Eight-man is back with a lot to smile about!

WAITSBURG-Eight-man football is back at Waitsburg High, and there was nothing but smiles from the fans at the field that is, once again, "The Home of the Cardinals." The eight-man game is fast-paced and tends to be more spread out, with more room for players to get in the open for big playmaking. In addition, on-side kicks are more prevalent; misdirection plays keep you guessing, and pitches and quarterback sneaks make it a fun game to watch.

At the Cardinal's first home game, long-time residents recalled days past of community-based football. "During the eleven-man days, we would play teams from Granger and Cle Elum," remarked one fan. "We did not know who they were and had little in common with them. Now that we are playing our neighbors again, we often know the players on the other team, know their families, and share common interests."

Another fan stated, "This will make it easier for us to see more games, both at home and away, as we can now easily travel to games in the area."

It is felt by many in the community that the change to eight-man will inspire a greater sense of pride and ownership in the community.

Officially titled the 1B-Southeast League, perhaps a more appropriate title might be the Wheaties League to represent the local area. The next game at home on the Cardinal Green is on September 15th.