Steve Yeiter's return to being defensive coordinator was just one of two additions to the Panthers' coaching staff this fall, and the other also has played a key role in Gold Beach's trek to the Class 3A semifinals.

Jim Hulslander, who coached at Marshfield the past few years, arrived at Gold Beach as girls basketball coach last winter. This fall, he joined the Panthers as receivers coach.

“We're lucky we have him,” said Yeiter. “Our passing game is 110 percent better than it's ever been. They run better routes. They block better.”

Hulslander's involvement in the program led Swift to incorporate the passing game into the offense more this year.

“This is without a doubt the best group of receivers I've had,” Swift said. “And that's a large part what Jimmy's done, bringing the fundamentals.

“Hulslander's been a huge addition (when) you take his knowledge and his desire and intensity and you match it to a pretty good group of kids.”

The passing game was an important element of Gold Beach's strategy against Dayton in the quarterfinals last weekend, as it has been throughout the season.

“The wrinkles he's brought to the passing game have added to the offense as a whole - to have that potency to the aerial attack,” Swift said.

Swift passes credit for the Panthers' success to his entire staff.

“I get a lot of accolades because we're good, but I'll be the first to tell you it's because I've got good men to do it with me and share my vision,” he said.

- John Gunther