The Wilsonville Wildcats take on the Canby Cougars in the 2024 fall homecoming football game at Randall stadium. The Casts host the Cougars in a thrilling Thursday night league game.
Canby’s record in the 2024 campaign lines up at 2 wins and 3 losses. Wilsonville currently rests with a steady 4 wins and only a single loss. The Cats bolster confidence after coming off of a landslide win against Central last Friday, with a 41-10 lead.
Homecoming games are always exciting for the players and students. From floats and parades to live anthems from the choir, the night is sure to stress lots of excitement in recognition of alumni and current students.
Regarding the Homecoming game, junior Chandler Brock states, “It affects us very positively by getting everyone psyched, and it’s always fun to play with a large crowd and the pink jerseys.” Sophomore Ben Wiepert adds,
“The homecoming hype has created a really strong environment around the team. Knowing the entire school and community are behind us. The crowd and the school spirit give us an extra boost, encouraging us to play with more intensity and focus.”
The Cats look to repeat as 5A state champions, having won for the first time since 2004 last season. Quarterback Mark Wiepert talks about the mindset of the team wanting to compete, echoing,
“It all starts with the Monday practice after school. Everyone showing up ready to learn from last week’s mistakes but also willing to put it behind them so we can always focus on the next opponent which we are focusing on Canby. But it’s about resetting our minds, improving where we need to improve, and giving our all.”
Wilsonville has had a shorter week of practice since the game ended up on a Thursday night, rather than Friday. Brock says,
“Even though it was a short week of practice, we started and ended the week fast, being super focused for Thursday. Luckily, some of our guys are getting to 100 percent. I would not want to be Canby.” The Wildcats played with a humble composure against Central, continue to prove how dangerous they can be, especially coming to the O-line and the secondary.
Over the past few seasons, Wilsonville Football has maintianed very strong legacy in 5A play, dominating their opponents. Wiepert states,
“To keep the streak, alive we have to stay focused on the game plan, and treat opponents with respect while being consistent and staying locked in and preparing for Friday nights.” Brock adds,
“We gotta stay strong and keep doing the things we need to do on the offensive and defensive side of the ball.”
The Wildcats look forward to the rest of the season. The team is ready to compete against Canby and all of their opponents throughout the regular season and playoffs, and being focused and playing as a team.