A fall to remember
Lummi's state-qualifying football and volleyball teams honored at annual banquet.

Devon Roberts, center, listens while coach Jim Sandusky recounts how he had to pay Devon $10 for correctly naming a song playing on the car radio. It was "Hotel California" by The Eagles. Flanking Devon are Ray Jefferson, left, and Joe Phair.

Shortly before Lummi's annual fall sports banquet Wednesday night, athletic director and football coach Jim Sandusky received an e-mail with results of the balloting for the 1B all-state team. Good timing. Sandusky announced the Blackhawk honorees to the 300 or so people filling a ballroom at Silver Reef Casino. Junior David James was named second-team defensive back, as was senior Gale Jefferson; senior Tony Washington joined them on the second-team defense at end. Senior center Nelson Montenegro made the second-team offense, as did senior wide receiver Ray Jefferson. Gale Jefferson was chosen to the first-team offense at wide receiver, and senior quarterback Dustin Tom was named the state's offensive player of the year. The state's 1B coaches chose the all stars.

Kelsey Jefferson is overcome with emotion as she and seniors Sarah Brady, left, and Tiffany Taubenheim present volleyball coach Dan Williams with a gift.

The Blackhawk football team finished its season with a 10-2 record and played in the state playoffs for the fourth straight year, losing to Lake Quinault in the quarterfinals. The volleyball team finished the season with an 11-9 record after going 1-2 at the state tournament in Yakima.

This post will be the final one on "Pride of a Nation" for this season. The blog will remain up and will have periodic updates, as news arises.

A heartfelt thanks goes to the Blackhawks and to their families and fans. It has been a privilege and a joy to follow the boys throughout the season and to spend time with Jim Sandusky and his coaches, the players and members of the Lummi Nation community. Go Blackhawks!