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Three South players elect to play for W. Oregon Parnell Monday Jan 29, 2018 at 2:00 AM Jan 29, 2018 at 9:19 PM Staff reports Western Oregon University’s football program has snatched up three players who were major contributors as South Medford advanced to the Class 6A state championship game this past fall. Running back/linebacker Jaylin Parnell, receiver/cornerback Josiah Johnson and receiver/cornerback/kicker Jaalen Owens all announced on Twitter in recent days their intention to continue their education and athletic pursuits at the NCAA Division II school in Monmouth. A fourth Southern Oregon player, linebacker Richie England of Grants Pass, has also committed to the Wolves. Jason Slowey, a former North Medford and Western Oregon standout player, is linebackers coach and director of football operations for the Wolves. Parnell was chosen Class 6A defensive player of the year and was also a first-team all-state running back. The two-time Southwest Conference offensive and defensive player of the year helped the Panthers to their best season in the school’s 32-year history. South Medford won its second straight conference crown, was runner-up in the state and compiled a 12-2 record. Parnell, a 6-foot, 200-pounder, set school records for rushing yards (1,442) and rushing touchdowns (24). On defense, he had 63 tackles, including 25 solos. He had seven tackles for losses, three sacks, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries. He returned two interceptions for touchdowns. Johnson (5-9, 155) was first-team all-state at defensive back. He led South Medford with six interceptions and tied the school record with three in a game, against West Salem. Owens (6-1, 165) was second-team all-state on both sides of the ball. He had 36 catches for 669 yards and 10 scores to go with five interceptions. He also converted two field goals and 78 extra points. England (6-1, 232) was a first-team all-conference linebacker for the Cavemen. Western Oregon competes in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference. It went 3-8 last season, including 2-6 in conference. The head coach is Arne Ferguson.