The Mighty Oregon Podcast

Aaliyah McCormick’s rise from a lightning‑fast kid in San Diego to an NCAA champion hurdler at Oregon is a story of raw talent sharpened by relentless work. Growing up, her speed was impossible to ignore, and by high school she was breaking records at Scripps Ranch and establishing herself as one of the nation’s premier young hurdlers. At Oregon, she’s become a force, cementing her place among the fastest collegiate hurdlers ever. Her journey includes a comeback from injury that showcased her resilience and competitive fire that fuels a mindset resulting in her dominance on the track. This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Ducks track and field star Aaliyah McCormick…Hurdling the Field.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Oregon infielder Ryan Cooney has become one of the Ducks’ most reliable and impactful players, but his rise is anything but typical for an in‑state kid who once flew under the recruiting radar. In this conversation, he opens up about growing up in a Duck household, falling in love with baseball later than most, and grinding his way from an overlooked local prospect to a cornerstone of Oregon’s lineup. He also reflects on the unique pride of helping elevate Oregon baseball’s reputation — proving that elite players can come from right here in the Northwest. This episode dives into the mindset, maturity, and work ethic behind one of the Ducks’ breakout juniors. This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Ducks infielder Ryan Cooney...Embracing the Grind.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Oregon pitcher Lyndsey Grein brings one of the most fascinating dualities in college softball — a soft‑spoken, bubbly, faith‑driven personality off the field and a fiery, unapologetically intense competitor the moment she steps into the circle. In this conversation, Grein opens up about growing up in a military family, the values that shaped her, and the relentless work ethic forged alongside her sister in basement pitching tunnels and late‑night training sessions. Lyndsey also shares how her faith helps her balance compassion with the fierce “33” persona that emerges on game day. And with stories of chirping hitters, calling her own pitches, and flipping the competitive switch the moment the jersey goes on, she reveals how that on‑field fire has become both her edge and her expression of love for her teammates. This episode dives into the heart, grit, and spiritual foundation behind one of the Ducks’ most animated and beloved leaders.This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Oregon softball’s Lyndsey Grein - A Different Duck on the DiamondSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sofia Bell’s story blends hometown roots, academic drive, and on‑court grit into one of the most compelling journeys in Oregon women’s basketball. Growing up in a Ducks household, she fell in love with the game early and eventually emerged as a McDonald’s All‑American before stepping onto campus and earning a starting role from day one. Her evolution into a three‑and‑D cornerstone, a lockdown defender with a clutch shooting touch, is matched only by her growth as a vocal leader, helping a young roster as the savvy veteran presence. This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Ducks guard Sofia Bell...Leader of the PackSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Former Oregon softball standout Darya Kaboli‑Nejad brings one of the most compelling journeys you’ll hear in college athletics—a walk‑on from Omaha who talked her way onto a top‑ranked Ducks roster and earned a scholarship through sheer grit and belief in herself. At Oregon, she became known for her relentless work ethic, infectious energy, and the underdog mentality that shaped both her playing career and her life after softball. Darya is now a successful lawyer with a heart for helping others — proving that her tenacity extends far beyond the softball field.This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is former Ducks softball player Darya Kaboli-Nejad - Talking the TalkSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Malik Benson’s path to Eugene has been unique to say the least. Benson was an explosive athlete in high school that excelled on the football field as well as track and field but his grades kept him from attending a major university. Two years at Hutchinson Community College earned Benson a call from Nick Saban, fulfilling a childhood dream. A year with the Tide followed by a year at Florida State then led Benson to the Ducks, where he’s found his stride at just the right moment…hoping his play will help propel Oregon on a deep run in the College Football Playoff. This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Oregon wide receiver Malik Benson - Finding a WaySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From the hardwood of Seattle to the bright lights of Eugene, Katie Fiso has been rewriting the script of what it means to be a point guard at Oregon. The Gatorade Player of the Year in Washington, she arrived with a pedigree that instantly turned heads. But Katie’s story is more than just stats and accolades. After the heartbreaking loss of her father, she’s shown resilience, strength, and a fire that fuels her game. Now, Fiso is carving her own path, one dazzling assist, one clutch bucket, and one inspiring moment at a time.This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Ducks point guard Katie Fiso…Carving Her Own Path.