In the realm of high school football, where the scoreboard often becomes the defining measure of success, Wilsonville’s football program offers a profound additional narrative. While their hard-fought 2023 state championship victory was the culmination of nearly two decades of striving, the true essence of the Wildcats’ success lies far beyond the final whistle. 

For them, football is not merely about wins and losses, but about the shaping of young men into individuals who will go on to make a lasting impact, both on the field and in life.

Head coach Adam Guenther, a man who has spent 15 years in the program, encapsulates the ethos of Wilsonville football: “You can’t judge our program by what we did this season or last year. You judge our program in 20 years when these guys are husbands, fathers, and employers. Then you can judge what we’ve done, but don’t judge by wins and losses.”

Before every break, the team calls out “family” in unison, but Guenther underlines an important part in saying, “We need to understand what that means. It means sacrifice.”

Reframing Success: A Program Beyond the Scoreboard

In an era where championships often define the legacy of a team, the Wilsonville Wildcats are redefining what it means to be successful. “At what cost is a team winning?” Guenther reflects. Guenther’s vision, rooted in long-term character development, underscores that football’s true value lies in its ability to shape young men’s lives.

Is it through a ratio of wins and losses, or in the reflection of men who are developed through a season? This philosophy is deeply embedded in the team’s culture and is reflected in every practice, every game, and every interaction within the program.

“Football is about character, it’s about discipline, it’s about becoming better as men, not just as athletes,” says Blake Dougherty, a senior running back for the Wildcats. “Our program is unique because we focus so much on building us up as people, not just players.”

This emphasis on character and community begins at a young age. 

“We start with our youth camps, where our players—our varsity guys—are teaching the next generation of Wildcats,” explains Guenther. “Our young guys learn the game, but more importantly, they learn what it means to be a part of something bigger than themselves.”

The integration of leadership and mentorship is a cornerstone of the program. Younger players, many of whom are mentored by their older counterparts, quickly learn that their role extends far beyond their individual athleticism. 

“It’s about passing the torch. We instill values of responsibility, accountability, and teamwork from the very beginning,” says Guenther. “When you’re playing here, you’re not just playing for yourself. You’re playing for your brothers and for the whole community.”

There’s a call to reality made by Guenther to the players, which he takes responsibility for as a teacher of Wilsonville, and the football coach. He puts it as “Everyone’s excited to get to the next level and play football, but I’m like, ‘y’all better wake up a little bit because, in about 9 months, it’s a different world out there.’”

A Culture of Accountability and Respect

“Do you know how many kids are late for my practice? Zero.” 

One of the standout elements of Wilsonville’s football program is its unwavering commitment to a culture of respect—both on and off the field. “We hold each other accountable,” says Kehau, a team manager. “It’s not just about the players. Everyone, from the coaches to the managers, is expected to uphold the same standards. That includes respect for the game, respect for each other, and respect for the coaches and officials.”

Wilsonville questions themself in reflection: Is it really that important that my toe is one inch behind the line? Is it really that important that our knee pads are down our knees? Is it really that important that I have my jersey tucked up underneath? 

Both players and coaches demand a lot from each other. Everyone expects excellence, and the Cats are taught by a philosophy that accounts for “the little things.” It’s well known that players are expected “not to cut corners,” knowing that success takes time and dedication. 

It’s trusted that each coach works well together and plans practices to benefit/organize the team.

Another major aspect of Wilsonville’s football identity is the sideline atmosphere. Many can attest to the encouragement from trainers, coaches, and other players, which greatly impacts the game. 

Guenther sums it up by saying, “Culture on the sideline is a result of the culture of the program. I sit down with them each day and talk about our philosophy. What does it mean to be a Wildcat? They’re going to respond, ‘First class and do your job.’ That’s the core. I’m not naive,” Guenther begins pointing out the facts, 

“There are swear words said, but they’re not coming from us. First class means a lot. It means being to class on time, and respecting teachers and officials.” 

This approach is rooted in the belief that football, as a team sport, is an ideal medium for teaching young men how to work together, hold each other accountable, and grow as individuals.

“The only thing that you can control on that field is your effort and your attitude,” Guenther reminds his players. “Effort and attitude are what make the difference between good and great, between the average player and the exceptional player. And they’re something that every single one of you can control.”

