With winter approaching, many athletes are preparing to get cleared and to participate in the new sports season. The cold weather will bring boys, girls and interschool basketball, swimming, wrestling, equestrian, and ski and snowboarding. Students will need to have a current physical turned in before clearances; physicals are good for two years after the date of the exam.

Girls basketball hope to clinch a playoff spot again this year, following last season’s impressive performance: 15-11 overall and 8-6 in league. Last year the team made it to the first round of the playoffs, falling to a strong Marist squad that finished fourth in state. The team lost multiple seniors after the 2016-2017 season, and the girls are hoping to come back with the same fighting spirit as last year. Open gyms will be available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and some Saturdays until November 9th. Contact Coach Justin Duke if you are interested in being a part of the girls basketball team.

Wilsonville boys basketball is hungry for another state championship this year, after winning the prestigious title in both the 2016 and 2017 seasons, and just falling short in the 2015 season. The boys basketball team practices multiple times a week, including Saturday practices, and the work they have put in shows during their games. The team lost some key players last year, with Zach Reichle going on to play at Oregon State University and Harrison Steiger at OIT. The team hopes to keep the winning streak going into the new season, and is ready to get back into the game. Make sure you get in contact with Coach Chris Roche if you’re interested in trying out for the team.

Wilsonville also boasts a strong skiing and snowboarding team during the cold weather. The team heads up to the mountain and has a lot of fun in the snow competing and practicing. Ski and snowboard is a great option if you love hanging out with friends, being up on the mountain, and staying in shape. Contact Emily Carrillo on Instagram if you are interested in joining the team.

The wrestling team can’t wait  to get back to the mat this winter, and seasoned Head Coach Jason Milham coaches the squad again this year. The team has done well under his guidance, with many strong wrestlers coming out of the program. Perry Rodenbeck, a senior this year, clinched a district title last year as a junior, and is expected to do great this year as well. Chat with Mr. Milham in room 116 if you’re interested.

Boys and girl swimming dives into the season with a new coach this year.  Mrs. Bonnie Robbins, an English 9 teacher here at Wilsonville, steps up into the head coach position while Deb Mandeville, the swim coach in past years, is abroad. “We are going to be more focused on technique, and we’re adding film into the program. We are going to be giving the seniors more leadership roles, and we are hoping to get the Wilsonville community more involved in the program by attending our two home meets this season.” Robbins says. The swim team provides great opportunities to keep in shape, have fun with friends, and make new memories. Reach out to Mrs. Robbins for additional information on swim team.

WVHS rounds out their winter season with equestrian. Last year, the team sent four kids to the OHSET state championships in 2017, and  3 of those students qualified for state. Equestrian is a great opportunity to put in hard work and have a great time doing it. Contact Lori Jersey if you are interested in joining our wonderful equestrian team.

Wilsonville has always been known for its amazing sports, but this winter, the teams have an opportunity to prove to the state what we already know; we are the best. Make sure to get out and get involved with school sports–these opportunities for personal growth, not only physically, but in all aspects of your life, will change you for the better.