Pirate Athletics
Pagosa Springs High School
Featured Athletes
Name: Dylan Dempster
High School Sports:
Cross Country, Baseball
Favorite Subject:
Math
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mrs. Miller (Math) because she makes things challenging, allows us to explore ways to solve a math problem, and helps the class understand the mistakes we make
Favorite Athlete:
Curtis Pride
Favorite Team:
Boston Red Sox
What I Listen To:
Country/Rock
Planned Career:
Forestry or History professor, or Wilderness EMT
My Family;
Parents: Sharon Holtz and Dan Dempster
Brother: Miles
I Would Love To Visit:
I would love to backpack through the Alps in Europe. Navigating and camping through Austria, the Bavarian Alps, and the Swiss-Italian Alps. Afterward, I would like to visit France again, Munch, and Argentina.
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes, high school sports are necessary because they teach us to work collaboratively towards a common goal, utilize communication skills, learn to take charge when necessary, independence, grit, sportsmanship, and tolerance. Also, high school sports have given me the opportunity to make friends and gain respect that I otherwise wouldn’t have during my high school career.
Comments from the Coach:
Dylan is the definition of coachable. He is always looking to improve himself in the sport and works hard for his team as well. He is respectful, kind, and considerate. This year has been a huge year of growth for Dylan in all aspects of the sport. He has earned himself a new PR, placed 2nd on the team (highest finish yet), and has been present at just about every practice. When he is not putting in the work himself, he is cheering on his team and encouraging them to do their best. Dylan is a standout athlete on and off the course and we are so grateful to have him be a part of our team.
~Coach Rachael Christiansen
Name: Chris Young
High School Sports:
Soccer, Baseball
Favorite Subject:
Math
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mr. Pond, because he is not only a great teacher but also a good person outside of school.
Favorite Athlete:
Mike Trout
Favorite Team:
Los Angelos Dodgers
What I Listen To:
Anything
Planned Career:
Attend Virginia Tech and become and architect.
My Family;
Mom - Amy
Dad - Ronnie
Siblings - Carson, Ella, Tinsley, Kobe
I Would Love To Visit:
I would love to visit Greece and discover more things about it and see different cultures.
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
High school sports are necessary because they keep you active, and most athletes maintain their grades while playing sports.
Comments from the Coach:
Chris Young is an amazing young man. As an athlete, he has made a tremendous impact on our soccer team through his leadership and effort. Voted a team captain by his teammates, absolutely incredible as a goalkeeper and increasingly impactful as a field player, Chris continues to show that he is pivotal to our team's success. He is a great teammate and leader on our team. Off the field, Chris is a terrific young person in our community, and we couldn’t be more proud of who he is. ~ Trevor Gian
Name: Kaiya Lyons
High School Sports:
X Country
Favorite Subject:
English and Welding
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mrs. DeGuise and Mr. Pond are my favorite teachers because they make learning fun and engaging. I love their personalities and dedication.
Favorite Athlete:
I don’t have a favorite.
Favorite Team:
I don’t really watch sports, so my favorite team is probably my dojo, Forge Martial Arts.
What I Listen To:
Punk Rock
Planned Career:
I plan to be an EMT or in emergency medicine in some other way.
My Family;
Mom - Samantha Lyons
Dad - Charley Lyons
Sisters - Lucy and Mabel
I Would Love To Visit:
I would love to travel and experience cultures around the world, possibly as a traveling nurse.
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
While sports may not be necessary for success, I feel participating in a physically challenging team building activity like a sport gives you skills to handle diverse situations. I believe sports are helpful to development in high school.
Comments from the Coach:
As a sophomore, Kaiya Lyons is taking huge steps toward reaching her running potential! So far this season, she has 3 top-ten finishes and ran an impressive personal best of 22:39! Kaiya is contagiously positive even during the hardest workouts. She leads the team by example as she gives 100% effort at practice and on the race course. She is closing the gap on our top runner and dragging the rest of the team with her! We are excited to see just how fast Kaiya can run!
~Coach Josh Kurz
Name: Aspen Pitcher
High School Sports:
Volleyball
Favorite Subject:
Math
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mrs. Sabra Miller. She helped me find success and love in math.
