Fall sports are underway and Vashon High School (VHS) and McMurray Middle School (McM) teams have started to dip their toes into the competition last week, said Vashon Island School District Athletic Director Anders Blomgren.

There are plenty of chances for islanders to see the Mustangs and Pirates in action in the coming weeks as students test their skills, practice their resolve, and revel in the joy of sports.

Here’s a roundup of everything that’s happening now and next week.

McM Girls Volleyball has almost 50 participants. Led by coaches Paul Wahlen and Carrie Hatfield Brenno, their first home game is at 3:45 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27.

McM Cross Country has a robust squad of runners, led by coach Kevin Ross and assistant coach Joe Yarkin. Their first home event is on Oct. 8.

New VHS Cross Country coach James Batey is thrilled, but not surprised, with the 30-plus runners on the squad. He hopes to continue the strong VHS running tradition with district and state-level goals for the team this season.

The VHS Volleyball’s rigorous off-season training regime from coach Allison Trundle Strachan has the squad ready to go. Come check out home games on September 20 and 25. JV action starts at 5 p.m., followed by the varsity game.

The VHS football team, led by coach Brian Banducci, has plenty of youthful energy and is highly motivated and working hard together. The first home football game of the season is at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27.

VHS Girls Soccer, coached by April Bottman Haase, jumped into league competition this week and will look to make a mark early. They have a four-game homestand coming in the beginning of October, so there is plenty of time to check out the action.

VHS Boys Tennis returns several top competitors from last season. Coach Todd Zimberg has the team finely tuned and ready for home matches at 3:30 p.m. on both Friday, Sept. 13, and Tuesday, Sept. 24.

Throughout it all, the VHS cheer squad, led by Sarah Bjarnason, is gearing up to bring spirit to football and basketball games, and pep for the whole school’s spirit.

Financial Assistance

Financial help is available for all students in need of financial assistance to participate in sports. The Equitable Futures Vashon Group wants to help gear up students and get them on the field and court.

Parents can coordinate with their student’s counselor or coach about their needs and then reach out to one of the following staff members: McM Office Manager Terri Vickers (tvickers@vashonsd.org); VHS Office Manager Jackie Merrill (jmerrill@vashonsd.org); or Family Engagement Coordinator Nidia Sahagun (nsahagun@vashonsd.org).

For more information on district athletics and team schedules and stats, visit govashonpirates.com.