PHS lands Giving Circle Grant

---

ASHLAND – The Phoenix High School football program has been awarded a $2,500 Dave Kitchell Giving Circle Grant from the Dave Kitchell Endowment of the Ashland Community Health Foundation. The award honors the legacy of former Ashland High School assistant football coach Dave Kitchell, whose dedication to teamwork and community continues to inspire athletes across Southern Oregon.

Under the leadership of head coach Charlie Hall, who took over the program in 2022, the Pirates have achieved a remarkable turnaround. This season, Phoenix advanced to the state playoffs, marking the team’s first postseason appearance since 2017. Coach Hall was also recognized as the District 5 Coach of the Year for his leadership and the program’s progress.

The grant funds will support several key initiatives for the team, including:

• Spirit packs so players can wear matching workout attire and represent Phoenix High School with pride.
• Pregame and postgame meals for athletes during long road trips, helping to ease the financial burden on families.
• Equipment upgrades to continue improving the program’s infrastructure and player experience.

The Phoenix High School community extends its heartfelt gratitude to Brian Kitchell and the Ashland Community Health Foundation for this generous contribution. The Pirates are proud to honor Coach Kitchell’s legacy of compassion and camaraderie – his mantra, “We love and care for each other,” remains alive and well.

Congratulations to coach Hall, the entire Pirates football team, and everyone who supports our student-athletes on and off the field!