Quinn didn’t hesitate: “Definitely South Umpqua.” He added, “The whole South Umpqua game… I feel like they hyped me up.” That adrenaline fueled the Bulldogs, pushing them to another hard-earned victory. It was a game that demanded grit, focus, and teamwork. For Quinn, it was also a reminder that football isn’t just about skill, it's about rising to the moment when the pressure is highest.

While the wins and highlights defined the season, Quinn also cherished the smaller moments that came with being part of a team. Asked about his favorite memories, he laughed and said, “Probably the bus rides.” Those rides, filled with jokes, music, and other things. Game-day rituals added their own flavor. Quinn admitted, “Them smelling salts helped a lot,” a quirky detail that shows the mix of seriousness and fun that comes with being 14 and competing at a higher level.

Learning quickly was another theme of his season. “I would say learning all the plays at QB fast,” Quinn said proudly. His ability to adapt and absorb the playbook showed not only his athletic ability but also his determination to grow as a leader.

Quinn understands that this undefeated run is part of a bigger story. He’s already thinking about the future and how younger players can contribute. When asked what advice he would give to incoming teammates, he said, “They better be a good scout for us next year.” It was half-joking, half-serious, a reminder that every role matters, whether you’re starting under the lights or helping prepare the team in practice.

And when asked how it felt to go undefeated again, Quinn’s answer was simple but powerful: “I feel great that's the 3rd year in a row.” For him, success isn’t new, but it’s still meaningful.

The Bulldogs’ undefeated season wasn’t just about football. It was about growth, teamwork, and the joy of competing together. For Quinn, it was about proving himself in new roles, building confidence, and creating memories that will last long, like the Smelling salts he talks about. After the season was over Quinn quoted: “I had a lot of fun.”