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The big lights shine the brightest on the biggest payers at the biggest schools. Oregon very much fits into that category as some of the biggest names in college football history have made their way through Eugene. When the lights shine the brightest, it all comes down to making plays…simple as that. Teitum Tuioti now has the bright lights shining directly on him as he and line mate Matayo Uiagalelei have formed one of, if not the best, defensive end duos in the nation. Tuioti, a coach's son from Hawaii, has had to earn his spot every step of the way. No free handouts. Nothing given to him. And with the lights shining directly on him, he wouldn’t have it any other way.This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Oregon outside linebacker Teitum Tuioti…Not Just a Coaches KidSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the age of the transfer portal, if a player isn’t getting playing time, they’re likely to ship out before the season even ends. From the time Kenyon Sadiq arrived in Eugene, his maturity has stood out. So when Sadiq was behind two future NFL tight ends in Terrance Ferguson and Patrick Herbert last season, he took it as an opportunity to learn and get better at his craft. Now a starter and budding NFL prospect, Sadiq is looking to follow in Ferguson and Herbert’s footsteps as a professional, but not before helping the Ducks reach their full potential, just like himself. This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Ducks tight end Kenyon Sadiq: Taking FlightSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two of the newest members of the Ducks coaching family join the show as Rob sits down with women's soccer coach Tracy Joyner to discuss getting to Oregon, her playing and coaching career and her "winning style" of play she brings to the Ducks. Then volleyball coach Trent Kersten talks about how he, eventually, fell in love with volleyball and the road he's taken to get to Eugene. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Tracy Joyner & Trent Kersten - New Ducks on the Block.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There are a million different ways to swing a golf club. Picturesque like Rory McIlroy. Abstract like Scottie Scheffler. For most of us, there are a million and one ways to hit it terribly. Oregon’s Kiara Romero’s game is closer to Rory and Scottie, which has her thinking long term and where golf might take her. Coming off a historical year where she earned national freshman of the year, Romero followed it up with a stellar sophomore season, helping the Ducks to a conference title and earning Big Ten golfer of the year. The sky is the limit for Romero as one of the top amateurs in the world prepares to try to bring home a national title for the Ducks.This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Oregon Golf’s Kiara Romero - Process Over PerfectionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hanna Delgado's collegiate career was going along just like anyone else's. A senior worried about finals, the next stage in her life and stepping out into the real world. That all changed one year ago when Delgado made a diving attempt at a fly ball, jammed her head into the bottom of the centerfield wall and broke her neck.In a moment, her life was changed. Centimeters further and she would have been paralyzed. But never the one to stay down in the dirt, Delgado has worked hard to get back to living her normal life with the help of family, teammates and her faith.This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Ducks former softball centerfielder Hanna Delgado - HaloSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nate Bittle is the big man on campus who comes from a small town. The Central Point native was the highest rated player to put on a Ducks jersey coming out of the state of Oregon. Bittle has experienced the highs and lows of a student athlete, battling an injury during his junior year while the Ducks made a magical postseason run. Now a starter, Bittle has his eyes set on a pro career in the NBA, but not before one last BIG run with the Ducks.This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Oregon basketball big man Nate Bittle - Big Man on CampusSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jabbar Muhammad has always had a blueprint to follow when it comes to his path on the football field. The son of a college athlete with siblings and cousins spread out through the pros and collegiate game, not to mention growing up in Texas, where football is religion, it was almost as if Muhammad was predestined to play high level football. That path led him to Stllwater, Oklahoma to play three years for the Cowboys before the wild world of the transfer portal brought him Northwest to Seattle and the Huskies (boooooooo) before joining the good guys in Eugene for his senior year. A standout year on the field and a viral celebration has Muhammad making plans for the NFL…but not before he wraps his career up in the green and yellow. This is the Mighty Oregon Podcast and this is Ducks cornerback Jabbar Muhammad - Box the BlueprintSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Oregon's all-time sacks leader Nick Reed joins Rob to discuss how he got to Eugene, his time as a Duck during a pivotal period for the program, playing in the NFL and joining the Air Force after his playing days were over.