Emily Rains-Sullivan

Class of 1999

Emily Rains-Sullivan’s athletic career reflects a rare combination of versatility, leadership, and sustained commitment to excellence across multiple sports and levels of competition. From her high school years at Southridge to her collegiate success at Washington State University, she distinguished herself as both a dedicated athlete and an engaged leader within her school communities.

At Southridge High School in Kennewick, Washington, Emily was a multi-sport athlete whose primary impact came in volleyball and track and field. She competed on the volleyball team all four years, earning two varsity letters and emerging as a respected leader within the program. As a junior, she served as team captain, guiding the squad through a competitive season while setting the standard for effort and accountability. Her performance and leadership were recognized with Most Valuable Player honors and selection as First Team All-Area by the Tri-City Herald, affirming her standing as one of the area’s top volleyball athletes.

Emily also competed in track and field for three seasons, earning two varsity letters and contributing in multiple events. Her dedication and steady improvement culminated in her senior season, when she advanced to the regional level, further demonstrating her ability to compete successfully beyond the league level.

In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Emily was deeply involved in student leadership and service. She served as vice president of DECA and was an active member of Key Club, balancing academic, extracurricular, and athletic responsibilities while contributing positively to school culture.

Following graduation, Emily continued her academic and athletic pursuits at Washington State University, where she majored in Sport Management. She joined the WSU women’s rowing program, transitioning into a demanding Division I sport and quickly earning the respect of coaches and teammates through her work ethic and physical development.

As a freshman, Emily split time between the novice squad and the varsity four, an early indication of her adaptability and competitive drive. That season, she was recognized with the team’s Strength & Conditioning Award, honoring her commitment to preparation and performance. In her sophomore year, she rowed in the third seat of the second varsity eight and earned Honorable Mention Pac-10 All-Academic Team recognition, reflecting excellence both athletically and academically.

Her collegiate career reached another milestone as a junior, when she competed as part of the No. 10 ranked varsity eight. That crew placed third at the Pacific-10 Championships and finished 13th at the NCAA Championships, marking a high point in program success and solidifying her role at the national level of collegiate rowing.

From a multi-sport standout and team captain at Southridge High School to a Division I competitor at Washington State University, Emily Rains-Sullivan’s career exemplifies leadership, adaptability, and sustained excellence. Her contributions on the court, on the track, and on the water, along with her commitment to academics and service, make her a deserving and respected member of the Hall of Fame.

Cassie Hamilton

Class of 2006

Cassie Hamilton’s swimming career stands as one of the most accomplished in Southridge High School history. Defined by championship success, record-setting performances, and long-term excellence at both the high school and collegiate levels, Hamilton established a legacy of dominance that continues to represent the gold standard for the program.

At Southridge High School in Kennewick, Washington, Hamilton emerged as one of the premier swimmers in the state of Washington. Her high school career was highlighted by a WIAA 4A State Championship in the 200-yard Individual Medley in 2005, where she captured the state title with a winning time of 2:07.72. Competing against the strongest field in the state’s largest classification, her championship performance cemented her status as an elite-level swimmer.

Hamilton’s excellence extended far beyond a single event or season. She was named Big Nine Conference Swimmer of the Year twice, a reflection of her sustained dominance across multiple seasons and events. She also earned recognition as a three-time High School All-American, placing her among the top high school swimmers nationally during her career.

A consistent postseason performer, Hamilton was a district champion in all four years of high school competition and served as team captain her senior year, providing leadership both in and out of the pool. Her impact on the Southridge program was comprehensive and lasting. By 2016, it was reported that Hamilton held every individual school record, underscoring the breadth of her contributions and the standard she set across all swimming disciplines.

In addition to her high school success, Hamilton trained year-round as a long-time member of the Tri-City Channel Cats, competing in USA Swimming and refining the technical foundation that fueled her success at the state and national levels.

Hamilton continued her athletic career at Michigan State University, competing in NCAA Division I swimming within the highly competitive Big Ten Conference. Specializing in the backstroke and individual medley, she contributed consistently across championship meets and dual competitions.

At the Big Ten Championships, Hamilton competed in multiple events, including the 200 backstroke, where she posted a prelims time of 2:03.41, and the 200 individual medley, recording 2:05.66, the second-fastest time on the Michigan State team that season. Throughout her collegiate career, she was a regular contributor in conference-level competition, also swimming on medley and freestyle relays during key Big Ten meet weeks.

