High school football: ‘Big Red’ Isaiah Mattison is ‘that guy’ in Woodland

Isaiah Mattison, in the middle of it all, displays his emotions after Woodland defeated Columbia River last week. Photo by Paul Valencia

Isaiah Mattison appreciates everything associated with Woodland, and as a senior, he has accepted his role as a leader, not just for the team, but for the whole school

Paul Valencia
Clark County Today

The man in the middle of it all.

The center of attention on offense.

The obstacle on defense.

He is right there, always, for Woodland football. Actually, for all of Woodland.

Because he is also in the middle of the student section at other sporting events, supporting his classmates

Oh, and he is very easy to spot. Listed at 6-0, 290 pounds, he also stands out with that distinctive hair and beard.

Big Red is all about Woodland Green.

Isaiah Mattison might cover up his hair during football games, but that beard makes it quite clear why he is called Big Red at Woodland High School. Mattison is a team leader on the football team as well as a school leader, one who supports all things Woodland. Photo by Paul Valencia

Isaiah Mattison was one of the linemen who led the way for the Beavers last week, taking over the second half as Woodland got back to its winning ways over Columbia River.

The two-time defending Class 2A Greater St. Helens League champions started this season 1-2, including 0-1 in league play. Then the Beavers took on the 2-0 Rapids, a team that is on the rise.

This was quite a test for the young Woodland team. The Beavers needed their senior leaders to make it happen.

Such as Mattison.

“I really just try to bring out the best in our teammates,” Mattison said. “One person can’t do everything, especially as an offensive lineman. We work together so they can make the plays.”

Dayton Morris and Michael Belvin got the two second-half touchdown runs for the Beavers in what would be a 17-14 victory.

Woodland coach Glen Flanagan said he challenged his team at halftime, and the Beavers responded with a dominating, physical second half.

Yes, led by the linemen.

“I knew you guys had it in you. You’re good. You guys figured it out, you found a way, and you got things done,” Flanagan told the team in the post-game huddle.

Mattison said he appreciates that the coaches count on him to be a leader, but he also said every senior on the team has accepted that responsibility.

“I have a lot of weight on my shoulders, trying to build up the team. But we’ve said you don’t have to be a starter. You don’t have to be a moment-maker. Anybody can be a leader. That’s what we talked about this year. We need to lead our team. We’ve had that in the past. It’s our turn now,” Mattison said.

Two years ago, the Beavers won the 2A GSHL with one league loss. No guarantees this season, of course, but the defending champions made quite the statement last week. The 2A GSHL is quite competitive. Through two league games, Ridgefield and Washougal are at 2-0. Then there are four teams at 1-1. Woodland will host Hockinson on Friday, Oct. 3.

Anything can happen.

For Flanagan, he is thrilled to be going on this journey with Mattison, a perfect representative of the school and the city.

“The family is a longtime Woodland family. He’s grown up here. He’s just one of those kids, when push comes to shove, it means more,” Flanagan said. “He has the heart. He wants to get after it. He’s rallying the guys.”

And then he does the same for his classmates.

“At volleyball games, he’s leading the cheers. He’s just that guy,” Flanagan said.

For Mattison, all he is doing is showing support for all who have shown support for him and his team.

“They show up for us so we need to show up for them,” Mattison said. “We love their support, and we need it to win games. I’m just trying to be around the community that supports us.”

Big Red is everywhere in Woodland.