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Elisa Mevius is no stranger to the international stage.  Born in Rendsburg, Germany, Mevius has starred in her fair share of worldwide tourneys. Her talents on the basketball court have taken her to the U17 Euro Cup, the U18 World Cup and the 2023 FIBA 3 on 3 U21 Nationals in Europe. The latter of which helped her earned a spot on Germany’s 3 on 3 basketball team for the Summer Olympic Games in Paris. After spending her first two years in college at Seina, where she earned MAAC defensive player of the year honors last year, Mevius brings that intensity to Eugene, looking to help the Ducks bring home their own gold in the form of a national title. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Ducks guard and Olympic gold medalist Elisa Mevius…From Paris with GoldSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dante Moore has always been the star when it comes to his ability on the football field. Moore was a highly touted, highly recruited five star recruit coming out of Michigan in the 2023 recruiting class who initially committed to being a Duck before old pal Chip Kelly pried Moore away to the UCLA Bruins. As if college isn’t hard enough as a freshman and quarterback of the football team, Moore received news that his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, something that rocked him to his core. Looking for a fresh start, Moore transferred to Eugene this past Spring and has gravitated towards something else new for him this year…being a backup. Ready and waiting, Moore has embraced the role and knows his time will come, whenever that may be.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is the Oregon QB Dante Moore...Better Late Than NeverSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Senior year is typically the time when a college student officially enters the adult world. So long classes, parties and meet ups at the quad…hello career, bills and understanding what PMI is. But for Deja Kelly, the allure of one more college season has her putting down the Carolina blue for the Duck green and yellow.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is the newest member of Oregon’s women’s basketball team Deja Kelly...New Duck on Campus.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When I grow up, I wanna be a professional baseball player. That statement has been uttered by countless little leaguers hoping to one day make it to the show. For Jacob Walsh, that dream was just a phone call away. A top five first baseman coming out of high school, Walsh decided to bet on himself, turning down the big time lights of the Majors for the pop of PK Park. Now a junior and the Ducks all-time home run king, Walsh is looking to help Oregon make another deep post season run.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Oregon baseball’s Jacob Walsh...Ducks Dig the Long Ball.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ariel Carlson is a Duck through and through. Raised in Eugene, the choice was never in question where she wanted to play softball, even as an 8th grader. The ups and downs of her college career on the diamond have led her to become a leader for the Ducks, whether that be with her bat...in the locker room…or even when adversity strikes.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is the Oregon softball’s Ariel Carlson…Follow the Mess.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Colleen Uzoekwe has always been ahead of the pace when it comes to her life. In middle school, she started attending community college classes where she was enrolled at the same time as her sister and mother. By the time she was in high school, she had already completed her junior college degree. Uzoekwe not only excelled in the classroom, but on the track as well. She was the Gatorade State girl’s track and field player of the year in 2020 before making her way to Eugene. Continuing to push herself, Uzoekwe was a finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship, the worlds preeminent and oldest graduate fellowship, based at the University of Oxford. Never the one to limit herself, Uzoekwe is awaiting her next adventure while waiting to get in to med school. A balancing act she sure is accustomed to.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is the Ducks track and field star Colleen Uzoekwe…Time Managed.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

