Submitted by Orcas Boosters

In the world of San Juan County High School Athletics there are few games that mean more than the Island Cup. Historically, the rivalry between the Vikings and the Wolverines has signaled the beginning of the interscholastic sports season and been a chance for both islands to come together in a competition for island bragging rights. But this year the Island Cup means more than it has in any previous year because for the first time ever, the battle will have a distinctive Lopez presence!

When the coaches of the football teams for both Orcas and Lopez counted heads this summer they came to a very troubling conclusion – “We don’t have enough guys!” While Orcas could field the minimum number of players for a team, they lacked the ability to continue should injury strike throughout the season. Meanwhile, the Lopez squad was looking at having to shut their program down because they simply didn’t have enough players to put on the field. So the question was asked: “What if we combined our squads to play under a single flag?”

Through a great cooperative effort between administrations and volunteer staff the combined Viking/Lobo team assembled last week and officially began practices. Lopez players have been making the long trek each day to Orcas to complete practice requirements, but the hard work and extra logistics are paying off.

“The guys are really working well together. With the combination of the two squads we expect to have a lot of fun on the field and see some great football this year,” says Head Coach Justin Frausto.

The Island cup is taking place today. Check back in for results of the paper.

Also check out the sports preview in next week’s paper.