Leadership by Example: Coaches as Role Models

At Wilsonville, the coaching staff is more than just a group of tacticians and strategists. They are role models who lead by example and instill in their players the core values that define the program. Coach Guenther is a testament to the power of servant leadership. 

This leadership style extends beyond football fundamentals. It is a philosophy of mentorship, where coaches are deeply invested in the personal growth of each player. 

“I’m the most competitive person you’ll ever meet in your life,” Guenther shares comedically, “but we do things the right way.”

The communication between coaches and players is rooted in honesty and transparency, ensuring that players understand the expectations placed upon them. Guenther thoroughly explains his position on this by saying, 

“I won’t win every game, but that’s why you keep a score. That’s the world. Sometimes, you gotta learn how to set goals, work really hard, and not get what you want. On the other hand, sometimes you’ll work really hard, reach that goal, and get the fruits of your labor; that starting position. But then in that, learn to be humble because someone else is sitting on the bench for you who may have worked just as hard.”

As coaches, it’s their job to push each player to the line; beyond their mental limits. In a sense, although the team aspect is renowned with Wilsonville’s football program, the specification that individuals are recognized and known personally is equally reputable. 

Guenther highly prioritizes playing guys who have grown up in the system of Wilsonville’s youth programs, fairly highlighting each individual’s talents. 

“There are programs in this state that have an influx of talent from around the METRO area that didn’t play at those schools last year. They’re willing to sell the kids who’ve been in the program from third grade on up and bring in somebody new. I’ll never do that,” Coach exclaims. He continues by comparing big-named schools in relation to team size and competitive status by saying,

“Every team gets their transfers. We got a couple this year. We got a kid from the Dalles, one from Hawaii, Hermistan, and West Linn. Did we go to their 7 on 7 games and recruit them? Did we go over to Hawaii to meet them? No! Every team will get their 2 or 3, but it’s when you’re pulling in 10 or 15 starters from other programs that I start to question things. I’m not doing that to my guys.” 

There isn’t much more the young men of Wilsonville can do to make their coach proud. Without conditions, Guenther loves the players of the program as his own, allowing them to a positive role models and mentor figures both on and off the field.

“It makes me proud watching our guys take the lead; watching Mark (Wiepert) take the lead. To run to the middle of the field and to see the entire team take a knee– it’s inspiring. Mark then goes to the other team and invites them to join no matter the score at the end.” 

Leaders such as Mark Wiepert and many of his teammates resemble traits of humanity that often fade when sports like football reach for aggression and power from young men. The greatest observation of these players though, is how they mimic these attributes from their leading coaches, managers, trainers, peers, and parents. 

Legacy Beyond Football: The True Measure of Success

For Guenther, the real measure of success is not found in championship titles or accolades, but in the character of the young men who pass through the program. “Judge us by our men, not by our wins,” he states with conviction. 

“When these guys are 35, 40 years old, and they’re taking care of their families and their communities, that’s when you’ll know if we’ve done our job right.” This long-term vision is embedded in every facet of the program, and it resonates deeply with the players. 

A Program Built to Endure

As Dougherty puts it, “We are more of a family than other teams.” As Wilsonville heads into the end of its 2024 season, the foundation laid by Coach Guenther and his staff is stronger than ever. 

While the players are undoubtedly focused on the competitive challenges that lie ahead, their ultimate goal remains unchanged: to grow as individuals, to support one another, and to continue fostering a culture of respect, accountability, and integrity.

“Be the best person you can both on and off the field, and show the other team that you’re gonna pick them up after the tackle. Show them you’re better by acting like a man,” Guenther emphasizes. 

Whether or not they claim another state title this year, one thing is certain: the true victory for the Wilsonville Wildcats lies in the young men they continue to shape, year after year. And that, as Coach Guenther would say, is where the real triumph resides.

“Today, people are losing sight of what high school athletics are really about. Football doesn’t have to be played with bad language, ill feelings, disrespect, and violence. It’s a violent game naturally, but you can play the game with class. There are teams out there who make it all about winning the championship, and yet, the reality is that most teams haven’t won. If that’s all you’re worth, then of course there’s disappointment.” 

In the end, Wilsonville football is not just about playing the game. It’s about learning the game of life, one play, one lesson, one brotherhood at a time.

“Wins and losses are secondary, and if we get enough in high school, they’re secondary. If we think about it as ‘secondary,’ everything else will work itself out.” ~Coach Guenther