LeGarrette Blount always had dreams of playing on the big stage. Scoring TDs. Championships. Parades. Repeat. Taking the junior college route, Blount transferred to Oregon out of East Mississippi Community College and immediately made an impact on the program, setting the school’s single season rushing TD record in his first year at Eugene. Blount’s senior season was tumultuous to say the least, but that didn’t stop the big man from making it to the NFL and embarking on a nine-year career as a pro, where he would hoist the Lombardi Trophy three times before retiring in 2020. Now a businessman and entrepreneur, Blount is taking those hard lessons learned on the field and applying them to his next phase of life off the gridiron.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is the former Oregon running back LeGarrette Blount…Champion Duck.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Farm land and the basketball court aren’t two things that commonly go together. Unless maybe you’re Ricky Roe from the 90's classic Blue Chips. Didn’t think you’d hear an obscure basketball movie references today did you? But for Maarty Leunen, the draw of small town living and farm land wasn’t enough to keep him off the court. His talents on the hardwood took him to Eugene, where he helped lead a plucky group of Ducks to the Elite Eight. Leunen spent over a decade as a professional basketball player overseas, experiencing everything the world had to offer. But now back home in Redmond, Oregon, Leunen is coaching high school basketball for the first time and passing along lessons he learned in his small farm town.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is the former Ducks power forward Maarty Leunen…Comfort Outside the Zone.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Scott McGough has always had plenty of people in his corner. His father, a former professional baseball player, helped guide him during his high school career. After getting drafted at 18-years-old, he decided to take his talents on the diamond to Eugene, where he formed a special bond with assistant Coach Andrew Checketts. He was urged to enter the MLB draft rather than come back to Oregon for his senior year by the coaching staff, knowing what was best for him. And after years of trades, an injury and battling in the minor leagues, McGough has earned his place on the Diamondbacks roster…a place he can finally call home. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast, and this is former Oregon pitcher & current big leaguer Scott McGough…Safe at Home.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Just a small town girl, livin’ in a…well, you know the rest. Jessica Moore comes from a town of less than 3,000 people where everybody knew each other and you could leave your doors unlocked at night. Excelling on the diamond in high school, Moore made her way to Eugene where she would again, excel on the diamond. Moore now enters Oregon’s Hall of Fame in her first year on the ballot. A testament to her skill as well as her impact on the softball program. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Oregon softball Hall of Famer Jessica Moore – Just a Small Town Girl.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jessica Drummond has always felt drawn to the game of lacrosse. She picked it up with her twin sister Jana on the East Coast, in New Hampshire, before eventually making her way West to Oregon. Once in Eugene, Drummond helped usher in a successful era for the young Ducks program. Drummond knew coaching was in her future, with a return to Eugene set as the dream job. That opportunity has presented itself this year and Drummond knew, just like when she picked up the game, it was the perfect fit. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is the Ducks new women’s lacrosse head coach Jess Drummond...It Just Feels Right.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When you’re weathering the storm, it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. For Tez Johnson, growing up in a rough part of Birmingham, Alabama was his storm. And the light at the end of that tunnel ended up being a family with roots in Auburn but ended up in Eugene. Johnson was taken in by Bo Nix’s family in high school, where the two became brothers. Nix went to Auburn before transferring to Oregon while Johnson headed to Troy before making his way West this past season. After a record setting season in the yellow and green, Johnson has found firm footing with the storm now behind him. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Ducks receiver Tez Johnson…Walk by Faith.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s been said that in the middle of difficulty lies opportunity. For proof of this statement, look no further than JJ Birden. A speedster out of Lake Oswego, Oregon, Birden ran track and field for the Ducks but wanted an opportunity to get on the football field. So he walked on…literally. How does someone with a single touchdown in his college career get drafted into the NFL? An opportunity. Birden would make that opportunity last eight years in the league, playing with some of the all-time greats. And it all comes back to seizing the moment…whether presented to you or not.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is former Ducks wide receiver and hurdler, JJ Birden – Looking for a Chance.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You’ve heard the saying, the early bird gets the worm right? Well even as adults, that’s easier said than done. How about for an 8-year-old? You’re more likely to catch them playing a video game than hitting the court at 6 in the morning. Jackson Shelstad fell in love with the game as a young kid. Coming from West Linn, he’s been around high level basketball throughout his life…and that led him to Eugene. The freshman has already made his mark on the Ducks program, something that goes back to those early morning gym sessions.