Kodiaks Preseason Sports Overview

The soccer team runs to the huddle to begin their home game against Liberty Bell. The coaches and captains give a pre-game talk to help motivate the team. Photo Credit: Arlo Gibbs (12)

The beginning of fall sports has brought excitement throughout the Cascade High School hallways. Students are eager to play under the lights, run until exhaustion, or hold posters in the stands while cheering their teams on. Kodiak athletes from each sport have displayed discipline during preseason preparations, including weight training, conditioning, and skill development. 

The football team began preseason practices in mid-June with a football camp at Linfield University in McMinnville, Oregon. Following the camp, the team began speed and conditioning training at the Peshastin-Dryden Track, along with weight training organized by head coach Carl Haberberger. “We look pretty good this year,” mentioned Connor Schoenwald (12). “Our defensive and offensive lines are controlling the line of scrimmage.” 

Although the team is young, it is also experienced. Multiple players noted that this season differs from last year due to an enhanced focus on conditioning and effort during both team and individual practices. Discipline and commitment are evident among the athletes, pushing them to improve from past seasons. 

In July 2025, the captains and seniors of the girls’ soccer team began hosting weekly practices on Wednesdays. These sessions included drills on footwork, player-to-player contact, and shooting. Additionally, team members were encouraged to attend community soccer games on Sundays. Around 20 participants, including high school, middle school, and community players, joined the sessions. 

Practice was not the only way the soccer team spent time together. The athletes also participated in bonding activities to strengthen relationships between new and returning players. “We had various team bonding activities like floating the river and sleepovers on the field,” recalled Amaya Blue (11). 

“The bond is tighter than last year between players… the team meshes very well,” observed teammate Zoie Burpee (11). “I feel like the summer practices have built strong bonds on the field and at school.” 

“The bond is tighter than last year between players… the team meshes very well,” observed teammate Zoie Burpee (11). “I feel like the summer practices have built strong bonds on the field and at school.” 

The volleyball team also focused on physical conditioning and team connection throughout the summer. Their schedule was integrated with the football team’s, and players were encouraged to attend both weight sessions and team practices in the gym twice a week. The team participated in volleyball camps across Washington State to strengthen teamwork and integrate new players before the season began. “We’ve gained more trust and overall gained more love for the sport,” said Madelyn Carol (9). “We are working more as a team and more hyped to play.” 

Cross country training began in August, with athletes running morning sessions around Blackbird Island and Ski Hill. Even after school started, runners could be seen throughout Leavenworth. Training volume depended on each athlete’s personal commitment. 

“On long run days, we run around 10 miles, and for interval days we run 5 or 6 miles,” added Cooper Krejci (10). “We do a lot of core workouts in the wrestling room too, such as planks.” 

“I’m excited for being supportive and encouraging with the team,” shared Gretta Broom (9). 

The cross country team has been consistent in their training, running whenever possible to stay in shape for the race season.