Warriors look to build leadership, consistency this fall

MATTAWA — When the Wahluke Warriors (2-8) take the field this season, they plan to focus on finishing games, sustaining effort and building leadership, Head Coach Anfernee Cortez said. “Last season we got into some close game ones that we easily could have turned around and won but just wasn't in our cards,” Cortez said. “I think that mindset of playing to the end, having that fight, believing that we could win mentality. They want to carry that into this season, and then just continue to build on guys being team leaders rather than you know sitting back. That will help in tough games like we had last season.” As they head into the 2026 season, the Warriors have some important roles to fill – including quarterback after last seasons QB1 Keaton Zirker graduated. While Cortez has not named his new guy yet, he knows what he’s looking for.