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Oregon basketball guard Jackson Shelstad...Rise and GrindSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jeffrey Bassa has been a man on a mission since he arrived in Eugene. After making a name for himself in high school as the number one safety coming out of Utah in the 2020 recruiting class, Bassa enrolled at Oregon during the COVID year in college football, making the transition to the next level that much harder. Never one to make excuses and always putting the team first, Bassa made the switch from safety to linebacker in 2021, helping the Ducks to a bowl game in back-to-back seasons. Emerging as a team leader in 2023, Bassa has one focus, helping the Ducks at all costs, knowing the sky is the limit in the game that means so much to him.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Ducks linebacker Jeffrey Bassa - No One Cares, Work Harder See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Adversity comes in all shapes and sizes. It shows no prejudice. Hannah Pukis was shown this early, and often, in her volleyball career. Pukis has overcome multiple serious injuries during her high school and collegiate career while carving her place on the court. First at Washington State, then here at Oregon. As the Ducks are about to begin their latest playoff quest, there’s one last hurdle to clear and avenge their defeat from one year ago.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast...and this is volleyball’s Hannah Pukis – The Stage is Set.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When you’re a kid, you dream about what you want to be when you grow up. A football player. Work for a big company. A writer. Maybe start your own business. Well, what happens when you actually grow up…and do all those things. Garren Strong knows, thanks in part to his time in Eugene, that anything is possible as long as you can dream it. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is former Ducks wide receiver and entrepreneur Garren Strong…Just Dream It.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most college students want to travel the world once they wrap up their academic career. You know, the typical tropes when it comes to sightseeing. Backpacking through Europe. Train hopping from country to country. Finding a hostel in a quiet little mountain town. For Phillipina Kyei, she took the road less traveled to get to Eugene. Born in Ghana, Kyei moved to Canada with her mother as a teenager. There, she picked up the game that would ultimately bring her to the States and become a Duck.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is women's basketball’s Phillipina Kyei…Ducks All Over the World. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Geoff Schwartz’s tenure at Oregon came during one of the most memorable times on campus in Eugene. During Schwartz’s senior season, a talented offensive mind in Chip Kelly was hired as offensive coordinator and sprinkled the seeds of what the Ducks could do on the field. Schwartz enjoyed a successful career in the NFL before transitioning into the world of media, breaking down film as only he can, while trying to keep his Duck bias to himself.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is former Oregon offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz…Football, Family, Faith and the Ducks.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many children around the country vividly remember the first time they got to go to a sporting event. Walking into the stadium and seeing the field for the first time is etched in their minds forever. Bryce Boettcher can trace his first experience in Autzen Stadium to when he was 8 years old and when he first thought, “I want to do that.” A dream has turned into a reality for the three-sport star in high school, who came to Oregon to play baseball, but eventually found his way to the gridiron. From walk on to special teams to now starting for the Ducks on Saturdays, Boettcher continues to work hard and earn his keep, all while helping the Ducks football team try to achieve wild dreams of their own.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Ducks football…and baseball’s Bryce Boettcher …Dream(s) Come True.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mimi Colyer has made her mark in more ways than one on the Ducks volleyball team. On the court as a freshman, Colyer led the entire NCAA in points and kills en route to helping Oregon reach the NCAA regional finals. Off the court, Mimi now looks to step into a leadership role for the Ducks, filling the shoes of the departed Brooke Nuneviller. It’s a role Colyer has embraced, and she can’t wait to prove it with the team's play.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Oregon volleyball’s Mimi Colyer…Bumped into the Spotlight.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New York City has some of the most recognizable fixtures of any city in the world. The Statue of Liberty. Central Park. The Empire State Building. Dive even further and you’ll find some of the most famous basketball courts in the world as well. Madison Square Garen and Rucker Park. So it’s tough when you’re trying to make your mark on the football field in the basketball capital of the world. Ajani Cornelius took his talents from the Concrete Jungle to Rhode Island University, where in 2022, he would become a standout for the Rams and one of the best offensive linemen in the FCS. The transfer portal awaited, and Cornelius found himself surrounded by the sounds of silence.