It’s Homecoming Week in Cashmere, and the whole town is buzzing with excitement for Saturday night’s dance. But before the celebration begins, the Cashmere Bulldogs have some unfinished business under the Friday night lights.
On October 10th, the 4-1 Bulldogs will host the 4-1 Zillah Leopards in a highly anticipated matchup that could have major implications for both teams.
Cashmere enters the game looking to rebound after a heartbreaking overtime loss to the top-ranked 1A team in Washington, the Royal Knights. Despite a strong performance, the Bulldogs came up short, falling 21-15 in a game that went down to the wire.
Junior TE/DE, David Odenrider, was asked how he can help his team bounce back from last week’s heartbreaker. He explained,
“We just gotta stay the course, take all the opportunities, and don’t take stuff for granted”.
With that loss behind them, Cashmere is turning its full attention to Zillah. A team that has quickly earned statewide respect. The Leopards are led by sophomore quarterback Beau Donahoe, who has shown poise and precision in his first season as the starter. On the ground, Zillah leans on sophomore standout Maverick Myers, the SCAC’s leading rusher, who’s averaging an impressive 7.4 yards per carry.
For the Bulldogs, the focus this week is on execution and health. Senior wide receiver and defensive back Tom McDevitt remains questionable with a groin injury, while junior defensive back Braylon Rubio is also uncertain to play due to a shoulder issue. Both players are key contributors on both sides of the ball, and their availability could play a major role in Friday’s outcome.
Sophomore Ethan Bessonette is one of the guys who would have to step up if the two defensive backs were out in the game. When he was asked how it would be different without McDevitt and Rubio, he shared his thoughts.
“A couple of new guys are going to have to step up, and we’ll have to have better communication. But I think we’ll be ready to go with whoever is out there.”
Zillah enters the matchup eager to make a statement and knock off one of the state’s perennial powerhouses. Cashmere, meanwhile, aims to bounce back, defend its home field, and remind everyone why it remains among Washington’s elite 1A programs.
Friday night’s clash promises to be a test of toughness, focus, and pride, the perfect lead into a homecoming weekend the Cashmere community won’t soon forget.