Favorite Athlete:
Madison Skinner
Favorite Team:
Texas Volleyball
What I Listen To:
Zach Bryan
Planned Career:
Pediatric Nurse
My Family;
Mom - Jen
Dad - Chris
Sisters - River, Miah, Aurelia
I Would Love To Visit:
Paris
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes, because is gives students a chance to do something they love and find new friendships.
Comments from the Coach:
Aspen is a talented athlete who consistently works hard to improve her skills in the off season. Whether in a game or at practice, she always gives her all and elevates the level of play of everyone around her. She has truly stepped up as a leader this year and communicates well with both her peers and her younger teammates, all of whom look up to her not only due to her skills but also because she is always encouraging everyone. Aspen is an exceptional asset to the Pirate Volleyball program and is always a crucial part of every victory. ~ Coach Katie Lorenzen
Name: Alex Pham
High School Sports:
Soccer
Favorite Subject:
Math
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mrs. O’Donnell because she is nice and always makes class fun.
Favorite Athlete:
Christiano Ronaldo
Favorite Team:
Real Madrid
What I Listen To:
Pop Music
Planned Career:
Mechanical Engineering
My Family;
Mom - Stephanie
Dad - Binh
Brother - Jordan
I Would Love To Visit:
Japan
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
High School sports are necessary because they teach people how to work with a team and be a leader.
Comments from the Coach:
Who other than Alex Pham can handle a senior year with Calculus, AP Stats, and varsity soccer?! Not only does he excel in the classroom, but Alex is a smart and composed player who can dutifully defend and spectacularly score. Alex makes and creates dynamic plays from the midfield, getting multiple players involved, often leading to scoring opportunities. As one of the team captains, Alex shows up early, leads the team on and off the field, and guides how the team is shaped. Alex is an unequivocal asset to this team and any future team he is on, making him an easy nomination for Triple Impact Athlete. ~Coach Dyan Rice
Name: Rylie Carr
High School Sports:
Track, Dust2
Favorite Subject:
Math
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mr. Forster, always seems to care
Favorite Athlete:
IDK
Favorite Team:
Charlotte Hornets
What I Listen To:
Pretty much anything
Planned Career:
undetermined
My Family;
Mom - Jessica
Dad - Myron
Brother - Wyatt
I Would Love To Visit:
New Zealand
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes, they create strong bonds, give you something to do, and help you push your limits.
Comments from the Coach:
Rylie Carr is the cornerstone of our girls' track team, leading our sprint program with remarkable speed. Rylie demonstrated that speed by winning the 100 Meter dash in our league meet on Saturday, which gives her the title of the fastest girl in the IML. She is currently ranked 5th in class 3A for the 100 Meter. When Rylie wins a race, it's often by a significant margin. She holds both the school records for the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes. Her contribution to our girls' 4x100 and 4x200 teams, both ranked in the state's top ten, is invaluable.
This year, Rylie broke the stadium record in Bayfield for the 100 Meter dash. We consider ourselves fortunate to have Rylie as a member of our team. Beyond her exceptional athletic abilities, she exemplifies sportsmanship by cheering on her teammates from the sidelines. Rylie's dedication to her teammates is evident in her constant encouragement and support. She has put in extra time preparing for this season by participating in several indoor meets during the winter months.
With her outstanding performances and support for her team, Rylie Carr is on track to have a great junior season. ~Coach O’Donnell
Name: Riley Laugel
High School Sports:
Baseball
Favorite Subject:
Metal Fabrication
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mrs. O’Donnell - She’s funny, nice and makes learning easy.
Favorite Athlete:
Trea Turner
Favorite Team:
Rockies
What I Listen To:
Country and Rap
Planned Career:
Agricultur
My Family;
Mom - Jeny
Dad - Mike
Brother - Weston
I Would Love To Visit:
Texas
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes, they teach you discipline, respect, responsibility and create families.
Comments from the Coach:
Riley is a standout senior baseball player and a consummate perfectionist at his trade. His value to our team is immeasurable. He plays multiple positions, from pitcher, first base, centerfield to shortstop at times. Riley never asks why but asks how he can help the team. His work effort is second to none. He is the first to show up to practice and the last to leave. Riley leads or is near the top in every major category of our offense from stolen bases, on base percentage, batting average, and runs scored. Defensively, he is our number one pitcher, leading the team in strikeouts and Earned Run Average. Riley supports his teammates working with underclass players to improve their skills and understanding of the game. Riley is a team captain and his coachability is off the charts. Off the field you can find Riley working out in the weight room to help strengthen his game. He helps work with our youth baseball teams so that someday they can follow in his footsteps. Riley also gets it done in the classroom, maintaining above a 3.0 average. He continually emphasizes the importance of academics to his teammates. ~Coach Ben Garcia
Name: Jeidy Moreno
High School Sports:
Soccer
Favorite Subject:
Science
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mrs. O is my favorite teacher because she has a different style of teaching. She also makes connections with her students. She is more than a teacher when you need her.