Her collegiate résumé includes multiple dual-meet podium finishes, highlighted by a first-place finish in the 200 backstroke against Ball State, as well as consistent top-four performances against conference opponents such as Minnesota. Her versatility across events and reliability in scoring roles made her a valuable and trusted competitor for the Spartans.

Following her athletic career, Hamilton transitioned into a professional career and currently works with Jacobs Rhoades HVAC, continuing to exemplify the discipline, commitment, and work ethic that defined her time in competitive athletics.

From a state champion and record-holder at Southridge High School to a Division I competitor in the Big Ten Conference, Cassie Hamilton’s career reflects sustained excellence, leadership, and impact. Her achievements and lasting influence on the Southridge swimming program make her a most deserving member of the Hall of Fame.

Heather Johnson-Soprano

Class of 2012

Heather Johnson-Soprano’s soccer career stands as one of the most accomplished and impactful in Southridge High School history. A prolific goal scorer, respected leader, and elite competitor, she set a standard of excellence that extended from the high school level to Division I collegiate soccer.

At Southridge High School in Kennewick, Washington, Johnson established herself as one of the most dangerous offensive players the Columbia Basin/Big Nine Conference has ever produced. Over her high school career, she scored 101 goals, joining an exclusive group of athletes to surpass the century mark and cementing her place among the program’s all-time greats. Her scoring ability, vision, and relentless work rate made her a focal point of opposing defenses throughout her career.

Johnson’s most dominant performances came during her junior and senior seasons, when she rewrote the Southridge record book for single-season goals and assists. As a junior in 2010, she recorded 31 goals and 18 assists, leading Southridge to a third-place finish at the WIAA 3A State Tournament. That season, her impact was recognized statewide, as she was named Tri-City Herald Player of the Year and earned the honor of Washington 3A State MVP.

She followed that performance with an equally impressive senior season in 2011, again scoring 31 goals, while adding 16 assists. Johnson was named the Columbia Basin Big Nine 3A League MVP and repeated as Tri-City Herald Player of the Year, underscoring her consistency and dominance at the highest levels of high school soccer. Earlier in her career, as a sophomore in 2009, she led the league with 24 goals, foreshadowing the success that would follow. During her tenure, Southridge captured three league championships (2008, 2010, 2011), with Johnson serving as a driving force behind each title run.

Johnson continued her soccer career at Gonzaga University, competing at the NCAA Division I level from 2012 to 2015. Over four seasons, she appeared in 73 career matches, contributing as a consistent offensive presence and respected leader within the Bulldogs’ program. Known for her attacking instincts, tireless effort, and soccer IQ, she made an immediate impact as a freshman and remained a key contributor throughout her collegiate career.

Her collegiate achievements include All-West Coast Conference Second Team honors in 2013, followed by a standout 2014 season, when she earned All-WCC First Team recognition, becoming the first Gonzaga player to receive that honor since 2008. That same year, she was also named Scholar All–West Region, reflecting excellence both on the field and in the classroom. Entering her final season, Johnson was recognized as a 2015 Preseason All-WCC selection, further affirming her standing as one of the conference’s top players. She also distinguished herself academically, earning WCC All-Academic Team honors three times (2013–2015).

From a record-setting goal scorer at Southridge High School to an All-Conference performer at Gonzaga University, Heather Johnson-Soprano’s career reflects sustained excellence, leadership, and competitive integrity. Her achievements, impact on team success, and lasting legacy make her a most deserving member of the Hall of Fame.

After graduating from Southridge High School in 1999, Jake Burns distinguished himself as a multi-sport athlete. In football, he earned All-Conference honors as both a linebacker and tight end. On the baseball field, he was a standout performer, earning First Team All-Conference honors as a senior and Second Team All-

Conference recognition as a junior. Over his high school career, he posted an impressive .440 batting average, scoring 36 runs and recording 8 home runs and 33 RBIs across 164 plate appearances.

Following high school, Burns continued his baseball career at Columbia Basin College, where he was a member of the 2001 CBC baseball team that captured the NWAC Championship. That season proved to be historic both for the program and for NWAC baseball as a whole. The Hawks claimed their fourth consecutive East Region

title and became the first East Region team since 1989 to win an NWAC Championship.

Over the course of 70 years of NWAC baseball, the 2001 CBC team accomplished feats that had never been done before—and, in many cases, have not been replicated since. The team set a school record with 39 wins, established an NWAC record for most wins by a championship team, and posted an NWAC record for team

ERA. While those records have since been surpassed, they were all later broken by CBC teams, underscoring the program’s sustained excellence.

