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 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.
Also read:
- The Study of Sports Podcast Jan. 31, 2026: We discuss how the 2A GSHL football is about to change in a major way, plus some Seahawks talk, too
The Jan. 31 episode of the Study of Sports Podcast covers major upcoming changes to 2A GSHL football, local high school sports updates, and discussion of the Seattle Seahawks. - Fort Vancouver athletics improving under partnership with Trico League
Fort Vancouver High School athletics are showing measurable gains in competition and participation during the second year of a partnership competing in the Class 1A Trico League. - The Study of Sports Podcast Jan. 15, 2026: We discuss some hot topics in high school sports across the state, plus we talk college and pro football
Reporter Paul Valencia is joined by Tony Liberatore and Cale Piland to discuss current issues in high school sports, along with college and professional football topics. - Opinion: Kindness is always welcome, even in places where one does not always find it
Paul Valencia reflects on how a brief moment of kindness between a journalist and a football coach underscores the importance of respect in journalism and public life. - The Study of Sports Podcast Dec. 30, 2025: A look ahead to 2026 with WIAA amendments, a year in review in high school sports, plus remembering the Mariners’ magical run
The latest Study of Sports Podcast looks ahead to proposed WIAA amendments, reviews high school sports in 2025, and reflects on the Seattle Mariners’ memorable run.