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is the Ducks new offensive lineman Ajani Cornelius…Now You’re in Eugene.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Will Stein can trace his football journey back to grade school, where he can still recite the name of the play his dad, who coached him as a youth, would relay in. That drive as a youngster led Stein to become the quarterback at Trinity High School, one of the most established and prominent football programs in Kentucky. Undersized for a QB, Stein wasn’t highly recruited going into college. Just looking for a shot, Stein walked on at Louisville and made the most of the opportunity…a theme that would follow during every step of his coaching path.  This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Oregon’s offensive coordinator Will Stein - Bitten by the Football Bug.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bo Nix has been in the spotlight since he first stepped onto a college football field. As a true freshman starting for Auburn in 2019, Nix would lead the Tigers on a game-winning drive on a national stage to open the season against the…Oregon Ducks. Circumstances would lead Nix to leave Auburn in 2022 and bring him West, to Eugene for a fresh start to his football career. Helping Oregon to a 10-win season and bowl victory last year, Nix returns as the Ducks have their sights set on a run through the College Football Playoff. I recently had the chance to sit down with Bo and his wife Izzy during Ducks Give 2023 for a conversation ranging from how he got to Oregon to how he and Izzy met. It was a great talk that peels back the curtain on one player under the spotlight in Eugene.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Bo and Izzy Nix…A Couple Ducks from the SouthSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most of the students walking around campus at the University of Oregon have long known the football program as winners. A national powerhouse. Conference championships. Rose Bowls. It’s all become the norm in Eugene. But that success didn’t happen overnight. It was a long and winding road to become a destination spot in college football. A road that points back to one man. Before Lanning and Helfrich…before Kelly and Bellotti…there was Rich Brooks. Brooks would bring success to the Ducks the team hadn’t seen in over a century of playing football. After taking Oregon to their first bowl game in over 25 years, Brooks had his sights set on more. Not only for the Ducks, but for himself as well.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is part two of our interview with Ducks legend Rich Brooks…Pasadena and Beyond.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most of the students walking around campus at the University of Oregon have long known the football program as winners. A national powerhouse. Conference championships. Rose Bowls. It’s all become the norm in Eugene. But that success didn’t happen overnight. It was a long and winding road to becoming a college football destination spot. A road that points back to one man. Before Lanning and Helfrich…before Kelly and Bellotti…there was Rich Brooks. Brooks would bring success to the Ducks the team hadn’t seen in over a century of playing football. It all culminated in a trip to Pasadena for the granddaddy of them all, which is where we begin our discussion with Coach Brooks.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is part one of our interview with Ducks legend Rich Brooks…The Ducks Taking Flight.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dreams usually take a lifetime to achieve. It’s something we use to continue to push ourselves to constantly keep moving forward to reach our goals. But what happens when you reach that goal at 18? That’s where Tanner Smith found himself when he first dawned the green and yellow. Smith has not only continued to keep pushing for the betterment of himself, but also, for the betterment of the team. That drive has helped push Smith up the Duck baseball record books, something he’s dreamed about since he was a boy. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Oregon baseball’s Tanner Smith…A Duck Born and Raised in SC See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do it nice or do it twice. The mindset of a perfectionist can be a tortuously rewarding experience. Always giving it your best effort is something every athlete, whether amateur or professional, has been taught since they were in grade school. Having that mindset is tough in softball, when getting a hit less than half the time puts you in the record books. Allee Bunker has re-written the records during her time at Oregon, whether it be on the diamond or off. In the field of play, Bunker will finish off her Ducks career in the top 5 in hits, runs and RBIs. Those mind-blowing stats aren’t lost on Bunker, something she says she’ll cherish with her forever.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Ducks softball infielder Allee Bunker…Perfect Game.