Favorite Athlete:
Guillermo “Memo” Ochoa
Favorite Team:
What I Listen To:
Medical Field: Nursing
Planned Career:
Spanish music, pop, rap, country
My Family;
I am the oldest in the family, so I am setting the path for my younger brother and sister. My parents have always pushed me to be better, whether in academics or sports. I will miss them dearly when I leave for college, but I know they will always when I leave for college, but I know they will always support me.
I Would Love To Visit:
Mexico and Spain
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
They are necessary because they build character. You learn to work together and communicate with teammates and coaches. They teach you many life skills that you can use. Along with skills, they keep you fit and you make like long friendships. Bonding after sports creates friendships. Without sports, many of of lives would be different.
Comments from the Coach:
Jeidy is a standout senior player who brings incredible value to the Pagosa Spring HS soccer program. As a skilled defender and midfielder, she has a natural ability to read the game and distribute the ball effectively, elevating her teammates' performance on the field. Her defense is an impenetrable wall, and nothing gets past her. Jeidy's discipline extends beyond the soccer field; she maintains straight As in her academics and exemplifies a strong work ethic. Her commitment to excellence not only improves her own game but also helps push her teammates to strive for greatness. On and off the field, Jeidy is supportive and lighthearted fostering a positive and fun team culture. ~Coaches Trevor Gian and Dyan Rice
Name: Creede Dozier
High School Sports:
Football, Basketball, Track
Favorite Subject:
English
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mr. Pond because he coached football and we get along well.
Favorite Athlete:
Jordan Poole
Favorite Team:
Denver Nuggets
What I Listen To:
Country Music
Planned Career:
Own a business
My Family:
Parents - Ben and Cristi
Siblings - Adelyn, Gunner, South
I Would Love To Visit:
South Africa
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes, high school sports teach athletes good work ethic and how to push yourself to get better.
Comments from the Coach:
Creede dominated in track and field during the recent week. Securing personal bests, he won the long jump, triple jump, and high jump at the Bayfield invitational. Those performances now position him within the top 10 in 3A across all three jumping events. His effort during practice shows his commitment to improvement, strengthened by his coachability.Not only is Creede a standout performer, but he also is great at encouraging his teammates. His leg in the 4 x 1 relay helped his team to a top-ten finish at the state level. He continues to have a positive attitude and is willing to contribute to his team in any way that is asked of him.Despite being a sophomore, Creede exhibits exceptional leadership. As a three-sport athlete for the Pirates, he continues to make significant contributions to his team's success.
~Coach O’Donnell
Name: Trey Garcia
High School Sports:
Golf, Soccer, Basketball
Favorite Subject:
English
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mrs. DeGuise because she is relatable and chill.
Favorite Athlete:
Messi
Favorite Team:
Denver Nuggets
What I Listen To:
Everything
Planned Career:
Own a business
My Family:
Mom- Jean
Dad - Mark
Brother - Kyle
Sister - Jacqueline
I Would Love To Visit:
Japan
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes, because it creates a brotherhood with friends that you couldn’t build anywhere else. Plus it is a great way to spend your free time.
Comments from the Coach:
Trey is an outstanding young man with great character and understands the definition of team. Trey had a very limited role as far as playing time this year, but you will never find a better teammate than Trey Garcia. He understood his role and actually became the leader of the scout team. Trey did a phenomenal job of helping our varsity prepare for our state run. Although his minutes were limited, he had a fantastic attitude and was a tremendous teammate all year long, doing anything anyone ever asked of him. He is such an outstanding young man and will be greatly missed next year. ~Coach Wes Lewis
Name: Annie O’Donnell
High School Sports:
Volleyball, Basketball, Track & Field
Favorite Subject:
Math
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Ms. DeGuise because she cars about all her students and she makes sure her classes are fun.
