CHRONICLE STAFF REPORT
COTTAGE GROVE – Nate Farrell, a former multisport athlete for the Lions and a member of the 2017 state title football team, has been named head coach of the football program, said Garrett Bridgens, the school’s athletic director.
Bridgens said the hiring process was overseen by a “diverse committee of current CGHS head coaches, parents, teachers, school administrators, and football student-athletes, ensuring broad representation and a comprehensive, thoughtful selection process.”
Farrell said his vision emphasizes culture, accountability, player development, and alignment from youth through varsity, emphasizing a commitment to serving student-athletes on and off the field.
“I am incredibly excited and grateful for the opportunity to lead the Cottage Grove football program. As a former player and lifelong Lion, this community and its traditions mean everything to me. We will compete with integrity, commit to relentless effort, and uphold a shared standard of excellence on and off the field. Go Lions!,” he said.
Farrell brings deep roots to the program.
Farrell is in his second year as a manufacturing teacher at Cottage Grove High School. Bridgens said he brings firsthand experience and a clear vision for the future of Lion football. A 2018 graduate of CGHS, Farrell competed in football, wrestling, and golf, exemplifying the multi-sport athlete tradition that has long defined Cottage Grove athletics.
As a member of the CGHS football program, Farrell was part of the 2016 state runner-up team and helped lead the Lions to the 2017 state championship, competing as an offensive lineman. In wrestling, he was a state qualifier, further highlighting his commitment to discipline, toughness, and competitive excellence.
Currently, Farrell serves as the Head Boys Golf Coach and an assistant coach in the CGHS wrestling program. He has also served as an assistant coach in the CGHS football program, giving him a strong understanding of the Lions football and its culture.
In addition, he remains actively involved across multiple athletic programs on campus. His daily presence in the building as a teacher, coach, and mentor provides a unique level of continuity, connection, and leadership for student-athletes.
Bridgens said Farrell differentiated himself during interviews.
“From the very beginning of the process, Nate stood out for his preparation, clarity of vision, and genuine passion for Cottage Grove,” Bridgens said. “There was a shared sense of excitement and confidence in his plan for the program.”
Farrell replaces Steve Turner, who was the Lions coach for three years. In Turner’s first year, the Lions went 1-8 and finished ranked No. 28 in Class 4A. In his second year, the Lions moved to the 3A level went 9-0 in the regular season with an average margin of victory of 27.8 points. They lost to Burns in the playoffs.
Last season, the Lions moved back to 4A and went 1-8. After defeating North Marion 34-14 in the season opener, the Lions lost eight straight. Turner spent 24 seasons coaching Oregon high school football, including state champs with Mountain View in 2011 and Cascade in ’15.
