Husky Stadium to Host WIAA Football Championships Again: A Return to Glory for Washington Prep Football
The roar of the crowd, the bright lights, and the ultimate prize: Washington state high school football championship games are officially returning to Husky Stadium for the 2026 season. This thrilling announcement, confirmed by a recent Seattle Times report detailing a verbal agreement between the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) and the University of Washington, sets the stage for another unforgettable weekend of prep gridiron action on December 4th and 5th.
For four consecutive seasons now, the iconic home of the Washington Huskies has been the battleground where state champions are crowned across all classifications, from 1A to 4A, including 1B and 2B. The WIAA's decision to bring the championships back ensures that the state's most talented young athletes will once again have the opportunity to compete on one of the grandest stages in the Pacific Northwest, a dream for any high school football player.
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This article was created with AI assistance. Stats and results sourced from public records.
Last Season's Epic Showdown: McGee's Record-Breaking Performance
The memory of last year's 4A state championship game still burns brightly, a testament to the incredible talent within Washington's high school ranks. Lake Stevens and Sumner, two powerhouses ranked in the top three of Rivals Washington's 2025 High School Football Composite Rankings, clashed in an overtime thriller that had fans on the edge of their seats. The game was a showcase for Sumner senior running back Lance McGee, whose performance transcended mere excellence and entered the realm of legend.
McGee, a dynamic three-star prospect who ultimately committed to Washington State over offers from Portland State, Oregon State, and Boise State, delivered an unforgettable senior outing. He not only led Sumner to the championship but also shattered state records, rushing for an astounding six touchdowns and 356 yards, including the game-winning score in overtime. His incredible season, which saw him amass 251 carries for 2,489 yards and 42 touchdowns, earned him the prestigious MaxPreps Washington Player of the Year award. McGee, ranked as the seventh-best player in the state according to Rivals Industry Rankings, embodied the spirit and dedication of Washington prep football.
Looking Ahead: Sumner's Next Chapter and State-Wide Aspirations
While Lance McGee's electrifying presence will be missed, Sumner is far from short on talent. The Spartans will look to make another deep run to Husky Stadium, anchored by the crowning jewel of the class of 2027: four-star wide receiver Braylon Pope. Pope, who holds the top spot as the best player in the state according to Rivals Industry Rankings, promises to be a formidable force. Rivals scout Charles Power described Pope as a "smooth, coordinated pass-catcher with one of the more complete skill sets among outside wide receiver prospects in the 2027 cycle," noting his projectable size at over 6-foot-2 and 190 pounds and his fluid, natural athleticism.
Beyond Sumner, teams across every classification are already eyeing the prize. From the fierce rivalries in 1A to the strategic battles in 2B, every program is gearing up for the regular season kickoff on Friday, September 4th, with the ultimate goal of playing under the lights at Husky Stadium in early December. The return to this hallowed ground reinforces the WIAA's commitment to providing an unparalleled experience for Washington's dedicated student-athletes.
The anticipation for the 2026 Washington high school football season, culminating in the state championships at Husky Stadium, is already palpable, promising more thrilling moments and unforgettable performances from our state's incredible young talent.