5 things to know for Fall 2026 (non-football)

    The 2026-2027 School year is fast approaching and high school athletic fields and gyms have been a buzz going into the fall season.  Soccer, Field Hockey and Volleyball teams begin their seasons this week with many hoping to continue success from 2025 and others going through changes in both rosters and staff.  Here are 5 things you need to know going into the fall 2026 seasons.

1---Winooski's soccer run

    After winning their 3rd straight D4 state championship in 2024, Winooski made the decision to jump back up to D3 for 2025.  It worked out in the end as the Spartans defeated Peoples Academy in PKs to win the title.  A 5th straight banner in on their minds going into 2026 but having to face D1 and D2 powers like Rice, SB and Mount Abe will test them.

    As for the girls, after an amazing run to the title game, the Lady Spartans came up inches short of joining the boys in state champions in D4.  Now, Winooski is on the process of trying to finish their story and capture the program's first state title.

2---CVU Girls' soccer run

    Champlain Valley Union's girls' soccer team have brought home 3 of the last 4 titles in Division 1, including the last 2 in pretty convincing fashion.  Can they continue their dynasty in 2026?

3---Essex girls' volleyball closing in on century

    Looking at the schedule for the fall sports season, October 16-17 will count as the last day of the Vermont high school fall sport season before the playoffs.  The 16th could also be a historic day at Jean Robinson Court as the Essex girls' volleyball team has a chance to get to 100 straight victories, continuing one of the country's longest winning streaks.

    Then again, when you've won so many times, the target is on you.  Could their streak end before 100?

 

4---New place for XC updates

    While most of the focus will be on the main sports (🏈⚽🏐) there are those niche sports that don't get much attention.  Just like with me and Bowling in the winter, there is someone who has taken their time year after year to show their love for Cross Country.

    Now, there's a site you can go to for all information from this year and years' past.  vthsxc.com is your location for HS XC action in the state.  Right now, you can learn about who's coming back for 2026 and preview every meet taking place.

5---Athletic Department changes

    Several schools are undergoing major changes to their athletic departments.  In the north, Essex and Mount Abraham have new ADs (Devin Wendel goes from the Eagles to the Hornets) along with Rutland (Bo McDougall) and Burr and Burton (Geri Witalec-Krupa) in southern VT.  There are also some familiar faces staying where they are like at Missisquoi, South Burlington and Winooski.

    These people will have a handful to deal with throughout the year.  Let's make it easier and give them all the support they need in 2026-2027.