Quilcene senior fullback Kevin Alejo has been a huge part of the Rangers’ success, not only this year, but over the past five years with the team.

Nearing the end of his high school career, Alejo’s performance Saturday in Quilcene’s 51-28 win over Winlock in the state 1B quarterfinals was typical in showing how important he is to the Rangers.

He didn’t have the biggest statistics in the game, those belonged to teammate Bishop Budnek, who had 337 yards rushing and five touchdowns. But Alejo was a big part of Budnek’s success, leading the way with his blocking from the fullback position. His blocks were so loud coaches could hear them on the sideline.

Alejo also contributed 70 yards on the ground himself on nine carries. On defense, he had nine tackles and an interception with a long return to set up a Quilcene touchdown.

Alejo and his Rangers teammates travel to Moses Lake on Saturday to take on powerhouse Odessa in the state 1B semifinals