Favorite Athlete:
Jokic
Favorite Team:
Denver Nuggets
What I Listen To:
The Backstreet Lovers
Planned Career:
Sports Journalism
My Family:
Dad - Sean
Mom - Connie
Brother - Aidan
Doggy - Nugget
I Would Love To Visit:
Greece
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes. They build character and teach you that failure is ok.
Comments from the Coach:
Comments from the Coach:
Annie O’Donnell has been a vital part of the girls varsity basketball team for all four years of her high school career. Our team would not be where it is today without her leadership, endurance, and work ethic both on and off the court. On the court she leads us in rebounding averaging 6.6 rebounds a game, and having the only double double for us this season so far. She is our go to “big” even though she is only 5’7”, she plays so much bigger than she actually is. This speaks to Annie’s character and personality as well both on and off the court. She is up for any challenge and she conquers them with her positive attitude, energy, and can-do spirit. She leads her younger teammates by showing up everyday and giving her best. Her teammates said they admire her for her strong post moves and her ability to teach them from on the court or the sideline.
Not only is Annie an outstanding basketball athlete, she has been a four year varsity track and field athlete, along with a two year varsity volleyball athlete. Annie’s accomplishments don’t stop there. She is the Student body president, a part of student council, she is also a member of four other clubs which include FBLA, HOSA, SALT, and NHS. Annie makes top marks in all her classes and still finds time to support her other classmates by showing up to any and all pirate sporting events she can. It has been a blessing for me these last four years getting to coach such an incredible person and athlete.
~ Coach Osborn
Name: Marie Smith
High School Sports:
Cross country, Swim, Track
Favorite Subject:
Art
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Ms. Kelly because she is super supportive of my trying new things.
Favorite Athlete:
Serena Williams
Favorite Team:
Colorado Avalanche
What I Listen To:
Folk & Pop
Planned Career:
Architecture
My Family:
Mom & Dad, sister and dog
I Would Love To Visit:
The Netherlands
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes! They teach the importance of discipline and teamwork. I definitely wouldn’t be the same person I am today without them.
Name: Freddy Barnas
High School Sports:
Football
Favorite Subject:
Math
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mr. Downing because he is very laid back.
Favorite Athlete:
Zion Williamson
Favorite Team:
Chicago Bears
What I Listen To:
Rap
Planned Career:
Architect
My Family:
Mom - Kasia
Dad - Jerzy
Sister - Marcy
I Would Love To Visit:
Prague - Czech Republic
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes. They help build relationships and help to represent the school in an exciting way.
Comments from the Coach:
Freddy Barnas stands out as a triple impact athlete, exceeding expectations in his first year back after a knee injury and some time off from football. He plays dual roles as a defensive and offensive tackle, in which Freddy’s dependability and unwavering work ethic make him invaluable to our team. Freddy’s commitment to learning our program and improvement to his own skill set motivates and uplifts the entire team. He truly embodies what a triple impact athlete should be. ~Coach Morales
Name: Keaton Robel
High School Sports:
Golf
Favorite Subject:
Calculus
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mrs. Shehata because she’s super chill and sweet.
Favorite Athlete:
Jack Walker
Favorite Team:
Denver Broncos
What I Listen To:
All music. Favorite: I Will Survive
Planned Career:
Computer Programmer
My Family:
Mom: Dawn
Dad: Jeff
Brothers: Jonathon and Ethan
I Would Love To Visit:
Spain
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
No, they are just a great accomplishment. You don’t have to play sports, but they only serve to help you.
Comments from the Coach:
Keaton has played golf for all four years of high school and has been a big part of our program. Keaton has always made it a priority to be on time and not only to work on his game but also to be willing to help others and always to have a positive attitude. As an excellent student with a real desire to learn and better himself, he embodies the essence of the triple impact athlete. ~Coach Faber
High School Sports:
Wrestling
Favorite Subject:
Classics
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mrs. DeGuise because she makes school fun.
Favorite Athlete:
Spencer Lee
Favorite Team:
Denver Broncos
What I Listen To:
Country and Rap
Planned Career:
Undecided
My Family:
Brothers - Clayton and Dylan
Mom - Tamara
Dad - Chris
I Would Love To Visit:
The Bahamas
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes. High School sports teach you how to work hard and have fun within a team environment.
Name: Alex Pham
High School Sports:
Soccer
Favorite Subject:
Math
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mr. Forster because he always makes class fun and enjoyable.