Several remarkable records from that 2001 season still stand today. The Hawks remain the only team to win three consecutive batting titles, the second team ever to capture both the ERA title and batting title in the same season, and the holders of the NWAC record for shutouts in a single season with 19—nearly 45 percent

of games played. The team also set the record for consecutive wins to start a season at 21. Additionally, the 2001 CBC Baseball team became the first NWAC baseball program to receive national recognition, finishing the season ranked ninth in the country. In recognition of these achievements, the 2001 CBC Baseball team was

inducted into the NWAC Hall of Fame in 2018.

Following his time at CBC, Burns completed his baseball career at Central Washington University, where he earned a degree in Law and Justice. Professionally, he has spent nearly 20 years at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, supporting the National Security Directorate as the East Asia and Pacific Portfolio Lead. In this role,

he helps protect radiological materials used for legitimate medical and research purposes. Outside of work, the Burns family is five strong. His oldest child, Payton Burns, is a freshman attending Grand Canyon University, and Landon Burns is currently attending KaHS.

Ben Hampton’s athletic career is defined by excellence, versatility, and sustained competitive success at both the high school and collegiate levels. A standout jumper and committed team contributor, Hampton left a lasting mark on every program he represented.

At Southridge High School in Kennewick, Washington, Hampton emerged as one of the state’s premier track and field athletes. His senior year was highlighted by a Washington State 4A Triple Jump Championship, where he claimed the state title with a personal-best leap of 48 feet, 0 inches. This championship

performance capped a progression that began a year earlier, when he finished second at the state meet as a junior, signaling his rise among the state’s elite jumpers.

Hampton was not a single-event specialist. In addition to his dominance in the triple jump, he demonstrated strong multi-event ability, placing seventh in the high jump at the state meet with a clearance of 6 feet, 2 inches, and recording a personal best of 6 feet, 4 inches. His consistent performances earned him honorable

mention All–Big Nine Conference recognition and three varsity letters in track and field under longtime coach Ted Homme.

Beyond the track, Hampton was a true dual-sport athlete. He also competed in basketball at Southridge, lettering twice under coach Ried Prepperman, further reflecting his athletic range, competitiveness, and commitment to his school’s athletic programs.

Hampton continued his athletic career at Washington State University, where he competed in track and field with a specialization in the triple jump, contributing both indoors and outdoors. As a freshman during the 2002–03 season, he quickly established himself in the Cougar lineup, recording a season-best 47 feet, 4½

inches indoors and 47 feet, 9¼ inches outdoors, while gaining valuable championship experience at both the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation (MPSF) and Pac-10 Championships.

His sophomore season marked another step forward. Hampton achieved his collegiate personal best indoors, jumping 48 feet, 2¾ inches, a mark that rivaled his state-championship performance from high school. He remained a consistent competitor at the championship level, placing at both the MPSF and Pac-10

Championships, and posting a season-best 47 feet, 4½ inches outdoors. His athleticism extended beyond the jumps, as evidenced by recorded indoor performances in the 60-meter dash (7.65 seconds) and 200 meters (24.94 seconds).

Known not only for his performances but also for his presence within the program, Hampton was a valued member of the Washington State athletic community, contributing to team culture, meet lineups, and school spirit throughout his collegiate career.

Following his time at Washington State University, Hampton successfully transitioned the discipline, creativity, and passion developed through athletics into a professional career. Turning a lifelong interest in photography into a vocation, he founded and continues to operate Magical Touch Media, a Seattle-based wedding

photography and videography company. His post-athletic success reflects the same dedication and pursuit of excellence that defined his competitive career.

From a state champion at Southridge High School to a dedicated collegiate athlete at Washington State University, and ultimately to a successful entrepreneur, Ben Hampton’s journey exemplifies achievement, versatility, and lasting impact—qualities that make his career a deserving addition to the Hall of Fame.

Tyler Mattair

Class of 2004

Tyler Mattair’s athletic career at Southridge High School is defined by toughness, versatility, and sustained production at the highest levels of competition. A true multi-sport athlete and one of the most productive football players of his era in the Columbia Basin/Big Nine Conference, Mattair distinguished himself through consistent excellence, explosive performances, and leadership on both sides of the ball.

Mattair was a three-sport letterman at Southridge, competing in football, track, and wrestling, with football serving as his primary sport. Listed at 5-foot-8, 182 pounds, he played a demanding two-way role in football as both a running back and cornerback, combining physical running ability with defensive reliability. His willingness to compete year-round across multiple sports reflected both his athleticism and commitment to his program.

