Kelso Duo Reunite on College Football Team

Longtime friends Anders Dahl and Hunter Barajas to play together at University of Redlands

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:37am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football game from multiple angles, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange, conceptually representing the lifelong bond between two high school teammates.A cubist interpretation of the enduring friendship and shared football passion that has driven two local high school stars to reunite on the college gridiron.Kelso Today

Two high school football players from Kelso, Washington, Anders Dahl and Hunter Barajas, will reunite on the field this fall as they join the University of Redlands football team. The longtime friends and former Kelso High School teammates are excited to continue playing together at the college level.

Why it matters

The story highlights the enduring friendship and shared passion for football that has driven these two young athletes to pursue the sport together, even after high school. It's an inspiring tale of camaraderie and determination that resonates with many local sports fans.

The details

Dahl, the quarterback, and Barajas, the center, have been friends since middle school and played together all four years at Kelso High. Despite receiving offers from other colleges, the duo decided to continue their football careers at the University of Redlands, located in Southern California, where they hope to lead the team to success.

  • Dahl and Barajas have been friends since middle school.
  • They played four years of high school football together at Kelso High School.
  • They will join the University of Redlands football team this fall (2026 season).

The players

Anders Dahl

The quarterback from Kelso High School who will be joining the University of Redlands football team.

Hunter Barajas

The center from Kelso High School who will be reuniting with his longtime friend Anders Dahl on the University of Redlands football team.

University of Redlands

The college in Southern California where Anders Dahl and Hunter Barajas will be playing football together.

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What they’re saying

“We've been playing together since we were kids, so it just feels right to keep that going in college.”

— Anders Dahl, Quarterback

“I can't wait to hit the field with Anders again. We have that unspoken chemistry that you just can't teach.”

— Hunter Barajas, Center

What’s next

The duo will begin training with the University of Redlands football team this summer in preparation for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

This story of longtime friends and high school teammates reuniting to play college football together is a heartwarming example of the power of friendship and shared passions to drive young athletes to pursue their dreams.