Favorite Athlete:
Cristiano Ronaldo
Favorite Team:
Real Madrid
What I Listen To:
Pop Music
Planned Career:
Mechanical Engineering
My Family:
Mom - Stephanie
Dad - Binh
Brother - Jordan
Sister - Shea
Dog - Luna
I Would Love To Visit:
Japan
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
High School sports are necessary because they teach you how to work as a team and be a leader.
Comments from the Coach:
Alex Pham demonstrated what a player does to elevate his teammates and raise the level of play for the game. He scored his first HS hattrick. He was a key player in both our offensive moments and defensive situations to help us do our best.
Coach Kurt-Mason
Name: Davian Coss
High School Sports:
Football, Wrestling
Favorite Subject:
Science
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Ms. Rice because she’s always nice and respectful
Favorite Athlete:
Nikola Jokic
Favorite Team:
Denver Nuggets
What I Listen To:
Reggae
Planned Career:
Attend college and obtain a veterinary degree
My Family:
Mom - Eliza
Dad - Jaime
Sisters - Kyleah and Harmoney
I Would Love To Visit:
Puerto Rico and St Croix
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes, because they keep you out of trouble and teach you to stay disciplined, respectful, and to go one hundred percent at everything you do.
Comments from the Coach:
Davian Coss is nominated as our Triple Impact Athlete of the Week, and it is well-deserved. On and off the field, Davian consistently goes above and beyond, ensuring that all equipment is picked up and he remains the last to leave practice. Davian’s dedication is not only evident in his work ethic but in the positive impact he has on his teammates. Davian leads by example, inspiring those around him to give their best. He shows the same level of care and commitment to his teammates daily. Davian’s selflessness and genuine concern make him a great teammate, and he embodies the essence of what it means to be a Triple Impact Athlete. ~ Coach Morales
High School Sports:
Volleyball, Track
Favorite Subject:
Math
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Mrs. Miller because I feel like I learn best from her.
Favorite Athlete:
Madison Skinner
Favorite Team:
Pagosa Pirates
What I Listen To:
Zack Bryan
Planned Career:
Occupational Therapist
My Family:
Mom - Jen Pitcher
Dad - Chris Pitcher
Sisters - Miah, River, and Aurelia
I Would Love To Visit:
Greece
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes, because they help people with being social and give people a reason to do well in school. They also give students something else to think about and focus on.
Comments from the Coach:
Aspen Pitcher has been a steady force in the Pirate Volleyball program her entire career. Not only is she an all-around player, but she is an incredible teammate, always speaking positively and encouragingly to her teammates as well as the rest of the Lady Pirate volleyball players. She leads by example and is always excited for others' successes! On the court, Aspen leads the team in kills, kills/set, hitting %, digs, and digs/set. She is relied upon heavily each game, which can be a lot to shoulder, but she carries the responsibility graciously at all times. Aspen is always working to make herself better, her team better, and her sport better! ~Coach Lorenzen
High School Sports:
Football, Basketball, Wrestling, Baseball
Favorite Subject:
English
Favorite Teacher and Why:
Pond, because he always engages his students and makes the class as comfortable as possible.
Favorite Athlete:
Libby Dunne
Favorite Team:
LSU
What I Listen To:
Hip Hop, Country, R&B, Pop.
Planned Career:
Cyber Security at Northumbria University
My Family:
Parents: Yody & Rebecca Aucoin
Brothers: Clay, Grant, Wil & Aaron
I Would Love To Visit:
New Zealand
Are High School Sports Necessary? Why?
Yes, because they build character and form leadership skills. Sports create skills that you carry on for the rest of your life. You learn to work with a wide variety of people who are different from you, but you have sports as common ground.
Comments from the Coach:
Seth Aucoin has proven himself to be an exemplary leader on the football team through his unwavering commitment to hard work and accountability. His dedication to the sport is evident in the countless hours he devotes to practice, honing his skills, and pushing himself to excel. Seth's relentless work ethic motivates his teammates and sets a high standard for everyone on the team. Moreover, his commitment to accountability means he takes responsibility for his actions both on and off the field, leading by example and fostering a culture of integrity within the team. Seth Aucoin's leadership is a driving force behind the team's success, and his teammates are fortunate to have such a dedicated and accountable leader by their side.
~Coach Morales