During his junior season in 2002, Mattair emerged as one of the premier offensive players in the Big Nine. Building on momentum from the prior year, he led the conference in rushing at 7.0 yards per carry, totaled 1,792 all-purpose yards, and earned all-league recognition as a kickoff returner. His impact was felt weekly, but several performances stood out on a statewide level. In consecutive games late in the season, Mattair rushed for 263 yards on 27 carries with two touchdowns and followed that effort with 224 yards on 28 carries and three touchdowns, firmly establishing himself as one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in Washington State.

His dominance during the 2002 season earned him recognition as the Big Nine Co-Offensive Player of the Year, an honor that reflected both his statistical production and his central role in Southridge’s success. That recognition carried into the following year, as preseason coverage highlighted Mattair as one of the league’s top returning players.

As a senior in 2003, Mattair confirmed his standing as the conference’s premier running back. He opened the season with a statement performance, rushing for 199 yards and two touchdowns in a decisive victory over Kennewick. By season’s end, he finished as the Big Nine rushing champion, drawing constant defensive attention and game-planning from opponents. His importance to Southridge’s offense was underscored during postseason play, where teams tailored their defensive schemes specifically to limit his production—clear evidence of the respect he commanded across the league.

Throughout his career, Mattair was recognized not only for his offensive production but also for his versatility and football intelligence as a two-way player, contributing in the secondary while carrying the offensive workload. His success across football, track, and wrestling further highlighted his competitive drive and athletic range. In addition, Tyler was an excellent student for the Suns, finishing high school with a 3.92 overall GPA. A truly disciplined Sun.

Tyler Mattair’s legacy at Southridge High School is one of durability, consistency, and competitive excellence. As a conference rushing champion, Big Nine Co-Offensive Player of the Year, and multi-sport letterman, he represents the standard of achievement and commitment honored by the Hall of Fame.

Class of 2007 Football, Basketball, Baseball

An outstanding three (3) sport athlete, Mattair earned two (2) letters in Football, four (4) in Basketball and three (3) in Baseball as a Southridge

Sun. Moose as he was often referred to as, due to his size at an early age, was a member of seven (7) different State qualifying teams,

(Football in 2004 & 2005, Basketball in 2006 & 2007 and Baseball in 2004, 2005 & 2006) including the 2004 State Championship Baseball.

Mattair was a multiple-time all-conference selection in all three sports including conference MVP and during his senior year garnered several

All-America acknowledgements in baseball.

Recruited by multiple Division 1 schools for both basketball and baseball, Mattair signed with the Oregon State Beavers for baseball,

before being drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2007 Major League Baseball Draft in the second round. Mattair spent the first 4

years of his career with the Phillies organization before signing with the Cincinnati Reds organization for his remaining three.

Mattair is the Owner / Broker of Innerscope Realty in Pensacola, Florida.

Congratulations Moose!

Molly was a three-sport athlete who competed in Volleyball, Basketball and Softball for the Suns. She was the star Pitcher and

Shortstop on the 2005 Softball team which was the first Southridge Girls team to qualify for state. This state run including throwing a

perfect game at Eastmont.

Molly was named 2005 Tri City Herald Softball MVP and was a multiple time ALL-BIG 9 Conference selection in all three Sports.

She was also named to the 2005 West Region National Fastpitch Coaches Association team.

Molly committed to Dartmouth College to continue her outstanding Softball career. Molly graduated from Dartmouth with a Bachelors

of Arts Degree in Government / Public Policy and received her Juris Doctorate, cum laude, from Ave Maria School of Law in Naples,

FL. Molly is currently an attorney and resides in Fort Myers, FL.

Nicole was a two-sport athlete achieving 4 Varsity letters each in Soccer and Track and Field. During Nicole’s four years, she was a

multiple-time state finalist in the individual 100- and 200-meters placing 2nd and 3rd and being a member of the 2000, State

Championship 4x100 and 4x200 relay teams. She continues to hold the Southridge High School all-time 100- & 200-meter records.

Nicole was a multiple All-Conference Big-9 All Area selection in both Soccer and Track.

Nicole furthered her athletic career at Washington State University, running Track and Field for the Cougars. Nicole returned to

Southridge in the Spring of 2006 as a track coach and has enjoyed coaching the Males and Females that have set and broken many of

her and other school records.

Currently she serves as Principal at Calvary Christian School in Kennewick. She continues to coach Track at Southridge each season.