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Adam Snyder is the definition of a grinder. Head down. Do your job. The rest will fall into place. Snyder wasn’t highly recruited out of high school. He wasn’t a top draft pick in the NFL. Even after being selected in the 3rd round of the NFL draft, he wasn’t sure if he belonged. But all that added fuel to the fire and drove Snyder to be the hardest worker in the room. After a stellar career as a Duck and a decade in the NFL, Snyder still has that edge to be the very best that he can be.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is former offensive lineman Adam Snyder: Rising from the Trenches   See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The sentiment when it comes to kickers in football is they have the easiest job in the world. Run on the field. Kick the ball. Run back to the sidelines. Mission accomplished. Rinse. Repeat. Camden Lewis wants you to know that’s there a tad more that goes into it. A soccer goalie in high school with the nickname “Cannon” because of his leg strength, Lewis tried out for the football team and fell in love with the game. But he also knew he’d have to work his tail off to get where he wanted to be. The effort would pay off as Lewis was offered a scholarship at Oregon. It hasn’t always been easy, but the kicker originally from Carolina has carved out a place in the history books for the Ducks. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is Oregon football’s kicker, Camden Lewis: Just for Kicks  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Professional athletes are creatures of habit. The same routine day in and day out helps them block out all the noise and focus on the job at hand…winning. Tyler Anderson is a self-described tinkerer, making change in his life a part of his routine. The 20th overall pick in the 2011 MLB draft, Anderson has continued to hone his craft and makes changes all for the better. Injuries would force Anderson to have to wait five years before making his big-league debut, but getting to the show hasn’t stopped him from tinkering. Coming off the best season of his career for the Dodgers, Anderson is ready to get back to work for the L.A. Angels this year. But not before stopping by to chat about his time as a DuckThis is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is former Ducks pitcher Tyler Anderson: Everything is Earned  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trust the process. That phrase has become a part of pop culture verbiage in the last decade, thanks in large part to the Philadelphia 76ers. At the core of the phrase is to not worry about the dark times and difficult situations because brighter days are ahead. And what better way to describe Terra McGowan’s collegiate softball career. A star high schooler on the diamond and in the classroom, McGowan went to Arizona State to play ball for the Sun Devils. Culturally, ASU wasn’t the right fit for McGowan. Her mental health was too important. Eugene provided the perfect fit culturally. But the tough times continued as she had to sit out her freshman year after transferring…and then COVID…followed by an injury that cut short her junior year. But, after trusting the process, McGowan is flourishing as a senior for the Ducks…and enjoying every moment of it.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast. And this is Oregon softball’s Terra McGowan: All Part of the Plan.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ernie Kent made a name for himself as a player who left everything he had on the court in the late 70s with the Kamikaze Kids. Sacrificing his body for his teammates would take a toll, as injuries would cut short any pro aspirations. That wasn’t the end of Kent’s basketball journey though. Not by a long shot. In part two of my chat with Ernie, we dive into his resume as a coach, which started with a trip across the globe and culminated with the realization of a dream job. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is part two of our conversation with Ernie Kent: Forging His Own PathSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ernie Kent had never been west of the Mississippi River before heading to Eugene. An All-American in high school, Kent would arrive on campus not knowing much about the Ducks but could feel just how one-of-a-kind Eugene really was. Kent wanted to be apart of something special and he would find that in coach Dick Harter’s Ducks, or as their most commonly referred to, the Kamikaze Kids. In part one of my chat with Kent, we look back at his childhood growing up, getting to Eugene and what it was like playing for those special teams in the 1970s. This is the Mighty Oregon podcast and this is part one of our conversation with Ernie Kent: Becoming a Kamikaze Kid.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Chance Gray and Grace VanSlooten of the Ducks women’s basketball team have been on each others radar since a very young age. Gray is a product Cincinnati, Ohio and VanSlotten is from 200 miles north, in Toldeo, Ohio. That relatively close proximity lead both young ladies to playing for the same AAU team in the Buckeye state. A friendship developed that impacted each on and off the court, and ultimately led them both to the 541.This is the Mighty Oregon podcast…and this is Chance Gray and Grace VanSlooten: A Package Deal.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.