Hatcher’s multi-athletic talent was shown as she competed on multiple years of American Ninja Warrior.

Kristin was a three-sport athlete earning 12 Varsity letters in Soccer (4), Basketball (4) and Track and Field (4). Singleton won the 2002

4A State Long Jump as a junior and as a Freshman, was a member of the 4X100 and 4X200 relay State Champions.

Singleton was awarded multiple All-Conference / All-Area awards during her time at Southridge. She continues to hold the Southridge

record for the Long Jump at 18’ 2 ¾”.

Recruited in multiple sports, Singleton chose the University of Nevada, Reno to continue her track and field career. As a member

of the Wolfpack, she continued to provide valuable points in the Long Jump, 100-meters and various relays. Graduating with a

Bachelor of Science Degree in Cell/Cellular and Molecular Biology in 2008.

Singleton works for Washington River Protection Solutions (WRPS) in Richland.

Eric is a four-time State Finalist in Wrestling, winning the State Championship at 101 pounds in 1997 and earning

Southridge's’ first Individual State title in just the school’s second year of existence. Eric won multiple District, Regional and

Northwest Invite titles during his time as a Sun. Over his four years, Eric achieved a remarkable career record of 138-15.

Schwartz was named All Area (Tri-City Herald) multiple years. On top of his remarkable achievements on the mat, Schwartz graduated

with a 3.98 GPA.

Eric continued his education and wrestling career at Stanford University, which unfortunately was cut short due to injury.

Eric received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Policy from Stanford University in 2004 and earned his Juris Doctorate,

cum laude, from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law in 2009. Eric is married and has two children.

Shawn O’Malley Class of 2006 was a football and baseball player who totaled 6 varsity letters in his 4 years at Southridge. Shawn

was member of the 2004 4A State Baseball Championship team and was a vital member of the 2005 Big 9 Champion Football

team receiving All-State honors in both throughout his high school career.

Shawn committed to Washington State University, prior to being selected in the 5th round (139th overall) of the 2006 Major League

Draft by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Shawn made is major league debut with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim on

September 7, 2014 securing 2 hits in the game.

Shawn is currently the hitting coach for the Tacoma Rainiers and resides in Kansas City, Mo. in the off-season.

Players

Chad Arnold | Joey Burns | Travis Coulter | Matt Crowe | Jake Davis | Matt Didesidero | Brian George | Shane Gillespie

Tyson Hicks | Dane Lacy | Lonnie Lechelt | Ryon Lechelt | Travis Mattair | Brad Miller | Cody Moore | Shawn O’Malley

Matthew Pearson | Jordan Reeder | Forrest Rice | Tim Young

Coaching Staff

Tim Sanders | Steve Davis | Ty Fischer | Jeff Jones | Paul Sanders | Ted Weber

In the team’s second state appearance, many would argue that the 2004 Baseball team was a surprise winner of the 4A Baseball Championship.

Finishing 4th in league after sweeping Walla Walla the final day, the Suns qualified for the district tournament. Facing a loser out game against Pasco to open district’s, Matt Crowe threw a complete game no-hitter defeating Pasco 7-0, advancing the Suns into the double-elimination portion of the tournament. Losing to Kennewick in the district semi-finals, the Suns defeated the Kamiakin Braves 12-7 in eight eventful innings in the morning’s loser out game for the right to face the Richland Bombers, in the loser out / winner to State game. The Suns received a complete game 3 hit shutout from Forrest Rice to defeat the Bombers 4-0 and advance to the state playoff bracket.

In the regional round of the State Tournament in Spokane, which was delayed 2 days by rain until Monday, the Suns faced GSL Champions North Central. Southridge defeated NC 4-3 advancing to the Regional Championship against rival Kennewick. The Suns upset Kennewick and the league MVP 4-3 to advance to Everett Memorial Stadium for the Final 4 games on Friday and Saturday of that

same week. Only issue once again…. MORE Rain.

After arriving in Everett, the State rained out the games due to unplayable field conditions and moved them to Yakima County Stadium for a one-day tournament on Sunday. Facing the Kangaroos of Lake Washington in the semifinals, the Suns survived yet another 1 run game 10-9 advancing to the State Championship against Kentwood. Southridge defeated the Conquerors 6-4, securing Southridge's first TEAM state title.

While the outcome of the 2004 season may have been a surprise to some, the 2004 Baseball team truly laid the foundation for the future success, the legacy and the tradition of Southridge Baseball.

Congratulations to the Players and Coaches of the 2004 State Champion Baseball team.